VOICE This Month Fabulous 12 Celebrating the 4th! 14 A Hot Dog PrimerFourth food 16 Baseball in DC: Crying Foul? and festivities... 18 Ah-Choo! What to Do Capitol Hill 20 Fixing Your Flivver style 22 Futuristic Fuel: Closer than You Think 24 The Green(grocer)ing of H Street 26 Do You Know What's Good for You? 28 VSAarts Festival: Non stop Entertainment 29 Sailing the Other River 30 CHDS: A 35th and More 32 KidPower in Review Departments VoiceMail ............................................ 3 City Desk ............................................ 4 DownLoad .......................................... 8 Business Snapshots ......................... 10 Performing Arts Roundup ................. 34 Amazing Spaces .............................. 36 Urban Gardener ................................ 38 Computer Corner ............................. 40 Ask Judith ........................................ 42 Designing for Hearth and Home ....... 44 Armchair Movie Reviews .................. 46 Health and Fitness ............................ 48 Capitol Hill BID .................................. 49 Ask the Vet ....................................... 50 H Street Main Street ......................... 52 Barracks Row ................................... 53 Kids' Calendar .................................. 54 Kids' Sports ...................................... 56 Community Calendar ........................ 57 Horoscope ........................................ 59 Classifieds ........................................ 59 Business Services ............................. 60 Vol. 6 No. 4 July 2004 VOICE Voicemail The Voice of the Hill is published To the Editor: and distributed monthly to Capitol Response to the Phish Tea CafÇ Protest Hill residences and business loca-in the Voicemail section of the Voice of tions. The focus is on the communi-the Hill. ty and includes contiguous neighbor hoods from Gallaudet University to I am currently a resident on who lives on potential future H Street corri- business injured by the dor business owner, I'd like to mind-boggling decision know what the ramifications from a few people are if there are violations of this who may or may not agreement. I don't feel that requir-have even experi ing a new business to sign some- the Navy Yard and from the Capitol the H Street corridor in Old City. I am to the Stadium Armory Complex. very happy to see new business moving Publication and distribution is the in throughout this area. I was particular enced the restauthing like this will be conducive to entic-rant. I hope that ing further small business, especially a you agree that Phish restaurant wishing to obtain a liquor last Friday of each month. ly pleased to see the opening of the Advertising deadline is the first of Phish Tea CafÇ. Having dined there on the month preceding publication. several occasions it provides a pleasant, Tea should be able to license, to develop here. Although Mr. grow unhindered lest we lose yet anoth-Pittman's draft agreement was present-er fine business in 1300 block of H ed for a voluntary signature, I believe upscale dining experience that currently Voice of the Hill does not exist within close proximity to NOTE NEW ADDRESS! my particular community. I applaud the Street (we already lost Lisa's Shoes). As that if not signing it would result in a a homeowner a few footsteps away from prolonged delay in the establishment of the 1300 block of H, I have a strong per-normal operations for your business, sonal interest in the development of that PO Box 15874 owner for bring this wonderful restaurant most will open their businesses else Washington DC 20003-0874 to H St. After seeing the quality work and then area, as the abandoned storefronts can ware. only attract a bad element, while thriving The Alcohol Beverage Control Board businesses in the area can only add to 202-544-0703 Main office imagining the cost that went into reno-already has standards that a business our community. I hope you decide to 202-318-7806 Fax vating the building Phish Tea CafÇ is in, I must meet to be considered for a liquor help us keep Phish Tea. www.voiceofthehill.com was dismayed to read in Voicemail that license. The local ANCs add weight to editor@voiceofthehill.com there was an active protest regarding these standards and work with the com-ALAN C. PA GE bruce@voiceofthehill.com the issuance of a liquor license to this munity and ABC to help ensure those establishment. As a local resident I standards are met. We need to work on Wylie Street Properties Association (a homeowner's group) patti@voiceofthehill.com must say that I am not familiar with the enticing small business to H St. ANC H Street-Main Street volunteer adele@voiceofthehill.com protestant's Old City Capitol Hill 6A is working on doing exactly that. julia@voiceofthehill.com Neighborhood Association, it's agenda, Local residents should stop trying to To the Editor: or it's members; however, I am quite add arbitrary red tape and roadblocks in I don't wish to have my name published, Staff familiar with the elected members of the form of additional agreements and but I had to comment because I didn'tBruce Robey, WebMaster Advisory Neighborhood Council 6A. It possible restrictions. They only work to understand why their was an issue with Adele Robey, Design and Production seems to me that if members of this stifle future development and in the end the neighborhood association protesting Andrew Noyes, Editor Pro Tem community have input and recommenda-have the opposite effect. this establishment's liquor license. It is Patti Shea, Political Reporter tions regarding our community's develop-Encouraging small business to H St. one of the few establishments on H Larry Kaufer, Sports Editor ment, they should bring it first to the should be high on everyone's list of pri-Street NE that look safe and enticing. Julia Robey, Production Coordinator attention of the ANC 6A, individually or orities, not only to the members of the I am writing in support Phish Tea Scott Shumaker, Editor (on leave) via an association. From that point the local community, but the entire popula-Cafe. I guess there hasn't been that "elected representatives" of the ANC tion of the District's metropolitan area. much information provided as to why Publishers should make the decision to proceed Currently the vacant and abandoned there was a protest against their liquor Phoenix Graphics, Inc. with a positive or negative endorsement buildings up and down the NE sector of license and perhaps residents weren't T/A Voice of the Hill or seek more community input. It is my H St. present safety concerns are dens given much information to review. I live opinion that ANC 6A represents a larger for rodents, possible fire hazards, and in the area where Old City Capitol Hill Capitol Hill BID, Ready Willing and section of this community's vision for havens for all forms of illegal activity. Neighborhood Association resides. I amAble, Gospel Rescue Ministries future development then the relatively They are at the least an eyesore and will for encouraging new, vibrant, productive Distribution obscure, smaller, Old City Capitol Hill cost this community far more in the long businesses for the H Street area which Neighborhood Association. ANC 6A run then the perceived problems of an will provide quality products for the sur-Contributing Writers achieves this vision through input from upscale restaurant with a liquor license. rounding neighbors. I haven't had much Julio Arguello, Jr. Laurie Lindsay publicly announced meetings and the interest in frequenting the businesses Patty Brosmer Celeste McCall representatives' hands-on "meet and BEN A C A CIOPPO on the H Street corridor until recently. I Judith Capen Bill McLeod greet" interaction with the local resi-Captain USMC have visited Phish Tea Cafe and enjoyed Dave Francis Roger McShane dents. the service, food and atmosphere. I Mark Holler Linda Norton Due to the fact that they are elected To The Editor: plan to return. I have also enjoyed plays Jeffrey Howard Andrew Noyes representatives, are highly a ccessible, I am a homeowner on Wylie Street, one at the H Street Playhouse. The begin-Larry Kaufer Julia Robey and work in the open, I trust "them" to block north of 12th and H, and I have ning of the Farmer's Market is also a Beth Lambdin Patti Shea establish a policy of minimum communi-recently been informed by some neigh-new attraction I am interested in check-Richard Layman Fay Singer ty standards for obtaining a favorable bors that Phish Tea Cafe, a wonderful ing out that will hopefully draw some Nicole Spiridakis endorsement when applying for a liquor restaurant/lounge/art gallery, has inex-positive results. I along with other D.Y. Lee license. Unlike the Old City Capitol Hill plicably become the subject of protesta-neighbors are hoping that eventually we Jessica Leshnoff Erica Stanley Neighborhood Association, they do this tion by a handful of area residents. I will see more of a diverse mix of busithrough very public opportunities for the must urge you to defend this excellent nesses such as a coffee shop, ice entire local community to voice an opin-dining establishment which hires wait cream store, natural foods market, Memberships ion, add input, or provide feed-back. staff and hostesses from the communi-trendy clothing, etc. We need to support Capitol Hill Association of Merchants and Professionals With regards to Mr. Pittman's "Unified ty, displays artwork from local artisans, and encourage our local businesses so the area will thrive and even attract resi- Art Directors Club of Metropolitan Commercial and Residential Agreement," and provides H Street with its first high-dents from all over the city to want to as a local community member I'd like to class sit-down dining experience in Washington Barracks Row Business Alliance know what this agreement contains. years. I love the food, I enjoy the friendly patronize this shopping corridor. Does it represent the majority of this service, and I would hate to see the Independent Free Papers of SUPPORTIVE NEIGHBOR community's best interest or the inter-restaurant harmed in any way or have its America ests of a few? Will these Unified H Street Merchants Association Commercial and Residential Agreements spread to other business beyond those After a series of meetings between the interested parties, the Alcoholic requiring liquor licenses? Also, as a Beverage Regulatory Agency (ABRA) and ANC6A some progress has been made. Mediation is still taking place and a final resolution is still pending. cityDesk CO VERING THE HILL'S POLITIC AL SCENE AND MORE STORIES BY PATTI SHEA New Booze Rules Proposed by ANC 6A Commission revamps agreement process ANC 6A presented plans at its June 10 meeting for a template it will use when crafting voluntary agreements with local liquor stores. After months of public meetings, the commis-sion's alcohol licensing committee submitted draft agreements for Class A (store that sell beer, liquor and wine) and Class B (beer and wine only) licensed establishments. Items included in the drafts include: _ not to sell/provide "go-cups" to patrons . _ not to sell single servings of alcohol, malt liquor, or ale in containers less than 70 ounces . _ not to sell products associated with illegal drug activity . _ improve and maintain public space around the establishment . _ not to post signage advertising the sale of alcohol or cigarettes _ not to sell single cigarettes The panel moved to overhaul and tighten the agreements after it found itself protesting the issuance or the renewal of area store licenses that have failed to comply with such less-strict agreements. Voluntary agreements are contracts between the ANC and store owners who agree in good faith to adhere to the contract items. However, several area stores have allegedly broken the contracts and the ANC has taken its protest to the city-which has been known to last for months, even more than a year. The commission will present its draft template for CT Licenses (those issued to bars and taverns) and CR Licenses (for restaurants) at its July meeting. All of the proposed changes must be approved by the city's Alcohol Beverage Control Board. "We need to push the envelope with the ABC board," Commissioner Nick Alberti said. To see the draft agreements go to the ANC's web-site at www.anc6a.org Stop Signs Get Green Light Commissioner Cody Rice said the city's transportation department (DDOT) will install four-way stop signs at the intersections of 10th Street & Constitution Avenue, NE and 11th & I streets, NE. Rice said DDOT will further determine if a signal is needed at the 10th Street intersection. The