



Cirque du Soleil contortionist Aleksei Goloborodko, from the current production LUZIA, mesmerized the audience at the K Street stage during Art All Night Shaw 2025. Photo Courtesy Events DC.








































Cirque du Soleil contortionist Aleksei Goloborodko, from the current production LUZIA, mesmerized the audience at the K Street stage during Art All Night Shaw 2025. Photo Courtesy Events DC.
From Nov. 6 to 22, enjoy Gala ’s expanded Flamenco Festival featuring US and international artists. On Nov. 8, 2 p.m., enjoy AULA DE FLAMENCO and learn more about the importance of this art in Spanish culture. This 90-minute free conference is facilitated by Seville-born Dr. José Miguel Hernández Jaramillo, Ph.D. in Advanced Flamenco Studies and Ethnomusicology, and includes an initial discussion followed by a Flamenco demonstration. Also on the schedule are: Nov. 6 to 9, CRÓNICA DE UN SUCESO, created, choreographed & performed by Creada; Nov. 14 to 16, ENREDO FLAMENCO APARICIO DANCE CO.; Nov. 21 to 22, LAS MUJERES QUE HABITAN EN Mí. Tickets for each show are $25 to $50. A festival pass is $120. GALA Theatre is at 333 14th St. NW. galatheatre.org.
Grandma Moses: A Good Day’s Work offers fresh insight into the art of Anna Mary Robertson “Grandma Moses” (1860-1961). She used creativity, hope, and togetherness as tools for shaping a life she likened to “a good day’s work.” Blending nature and memory, her paintings tell unique yet familiar stories of America. Widely popular with the public but dismissed by critics, Moses remains a polarizing gure. The exhibition reintroduces her to new generations and explores her legacy today. On view at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and G streets NW, Oct. 24 to July 12, 2026. americanart.si.edu.
Through Dec. 7, the American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center, 4400 Massachusetts Ave. NW, serves as the central venue for this groundbreaking survey exhibition taking place across sixteen locations throughout the Greater Washington, DC region. The show brings together leading and emerging voices across all genres of the ne arts. With more than 60 works of art on display at the Katzen and more than 400 artists included in all 16 locations, this unprecedented initiative is now “the largest curated survey of contemporary living women artists in the nation and the rst survey of female visual artists working across the DMV,” according to curator Lenny Campello. The Katzen is open Wednesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission. american.edu/cas/museum.
Sharon Moody, Falling Away, 2024. Oil on panel, 18 x 24 inches. Courtesy of the artist.
This holiday season, Julia Masli returns to Woolly with a festive edition of her hit, award-winning show “ha ha ha ha ha ha ha,” now titled “ho ho ho ha ha ha ha.” Fresh off a global tour, Masli invites audiences to bring their holiday problems to the stage for a hilarious and surprising solution. A completely different show every night at Woolly Mammoth, 641 D St. NW, from Nov. 13 to Dec. 21. While no two shows are the same, the show is friendly for all ages. Tickets start at $49. woollymammoth.net.
at Strathmore
Kennedy Center Honoree and UNESCO Goodwill
cock received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. He now serves as Creative Chair for Jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Institute Chairman of the Herbie
Institute of Jazz. He performs at The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, on Saturday, Nov. 1, 8 p.m. Tickets $28–$138. strathmore.org.
MacArthur “Genius” grant recipient Samuel D. Hunter’s intimate, powerful play is a thoughtful meditation on human resilience. Inside a small office in southern Idaho, two men struggle to understand the confounding terms of a mortgage loan while connecting over the joy and pain of fatherhood. The pair form an unlikely friendship through their “specific kind of sadness,” using humor to find hope in the face of heartbreak. “A Case for the Existence of God” is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE. from Nov. 13 to Dec. 7. Tickets are $51 to $84. atlasarts.org.
Beginning October 2025, the National Archives Museum, 701 Constitution Ave. NW, reopens after a major redesign of two permanent exhibit spaces. “The American Story” highlights records that capture defining moments in U.S. history. Using AI, the exhibit offers visitors a personalized way to explore the records of the American people. Artifacts on view include a rare 1823 Stone Engraving of the Declaration of Independence, the Louisiana Purchase, and George Washington’s annotated Constitution. archives.gov.
After a home invasion, Faye hasn’t slept in twenty days. She’s fine, though! She really is! Living off Rice Krispies and adrenaline, she enlists her brother Naoise in an increasingly absurd attempt at exposure therapy. But Naoise has a hidden secret that’s about to surface. Lie Low is a dark comedy about trauma, the lies we tell ourselves, and the outrageous ways our brains work. Or don’t. The Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, from Nov. 6 to 23. General admission tickets are $61.25 to $66.25. The schedule includes many PWYC opportunities. This critically acclaimed, awardwinning show makes its North American premiere with Solas Nua: New Irish Arts. atlasarts.org.
The eccentric son of a wealthy businessman wreaks havoc when he embarks on a crusade to unveil the false foundations of his friend’s life. Ignorant of the adults’ machinations, a young girl tries to shield a fragile creature from the hurts of the world. Artistic Director Simon Godwin directs Henrik Ibsen‘s unflinching tale about truth’s tragic toll in a timeless story “that explains why Ibsen is the greatest dramatist after Shakespeare” (The Guardian). “The Wild Duck” is at the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theater, 450 Seventh St. NW, from Oct. 18 to Nov. 16. shakespearetheatre.org.
