Washington Blade, Volume 54, Issue 42, October 20, 2023

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VOLUME 54 ISSUE 42 ADDRESS PO Box 53352 Washington DC 20009 PHONE 202-747-2077 E-MAIL news@washblade.com INTERNET washingtonblade.com PUBLISHED BY Brown Naff Pitts Omnimedia, Inc. PUBLISHER LYNNE J. BROWN lbrown@washblade.com ext. 8075 EDITORIAL EDITOR KEVIN NAFF knaff@washblade.com ext. 8088 SR. NEWS REPORTER LOU CHIBBARO JR. lchibbaro@washblade.com ext. 8079 WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT CHRIS KANE ckane@washblade.com extg 8083 INTERNATIONAL NEWS EDITOR MICHAEL K. LAVERS mlavers@washblade.com ext. 8093 POP CULTURE REPORTER JOHN PAUL KING PHOTO EDITOR MICHAEL KEY mkey@washblade.com ext 8084 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DANIEL ITAI, EDICIÓN CIENTONCE, QUORUM, WDG, STEPHANIE MONDRAGÓN, ISAAC AMEND , TINASHE CHINGARANDE, DUNIA ORELLANA, REPORTAR SIN MIEDO, PARKER PURIFOY, PETER ROSENSTEIN, MARK LEE, LATEEFAH WILLIAMS, KATE CLINTON, KATHI WOLFE, ERNESTO VALLE, YARIEL VALDÉS GONZÁLEZ, LYNARE ROBBINS, PHILIP VAN SLOOTEN, KATLEGO K. KOLANYANE-KESUPILE, KAELA ROEDER, TREMENDA NOTA, ALBERTO J. VALENTÍN, MAYKEL GONZÁLEZ VIVERO, ORGULLO LGBT. CO, ESTEBAN GUZMAN, ANDRÉS I. JOVÉ RODRÍGUEZ, WINTER HAWK, ISABELLE KRAVIS, CAL BENN CREATIVE DESIGN/PRODUCTION AZERCREATIVE.COM SALES & ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING STEPHEN RUTGERS srutgers@washblade.com ext. 8077 SR. ACCT. EXECUTIVE BRIAN PITTS bpitts@washblade.com ext. 8089 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING/ADMINISTRATION PHILLIP G. ROCKSTROH prockstroh@washblade.com ext. 8092 NATIONAL ADVERTISING RIVENDELL MEDIA 212-242-6863; sales@rivendellmedia.com For distribution, contact Lynne Brown at 202-747-2077, ext. 8075.

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Trans woman found dead in D.C.’s Marvin Gaye Park Police cite possible drug overdose, but victim’s aunt says it was a hate crime

D.C. police are investigating the unexplained death of a 30-year-old transgender woman, Skylar Harrison Reeves, whose partially naked body was found on a park bench in a secluded section of Marvin Gaye Park on Oct. 2.

A Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson told the Washington Blade detectives from the department’s natural death squad are investigating the case as detectives await a determination by the D.C. Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of the cause and manner of death, which could take up to 60 days or more.

“This case remains under investigation, and at this time there is no additional information to provide,” said police spokesperson Elizabeth Grannis.

But Rhonda Hailes, Skylar’s aunt, told the Blade that a homicide detective came to her house in Capitol Heights, Md., where Skylar was living, to inform her that her niece was found deceased in a D.C. park with her belongings missing and the dress she was wearing pulled up over her head, with her breasts exposed.

Hailes said the detective, whose last name she recalls is McWilliams, came to her home on Monday, Oct. 2, shortly after he said her niece’s body was found in a secluded section of Marvin Gaye Park.

The park, which a Blade reporter visited on Oct. 16, consists of a long, narrow wooded area with a creek running in the middle with trees and bushes, park benches, a nature trail, and fitness equipment located throughout the park.

According to Hailes, Det. McWilliams said police think Skylar may have died from a drug overdose, but he didn’t say how police came to that possible conclusion. Hailes said the detective’s graphic description of what he saw after park employees initially found the body and called police leads her to believe her niece did not die from a drug overdose, even though she may have occasionally used drugs.

“Her dress was up over her head off her body, her hand was over her genitals, her breasts were exposed,” Hailes said the detective told her. “I have a history with drugs myself,’ Hailes said. “I’m not bragging about it, but I’ve ODed myself,” she told the Blade, adding that the circumstances

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

SKYLAR HARRISON REEVES was found dead on Oct. 2.

surrounding the body of her niece made it unlikely if not impossible that the cause of death was a drug overdose.

“How was she outside partially naked?” said Hailes.

“How was she there with her dress over her head and her tits exposed and her hand over her genital area? That does not happen when you OD,” she said, adding that someone experiencing an overdose loses consciousness and could not take off their clothes.

“And the way my niece was found, it was a hate crime,” Hailes said, pointing to additional details she said the police detective told her. “Her purse, her phone, her credit cards, all of that stuff was gone.”

And, according to Hailes, the detective also told her investigators could not find any footprints from the tennis shoes Skylar was wearing on the muddy ground along the path leading to where she was found.

As if that were not enough, Hailes said Skylar, who was gainfully employed at the time of her death, never hung out at Marvin Gaye Park, which has a reputation of being a place where transgender sex workers sometimes congregate. She said she went to the park a short time after her niece’s death and showed photos of Skylar to the people who were hanging out in the park. None of them said they recognized Skylar as among those who hang out at Marvin Gaye Park.

“So how did she get there?” Hailes continued, saying she asked the detective if someone might have carried her niece into the park to the site where her body was found. She said the detective would only say the investigation was continuing.

“I’m not saying my niece is perfect,” Hailes said. “Nobody is. But I will stake my life and tell you I know my niece.

My niece never hung out on Division Avenue,” which runs along the border of part of Marvin Gaye Park and is an area where trans sex workers sometimes congregate.

Under longstanding D.C. police protocol, homicide detectives are almost always called to the scene of an unexplained death. But the homicide detectives usually turn over the case to the natural death squad detectives, who continue the investigation until the medical examiner makes a determination of the cause and manner of death.

If the medical examiner rules the death a homicide, then the homicide unit takes over the investigation.

“She has been shunned and persecuted all her life for being who she is,” Hailes said of her niece Skylar. “Yet my niece, she was a beautiful beacon of life. She could have been in the darkest room and shined it bright.”

Transgender activist Iya Dammons, who heads the recently opened D.C. Safe Haven, which provides services to the local trans community as well as to the LGBTQ community, said Safe Haven helped to organize a candlelight vigil in honor of Skylar on Oct. 9 at the entrance to Marvin Gaye Park at the intersection of Division Avenue and Foote Street, N.E. Dammons noted that Skylar’s death is among many deaths of transgender women of color in the D.C. area in recent years, some of which are related to a drug overdose, but others involve anti-trans violence.

“And my thought here is there is an outcry that this is happening, and I don’t think D.C. is actually paying attention to the crisis,” Dammons said.

Like all possible crimes that have yet to be solved, D.C. police ask anyone who has information that may help in their investigation to contact police at 202-727-9099. An anonymous tip can also be sent by text message to the police TEXT TIP LINE at 50411.

Marsha P. Johnson painting donated to Whitman-Walker Pyxis Partners President Michael Manganiello is donating to Whitman-Walker Health a painting of Stonewall activist Marsha P. Johnson that queer artist Gio Black Peter painted.

Manganiello, a gay man who has lived with HIV for nearly 40 years, donated the painting out of commitment to what he described to Whitman-Walker as “health equity,” He went on to say the painting will serve as a “reminder of what is possible when we commit ourselves to justice and equality for all people.”

Whitman-Walker CEO Naseema Shafi said the painting conveys just the right message, stating the imagery “interconnects [Peter and Whitman-Walker’s] work in a deeply meaningful way.”

The painting will be placed in the behavioral health unit of Whitman-Walker’s new Max Robinson Center. Whitman-Walker formally unveiled it on Wednesday.

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New appeal for help in solving 1987 D.C. gay murder case U.S. Navy commander was fatally stabbed outside Chesapeake House gay bar

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

Commander GREGORY PEIRCE was stabbed to death in the first D.C. homicide of 1987. His murder remains unsolved.

involved in the fatal stabbing 36 years ago could be brought to justice.

She said her beloved uncle, who did not openly identify as gay while serving in the Navy, was just a few months away from retiring and being honorably discharged from the Navy.

“My uncle was an incredible man,” Soderlund said in an Oct. 5 phone interview. “We have a very large family,” she said, and family members have long tried to find out exactly what happened and why when Gregory Peirce became D.C.’s first homicide victim of 1987.

Longtime D.C. police homicide Detective Danny Whalen, who is assigned to the homicide unit’s Cold Case Squad, told the Blade last week that the Peirce murder

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case is among the large number of old homicide cases that cannot be solved unless new information surfaces.

“You know, we would love nothing more than to bring these people to justice,” Whalen said of the two unidentified suspects in the Peirce murder. “The detectives who worked the case at the time exhausted everything in their power,” said Whalen. “And if they could have made an arrest, they would have.”

Whalen noted that the two suspects, who witnesses said appeared to be in their 20s, would likely be in their late 50s or early 60s at this time, assuming they are still alive. Whalen and other law enforcement officials have said for investigators to make an arrest in an old case like this, one or more people who know something about the case and who may have known the two suspects need to come forward with information.

Soderlund, Peirce’s niece, said she has reached out to the Blade and may reach out to other news media outlets to draw attention to the case, with the hope that someone reading about it in the press might just come forward with a tip that could lead to an arrest.

“The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for each homicide committed in the District of Columbia,” according to a D.C. police statement issued at the time police announce a new unsolved murder case.

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The family of a 43-year-old gay U.S. Navy commander who was stabbed to death shortly after midnight on Jan. 1, 1987, minutes after he left a D.C. gay bar in a yet unsolved case considered a hate crime, is appealing to the public for help in providing police with a tip that may lead to the identity of two male suspects.

D.C. police at the time of the murder said Commander Gregory Peirce, an Alexandria, Va., resident who served as a staff officer at the Pentagon, was approached by two men appearing to be in their early 20s as he and a man he was with left the Chesapeake House, a gay bar at 946 9th St., N.W. at about 12:15 a.m.

A Washington Blade story published on Jan. 9, 1987, reported that police sources familiar with the investigation said one of the male suspects stabbed Peirce in the chest and neck, then kicked him repeatedly while he lay unconscious at the site of the stabbing in a parking lot behind the Chesapeake House.

The second suspect chased the man who was with Peirce toward the entrance of the bar, slashing the back of the man’s coat with a knife as the man sought help from the Chesapeake House doorman, Tom Vaughn, police sources told the Blade.

A police spokesperson said Peirce was pronounced dead about 90 minutes later at George Washington University Hospital as a result of a severed neck artery, the Blade reported. The man he was with, who told police what he observed, was not injured.

Amanda Soderlund, Peirce’s niece, told the Blade she and her family remain hopeful that the two young men

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 09

Family seeks help in solving 1987 murder of gay man in D.C.

The statement says anyone with information about a case should call police at 202-727-9099. It says anonymous information can be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by sending a text message to 50411.

Although other news media outlets, including the Washington Post, initially reported that police said the motive for the attack against Peirce and his companion appeared to be a robbery gone bad, police sources and witnesses from the Chesapeake House told the Blade the incident appeared to be an anti-gay hate crime or gay bashing.

The man who was with Pierce told police the incident began when the two male suspects approached the two men as they left the Chesapeake House and one of them said, “Wonder if they have any money,” according to an account by the Washington Post.

But the man accompanying Peirce also told police the two attackers never specifically asked for or demanded money. Words were exchanged between the four men in the parking lot and a fight broke out, police sources said, which led to Peirce being stabbed.

At least two police sources said the man who stabbed Peirce had time to search for Pierce’s wallet while Pierce was lying unconscious in the parking lot, but the attacker did not do so.

GREGORY PEIRCE

Instead, the attacker began kicking Pierce repeatedly while he lay motionless and bleeding, one of the police sources told the Blade back in January 1987. “For all practical purposes [Pierce] was dead when this guy was kicking him,” the source said.

In its Jan. 9, 1987, story on the Peirce murder, the Blade reported that experts familiar with anti-gay violence, including police investigators, consider the action by one of the two suspects in the Peirce case who repeatedly kicked Peirce while he lay unconscious as a form of “over kill” often triggered by a deeply held hatred toward and fear of homosexuality.

Chesapeake House employee Michael Sellers told the Blade the week following the murder that a group of young males were yelling anti-gay names, such as “faggot” and “queer,” at several Chesapeake House patrons and another of the bar’s employees when the

patrons and employee stood outside the bar about an hour before Peirce was stabbed.

One of the employees and two of the patrons told the Blade the males who were shouting at them appeared to match the descriptions of the two men who attacked Peirce and the man with Peirce. But homicide detective Whalen told the Blade last week that there is no definitive evidence that the young man who stabbed Peirce was among the group that shouted anti-gay names prior to the stabbing.