bike lane along C Street, NE from 14th Street to Warren Place is almost done being striped, Rice announced. ANC OK'd on Kramer Home The city will install a home for troubled teens on Kramer Street, Commissioner Gladys Mack announced. Mack and the commission had been battling the city's Youth Services Administration plan to put the home at 1626 Kramer St., NE, claiming it would have a severe negative impact on the neighborhood. "They totally ignored our recommendations," Mack said. A representative from YSA wasn't present at the meeting. A follow-up call to the agency went unreturned. The home will house six female teens who will be supervised by the YSA. Mack said she was going to investigate why the YSA failed to weigh the ANC's concern upon make its decision. Commissioners Jessica Ward, Michael Musante, Cody Rice, Joseph Fengler, Nick Alberti and Gladys Mack were present. Commissioners Wanda Stevens-Harris and Colleen Harris were absent. The next meeting will begin at 7 p.m. on July 8 at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street, NE. ANC 6B OKs Zoning, Alcohol Permits Spate of outdoor seating applications approved ANC 6B approved a handful of zoning and alcohol licenses before heading into its summer break. Finn macCool's got the OK to put seating outside of its 8th Street pub-slash-eatery. There was some confusion about how many seats the tavern wanted outside, the ANC granted only enough room for 12 guests, though the applicant had stated at the meeting that he wanted 42 seats. However, commissioners said that was too ambitious of a number to squeeze into the sidewalk area, and only approved the amount request on the application with the city. The panel also approved a subsequent liquor license amendment to correspond with outdoor service of alcohol. Another 8th Street establishment, World Cuisine, also got the go ahead for outside service only on the stipulation that it not funnel music onto the patio. The commission amended the liquor licenses to the restaurant can have live, non-amplified music. Las Positas, 517 8th St., also got approval for outside seating of three tables. Again, no music can be pumped onto the patios. Finally, the Capitol Hill Tandoor & Grill, 417 8th Street, won approval to host live, non-amplified music indoors, such as a sitar player or flutist. One of the grill co-owners said the music would be on weekends. The city's public space committee has the final approval on the outdoor patio usage, but the ANC's backing is usually well regarded in these manners. M Street Rezoning Backed The panel backed a proposal by the Office of Planning to rezone M Street, SE, that will (the city hopes) attract more commercial development there. OP wants to rezone the area between 11th Street, east toward the Anacostia River from mixed use industrial/commercial (C-M-2, C-M-1, M) to general commercial use, W-3 or W-2. The commission backed the option to regulate building heights in the areas north of the Southeast Freeway to 60 feet tall-which won't rise above the current buildings on L Street. As for the rest of the land which calls for W-3 zoning, building heights could reach 90 feet. Joel Lawson from the Office of Planning said the 90 feet building height would make that portion of the waterfront more attractive to companies looking to relocate there and only impact very few landowners there. Lawson presented the plans to ANCs 6B and 6D. Owners of the incoming Maritime Plaza off M Street agreed with OP's findings and called for immediate approval of the zoning changes. The zoning commission was to hear the proposal on June 17. The outcome of that meeting wasn?t available by presstime. Commissioners Kenan Jarboe, Will Hill, Mary Wright, Keith Smith, Francis Campbell, Scott Cernich, Neil Glick and Julie Olson were present. Tell our advertisers you saw their ads in The Voice of the Hill July will be the last chance to get items on the ANC agendas before they go on summer break. ANC 6B won't meet again until September, but ANCs 6A, 6C and 6D will convene in July before recessing. The schedule is as follows: . _ ANC 6A7 p.m. on Thursday, July 8 at Miner Elementary School, 601 15th Street, NE. Phone: 423-8868 . _ ANC 6B7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 14 at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave., SE. Phone: 543-3344 . _ ANC 6C7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14 at the National Public Radio building, 635 Massachusetts Ave., NW. Phone: n/a (Note: this is a new meeting place) . _ ANC 6D7 p.m. on Monday, July 12 at the Millennium Arts Center, 65 I Street, SW. Phone: 554-1795 Commissioners Daryl Snowden and Dave Sheldon were absent. The next ANC 6B meeting will begin 7 p.m. on Sept. 14 at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave., SE. ANC 6C Postpones Medlink Rezoning Request Owner to make presentation to panel ANC 6C said it won't vote on a rezoning request for the nearly abandoned Medlink Hospital campus in Northeast until the site's owner can meet with them. Cynthia Giordano, attorney for Medlink owner Dr. Peter Shin, convinced the panel to issue the stay at the June 9 meeting after she said Shin didn't know that the rezoning request was before the commission. She said her client wasn't notified through proper channels, something the commissioners debunked. Commissioner Charley Docter said he called the-facility to get a e-mail address and fax number for Shin. Docter said he sent the notification to the addresses/number provided by a hospital staff member. The Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS) is looking to change the zoning from R5D to R4D, which lowers the building height requirement from 90 feet to 50 feet. The tallest part of the current structure is 53 feet. These restrictions would only be implemented if Shin sold the facility to a developer who razes the building. CHRS requested the change and has already won approval from ANCs 6B and 6A. Medlink, located at 708 Mass Ave., NE, is on the border of ANC 6A and 6C. Giordano didn't find out until the meeting that the two ANCs had endorsed CHRS' plans. She said Shin wanted to meet with the panel to explain his plans for the future of the site and that there wasn't a fixed timeline to adhere to. The panel agreed. Join us on faith's journey SUMMER WORSHIP SCHEDULE 8:30 and 10:00 am Free concert 12:10 pm July 15 Paul Leavitt recital ww.reformationdc.org 212 East Capitol Street 202/543-4200 Accessible to people with physical handicaps Relations between the facility and neighbors has a somewhat tumultuous history. Recently, neighbors won a battle when the city denied Shin's request to lower the facility's parking requirement. Shin sent the commission a letter explaining his position, using somewhat explosive language. "In the event that the individuals behind this proposal are ultimately successful, a dubious propositions at best, you might want to ponder whether the ultimate outcome of such an action will accomplish the obvious aim of these individuals," the letter states. "Undoubtedly, they wish to remove Medlink's current operations from this site and they are somehow convinced that the best way to accomplish this end is to squeeze Medlink with the possibility of the site being downsized." Shin continued by saying if he "downzoned" he will have no other choice but to continue operations there for economic purposes, instead of relo- Register NOW for our Homebuyers' Bootcamp. 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"We're only questioning his ability to follow the law and be a good neighbor," Crews said. "He's not getting a good reception from the neighborhood." Giordano said Shin will meet with the commis-sion's zoning and planning committee then brief the entire panel at its July 7 meeting. Museum Out, Condos In The developer installing condominiums on the soon-to-be vacated Childrens Museum site said he will keep most of the 130-year-old structure in tact as the project gets underway. "We want to restore (the buildings) to their true historic fabric," developer Jim Abdo said. Abdo presented his initial concepts for the project to the commission, however, he was unable to answer some of the questions since the design, number of units and price haven't been determined yet. Abdo said he wanted to begin the public notification rocess and will keep the ANC up to date with the project as it progress. He said there will be a public meeting in July to discuss the project. Commissioner April Hall wanted to know if Abdo was going to have low-income units available because of the growing citywide problem of these families being displaced by more expensive housing. "There will be a low-income housing component," Abdo said, but couldn't say what percentage this early in the process. Commissioner Karen Wirt asked if there will be adequate parking for the facility. Abdo said there will be one parking space for each unit, with the possibility of increasing that, but again, it couldn't be determined this early. ANC Changes Meeting Place Due to the relocation of the Children's Museum outside its borders, ANC 6C will meet temporarily at the National Public Radio building located at 635 Massachusetts Ave., NW. The commission meeting day and time, the second Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m., remain the same. The first meeting at the new site will be July 7. Blimpies Permit Questioned The commission unanimously decided to ask the city how the Blimpies/Noble Roman Pizza establishment got a fast-food restaurant permit in a zone that prohibits such permits. The commission's zoning committee had suggested that it sent a letter objecting to the eatery's permit, but Commissioner Daniel Pernell said it was unfair to single out Blimpie's, a national fast-food chain. "We need to find out why they were granted that certificate," Pernell said. H Street is in the middle of revitalization and aims to encourage local businesses, and shy away from nationwide chains. But Pernell said there is a fast-food chicken store a couple blocks down. Commissioner Karen Wirt said because of the incoming revitalization in the area, the commission needs to keep its eye on what the city is or isn't doing properly. "This is an example of what can happen on H Street if we don't monitor them," she said. Commissioners Mark Dixon, Bob Morris, Daniel Pernell, Charley Docter, April Hall, Bill Crews and Karen Wirt were present. Commissioners Lawrence Thomasand Rob Hall were absent. The next ANC 6C meeting will begin at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 7 at the National Public Radio board room, 635 Mass Ave, NW. ANC 6D Backs Police Substation Say more patrols needed ANC 6D said it will send a letter to the Metropolitan Police Department asking for a substation near the Southwest Waterfront. Commissioner Andy Litsky said due to the increase of pedestrian ac tivity on the waterfront and the recent mugging of Supreme Court Justice David Souter a substation is overdue. Also included in the letter will be a request to boos bike and scooter patrols within the area claiming that will help curb incidents. No one from the MPD was present at the meeting to comment. The Voice emailed MPD for a comment, but at press time there had been no reply. Backing of Banneker/L'Enfant Project Delayed The commission held off giving its endorsement of the Washington Independence Council's vision to clean up the quarter-mile stretch from the Smithsonian Castle along Ninth Street, SW to the incoming Banneker Memorial. Peggy Seats from WIC had asked the ANC to back the project - something the ANC did a number of years ago, but no one could remember exactly when. Seats was looking for the panel to OK the group's plan, but the ANC delayed the action until schematics could be delivered to the entire panel. The commission will take the matter up at its July meeting. It is likely the panel will endorse the project. WIC is working with the federal Transportation Department to overhaul the area. The $50 million project is funded by federal money. Commissioners Ahmed Assalaam, C.W. Hargrave, Robert Siegel, Roger Moffatt and Mary Williams were present. Commissioner Ed Johnson was absent. The next meeting will begin at 7 p.m. on Monday, July 12, at the Millennium Arts Center, 65 I Street, SW. Patti Shea covers local politics for the Voice. NEED A GOOD ELECTRICIAN? Call Charlie! . _ Remodeling . _ Old and New Work . _ Quality Work . _ Low Prices 202-397-2273 Fax 202-397-2127 Lic. DC EM900042 MICHELE PIQUET, PH.D. CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST Individual, couple, and group psychotherapy CAPITOL HILL 202-544-4480 Khan El-Khalili 321 7th Street, SE 202-543-5295 1-800-397-9441 Mohamed & Venetta Khattab Owners _ Hand Made Egyptian Gifts & Oils Imported from Cairo _ Tell our advertisers you saw them in The Voice Doolittle Guest House 506 East Capitol Street A spacious and conveniently located bed and breakfast. 