From Friday to Sunday, Oct. 10–12, 6 to 9 p.m., sample wines from Virginia vineyards at George Washington’s estate. Bring a blanket or chair for the east lawn’s Potomac River views, enjoy live music by Bruce Ewan and the Solid Senders, and tour the Mansion at night—a rare chance to see the New Room, servants’ hall, kitchen, and study, open until 8:30 p.m. Tickets: $61 Friday; $66 Saturday; $50 Sunday. mountvernon.org.
On Sunday, Nov. 2, 5 p.m., at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 945 G St. NW, experience Undas, the Filipino version of the “day of the dead” in a very real way. The tradition of Undas includes going to the cemetery and bringing food to celebrate life. The experience begins with a “pre-concert” reception with Filipino food and altars for concert-goers to bring pictures of loved ones who have passed. Afterwards, experience music with the Choral Arts Chamber Ensemble that presents the feelings of love, loss, grief, acceptance, and celebration of life. General admission is $75. choralarts.org.
Jon Batiste is a five-time Grammy Award-winning and Academy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and composer. He released his eighth studio album, Beethoven Blues (Batiste Piano Series, Vol. 1), last November. Marking the first installment in his new solo piano series, the project showcases Batiste’s interpolations of some of Beethoven’s most iconic works, reimagined through an expansive lens. From 2015 until 2022, Batiste served as the bandleader and musical director of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on CBS. Jon Batiste’s The Big Money Tour with Andra Day and Diana Silvers is at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, Oct. 31, 8 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) Tickets start at $73. theanthemdc.com.
From “Succession” writer Miriam Battye comes a razor sharp, not-quite-romantic comedy about the absurdity of modern dating in the seemingly endless quest to find “the one.” After matching online, a man and a woman meet for a date. Although they start off on the (very) wrong foot, they slowly begin to let down their guard in the hope that this time they’ve found something real. Bold, bitingly funny and achingly poignant, this play explores love, loneliness, and lying to (and about) ourselves in the age of swiping. “Strategic Love Play” is at Signature Theater, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, through Nov. 9. Tickets start at $47. sigtheatre.org.
On Saturday, Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m., Midori returns to Sixth and I, 600 I St. NW, with pianist Ieva Jokubaviciute for a program that traverses lyricism, passion, and brilliance. Anchored by Beethoven’s radiant “Spring” Sonata, the recital interweaves romantic nuance in the works of Clara and Robert Schumann, Poulenc’s bold contrasts, and the virtuosic sweep of Schubert’s Rondo Brillante – all brought to life with Midori’s musical insight and expressive power. $69, including fees. sixthandi.org.
by Andrew Lightman
Wouldn’t it be nice to fly a date to Ibiza? Skip the hassles of boarding passes and airport security! At El Techo at 606 Florida Ave. NW, enjoy a little taste of the Ibiza vibe, just steps from the Howard Theatre.
El Techo is truly a little oasis, with high ceilings festooned with hanging plants offset by enormous, street-facing windows. An ingeniously engineered set of shutters are opened on sultry summer eves, making El Techo a “treehouse” bar.
Music is in the air. Bartenders mix drinks at a long bar faced with attractive tile. The tops of the modern tables sport a similar motif and are punctuated with huge potted plants. The ambience is airy and tropical, making El Techo the perfect place for a date or a party.
Typical Mexican dishes grace El Techo’s very affordable menu. Three substantial tacos may be had for just
under $20. The tacos arrive filled with mojito chicken, shrimp, pork carnitas or carne asada. There are vegetarian options as well.
Everything is house-made, down to the tortillas and the pickled vegetables. The kitchen’s chef is a decade resident of the kitchen. In fact, the restaurant and its sister taqueria Rito Loco below employ two entire families.
Chase the tacos down with a variety of mixed drinks. These can be had by the glass, the pitcher or “the skull.” Who can resist a guava Collins, spicy mezcalita or a watermelon margarita?
Bourbon sours and a full selection of Mexican beers are available for the less adventurous.
Tuesdays, tacos are a dollar a pop all night with purchase of adult beverages. Happy hour rules Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m., with three-dollar tacos and $25 pitchers, not to mention other items
Hungry after a show at the 9:30
Club? El Techo’s kitchen stays open until midnight on weekends.
El Techo is a place to “just have a good time,” said proprietor Louie Hankins.
“I have a Jerry Maguire story,” explained Hankins. Son of a single parent who was a schoolteacher, he grew up in Vienna, Virginia. As a working class kid attending a privileged suburban high school, he dreamed about owning a car.
“If you think about getting one
for your 16th birthday, you got to buy it yourself,” he recalled.
Fortunately, Hankins grandfather, a retired, 37-year Navy veteran who lived next door, took him under his wing. Although legally blind, he taught Hankins the ins and outs of auto mechanics. His grandfather also inculcated in Hankins resiliency and the value of hard work, teaching him to drive in the Wolf Trap parking lot.
At age 14, Hankins went to work mowing lawns, selling his
service door-to-door, ultimately saving $6,000. With the aid of his grandfather, he bought his rst car at auction and rehabbed it himself. Investing the proceeds of his rst venture, he began ipping cars. e returns, matched dollar for dollar by his grandfather, paid for four years at Virginia Tech.
During college, Hankins fell in love with house music. He travelled down to Miami for spring break in 1999 with friends. At 8 in the morning, there were 2,000 people in line at one of the clubs and another 400 on the outdoor patio, he recalled. Walking in, he was oored by the vibe.
After college, Hankins sold homes for builders in Northern Virginia. When the 2008 crash put a stop to construction, he took up his girlfriend’s invitation to join her on the Spanish island paradise of Ibiza.
The Ibiza Vibe Hankins fell in love with Ibiza. e island’s 15,000 capacity clubs literary shook with house music. He found the sunny weather and beautiful beaches to be perfection. Delicious food and cheap bars completed the equation. Despite lacking any Spanish or a GPS, he drove an illegal cab to pay for food and lodging. Opening a taqueria in this paradise became a dream.
Hankins returned to the US determined to make enough money to open a restaurant in Ibiza. After a failed healthcare startup, he went back to selling homes. One Monday, he was sitting in a sales meeting, listening to his manager drone on. Asked for his plan to meet quota, he stood up and “peaced out.” He called a friend and together they started Rito Loco, a food truck selling “ritos” (aka burritos).
In 2011, Rito Loco was named best in DC by Forbes. In 2015, after months of struggling with permits and construction,
Hankins opened a brick and mortar taqueria named Rito Loco at 606 Florida Ave. NW. is 900 square foot, eight-seat carryout is still going strong.
Yet dreams of Ibiza continued to haunt Hankins. Winning a Great Streets grant from the city, he created a 1,200 square foot rooftop bar above Rito Loco, designed to mimic those of his beloved island. After three years of construction, El Techo opened its doors in 2017. e lively bar was a hit, although it caused noise complaints from residential neighbors.
In 2022, the city severely circumscribed El Techo’s ability to host live music and DJs and he decided to transform his tropical treehouse into “a family restaurant.”
“ is is a really great place,” Hankins said. “Our margs are good and our tacos are awesome.” All still served with “the Ibiza Vibe.”
El Techo is located at 606 Florida Ave. NW on the second oor. For more information, visit www. eltechodc.com. ◆
by Andrew Lightman
The fresh, floral fragrance greets visitors immediately upon entrance to Lee’s Flower And Card Shop at 1026 U St. NW. An attractive front counter is framed by greeting cards and fronted by bountiful bouquets. To the right, customers may peruse attractive shelves of flowers and house plants.
The orchids and day lily arrangements particularly catch the eye. The shop has literally hundreds of varieties, most of which are held safely in a room-sized cooler. The shop sources them from local wholesalers, many of whom they have done business with for decades.
To left of the counter behind shelves of flowers is where the true magic happens. There, a dedicated staff of talented designers crafts
beautiful floral arrangements.
“Flowers are for the moment. They give us joy while they are in bloom. They lift our spirits,” said Kristie Lee Jones. Jones and her sister Stacie Lee Banks are the current owners of Lee’s.
Can’t tell a daisy from a violet? Not to worry.
Start with the recipient’s favorite color, advised Jones in our interview. While we chatted, she arranged two dozen small bouquets incorporating autumnal colors for a coming wedding. You would be surprised at the number of people who have been married for 30 or 40 years, who don’t know their partner’s favorite flower or color, she said laughing. Jones enjoys assisting them. She and her designers are
careful to stay up on current trends and colors, while also taking seasonal variations into account in their recommendations or arrangements.
Often customers arrive with photos they like from Pinterest or magazines. Lee’s designers can mimic the arrangement or build on the composition. “There is always a new trend,” Jones said. Peonies are her personal favorite.
Despite its modern interior, Lee’s Flowers and Card Shop is a third generation, Black, family-owned business. Founded in 1945 by Jones’ grandparents, the original store was located at 918 U St. NW. In 1968, it moved to its current location. During the riots that year in the wake of the assassination
of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., displaying a sign that read “Soul Brother” allowed the store to escape the worst of the destruction. It also survived the disruption of the construction of Metro’s Green Line, which tanked many other businesses.
Jones and her sister grew up in the store, which their father Richard ran full-time while their mother worked for the phone company. Unlike most kids who sell lemonade or deliver papers to make a few dollars, they started working in the shop in their early teens. While Banks went to Howard, Jones followed in her mother’s footsteps, working at the phone company for 16 years. When she left and returned to the store, she focused on the office and customer service side. “One
day, I got bored and decided to play with the flowers,” Jones recalled. She has been designing arrangements ever since.
When their father’s retired in 2012, the two sisters took over the business. Jones handles the day-today operations, while Banks runs the back office and manages their vendors. Banks is also dedicated to her community work. She is an active member of the DC Chamber of Commerce, which awarded her its Small Business Person of the Year award in 2018. She has represented Ward 3 on the DC Commission of the Arts and Humanities since 2015. Jones is also committed to community service, currently serving as a Shaw Main Streets board member.
The pandemic was good for business, said Jones. People sent flowers to folks they were unable to visit. In 2023, the two expanded with a kiosk at Union Station, run by Bank’s daughter. Jones’s children also work in the business, ensuring that the city’s, and likely the nation’s, oldest florist will endure and flourish well into the current century.
For more information or to order online, visit leesflowersdc.com. u
by Sarah Payne
Outside the KIPP DC Shaw Campus at 421 P St. NW a bright blue box draws a crowd of eager students. e small structure, lled with books, is at a perfect height for even the youngest scholars to leave copies of their favorite stories in exchange for an endless array of new adventures.
Inspired by his love of reading and the many Little Free Libraries in his own neighborhood, 13-year-old Parker Vogelstein set out to create a way for students across the District to share their favorite books. For his bar mitz-
vah service project, Vogelstein worked for nine months to bring his vision to life on the campus.
Vogelstein helped students kick o the school year in September with a brand-new miniature library. He painted, assembled and installed the structure before lling it with books. “I’ve always loved reading, and it just seemed like a great way for people to share books,” Vogelstein said of his inspiration for the project.
Many of the books came from generous bar mitzvah guests who donated their favorite titles
to these students. Vogelstein also partnered with Wonderland Books, a local independent bookstore in Bethesda, to provide additional books. In total, more than 200 books were donated.
An unexpected discovery of clay beneath the mulch at the school made the setup an arduous task. e project involved hours of unexpected chiseling, drilling and hammering, according to Vogelstein. With perseverance, and the help of his family, he completed the structure and met with students on campus to share the library’s rst set of books.
Watching her son overcome obstacles and see the project through to completion, Parker’s mom Rachel Vogelstein said, was incredibly rewarding. “I’m really proud of his desire to share his love of reading, education and the little libraries that he grew up getting to read from with others in the community,” she said.
Reading, learning and education are core pillars of the school’s mission making it a perfect home for the new li-
brary. “We want to continue to ensure that our students are engaging in books and in learning,” KIPP DC Lead Academy Shaw Principal Lauren Hilliard said.
The Lead Academy serves elementary students in grades one through four at the school. Not only is reading an important component of their curriculum, it’s also a way to help students grow, Hilliard said, emphasizing their efforts to “make reading fun.” The school’s educators hope that the library will continue to inspire a love of reading and learning for both students and community members. Hilliard hopes that the joy of reading, learning and sharing will stretch beyond the walls of the school and find its way into the homes of neighbors, emphasizing the importance of “community partnership” for the school.
Students were “really excited” about getting new books on installation day but are also delighted by the opportunity to share their favorites with friends and strangers, Hilliard said. With that, Vogelstein’s goal for all students to “read and share” their favorite titles has already been achieved.
Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u
by Pleasant Mann
The sights and sounds of the annual Art All Night Shaw festival returned on the night of Saturday, September 13. e free overnight festival, inspired by Paris’ Nuit Blanche, began in Shaw in 2011 and now spans all eight DC wards and two nights.
e center of the action was in front of the Carnegie Library on the 700-800 blocks of K Street, NW, where Shaw Main Streets partnered with Events DC and the Downtown DC Business Improvement District to present District of Champions, a
celebration of DC art, culture and competition. Baseball, football, hockey and soccer interactive amusements were enjoyed by children of all ages, along with free food. Batala Washington, the internationally known women’s drumming troupe, marched around the Carnegie Library before giving a rousing performance. Members of the Hung Tao Choy Mei Leadership Institute demonstrated an Asian lion dance in illuminated costumes, followed by a dragon dance. Jennifer Stephens lit up the event with her combination of soap bubbles and ames. Kids frolicked in Foamboree’s mountains of foam bubbles. e always-
popular Do It Yourself Paint Experience led by art instructor Sydney Bu alow saw tables and chairs set up for 100, along with canvases and paints, with over 300 amateur artists
demonstrating their creative skills under the stars.
On the east side of K Street, a Main Stage showcased performers, including electric cellist Wytold with guitarist Jerry Tolk and the Chuck Brown Go-Go Band with Bongo District. Perhaps the most compelling stage act came from Cirque du Soleil contortionist Aleksei Goloborodko, who rushed over from his company’s performance in Tysons Corner to amaze the Art All Night Shaw crowd with the unbelievable
twists of his body.
On Anthem Row, formerly known as TechWorld Plaza, a huge art market was set up, with dozens of local DMV artists displaying and o ering their work for sale. At the end of the row, DJs Harry Hotter and Jahsonic kept the beat going through the night. Painter Kateri Garcia defeated all contenders to win the Visuel Society Brush Battle championship belt. Would-be artists grabbed brushes and added color to a 4’ x 8’ mural celebrating the “District of Champions” theme, led by Josue Martinez of Corinto Gallery.
Up on the 600 block of T Street, Right Proper Brewpub hosted a family-friendly block party, with live music from a variety of bands, a pop-up clothing market and a live mural painting demonstration by local artists. At the end of the block, the C3W professional wrestlers held a set of dramatic matches that held the crowd in thrall. e Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Neighborhood Library had face painting and craft workshops for kids and adults. Outside the library, the Hung Tao Choy Mei dancers and bubble artist Jennifer Stevens gave encore performances.
Other Shaw businesses also contributed to the festivities.
e Pop Fizz Bar had the Herb Scott ensemble playing live jazz.
e Foundry Gallery held an open mike and art show, while the Eighteenth Street Lounge and Wanda’s on 7th Salon set up DJs for the night. Wanda’s also presented paintings by Cary Michael Robinson and Sean Diesel. One Compass Co ee in Shaw sponsored a DJ, while another had a demonstration of painting with espresso led by barista Chandi Shani Mahendra. Beau ai Shaw had customers color commemorative postcards, while Lee’s Flower and Card Shop trained over 100 visitors to make
oral crowns to wear during the festival, with DJ Juan’s tunes in the background.
e night ended with Team Rayceen’s ever-popular LGBTQIA+ showcase at Sandlot Uptown (1900 Seventh Street NW). e new facility provided a Rito Loco food truck and benches outdoors, while Team Rayceen provided a steady stream of music, poetry and comedy entertainment. e evening closed with the dynamic Midnight Shaw Mini Ball, where extroverted amateurs competed for prizes in categories such as Best Dressed Spectator and Best Runway Model (American or European style).