The Chesapeake House, which opened sometime in the 1970s and featured nude male dancers, closed in 1992 shortly before its building was demolished to make way for a new high rise office building.

In reviewing the information he is aware of about the case Det. Whalen said that while it appears to be a hate crime, the exact motive of the murder has yet to be confirmed.

“It’s one of those things where it was a street attack,” said Whalen. “Their intentions were never stated,” he said. “However, it was either a hate crime or a street robbery or a combination of both.”

LGBTQ activists at the time said they believed it was a hate crime. And they expressed concern and anger that the news media at the time, other than the Blade, did not report that the stabbing incident took place minutes after Peirce and the man he was with left a gay bar.

In a Jan. 2, 1987, story, one day after the murder took place, the Washington Post reported that Navy officials told Peirce’s brother that Peirce and a group of friends had come to D.C. that night to attend the city’s New Year’s celebration at the Old Post Office building at 12th and Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., which is located about a half mile away from the Chesapeake House.

Other news media accounts left the impression that the murder may have been related to assaults that had taken place among the large crowds of people who turned out for past New Year’s celebrations outside the Old Post Office building.

The Post article reported that police said the stabbing took place in the 900 block of H Street, N.W. and that Peirce and the man he was with had just left a bar that the article did not identify by name.

“The truth was being held back,” Chesapeake House employee Michael Sellers told the Blade.

Soderlund said she and other Peirce family members have speculated that officials with the Navy may have wanted to downplay or hide the fact that a Navy commander who worked at the Pentagon was gay and was attacked after leaving a gay bar.

At that time, under longstanding U.S. military policy, active-duty military members discovered to be gay, lesbian, or bisexual were almost always discharged from the service as potential security risks. The so called ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ policy initiated by President Bill Clinton, which eased the anti-gay policy to a small degree, did not take effect until 1994.

Soderlund told the Blade she and her family members thought there was more to Peirce’s murder than a street robbery, but they had little information to go on until she contacted one of the two Washington Post reporters who wrote the Post’s initial story on the case.

That reporter, John Ward Anderson, who has since re-

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tired, informed her about the Blade’s possible coverage of the story and suggested she contact the Blade.

Anderson told the Blade that the Post was not aware of information by police sources that the murder was a possible hate crime at the time the Post published its initial story on the case. He said the Post would have mentioned the possible anti-gay angle to the case had it known about it.

When Soderlund contacted the Blade, the Blade sent her a copy of the Blade’s Jan. 9, 1987, story, which Soderlund said provided information about the case that she and other family members were not aware of, including information that the murder was likely an anti-gay hate crime.

In yet another development in the ongoing saga of her uncle’s murder, Soderlund said she reached out to Det. Whalen, who gave her the name of the man who was with Peirce at the time of the murder and informed her that the man had died of natural causes in 1994 at the age of 58. In doing an online search, she found a May 1, 1997, Washington Post story about this man, Orrin W. Macleod, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and member of the U.S. Merchant Marines before becoming a ground crew employee at Washington National Airport.

“He never reached out to our family,” Soderlund said. “We never heard from him,” she said, adding that she has long assumed, like her uncle, Macleod was not out as gay and most likely did not want to speak out publicly about the Peirce murder.

But the Post article about him said he became a hero of sorts in Fairfax County shortly before he died of leukemia when he donated most of his life savings and inherited wealth of $1 million to the Fairfax County Public Library.

“The money, at Macleod’s request, will be invested in books on tape, which he used near the end of his life when his vision was impaired,” the Post article states.

Soderlund said it’s her understanding that Fairfax Public Library officials were unaware that the generous donation they received was from a gay man who survived a violent attack that took the life of her uncle.

Shortly after the murder, D.C. police spokesperson Quintin Peterson described one of the men involved in the Peirce murder as being Black, with dark-complected skin, about 5-feet-9 inches tall, slender, with a mustache and wearing dark glasses, a blue knit hat, a dark blue jacket, and dark pants.

Peterson described the second man involved in the murder as being Black with a medium complexion, about 5-feet-9 inches tall, with hair on his chin, and wearing a green coat, a light-colored knit hat, and dark pants.

Police sources said witnesses told police the two attackers calmly walked away from the scene of the crime along H Street, with their whereabouts unknown.

In keeping with longstanding D.C. police policy, a reward of up to $25,000 is offered to anyone providing information leading to an arrest and conviction of persons responsible for a homicide committed in D.C. Anyone with information should contact police at 202-727-9099 or submit an anonymous tip to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by sending a text message to 50411.

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Biden denounces MAGA Republicans at HRC Nat’l Dinner

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden addressed attendees at the Human Rights Campaign National Dinner last Saturday with prepared remarks about the struggle for equality for LGBTQ people in the U.S. and around the world.

“Extreme MAGA Republicans in Congress are trying to undo virtually every bit of progress we’ve made — trying to wipe out federal funding to end the HIV epidemic, strip funding for community venters for seniors, reinstate the ban on transgender troops, ban the Department of Justice from enforcing civil rights laws, ban Pride flags from flying on public land,” the president said.

These lawmakers are trying to interfere with “the right to make your own healthcare decisions, the right to raise your own children,” he said, adding, “I’m never going to stand by and watch families terrorized, doctors and nurses criminalized, or any child targeted for who they are.”

The president relayed that a 13-year-old trans teen wrote to him, sharing how painful it was to see anti-trans legislative activity on the news. A parent wrote to him too, he said, explaining, “I despair for families like mine who have already become refugees inside our own nation” amid the spate of anti-LGBTQ laws.

The president’s remarks also touched on the 25th anniversary of the death of Matthew Shepard, which came on

President JOE BIDEN speaks at the Human Rights Campaign National Dinner on Saturday, Oct. 14. (Blade photo by Michael Key)

Thursday, in an anti-gay hate crime, as well as the terrorist attacks against Israel last weekend.

“Silence is complicity,” the president said, echoing comments he made during a roundtable on anti-semitism on Thursday. Anti-semitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, and transphobia “are all related,” he said, and hate never goes away — it only hides.

The president highlighted his record advancing LGBTQ

rights, from the historic number of LGBTQ appointees serving in the Biden-Harris administration to signage of the Respect for Marriage Act last year to rescinding “the outdated policy of banning gay and bisexual men from donating blood — leading with science, not stigma.”

“Thank you for your courage, thank you for your hope, and thank you for your pride,” the president said. “You’re loved and you’re heard and you’re understood and you belong.”

Taking the stage before the president was First Lady Jill Biden, who told the crowd “I’m so proud that this community has made D.C. such a welcoming home to LGBTQ+ people — from where we came, when outing was used as a political weapon” to now, when “we can celebrate without fear or shame.”

However, the first lady said, “In too many other parts of our country, these rights and freedoms are under attack across the country in places like Texas and Florida and Alabama. LGBTQ individuals don’t have the freedom to be honest with their family, or race, or gender identity at work,” she said.

“So while we celebrate this beautiful community tonight, let’s also remember how lucky we are and harden our resolve to advocate for those who are not.”

CHRISTOPHER KANE

Sharp increase in anti-LGBTQ hate crimes, FBI finds

Compared to 2021 estimates, hate crimes last year that were motivated by bias against the victims’ sexual orientation rose 13.8 percent while those motivated by bias against the victims’ gender identity rose 32.9 percent, according to data from the FBI. The agency’s numbers come from the Uniform Crime Reporting Program, largely through the National Incident-Based Reporting System and the Summary Reporting System, which the FBI says collectively accounts for 93.5 percent of the U.S. population.

Data shows the increases in anti-LGBTQ hate crimes came despite a decrease, by 6.1 percent, of estimated murder and non-negligent manslaughter cases during this same period.

“The rise in hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community is both shocking and heartbreaking, yet sadly, not unexpected,” Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson said in a statement responding to the FBI’s report.

“The constant stream of hostile rhetoric from fringe

anti-equality figures, alongside the relentless passage of discriminatory bills, particularly those targeting transgender individuals, in state legislatures, created an environment where it was sadly foreseeable that individuals with violent tendencies might respond to this rhetoric,” she said.

“The FBI’s data serves as another alarming indicator of the state of emergency our community finds itself in,” Robinson said, adding, “We also know that this data is incomplete, that too many cities and states are reporting incomplete data, or even no data at all, on hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community. If we’re going to bring a stop to that violence, we need a full accounting of just how many hate crimes are taking place – and that requires every jurisdiction stepping up.”

HRC reports that more than 20 percent of reported hate crimes are are now motivated by anti-LGBTQ bias, amid a “horrifying wave” of fatal violence against, particularly, Black transgender women.

The group in June declared a state of emergency for

FBI Director CHRISTOPHER WRAY (Screen capture/NBC News)

LGBTQ people in the U.S., citing, among other factors, the “wave of harmful and discriminatory legislation — some of which was engineered and championed by extremist GOP candidates running for president and their allies — and the concurrent spike in anti-transgender rhetoric and violence.”

CHRISTOPHER KANE

Janet Jackson to headline World AIDS Day concert

Pop icon Janet Jackson will headline the annual World AIDS Day concert sponsored by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation in Houston.

The Dec. 1 event at NRG Arena will feature a fulllength concert from Jackson. In addition, AHF will honor actor and activist Blair Underwood with its lifetime achievement award; choreographer Debbie Allen is slated to speak at the event.

JANET JACKSON will headline a World AIDS Day concert in Houston.

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Jackson is a longtime LGBTQ ally and AIDS activist. Her eighth No. 1 single, “Together Again,” released in 1997, paid tribute to a friend who died of AIDS and honored those lost to the disease.

Underwood co-founded Artists for a New South Africa to direct attention to “the catastrophic impact the disease has had on families and children across the continent,” according to

Billboard. The actor has worked with AHF for years. The Underwood Center in D.C. provides state-of-the-art HIV medical treatment and care and related services for more than 600 patients at its offices at 2141 K St., N.W. “I’m so honored to be receiving this gracious award by AHF,” said Underwood in a statement. “We have had a long-standing partnership in the fight against HIV/AIDS, and there is still more work to be done.”

AHF is the world’s largest nonprofit HIV/AIDS service organization and AIDS advocacy group, with healthcare centers located throughout the U.S. and around the world.

Proceeds from the concert will be used to combat HIV/ AIDS. Tickets are on sale now via TicketMaster.

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LGBTQ Task Force mourns Israeli, Palestinian war victims

southern Israel.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — The executive diPalestinian officials say Israeli airstrikes rector of the National LGBTQ Task Force on have killed more than 2,000 people in Gaza Saturday paid tribute to the civilians killed and injured thousands of others in the enduring the war between Israel and Hamas. clave.

“Witnessing reports of Israel and PalesThe Israeli government’s decision to cut tine are weighing on my soul,” said Kierra electricity, water and food and fuel shipJohnson during her speech at the Task ments to Gaza has made the humanitarian Force’s 50th anniversary gala that took place crisis in the territory even worse. (National at the Miami Beach Convention Center. “My Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday heart is with communities in the region who National LGBTQ Task Force Executive said Israeli officials have told him they have have suffered the pain of terrorism and vioDirector KIERRA JOHNSON speaks at her organization’s 50th anniversary gala restored water to southern Gaza.) The IDF lence and may continue to do so.” in Miami Beach on Oct. 14. has also told the 1.1 million people who live Johnson added that while she does “not (Blade photo by Michael K. Lavers) in northern Gaza to evacuate to the southhave many answers about the conflict, I do ern part of the enclave ahead of an expectknow many people I love, many members ed ground incursion. of the Task Force family and many in this room are deeply imA Wider Bridge — a U.S.-based organization that seeks to build pacted.” “a movement of LGBTQ people and allies with a strong interest “The Task Force condemns terrorism, violence and harm in and commitment to supporting Israel and its LGBTQ commuagainst civilians,” she said. nities” — in 2016 organized a reception at the Task Force’s annual Johnson also led a moment of silence for the “lives shattered Creating Change conference with two Israeli activists who worked and lost in the terror attack by Hamas in Israel and for all those for Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance. Hundreds of impacted who continue to suffer.” protesters with signs that expressed opposition to “pinkwashing,” Hamas, which the U.S. and Israel have designated a terrorist which they described as the promotion of Israel’s LGBTQ rights organization, on Oct. 6 launched a surprise attack against comrecord in an attempt to deflect attention away from its policies munities in southern Israel from the Gaza Strip. toward the Palestinians, and “no pride in apartheid” disrupted the More than 1,300 Israelis have been killed since the war began. event and forced its cancellation.

This figure includes at least 260 people who Hamas militants “I want to make this crystal clear: The National LGBTQ Task murdered at an all-night music festival in Re’im, a kibbutz that Force wholeheartedly condemns anti-Semitism and anti-Semitic is near the border between Israel and Gaza. The Israel Defense statements made at any Task Force event, including our Creating Forces on its website also says more than 3,200 Israelis have been Change Conference,” said then-Executive Director Rea Carey in a injured and Hamas militants kidnapped at least 150 others. statement after the protest. “It is unacceptable.”

Hamas rockets have reached Beersheba, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, MICHAEL K. LAVERS Ben Gurion Airport and other locations throughout central and

House Republicans push to expel Rep. Santos

U.S. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (R-N.Y.) last week said he would introduce a resolution to expel from Congress his embattled gay GOP colleague from New York, U.S. Rep. George Santos.

After D’Esposito announced the plans on X, he told reporters the resolution is backed by the entirety of the state’s freshman Republican House delegation, U.S. Reps. Nick LaLota, Mike Lawler, Marc Molinaro, Nick Langworthy and Brandon Williams.

The congressman’s post cites the “ever-expanding legal case against” Santos, who last week was handed a 23-count superseding indictment by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, which alleges a bevy of financial crimes.

In May, the New York Republicans voted with their GOP colleagues to refer allegations of malfeasance against Santos to the House Ethics Committee.

Earlier, the Long Island-based ex-campaign treasurer for Santos, Nancy Marks, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit offenses against the U.S., which included wire fraud, falsifying records, and identity theft.

Santos responded by proclaiming “I look very much forward to seeing the anti American attempt by WEAK RINO’s to oust me without giving me my right to Due process.”

CHRISTOPHER KANE

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Activist remains in southern Israel as war continues

An activist in southern Israel late last week said she knows at least five people who have died during her country’s war with Hamas militants.

“It’s just horror and shock,” former Be’er Sheva Pride House Chair Ariella Menaker told the Washington Blade during an emotional WhatsApp interview. “They were fucking civilians.”

Beersheba, which is the largest city in southern Israel, is located roughly 25 miles southeast of the Gaza Strip.

Hamas, which the U.S. and Israel have designated a terrorist organization, on Oct. 6 launched a surprise attack against communities in southern Israel from Gaza.

More than 1,300 Israelis have been killed since the war began. This figure includes at least 260 people who Hamas militants murdered at an all-night music festival in Re’im, a kibbutz that is near the border between Israel and Gaza.

The Israel Defense Forces on its website also says more than 3,200 Israelis have been injured and Hamas militants kidnapped at least 150 others.

Hamas rockets have reached Beersheba, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Ben Gurion Airport and other locations throughout central and southern Israel.

The Gaza Health Ministry says Israeli airstrikes have killed 1,537 people and injured 6,612 others in the enclave.

The Israeli government’s decision to cut electricity, water and food and fuel shipments to Gaza has made the humanitarian crisis in the territory even worse. Media reports indicate the IDF has told the U.N. the 1.1 million people who live in northern Gaza should evacuate to the southern part of the enclave within 24 hours.

Menaker said she received an invitation to attend one of the music festival’s parties.

“It’s a close-knit group,” she told the Blade. “Even people you don’t know by name; you’ve partied with them; you know them. You’ve known them for years from the dance floor.”

“I keep thinking about them, trying to escape,” added Menaker.

Menaker lived in Sderot, a town that is less than a mile from Gaza, until she and her family moved to Beersheba when she was 10.

She was at home in Beersheba on Oct. 7 when air raid sirens woke her up shortly after 6:30 a.m. local time (11:30

p.m. ET on Oct. 6.) Menaker told the Blade she was in her pajamas when she grabbed her cats and took shelter near a set of stairs that are away from windows. She said the door to the bomb shelter near her home did not close because someone had previously broken into it.

Former Pride House Be’er Sheva Chair ARIELLA MENAKER (Courtesy photo)

“I just stayed at home with the cats in an enclosed area near the stairs, as safe as I can be,” said Menaker.

She told the Blade she had COVID-19 a couple of weeks ago and was worried that she would spread the virus to other people with whom she was sheltering. Menaker said this fear made her decide to stop going to the shelter.

“You’re literally under bombs and Hamas people are in the streets, so who’s thinking about a mask,” she recalled.

“I was there with everybody, no masks, just thinking it’s another bombing and there will be another fucking operation they’ll call it instead of a war and that situation will continue.”

Menaker said people in southern Israel had “gotten accustomed to sirens and bomb threats.”

“We’ve gotten used to the so-called small assaults (against Hamas in Gaza), like every now and then we go to the shelter,” she told the Blade. “We’ve come to trust the Iron Dome, so we’re not as scared as we were before because there’s less direct hits, and we’re used to it and that’s horrific.”

Menaker also told the Blade she feels “sorry for the people living in Gaza.”

“I hate Hamas, don’t get me wrong,” she said. “Hamas hates me and wants everybody dead … but the people itself living in Gaza, I mean I feel sorry for them.”

Menaker said she and her family visited Gaza on weekends — and people who lived in the enclave traveled to Israel — before then-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s government withdrew Israeli forces from the territory in 2005.

“There’s always been tension,” said Menaker. “What’s happening now has been my personal nightmare and fear since the separation since 2005.”

Advocacy groups across Israel have rallied to support those who the war has directly impacted. Hasan Kilani, a Jordanian Palestinian queer activist, and myriad others have urged Israel not to target Gazan civilians.

“There’s no justification for war crimes and crimes against humanity,” Menaker told the Blade, referring to the Hamas militants who murdered Israeli civilians. “There’s no way to justify going into a town and house by house killing everybody inside.”

She said “all of the people here in Israel” are “trying to help out with everything” that include offers to house those who have evacuated to Beersheba and other cities and collect food and toys for them.

Menaker spoke to the Blade from the home of a friend who is in the IDF reserves. She was babysitting his dog and taking him out for walks.

“That’s a little something we can do,” said Menaker.

Doctors had prescribed Menaker medicinal marijuana in order to treat post-traumatic stress disorder. She began to smoke it a few minutes after she started to speak with the Blade.

“People are dealing with a lot,” said Menaker.

Editor’s note: Menaker sent the Blade this update on Friday at 7:43 a.m. (9:43 p.m. PT on Thursday) “Last night there was a barrage of rockets to Beersheba just as we finished packing and sending off food packages for families that were rescued. Running to the bomb shelter and seeing rockets above, and than just continuing shutting down and going home to a community Zoom.

One or two people didn’t join because of anxiety, the rest just kept on. Which is good, to keep on, but I guess that’s what I mean when I say we got used to it.”

MICHAEL K. LAVERS

Indian Supreme Court rules against marriage equality

The Indian Supreme Court of India on Tuesday issued its long-awaited marriage equality ruling.

A five-judge constitutional bench led by Chief Justice Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud in a 3-2 verdict against recognizing the constitutional validity of samesex marriages in India. The country’s top court said Parliament must decide whether to extend marriage rights to same-sex couples.

The Supreme Court recognized the court cannot make laws, but can only interpret them.

Chandrachud at the beginning of the ruling said the doctrine of separation of powers means that each of the three branches of the state performs a distinct function and therefore no other branch can function any other’s function. Chandrachud mentioned Section 4 of the Special Marriage Act is unconstitutional because it is not sufficiently inclusive. The Supreme Court said either the Special Marriage Act needs to be struck down or read

down.

The Supreme Court recognized that if the Special Marriage Act is struck down, it will take the country to the pre-independence era.

“If the court takes the second approach and reads words into the Special Marriage Act, it will be taking up the role of the legislature,” said Chandrachud. “The court is not equipped to undertake such an exercise of reading meaning into the statute.”

The Special Marriage Act of 1954 is a law with provisions for civil unions for Indians and Indian nationals who live abroad, regardless of religion or faith followed by either party. The Special Marriage Act allows people of two different religions to marry.

Section 4 has some provisions: Neither of the parties should have a living spouse, both parties should be capable of giving consent and should be mentally competent at the time of marriage and the parties shall not

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be within the prohibited degree of relations under their law. The male party must be at least 21-years-old and the female party must be at least 18-years-old.

Chandrachud noted the court must be careful not to enter into the legislative domain. Chandrachud said Parliament must decide whether a change to the Special Marriage Act is needed.

“The right to enter into a union includes the right to choose one’s partner and the right to recognition of that union,” said Chandrachud. “A failure to recognize such associations will result in discrimination against queer couples.”

Chandrachud said that for the full enjoyment of such relationships, such unions need recognition and there cannot be denial of basic goods and services. The state can indirectly infringe upon freedom if it does not recognize the same.

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Gay Prince Eddy, Kind, Caring, Un�it to Murder 20 Million

(Part 7 in a series)

TRINICE IYA FABUNMI MCNALLY is founding director of the UDC Center for Diversity, Inclusion & Multicultural Affairs.

Centering Black figures this LGBTQ history month Institutions have erased queer contributions for far too long

LGBTQ History Month is commemorated annually both nationally and globally each October. It is a critical tool to honor, share, and teach Black queer history, as it’s rarely included in academic curricula, cultural organizations, or institutional priorities.

There are many reasons why this continues to occur. However, as a Black queer educator who works and is an alumnus of an HBCU, it’s critical to name the erasure and invisibility of Black LGBTQ historical figures who attended and worked at our D.C. Black institutions. Washington, D.C., is considered one of the best places for LGBTQ people to live. But which people are we talking about? Are Black and Brown people centered in that narrative? Are working-class queer folks centered in that narrative?

For far too long, institutions and organizations have erased the contributions and plight of LGBTQ people. A critical way to address this problem is to make history accessible and digestible. A litany of people whose names we may never know have significantly contributed to our culture and pushed institutions to be more inclusive and equitable through their existence and work. They deserve recognition and their queer experiences to be centered, not just their accolades.

This is crucial when considering LGBTQ History Month; we can start with one of our own. Essex Hemphill attended the University of the District of Columbia and the University of Maryland and studied English. He is one of the most celebrated Black, openly gay performance poets of his generation and is recognized in LGBTQ communities across the U.S. and abroad. He is best known for his political stance in his work, as he openly addressed race, gender identity, sexual experiences, HIV/AIDS, and the Black family. The UDC Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Multicultural Affairs (CDIMA) has created a scholarship to support LGBTQ+ students in his honor. It leads an archiving project to restore and amplify his legacy in the DMV by taking our students to the Library of Congress and researching our institution’s archives.

As we commemorate LGBTQ History Month, it’s important to honor our own and take time to learn about their contributions and experiences. This LGBTQ History Month, I challenge you to do a little research of your own. Who are the LGBTQ creatives, artists, educators, and founders in your community? How are you honoring their legacy and sharing it with others?

There’s power in speaking their names and celebrating their memories. HBCUs also have a critical role in leading this archival work. D.C. specifically has a responsibility to amplify the stories of its leaders who lived and worked here in the birthplace of Black LGBTQ Pride, as the nature of its transience, mobility, and cultural organizing in this city is deeply connected to those who have done it before.

“I believe the significance of OUTLOUD Day on HBCU campuses is to promote inclusivity and allow queer identifying folks to live in their truth on HBCU campuses.” — Kee’Manee Carter (Kiburi Scholarship recipient 2023) “I live OUTLOUD! Living OUTLOUD for me is living in my truth! Live in your truth as well! — Corey Haskett (Kiburi Scholarship recipient 2023) 2 2 • WA SHIN GTO N BLADE.COM • OCTOBER 20 , 2 0 2 3 • V I E WP O I NT

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PETER ROSENSTEIN

is a longtime LGBTQ rights and Democratic Party activist. He writes regularly for the Blade.

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One week until I fly to Rome and feeling some guilt Conflicted emotions as Israel and Ukraine fight on

A week from now I will fly to Rome. I will spend two days there, and then join friends to board the Celebrity BEYOND, for a two-week transatlantic cruise back to Ft. Lauderdale. I admit there are some guilty feelings about living my best life while there is so much turmoil and suffering in the world while people are dying in wars in Israel to defend a nation I stand with, and another in Ukraine.

I have connected with friends in Israel who are mourning the loss of some of their friends, killed by Hamas terrorists. I continue to write about Ukraine and the heroes fighting for their country, and in essence for the rest of the western world, against Putin. They are fighting a proxy war for us, along with fighting for their own country.

Now if only the Republican Party, and even some left-wing Democrats, would get their heads out of their asses and understand that.

The guilt comes from continuing to live my best life while all this is going on. I know there is not much I can do about it even if I stayed home. I will continue to write my columns, and donate to charities in support of the people in Ukraine and Israel. I continue to look for, and hope you do as well, a charity to help the innocent Palestinian children suffering because of Hamas.

One charity I have contributed to at the recommendation of friends in Israel is Magen David Adom. Another is a charity set up by my friends, the Bilak brothers, who I first met on a Celebrity APEX cruise. During the first eight months of the war they were living in Kharkiv with their family when the bombing began. Together with friends they began a charity to help seniors, those with disabilities, children, and even helping to import medicines and food for animals who were suffering. The easiest way to donate is through PayPal. I know it works as I have donated using this email zadelo.kh.ua@gmail.com.

Despite my qualms I will leave for Rome as scheduled, if other world events don’t prevent that. I will then board the ship with nearly 100 friends, and hope to enjoy it.

Contrary to some others onboard, I will stay connected throughout the trip. Celebrity ships are now connected by Starlink to the Internet. My only regret is that Starlink is owned by Elon Musk, but not much I can do about that.

I intend to do what I always do when I am on a cruise, and share my experiences in a blog. You will be able to read it at the Washington Blade’s website. I will be interviewing the captain of the ship, and other members of the crew, many like the Bilak brothers, are from Ukraine with family still there. So, I won’t totally leave the world behind and I am sure neither will many others. Another important event I will be following from the ship is the election for the legislature in Virginia. The results could be an indication of how Democrats will do in the 2024 election for president and Congress. So some of the conversation over meals will definitely be about world events.

In advance of my trip, I have emailed with the new ambassador to Italy, Jack Markell, and am hoping he may be in Rome the weekend I am. I first met Ambassador Markell when he was governor of Delaware. He is one of the great choices made by the Biden administration to be ambassadors. It would be interesting to get his views on what is happening in the world.

Clearly, we live in difficult times. But we are not the first generation to do so, and we will survive this. At least we have the chance to, if the Republicans in Congress will stop acting like schoolchildren, instead of lawmakers responsible for the country. Their actions confirm for me why I vote for Democrats. I hope by the time you read this they will have gotten their act together enough to agree on a Speaker, or at least to vote for a temporary Speaker, so bills on funding assistance to Israel and Ukraine can be voted on. They also need to vote on a budget to keep the government open.

Republicans must know the world is watching their outrageousness to see if the most powerful country in the world can actually function.

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JODY BOULAY

is a mother of two with a passion for helping others. She works as a Community Outreach Coordinator for Addicted.org to help spread awareness of the dangers of drugs and alcohol.

Drug education can prevent some opioid overdoses October is National Substance Use Prevention Month

October marks National Substance Use Prevention Month, making it an ideal time to ramp up overdose prevention messaging. Amid the ongoing opioid epidemic, prevention messaging has become critical to saving lives.

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are the leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States. Local drug education and prevention campaigns and organizations play a vital role. However, some critical prevention messaging should be on repeat and reach LGBTQ communities and every community across the nation.

Most people would agree that the opioid epidemic began with overprescribing legal pain medication like OxyContin. Pharmaceutical companies used deceptive marketing and advertising of their products being safe and effective. As a result, countless people became addicted and died of an overdose.

Since the 1990s, the opioid epidemic has gone in waves, beginning with prescription opioids, followed by a strong resurgence in heroin and now illicitly manufactured synthetic opioids. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation.

The border closures and supply chain disruptions meant more drug users were turning to local unknown supplies of drugs. The lockdowns and social isolation resulted in countless people dying alone of an overdose and many others having no access to treatment or support.

The LGBTQ population is disproportionately affected by substance use disorders and has higher rates of misusing prescription pain medication. Data has shown a three times greater risk of developing an opioid use disorder.

Some critical overdose prevention messaging should be on repeat and reach every community. For instance, fentanyl is found in drugs like counterfeit pain medications made to look like the real thing. These illegal pills are sold on social media platforms, and drug dealers use code words and emojis to advertise products.

Fentanyl is also found in cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and other illicit substances. Other messaging should speak about the increased risk of overdose when mixing drugs. Mixing opioids with other depressants significantly slows breathing.

Fortunately, Naloxone is a life-saving medication that should be made known to everyone. Naloxone is available in all 50 states without a prescription.

Finally, people in treatment and recovery need support to break down the barriers attached to addiction. Showing compassion for people who use drugs and offering support during their treatment and recovery journey are the best ways to remove stigma from the equation.

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118 Bay Avenue, Lewes Beach, DE | MLS: DESU2049816 | $2,900,000

33269 Horseshoe Court, Lewes, DE | MLS: DESU2049870 | $1,799,900

OVER 9,000 SQ FT OF BEACHFRONT PROPERTY!

Take a front-row seat to panoramic sunsets, sea breezes, beach dunes and the Delaware Bay with this early 1900s beachfront home in Lewes Beach. With gentle use and renovations over the years this property holds good bones to those who want to create their very own historical beach getaway space, or take this landmark location to build their very own new beach home.

STUNNING ONE OF A KIND CAPSTONE HOME!

The Hannah Model is the exquisite coastal property you’ve been looking for. Currently the only active listing in the highly sought after community of Showfield, this 6 bedroom, 3.5 bath home was built in 2020 on a premium lot overlooking the Breakwater Junction Trail. Features include LVP hardwood floors, first floor primary bedroom with en-suite custom bath, gas fireplace featuring ship lab design and so much more! Less than 1 mile to the beaches, downtown Historic Lewes, Cape Henlopen State Park.

RIGHT PAGE

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Best Of LGBTQ D.C. 2023

Blade readers voted and here are your favorites in food, nightlife, and more It’s that time of year again when we pause to celebrate the best of our exceptional local LGBTQ community, from food to activism to religion.

This year’s Local Hero award goes to the tireless Brent Minor for his many years of service to the community and his efforts to expand LGBTQ acceptance in sports. D.C. is bucking the trend of queer bars closing, as the city saw several new venues open this year. And our awards aren’t limited to D.C.; we’ve again included numerous categories from Rehoboth Beach.

More than 4,000 nominations and 30,000 votes were cast in more than 60 categories for the 22nd annual Best Of awards. The Blade’s Stephen Rutgers coordinated the process. Michael Key served as photo editor for the project. This year’s contributing writers are Patrick Folliard, Tinashe Chingarande, Lou Chibbaro Jr., Evan Caplan, Kaela Roeder, Cal Benn, Michael K. Lavers, and Kevin Naff. Congratulations to all of the nominees, finalists, and winners.

Thank you to our sponsors ABSOLUT, PEPCO, Shakers, Heineken, and Infinite Legacy.

Local Hero Brent Minor served as longtime leader in D.C. LGBTQ sports

Team DC founder credited with helping to launch Pride Night Out events

By LOU CHIBBARO JR. | lchibbaro@washblade.com

BRENT MINOR is the Blade’s choice for the 2023 Local Hero honoree. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

The selection this month by Washington Blade staff of Brent Minor as the 2023 recipient of the Local Hero Award comes a short time after Minor announced he was stepping down from his longtime position as executive director of Team DC, the D.C.-area LGBTQ sports organization.

“After more than 20 years of leading Team DC, first as its board president and then as the executive director, I have decided it is time to move on and retire from this part of my life,” Minor said in a Facebook announcement.

“It has been a joy and a privilege to establish and grow this organization over the years and help make sports a more welcoming place for all participants,” he stated.

Minor has been credited with helping Team DC become one of the nation’s largest LGBTQ sports organizations, which currently includes more than 40 LGBTQ or LGBTQ-supportive sports teams or sports leagues as affiliated members.

FROM STAFF REPORTS Under Minor’s direction, Team DC established the annual D.C. area Pride Night Out events in which about a dozen D.C. professional sports teams welcome LGBTQ sports fans to their respective stadiums or arenas to support the team and celebrate LGBTQ Pride during a home game.

Among the teams that work with Team DC to host the Pride Night Out games are the Washington Nationals baseball team, the Washington Wizards basketball team, the Washington Commanders football team, and the Washington Capitals hockey team.

The highlight of this year’s Pride Night Out at the Washington Nationals in June involved Minor and other Team DC officials joining former Speaker of the U.S. House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), who threw the ceremonial “first pitch” to open the game as Nationals players and fans cheered loudly.

Minor has also played a lead role in helping Team DC establish its annual Team DC College Scholarship Program, which awards college bound LGBTQ high school student athletes $2,000 scholarships to support their college education.

“While it is great to host 12 Pride Night Out events annually, we want to work with our pro teams to make sure that they are fully supportive of LGBTQ issues and not just when they want to sell tickets,” Minor said in a 2019 guest column in the Washington Blade in explaining Team DC’s ongoing mission.

In discussing the role of Team DC’s more than 40 LGBTQ sports teams or leagues, Minor said, “The presence of healthy and well-organized sports clubs in D.C. helps make our LGBTQ community stronger and more stable. For many participants, their team adds a dimension to their life that a job or home just cannot fill.”

Minor, an Alexandria, Va., resident who is originally from Charlotte, N.C., has been involved with several LGBTQ-related causes and organizations prior to and during his early years with Team DC., according to a write-up of his professional experience he provided to the Blade.

He served from 2000 to 2005 as a member of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS during the administration of President Bill Clinton, who appointed him, and President George W. Bush. He served twice as chair of the D.C. Bid Committee seeking to have D.C. become host in 2014 and 2022 for the Gay Games, the quadrennial international LGBTQ sports competition. The two bids were unsuccessful. He also served on the Gay Games Board of Directors from 2002 to 2008.

Minor served from 1996 to 2000 as Director of Community Relations and Public Funding for Food and Friends, the D.C.-based nonprofit organization that delivers food and provides other services to homebound people with HIV/AIDS and other illnesses. He served from 2006 to 2008 as Community Relations Director for the Whitman-Walker Clinic of Northern Virginia.

David Perruzza, owner of the D.C. gay sports bars Pitchers and A League of Her Own, which have worked with Team DC to help arrange for the sale of tickets to Pride Night Out games, expressed what appears to reflect the sentiment of many local LGBTQ sports enthusiasts of the work of Minor and Team DC. “What an amazing night at Night Out with the Nationals,” Perruzza said in a June 6 Facebook post reflecting on the Night Out at the Nationals. “Congratulations Team

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DC for putting on the event of the year and Brent Minor and your crew,” Perruzza wrote.

“You are appreciated more than you will ever know,” he stated. “I hope the community respects and realizes what an amazing individual you are.”

Blade Editor Kevin Naff echoed Perruzza’s sentiments in explaining the Local Hero award, which is the only Best Of award selected by Blade staff.

“The Blade’s Local Hero honorees reflect the very best of our community,” said Naff. “Brent’s tireless devotion to LGBTQ causes has opened many doors along with hearts and minds. The community owes him our tremendous gratitude.”

In accepting the honor, Minor told the Blade, “I’m incredibly honored to be recognized for this award.”

EATING & DRINKING

Best Coffee Shop: Three Fifty Bakery and Coffee Bar 1926 17th St., N.W. Editor’s Choice: Tatte Bakery & Café

Gay-owned Three Fifty takes home the top spot this year, dethroning Compass after a five-year run. The bakery has been in operation for 10 years on 17th Street, but is set to move to larger locale nearby on (Photo courtesy of Hopper) R Street. The neighborhood spot sells carb-forward specialties like scones, croissants, quiche, breads, muffins, and cookies, as well as coffee drinks. Owner Jimmy Hopper in a recent Blade article says that he first envisioned a cake shop but quickly realized the area needed a bakery and coffeeshop.

Best Outdoor Dining: Hank’s Oyster Bar Wharf 701 Wharf St., S.W. Editor’s Choice: Le Diplomate

Neighborhood institution Hank’s Oyster Bar scoops up this award for its alfresco option on the Wharf. In October of 2017, lesbian chef and restaurateur Jamie Leeds opened Hank’s Oyster Bar on (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) the Wharf, building on her wildly successful original Hank’s in Dupont (there is another in Alexandria). The sweeping vistas pair especially well with oysters and lobster rolls. Another of Leeds’s spots, Hank’s Cocktail Bar, is a two-time winner of the Blade’s “Best Craft Cocktails” award.

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At Barrie School, we acknowledge the dignity and worth of every individual, honor and celebrate the uniqueness of each other, and recognize that differences within our community and the broader world are an important source of enrichment and interpersonal growth.

Ask about our Millennium Scholarship & Fall Expeditions for Grades 6-12!

Where everyone can feel a deep sense of belonging...

Admission Open House Saturday, October 21

3 Months to Grade 12 Thank You, Readers! Barrie School is honored to be named Best Private School in the Best of LGBTQ DC Readers’ Choice Awards, third year in a row!

3 Months to Grade 5 | 9:00 – 10:15am Grades 6-12 | 11:00am – 12:15pm RSVP: barrie.org/admission Following Open House, bring the whole family and join us at our annual Fall Festival.

Free admission for all ages! 1 to 4 pm.

Now accepting applications for the 2024-25 school year

13500 Layhill Road • Silver Spring, MD \ Bus Transportation & Extended Day Available \ admission@barrie.org • 301.576.2800

barrie.org

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued

Best Local Brewery: DC Brau

3178-B Bladensburg Rd., N.E. Editor’s Choice: Denizens Brewing Co.

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Best Restaurant: Crazy Aunt Helen’s 713 8th St., S.E. Editor’s Choice: Beau Thai

Owner Shane Mayson’s flamboyant restaurant Crazy Aunt Helen’s takes home this coveted award for the second year in a row – and it’s only been open two years.

“To be receiving this attention makes us feel like we are on the right path,” said Mayson last year. “We serve American comfort food that we hope will make everyone feel like they’ve been given a big hug,” says Mayson, who plates American food with a twist. Appetizers include items like fried green tomatoes, and entrees include chicken fried steak smothered in chicken sausage gravy.

Many dishes are vegan and vegetarian. The restaurant is a supporter of several LGBTQ organizations, and hosts a range of events, including drag shows, book readings, a ladies’ tea dance, play readings, bingo, and more.

Taking back the top spot (DC Brau won this category in 2021), DC Brau was the first business to bring back D.C.-brewed beer as part of the recent beer resurgence. DC Brau founders Brandon Skall and Jeff Hancock opened (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) in 2011, now serving beers and hard seltzers.

DC Brau holds the annual Pride Pils fundraiser to benefit SMYAL and the Blade Foundation. This year, DC Brau kicked off Pride with a party at fellow winner Red Bear Brewing with a party celebrating its Pride Pils.

Best Local Distillery: Cotton & Reed 1330 5th St., N.W. Editor’s Choice: District Made

Best Brunch: Red Bear Brewing Drag Brunch

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Last year’s Editor’s Choice won this year. Co-founders Reed Walker and Jordan Cotton became friends while working as strategists for NASA and the aerospace industry, turning a passion into a business. The distillery aims to learn from the best practices of the world’s rum producers to create a line of distinctively American rums.

All fermentation, distillation, processing, and bottling is done on-site at the Cotton & Reed Distillery in Northeast DC’s Union Market District.

They make a full line of rums, from white to gold to dark to coconut and spiced options.

Having taken home the Best Neighborhood Bar and Best Local Brewery awards last year, Red Bear Brewing now is awarded with Best Brunch. This gay-owned venue in the District hosts drag shows, trivia, and stand-up performances, among other events. It pours beers with suggestive titles like “Hefe Don’t Preach,” “OktoBEARfest,” or “Tall, Dark and Nutty,” to name a few. Its festive drag brunch, running monthly, pulls out all the stops with its themes, like Broadway, Chromatica Ball, and goth. Desiree Dik serves as host.

Best Ice Cream/Gelato: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams 1925 14th St., N.W. (Multiple locations) Editor’s Choice: Ice Cream Jubilee

Located on 14th Street, and often with a line around the corner, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has a “uniquely smooth texture and buttercream body” in flavors like birthday cake and fruit crumble. It scooped up the (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) award last year, as well.

There are also locations in Arlington, Alexandria, Bethesda, Navy Yard, Yards Park, and McLean.

Best Pizza: Andy’s Pizza 808 V St., N.W. (Multiple locations) Editor’s Choice: 2 Amys

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

209 M St., N.E. Editor’s Choice: Homme Brunch

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

bunch of lists, from Zagat to the Washington Post. Besides its famed Proper Burger, it also has a salmon, Impossible, and Wagyu burger. The Dupont location is currently closed for renovations.

Best Burger: Duke’s Grocery 1513 17th St., N.W. Editor’s Choice: Ghostburger

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

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The 2021 winner Duke’s Grocery serves burgers with a British accent. With locations in Dupont Circle, Woodley Park, Navy Yard, and Foggy Bottom, this restaurant serves guests hearty portions of bar food. The burger has landed it on a whole

In the New York tradition, Andy’s Pizza serves up pizza from stone deck ovens made of long-fermented dough, Wisconsin mozzarella, and California tomatoes. Andy’s boasts seven spots across the area, including one in Shaw near popular bars

Dirty Goose, Kiki, and Shakers.

The pizzeria serves slices in favorite options like pepperoni and white sauce, but the whole pies come in a range of flavors, including a Buffalo crispy chicken and a vegan pie with plant-based cheese.

“I am a local, born and bred in the DMV,” says Andy Brown, owner and head pizzaiolo, after winning last year.

“The D.C. community is a melting pot of the global stage, and winning an award as a local always feels like a victory for our local community. We were thrilled to even be considered, and over the moon to win!”

Best Outdoor Drinking: Pitchers 2317 18th St., N.W. Editor’s Choice: Dacha Beer Garden

Winner of the 2021 Best Neighborhood Bar, Pitchers launched in 2018 and bills itself as “a sports bar/restaurant for the LGBTQIA+ community where all are welcome.”

The sprawling building features several different (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) spaces with distinct atmospheres, plenty of flat screens for sports fans, darts, video games, a dance floor, a subterranean lesbian bar, and two patios. The bar often plays host to drag performances, including appearances

by RuPaul Drag Race contestants.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Best Drag Queen: Evry Pleasure

voluminous long hair units adorned with colorful flowers to floor-length gowns that accentuate her Coke-bottle curves, Gigi proves that ostentatious is the beacon of topnotch performance art.

@evrypleasure Runner-up: Sasha Adams Sanchez

Best Bartender: Wyatt Warnick, Uproar

This award-winning D.C. queen is a mix between pageantry, comedy, and dancing who delivers shows filled with energy, laughter, and glamour. At this year’s D.C. Drag Awards, she scooped up the awards for best drag queen and best at large. Last year, she was named Red Bear Brewing Co.’s Miss Slay Them.

639 Florida Ave., N.W. Runner-up: Andrew Bunting, JR’s

A quick Google search will show you that Wyatt Warnick is a well-known D.C. bartender with a following of more than 18,000 on Instagram.

The burly bartender has a gaze that makes you feel welcome and at home. His Instagram ex(Photo courtesy Warnick) plains his popularity with D.C.’s bar patrons as it’s filled with shirtless shots and shower selfies. Blade readers responded with a resounding “Woof.”

Best Neighborhood Bar: Duplex Diner

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Best Drag King: Molasses @kingmolasses Runner-up: Flirty Rico

In a Vox explainer video, King Molasses described themselves as “the sweetest, stickiest drag king you’ll ever meet.” Molasses fuses different elements of traditional Nigerian fashion with a southern cowboy aesthetic to deliver electric performances that leave guests salivating for more.

Best Drag Show: Con Acento at JR.’s 1519 17th St., N.W. jrsbar-dc.com Editor’s Choice: Red Bear’s Drag Bingo

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Since 1986, JR.’s has been serving some of the city’s best cocktails. And it hasn’t lost its touch when it comes to invigorating dance parties. Con Acento, a Latinx monthly dance party, features the hottest hits that’ll have hips swaying and hands elegantly slicing the air.

Best LGBTQ Bar: Little Gay Pub 1100 P St., N.W. thelittlegaypub.com Editor’s Choice: Shakers

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Best Transgender Performer: Gigi Paris Couture @gigipariscouture Runner-up: Baphomette

It’s hard to miss Gigi Paris Couture when her glamour is so apparent even her eyes glisten with opulence. From

club soda before taking a bathroom selfie.

Its owners are business partners Dito Sevilla, longtime bartender and bar manager at Dito’s Bar located inside Floriana Restaurant on 17th Street near Dupont Circle; Dusty Martinez, former general manager at the nearby gay bar Trade; and Benjamin Gander, former general manager of the other nearby gay bar Number 9.

“Little Gay Pub aims to fill the needs of the LGBTQ community by offering a new and upscale drinking and snacking venue,” the owners said in a statement when the bar opened earlier this year.

Despite being one of the newest gay bars on the block, Little Gay Pub has proven that it’s on its way to becoming a mainstay in the city. Besides winning this award in its first year in business, the bar has made a name for (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) itself, welcoming elite patrons, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who reportedly ordered a

2004 18th St., N.W. duplexdiner.com Editor’s Choice: Number Nine

What better place to cure your Sunday hangover than at Duplex Diner where the menu features hearty food options like a Belgian waffle that comes with fresh berries and whipped cream or the buttermilk biscuit oozing (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) with sausage gravy? Duplex Diner is the place where you can “come pull up a chair” and enjoy the simplest of moments with friends and family.

Best Happy Hour presented by ABSOLUT: Kiki

915 U St., N.W. dcwannahaveakiki.com Editor’s Choice: Annie’s Paramount Steakhouse

Kiki undoubtedly has the smartest name on the street, and along with it some of the most fun events. This bar in Shaw neighborhood hosts weekly drag shows and a dance floor where guests can let loose and break (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) out their best dance moves. Kiki has four different bar areas including a beer garden and a sportsthemed bar area.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued Best LGBTQ-Friendly Bar: Dacha Beer Garden

Best Theater Production: “seven methods of killing kylie jenner”

The name on everyone’s lips when you mention beer is Dacha! This locals favorite has an open plan that makes it easy to guzzle a beer, or two, or three, with (Photo courtesy Designing the District) family and friends, and meet plenty of likeminded people doing the same. Above all, its menu is affordable with brunch drinks offered at $5 each and weekly eats at $10 each.

Once again, Woolly Mammoth Theatre continues to remain No. 1 with Blade readers.

Directed by Milli Bhatia, playwright Jasmine Lee-Jones’ two hander “seven (Photo courtesy Woolly Mammoth Theatre) methods of killing kylie jenner” has proved beloved by the fans. It’s about a lot of things, but murder really isn’t one of them.

Beneath heated discussions of white-skinned privilege, queerness, and body shaming, it’s mostly a story of friendship. Before playing at Woolly, the wildly titled play was conceived at London’s Royal Court Theatre in 2019, and then landed stateside for runs at the Public Theater’s Under the Radar Festival last month in New York. Then at D.C, the production proved a big success like so many like so many show shows heralded by Woolly artistic director Manuela Goyanes Maria.

1600 7th St. NW dachabeergarden.com Editor’s Choice: Flash

Best LGBTQ Bar Outside the District: Freddie’s Beach Bar - Arlington, VA 555 23rd St. S, Arlington, Va. freddiesbeachbar.com Editor’s Choice: Baltimore Eagle

Freddie’s Beach Bar is the place to be for the gays who love happy hour. Along with amazing food and drinks, the restaurant also offers vibrant karaoke nights, piano nights and thrilling games like beach blan(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) ket bingo. Anyone who’s been there can attest to Freddie’s being the place to be after work, blazer off, tie untied, heels exchanged for flats.

Best Theater: Kennedy Center Kennedy-center.org Editor’s Choice: Arena Stage

What’s lovingly called the big white box on the river has been selected as our readers’ favorite. The historic Kennedy Center has it all including symphony, dance, Broadway shows, (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) and specifically queer-made shows like “The Night Garden: A Sartorial Celebration” on Oct. 25.

“The Night Garden” is a fashion show and small exhibition event celebrating the life and legacy of the first drag queen in America, William Dorsey Swann. The mission of this experience is to bring history alive for D.C. and celebrate queer history month by focusing on the legacy that is William Dorsey Swann, the first drag queen on record right here in D.C. This event is curated by D.C. drag queen and fashion designer, Pussy Noir.

Woolly Mammoth Theatre 641 D St., N.W. Editor’s Choice: King Lear, Shakespeare Theatre Company

Best Live Music Outside of D.C.: Wolf Trap 1551 Trap Rd Vienna, Va. Editor’s Choice: Merriweather Post Pavilion

For music alfresco, Wolf Trap continues to reign supreme with readers.

Comprised of various venues (the mainstage Filene Center, Children’s Theatre-in-the Woods, and the Barns) set on 117 acres in Vienna, Va., Wolf (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) Trap was established in 1966 and remains the only national park dedicated to presenting the performing arts. And like any performing arts center serving an increasingly diverse community, over time, needs concerning art, music, and style change tremendously.

Its president and CEO, Arvind Manocha, is gay. When he took the helm in 2013, he quickly noted the increasingly diverse communities making their homes in the area: “Whether Puerto Rican, Indian and South Asian, or LGBTQ+, we needed to reach out. It’s important for us to be a mirror to the society around us, and anticipate the changes they’d like to see.” And that’s only gotten better.

Best Live Music in D.C.: 9:30 club

The sound is great. It’s an intimate venue. The best place to see a concert, and they had the best gay parties back in the day, including Blowoff.”

Named one of the best live music venues in America by Rolling Stone, (Photo by Farrah Skeiky) and dubbed “Venue of the Decade” by the widely read VenuesNow, the 9:30 is legendary. Since opening in 1980, the club has hosted everyone from the Psychedelic Furs to the B52s to Tony Bennett.

Best Museum: National Air & Space Museum 600 Independence Ave, S.W. airandspace.si.edu Editor’s Choice: National Gallery of Art

The National Air & Space Museum is a favorite for tourists and locals alike. Complete with a planetarium, an Imax theater, numerous exhibits, and frequent events, there’s something for everyone.

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) The museum is LGBTQ-friendly, having “QueerSpace,” a podcast available on their website that talks about the impact that LGBTQ people have had on space exploration and research, as well as science fiction.

“LGBTQ+ People” is an entire subtopic on the website that brings you to many such stories. This museum is a great choice for when you need to escape the D.C. humidity, and you’ll likely find yourself inspired.

Best Amateur Sports League: DC Front Runners dcfrontrunners.org Editor’s Choice: Stonewall Kickball

For sporty queers looking for an athletic club and place to socialize, the DC Front Runners has become home to many. The DC Front Runners are the local chapter of the International Front Runners, a welcoming club for run(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) ners and walkers alike for 40 years.

In addition to runs, they host several social events throughout the year, including volunteer work, happy hours, and annual anniversary and holiday parties. The club is based in D.C., but has members worldwide.

Best Local Winery: District Winery 385 Water St., S.E. Editor’s Choice: Bluemont Vineyard

815 V St. N.W. 930.com Editor’s Choice: The Anthem

The venerable and great 9:30 club wins again.

Words from a former a 9:30 club staffer and Blade editor: “Your favorite band plays at the 9:30 no matter what your favorite band is.” He continues, “Workers are great.

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(Photo courtesy District Winery)

District Winery describes itself as a modern, wine-focused, globally minded restaurant and bar on the ground floor of a working winery.

The Blade’s readers clearly have embraced the concept, voting it the city’s best.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued Best Local Professional Sports Team: Washington Capitals Editor’s Choice: Washington Commanders

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

COMMUNITY

Best LGBTQ Event: Flower Factory @flowerfactory_party Editor’s Choice: District of Pride Showcase

This is the queer DJ collective’s debut on this list. Flower Factory has been throwing events every second Sunday of the month since June 2021, and aims to create a more inclusive LGBTQ+ nightlife scene in the District. The group throws parties at several differ(Photo via Instagram) ent venues in the area, including As You Are, Zebbie’s Garden and Black Cat. The music showcased at Flower Factory parties ranges from techno, pop, hip-hop and house, and attracts hundreds of guests.

Typically beginning in the afternoon and ending in the early evening, it’s a way to end the weekend and begin the week with a celebratory tone.

Best Pride Outside of DC: Annapolis Pride annapolispride.org Editor’s Choice: Baltimore Pride

For the second year in a row, Annapolis Pride wins best Pride outside of D.C. Founded in the spring of 2018, a group of Annapolis locals decided it was about time the city had its own Pride event, just like Baltimore and D.C. Its first (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) festival officially kicked off in 2019 and attracted more than 6,000 attendees. The city will celebrate its fourth Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival in June 2024.

Best Day Trip: Annapolis visitannapolis.org Editor’s Choice: Harper’s Ferry

Next time you need a quick getaway, check out the endless activities in Maryland’s charming capital city on the Chesapeake. Check out the famous historical land-

marks like the Maryland State House and St. Anne’s Church. Explore the plethora of antique shops like Blue Crab Antiques and West Annapolis Antiques.

And you can’t visit without indulging in seafood dining spots like Cantler’s (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) and O’Learys Seafood.

There are also several gardens and parks, like Broadneck Park (613 College Pkwy) or the Chase Home Garden (22 Maryland Ave.) where you can unplug and enjoy a stroll.

Best Clergy: Bishop Allyson Abrams Runner-up: Rev. Ashley Goff

Bishop Allyson Abrams founded and established the Empowerment Liberation Cathedral in May 2014. She resigned from a Detroit church a decade ago after it was revealed she had married a woman, she told the Blade in 2014. After that, she (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) decided to resign and moved to the area to start her own Baptist church — Empowerment Liberation Cathedral, now based in Lanham, Md. “We welcome and affirm every race, gender, sexuality and disability,” Abrams told the Blade in 2014. “We want to give them a safe space, teach principles and to pour into them God’s love. People say it’s amazing to hear a pastor say that God loves us the way we are. I’m always going to make sure God knows them.”

Most Committed Activist: Heidi Ellis Runner-up: Rayceen Pendarvis

Heidi Ellis is the founder and CEO of HME Consulting and Advocacy, a company that seeks to advance policies and initiatives that address issues of intersectionality within the LGBTQ+ community. She works on a variety of projects in the consulting and advocacy space, like (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) facilitating training for companies to better understand how to serve and work with LGBTQ clients and employees, for example. She is a leader in the DC LGBTQ+ Budget Coalition, and since she began leading the coalition, it has raised more than $5 million for local LGBTQ programs.

“Even though I am a private consultant … my work is very much mission-driven,” she told the Blade in September. “I don’t take any clients that are not aligned with my mission.”

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Best D.C. Public Official: Robert White Runner-up: Salah Czapary

At-large Councilmember Robert White has been a member of the D.C. Council since 2016 and ran for mayor in the 2022 election, where he garnered endorsements from LGBTQ organizations like the Capital (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) Stonewall Democrats. As a Council member, he’s introduced pro-LGBTQ legislation like the Pride Plates Amendment Act of 2023, which would create a special purpose fund to support the work of the Office of LGBTQ Affairs through a line of Pride license plates. He’s also been outspoken in condemning violence against the LGBTQ community. “I want my LGBTQ neighbors to know that I see you, I hear you, I support you, and I am deeply troubled and disturbed by these attacks,” he said in 2019.

Best LGBTQ Social Group: Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington 1517 18th St., N.W. gmcw.org Editor’s Choice: Impulse DC

A repeat winner in this category, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington calls itself the “voice of equality of the nation’s capital,” and with an annual audience of 100,000+, many would agree.

The GMCW entertains, (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) inspires, and advocates through music. They have toured nationwide and been featured on the “Today” show. Their next show in D.C. will be the Holiday Show on Dec. 9.

Best Non-Profit powered by PEPCO: SMYAL 410 7th St., S.E. smyal.org Editor’s Choice: Capital Pride

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Last year’s Editor’s Choice, SYMAL, takes the crown for 2023’s Best Non-Profit. SYMAL is an organization dedicated to LGBTQ equality and opportunity. It provides counseling services, development opportunities, and after-school programs

for LGBTQ youth.

It also provides education and training for adults servicing LGBTQ youths in schools, housing programs, local government agencies, and hospitals.

SMYAL’s mission is to instill confidence and life skills into youth as well as to inspire them to partake in community service. These fundamental values will be critical for LGBTQ youth to carry into a brighter, empowered future.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued Best House of Worship: Foundry United Methodist Church

1500 16th St., N.W. foundryumc.org Editor’s Choice: Metropolitan Community Church of Washington DC For LGBTQ people of faith, finding a supportive community can be challenging. The Foundry United Methodist Church is an inclusive, Christian community that is welcoming to all. As stated on its website, some of (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) its strongest values are a devotion to diversity and that they honor humans just as they honor divinity.

The church hangs the LGBTQ and transgender Pride flags outside, making it clear the community is welcome.

The inclusion does not stop there, as the church has an LGBTQ board member, and occasionally hosts events such as the LGBTQ+ Potluck they held last year.

Best Local Website/Social Media Account: Washingtonian Problems @washingtonianprobs Editor’s Choice: District Fray Magazine

Thumb 20 Countdown Show.” When not working, Waters is known for her pro-wrestling commentary on TikTok, her vast collection of sneakers, and her love of pasta at Filomena in Georgetown.

Best Medical Provider: Whitman-Walker Health

Editor’s Choice: AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Whitman-Walker Health has been serving the D.C. community since 1973.

Named after Walt Whitman, who once lived in Washington, and Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a physician who worked in D.C. during the Civil War be(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) fore she became a women’s rights activist, Whitman-Walker was one of the first organizations to respond to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the city. Whitman-Walker’s mission has expanded to include legal services and general medical and dental care for LGBTQ Washingtonians and the city’s residents as a whole.

Whitman-Walker’s new Max Robinson Center opened last month in the city’s St. Elizabeth’s East campus in Southeast Washington.

The Blade also acknowledges AIDS Healthcare Foundation for its continued work in D.C. and around the world.

(Photo by Rodney Bailey)

ing in new ways by renewing its focus in the competitive industry and delivering enhanced services at the highest level.”

Whyte said he remains thankful to his colleagues and partners “who have lifted us to a position to be able to make this change for our clients.”

“It is because of their hard work, expertise, and skills that we have been able to create connections with our clients and produce events that exceed expectations,” he said.

Best LGBTQ-Owned Business: Jane Jane 1705 14th St., N.W. janejanedc.com Editor’s Choice: District CoOp

Best Alternative Transportation: Metro

Editor’s Choice: Capital Bikeshare

(Photo courtesy of Washingtonian Problems)

Washingtonian Problems began as a Tumblr blog in 2012. It moved to Instagram in January 2019 “to have a better chance of building a solid community.”

“The brand’s mission is to foster a deep love for Washington, D.C., through informing residents about what’s happening across the city, providing laughter, and allowing followers to engage with the brand,” reads its website.

Recent posts on its IG page include DC Dates Live and the renaming of the long-maligned Dave Thomas Circle to Mamie ‘Peanut’ Johnson Plaza. Embattled New York Congressman George Santos, who is also known for his stint as a drag queen in Rio de Janeiro, also gets an honorable mention.

Best Local TV/Radio Personality: Britt Waters, ABC7 @itsBrittWaters Runner-up: Chuck Bell, NBC4

(Photo by Stephen Gosling)

Britt Waters joined ABC7 in September 2021.

She is a morning traffic reporter on “7News On Your Side” and host on “Good Morning Washington.”

Waters is also a Washington Wizards in-game host.

She also hosts Sirius XM’s “Pandora New

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Best Private School: Barrie School

(Screen capture via Youtube)

13500 Layhill Rd. Silver Spring, Md. Editor’s Choice: Burgundy Farm Country Day School

BUSINESS

Best Local Businessperson: Roger Whyte, Stratus Firm

stratusfirm.com Runner-up: Ed Bailey, Trade & Number Nine

Roger Whyte in 2011 founded RJ Whyte Event Production. The company in January rebranded itself as the Stratus Firm.

“The rebrand demonstrates the company’s depth of expertise as producers, technologists, designers, strategists, videographers, and everything in between,” reads the rebranding announcement. “As the landscape for event production has evolved the last few years, Stratus Firm recognizes its unique position to continue innovat-

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(Photo courtesy Capital Pride Alliance)

Jane Jane is a local restaurant and bar with a wide variety of cocktails, beers, wines, as well as a non-alcoholic menu for under-21s. Unique house features include “Classified Documents,” “Gin Soaked Felon,” “Seasonal Affective Delight,” and more. Jane Jane is also a participant in D.C.’s annual Taste of Pride, among other local restaurants.

Most LGBTQ-Friendly Workplace: Logan 14

1314 14th St., N.W. logan14salonspa.com Editor’s Choice: Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness This year marks Logan 14’s eighth consecutive win on the Blade’s Best Of. With roughly 75% of the business’s clientele being LGBTQ, this is their first win in this category.

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key) Logan 14 offers everything you could want from a salon or spa, including cut, color, extensions, waxes, massages, and hair styling for special occasions.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued

Best Real Estate Group: Bediz Group, Keller Williams

1918 18th St., N.W. Bediz.com Runner-up: Jenn Smira Team, Compass

(Image courtesy of Fatty’s Tattoo)

Best Tattoo Parlor: Fatty’s Tattoos Multiple locations Fattystattoos.com Editor’s Choice: Dapper Dog Tattoo

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Best Fitness or Workout Spot: VIDA Fitness Multiple locations VidaFitness.com Editor’s Choice: Barry’s Bootcamp

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

VIDA Fitness is without a doubt one of the DMV’s bestknown and beloved gyms.

The franchise has locations on U Street and in Logan Circle, City Vista, Gallery Place, the Yards, and in Ballston.

Another VIDA Fitness gym will soon open in Reston.

“Our gyms set the standard for high-quality, contemporary fitness with uniquely designed spaces, state-of-theart equipment, industry-leading programming, luxurious amenities, and a social atmosphere that motivates you to achieve at your highest capacity,” reads VIDA’s website.

VIDA’s Penthouse Pool and Lounge on U Street is one of the city’s more exclusive summertime refuges.

Best Dentist: Dr. Gregory Martin DDS

(Photo courtesy Martin)

5454 Wisconsin Ave., N.W. gregorymartindds.com Runner-up: Dr. Rob McKernan, Big Gay Smiles & Staff Dentist, Whitman Walker Health

Best Real Estate Agent: Justin Noble, TTR Sotheby’s

BurnsandNoble.com 202-503-4243 Runner-up: Stacey Williams-Zeiger, Zeiger Realty

(Photo by Meg Shupe)

Justin Noble is a Realtor with Sotheby’s International Realty licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware for your DMV and Delaware beach needs.

Specializing in first-time homebuyers, development, and new construction as well as estate sales, Justin is a well-versed agent, highly regarded, and provides white glove service at all price points.

Best Salon/Spa: Bang Salon 601 F St., N.W. #100 bangsalon.com Editor’s Choice: Logan 14

(Photo courtesy Bediz Group)

Best Adult Store: Bite the Fruit

1723 Connecticut Ave., N.W. (Second floor) Editor’s Choice: Trick Box

Bite the Fruit is a f re q u e n t guest on this list — the shop has been v o t e d Best Adult Store by readers several times and won in the Best A d u l t Store category in 2021 and (Photo courtesy Bite the Fruit) 2022. The shop has a robust inventory of sex toys, films, and apparel. Bite the Fruit is self-described as kink-forward, gay-owned and straight-friendly. “We cater to everyone guided by what is safe, sane and consensual,” according to its website.

Items are available in-store or online.

With four locations in the D.C. area, Bang Salon offers everything you could need for your hair, such as cut, color, style, keratin treatment, loc maintenance, and so much more.

For whole body wellness, the salon has an aura spa, nutritional counseling, a penthouse pool, personal training, Pilates, Sweatbox, and Vida Fitness.

Best Hotel: Eaton DC

1201 K St., N.W. eatonworkshop.com/en-us/washington-dc/ Editor’s Choice: Four Seasons

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Eaton DC, a returning winner in this category, is described as beyond a hotel for tourists. According to its website, “Eaton exists at the nexus of hospitality, impact, culture, and wellness.”

Dedicated to culture and creativity, Eaton frequently hosts original artistic programming such as live music, film, talks, theater, and more. The building itself was designed to be innovative and progressive, and environmentally sustainable.

Eaton has been welcoming to the LGBTQ community, hosting a month-long Pride festival in 2022.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued Best Car Dealership: BMW of Fairfax 8427 Lee Highway Fairfax, Va. Bmwoffairfax.com Editor’s Choice: DARCARS

Best Lawyer: Jennifer Fairfax Family Formation Law Office 827 Woodside Parkway Silver Spring, Md. Runner-up: Michele Zavos

Jennifer Fairfax focuses on adoption and assisted reproductive law and is licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, according to her bio. (Fairfax was appointed Montgomery County Circuit Court judge in September so is no longer practicing as an attorney.)

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Best Home Furnishings: Miss Pixie’s 1626 14th St., N.W. Misspixies.com Editor’s Choice: Room & Board

Miss Pixie’s, returning as winner of Best Home Furnishings for the third year in a row, sells vintage furniture and decor perfect for any queer home. They have everything you could need, including chairs, tables, bookshelves, dressers, mirrors, and “whatnots,” which includes dishware, photos, books, magazines, and even bottle caps.

Miss Pixie’s diverse catalogue has a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes so everyone can find something perfect for them.

Best Pet Business or Veterinarian: District Dogs Districtdogs.com Editor’s Choice: City Paws Animal Hospital

(Photo courtesy District Dogs)

Best Rehoboth-Area Live Show: Dirty Bingo with Magnolia Applebottom at Diego’s 37298 Rehoboth Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Del. Diegosbarnightclub.com Editor’s Choice: Legends at Blue Moon

REHOBOTH BEACH

Best Rehoboth Drag Queen: Magnolia Applebottom Runner-up: ReginaCox

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

Magnolia Applebottom’s Dirty Bingo is just one of her gigs but it’s our readers’ pick for the best live show in town. And there’s no shortage of competition here, from the venerable Pamala Stanley’s occasional Sunday dance party at Freddie’s to the talented singer and pianist Nate Buccieri at the Moon, there are plenty of options for live shows. Magnolia brings her fearless quick wit to her Dirty Bingo ensuring a hilarious good time for all.

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

She’s not just a performer, but also the one responsible for booking a wide array of entertainment at The Pines, from drag to piano to book signings. Rehoboth would be a much duller place without Kelly’s dedication and hard work; someone get her a key to the city!

Magnolia seems too young to be a veteran and staple of Rehoboth nightlife entertainment, yet that’s exactly what she’s become. From Diego’s to the Blue Moon to the nearby Milton Theatre, Magnolia holds court in her inimitable way, always singing live and looking fabulous. She’s won this category multiple times, which is no small feat given the quality and quantity of drag shows in the Rehoboth Beach area. Even nearby Dewey Beach, popular with the straight college crowd, has gotten in on the drag craze with shows this year popping up at North Shore and other venues. But no one in the burgeoning drag scene at the beach does it better than Magnolia, who reigns for another year as queen of this category.

Best Rehoboth Bartender: Chris Chandler

Purple Parrot 134 Rehoboth Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Del. Runner-Up: Georgiy Yanchenko, Purple Parrot

Best Rehoboth Drag Show: Drag Brunch at the Pines

56 Baltimore Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Del. Editor’s Choice: Splash Party with Magnolia Applebottom at Diego’s Drag fans have an embarrassment of riches in Rehoboth Beach and for the second consecutive year, our readers have embraced Drag Brunch at the Pines as the best. No one works harder to (Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt) boost Rehoboth’s live entertainment scene than Kristina Kelly, who holds court at The Pines.

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(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

Chris Chandler has won this category so many times that we thought about renaming the award in his honor. And it’s easy to see why. From the busiest summer holiday weekends to the sleepy weeknights in February, Chandler is a constant presence and handles the crowds with ease. The Parrot is always finding fun ways to party, including a recent event in honor of Mrs. Roper that drew a packed house during a tropical storm with everyone decked out in Roper wigs and caftans. Through it all, Chandler presides with a calm smile always at the ready with a generous pour of your favorite cocktail.

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Best Of LGBTQ DC 2023 continued Best Rehoboth Outdoor Dining: Purple Parrot

Best Rehoboth Restaurant: Drift 42 ½ Baltimore Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Del. Editor’s Choice: Blue Moon

134 Rehoboth Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Del. Runner-up: Aqua

Best Rehoboth Real Estate Agent: Lee Ann Wilkinson 16698 Kings Highway A Lewes, Del. Leeanngroup.com Runner-up: Jason Abela

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

Best Rehoboth Business: Diego’s Bar & Nightclub

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

37298 Rehoboth Ave. Rehoboth Beach, Del. Diegosbarnightclub.com Editor’s Choice: Aqua Grill

This is the second consecutive win for the venerable Parrot in this category. In summer, there’s no better place to escape the boardwalk, grab a table, and enjoy the always-festive atmosphere of the outdoor Biergarten. There are regular food specials, including crab cakes, German cuisine, and prime rib nights. The Parrot is also home to perennial winners in our Best Bartender category, Chris Chandler (this year’s winner) and Georgiy Yanchenko (last year’s winner).

Best Rehoboth Coffeeshop: The Coffee Mill

This is Lee Ann Wilkinson’s sixth consecutive win in this competitive category. The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group is regularly tops in regional sales in Sussex County, which is home to Rehoboth Beach. In this competitive real estate market with high interest rates and low inventory, you need talented professionals like Lee Ann on your side when buying or selling a home.

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

127 Rehoboth Ave. B Rehoboth Beach, Del. Editor’s Choice: Rise Up

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

This is the second consecutive win for the Coffee Mill, a locals favorite for its diverse selection of beans, cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and status as a place to be seen, especially on weekends when the outdoor tables fill up fast.

Drift took Rehoboth by storm this year with its inventive seafood-centric menu (the lobster French toast is a must) and scored a well-deserved rave review in the Washington Post.

The building dates to the late 1800s and formerly housed the Seafood Shack. But the rustic vibe is gone after a gorgeous renovation that includes a narrow dining room, partially open kitchen, spacious outdoor dining area, and intimate bar that cleverly opens to the outside with room for a handful of outdoor barstools when weather permits.

Chef Tom Wiswell, known to D.C. diners from his stint at Kinship, has created a menu that celebrates regional cuisine like oysters and crab cakes, but elevates them with unique preparations and stunning presentations.

Drift is part of the growing 2nd Block Hospitality Group, which just opened its newest hot spot, Bodhi Kitchen, which will likely turn up in our 2024 Best Of issue. In the meantime, make a reservation at Drift and enjoy the best of the beach.

(Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

This is the third consecutive win for Diego’s in this category and evidence of the enduring appeal and staying power of this favorite destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for a laid back happy hour with friends or a sweaty, packed dance party, you’ll find it at Diego’s, which is also home to an array of live entertainment and drag shows. The spacious and comfortable outdoor bar is simply one of the town’s greatest pleasures.

Rehoboth could use more outdoor spaces like this.

Thank you to our 2023 Sponsors

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CALENDAR |

By TINASHE CHINGARANDE

Friday, October 20

Tuesday, October 24

Center Aging Friday Tea Time will be at 2 p.m. on Zoom. This is a social hour for older LGBTQ+ adults. For more details, email adam@thedccenter.org.

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Social” at 7 p.m. at Puro Gusto. This event is ideal for making new friends, professional networking, idea-sharing, and community building. Admission is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Genderqueer DC will be at 7:30 p.m. on Zoom. This is a support group on Zoom for people who identify outside of the gender binary, whether you’re bigender, agender, genderfluid, or just know that you’re not 100% cis. For more details, email supportdesk@thedccenter.org.

Saturday, October 21 Wig Night Out returns starting at 4 p.m. at Kiki, then 5 p.m. at Dirty Goose, then 6 p.m. at Shakers, and concludes at 7:30 p.m. at Number Nine. Each bar will be filled with a host, pop-up performances, wig contests and awareness for two great causes. It’s free to attend and wigs are required. More information is available on Eventbrite.

LGBTQ People of Color Support Group will be at 1 p.m. on Zoom. This peer support group is an outlet for LGBTQ People of Color to come together and talk about anything affecting them in a space the strives to be safe and judgement free. For more details, visit thedccenter. org/poc or facebook.com/centerpoc.

South Asian LGBTQ Support Group will be at 1:30 p.m. on Zoom. This peer support group is an outlet for South Asian-identified LGBTQ individuals to come and talk about anything affecting them. It’s a secure, judgment-free environment to discuss relationships, sexuality, health, well-being, identity, culture, religion, or anything that is on your mind. For more details, email board.khushdc@gmail.com.

Sunday, October 22 AfroCode DC will be at 4 p.m. at Decades DC. This event will be an experience of non-stop music, dancing, and good vibes and a crossover of genres and a fusion of cultures. Tickets cost $40 and can be purchased on Eventbrite.

GoGay DC will host “LGBTQ+ Dinner & Conversation” at 6 p.m. at Federico Ristorante Italiano. Guests are encouraged to come enjoy an evening of Italian-style dining and conversation with other LGBTQ+ folk on the enclosed front patio. Admission is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Wednesday, October 25 Job Club will be at 6 p.m. on Zoom. This is a weekly job support program to help job entrants and seekers, including the long-term unemployed, improve self-confidence, motivation, resilience and productivity for effective job searches and networking — allowing participants to move away from being merely “applicants” toward being “candidates.” For more information, email centercareers@thedccenter.org or visit www.thedccenter.org/ careers.

Asexual and Aromantic Group will be at 7 p.m. on Zoom. This is a space where people who are questioning this aspect of their identity or those who identify as asexual and/or aromantic can come together, share stories and experiences, and discuss various topics. For more details, email supportdesk@thedccenter.org.

Thursday, October 26 The DC Center’s Fresh Produce Program will be held all day at the DC Center for the LGBT Community. To be more fair with who is receiving boxes, the program is moving to a lottery system. People will be informed on Wednesday at 5:00 pm if they are picked to receive a produce box. No proof of residency or income is required.

For more information, email supportdesk@thedccenter. org or call 202-682-2245.

Virtual Yoga Class with Jesse Z. will be at 12 p.m. online. This is a weekly class focusing on yoga, breathwork, and meditation. Guests are encouraged to RSVP on the DC Center’s website, providing your name, email address, and zip code, along with any questions you may have. A link to the event will be sent at 6 pm the day before.

OUT & ABOUT SMYAL’s Fall Brunch is almost here SMYAL will host its 26th Annual Fall Brunch on Saturday, Oct. 28 at 10:30 a.m. at Marriott Marquis.

The event will honor recipients of SMYAL’s annual Community Advocate and Todd Peterson Awards: Sean Doolittle & Eireann Dolan and Jocko Fajardo. All three played a pivotal role in advancing the mission and impact of SMYAL. There will also be a silent auction in which guests can bid on outstanding items from local businesses, unforgettable trips, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Tickets start at $200 and can be purchased on SMYAL’s website.

High Heel Race returns with Karamo Brown The D.C. Mayor’s Office for LGBTQ Affairs will host the 36th annual 17th Street High Heel Race on Tuesday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. at 17th Street, between R and P streets, N.W., near Dupont Circle.

This event is a time to celebrate the diversity of D.C.’s LGBTQ community and join thousands of costumed spectators cheer on costumed drag queens, drag kings, and community members as they race down 17th Street.

The event is hosted by Rayceen Pendarvis and will feature an appearance by Karamo Brown.

Admission is free and more details are available on Eventbrite.

Monday, October 23 Center Aging Monday Coffee and Conversation will be at 10 a.m. on Zoom. LGBT Older Adults — and friends — are invited to enjoy friendly conversations and to discuss any issues you might be dealing with. For more information, visit the Center Aging’s Facebook or Twitter.

Queer Book Club will be at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. The group will be reading “House of Hunger” by Alexis Henderson. For more information, email supportdesk@thedccenter.org.

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KARAMO BROWN makes a special appearance at the High Heel Race on Tuesday.

(Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

World Premiere!

STORIES FROM HOME

By Yvonne Montoya & Co. (Arizona)

Untold stories of Latinos in the American Southwest celebrate their resilience and Sephardic, Mexican and Native roots through the transformative power of dance.

Oct 28 & 29, 2023 Saturday 8 pm & Sunday 2 pm

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One block north of Columbia Heights Metro station galatheatre.org | 202-234-7174 | 3333 14th St NW, WDC 20010 All performances are mask-optional. Proof of vaccination not required

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Native American Heritage Month events Free | In-person | Online

Celebrate the vibrant lives of Native peoples today.

Artist Raven Chacon in Concert and Conversation Saturday, Nov. 4, 2 p.m.–5 p.m. | National Mall

Honoring Native Veterans

Saturday, Nov. 11, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. | National Mall

Native Cinema Showcase 2023 | Nov. 17–24 | Online Native American Heritage Day Friday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m. | National Mall

AmericanIndian.si.edu Photo by Alan Karchmer for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian

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AUTOS

Muscle-car maniac: Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat You can’t beat this one for a last hurrah in a true muscle car

By JOE PHILLIPS It’s hard to forget your first love. For me, it wasn’t exactly Danell Leyva or Michael Sam. Yet there was some serious muscle on my primo amore: a Pontiac LeMans 455 sportster.

Sparkly blue. White racing stripes. Twin-scoop hood. Dual exhaust. Feisty engine. Talk about butch points.

I’ve waxed poetic before about this super coupe, which ferried me all through high school. With tender loving care, I kept my beloved ride in great shape.

Alas, the next owner did not. Soon enough, it was riddled with rust, scrapes and scores of dents. Sigh.

But just last month, bittersweet memories of my first car came back when I tested the 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat. This top-of-the-line model boasts hyper horsepower and, seemingly, supersonic speed. There’s also an acres-long hood, low-slung seats and a tricked-out, gauge-laden dashboard.

Driving this rad Challenger was a thundering throwback to muscle cars of yore. It certainly got my motor running, and it likely will do the same for you.

But not for long: This is the last year of production before Dodge begins churning out an electric-only version.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m all in on EVs. They’re fun, fast, and eco-friendly. But if you’re looking for a last hurrah in a true muscle car, the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat can’t be beat.

DODGE CHALLENGER SRT HELLCAT

$73,000 | MPG: 13 city/22 highway 0 to 60 mph: 3.6 seconds | Cargo room: 16.2 cu. ft.

PROS: wicked fast, kick-ass looks, wake-the-dead rumble

CONS: almost too fast to handle, oh-so-impractical, final year IN A NUTSHELL: First, the good news. A base-model Dodge Challenger costs $33,000, or $15,000 below the $48,000 average price of a new vehicle today. With a 303-horsepower V6, this two-door hardtop can scoot from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 5.3 seconds. Not too shabby.

But hey, why settle for “Glee” or “Modern Family” reruns when you can stream more trendy fare like “Dicks: The Musical,” right?

In other words, there are more fabulous Challenger trim levels, each offering more enticing features, styling and power than the next. It all culminates with the SRT Hellcat, which— thanks to an iconic HEMI V8—churns out a ridiculous 807 horsepower and can go faster than many a Ferrari, Lamborghini or McLaren.

Unfortunately, Challenger pricing adds up quickly, especially if you opt for any of the dizzying array of specialty packages, customized paint jobs, interior colors and such. My test car, for example, was an eye-popping $100,000 and included the Redeye, Widebody and Black Ghost configurations. This meant wider wheels and tires, a sportier suspension, larger Brembo brakes, protruding fender flares and a glossy black exterior with white racing stripes across the rear end. The high-test brake calipers, usually bright red, were painted black to highlight the 20-inch silver wheels. For a real retro vibe, there was a circular chrome fuel door that said “FUEL” on the gas cap. The most love-it-or-hate-it feature: the roof, with its funky black-andgray graphics designed to look like alligator skin.

DODGE CHALLENGER SRT HELLCAT

Production of the Black Ghost is limited to 300 units and is part of Dodge’s “Last Call” series, the automaker’s celebratory nod to the end of the Hemi combustion engine. These special editions include an under-hood plaque stamped with a Challenger silhouette, as well as the factory location of where the car was built.

Driving such a menacing beast was exciting — and scary. At first, there seemed to be too much muscle under the hood, especially on wet roads when this coupe would easily fishtail.

But I quickly learned to step on the accelerator ever so gently to still get plenty of thrills. (As for the racetrack-ready “Launch” button on the dashboard, it went unused—though I imagine pressing it just might have taken me airborne.)

The cabin had a smart, old-school ambience yet was full of modern amenities: dual-zone climate control, smartphone integration, flat-bottom steering wheel with paddle shifters, heated/ventilated seats and more. While there was an optional 18-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, turning on the ignition and listening to the throaty rumble was music enough for my ears.

This is no SUV, of course, so don’t expect to haul lots of supplies from Home Dept. But the Challenger does have the most trunk space among sports cars. Split-folding rear seats open up the cargo area even more.

Overall, the Challenger SRT Hellcat was one helluva rush. It offered plenty of speed, sex appeal and ear-splitting screams— from the exhaust pipes, as well as a few of my passengers.

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES METROPOLITAN JAZZ ORCHESTRA WITH CHRISTIAN McBRIDE

WORLD PREMIERE

SILKROAD ENSEMBLE WITH RHIANNON GIDDENS

Jim Carroll, artistic director

American Railroad

Saturday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 7 p.m.

Eight-time GRAMMY Award-winning jazz bassist

KEYBOARD CONVERSATIONS® WITH JEFFREY SIEGEL Power and Passion of Beethoven

A musical map of the Transcontinental Railroad

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THE BARBER OF SEVILLE Saturday, Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 12 at 2 p.m.

Rossini’s beloved bel canto operatic comedy

Sunday, Oct. 29 at 7 p.m.

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BLADE BIZ

Three Fifty Bakery thriving after nearly 10 years, moving into larger space Gay-owned hot spot features superior coffee and baked goods

By OMARI FOOTE After working in IT for 20 years, Jimmy Hopper took a baking course at age 30 and would soon decide that it was time for a career change.

After taking the baking course, Hopper worked part time decorating wedding cakes and cookies, before moving to D.C. and leasing the property for his new business, Three Fifty Bakery & Coffee Bar. It would take the first-time business owner an entire year to open up the space.

“I went through things that every new business owner goes through when they’re opening, which is kind of just doubting themselves,” he said.

The bakery was initially intended to specialize in cake decorating but Hopper and his partner recognized that what the community needed more was a coffee bar and bakery for their morning commute.

Three Fifty’s bakery items include scones, croissants, quiche, breads, muffins, and cookies. Their fresh, handheld baked goods are all under $10 and can be accompanied with what many customers consider the best coffee in D.C. Hopper estimates that about 60 percent of customers are bakery regulars who come at least five days a week. When they tried to introduce seasonal items they got complaints from some faithful customers. As a result, items like pumpkin bread are now served year-round.

Rosario Rojas doesn’t come that often, but she has been going to ThreeFifty since she moved to D.C. during the pandemic in 2020.

“I live down the street and my neighbor was like, ‘This place has the best coffee in D.C’ and I love coffee so I was like I’ll check it out and ever since then I come here,” she said.

Despite the bakery’s decade of success, one of Hopper’s proudest feats is his employee retention. Of his 14 employees most of them have worked at the bakery for more than three years, which is practically unheard of in the restaurant business.

“I just treat them like family, if they need off for a personal issue, then I do everything I can to make it work out for them, even covering their shift if I have to,” he said.

Three Fifty’s current location is at 1926 17th Street, N.W., but due to a growing customer base the business is moving to a larger space in early November. (An exact date

JIMMY HOPPER is owner of Three Fifty Bakery.

hasn’t been set.) The new location is familiar to local LGBTQ residents — it will be located in the former Level One space at 1639 R St., just a short walk from the current location.

Hopper hopes to see the customer base double within a year of the move and to grow his employee team to about 20 staff members. If you are interested in working for Three Fifty, you can email baked@threefifty.com. For more information, visit threefifty. com.

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Songwriter City With Lee Thomas Miller and Wendell Mobley Saturday, Oct. 21, 7 p.m.

Grammy and Country Music Award nominees Lee Thomas Miller and Wendell Mobley have written hits for Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw, Garth Brooks, Kenny Rogers and more. Join us for an evening of music and stories.

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REAL ESTATE

6 reasons to hire a Realtor when buying or selling We handle everything from vendor lists to marketing

By JUSTIN NOBLE

As a real estate professional you will go on listing appointments and buyer meetings to not only attempt to gain business but to educate the general public on what it is that we as real estate professionals do. I know what you’re thinking — and if you’ve seen my photo before you wouldn’t be wrong to assume that I am cast in “Selling DC” as the lead villain. I am just waiting for that phone call. But in all seriousness, when I sit down to come up with a list of things to prove to prospective clients the value in working with me as their real estate professional, I am pretty blown away at the myriad of tasks that a professional representing you in a real estate transaction is responsible for managing, including but not limiting to the following: 1. Have a pulse on the marketplace to truly understand exactly what is happening from a buying and selling standpoint while also understanding the economical side of things — not just looking at interest rates. Why are rates where they are? Which employers in the area are laying off workers and could that cause an influx of inventory? What are the trends for individuals moving IN or OUT of an area looking like? Forecasting the marketplace of all things that truly affect real estate is vital.

2. Soft Skills. These are the skills often considered as customer service skills. The ability to be approachable by all types of people and ensure that you are open to receive information. Also, when conveying bad news, it’s important to ensure that it is done in a manner in which you, the receiver, will be pleasantly receptive.

3. Pre-market vendors. Not only are real estate professionals expected to market your home for sale or locate a home for you to purchase, we are also expected to have a list of pre-market vendors that you can use for your lending needs, home inspection, title work, any fluffing and buffing needed pre market for the sale of your home such as a contractor, painter, landscaper, etc. We have a book of well vetted vendors that either I personally have used or past clients have used that can assist with your needs. This beats Googling for hours and accidently choosing the wrong contractor.

Section A of the pre-market vendor list includes those in which we real estate professionals use for marketing materials for your property. We will use the best photographers, have

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floor plans drawn for your property, video, staging, catering for brokers opens and the list goes on. Again, this is a well-vetted list that we have worked on for years and done all of the heavy lifting and had those uncomfortable conversations when things are not properly executed – so you don’t have to.

4. On Market Tasks. These are the tasks that most clients are unaware that we do. Often when a listing is on market, A good Realtor can guide you throughout the entire folks think that I am just cruisprocess of buying or selling a home and save you money. ing around in my convertible buying nice things. However, I am in fact going around checking each listing on market to ensure that they are clean, the booties are replaced, marketing materials are distributed, light bulbs are all working, staging looks crisp and the list goes on. That of course, doesn’t include the tasks we do to properly market the property such as weekly email blasts, reaching out several times to follow up with showing agents to get their feedback, check the market to see what our competition looks like, what’s under contract and why, and again, I could go on. Needless to say the most important and time consuming tasks are those that are done when the property is on market.

5. “Contract to close” management. The term “contract to close” is pretty much what it sounds like — it’s what happens from the time we go under contract until we reach the closing finish line and you have those keys. Once a trusted real estate professional has fiercely negotiated on your behalf as a buyer, the fun starts. Again pops up this vendor list from item 3 - helping guide you though selection of a home inspector, termite inspector, etc., for the inspections. A title attorney is needed (depending on your jurisdiction) and any other vendors for quotes like renovations, etc., that you might want done to the property. Once the inspection is completed and we go through possible re-negotiations then we must ensure that the lender has the documents needed from you completed in order to have the appraisal done to prove the value of the home you are under contract for. Now we are getting into the weeds but once we are on the other side of things and the appraisal comes back at value and the loan is clear to close then we are at the finish line to your new home.

It’s similar if you are selling your home. The appraisal is a very important part of the checklist as that is the value of your home. The appraiser is a third party that the buyer, seller, lender or myself have no allegiance to. I do, however, have the duty to educate said appraiser on why I chose the listing price and how I came up with that value.

6. Post-market vendors. As mentioned before, a real estate professional should have a book of well-vetted vendors from which to choose. Looking at the list of vendors now that we are on the other side of the table, I can provide a cleaning person, HVAC contractor, someone to repair the sprinkler system, a dog walker, the best caterers and bakery in town.

Further down the road I am able to provide a wonderful wealth manager who can tell you what to do with that piece of real estate you purchased some time ago and we could go on for days.

While you are fully entitled to not use a real estate agent during your real estate transaction, I do believe that without one there would be loose ends not tied up, things mismanaged and possible delays that could cost real cash. All of that aside, it is also such a truly wonderful experience to work alongside a trusted professional that at the end of the transaction becomes a new friend and family member. Real estate professionals love what they do, they love real estate and people and shepherding you through the home buying or selling process is what it’s all about to us.

1/4 PAGE

JUSTIN NOBLE

is a Realtor with Sotheby’s international Realty licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware for your DMV and Delaware Beach needs.

Specializing in first-time homebuyers, development and new construction as well as estate sales, Justin is a well-versed agent, highly regarded, and provides white glove service at every price point. Reach him at 202-503-4243, Justin.Noble@SothebysRealty.com or BurnsandNoble.com.

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Associate Broker | Licensed in Virginia 703.967.4391 (CELL) McEnearney Associates, Inc. REALTORS 4720 Langston Blvd, Arlington, VA 22207 betsytwigg.com Equal Housing Opportunity

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