202 546-6622 www.doolittlehouse.com downLoad ITEMS OF INTEREST FR OM THE VOICE WEBSITE FOR THE LAST MONTH Bush Administration Pledges Support for South Capitol Gateway Project BY D AVE FRANCIS In the Bush Administration's first recognition of the South Capitol Gateway project, Mayor Anthony Williams and Department of Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta signed a memorandum of understanding on June 8 acknowledging the importance of the rehabilitation project. Sen. Jim Jeffords (I-VT), Rep. Steny Hoyer (DMD), and Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton also attended the event. The memorandum is a sign of support for the rehabilitation and development of the South Capitol Street corridor, which is bounded by N, P, 1st St. and South Capitol. Hoyer and Norton included $20 million for the project in the transportation bill that passed the House this spring. This money will likely go restoring the South Capitol Street Frederick Douglas Bridge. The Senate version of the bill, however, does not include funding for the project. The entire project is expected to cost $1.5 billion, according to The Hill. The goal of the project is to revitalize the area, drawing new businesses and improving the quality of life for residents. The area is home to one of the four final sites for a baseball stadium is the District acquires a baseball team. In a statement, Hoyer applauded the memorandum and reiterated his support for the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative and the South Capitol Gateway project. "This new and worthy gateway to the Nation's Capitol will attract thoughtfully-planned private investment and development while showcasing the Capitol in all its grandeur. The residents of the District and the people of the United States deserve no less," Hoyer said in his statement. Jeffords took the occasion to call for the passage of the highway bill currently before Congress. "I believe that we can pass a bill this year that will help rebuild our bridges, make our highways safer and create more than a million jobs. If Congress passes one bill this year, it should be the highway bill." School Board Resolution Shifting Funds to Schools Fails To Pass BY D AVE FRANCIS A District of Columbia school board resolution shifting $9 million in funds to schools to alleviate a brewing budget crisis has failed. Tommy Wells, school board member representing District Three, championed the resolution at last night's school board meeting. The vote ended in a tie, and the resolution failed to pass. The resolution's defeat comes in the wake of a Walk Out at Capitol Hill Cluster Schools this past Thursday. The Walk Out was organized in protest of school budget cuts. Supporters of increased funding for schools vociferously proclaimed their views during the public comment period at the school board meeting. Wells' resolution stated that because the Weighted Student Formula has not been increased in line with the increased cost of the District public school labor agreements, funding is "insufficient to support basic level staffing for 144 of its 157 schools and programs." Under Wells' plan, $9.5 million remaining in the public school budget for 2005 "designated for citywide initiatives" would have shifted to school budgets by increasing the Weighted Student Formula. The resolution noted that "$13 million is available to the new superintendent for new initiatives." These funds are being withheld from local schools because of Congressional disapproval of plans for the funds. Dispersal of the money is pending while Mayor Anthony Williams searches for a new superintendent and, with the new superintendent, a new plan. When asked before the meeting if the resolution would pass, Wells said, "If the support is not there, it's because of board members being obstinate and stubborn." The resolution tied with 3 to 3 with Tommy Wells, Julie Mikuta and Dwight Singleton voting for; and Robin Martin, Carrie Thornhill and Peggy Cooper Cafritz voting against. Carolyn Graham and William Lockridge abstained from the vote. This resolution's failure to pass follows a Walk Out in protest of the budget cuts organized by the Capitol Hill Cluster School Parent Teachers Association (PTA). Last Thursday, Walk Out organizers estimate approximately 300 students and parents at Stuart Hobson and Watkins and a large number at Peabody left class from 11:30 to 12:30, forming a human chain around the schools. Suzanne Wells, president of the Capitol Hill Cluster School PTA and co-organizer of the Walk Out, calls the event "fantastic," saying students carried handmade placards protesting the cuts. Ms. Wells says the cuts are "very severe," resulting in Capitol Hill Cluster Schools loosing 9 ? teachers, including an art teacher, a librarian, and 4 full time classroom teachers. This loss of teachers will substantially increase class size, Ms. Wells says. Barbara Riehle, first vice president of the Capitol Hill Cluster Schools PTA, adds that coverage from local news outlets was "great" despite Ronald Reagan's funeral dominating airwaves and newspapers last week. Wells says local television channels Fox 5 and ABC 7 aired spots on the event. The Washington Post also ran a small story. Ms. Wells laments that the Walk Out "didn't get great participation from other schools" off of Capitol Hill, but argues "the lack of participation does not mean they don't feel strongly" against the proposed cuts. Ms. Wells says she and other PTA members as well as concerned parents and students will continue to fight the budget cuts, concluding, "We're very focused on follow up." Opponents of the budget cuts made their views known during public comments at tonight's meeting. Members of the teacher's union also voiced their dissatisfaction with jobs cuts resulting from the budget crisis. Editor's Note: Please check www.voiceofthehill.com for updates on this and other school board matters. Dave Francis can be reached at dave@ voiceofthehill.com. New Cell Phone Law Will Take Effect This Month Motorists who like to use a cell phone, check a pager, or even hold a pet while d riving, may face fines this summer. These activities are all covered under the District's Distracted Driving Safety Act of 2004, which goes into effect on July 1. After a 30day grace period, violators face a $100 fine. First-time offenders, however, will not be fined if they submit proof of purchase of a hands-free device. According to a 2002 Gallup poll in conjunction with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 25 percent of 4,000 American drivers interviewed admitted to talking on a cell phone while driving. Last year, a AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study ranked cell phone use tenth out of 11 distractions reported to have caused automobile accidents. City Council Member Harold Brazil, who was active in getting the cell phone component of the act into law, told WTOP Radio that he thinks the final version goes too far. "This business about other, non-cognitive distractions like food or cats or whatever is probably a little much," he stated. CHAMPS Salutes the Closing of FY04 The Capitol Hill Association of Merchants and Professionals (CHAMPS) held its annual meeting on June 9 at the Marine Barracks in the John Philip Sousa Band Hall. The meeting, combined with an evening social gathering, was a festive occasion with many association members and guests in www.voiceofthehill.com attendance. During the meeting portion, the membership approved the proposed slate of fiscal year 2005 (July '04-June '05) CHAMPS officers and board of directors. Current president Bill Rouchell, operator of Maison Orleans B&B, will continue his leadership role as board president for another year, with Kathleen Franzen (first vice president), Judy Wood (treasurer), and Brad Johnson (Law Offices of Bradford P. Johnson) also maintaining their positions for an extended year. J.W. Arnold of PRDC will serve as second president. First vice president Kathleen Franzen spoke briefly about the board, the smallest in many years. As chair of the board development committee she felt that the CHAMPS leadership had a great opportunity to assess the composition of the current board, look to the whole CHAMPS membership to see what individual talents or innovative business ideas may not be represented on it and be considered for a board position. Franzen encouraged any full CHAMPS member that wanted to explore serving on the board to get in touch with her. Rouchell spent a moment thanking various businesses and individuals that were helpful to CHAMPS and to the Hill's business community during the past 12 months. He also gave a joint 2004 Daniel Carroll Award for Outstanding Community Development to Abdo Development for Bryant School restoration and conversion and to Eakin/Youngentaub Associates for Bryant Square Townhomes. Mark Holler of Gingko Gardens was given a special honor for all of his volunteer work in helping to nurture and water trees and other greenery in the Hill neighborhood. Hoopla Traders and owners Laurie Morin and Denise D'Amour were awarded the CHAMPS Retailer of the Year plaque and J.W. Arnold was recognized for his CHAMPS energy and commitment by being the recipient of the President's Award for 2004. The business meeting also included the introduction of CHAMPS' visitors and membership web sites in their enhanced states. Both www. CapitolHill.org and www.CHAMPSdc.org have received a face-lift, and now that they are revitalized, both sites will better serve CHAMPS, its members and the Capitol Hill community. The sights, up and running, are currently being reviewed by the membership and additional features and information will be forthcoming. Mentioning was also made of CHAMPS' first inhouse production of the Capitol Hill Map, a major undergoing for the association, and highlights of the various business seminars and networking events held throughout the year were portrayed with a short slideshow. "Excellent gathering," was a repeated phrase heard during the course of the evening. Judy Zinter of Yarmouth Management added, "One of the nicest functions that CHAMPS has ever had. And it was most informative about the various projects CHAMPS is involved with." A special thanks to Col.. Daniel P. O'Brien, Commanding Officer of Marine Barracks, Washington, DC, and the Barracks staff, for hosting CHAMPS' Annual Meeting Stanton Park Neighborhood Association Awards Four Scholarships In late May, the Stanton Park Neighborhood Association (SPNA) bestowed four scholarships to DC high school seniors to help pay for their first year of college. Awards of $1,250 were given to Sally Hayman, Elizabeth Kurtz, Dionna Lewis, and Jamila Thompson. Sally Hayman, who lives on Capitol Hill and attended Duke Ellington High School, plans to attend Rutgers University and will study writing and the arts. Kurtz, who lives near Stanton Park, attended Wilson High School. She will attend Harvard and plans to study educational policy and human rights law. Lewis is from eastern Capitol Hill, went to Banneker High School, and will attend the University of Virginia in the fall. Lewis is interested in law and politics, and her goal is to become president of the United States. Thompson went to Cardozo High School. She will major in American history at the Eugene Lang College of the New School University in New York City and wants to become a high school history teacher. As part of her scholarship, Kurtz was named the winner of the Joe and Ruth Henson award. The award honors the memory of the Henson's, who lived on the 600 block of D Street. The Henson family offered their neighbors love, support, and kindness, and were known for lending a helping hand to others. The Henson award is funded by Dorothy Antil Bredesen, a former neighbor of the Henson's, and is meant to remind all of us what we can do to help create a real neighborhood. Kurtz won the award in recognition of her service and interest in the community. Beyond financial assistance, scholarship recipients get the pride and confidence of knowing that their efforts have been recognized and appreciated. An SPNA scholarship gives the students confidence to dream big and helps them to achieve those dreams. The Stanton Park Neighborhood Association began awarding scholarships to DC high school seniors in 1991-with preference given to students residing in the Stanton Park neighborhood and the greater Capitol Hill neighborhood. Over the past 13 years, SPNA has raised and distributed over $65,000 to 49 students. SPNA raises funds through donations by generous individuals, businesses, and institutions, and by raffling and auctioning items donated by Capitol Hill merchants at an annual scholarship fundraising event. One hundred percent of the money raised goes to the students, and donations are tax-deductible. You can read these and other news stories about life on Capitol Hill at www.voiceofthehill.com. Send your press releases and news stories to editor@voice ofthehill.com Tell our advertisers you saw them in The Voice BusinessSnapshots BY D AVE FRANCIS Al's Carryout-A Local Favorite While a language barrier might exist between the Korean owners of Al's Carryout on 8th Street, Gee Hung and Seung Kim have no problem communicating with their customers. They use "body language," says Seung Lee, Hung and Kim's son and translator. "But you don't really need to say anything if you're hungry and the food is good." Since taking over the deli a month and a half ago, Hung and Kim have created a "home-cooked environment" where everyone is welcome. Some customers have even taken to calling her "Mom," Lee says. Traditional Deli Menu Expanded Al's offers subs and sandwiches of all kinds, from conventional steak and cheese to more exotic fish selections with a variety of side dishes. It also has a traditional deli breakfast menu, which has attracted a loyal following among locals, Lee notes. All selections are reasonably priced, with most costing less than $5. But Lee said his parents have already begun offering less-traditional deli foods. "We're trying out new menus," with fresh fruit and salads, including pre-sliced watermelon and other summer favorites. All cooking and food preparation is done by Hung and Ki m, a practice in which Lee's parents take enormous pride. "My mother likes...making sure that people like her food. And she likes the compliments." The menu is not the only thing changing at Al's. Hung and Kim are planning to hang a new sign above the restaurant, and have already begun to make improvements to the interior. "When we first came here, the place looked like a jail," Lee says. "We're trying to make it open...Everybody's welcome." Currently, Al's is open for breakfast and lunch, with plans to open for dinner in the near future. Continuing a Family Tradition Al's is not Hung and Kim first venture into the restaurant business. Lee says his parents owned and operated Roger's, a successful restaurant in their native Korea, serving a mix of American and Korean fare. Hung and Lee, who live in Virginia, brought their family to the United States in 1997, both working in telecommunications before purchasing Al's this past spring. Al's has been on Barracks Row for 30 years, Lee says. And they have no shortage of family help with their new endeavor. Lee says three of his aunts and one of his cousins regularly work at the shop. "It's definitely a family business." Choosing Barracks Row Lee says his parents believed Barracks Row provided the best opportunity for a restaurant like theirs to grow. Because Al's has been around for a long period of time and already has a loyal clientele, Hung and Kim believe a foundation for success is already in place. "The whole area is changing," Lee says, with new and diverse people coming in since Hung and Kim took over. While Lee says the rehabilitation that has swept through Barracks Row has yet to reach Al's block, he thinks the restaurant can be "the center of change. A lot of people have peeked in and told us 'Wow, you look good.'" Though Hung and Kim currently own only the ground floor, Lee says his mother is interested in buying the entire building. "My mother knows this area has really good potential of being a nice neighborhood. They're really proud of what they've done so far, and are planning to do more," Lee says. Lee said his parents are excited about the opportunity to become part of the Capitol Hill community. While Lee says the work is difficult, his parents find "great enjoyment" in working to improve Al's. His parents aren't satisfied with just one location, and are currently looking for other business opportunities on Capitol Hill and around the District. But for the time being, his parents and family are concentrating on becoming a part of the Barracks Row community by making Al's Carryout a success. Lee says his family is excited to be on Barracks Row and looks forward to being around for a long time. "This is our version of the American dream." Al's Carryout is located at 1102 8th Street. Levi's Carry's on a Family Tradition Levi's will take over the space previously occupied by the Port CafÇ When looking for a location to open a second Levi's Restaurant in the District of Columbia, manager Johnny Kersey said the choice was between Barracks Row and Georgetown. In the end, Kersey said Barracks Row was the logical choice. "The area had exactly what we were looking for." "We wanted an area that is growing, developing. We'll bring a lot to the area. We're definitely going to bring that end [of Barracks Row] up," Kersey said. Levi's will bring a taste of the South to Capitol Hill beginning next month with a menu specializing in North Carolina barbecue. Offerings include pork and beef ribs, baked and fried chicken, chopped and pulled pork-and, for the more adventurous, pig's feet and liver and onions. Most main courses are offered on a sandwich as well. Levi's also has a full children's menu and an assortment of Southern desserts, including peach and apple cobbler and sweet potato pie. Portions are advertised as large enough to "satisfy the hardiest appetite." All dishes are reasonably priced with almost all choices under $10. This is the second Levi's location, joining a restaurant in Oxon Hill. Along with sit-down service, Levi's also caters events, including weddings, company picnics, family reunions and private parties. All cooking is done on-site with state-of-the-art equipment. Kersey is confident Capitol Hill residents will enjoy both services. Levi's is a family-owned business, with Levi Durham Jr., running operations with his wife Carmella and parents Levi Sr. and Gloria. The family, originally from North Carolina, entered the restaurant business more than 13 years ago and has operated the Oxon Hill location for over five years. All recipes are family secrets, and customers are promised "Southern hospitality." Kersey, who's been with Levi's for over six years, says work on the Barracks Row restaurant is almost complete, and he hopes to open in mid-July. Levi's acquired the property next door to the Barracks Row location, and are expanding so they will be able to seat approximately 100 people, according to Kersey. Finishing touches are currently being made to the renovations. Kersey said Levi's will offer outside seating soon after the opening. Already Kersey feels as if Levi's is part of the Barracks Row community. "We've been handing out fliers, getting to know some of the business owners" along 8th Street, Kersey says. Neighbors have told Kersey they are excited about the new restaurant and the potential of the southern end of Barracks Row. "We feel the same way," Kersey says. Dave Francis is Voice of the Hill's newest contributor 7/31/04 Eastern Market 327 7th St., SE _ (202) 546-CAKE the cancer diagnosis frightening, maddening, confusing but also a time for self-reflection and enhancement of personal development individual, couples and group psychotherapy for those with cancer joseph tarantolo, md board certified psychiatrist certified group therapist 202/543-5290 Salute to Excellence in Education The annual Salute to Excellence in Education, sponsored by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, recognized six students for outstanding scholarship, leadership and community service. The honorees were selected by the faculty and administration of the individual schools. St. Peters Interparish School: Alexandra Spencer Capitol Hill Day School: Jane Abernethy and Kerry Garikes Hine Jr. High School: William Budd and Brandon Briscoe Stuart Hobson Middle School: LaNae Bragburn Award winners receive an inscribed Webster's Collegiate Dictionary. When it comes to July 4th, what better place can you be than Washington, DC? The center of democracy, teeming with history, it's your hometown, and whether you want to commemorate Independence Day with hundreds of thousands or just your sweetheart, there's an event or patriotic activity for you. So go on and celebrate! Voice of the Hill has done the all the research-all you have to do is choose where you want to go. Jazz Brunch at the National Gallery Kick off your American spirit with a succulent buffet-style brunch, complete with easy jazz and a spectacular view of the National Mall, at the National Gallery of Art's jazz brunch. The celebrated brunch is held in the museum's Terrace CafÇ overlooking the East Building atrium, and features everything your festive, international heart could desire- from savory empanadas and Yucatan scrambled eggs to dark chocolate cake and citrus salad. July 4th's featured jazz musician is percussionist Alejandro Lucini. Brunch is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., $19.95 for adults, $8.95 for kids. (202) 216-5966 Declaration of Independence reading at National Archives Relive the days of the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives. Actors from the American Historical Theatre will morph into historical all-stars, such as Thomas Jefferson and Ben Franklin, to tell you most everything you (or your kids) wanted to know about the holiday or their lives. A dramatic reading of the historic document will kick off on the Archives' steps at 10 a.m. Festivities, including a book fair and a musical performance by the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, will continue until 4 p.m. Independence Day Parade Sleep in a little and then hit the Dist rict's Independence Day Parade at 11:45 a.m. on Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th streets. Bring a flag and hold it high as military bands, marching bands, floats, horse, drill teams, giant balloons, and, of course, VIPs celebrate America's birthday. Visit www. july4thparade.com for more information. Folklife Festival If the 4th rolls around and you still haven't been able to catch the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, you're in luck! July 4th is the free event's last day, so slather on some sunblock and see our National Mall transformed into perhaps the most ethnic place on the planet. Each year, the event, an annual traditional since 1967, has featured the sights, tastes, sights, smells and sounds from over 50 nations. If international cuisine is your weakness, you might want to bring some cash (or a clothespin for your nose!), because this might just be the best-smelling festival in town and, hungry or not, you'll succumb to one-or more-of its aromas. The festival opens at 11 a.m. and wraps up at 5:30 p.m. The Folklife Festival's website can be found at http://www. folklife.si.edu. Takoma Park Independence Day Parade If you'd rather a small town feel-or are just plain booked up for the actual 4th-take the short drive or Metro ride to Takoma Park, Md., for the city's famed July 4th parade. Even though it will be held on July 5th this year, the event has all the trimmings of the most traditional, old-fashioned display you'd ever want. Takoma Park's Independence Day Parade touts itself as one of the oldest on the East Coast, and makes it's way through the city's picturesque, tree-lined streets with dancers and vintage cars, and, of course, local legislators. The parade may be traditional, but Maryland's liberal little gem Takoma Park is not, so you can always expect something colorful and unexpected. The parade begins at 10 a.m. at Carroll and Ethan Allen Avenues. The route follows Carroll Avenue towards the District, crosses over to Maple Avenue along Carroll Street, then returns along Maple Avenue. Visit http://www.takoma-park4th.org for more information. US Air Force Band at Air & Space Museum Get your share of brass-induced patriotism with the United States Air Force Band and their Singing Sergeants as they perform at the Smithsonian's Air & Space Museum's sixth annual Independence Day Concert. The U.S. Air Force Band, known as "America's International Musical Ambassadors," has been delighting audiences around world since 1941. Its 24-member chorus, the Singing Sergeants, the oldest professional chorus in the US military, will join the band for marches and patriotic classics. The free show will begin at 6 p.m. on the north terrace of the museum, and will be broadcast live on WETA 90.9 FM. Check out the US Air Force Band website http://www.usafband.com/ for additional information. Mule-drawn C&O Canal Ride No need to go all the way to Williamsburg for a true step back in time. This July 4th, celebrate American with a trip down to Georgetown's C&O Canal for a mule-drawn boat ride! That's right, mules! Period-clad rangers narrate the hour-long boat rides, and mules-that darling hybrid of horse and donkey-pull visitors steadily along. Fun for both kids and adults, the ride gives participants a taste of late 19th century life along the famous canal. Catch a ride at 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m. or 3 p.m. $8 for adults, $6 senior citizens and $5 children. Call (202) 653-5190 for more information from the National Park Service. Organ Recital at the National Cathedral Step into the city's magnificent National Cathedral July 4th to hear a free recital on its equally magnificent 10,650-pipe organ. Performances are held on the cathe-dral's Great Organ throughout the year most Sundays, but the awe-inspiring instrument and breathtaking church may be just what you need to kick up your inspiration a notch (or ten!). The concert, featuring Erik Wm. Suter, is free and starts at 5 p.m. Visit http://www.cathedral. org for more details. Mount Vernon What better locale to celebrate the nation than at George Washington's place? Head down south to Virginia's Mount Vernon, take a tour www.voiceofthehill.com of the first president's estate, gardens or take part in the manor's Red, White and Blue July 4th celebration (featuring a performance by the National Concert Band of America and free birthday cake). Through September 6, Mount Vernon also conducts a special ceremony honoring World War II veterans at Washington's tomb of General Washington daily at 2 p.m. During the half-hour observance, held every day, veterans may enter the tomb to lay a wreath, as well as record their visit in a guest book. Fireworks on the Mall Did you really think we'd leave out the fireworks? Come early to stake out your spot on the National Mall to witness perhaps the country's most impressive half-hour pyrotechnic display, which will begin around 9 p.m. The National Symphony Orchestra will perform a patriotic prelude to the fireworks at 8 p.m. on the Capitol's West Lawn, featuring, of course, the famous "1812 Overture," cannons firing and all. Good viewing areas include the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, the Ellipse, or anywhere along the Mall between 14th Street and the Capitol. Call (202) 619-7222 for more information. Odyssey July 4th Dinner Cruise Glam it up while getting the city's best view of the fireworks on the Odyssey's July 4th spectacular dinner cruise. The three-hour cruise isn't cheap at $175 per person, but how often do you get the chance to enjoy a hors d' oeuvres, a three-course meal, open bar and live entertainment on the Potomac? The uniquely designed $6 million Odyssey ship allows the cruiser to glide under bridges, its glass-atrium dining rooms offer panoramic views of the monuments and the open-air perimeter deck is perfect for celebrating. Passengers board the ship at 7 p.m., and the cruise starts at 8 p.m. Call (888) 741-0281 or visit http://www.odysseycruises.com to make reservations. Jessica Leshnoff is a regular contributor to Voice of the Hill who found plenty of must-do summer activities while researching this story. 414 SEWARD SQ. SE #105 Great Hill location, just three blocks to the US Capital and one half block off 4th & Pennsylvania Ave! Large one bedroom in the Rear corner of the building. Refinished oak floors, new kitchen, Perfect renovated Condition. A Real Value at this price in this location . 612 EAST CAPITOL ST. NE #5 Large Un-Restored Carriage House Condo in prime location! 2000 sq. ft. on two levels with the possibilities of a third level. This is a total shell, NO WALLS, NO FLOORS, A BLANK CANVAS. Calling all contractors (With talent please) HOT DOGS: An American Tradition (And German Transplant!) BY CELESTE MCCALL ot dogs, along with baseball, Georghehner, a German butcher liv epitomize summer. ing in Coburg. As early as 1487, the According to the National people of Vienna (Wien), declared Hot Dog and Sausage Council, their city the home of tasty Americans will gobble 7 billion hot "Wieners." dogs between Memorial Day and Eventually, sausages wended their Labor Day, and much of that way to America. In 1871 another munching will occur in ballparks German butcher, Charles Feltman, across the nation. Consumption will opened a Coney Island frankfurter hit its peak on the Fourth of July- stand. In his first year of business, he when 155 million franks will sizzle sold 3,684 "dachshunds," nestled in on backyard grills from coast to buns. In 1893, Chicago's Columbian coast. Not surprisingly, The Council Exposition attracted hordes of visi has proclaimed July National Hot tors who scarfed up countless Dog Month, culminating on the 21st sausages, also served in rolls. (Most with National Hot Dog Day. authorities agree that wieners-in- At major league stadiums this buns is a German invention.) That year, fans will devour 24.2 million same year, franks became standard hot dogs, which, if laid end to end, fare in ball parks because they were would stretch from Dodger Stadium tasty, inexpensive and easy to eat. to Baltimore's Camden Yards! When did "wieners" and "franks" Dodger Stadium, where folks put become "hot dogs?" Some say the away an estimated 1.61 million term was coined in 1901 at the New franks last year, led the league in hot York Polo Grounds on a cold, blus dog consumption. Camden Yards tery April day. Vendors were hawk-dragged in tenth with a mere ing the franks from portable hot 750,000 wieners sold. water tanks shouting: "Get 'em Everywhere, folks love their while they're red hot!" Inspired by "dogs." At the National Restaurant the scene, a New York Journal car-Association's annual expo at Chi-toonist, Tad Dorgan, supposedly cago's McCormick Place in May, one sketched a cartoon with the caption: of the most popular booths was "Hot Dog!" Apparently the term Nathan's Famous hot dogs. At the caught on, even though Dorgan's four-day trade show, hungry atten-original drawing is lost to history. dees (including myself) queued up to German wieners were a highly sea-sample the all-beef franks, plopped on poppy seed rolls and slathered with spicy deli mustard. They hit the spot. History One of humankind's oldest processed foods, hot dogs' forerun-ner-sausage-dates back to antiquity. Long before the advent of refrigeration, a reliable way to preserve meat was to grind it up, stuff it into natural casing and smoke it over a fire. Sausages were even mentioned in Homer's Odyssey. Frankfort-on-Main is probably the birth place of the frankfurter, but some experts claim that the popular wurst, called a dachshund or "little dog,"was created in the late 1600s by Johann High in calories, fat, cholesterol and salt, corn dogs-and hot dogs in general-are probably not among the healthiest foods. But health concerns don't stop the average American from downing 60 hot dogs each year. For adults, the condiment of choice is mustard, while children prefer ketchup, but these preferences vary from region to region. According to factmonster. com, when youngsters were asked what topping they would choose if their parents weren't looking, 25 percent responded: chocolate sauce. Get 'Em While They're Hot If you crave a hot dog, wiener, bratwurst or something similar, here's what we found on Capitol Hill and beyond: For a German wurst platter, CafÇ Berlin (202-543-7656) serves weiss-wurst (white sausage) and bratwurst (pork), accompanied by sauerkraut. Priced at $14.95, this hearty platter goes well with a frosty brew beer on a hot summer day. A national chain, Frank & Stein Dogs and Drafts, has outlets throughout the Washington area. Nearby locations are Union Station's food court (lower level, 202-289-3661) and L'Enfant Plaza's concourse (202-554-7320, open weekdays only). F&S varieties include "chili dog," "deli dog," "slaw dog," and "Tex-Mex dog," as well as half-smokes, kielbasa and Italian sausage with side orders of sauerkraut, fries and cheese sticks. Franks come in regular and jumbo, and prices range from around $2.65 to about $5.40 for a combo platter with fries and soft drink. Ask about daily specials. L'Enfant Plaza's F&S serves no alcohol, but Union Station offers Bud and Michelob on draft. Also at the Union Station food court: New York Deli dispenses regular and jumbo dogs, topped with mustard, relish, chopped onions, soned mixture of pork and beef. Today's American hot dogs are usually concocted from beef, pork, and chicken or combinations thereof. Some are "all beef" or "all chicken," and "regular" franks are a mixed bag of cereal, wheat germ, milk solids and various meat products. Nutritionally, there isn't much difference between these varieties. Only about half of any hot dog is meat. Remaining ingredients are fat, water, spices, flavorings, and chemicals. An "all beef" or "all meat" wiener contains 145 calories, a "regular" has 130 calories, and chicken hot dogs have 115 calories each. But these numbers can be significantly higher. A Ponderosa's "child's hot dog," for example, has 248 calories and a Dairy Queen dog packs in 280 calories. Typically, 80 of those from fat and only 12 percent from protein. In addition, most commercially marketed franks contain nitrates which prevent the growth of botulism and preserve the meat's characteristic reddish color, which would otherwise be lost in processing. Hot dog variations have sprung up, among them "corn dogs." Supposedly created in 1942 for the Texas State Fair by Neil Fletcher, corn dogs are franks dipped in corn batter, deep fried and served on a stick. etc., priced at $2.49 and $2.99 Across the way, the sit-down family restaurant Johnny Rockets is billed as the home of "the original hamburger." But the brightly lit, retro eatery sells more than that: chili dogs with cheese, mustard, relish and onions, all for $4.49. The homespun Jimmy T's (202-544-7346), 501 East Capitol, composes a kid's platter with a corn dog, chips and soft drink for $2.25. Closed Monday and Tuesday; breakfast and lunch only. Pete's Diner (202-544-7335), 2112 Second St. SE, offers a plump all-beef frank, folded in a bun with all the usual goodies, tagged at $1.59. In front of the Penn Office Building (600 Pennsylvania Ave. SE) the Golden D Brand hot dog and sausage stand has been operating for three years. The proprietor is not sure how many he sells daily, but on a nice day, folks line up for all-beef franks and half-smokes, topped with mustard, ketchup, relish, cheese, you name it. Prices range from $1.25 for a simple dog on a bun up to $3.50 for one with soda and chips. Another popular hot dog stand is situated in Eastern Market, next to Union Meats. There, shoppers may select from various all-meat franks and half-smokes with all the trimmings: relish, mustard, ketchup, etc. Prices go from 80 cents to $1.75. At Union Station, the sprawling America (202-682-9555) restaurant includes hot dogs in its extensive, all-American menu: "Two New York Yankees Franks," served with fries, for $6.95. Open daily. Or travel downtown to Spy City CafÇ (202-654-0995), Ninth and F Streets NW next to the International Spy Museum. Last spring, executive Frank Morales unleashed "gourmet dogs:" Red Square Dog, a half smoke with red cabbage, slaw, mustard and red chili sauce for $3.25; the Langley Dog, Hebrew National all beef frank with spy chili, cheese and onions for $3.25; the Disguise Dog, diner's choice of Hebrew National or half smoke with "disguises," including spiced relish, jalapeno cheese, sautÇed onions, coleslaw, sauerkraut, tomato salsa and BBQ relish. Open daily, Spy City CafÇ is at 800 F Street NW, a block from the Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro (Red, Yellow/Green lines). Celeste McCall is a regular contributor for Voice of the Hill DREAMS OF FIELDS BY PATTI SHEA There's no crying in baseball. Well, that's what we're told anyways. But some on Capitol Hill are crying foul over the mayor's plan to install a baseball stadium somewhere in Ward 6. Where exactly? That's the $500-million question. Mayor Anthony Williams told Major League Baseball (MLB) that the city would fully-fund a stadium inside the District and gave them four options - all in Ward 6. The proposed sites are: at or near RFK Stadium on East Capitol Street, NE; the southeast corner the New York Avenue and North Capitol intersection; the southeast quadrant of South Capitol Street and M Street; and somewhere near or on the Banneker Overlook in southwest. Williams stunned many in these neighborhoods in April when word leaked about his intentions. He told Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig, a former used car salesman, the city would pay for the venue with taxpayer dollars. MLB owns the downtrodden, all but ignored Montreal Expos, which plays some home games in San Juan ... as in Puerto Rico. The MLB owners, and perhaps even scarier, Selig, have the final say on where exactly to export the Expos. Williams says to bring baseball back to the District after 33 years would be quite a triumph and reinstate a mystique to the city lost decades ago when the Washington Senators left the swampland for the tumbleweeds of Texas. Who's on First? The price tag for the stadium ranges between $280 million to more than $500 million - it all depends on who you ask and if they're up for reelection. City planners say they don't have a No. 1 site yet, but call the RFK site an attractive candidate because it would be the cheapest to build. RFK guesstimates hover around $280 million to $340 million - it depends on how many luxury boxes there are. The priciest is the Banneker site hitting that half billion spot. Steve Green, special assistant to the mayor and one of the players involved in the baseball talks, says neither MLB nor the city don't have a favorite site yet. "All we've done to date is provide options to MLB," Green told the Voice. He said the city is eyeing properties that have the least amount of impact on nearby residents. The exact funding schematics have yet to be made public. What is known is that businesses will be taxed and no money will come out of the general fund. Not eager to repeat the Arena tax debacle that clouded the MCI Center downtown, planners say only 12 -14 percent of city businesses will be taxed. Green said those businesses will likely be hotels, bigger chain restaurants and law firms, etc. The mom and pop stores that are unique to the Hill won't be assessed any extra stadium tax, he added. Those taxes are expected to generate $11 million to $19 million a year in revenue, not including the sales tax revenue from tickets sales, concessions and parking. Jeff Coudriet, the City Council's finance committee clerk who would be a key drafter of the tax plan, said no matter what the final finance plan will be, it needs to be designed in such a way to insure the tax revenue to guarantee the bond payment. This was one of the lessons learned from the MCI Arena Tax. "The city can't be on the hook for that payment," he said. "That's something they need to think long and hard about." But George Didden, president of the Capitol Hill Business Improvement District, said a stadium tax may not be the best way to go. "I think we would all like to see baseball here but we're all afraid of this so-called arena tax that took a long time to go away," he said. Instead, Didden said businesses should pledge to buy season tickets to assure attendance and let the cost of ticket sales offset the price, instead of the business community. Ward 6 Councilwoman Sharon Ambrose agreed saying there is no way she will vote for the stadium if it calls for implementing a tax on all businesses. "There's no way I am going to hit all the businesses in this city with another arena tax," Ambrose said. "It was grossly unfair when we did it before." Mark Tuohey of the DC Sports and Entertainment Commission (SEC) said the goal of the city and commission is to find a location that will create and stimulate economic development. "The RFK site is not a realistic alternative," Tuohey said, adding the homes surrounding the park and absence to any sort of retail or commercial venues make it a poor location to accomplish the moneymaking goal. "The important thing is the stadium's relationship to the community it's in." The final determination will be made by SEC and mayor's office, he said. www.voiceofthehill.com Although not jazzed about the possibility of a baseball stadium in the city, Ambrose said the best site out of the four proposed is the South Capitol spot. "It's a non-starter as far as I'm concerned," she said. "But looking at the South Capitol and M site I can see real possibilities for redevelopment along M Street." She added that there is more of a possibility to have a Camden Yards/Inner Harbor-type atmosphere at the M Street site, than the other three. And the worst site? The Banneker location. "Southwest has a very strong sense of community. I think it would be destructive for that community to have a baseball stadium," Ambrose said. The City Council was set to pass the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative when Councilman Jack Evans, D-Ward 2 and chairman of the coun-cil's finance committee, on the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend slipped in an amendment that would provide transportation and AWI revitalization dollars to stadium construction. Evans was pushed by the mayor's office. By the following Tuesday, Evans withdrew his amendment because of public outcry, not to the surprise of Ambrose. In an interview before Evans' amendment proposal, Ambrose said someone from the mayor's office asked her to propose the same amendment. But Ambrose said she wasn't going to do anything until MLB made up its mind and she got input from the community members. "I'm certainly not going to discuss it anymore without a community meeting," she said. "And I haven't had a community meeting about it because I don't want it to be any more real and I don't want it to get anymore legs, if you will, than it has right now. And right now it doesn't have any. Right now we don't have a funding plan and we don't have any assurance from Major League Baseball." Commissioner Andy Litsky of ANC 6D - which includes the M Street and Banneker sites - said putting a stadium at Banneker would undo years of work by the Southwest community members who worked on the AWI. "Nowhere does it show a stadium there," Litsky said. "To put one there would be the height of hypocrisy." The Banneker site would require a platform over the Southeast/Southwest Freeway - which contributes to the $500-million sticker price. It would also bump the National "...businesses should pledge to buy season tickets to assure attendance and let the cost of ticket sales offset the price, instead of the business community." Childrens Museum from its pro-office to confirm Murray's statement revitalized blighted downtown posed site. wasn't returned. neighborhood citing Denver's Coors But Litsky said when it comes to However, those familiar with the Field and Baltimore's Camden Yards that particular site, it's not a NIMBY proposal say the North Capitol site as examples. He said property values issue. isn't a top pick. Even the extended in those areas have increased. "It shows if they go forward with media coverage surrounding the Green said the M Street - future that proposal the complete disregard issue hasn't covered this site thor-home of the federal Transportation of the community action by the oughly knowing what a dark horse Department - would be the perfect Williams administration," he said. candidate it is. area to benefit from a stadium. "If this administration is vested in the planning process and to simply If You Build It, Will They Seventh Inning Stretch slip a stadium into a neighborhood Come? MLB isn't expected to make a deci that has already been planned is Pushing aside the money issue for a sion until after the July All-Star insulting." moment, there are skeptics out there break. Some predict a decision will Litsky made it clear that he wasn't wondering if there is enough of a fan come by Aug. 1 before the September anti-baseball or anti-stadium. "I'd base here to fill a stadium. playoff rush begins. like baseball here, but I want it to Ambrose said the fans may come, Selig-creator of inner-league play make sense when it comes." He and the clever one that called a tie in added Williams has done a good job but they may not stay to spend the 2002 All-Star gam-isn't budging bringing planning to the forefront money. "All those years we had the and hasn't given a clue to what city on projects citywide, but said, "If the Redskins at RFK and not one person gets the team. Northern Virginia, mayor's legacy is solely rested upon stopped for a cup of coffee in Ward Portland, Ore. and Norfolk, Va., are whether he brings baseball here, 6, or any other place in the city," she among the other front-runners, but then that is a sad commentary on said. "Those suburbanites zipped the District is the only city that his administration." into RFK, locked their car doors in offered a fully-funded park. Both Green and Tuohey said the Banneker site hasn't been thorough-the parking lot, went to the game, Tuohey said once a site is selected, hustled back into their cars and went all the proper vetting, including a ly vetted and didn't want to com-home." slew of public meetings, will occur. ment on the plans there. On the Ambrose recognizes that there And Green isn't buying the other side of the Hill, the Near weren't any establishments in the peanuts and Cracker Jack just yet. Northeast Neighborhood area for gamegoers to patron, but There are a lot of "ifs" to confirm Committee is clearly worried about a added, "those suburbanites weren't before the baselines get chalked: If possible stadium there. Committee member Loree Murray about staying around. And I don't the District is awarded the team; if believe baseball fans will either." MLB can sell the team; if the City said a stadium would be "devistat-The Expos have a less-than stellar Council can agree upon a funding ing" to area. She added that attendance record, which is one of mechanism; and if there isn't a law-Councilman Harold Brazil, D-At-the reason MLB has lost tens of mil-suit. large, has talked to the committee lions annually since owning the Green said if the city is awarded about the project and promised it team. The team doesn't have any the stadium, then it will begin to wouldn't go there. future Hall of Famers, which usually hold public meetings and start craft-A call to puts fans in the stands. ing the financial package. That pack-Brazil's "I don't think it brings that much age and stadium design and con-to the city, I truly don't," Ambrose struction could take a couple years said. "If you have a dynamite until the first pitch. team, then yeah, you're going to But that's just fine with him. get a whole lot of folks. And "It will be great to have to think even if you got a so-so team, about it," Green said smiling. you'll get a lot of people who take clients... But I What Do You Think? have never seen that the Voice readers, tell us what you think dollars work. It seems to about Major League Baseball possible be that it is a 'lost return to the city. What would name leader' in most cities. I the team? Your e-mail may be used think MLB are stick-in a follow up story. Send responses up artists." to patti@voiceofthehill.com Planning's Steve Patti Shea is the Voice's political writer. Green She is an avid baseball fan and agrees said in with Bull Durham's Crash Davis that urban there should be a Constitutional cities amendment outlawing the designated stadium hitter. have Tis the Season for Summer Colds BY ANDREW NOYES weltering sunny days and lazy More than 200 different viruses hazy nights are the hallmarks of are known to cause common cold summertime in the city but symptoms. Some, such as rhiwho could forget about the dreaded noviruses, rarely produce serious ill-summer cold? It all starts with a nesses while others, such as parainstuffy nose, a sniffle or a scratchy fluenza and respiratory syncytial throat and then it snowballs into full virus, cause mild infections in adults blown infirmity. but can bring on serious respiratory Every year, Americans suffer about infections in children. one billion colds and the price paid An estimated 30 to 35 percent of is enormous. According to the adult colds are caused by rhinovirus-National Center for Health Statistics, es and are most active in early fall, about 62 million cases in 1996 spring and summer. Researchers required medical attention or result-report that coronaviruses cause a ed in restricted activity. The same large percentage of adult colds, priyear, colds caused 45 million days of marily in the winter and early restricted activity and 22 million spring. days lost from school. Approximately 10 to 15 percent of adult colds are caused by viruses that are also to blame for other, more severe illnesses, according to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Thirty to 50 percent of adult colds, presumed to be viral, remain unidentified. Seasonal changes in relative humidity also may affect the prevalence of colds. The most common cold-causing viruses survive better when humidity is low-the colder months of the year. Cold weather also may make the nasal passages' lining drier and more vulnerable to viral infection. Although the chance of getting a cold in summer is only 1 in 4 when compared to winter probability, England's Cardiff University health researchers report that there are some special factors that could increase the risk: Flying. Long haul jet flight tops the list since there is no other instance when individuals are as likely to be squeezed tightly together with several hundred potential sources of cold infection. "Experiments on exposing uninfected volunteers to others with common cold infections have shown that the chances of catching a cold are directly related to the number of hours of exposure to infection," they report. Hence, an individual is much more likely to catch a cold on a long trip when compared to a short flight. Air conditioning. In Washington, air conditioning is simply a summertime must-have but it may actually contribute to infection with common cold viruses. According to experts, the lining of the nose is covered with a thin layer of mucous that protects against infection. Since air conditioners extract moisture from the air they may cause some drying of the protective mucous blanket in the nose causing a predisposition to infection. The cold air may also help viruses to establish a hold in the nose as viruses reproduce better in a cold nose. Stress. Chill out. Any form of stress will lower one's resistance to infection by depressing immune response. Although summer is the time for vacationing, many psychologists classify such trips as major sources of stress. Think traffic jams, home security, packing, crowds. Traveling Overseas. Cardiff researchers state that travel to foreign countries can itself increase the risk of viral infection since one is likely to encounter new viruses with no immunity to them. Prevention & Treatment Tips (compiled from National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and additional sources) Handy work. Washing one's hands is the simplest and most effective way to thwart rhinovirus colds. Not touching the nose or eyes is second. Cold carrying folks should always sneeze or cough into a tissue and, if possible, one should avoid close, prolonged exposure to persons who have colds. Since rhinoviruses can live up to three hours outside the nasal passages, cleaning environmental surfaces with a virus-killing disinfectant could also help prevent the spread of infection. A cold vaccine. So close but yet so far. Researchers working on a vaccine that could prevent the common cold have experienced some gridlock in recent years due to the discovery of many different types of cold viruses, each carrying its own antigens (substances that induce the production of specific protective proteins). Until scientists find ways to combine numerous viral antigens into one medicine or utilize existing antigenic cross-relationships, prospects for a vaccine are poor. Pending major breakthroughs, only symptomatic treatment is available. Remember what your doting mom would lovingly advise: get plenty of bed rest and drink fluids, gargle with warm salt water for a scratchy throat, use petroleum jelly for a raw nose, and take aspirin or acetaminophen to ease a headache or fever. Nonprescription cold reme-dies-like decongestants and cough suppressants-may relieve some symptoms but will not prevent, cure or even shorten the duration of the illness. However, nonprescription antihistamines may have some impact in relieving inflammatory responses such as runny nose and watery eyes. Antibiotics. Unfortunately, these prescription medications do not kill viruses and should be used only for rare bacterial complications like sinusitis or ear infections. The use of antibiotics "just in case" will not prevent secondary bacterial infections. Vitamin C. Does it really make a difference? Many folks are convinced that truck loads of vitamin C will prevent colds or relieve symptoms. Researchers have tested this www.voiceofthehill.com theory in several major controlled studies and to date, no conclusive data have shown that amounts of vitamin C prevent colds. Eat those oranges anyway-the vitamin may reduce the severity or duration of symptoms. But studies have also shown that taking vitamin C over long periods of time in large amounts may be har mful. Steam. While inhaling steam may temporarily relieve congestion, recent studies found that this approach had no effect on the symptoms or amount of viral shedding in individuals with rhinovirus colds. But steam may temporarily relieve symptoms of congestion associated with colds. Tips, tricks and medication aside, the symptoms should improve within a few days-although some colds may last as long as two weeks. If the sickness lasts longer, consult your doctor. You wouldn't want to miss out on all that summer fun. Andrew Noyes is editor pro tem of the Voice of the Hill. There's nothing he abhors more than a fierce summer cold except perhaps for the sticky summer humidity. Tune-Ups to Cracked Blocks: Getting Your Car Fixed on the Hill BY GENE MILLER t used to be that when old and M, across from the Navy Yard. And of course it didn't hurt that Dobbin threw a shoe, you would His daughter, Gina, took over the her father had married a local girl: go to your local blacksmith, a business in 1994 when her father Gina's mother is an Eastern High hurly-burly fellow in a heavy passed away and has been running it School graduate who grew up on the leather apron. While he ham-ever since. The wall behind the Hill, but is now retired in Florida. mered a new shoe onto Dobbin's counter bears autographed testimo-Gina continues: "There are nice peohoof, you could catch up on the nials from some of their patrons: ple all around here that know each local metal-working news: the iron Eleanor Holmes Norton, Trent Lott, other. We know all the neighbors he was working into a gate for the Charles Rangel, Jack Kemp, Harold whether they're customers or not." Nelsons, and the rake that widow Brazil and Albert Wynn, for example. Not only do the neighbors know Johnson broke when she was chas-"They all come in here," says serv-each other, the repair shops do, too: ing a mongrel dog away from her ice manager and master mechanic "There's competition here, but it's chickens. David "Woody" Woodall with just friendly," says Gina. "If people have Well, some parts of what used to the right touch of pride in his voice. repairs we can't handle, we send be are still alive on the Hill. These And what do they get done here? them to other shops here: front-end days, when your horseless chariot "We do brakes, shocks, tune-ups, air-alignments go to Distad's. We send throws a shoe or starts to hick and conditioning, oil changes, lubes-all engine work to J.J. Johnson at the snort out on the main drag, or- the regular maintenance." And there Exxon at 12th and Pennsylvania. J.J. worse still-won't leave its stall at all, in the middle of the pictures is a used to work at Giant. He was always you can take it to a local repair shop shot of Ben Nighthorse Campbell interested in cars and left Giant to where you'll find people who know astride his Hawg. "Oh, we don't work come to work as a mechanic for my the Hill and your car just as well as on his motorcycle," says Woody, "He dad. We helped get him started that blacksmith knew his town. just fills up here." when the opportunity opened up at Unlike the travails of buying a new Gina Croci was happy to talk the Exxon." car-all those dealers having long about her father and doing business And on a busy morning with the since fled to suburban acreage- on this busy corner by Seward air hanging wet and heavy on 4th there are auto repair shops all Square: "The Hill has an old-timey Street, a man in a blue shirt and blue around Capitol Hill that have been neighborhood feeling. Had my tie comes in the door of the Capitol run by the same families for decades. father had this station in the sub-Hill Servicenter with a plaintive Take the Capitol Hill Servicenter at urbs, I wouldn't have been there. request: "Do you have someone who 4th and Pennsylvania, SE, for exam-Being here meant so much to him, will take a nail out of my tire?" "Sure ple. Louis Croci started in 1969, mov-and I just couldn't let it go when he do!" answers Woody, and he's off to ing there from the Navy Esso at 2nd wasn't able to do it any more." see to it. In a Washington Consumer Checkbook survey in 1991, Distad's was well ahead of the pack in number of respondents (over 100, compared to fewer than 10 for some other shops) and percentage of satisfied customers: over 95 percent. The same spirit thrives a little further down the Avenue at 9th Street, SE at Distad's, where Gina and Woody send all their front-end alignments. The petrol flavor du jour at Distad's is BP, but it used to be Amoco and many other flavors before. Of course, the original flavor here at this site was probably rum: Distad's is on the site of the original Tunnicliff's, which was once the Hill's most fashionable inn. Converted into the service station, it was demolished in 1931 to make way for a new gas station. Harold Distad took over the operation in 1959 and it's now owned and run by his three sons John, Roy and Richard, with some help from their sister Donna. Distad's has two other shops in the area in addition to the service station on 9th, so they can do even more than the front-end alignments that Gina and Woody send their way. They handle the routine items like brakes, shocks, tires, and batteries at their Pennsylvania Avenue location, and ship the more complex computerized performance problems to their shop on Maryland Ave., NE. They also have a tire and brake specialty operation in Anacostia at 2320 Martin Luther King Avenue, SE. John Distad echoes Gina Croci about doing business on the Hill: "It's all about the people. There's such a wide range here on the Hill: good, bad, tall, short, rich, poor, but mostly a lot of good people. There are some families we've been serving for generations: their grandfather, father, and now the sons are coming here to get their cars worked on." A Washington Consumer Checkbook survey in 1991 bears out the loyalty John is talking about: of the District auto repair shops surveyed, Distad's was well ahead of the pack in number of respondents (over 100, compared to fewer than 10 for some other shops) and percentage of satisfied customers: over 95 percent. The survey was a sweep for two of the Hill's auto repair shops: running neck and neck with Distad's was Finley's at 518 10th NE. Distad's takes in all American and Japanese cars, but they rely on their colleagues, too: if you have a Mercedes or a Jaguar, you'll get sent over to DPL Motors on 13th and E, SE, where Geraldo Maroclo is the service manager. Or if one of your fenders needs a couple of hits of Botox, you'll get sent to Jerry's, also over on 13th and E, SE. Jerry's has a body shop in addition to doing all kinds of other repairs. Another close-in venue for repairs is the Capitol Hill Auto Service Center at 615 Independence Avenue. The manager there is Phillip Fox, a tall, sandy-haired fellow. You can still hear a touch of his hometown of Melbourne, Australia, in his voice Two of Capitol Hill's close-in auto repair shops: left, Captiol Hill Auto on Independence Ave., and Hill Auto Repair on E Street, SE when he ribs you by saying that his Of course, your mileage may vary, shop has been there "...for 140 years." and the shops mentioned above He's quick to explain that 615 aren't the only auto repair shops on Independence was a carriage repair the Hill. Several years ago, there was shop before cars came along. When a brief but lively thread on the Voice the horses got put out to pasture, the shop stayed behind, shifted gears, and started to fix those new-fangled contraptions instead. Phillip says they'll work on any make or model. They do engine work as well, although they'll refer you elsewhere if your transmission needs a little tickle. Or a big one. See our web site www.washingtonparish.org Phone (202) 547-9300 The Rev. Dr. Judith A. Davis, Rector of the Hill's discussion list about mechanics on the Hill. While some swore by one or another shop, others swore at the mention of the same shop's name. It's not always easy to find someone you trust to work on your car, but if you live on the Hill, you have some great places with fine reputations to choose from. CHRIST CHURCH-a welcomi ng community of faith and fellowship with a big heart and room to grow. 620 G Street, SE Just two and a half blocks south of Eastern Market Metro station Summer Worship Schedule SUNDAY 8:45 am Bible and Bagels 9:30 am Holy Eucharist II Followed by refreshments Nursery opens as of 8:40 am WEDNESDAY 7:30 am Holy Eucharist II Please come for the Eucharist followed by a light breakfast and conversation. Join us. All are welcome. Auto repair shops mentioned above and in "Hill Talk" at www.voiceofthehill.com: Capitol HIll Servicenter, 339 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE (202) 5474054 Distad's BP, 823 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE (202) 540-0200 Finley's Auto Service Center, 518 10th St., NE (202) 544-1110 P&A Exxon Service Center, 1201 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE (202) 5466146 Capitol Hill Auto Service Center, 615 Independence Avenue, SE (202) 5435155 DPL Motors, 1323 E Street, SE (202) 296-0654 Jerry's Custom Automotive Center, 1311 E Street, SE (202) 543-3000 Hill Auto Repair, 712 E Street, SE (202) 540-4000 Gene Miller is a frequent contributor to Voice of the Hill hydrogen can be made from many different resources." Hydrogen can be manufactured from ethanol, methane, the electrol- Fill 'Er Up ysis of water and other natural sources. As a result, hydrogen production can be a homegrown indus- try-no foreign imports needed. Another benefit is environmental safety. Hydrogen is not buried in pockets in the earth as oil is. In hydrogen production, there is no need to drill into the ground. It is a renewable and unlimited resource. The element emits little to no toxins BY MEREDITH MOISE as it is used. In fact, a byproduct of hydrogen use is water (remember H2O). As a nation, we will save billions of dollars each year by boosting hydro-Later this year, Shell will open a hydrogen fueled vehicles on a com-not produce carbon dioxide nor sul-gen production for consumer use, hydrogen fuel station at 3355 mercial scale." As gas prices continue fur, two major ingredients of the experts report. As it stands, America Benning Rd., NE. No big deal, right? to escalate, consumers are demand-damaging greenhouse effect. imports $1 billion dollars worth of Wrong. The station will actually be ing more fuel-efficient vehicles and Hydrogen is also a renewable oil each week. If hydrogen producan add-on to an already existing sta-some are calling for more research resource. You don't have to tear up tion is increased at home, imagine tion and it will offer both liquid and and development of vehicles that an Arctic wildlife preserve to dig it the savings. gaseous forms of hydrogen for a eco-use alternative sources of fuel. up nor do you have to import it from Serfass also contends that hydro-friendlier group of General Motors' Enter the hydrogen fuel cell. Few war torn lands. It can be made right gen fuel cell vehicles are more effihydrogen fuel cell vehicles. of us really think of the hydrogen as here at home. In fact, NASA has used cient than today's conventional The cars and vans will offer rides a fuel source. In fact, hydrogen is the it as an energy carrier for decades-it engines. "A fuel cell is three to four to local and federal government offi-Earth's most abundant element. has fueled the odyssey into the stars. times more efficient than today's cials to illustrate the efficiency of Although the most abundant, it easi-National Hydrogen Association engine," he asserts. "In fact, the hydrogen-fueled cars, officials ly combines with other elements, spokesman Patrick Serfass believes whole vehicle is 15 percent more report. The station proves to be a thus it is rarely found by itself in there are a handful of reasons to efficient." shrewd move by Shell and GM to nature (think water). It is tasteless, look at hydrogen as a natural fuel Before you elect to join the hydro-market the hydrogen-fueled automo-odorless and not poisonous under alternative. gen fuel bandwagon, there are some biles, especially in light of soaring common conditions. "There are three main reasons to things to consider. Hydrogen as a gas prices at the start of the summer What makes it so appealing as a switch to hydrogen: energy security, fuel is really not marketed to the travel season. fuel source is its lack of byproducts environmental property and energy public. Hydrogen is mainly used for Shell Hydrogen's website notes when burned. The National independence," Serfass, a Capitol industry purposes. Serfass recounts, that the station is part of "the part-Hydrogen Association reports that Hill resident, says. "Hydrogen will "Right now, the element is used nership of Shell and GM to develop the combustion of hydrogen does help reduce oil imports because mainly to remove sulfur from gas and to make fertilizer." Because hydrogen production is not geared toward consumer use, the current cost of transporting it is high. "Right now, cost effectiveness depends on how far the hydrogen has to travel to get to the buyer. This is all very new. Most people don't buy hydrogen," he says. However, Serfass and his colleagues at the National Hydrogen Association are optimistic about future use. The hydrogen fuel cell has been around for about a century. It's being used in the natural gas and aerospace industries. With hybrid cars making news on the road, it's only a matter of time before hydrogen, as fuel, will make its way into the public consciousness. "I think the first step to bringing hydrogen from industry gas to a publicly consumed fuel is to move to a hydrogen-based economy," says Serfass. Hydrogen advocates hope that the U.S. and its allies will catch on to the demand for alternative, more efficient forms of fuel. As a matter of fact, the energy companies realize the days of fossil fuels are numbered. Serfass believes that the dawn of Construction is underway at the new Shell hydrogen station on Benning Road. the hydrogen fuel age is at hand. "Shell recognizes hydrogen has www.voiceofthehill.com To Market, To Market ast week I went to see Super Size Me, the docu mentary film that won rave reviews at Sundance, as well as at film festivals in Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Washington, DC. The film is reported to have chimed the death knell for the McDonald's "Super Sized" Value Meal. The film quite simply follows a man (Morgan Spurlock-producer, director, and 'guinea pig,' as the film's website acknowledges) who has decided that he will consume only McDonald's meals for one month. Spurlock's inspiration came from a law suit which made headlines until it was dismissed in January 2003, in which two teenage girls sued the fast-food giant for causing health concerns that they, as two women not even out of their teens, should not yet be riddled with. The cause they said? Too much fast food. The blame? Aggressive marketing campaigns by the fast food giants, McDonalds's in particular. The case (which was argued by George Washington University's own law professor John Banzhaf) was ultimately dismissed, because the judge ruled that there was not sufficient evidence to prove that the girls' health concerns had been caused by the McDonald's food. BY SHIRLEY SER OTSKY Spurlock set out to see if he could bereft of its own local produce. prove that link. Not so, says Bernadine Prince, Whether or not you agree with the founder of the Washington, DC claims of the case, the movie is both based FRESHFARM Markets. engaging and exhausting. I won't The FRESHFARM mission is relaruin it for you-it is worth seeing in tively simple. "To build and the theater or at least renting on strengthen the local food movement DVD when it comes out. And the in the Chesapeake Bay watershed," DVD is sure to be complete with all the literature explains succinctly, if sorts of disturbing out-takes. Though rather dryly. No worries - to hear when you see what they kept in this Bernadine tell the story of the film, you may not want to see what Market's inception, and of her pas-they took out. Just like with the con-sion for the project - is anything tents of a chicken nugget, there are but dry. some things that you'd just rather not know. From Humble Beginnings If nothing else, the movie makes Unex pectedly, Bernadine was you think about what we as trained as a field archeologist. She Americans put into our bodies every jokes that she has "always been dig-day and just how far we have strayed ging in the dirt, but for different rea-from the agrarian societies of turn of sons (than farming)!" the century America where every-"My mother was a Russian immithing we consumed was produced grant who made everything from within a day's worth of travel. And it scratch. Then I started a food co-op isn't just the fast food companies in college..." she recalls. No Big Macs that are recruiting their food sources for this kid. Years later Bernadine from far off lands. found herself working as a fund-rais-Even a consumer with a gour-er at the American Farmland Trust, a mand's eye strays far from his or her private, nonprofit organization hypothetical backyard to fill their founded in 1980 to protect our shopping cart. Lychees from nation's farmland by, "working to Thailand. Artichokes from stop the loss of productive farmland California. Peaches from Georgia. and to promote farming practices Oranges from Florida. Judging by that lead to a healthy environment" the contents of the average Whole In the late 1990s the idea of the Food's cart you would think that the FRESHFARM Market emerged as a mid-Atlantic coast was completely potential project for AFT. At first no one at the organization stepped forward to assume its helm. Bernadine, who had managed to keep her green thumb in the dirt by maintaining an organic flower garden at her home on Capitol Hill even while working in development, seized the reigns- or rather, the hoes-for the new program. She enlisted her friend Anne Yonkers, to assist. "I met Ann ten years ago when she gave a presentation about a potential producer-only farmers' market in DC like the NYC Greenmarkets. I knew immediately that it was a good idea so I raised money to hire her and be part of my staff at American Farmland Trust. At AFT I was the chief fundraiser and took the markets on as an additional part of my job." The pair opened up the Dupont Market in 1997. The launch of the FRESHFARM markets brought the first ever "pro-ducer-only" farmers markets to the District. "Producer-only" is defined as a market whose representative farms can sell only what they grow and produce themselves. In addition, FRESHFARM dealers must come from farms located within a 150mile radius of DC. "That's what makes us different from a place like Eastern Market (where they sell things like peaches from South Carolina!)," Bernadine explains, "We are very strict about it being producer only-we want to make sure of (the market's) integrity-that it is not a resale market." In the case of edible goods, that definition is pretty clear. All fruits and vegetables must be raised on the dealer's farm. But that also extends to produced goods like jams and jel-lies-meaning that these items that must be made exclusively from fruits raised on that farm, or in the case of soaps, all ingredients that make up the product (including any herbs or flowers added to the mix) must be raised by the seller. "At the Dupont Market we have a fish dealer, but all of the fish comes from within the 150 mile radius, and he nets it himself" Bernadine assures me. Popular Produce "For the last two years the Dupont Circle Market has been a year round market." Bernadine reports. During peak season, that market now boasts over 30 farmers, proffering fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheeses, fruit pies, breads, fresh pasta, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps and herbal products. In 1998 a second FRESHFARM Market was launched in the historic town of St. Michaels, Maryland, on the Eastern Shore. "And last year we started the www.voiceofthehill.com Penn Quarter Market on Thursdays (from 3p.m. - 7p.m.) down on 8th Street between the Portrait Gallery and the National Archives. It's a great site-so incredible to look at those structures there!" That same year a Saturday market was added in Georgetown at the Hyde Elementary School on O Street, NW. And on a Saturday morning earlier this June, the H Street Market celebrated its inaugural market day. As a Hill resident, Bernadine speaks with particularly pride of the H Street Market. "The DC office of planning approached me and asked, