The Georgetowner: March 11, 2020 Issue

SINCE 1954

GEORGETOWNER.COM

VOLUME 66 NUMBER 11

MARCH 11 - 24, 2020

W I S E ME D ICI N E CELEBRATING WOMEN’S

HISTORY MONTH

C O RO N AV I R U S H I T S H OM E ELENI TOUSIMIS,

JAC K E VA N S AT WA R D 2 D E BAT E M.D.

R E A L E S TAT E SA L E S ‘ I N H E R I T T H E W I N D BAG ’ M A R T Y T O LC H I N ’S B O O K

IN THIS ISSUE IN THIS ISSUE

ABOUT THE COVER

Photo of Eleni Tousimis, M.D., at her Georgetown home by Gregory “Fritz” Blakey of Fritzphotographics.com.

UP & COMING · 4 Events Calendar

NEWS · 5 - 6 Town Topics

EDITORIAL/OPINION · 8 Editorial CAG Update Letter to the Editor

CAMPAIGN 2020 · 9 Ward 2 Debate

DOWNTOWNER · 9 Downtown News

PARK SERVICE APPROVES C&O CANAL PLAN

PUBLISHER Sonya Bernhardt

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robert Devaney

FEATURES EDITORS COPY EDITOR Ari Post Richard Selden Gary Tischler SENIOR FASHION & BEAUTY CORRESPONDENT DIRECTOR Peggy Sands Lauretta McCoy CONTRIBUTORS GRAPHIC DESIGN Mary Bird Troy Riemer Susan Bodiker Allyson Burkhardt PHOTOGRAPHERS Evan Caplan Philip Bermingham Didi Cutler Jeff Malet Donna Evers Michelle Galler ADVERTISING & Stephanie Green MARKETING Amos Gelb Kate Sprague Wally Greeves Richard Selden Kitty Kelley Kelly Sullivan Rebekah Kelley Jody Kurash INTERN Shelia Moses Lily Martin Kate Oczypok Linda Roth Alison Schafer Mary Ann Treger

BY R IC H AR D SEL D EN

COVER · 10 - 11 A Chat with Dr. Tousimis

A wicket on the restored Lock 3 of the C&O Canal was ceremonially opened last fall. Photo

by Richard Selden.

REAL ESTATE · 12 - 13 February 2020 Real Estate Sales House of the Week

J’NAI BRIDGES: NEW STAR OF ‘SAMSON AND DELILAH’

BY GARY TISC H L ER

BUSINESS · 14

The Art of the Pour

J’Nai Bridges. Photo by Cade Martin. Courtesy Washington National Opera.

ARTS · 15

Alexandra Petri’s ‘Inherit the Windbag’

FOOD & WINE · 16

‘A VERY STABLE GENIUS’ AUTHORS TELL ALL

Latest Dish Dining Guide

BY PEGGY SAN D S

CLASSIFIEDS · 17

Authors Carol Leonnig and Philip Rucker with Q&A Cafe interviewer Carol Joynt at the George Town Club on Feb. 25. Photo by Peggy Sands.

Service Directory

1050 30th Street, NW Washington, DC 20007 Phone: (202) 338-4833 Fax: (202) 338-4834 www.georgetowner.com The Georgetowner is published every other Wednesday. The opinions of our writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect the editorial and corporate opinions of The Georgetowner newspaper. The Georgetowner accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. The Georgetowner reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material and is not responsible for errors or omissions. Copyright 2020.

Please send submissions of opinions for consideration to: editorial@georgetowner.com For advertising inquiries email advertising@georgetowner.com or call (202) 338-4833

“The Newspaper Whose Influence Far Exceeds Its Size” — Pierre Cardin

BOOK CLUB · 18

Kitty Kelley Book Club

GOOD WORKS & GOOD TIMES · 19 Social Scene Gala Guide

Photo of the Week

To submit your photos tag #thegeorgetowner on Instagram!

Super Moon behind Old Post Office Tower on March 9. Photo by Jeff Malet.

The Georgetowner is a Certified Business Enterprise

Please recycle.

Your number-one source for everything Georgetown subscribe to our newsletter georgetowner.com

2 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

DWELL I N

T H E

UNCOMMON Where memories aren’t just made, they’re inspired.

Discover your next home at longandfoster.com/luxury

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

3

UP & COMING

MARCH 14

DAR WOMEN’S HISTORY CELEBRATION The DAR Museum will recognize powerful American women who left their mark on history at a free celebration of Women’s History Month with activities, crafts, games and music. The event will also offer badgeearning opportunities for Brownies and Girl Scouts ($10 per scout). For details, visit eventbrite.com. 1776 D St. NW.

HOPFEST AT DC BRAU More than 30 breweries will take part in the sixth annual HopFest at DC Brau, supporting the District of Columbia Brewers’ Guild. Admission to this 21+ event includes a tasting glass, unlimited pours of hop-forward craft offerings, games and music. Food trucks will be on-site. Tickets are $50 ($75 VIP, with noon admission and a gift). For details, visit eventbrite.com.

3178 Bladensburg Road NE.

DUMBARTON CONCERTS: THALEA STRING QUARTET Pianist Michelle Cann will play works by

Florence Price with the Thalea String Quartet at Dumbarton United Methodist Church as part of the Dumbarton Concerts season. Also on the program is Schubert’s “Death and the Maiden” quartet. Tickets are $43, $40 for seniors. For details, visit dumbartonconcerts. org. 3133 Dumbarton St. NW.

FASHION SHOW AT DUKE ELLINGTON Upscale women’s fitness apparel line Fashion Mermaid will bring creative minds together for an electrifying glimpse into the future of fashion at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Along with the showcase, the Fashion Forward 2020 Fashion Show will include hors d’oeuvres, champagne, live music and a vendor expo. Tickets are $50, $32 for age 12 and under. For details, visit eventbrite.com. 3500 R St. NW.

MARCH 15

ST. PATRICK’S PARADE The St. Patrick’s Parade Committee of Washington, D.C., is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the parade. The 2020 parade will step off at noon and proceed along

Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th Street NW. Author Alice McDermott is this year’s grand marshal. For details, visit dcstpatsparade.com.

MARCH 20

THE 5TH DIMENSION AT WOLF TRAP The Barns at Wolf Trap will present original member of the 5th Dimension Florence LaRue and company to perform the legendary ensemble’s hits from the 1960s and ’70s, including “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” “Up, Up and Away” and “Wedding Bell Blues.” Tickets start at $67.

For details, visit wolftrap.org. 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, Virginia.

PINK TIE PARTY The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s annual Pink Tie Party stylishly marks the end of winter and the official beginning of blossom season. The event includes delicious bites and cocktails from local restaurants, an open bar, live entertainment and a silent auction with celebrity memorabilia. Tickets are $225. For details, visit nationalcherryblossomfestival. org. Ronald Reagan Building, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.

MARCH 20 TO 22 LANTERN BOOKSHOP SPRING SALE

At the Lantern Bookshop’s Spring Half-Priced Sale, everything for sale will be offered at, you guessed it, half-price, including books, recordings, art and Bryn Mawr College merchandise. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For details, visit lanternbookshop.org. 3241 P St. NW.

MARCH 22

CATHEDRAL CHORAL: ‘MARCH OF THE WOMEN’ Marking the 19th Amendment’s 100th anniversary, this Cathedral Choral Society concert, named for British suffragette Ethel Smyth’s rousing “March of the Women,” will also feature Ruth Crawford Seeger’s ethereal “Three Chants” and commissioned works by Lisa Bielawa, Jessie Montgomery and Augusta Read Thomas. Tickets are $25 to $83. For details, visit cathedralchoralsociety. org. Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW.

highlighted properties by c e c e l i a l e a k e

RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER ac t i v e

c lo s e d

| 3297 Massachusetts Ave NW

| 1557 33rd St, NW

c lo s e d

Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 1232 31st Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 |202.448.9002

GMG, INC.

Meeting & Event Space

| 3334 Reservoir Rd, NW

Cecelia Leake Realtor® 202.256.7804 cecelia@cecelialeake.com

4 MARCH 11, 2020

District Offices offers a variety of options to fit your work style.

Private Offices & Dedicated Desks

Contact us today to learn more.

202-223-5200 | districtoffices.net Join our Community!

Capitol Hill | Farragut | Georgetown | Pennsylvania Ave

TOWN TOPICS

NEWS

Georgetown Rector Contracts Coronavirus: D.C.’s First Case THE REV. TIM COLE OF CHRIST CHURCH GEORGETOWN CONFIRMS HE HAS COVID-19; FAMILY QUARANTINED

BY PEGGY SA NDS “I can now confirm that I am the individual [in Washington, D.C.] who tested positive for the coronavirus,� the Rev. Tim Cole, rector of Christ Church in Georgetown, wrote in an email to his parishioners at noon on Sunday, March 8.