Art All Night Shaw 2025 was presented by Shaw Main Streets with funding from the District’s Department of Small and Local Business Development and its Main Streets program, along with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.
Sponsors included Art Box DC, Beyond Studio, Capital Community News, DC Housing Finance Agency, the Downtown DC Business Improvement District, Events DC, Friends of the Watha T. Daniel Library, HedRush, the Langston Apartments, Lee’s Flower and Card Shop, Miller Copying Service, Right Proper Shaw Brewpub, and U Street Parking. ◆
by Pleasant Mann
Wednesday morning, September 17 saw the grand opening of the Hyatt House Washington DC Convention Center Hotel at 899
O Street NW. The hotel, formerly a Cambria Hotel, was bought by a new owner, Frontier Development and Hospitality Group, and after renovations, came under a new flag, Hyatt Hotels. It now features suites that include kitchens, designed for extended business stays. It will also have a new restaurant, Realm, that will open on the top floor in mid-October.
At the opening, Frontier CEO
Evens Charles related that the hotel was a personal project for him. He was born and raised in the District, before going to college in Philadelphia and starting a career there as an entrepreneur. Charles was followed by Nina Albert, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, who pointed to the fact that the hotel represented Mayor Bowser’s effort to diversify the District’s economy, saying that Washington as a destination for sports and entertainment is already “guaranteed economic activity.”
Other speakers stressing the im-
portance of the hotel included Tammy Jones, CEO, Basis Investment Group; Jim Tierney, Senior Vice President of Hyatt Hotels; and Henok Tesfaye, an investor in the hotel. After the dignitaries cut a ribbon opening the new Hyatt House, they took a tour of the newly renovated rooms of the hotel.
Gretchen Wharton, a life-long Shaw resident and community leader, received an award from DC Mayor Muriel Bowser at the presentation of this year’s Mayor’s Art Awards. Wharton has been on the DC Commission for the Arts and Humanities since 2011 and has most recently served as the commission’s vice chair, as well as board chair for Shaw Main Streets. She won the Mayor’s Art Award for Distinguished Honor for her work in expanding the Art All Night event from a neighborhood festival in Shaw to a two-day activity in all eight wards of
the District. In her remarks, Wharton said that “I’m a native Washingtonian, been here all my life, went to DC public schools and I never plan on leaving. Art All Night is something that we should all applaud ourselves for since it has been a tremendous success.”
Orgullo Salvi DMV, a group of local Salvadoran Americans trying to uplift the community, celebrated El Salvador Independence Day at Shaw’s Corinto Gallery, September 26. The special guest at the event was Florence Gisselle Garcia, Miss El Salvador in the 2024 Miss Universe contest. She expressed her enthusiasm for living in the DMV, where Salvadorians make up the largest component of the Latino community. Then Corinto Galley owner Josue Martinez talked about his approach to art and his work with local sports teams, the Commanders, the Capitals and now the Nationals.
Meeting on Ward 2 Senior Center
e DC Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) held a Town Meeting at New Bethel Baptist Church the evening of September 23 on the e ort to create senior wellness centers in Wards 2 and 3. ey are currently the only wards in the District that do not have senior centers for the use of older residents.
e Town Hall started with DACL Director Charon Hines explaining that the DC Council directed in 2022 that a study be conducted on the feasibility of bringing senior centers to both wards and established a task force to manage the study.
Shaw architect Ronnie McGhee gave the group a summary of the preferences that the Task Force had received from the community. In previous meetings, Ward 2 seniors gave the highest number of votes for tness spaces and a group exercise studio in a senior center, closely followed by lifelong learning areas and multipurpose classrooms. Other highly rated desires for a center included a café/social lounge, computer training, recreational programs and outdoor wellness spaces. e feasibility process also established a Trusted Advisory Group to determine suitable sites for a senior wellness center. ey identi ed ve sites in Ward 2: 1827 –1829 Wiltberger Street NW, 918 F Street NW, 2029 K Street NW, 1331 –1333 G Street NW and 1130 17th Street NW. However, when the feasibility groups ranked the sites based on their characteristics, the Trusted Advisory Group ranked the Wiltberger site as the best, while the Task Force put Wiltberger on the bottom in terms of desirability. Eventually, the feasibility study will be published for review by the mayor and DC Council. ere is already money set aside in the District’s capital budget for the Ward 2 Senior Wellness Center. ◆
Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 2G held its monthly meeting for September on Thursday evening, September 11, 2025. The meeting was held as a virtual conference. Commission Chair Steven McCarty (2G04) called the meeting to order. Commissioners Howard Garrett (2G01, Vice Chair), Alexander M. “Alex” Padro (2G02), Nicole Shea (2G03, Secretary), Sheena Berry (2G05) and Rachelle Nigro (2G06, Treasurer) were in attendance.
Third Police District. Captain Nathaniel Porter of the ird Police District reported that there had been no major incidents in ANC 2G. However, the previous homicide of a Congressional intern on Seventh Street had been closed with arrests.
Update on U Street Performance Parking Zone. Christophe Wassmer from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) presented the status of the U Street Performance Parking Zone. e zone established a system of oating parking rates along the U Street commercial corridor and neighboring streets based on curbside demand. e highest rates are expected to be from 9:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. e funds from parking are expected to support improvements in the corridor. ere are 15 timelapse cameras set up in the area to gauge curbside demand. e cameras will be re-
by Pleasant Mann
moved at the end of October.
Commissioner Berry said that she appreciated the intent of the program and asked how it got started. Commissioner Padro asked what the current revenue from the program was and noted that a similar program near the Washington Nationals baseball park failed to generate any signicant revenue.
T Street Task Force. Phil omas of the Executive O ce of the Mayor, who serves as chair of the T Street Task Force, gave an update of its e orts to improve conditions around the intersection of Seventh and T Streets NW. He said that the task force has enhanced lighting on T Street and removed parking on the east side of the 1900 block of Seventh Street NW. e unsavory activities seen in the area have decreased since the beginning of summer, although some of this has moved to other parts of the neighborhood.
Public Space Application, 501 New York Avenue NW. A request from the Department of General Services to support a public space application for the construction at 501 New York Avenue NW of a controversial new temporary Central Cellblock for the Department of Corrections. Commissioner Nigro argued that the commission should not support the application for reasons of
safety and historic preservation. e ANC voted unanimously to not support the application.
Alcohol Licensing. e commission supported the renewal of Class C Tavern licenses for Dacha Beer Garden (1600 Seventh Street NW) and Ivy and Coney (1537 Seventh Street NW) in unanimous votes.
Resolution Condemning Federal Overreach. A motion was made for the commission to pass a resolution condemning what was termed the overreach of Federal government forces in the District of Columbia, while also demanding the release of DC budget funds that had been frozen by recent Congressional action. Commissioner Nigro said her constituents did not oppose the increased federal presence. Commissioner Padro said that many of his constituents did oppose it and that the heightened presence had discouraged local foot tra c, with restaurants reporting a severe decrease in business. e motion passed with 4 yeas, 0 nays, 2 abstentions.
ANC 2G will hold its next meeting on Thursday, November 13. The meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. Plans are to hold this meeting as a virtual conference. Visit www.anc2g.org for more information. ◆
Logan Flea Opens
On the rst Sunday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Barrel House Café and Bar, 1341 14th St. NW, discover a treasure trove of vintage clothes, vinyl records, books, and quirky collectibles at Logan Flea, Logan Circle’s new neighborhood community-focused ea market. is market o ers a fun, curated shopping experience lled with one-of-a-kind nds, local creators, and a vibrant neighborhood vibe. Enjoy DJ tunes while sipping co ee or other o erings from Barrel House Café & Bar, making your shopping experience both lively and relaxing.
Weekly Runs with DRC (District Running Collective)
Meet the District Running Collective at the Plaza at Union Market, 1325 Fifth St. NE, for their weekly community runs every Wednesday night, 6:30 to 8 p.m., and Saturday morning, 8 to 10
e Washington Nationals have released their 2026 schedule, highlighted by a home-opening series against the Dodgers, the traditional July 4 game in the nation’s capital, and a threegame set with the Yankees to close the rst half. Washington opens the season on the road against the Chicago Cubs on ursday, March 26, before hosting Los Angeles on Friday, April 3. Ticket plans for the 2026 season are on sale now, guaranteeing access to Opening Day. More information is available at mlb.com/nationals/schedule.
a.m. All levels are welcome. DRC members support one another up every hill, across every bridge, and through each painstaking mile. Whether you’re new to running or training for something big, you’re in good company. RSVP links are on their website. If anything changes, they’ll post updates on the RSVP page and in their weekly Instagram yers. districtrunningcollective.com.
access to both oors of the exhibition galleries are included in the $25 ticket price. Attendees must be 21+ to attend and show a valid ID with birthdate at the door. americanart.si.edu/events/handi-houroctober-16-2025.
On ursday, Oct. 16, 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Avenue at 17th Street NW, celebrate autumn at DC’s original crafting happy hour. Create miniature polymer clay pies and explore the exhibition, State Fairs: Growing American Craft. Enjoy live music by local folk duo, Beyond the Wall, and cider and beer provided by ANXO. Light snacks, crafting materials, two drinks, and after-hours
Founded in 1958, the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS) is one of North America’s most prestigious equestrian events. Held Oct. 20–26 at e Show Place Arena, 14900 Pennsylvania Ave. in Upper Marlboro, WIHS features top horses and riders from around the world competing in jumper, hunter, and equitation events. Spectators enjoy the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Washington for the President’s Cup, WIHS Equitation Finals, Shetland Pony Steeplechase, and themed nights like Kids’ Day, Barn Night, and Military Night. e show also includes exhibitions, boutique shopping, and ringside hospitality. wihs.org.
On Saturday, Oct. 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at MLK Library, 901 G St. NW, you will be introduced to how to use video conferencing platforms such as Zoom. Attendees will explore basic features for attending and hosting meetings. Seats are limited to 16 participants and will be lled on
ing meetings. dclibrary.org.
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
DC Open Doors
homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
DC Open Doors
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust
homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages.You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.
DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership inthe city. is programo ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst-time home buyer program.
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District governmentbased instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
COVID-19
COVID-19
DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
COVID-19
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
The DC4ME VA Loan Product is a VA mortgage product offered by the District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (DCHFA). In addition to the traditional VA benefits, like no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance, this product includes 3% assistance, funded by DCHFA, that can be used toward eligible closing costs or prepaid items. This makes the DC4ME VA Loan Product one of the most affordable and accessible loan options for qualified military-connected borrowers.
DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.
www.DCHFA.org
About Bats in the District
Learn about DC’s bats at this free Halloween event on Saturday, Oct. 25, 1 to 2 p.m., at MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. Local expert Dr. Kelly Russo-Petrick, Ph.D., Project Specialist in Urban Ecology at UDC, will discuss her research on bats across the city, including those on the library’s green rooftop. Registration is encouraged but walkins are welcome. dclibrary.org.
The grey-headed ying fox.
On Friday, Nov. 14, 6 to 8 p.m., at Heurich House Museum, 1307 New Hampshire Ave. NW, participants will make up to three distinct items to wear using recycled bicycle parts. Learn how to make a belt from a tire & chain and a bow tie (or hair bow) and keychain from inner tubes. Sip on local craft beverages from the museum’s biergarten, 1921 while you work on products. $45 per person. All supplies included. Take home your belt, bowtie and/or keychain. Founded in 2023, Cycle Killer Accessories is a veteran-owned business dedicated to making art and wearables from recycled materials, namely used bike parts. heurichhouse.org.
On Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., join Planet Word, 925 13th St. NW (entrance on K Street), for their Wordiversary and Community Day, celebrating ve years of inspiring a love of words, language, and reading for communities near and
far. Listen to gallery pop-up talks from curatorial sta , participate in live experiments by the Language Science Station, relax with word games, tasty treats, and music in their Wordplay Lounge, and enter for a chance to win exciting ra e prizes such as a free Lexicon Lane experience and more. wordplaymuseum.org.
The Haunted Library: Live ghost stories!
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 7 to 8 p.m., answer the question. Are you brave enough to sit through scary stories told in the library? Come to the Haunted Library, if you dare, for an hour of scary stories told by professional storytelling haints and ghouls, brought to you by Better Said an Done. Bring snacks and hot beverages and join us on the First Floor of the MLK Library, 901 G St. NW. Content is rated for ages 13+. bettersaidthandone.org.
e Ultimate Queer Game Show is a comedy show hosted by e Carmichaels (comedians Krystal & Samiyyah Ali) that will pit two teams competing for the Queer Championships. On Tuesday, Oct. 21, 8 p.m., at the DC Arts Center, 2438 18th St. NW, get ready for a night of Queer trivia, Queer news, and tons of laughs. dcartscenter.org.
Beyond the Frame: An Inside Look at the Portrait Gallery
Curious about the inner workings of a museum? Ever wondered how conservators care for centuries-
The Howard Theatre Upgrades Solar Energy and Efficiency
DC Green Bank and DC Sustainable Energy Utility have partnered with the Howard eatre Development Group to install new solar and HVAC systems that will save the historic theater nearly $2 million over their lifetimes. e upgrades were nanced by a $775,000 loan from DC Green Bank and more than $35,000 in DCSEU incentives. e new HVAC system will cut heating and cooling use by about 40 percent, and the solar and battery system will reduce utility costs by roughly $21,000 per year. e Howard eatre, 620 T St. NW, is the oldest U.S. theater built for African American entertainment and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. e project also received a $700,500 African American Civil Rights Grant from the National Park Service through the DC Preservation League. unionstagepresents.com/the-howard.
Night of the Living Zoo
e Zoo’s adult-only Halloween party returns for two nights—Friday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 25, 6 to 11 p.m.—with an extra “witching hour” of ghoulish fun. Guests enjoy after-hours access to the Reptile Discovery Center and Great Cats exhibits (6 to 9:30 p.m.), plus an open cocktail bar, circus cats, temporary tattoos, glitter constellations, silhouette artists, photo booths, DJs, and live music by White Ford Bronco and Billy “T” Wilde. Tickets are $80; parking is $30. nationalzoo.si.edu.
old artworks or how lighting designers illuminate exhibitions? On Tuesday, Oct. 21, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., peek behind the curtain at the National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and G streets NW, and hear from sta who work behind the scenes to bring their collection to life. Meet in the G Street lobby. Free but registration required at npg.si.edu/adult-programs.
e Mid-city DC Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. Do you have a notice for the Bulletin Board? Send it to bulletinboard@hillrag.com. ◆
Dead Man’s Run, Congressional Cemetery’s annual fall 5k fundraiser, is on Sunday, Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m. The race starts inside the cemetery and continues onto the Anacostia Trail for a ghostly evening run full of spooky music and other fun. The race fee is $40. There is also a children’s race prior to the start of the 5k. Participation in the children’s run is free for any child who has a parent, guardian, or friend registered for the 5k. Children may still participate, if no runners are registered, for a $5 fee. Registration for the children’s race is in the chapel the day of the race and a parent or guardian must sign a waiver. Registration and packet pickup opens at 3:30 p.m. Congressional Cemetery is at 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org.
On Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW, children and adults will learn sideby-side with roofers, plumbers, designers, artisans, and more in this free, hands-on festival celebrating the world we design and build. Kids of all ages will explore a wide variety of unique, interactive activities from professions including plumbing, home remodeling, construction, woodworking, and many more. The Museum’s Great Hall will be lled with dozens of booths with activities such as wiring a light, pouring concrete, and hammering nails. Everyone will have the opportunity to use real tools and even climb inside construction equipment like a crane at the outdoor Truck Petting Zoo. Storytimes throughout the day will inspire younger visitors to explore the world and nd their place within it. Free admission. nbm.org.
National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, announces the return of the world’s most beloved #1 blue engine to their Visiting Exhibit Hall. Through Jan. 4, Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails! invites guests to explore the whimsical Island of Sodor as they play their way through interactive experiences inspired by the popular animated series featuring Thomas the Tank Engine and his locomotive friends. It is targeted for ages two to seven. Tickets to the museum are $18.95 for adults and children one and older and are free for children under one. nationalchildrensmuseum.org.
The city is safe with the help of a unique cellist: professional musician by day, superhero by night. The day begins as usual--from waking up in the morning, to traveling to rehearsal, to getting ready for a concert… but things take a turn when robots and aliens try to take over the music hall. It’s up to Super Cello to use the soothing power of music to save the day. Super Cello! unites puppet artist Scottie Rowell and NSO cellist David Teie to tell a wordless story using puppets, props, and plenty of original music. Super Cello! on Saturday, Oct. 18, at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 19, 1:30 and 4 p.m., is most enjoyed by ages ve+. Tickets are $25 and $26. kennedy-center.org.
On Friday, Oct. 31, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., at Eastern Market, get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at Hilloween, the ultimate community event that delivers extra-spooky thrills and shriek-inducing excitement for
families and kids of all ages. You can be part of the spine-chilling festivities including pumpkin carving, a dance party with DJ, Zumba and more. For 20 years, Hilloween has been a cherished tradition. It’s a chance for kids of all ages to show their creativity,
PK3-5th
• We prioritize a comprehensive education approach and redefine student achievement through our membership in the EL Education partnership.
• Our curriculum accommodates multilingual learners programs through a diverse range of interests and courses such as Visual Arts, Music, Spanish, Performing Arts, and Technology.
• Our Before Care, After School, Meridian Clubs and Athletics programs provide students with opportunities to explore their interests and discover their path in life.
dress up, play, and make some of the best, most exciting memories of their childhood and it’s a chance for parents to meet, relax, have a laugh, and connect with friends. hilloweendc.com.
On Saturday, Oct. 25; skate until 10 p.m. and enjoy the featured DJ or band. Events last throughout the day and include double dutch, lawn games, job fairs, boat trips and more. You can also skate anytime at Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion--the one and only roller-skating rink in the National Park Service. nps.gov/anac.
Art in the A.M. at SAAM
On Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 10:30 a.m., inspire early childhood creativity with the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and G streets NW, during Art in the A.M. Children ages up to ve years and their caregivers are invited to the museum before hours to learn, connect, and create in the galleries. During this program,
participants will take a journey through the seasons by exploring the exhibition Grandma Moses: A Good Day’s Work. Afterward, participants will craft their own Grandma Moses-inspired greeting cards. americanart.si.edu.
On Mondays, Oct. 6, 20 and 27, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., children and families are invited to learn, play and create at the National Portrait Gallery, Eighth and F streets NW. Join educators every Monday as they explore a variety of topics and artistic materials. Participants will get a closer look at art with handson activities, music and story times. Portrait Gallery Kids is a fun way to engage with art and each other. Free; no registration required. npg.si.edu.
The Washington International Horse Show Kids’ Day on Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain or shine), is a free, fun, and educational event created to share the joy of horses with kids. It features pony grooming and rides, face painting, a horseless horse show, a mini pony kissing booth, a chance to meet the steeplechase Shetlands, a photo op with WIHS mascot Major and special guest horses and ponies. Enjoy the activities outside, then come into the arena to watch the competition in action. All events are free. Parking is free and has easy access to all Kids’ Day activities. WIHS Kids’ Day is at the Prince George’s Equestrian Center, 14900 Pennsylvania Ave., Upper Marlboro, MD. wihs.org/kids-day.
Boo at the Zoo, the National Zoo’s beloved family-friendly event, is back Oct. 17, 18 and 19, from 6 to 9 p.m. (last entry 8:30 p.m.). Put on your favorite costume and ex- plore the Zoo after hours, collecting treats at 30 trick-or-treat stations throughout the park. Watch as animals enjoy jacko’-lanterns and other spooky enrichment surprises, and stroll past whimsical Halloween scenes featuring skeletons and fantastical creatures along the main walkway. Admission is $35; and $30 for parking. nationalzoo.si.edu.
On Saturday, Oct. 26, 2 to 6 p.m. (rain or shine), collect candy around the historic grounds and celebrate Halloween with 18th-century entertainment and activities. You can also take a sel e, join the costume parade, greet General Washington, stop by the shop for a free children’s gift, hear 18th century live music and learn about 18th century magic. Adults (12+), $30; kids, $25. mountvernon.org.
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, 4 to 8 p.m., join the NoMa Business Improvement District at Alethia Tanner Park, 227 Harry Thomas Way NE, for live entertainment, food, music, and of course, their “pick-your-own” pumpkin patch. nomabid.org.
On Saturday, Oct. 25, noon to 2 p.m., celebrate the fall season with creativity. Join the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901
Fort. Pl. SE, for a festive Pumpkin Decorating Workshop, perfect for families, friends, and neighbors of all ages. Instead of carving, guests will have the option to paint pumpkins with bold patterns, whimsical characters, or abstract designs or adorn them with dried owers and greenery for a more modern and elegant touch. All materials are provided—just bring your imagination and fall spirit. anacostia.si.edu.
On Friday, Oct. 24, 6 to 8 p.m., explore plants that produce edible fruits throughout the US Botanic Garden Conservatory during this fun evening program for families. Hear stories about what makes each plant interesting, learn about the environments they grow in, and experience the fruits with all of your senses--including taste. Costumes are highly encouraged. Free, but pre-registration is required. usbg.gov. ◆