This was just hours after the church leadership had informed parishioners in an early-morning email that “All services and meetings at Christ Church have been suspended until further notice in response to a presumed positive case of coronavirus in our community.�

As of Monday, D.C. government urged Christ Church parishioners who had been in contact (within six feet) with Cole to self-quarantine.

At a late-evening press conference on Saturday, Mayor Muriel Bowser had announced that D.C. forensic scientists had diagnosed the District’s first case of coronavirus. “The patient is a city resident in his 50s who appears to have not traveled outside the United States,� she said. “At this point, he appears to have no history of international travel and no close contacts with a confirmed case. The patient started having symptoms in ‘late February’ and was admitted to a D.C. hospital on Thursday.� “I want to assure you that I will be okay,�

Cole wrote. “I am receiving excellent care and am in good spirits under the circumstances. I will remain quarantined for the next 14 days as will the rest of my family. “We did not make the decision to close our doors lightly, but out of an abundance of caution for the most vulnerable among us ...

There is no need to panic. Following sensible precautions provided by the CDC [Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention] will go a long way towards insuring the good health of our community. “The obvious question at this point is what you should do. First, please read the information provided on the CDC’s website ‌ If we are given any firm advice by public health officials, we will pass it to the Christ Church community as soon as possible. In the meantime, we have been asked to let parishioners know that should you experience any symptoms, please contact your healthcare provider,â€? wrote Cole, who ended his missive, “Faithfully, The Reverend Tim Cole.â€?

According to church spokesman Rob Volmer, Cole fell ill shortly after attending an Episcopal conference in Louisville on Feb. 22. Cole felt better after returning to Georgetown and participated in several church events, including four services attended by some 550 people on March 1.

But then Cole’s health deteriorated after Sunday. He was diagnosed with the flu and admitted to Georgetown University Hospital on Thursday. His test for coronavirus came back positive on Sunday morning, March 8.

It is not known how the church rector got the virus, and D.C. health officials are conducting an extensive investigation of his contacts and the church sanctuary.

At the corner of 31st and O Streets NW, Christ Church was founded in 1818. Its worshippers include many well-known Georgetowners and Washingtonians.

Cole’s symptoms were those identified by the CDC as usual for both the virus and the flu, namely a runny nose, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue and a high fever. People

The World Famous

48th Year

1819 35th St NW Washington DC between S & T Sts at Hardy Middle School (Across from the social Safeway) GeorgetownPropertyListings.com TTR Sotheby’s International Realty 1206 30th Street NW Washington DC o | 202-549-7373 c | 202-333-1212

Â

manager@georgetowneamarket.com

Â? Â? antiques, collectibles, furniture, jewelry, vintage furnishings & accessories

The Rev. Tim Cole (in blue and gold vestments) leads the bicentennial celebration of Christ Church Georgetown in May of 2018. Photo by Robert Devaney. with those symptoms and who have been in or around someone with the coronavirus are urged to see a doctor who can order a test for the disease.

In most cases to date, the coronavirus has had mild effects. But the elderly, especially those in fragile health, are particularly vulnerable to more serious, even fatal, cases.

In a new development, the D.C. public school School Without Walls announced it

would be closed for a deep cleaning on Monday, March 9. A man — so-called Patient 2 — recently arrived from Nigeria and became the second confirmed case of coronavirus in D.C. He had reportedly close contacts with people at the school for a day last week, before going to Maryland, where he is currently hospitalized. The decision to close and clean the school was made due to “an abundance of caution,� according to the school.

1155 23rd St NW, Unit PH2C 2 BD

3 BA | $2,450,000

Beautifully renovated penthouse at the Ritz Carlton featuring custom kitchen, all new appliances, three terraces and open oor plan.

Mark McFadden mark@mcfadden.partners | 703.216.1333 Hunter McFadden hunter@mcfadden.partners | 703.862.6840

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

5

TOWN TOPICS

New Façade Grant Program in Glover Park

BY PEGGY SAN D S

Montrose Park Tennis Court Work Underway

BY PEGGY SA NDS These days, to get to the playgrounds and picnic tables of Georgetown’s Montrose Park, next to the Dumbarton Oaks gardens on R Street, visitors have to navigate past heavy excavation equipment and high chain-link fencing wrapped in orange.

The reconstruction of the venerable tennis courts and a new drainage and stormwater management system are well underway.

“The two tennis courts adjacent to Lover’s Lane are being replaced in kind following the original north-south layout,” said Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Elizabeth Miller. In addition, “the two tennis courts adjacent to the Rope Walk will

Montrose Park tennis courts under construction. be replaced with one court redesigned to run north-south, parallel to the Rope Walk.”

The stormwater issues that have left some of the park flooded in the past will be addressed with the creation of a new management system, according to the National Park Service, which owns and manages the park. New native perennials and ground cover (grasses and shrubs) will be planted by Park Service landscape architect Mike McMahon, who designed the all-native gardens in Georgetown Waterfront Park.

“Hopefully, everything will be done by summer,” said Miller, a neighbor and tennis player. “I can hardly wait!”

This summer, more than $35,000 will be granted in unencumbered money, not loans, to business and property owners with physical locations along Wisconsin Avenue in Glover Park. The funds will be distributed by the new Glover Park Main Street organization through its Façade Improvement Grant Program.

“The idea is to make Glover Park a friendlier, more attractive place to shop and spend time,” said Kate Dean, executive director. The funds are to be used, this round only, to reimburse property owners and tenants for enhancing the exteriors of their buildings, generally those facing Wisconsin Avenue between Calvert Street and Whitehaven Parkway, just north of Safeway and Trader Joe’s.

Projects can include exterior painting, repairs, signage, lighting, perhaps even some sidewalk enhancements. But time is tight. Applications are due by March 16 and approved projects must be completed by June.

Along with making a sudden, visible improvement to Glover Park’s commercial area, the top priority this year for Glover Park Main Street is to get organized and

oriented, according to Dean. The DC Main Streets program has strict organizational standards and firm deadlines to be met for funding to be continued.

Next year’s efforts will address not only some of the area’s visible blight but also such challenges as parking, walkability and the existence of large vacant properties — or what Dean likes to call “available opportunities.”

The spark for all of that will be the renovation and reopening of Whole Foods, “the real anchor of Glover Park,” she said.

For details about the grant program, and to apply, visit gloverparkmainstreet.org.

Hinckley Pottery Classes for Kids Spring sessions start Sunday 3/15 Camp Mud 2020 Weekly sessions start 6/22 Register online 3132 Blues Alley NW Georgetown DC 202-745-7055 www.hinckleypottery.com

Georgetown: A Fabulous 200-Year-Old Federal Enjoy the style, elegance and spaciousness of one of Georgetown's most renowned homes. Built by Mayor Cox in 1817. Magnificently updated and maintained all of these years. Double parlors with gorgeous fireplaces. Serene kitchen and garden room. 5 bedrooms/ 6 baths and 3 half baths. Tall ceilings and tall windows flood the interior with light. Over 7,000 square feet with an elevator. Beautifully designed front and back gardens and 6 car parking complete the picture of convenience. Call for an appointment. $6,500,000

3327 N Street, NW

Margaret Byrne Heimbold GRI - Realtor (R) Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc. 1680 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20007 C | 202-812-2750 O | 202-944-8400 margaretheimbold@lnf.com 6 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

GEORGETOWN 3332 O Street NW Washington, DC $3,800,000 Russell Firestone +1 202 271 1701

CLEVELAND PARK 3617 Newark Street NW Washington, DC $2,999,999 Chena Bolton +1 202 695 4740

GEORGETOWN 2709 N Street NW #102 Washington, DC

GEORGETOWN 3329 Prospect Street NW PH#6 Washington, DC $4,250,000 Daniel Heider +1 703 785 7820

MASS AVE HEIGHTS 2845 McGill Terrace NW Washington, DC $3,950,000 Jonathan Taylor +1 202 276 3344

GEORGETOWN 1317 35th Street NW Washington, DC $1,645,000

$2,349,000 William Fastow +1 202 536 7675

GEORGETOWN 3312 Dent Place NW Washington, DC $1,825,000 Theo Adamstein +1 202 285 1177

GEORGETOWN 1406 29th Street NW Washington, DC

Jonathan Taylor +1 202 276 3344 Maxwell Rabin +1 202 669 7406

GEORGETOWN 3053 Q Street NW Washington, DC $2,500,000 Michael Rankin +1 202 271 3344

GEORGETOWN 1665 32nd Street NW Washington, DC

$1,895,000 $1,250,000 Jonathan Taylor +1 202 276 3344 Maxwell Rabin +1 202 669 7406

FOGGY BOTTOM 2600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW #2C Washington, DC

Brian Blackburn +1 703 447 3085

GEORGETOWN 2901 Q Street NW #2 Washington, DC

$995,000 $890,000 Lou Cardenas +1 202 669 4083 Matt McCormick +1 202 365 5883

Brian Blackburn +1 703 447 3085

BROKERAGES: GEORGETOWN 1206 30TH STREET NW, WASHINGTON, DC | +1 202 333 1212 DOWNTOWN, DC • CHEVY CHASE, MD • BETHESDA, MD • ANNAPOLIS, MD • MCLEAN, VA • ALEXANDRIA, VA • ARLINGTON, VA • THE PLAINS, VA TTRSIR.COM ©2020 TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.

Equal housing opportunity. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Price and availability subject to change.

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

7

EDITORIAL

OPINION

CAG UPDATE

Pedestrian Safety

BY C H ERYL GR AY Send Your Feedback, Questions or Concerns, Tips and Suggestions to editorial@georgetowner.com or call 202-338-4833

Thank You, Father Tim: Time to Prep, Not Panic By now, you know that the Rev. Tim Cole, rector of Christ Church in Georgetown, is D.C.’s first confirmed case of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

That the virus hit a familiar figure in the heart of Georgetown was truly a wake-up call.

Cole wrote to his Episcopal parish on March 8: “I can now confirm that I am the individual [in Washington, D.C.] who tested positive for the coronavirus.”

Admitted to a local hospital, Cole assured all that he was on the road to recovery and joined Mayor Muriel Bowser in asking Christ Church parishioners to self-quarantine for 14 days if they were in contact with him on Feb. 24 or between Feb. 28 and March 3 at the church. Recently, the church’s organist also tested positive.

Co-founded by “Star-Spangled Banner” author Francis Scott Key, the church, at 31st and O Streets NW, has been temporarily closed. Its parishioners include some movers and shakers, from C. Boyden Gray to Tucker Carlson. Still, no one is in panic mode. That is thanks to Cole.

A former assistant chaplain general in the British army, the Christ Church rector spoke briefly from the altar on March 1 about calmly dealing with the coronavirus epidemic, in its global and local manifestations.

Meanwhile, a doctor and an infectious diseases specialist at the University of Toronto likewise urges balance and perspective. His advice went viral a few days ago. Wrote Abdu Sharkawy, in part: “I am rightly concerned for the welfare of those who are elderly, in frail health or disenfranchised who stand to suffer mostly, and disproportionately, at the hands of this new scourge. But I am not scared of Covid-19.

“What I am scared about is the loss of reason and wave of fear that has induced the masses of society into a spellbinding spiral of panic, stockpiling obscene quantities of anything that could fill a bomb shelter adequately in a post-apocalyptic world.

Washington Bishop Mariann Budde with Christ Church Rector, the Rev. Tim Cole, during its bicentennial in 2018. … I am scared that our hospitals will be overwhelmed with anyone who thinks they ‘probably don’t have it but may as well get checked out no matter what because you just never know’ … and those with heart failure, emphysema, pneumonia and strokes will pay the price for overfilled ER waiting rooms.

“But mostly, I’m scared about what message we are telling our kids when faced with a threat. Instead of reason, rationality, openmindedness and altruism, we are telling them to panic, be fearful, suspicious, reactionary and self-interested.”

In no way do we endorse minimizing what has proven to be a serious threat.

But the growing wave of school and campus closings and cancelations — of festivals, parades, conferences, trips and performances — can only lead to a state of social paralysis, with lasting impact on our economic and mental health.

So, kudos to Cole and Sharkawy for their direct, honest and calm communications, which should be emulated by those in authority elsewhere. Let’s follow their lead.

How is your routine being affected by COVID-19?

YOUR OPINION MATTERS. Post your response.

Facebook.com/TheGeorgetowner

8 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

I often hear Georgetown residents express concerns about pedestrian safety, particularly given the growing number and variety of vehicles all around us. It can feel dangerous to cross our busy streets and navigate sidewalks shared with scooters. Bikers and drivers may find it hard to share narrow streets, and creating more room for vehicle traffic risks losing scarce parking spaces valued by residents.

On Feb. 24, the Citizens Association of Georgetown held a community meeting on pedestrian safety at the lovely Ritz-Carlton Georgetown. Linda Bailey, director of the District Department of Transportation’s Vision Zero program, updated residents on DDOT’s initiatives related to the management and coordination of pedestrian traffic, cars, bikes, scooters and other modes of transportation.

The goal of Vision Zero is to eliminate traffic fatalities in the District. These fatalities often result from excessive driving speeds and/or poor visibility.

DDOT‘s initiatives include redesigning dangerous intersections, installing more visible crosswalks and adding bike lanes and traffic cameras. To help better manage the growing number of scooters, DDOT is working to assign designated areas for scooter parking.

Ms. Bailey noted the difficult trade-offs involved in transportation planning, such as whether to allow parking on narrow streets and whether to let scooters ride on sidewalks. She stressed the importance of community engagement in deciding how to manage those trade-offs. CAG would like to thank Ms. Bailey for her clear and thoughtful presentation and the RitzCarlton for being such a great host.

Leaders of CAG’s public safety program were also on hand at the community meeting to provide updates and answer questions.

This program funds an evening patrol car, street cameras and other initiatives to reduce crime in Georgetown. The program relies entirely on residents’ contributions.

CAG welcomes contributions, which can be made online at cagtown.org, and thanks current members for their support.

CAG’s next community meeting will be a candidates’ forum on March 23 at St John’s Church, 3240 O St. NW. Georgetown residents will be able to hear from and interact with the candidates running for the Ward 2 seat on the D.C. Council. A reception at 6:30 p.m. will precede the program, starting at 7 p.m.

We look forward to a lively conversation — please join us!

Cheryl Gray is president of the Citizens Association of Georgetown.

Letters to the Editor Bus Cuts Are Wrong for D.C. Public transportation is vital to our city’s progress. I’ve long fought for better bus service in our city and my work was cited in the new book “Better Buses, Better Cities.” My neighbors of all ages are deeply concerned about Metro’s proposed bus cuts to our neighborhood. We went down to testify at Metro HQ and the D.C. Council five times since December, asking Metro to not reduce our bus service and to extend the public comment period.

I’m glad Metro has agreed to a comment extension until March 9 at 5 p.m. I encourage all residents to go to wmata. com to comment as soon as possible and tell Metro, “We need MORE bus service, not less” — especially since our neighborhood

has no walkable access to Metrorail.

If these cuts go through, the number of buses in our neighborhood will be cut in half during rush hours! My constituents tell me they will likely drive more — adding to congestion and pollution. At a time when we are trying to encourage public transportation and address climate change, this is exactly the wrong policy.

Therefore, we will continue to fight for better bus service and expanded public transportation in our neighborhood and all across our city.

— Kishan Putta, ANC 2E commissioner and Ward 2 Council candidate

Got a suggestion? Got a gripe?

Email your Letter to the Editor — editorial@georgetowner.com

CAMPAIGN 2020

DOWNTOWNER The Line DC hotel featuring artwork for Women’s History Month.

Ward 2 Debate: Evans Wants Second Chance, Gets Boos

BY PEGGY SA NDS “I’m here tonight to ask for your forgiveness,” said Jack Evans, the former (and longest serving) District Council member, before a packed audience at a Ward 2 candidates forum held on March 5 at Foundry United Methodist Church on 16th Street NW. “I have made some big mistakes.

I have embarrassed and disappointed the city, the ward, my family, my kids and myself. Now I ask you for a second chance.”

Evans made his one-minute introductory remarks alongside eight other candidates, all vying for the Ward 2 Council seat that he resigned in January, just hours before he was to be expelled for ethics violations.

Evans was greeted with slight applause following his admission of wrongdoing, along with boos and hisses. It was his first public appearance at a candidates debate.

Also participating were Democrats John Fanning, Jordan Grossman, Daniel Hernandez, Patrick Kennedy, Brooke Pinto and Yilin Zhang, along with the lone Republican, Katherine Venice. The 90-minute forum was moderated by WAMU radio host Kojo Nnamdi and District politics pundit Tom Sherwood, formerly of NBC4 News.

Each candidate got between 30 seconds and two minutes to respond to specific questions from the moderators about how they would vote on some current issues.

Topics ranged from a proposed $150 fine for blocking a bike lane to the decriminalization of prostitution and the removal of homeless camps on D.C. thoroughfares.

The moderators also posed a series of lightening-round yes-or-no questions, such as “Would you support the NFL Washington team if it would pay for a new stadium at RFK?” and “If you could defund one city agency, which would it be?” Several did not want the Redskins to come back and most replied “DCRA” to the second question, referring to the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs.

“I was trying to liven up the debate,” Sherwood told The Georgetowner.

The candidates cooperated, more or less, with this fast-moving framework, passing increasingly defunct microphones to one another and stopping when a whistle indicated that their allotted time was up.

Only once did they unanimously agree, laughing ironically when a slightly smiling Evans threw up both arms in agreement.

The question? “Do you believe that Council members should be prohibited from taking outside employment?” Evans’s outside employment was the issue on which various investigations focused last year.

The moderators also asked the candidates if they agreed that the will of voters in an election or a referendum should be subject to reversal by the Council. In 2019, an initiative to raise the minimum wage of all tipped employees in the city (baristas,

waiters, etc.) passed. But tipped employees made a strong case opposing it, arguing that it threatened to end tipping altogether.

Council members, including Evans, narrowly overturned the vote. Most of the candidates on Thursday were adamant that the popular vote should prevail at all times.

Things got awkward when the moderators then asked whether the candidates would support the Council overturning the will of the voters should Evans be voted into office in June. Even the audience squirmed.

“I TOLD YOU I CAN REPRESENT THIS WARD BETTER THAN ANYBODY,” EVANS RESPONDED. “Your applause and boos are taking up time that could be used to hear the candidates’ answers,” Sherwood growled.

“There is no reason to be vitriolic against Evans,” said Kennedy, who had been one of several co-chairs of the Evans campaign in 2016. “But, Jack, I just don’t know why you are doing this,” he said to Evans, drawing applause.

“I told you I can represent this ward better than anybody,” Evans responded.

There was no question that Evans’s many accomplishments on the District’s behalf were appreciated. But there was also the unmistakable feeling in the crowd that new blood should now be considered. Six of the nine candidates are a generation younger than Evans, and they represent a greater diversity of racial, ethnic, socioeconomic and even national heritage backgrounds than does the current Council.

Somehow, it was easy after the first 20 minutes to remember and distinguish each of the nine candidates. Maybe that’s because people interested in politics these days have gotten used to 10 and more candidates onstage at a debate. Or perhaps it was because the moderators kept the format snappy enough to learn something about each one.

“I haven’t made up my mind yet about which candidate I will vote for, but the forum helped a lot to get to know them and their positions,” said Marcy Logan, a board member of the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, which co-sponsored the event with the Logan Circle Community Association.

The District Democratic primary will be held on June 2, and the special election to fill the vacant Ward 2 Council seat on June 16.

BY KATE OC ZYPOK

WOMEN’S MONTH AT THE LINE

The Line DC hotel is celebrating International Women’s Month with programming that includes a new banner featuring artwork by local artist Rebecca Rea-Holloway (@thesweetfeminist), a screening of the documentary “Venus VS.” about tennis star Venus Williams’s fight for equal prize money and a “Queer Women in Leadership” panel.

TRANSIT PROPOSAL FROM COUNCIL’S ALLEN

D.C. Council member Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) introduced the “Metro For DC Amendment Act of 2020,” a proposal that would provide $100-per-month SmarTrip subsidies and better bus service in overlooked communities. Allen said the plan would boost the region’s economy by helping businesses keep their employees and acquire customers put off by D.C. parking costs and traffic.

EMERGENCY ‘GHOST GUN’ LEGISLATION

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced emergency legislation to prohibit the possession, assembly, sale and purchase of any type of “ghost gun” in D.C. The term refers to undetectable guns made of nonmetal materials in 3-D printers. They also could be 80-percent kits, assembled without the usual machinery and lacking a serial number.

CONGRESS ACCEPTS L’ENFANT STATUE

After 12 years, the House of Representatives agreed to accept the gift of a bronze statue of Pierre Charles L’Enfant. Though each state has two statues in the Capitol, D.C. was denied its statues because Republican lawmakers argued that the District isn’t a state. L’Enfant designed the original plan for the District in 1791. Since 2008, the statue has been at One Judiciary Square.

CHANGES TO METRORAIL FARES, HOURS PROPOSED

A fiscal year 2021 budget proposal by Metro includes fare hikes and extended hours for Metrorail: until midnight on weekdays and 2 a.m. on weekends. According to WJLA, 81 percent of nightlife-business owners responding to a recent survey said their business could be improved by a return to late-night Metro service. The system cut its hours four years ago.

Statue of Pierre Charles L’Enfant.

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

9

PHO TOS B Y GRE GO RY “ F R I T Z ” B LA K E Y

A Chat With Dr. To

FOR THE PIONEERING PH THE ROAD TO HAPPINES PAVED WITH PEACE, PAS AND PURPOSE

BY SUSAN BO DIKER On paper, Dr. Eleni Tousimis is an intimidating figure.

An award-winning physician and professional dynamo, she pioneered nipplesparing mastectomies, minimally invasive surgical procedures and nonnarcotic pain control. Tousimis joined MedStar Georgetown in 2012 and is now site director of the MedStar Breast Health Program, director of the Betty Lou Ourisman Breast Health Center, chief of breast surgery and Breast Oncology Fellowship director.

In addition to her demanding day job, she is currently enrolled in a rigorous executive MBA program at MIT, from which she will graduate in June. The mother of two boys, aged 8 and 9, Tousimis is married to Raphael Thiney, co-founder and chief technology officer of SafeGuard Privacy.

Yet, for all her accolades and accomplishments, when you finally meet Tousimis face to face, what strikes you most is her warmth — how present she is.

She is the person you’d most wish to be at your side when you are confronting a scary diagnosis, someone you’d trust implicitly with your life.

Is it any wonder that the Dalai Lama selected her to be his personal physician whenever he traveled to Washington, D.C.?

We met on a cool Friday afternoon and spoke in her comfortable yet elegant living room, seated next to a crackling fire and surrounded by books, family photos and artwork.

Let’s start at the beginning. You’re a native Washingtonian, yes?

Eleni Tousimis: Yes, I was born here, up the street at Columbia Hospital for Women.

I was the baby. I have two brothers and a sister, along with a huge extended Greek family. Lots of cousins, lots of love. I feel very blessed.

Both my parents emigrated from Greece and were dedicated to education, science and making the world a better place. My father served in a variety of positions at Walter Reed, the Armed Forces Institute, GW Medical School and the NASA Apollo Scientific Committee, working on everything from adenoviruses to the moon landing. In 1965, he started the Tousimis Research Laboratory. It became my second home. I grew up surrounded by science and it was a formative influence on me.

What was your education like?

Tousimis: I went to Holton-Arms for six years, graduated early and won a scholarship to Mount Holyoke. I was super young, played rugby and loved every minute. I was working in the SEM [scanning electron microscope] lab and it was then that I decided to become a doctor. I decided to 10 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

ousimis

HYSICIAN, S IS SSION

spend my junior year at Dartmouth because I wanted to experience coed education. The night before my graduation, I biked from Dartmouth in New Hampshire to Mount Holyoke in South Hadley, Massachusetts.

It took 17 hours to go 135 miles, and that included crossing over Mount Putney!

And then straight on to medical school?

Tousimis: No, I wanted to explore the world a little. So I moved to Athens, went to a Greek school to improve my fluency and taught English to make a little money.

Then I went to medical school, Albany Medical College, but did my rotations in different countries: England, Scotland, Arizona on Indian reservations. Working in different locations made me a better doctor.

It encouraged me to rely more on clinical skills — my mind and my hands — and less on technology to diagnose and treat.

What inspired you to become a surgeon?

Tousimis: I had learned to do cleft palate repair in the Philippines and it was amazing to me how you could change a person’s life with a relatively simple procedure. There was such joy in that. Later, I chose breast surgery as my specialty after training in Greece and then in Milan, where I learned the innovative techniques I use today.

The Breast Health Center, now named for Betty Lou Ourisman, has undergone a major transformation during your tenure. What was the vision behind the renovation?

Tousimis: We completely transformed the space with the generous support of 30 members of the Ourisman family. I met them when I first came to Georgetown and invited them to go on a tour of the breast center. Four days later, [Mandell Ourisman’s] wife was diagnosed with breast cancer. She received our cutting-edge care and was committed to matching the facility to the care we were providing. It is now inviting, warm, comfortable and peaceful.

We have also started a hospital sustainability program, with a focus on our People, Patients and Planet. We are developing programs to reduce waste and our carbon footprint. And we have instituted mindfulness training for all our staff — doctors, nurses, admins, techs, radiologists.

We all meet as a team 15 minutes before the clinic opens and set our intention for the day.

A perfect segue to your work with the Dalai Lama. How did that come about?

Tousimis: In 2016, the Dalai Lama’s physician in Washington, D.C., had retired.

I was asked to be his personal physician whenever he visited the nation’s capital.

While I was honored, I asked if it was appropriate for a female breast cancer

Dr. Eleni Tousimis (right) was the Dalai Lama’s personal physician in Washington, D.C. Courtesy Eleni Tousimis and the Tibetan Society. surgeon to care for an 80-year-old man.

During my interview, the physician director explained that the Dalai Lama did not care about my specialty. He just cared that I had a good heart and a good brain. I said, “I am in!”

When I met him for the first time I was allowed to ask him one question: “In a world dominated by technology, how can physicians provide compassionate care?” He answered that, with our extensive medical education, we should always use our hearts in combination with our brains before we make any decisions.

I have incorporated teachings from both MIT and the Dalai Lama’s Tibetan physician into my surgical practice of cancer patients.

Within a few months, our group of morning mindfulness practitioners grew, and we saw our efforts translate into better care for our patients. We received the highest patient experience award in the entire hospital.

You don’t often associate “enlightenment” with business school.

What motivated that decision to go back to school?

Tousimis: My engagement with the Dalai Lama taught me a lot about compassion, peace, tolerance and the importance of a broad education. After being a surgeon for almost 20 years, I realized that my medical education was very specialized and narrow.

I started to understand the importance of a broad education in other topics — such as international relations, organizational operations, management, data analytics, design, emotional intelligence — and was inspired to go back to school for an MBA to widen my skill set in these areas. I felt MIT was the best fit for a surgeon with an emphasis on science, technology, innovation and leadership.

It has surpassed my wildest expectations and I have found that the most gratifying career happiness surprisingly has been while in business school and caring for cancer patients simultaneously.

During my time at MIT and my engagement with the Dalai Lama, I have had a complete realization that in order to achieve happiness in life we should strive for creating peace within us and around us, as well as have a passion and purpose in life.

In other words, P3 equals H: Peace, Passion and Purpose equals Happiness.

Eleni Tousimis, M.D., at her Georgetown home (opposite page) and with her son Alex (above).

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

11

REAL ESTATE

PROVIDED BY WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES

FEBRUARY 2020 SALES

ADDRESS

SUBDIVISION/NEIGHBORHOOD

3303 Water St NW #3A 4845 Hutchins Pl NW 2519 Massachusetts Ave NW 2660 Connecticut Ave NW #4C 5305 Dorsett Pl NW 4891 Macarthur Blvd NW 4005 Highwood Ct NW 3333 35th St NW 1803 Phelps Pl NW 2101 Connecticut Ave NW #75 7076 Oregon NW 3732 Chesapeake St NW 5118 Lowell Ln NW 5140 Tilden St NW 3228 Woodley Rd NW 2230 Decatur Pl NW 419 U St NW 2800 O St NW 2811 Foxhall Rd NW 1333 T St NW 2318 44th St NW 3718 Garfield St NW 940 T St NW 4802 Foxhall Cres NW 5119 Cathedral Ave NW 1508 P St NW 1005 P St NW 3745 Winfield Ln NW 3916 McKinley St NW 2104 Vermont Ave NW 2947 Tilden St NW 1536 44th St NW 4010 Warren St NW WANT TO SEE MORE REAL 3814 Jenifer St NW 2242 Hall Pl NW 3217 Reservoir Rd NW 5901 Nebraska Ave NW 2019 13th St NW 1405 NW 5th St NW 2900 K St NW #605 1927 15th St NW 1308 Farragut St NW

ESTATE

GEORGETOWN PALISADES KALORAMA WOODLEY PARK PALISADES KENT HILLANDALE CLEVELAND PARK KALORAMA KALORAMA HAWTHORNE WAKEFIELD KENT SPRING VALLEY CLEVELAND PARK KALORAMA LEDROIT PARK GEORGETOWN WESLEY HEIGHTS LOGAN / U STREET WESLEY HEIGHTS OBSERVATORY CIRCLE SHAW FOXHALL CRESCENT KENT LOGAN CIRCLE LOGAN CIRCLE GEORGETOWN CHEVY CHASE OLD CITY #2 FOREST HILLS FOXHALL VILLAGE AMERICAN UNIVERSITY PARK SALES? FIND THE FULL LIST CHEVY CHASE GLOVER PARK GEORGETOWN CHEVY CHASE U STREET CORRIDOR SHAW NONE AVAILABLE U STREET CORRIDOR 16TH STREET HEIGHTS

BEDS 2 6 4 3 5 7 5 5 5 3 6 5 5 5 7 3 4 3 6 5 5 5 4 10 4 4 3 4 4 3 5 5 4 ONLINE 3 4 3 6 4 3 2 5 6

AT

FULL BATH

HALF BATH

2 1 5 1 3 1 3 1 4 1 7 1 4 1 3 1 5 1 2 1 6 1 6 4 1 4 1 4 1 5 4 1 3 6 1 4 1 3 1 3 1 4 1 6 3 4 1 3 1 2 1 4 1 3 1 1 4 1 3 1 3 1 GEORGETOWNER.COM! 2 2 3 1 3 4 1 3 1 3 1 2 3 5 1

LIST PRICE

CLOSE P

$3,295,000 $3,100,000 $3,250,000 $3,050,000 $2,795,000 $2,295,000 $2,700,000 $2,300,000 $2,300,000 $2,595,000 $2,450,000 $2,150,000 $2,250,000 $2,100,000 $1,900,000 $1,975,000 $1,950,000 $1,950,000 $2,100,000 $1,949,000 $1,835,000 $1,824,900 $1,800,000 $1,800,000 $1,775,000 $1,475,000 $1,650,000 $1,674,900 $1,669,000 $1,600,000 $1,500,000 $1,495,000 $1,489,900 $1,495,000 $1,495,000 $1,495,000 $1,475,000 $999,000 $1,299,000 $1,395,000 $1,280,000 $1,320,000

$3,150 $3,025 $2,950 $2,900 $2,795 $2,410 $2,400 $2,310 $2,300 $2,287 $2,275 $2,272 $2,150 $2,020 $1,970 $1,925 $1,900 $1,900 $1,875 $1,830 $1,820 $1,800 $1,771 $1,740 $1,695 $1,653 $1,650 $1,640 $1,620 $1,600 $1,535 $1,525 $1,500 $1,495 $1,495 $1,455 $1,395 $1,308 $1,300 $1,300 $1,280 $1,275

BE YOURSELF Creekside is not just a beautiful place to live, it’s an engaging environment where new friends are made and old friends kept close by. Make each day unique while sharing stories and experiences, and better yet—creating new ones.

BE YOURSELF AT INGLESIDE AT ROCK CREEK.

Schedule a Pe r s o n a l Tour Today!

Reserve your new home at Ingleside at Rock Creek and receive a 95% refund option—offer is limited, call now.

INGLESIDE AT ROCK CREEK

202-407-9676 // www.ircdc.org

12 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

Ingleside at Rock Creek is a not-for-profit, CARF-accredited, SAGECare-certified, life plan community.

REAL ESTATE

House of the Week: A Very Irish House on 36th St. During the early 1800s, west Georgetown attracted many Irish immigrants proficient in the building trades — carpenters, stone cutters and bricklayers. They came to work on construction projects in the Federal City, including on many of the larger homes in Georgetown, belonging to the likes of the Riggs, the Corcorans and other well-known families.

It was common practice for many of the Irish immigrants to acquire a home and take in family and friends who came to join them until they were able to establish their own homes. During the 1820s, some of the more entrepreneurial among them became real estate investors, buying small plots in west Georgetown to sell to other Irish laborers.

During the 1820s, one of those immigrants, George Mahorney, a bricklayer by profession, became involved in several small businesses.

He operated a tavern at the corner of then Third Street (P Street) and High Street (Wisconsin Avenue), a storehouse and a grocery. He also became a land investor and constructed the home at 1423 36th Street (then Lingan Street) in 1821.

By 1832, local land investment hit hard times and Mahorney lost much of his property in foreclosure. By 1852, the house was purchased by William Corcoran, co-founder of the Riggs National Bank and founder of the Corcoran Gallery of Art. He sold it in 1866.

Renovations over the years have carefully preserved many of the architectural details of the original, much smaller, early 19th-century cottage. Due to a 1920s addition by the Harrington family, who retained ownership for 100 years, it now features 2,490 square feet of living space.

A microcosm of early Irish immigration to Georgetown, this elegant, semidetached, three-bedroom, three-bath period home has been meticulously maintained.

It is located on a quiet one-way street and features period character throughout, including original, exposed beams — said to be from 18th-century sailing vessels from Georgetown harbor — hardwood floors and custom cabinetry.

Visitors step into the graceful living room, with a fireplace and exposed beams.

1423 36th St NW. The spacious, light-filled family room is flanked by windows and French doors that open onto the double-lot, professionally landscaped backyard. A full bath is off the family room. On the second floor are two of the three bedrooms: the master bedroom, which overlooks the trees and is flanked by roomy closets fitted with antique mirrors, and the spacious second bedroom. The marble-tiled bathroom on this level features a granite-topped double vanity, a glassenclosed shower, a separate spa tub and Venetian plastered walls.

The large gourmet kitchen provides a comfortable gathering space and separate seating. It features custom built-ins, generous granite countertops, a professional Viking six-burner gas stove and high-end

stainless steel appliances. French doors lead from the kitchen to the stone patio and the large backyard with its water-feature fishpond. The dining room features a brass wet bar and trompe l’oeil wood paneling painted by a famed Washington painter.

The third bedroom, full bathroom, butler’s pantry and laundry room are also located on this level. There is generous storage throughout.

The sunny office opens to the spacious private roof deck with views of the treetops, Georgetown and the Washington Monument — a private perch from which to enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks. The home features a copper roof and copper downspouts.

Alongside the house is a brick driveway with parking for two vehicles.

Complimentary Auction Estimates One of the nation’s largest and fastest growing auction houses is now open in Washington, D.C. and welcoming fine art consignments. We invite you to contact Business Development Director Maura Ross to discuss our auction Sam Gilliam Untitled, 1970. Sold for $52,500.

and appraisal services for individual objects and entire collections.

SCHEDULE A PERSONAL APPOINTMENT

Maura Ross 202.853.1638 washingtondc@hindmanauctions.com

Sam Francis, Untitled (SF84-223). Sold for $162,500.

HindmanAuctions.com GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

13

BUSINESS

30+ Years Experience

Free Estimates

Even the cuteness factor of this little guy is no match for our luxurious and durable flooring!

Give us your test and we'll give you our best!

An extensive selection of vessels is arranged by color and style. Courtesy Paddywax.

The Art of the Pour FINDING ENLIGHTENMENT AT PADDYWAX CANDLE BAR

BY SU SAN BOD IKER

HARDWOOD • LAMINATE • VINYL CARPET • DESIGN ASSISTANCE 571-229-9027 affordablecarpetandflooring.com Serving Northern Virginia and DC

14 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

The one and only crafting event I’ve ever willingly participated in as an adult was last December at the Smithsonian, where a friend and I attended a lecture given by the author of a book devoted to artists and their feline muses.

After the presentation, we — cat lovers all — filed into the hall for the craft portion of the evening, at which we were encouraged to create cat-themed Christmas cards or ornaments.

Perhaps we were still reacting to the sly humor of the presenter — or we were just drunk with cat love — but making these things was really hard. All we could do was laugh helplessly at our attempts. It was very therapeutic.

So when I learned that Nashville-based Paddywax Candle Bar had opened a new location in Georgetown on Wisconsin Avenue, I was burning to go. Still, I wondered: Could I repeat that experience, or had I passed Peak Craft?

As it happened, I was just getting started.

Candles have been around for over 5,000 years. According to the National Candle Association, the Egyptians were the first to make use of wicked (pronounced “wikt,” not a moral judgment) candles. But it wasn’t until colonial times that scented candles came into their own.

Now, of course, they’re ubiquitous in all shapes, sizes and price points. Once you make one of your own, you’ll never see candles in the same light again.

Paddywax’s Georgetown studio is an open industrial space, painted in white, accented in Southwestern shades of pink and blue and lit with hanging lights that look like inverted tapers. Along the exposed brick

walls are shelves of candle vessels, scented oils and personal items like notebooks, mugs, beauty products and jewelry — all with a handcrafted, artisanal look and feel.

Pouring a candle is fairly simple, thanks to manager Leslie Bethel and her team, who guide apprentice chandlers through the process and familiarize them with the tools of the trade, from the apron (you feel very professional and crafty) to the tray with a scale (for measuring), beakers for the scented oil and wax, a glass rod for stirring and a bamboo straw for affixing the wicks.

Once you pick your vessel and preferred scent, you get to work. After an hour, voilà, your first candle. It takes about three hours for the wax to cure (harden), so you can pick up your masterpiece later that day or the next.

In a recent article about the changing retail landscape, the New York Times reported that consumers are turning away from acquiring more “stuff,” instead looking for unique experiences — things you can’t get at a mall or a traditional store. Paddywax, by providing this handson activity, is clearly onto something that is especially attractive to next-gen shoppers.

Making candles is intentional (selecting vessels and scents), meditative (stirring and pouring) and aesthetically pleasing (the finished product). It is also very therapeutic.

And my house smells divine.

Paddywax Candle Bar is located at 1065 Wisconsin Ave. NW. There is also a store in Reston, Virginia. Workshops last approximately an hour and cost $40 per person. Reservations are required and can be scheduled online at thecandlebar.co/ products/candle-pouring-georgetown.

ARTS

Alexandra Petri’s ‘Inherit the Windbag’

BY G ARY T IS CHL ER There’s been so much political, cultural and natural drama (see COVID-19) lately that some folks might be thinking it looks like 1968 all over again.

That, for sure, was a pretty dramatic year, and Washington theater audiences will be getting a reminder and a sharp taste of 1968 when the aptly titled “Inherit the Windbag,” a smartly cutting satire by playwright and Washington Post columnist Alexandra Petri, opens on March 11. Mosaic Theater Company’s world-premiere production will run through March 29 at the Atlas Performing Arts Center.

The play operates something like a really bumpy time machine, with a one-way, no-exit ticket to one of the big moments of 1968 — a year of many big moments — when two pungent world-class pundits took off on a series of debates that in many ways defined the take-no-prisoners political climate of the times. It was a foreshadowing of the similar poison-gas atmosphere that exists today.

In 1968, liberal essayist, historical novelist and breaker of social mores Gore Vidal and conservative editor, political commentator and spy novelist William F. Buckley hovered over the presidential race like ideological and very individualistic scolds, conducting their own personal war against the background of

a real war in Vietnam and various political and cultural wars in the streets of American cities and towns.

“It’s very much a reminder that those divisions that we have now existed back then, and then some,” said Ari Roth, Mosaic’s founding artistic director.

The debates — every bit as cutting, destructive and personal as those we see on social media and at political rallies today, but without the literary and intellectual sheen of the two protagonists — figured strongly in the general national debates. It’s not like it was a quiet year, what with the Tet Offensive, the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy and the riots at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.

The name-calling got pretty low for the high-minded Vidal and the aristocratic Buckley as they dueled in the foreground while Richard Nixon (whom we did have to kick around again) and Hubert Humphrey, the Minnesota happy warrior who almost pulled out a miracle, dueled in the background.

According to Petri, “the fascinating thing is how many of the debates they were having then are the same as the ones we’re having now, just in a different verbal guise.

Questions of racial justice, so-called law and order, American imperialism, wealth

disparity — these are still with us.”

In the play, Vidal and Buckley meet again in the so-called Dismal Beyond, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yorba Linda, California, and “reprise their infamous carnage,” aided and abetted by the likes of Ayn Rand on the one hand and James Baldwin on the other.

Top Washington actors John Lescault (Buckley) and Paul Morella (Vidal) take on the pivotal roles, with Stephen Kime and Tamieka Chavis playing various others. Lee Mikeska Gardner directs.

For Roth, the times and the year seem almost equally iconic, if not turbulent.

“This is our fifth anniversary season, for one thing,” he said. “We’ve come a long way, a long time, and we and I have learned a lot. We’ve met and learned from new people, new partners. This year, it feels as if, with ‘Windbag,’ and our upcoming productions of ‘The Till Trilogy,’ beginning in April, we’re touching on critical moments in our national history and in our history.”

“The Till Trilogy,” by playwright Ifa Bayeza and directed by Talvin Wilks, consists of “The Ballad of Emmett Till,” “That Summer in Sumner” and “Benevolence.” It centers on an event that reverberates to this day: the infamous murder of a young black

Chicago boy visiting relatives in Mississippi in the 1950s, at a time when King and others were launching the civil rights movement in the South.

“Inherit the Windbag” was commissioned through the Trish Vradenburg Play Commission as part of the Locally Grown Mosaic program. Vradenburg, a writer, columnist, novelist and playwright herself, was a member of the Theater J council and an early supporter of Mosaic.

When we look at newspapers today (there are lots fewer) or hear all the cable noise or listen to the shrinking number but ever louder Democrats who want to be president, just outside our feverish doors, we can remind ourselves — via “Inherit the Windbag,” for instance — that we’ve been here before.

Nineteen Sixty-Eight to Twenty Twenty: it’s not that long a way.

INHERIT THE WINDBAG MARCH 11 TO 29 MOSAIC THEATER COMPANY ATLAS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 1333 H ST. NE ATLASARTS.ORG 202-399-7993, EXT. 2

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

15

FOOD & WINE

Dining Guide

THE LATEST DISH

WASHINGTON DC’S FINEST RESTAURANTS

THE OCEANAIRE SEAFOOD ROOM 1201 F ST., NW 202–347–2277 | theoceanaire.com

The Oceanaire blends a sophisticated atmosphere with simple, seasonal and regionally-inspired cuisine – the result is “the ultra-fresh seafood experience”. From our wines and cocktails to our seafood, steak and desserts, our commitment to sustainable and locally-sourced ingredients is apparent in everything we do. Reserve your table today for an extraordinary dining experience.

ENO WINE BAR

2810 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., NW 202–295–2826 | enowinerooms.com HAPPY HOUR: Offered nightly Tuesday - Thursday from 5 - 7 PM & Sunday from 4 - 7 PM. Enjoy select $7 wines on tap. Join us on Wednesday’s for College Nights from 9 - 11 PM and Sunday’s for 30% off bottles. Our delightful wines are best enjoyed with local charcuterie, cheese and small plates.

FILOMENA RISTORANTE

CAFE BONAPARTE

1522 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202–333–8830 | cafebonaparte.com

1063 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202–338–8800 | filomena.com

Captivating customers since 2003, Cafe Bonaparte has been dubbed the “quintessential” European café, featuring award-winning crepes and arguably the “best” coffee in D.C.! Other can't-miss attractions are the famous weekend brunch every Saturday and Sunday until 3 p.m. and our late-night weekend hours serving sweet and savory crepes until 1 a.m.

A Georgetown landmark for over 30 years featuring styles and recipes passed through generations. Balanced cuttingedge culinary creations of modern Italy using the fresh ingredients and made-from-scratch sauces and pastas.

Seen on The Travel Channel, Award-winning Filomena is a favorite of U.S. Presidents, celebrities, sports legends, political leaders. “Don’t miss their bakery’s incredible desserts” - Best in D.C.

MARTIN’S TAVERN

ROCKLANDS BARBEQUE

Fifth generation Lauren Martin learns the family business from her dad, Billy Martin, Jr. Since 1933, the warm atmosphere of Martin’s Tavern has welcomed neighbors and travelers looking for great food, service and years of history within it’s walls. Fourth generation owner Billy Martin. Jr. continues the tradition of Washington’s oldest family-owned restaurant.

This original location has served barbecue since 1990.

We now have more space for you to sit down with family and friends at our new dining room Driving or walking up Wisconsin Avenue, you ask “mmmm, what’s that aroma??”

That’s pork, beef and chicken coming out of our wood-only smoker, falling off the bone and ready for a dousing with our Original Barbeque Sauce.

1264 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202-333-7370 | martinstavern.com

EMAIL ADVERTISE@GEORGETOWNER.COM OR CALL 202-338-4833

GMG, INC.

BY L IN D A R OTH New York City-based Nieuw Group will open Proper 21K in early April at 2033 K St. NW (hence the “K”) near Washington Circle. The first Proper 21 opened on F Street NW in Penn Quarter in 2016. In Manhattan, the company owns and operates Manhattan Proper and Proper West.

Common Plate Hospitality’s Urbano 116 will open a second Mexican restaurant in the Mosaic District in Fairfax, Virginia, at 2985 District Ave., where Brine used to be.

A third-quarter opening is planned. The company’s first restaurant, in Old Town Alexandria, is in menu-renovation mode, preparing to offer more Tex-Mex dishes.

Common Plate also operates Mason Social and Augie’s Mussel House and Beer Garden in Alexandria.

In 2022, Boston-based Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse will make its debut in the D.C. metro area in Reston, Virginia, with an 11,000-square-foot restaurant at 1902 Reston Metro Plaza. This classic American steakhouse, which first opened in Boston in 1985, also has locations in New York, Philadelphia, Atlanta and Los Angeles.

Founding Farmers, Sweet Leaf, Matchbox and Big Buns Damn Good Burger Co. are also slated to open at Reston Station.

open a location in Horseshoe Casino’s Marketplace food hall in Baltimore by the end of the first quarter. That will make six locations, including stalls at FedExField, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Nationals Park. Ben’s will be joined by Philadelphia-based Tony Luke’s sub shop, Lenny’s Deli, Piezzetta Pizza Kitchen and Guy’s Bar-B-Que Joint, a concept from “Food Network” host Guy Fieri.

Japan-based Kura Sushi and its U.S. subsidiary in Irvine, California, are slated to open their first D.C. outpost at Gallery Place at 614 H St. NW. The conveyor-beltthemed menu has about 140 items. Kura currently operates 400 restaurants in Japan and 24 in the U.S., in seven states. Up to nine are expected in this region.

Just Opened: Glover Park’s Xiquet opened at 2402 Wisconsin Ave. NW, above Slate Wine Bar, serving distinctive Spanish cuisine from Danny Lledó’s hometown of Dénia, Spain, a coastal town not far from Valencia … Malaysian restaurant Makan — brought to you by chef James Wozniuk, formerly of Maketto and Spoken English, and bar manager Kendrick Wu — opened in Columbia Heights above The Thirsty Crow, where Meridian Pint used to be …

2418 WISCONSIN AVE., NW 202-333-2558 | rocklands.com

JOIN THE DINING GUIDE!

16 MARCH 11, 2020

Makan Indonesian Restaurant.

Hei Hei Tiger will open in Tysons Galleria’s food hall. Courtesy Tiger Fork.

Sébastien Giannini.

Chef Update: Sébastien Giannini has been named executive chef at The Four Seasons in Georgetown. He was previously at The Watergate Hotel and, before that, The St. Regis … Chef Adam Howard has joined Occasions Caterers. He was formerly with Blue Duck Tavern at the Park Hyatt.

D.C. landmark Ben’s Chili Bowl will

Tiger Fork owners Will Fung, Greg Algie and chef Nathan Beauchamp have opened Hei Hei Tiger in the Urbanspace food hall in Tysons Galleria in Virginia.

Linda Roth is the founder and CEO of Linda Roth Associates, a D.C.-based public relations and marketing firm that specializes in the hospitality industry. Follow her on Twitter at @LindaRothPR or visit her on the web at lindarothpr.com.

CLASSIFIEDS / SERVICE DIRECTORY

CHEVY CHASE FLOOR WAXING SERVICE

BUILD IT BETTER • Kitchens • Bathrooms

Polishing, buffing, and waxing to preserve and protect your fine wood floors, using old-fashioned paste wax.

Family owned and operated for 30 years. Licensed Bonded Insured 301656-9274, Chevy Chase, MD

• Counter-Tops • Carpentry • Windows/Doors • Plumbing • Electrical • Tile • Shower Doors • General Repairs 301-779-8837 www.iBuildItBetter.com Licensed DC 3661- MD 41353 Servicing DC/MD for over 25 years

SERVICE

FOR RENT

PRIVATE TENNIS LESSONS

$25 for one hour private lesson in Georgetown and NW DC 202-333-3484 -Mark Harmonjacqueline47@yahoo.com

CONTINENTAL MOVERS

Moving hauling deliveries 25 years Int the business (202) 438-1489 (301) 340-0602 wmora52607@msn.com www.continentalmovees.net

PRIVATE NURSE

Private duty Registered Nurse and Team with over 25 years experience and exceptional record.

Available for 24 hours in home care.

We specialize in companionship care, medication management, wound care, ostomy care, incontinence care, G-tube, diabetic care and general home management.

Please contact Dawn or Gillian at 301467-3448 or 240-413-6748.

FOR RENT $1550 FURNISHED

(Upper Georgetown Glover Park) Available March 1st Lovely Studio Apt., Spacious, Beautiful view, open Pool, Walk to Local Universities, Embassies, Shops/ Groceries, Cable Ready, Utilities included!

Call (703) 409-7767

THE POWER OF LOCAL.

The Georgetowner is mailed to all 7,700 RESIDENTS & BUSINESS in Georgetown.

CALL TO LEARN MORE 202-338-4833

ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2C MONTHLY MEETING TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020 AT 6:30 P.M. John A Wilson Building Room G9 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington DC

TWO APARTMENTS AVAILABLE

One bedroom apartment with fireplace, laundry, north-south exposures, and private entrance renting for $2,065 a month. Year lease required. Another one bedroom apartment renting for $1,770 a month. Year lease required.

(202) 333-5943.

HANDYMAN SERVICES Carpentry Plaster & Drywall Doors/Windows Cabinets/Shelves Counter Tops Painting/Finishing And much more

Over 30 years our craftsmen do quality work: remodeling building or restoring

A Cleaning Service Inc Since 1985

Joel Truitt Builders, Inc. 734 7th St. S.E. (202) 547-2707 QUALITY SINCE 1972

ACE WINDOW CLEANING, CO.

Residential specialists inside and outside. Family owned and operated for over 30 years. 301-656-9274 Chevy Chase, MD • We also offer glass, screen, and sash cord repair service • Ask about our no damage, low pressure Powerwashing.

Residential & Commercial Insured, Bonded, Licenced - Serving DC, VA, MD

703.892.8648 - www.acleaningserviceinc.com

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

17

KITTY KELLEY BOOK CLUB

Martin Tolchin’s ‘Politics, Journalism, and the Way Things Were’ R EVIEWE D BY KIT T Y K E LLE Y Journalists will enjoy this memoir, but anyone who’s suffered a setback or come face to face with failure will profit and take heart. By looking back on his life, Martin Tolchin (known to everyone as Marty) offers a way forward, and not just for those trying to succeed in journalism.

He shows that what it takes to survive and thrive in any profession is courage, which, Winston Churchill said, “is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities … because it is the quality which guarantees all others.”

Tochin begins his book, “Politics, Journalism, and the Way Things Were: My Life at the Times, the Hill, and Politico,” at the beginning, growing up in the Bronx, the only child of progressive parents. Not quite a red-diaper baby, he was enough to the left that he joined a Marxist study group at the Bronx High School of Science.

This — plus attending a Pete Seeger concert and receiving a pamphlet from Katharine Hepburn that began, “I speak because I am an American” — was enough to mark him as a “subversive” during the McCarthy era.

With self-deprecating humor, he writes: “I graduated from Bronx Science by the skin of my teeth.” He had no chance to enroll at an elite East Coast university.

“My college adviser said, ‘We’ll start in Colorado and work our way west.’ That’s how I ended up at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City after a short stint at Idaho State College in Pocatello.”

Following college and law school, he joined the Army, but as a “subversive” he could not practice law unless he named the names of those in his Marxist high school study group. He refused. “So three years of law school went down the drain,” he writes.

In addition, he was given only a general discharge, which marked him for years, until the Supreme Court struck down the Army’s policy of withholding honorable discharges for political activities prior to induction.

Yet there are no bitter recriminations in Tolchin’s narrative, which is suffused with gentle humor, including the time he was in the Army and crept into a darkened Carnegie Hall late one night with a date. Spotting the piano in the middle of the empty stage, he began playing, and the maintenance men, enchanted, began lighting the hall tier by tier.

“When I finished they applauded. I think my uniform prompted their kindness, but the fact is I’ve played Carnegie Hall,” he writes.

After his Army stint, unable to practice

18 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.

law, Tolchin took a two-day course offered by the Veterans Administration titled “How to Get a Job.” He shares the wisdom he learned: First, decide what you enjoy doing; if you do what you love, you’ll never regret working. Then, write no fewer than 100 CEOs of the companies that do the work you want, offering to work in any capacity as long as there’s room for advancement.

Then, initiate — don’t respond — by saying: “May I call your office on (date) to ask for an appointment.”

Tolchin wrote 110 such letters. One of the four responses he received was from the New York Times, where he started as a 25-year-old copyboy. Looking for stories to write, he haunted laundries, churches, police stations and restaurants, always asking: “What’s everybody so upset about in the neighborhood?” Inevitably, he got a good story.

After chasing cops and cons, he landed on the women’s page writing features.

Lured to the newsroom, he could not write under deadline, he admits. So the Times put him on “night rewrite” from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m., and within 18 months he was writing 1,000 words an hour.

Tolchin worked for the paper for 40 years, covering the good and the great. After retiring as a White House correspondent, he started the Hill as a weekly newspaper; it now operates as a U.S. website. Then, at 76, he helped launch Politico, now a global website. Finally, at 92, he’s decided to retire … “for the time being.”

His is a thoroughly delightful book by a writer who puts the smile in likability.

My only carp is with the publisher’s presentation — a skimpy paperback with tiny type, squeezed margins and no photo gallery. It’s like giving someone a cashmere sweater in a sack. The package is unworthy of the present.

Tolchin’s book deserves to take its place in the pantheon of journalistic memoirs with “Growing Up” by Russell Baker, “My Life and the Times” by Turner Catledge, “Personal History” by Katharine Graham, “A Child of the Century” by Ben Hecht, “Letters to the Nation” by Molly Ivins and “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls.

Given the sorry statistics facing journalism today, one wonders about the future of that pantheon, considering the Gallup poll Tolchin cites that shows Americans’ trust in journalism has fallen since 1976, when it was at an all-time high of 76 percent, to an

all-time low of 32 percent.

Tolchin doesn’t analyze what happened in those four decades to cause Americans to lose trust in the media, but he reports an eye-popping political cleavage: the level of trust in the press is 76 percent for Democrats, 42 percent for Independents and 21 percent for Republicans.

Despite these sorry statistics, Tolchin remains an optimist, and in the classes he teaches he encourages students to pursue journalism. “If you’re interested in people and ideas, enjoy constantly learning and want to have an impact on your community, nation and the world, you should seriously consider a career in journalism. It’s given me a great ride.”

The same can be said for his book.

Georgetown resident Kitty Kelley has written several number-one New York Times best-sellers, including “The Family: The Real Story Behind the Bush Dynasty.”

Her most recent books include “Capturing Camelot: Stanley Tretick’s Iconic Images of the Kennedys” and “Let Freedom Ring: Stanley Tretick’s Iconic Images of the March on Washington.”

THREE WEEKS ONLY!

MARCH 11 - MARCH 29

ORDER TODAY!

(202) 399-7993 MOSAICTHEATER.ORG Atlas Performing Arts Center valet Parking available

GOOD WORKS & GOOD TIMES

Real estate executive Marc Duber, Ward 2 Council candidate Brooke Pinto and Shahab Farivar, co-owner of Peacock Cafe and Vintage78. Photo by Robert Devaney.

Developers and designers John and Kristin Cecchi with real estate agent Nancy Taylor Bubes.

Photo by Robert Devaney.

Valentine’s Love for New-Old House

BY RO BE RT DEVA NEY The place sure didn’t look 200. But after the “Latest & Greatest Georgetown Project” by Cecchi Homes, the corner house at 1431 33rd St. NW was ready for its close-up on Feb. 12.

Hosts Nancy Taylor Bubes and John and Kristin Cecchi gave the new-old place a Valentine’s Day party — with some love from their favorite neighbors and friends. (The house was featured in the Feb. 26 issue of The Georgetowner.)

Real estate broker Michael Rankin with Jennifer and David Romm. Photo by Robert Devaney.

Liz Dangio, Phil Dangio, Tim Doyle and Jill Rynkowski Doyle.

Kimberly and Michael Notarianni, Mary and Ron Slimp, Frank Mermoud and Ned Shannon.

Courtesy Hillwood. Photo by Valerie Brown.

Hillwood Romances Its Stones

BY MARY BIRD Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens gave museum supporters a look at “Natural Beauties, Exquisite Works of Mineral and Gems” at a Feb. 13 preview party, “Romancing the Stone.” Tony Cammarota, Michele Hartlove and Kate Evans Lluberes co-chaired the evening. Guests enjoyed various libations, a vodka luge and buffets in the visitor center. A silent auction included such temptations as a 2021 Caribbean cruise on the Sea Cloud and a weeklong stay at a villa in France. Exhibition curator Wilfried Zeisler gave two presentations in the Dacha, where the stones from Hillwood’s collection and loan pieces are on view through June 7.

Indira Gumarova with her husband, Czech Ambassador Hynk Kmoníček. Courtesy Hillwood.

Photo by Valerie Brown.

John Lower, Lauren Massie and Holy Trinity Principal Kevin McShane.

Holy Trinity School Celebrates at Sequoia

BY C H R ISTIN E WAR N KE Olwen Pongrace and Sara O’Keefe. Courtesy Hillwood. Photo by Valerie Brown.

On Leap Day, Feb. 29, Holy Trinity School supporters returned to Sequoia — the Washington Harbour restaurant with floor-to-ceiling views of the Potomac River — along with friends, more than ample food and local-favorite rock band Basement Riot.

GMG, INC.

MARCH 11, 2020

19

202.944.5000

WFP.COM

GEORGETOWN $15,500,000 3210 R St NW, Washington, DC Ellen Morrell 202-365-0196 Jamie Peva 202-258-5050

GEORGETOWN 1224 30TH St NW, Washington, DC Chuck Holzwarth 202-285-2616 Carrie Carter 202-421-3938

KALORAMA $6,750,000 2409 Wyoming Ave NW, Washington, DC Nancy Taylor Bubes 202-386-7813 Ben Roth 202-465-9636

CLEVELAND PARK $5,495,000 3100 35th St NW, Washington, DC Margot Wilson 202-549-2100

PARC SOMERSET $5,500,000 5630 Wisconsin Ave #1403, Chevy Chase, MD Marsha Schuman 301-943-9731

POTOMAC/BRADLEY FARMS $4,998,000 9111 Harrington Dr, Potomac, MD Anne Killeen 301-706-0067

GREAT FALLS $3,985,000 10469 Springvale Meadow Ln, McLean, VA Piper Yerks Gioia 703-963-1363 Penny Yerks 703-760-0744

GREAT FALLS $3,499,000 9694 Mill Ridge Ln, Great Falls, VA Piper Yerks Gioia 703-963-1363 Penny Yerks 703-760-0744

MCLEAN $2,475,000 1233 Ingleside Ave, McLean, Va Piper Yerks Gioia 703-963-1363 Penny Yerks 703-760-0744

GEORGETOWN $2,250,000 3406 N St NW, Washington, DC Anne Hatfield Weir 202-255-2490 Heidi Hatfield 202-258-1919

GEORGETOWN $1,995,000 3612 Reservoir Rd, Washington, DC Chris Itteilag 301-633-8182

SHAW/LOGAN CIRCLE $1,799,000 919 S St NW, Washington, DC Will Prendergast 703-434-2711

GEORGETOWN $1,599,000 3651 Winfield Ln NW, Washington, DC Nancy Itteilag 202-905-7762 Chris Itteilag 301-633-8182

HILLANDALE $1,549,000 3924 Georgetown Ct NW, Washington, DC Cynthia Howar 202-297-6000

GEORGETOWN $1,389,000 3104 N St NW, Washington, DC Chuck Holzwarth 202-285-2616 Carrie Carter 202-421-3938

NEW PRICE KALORAMA $1,695,000 2101 Connecticut Ave NW #25 Washington, DC Cynthia Howar 202-297-6000

BRINGING YOU THE FINEST AGENTS • PROPERTIES • EXPERIENCE

20 MARCH 11, 2020

GMG, INC.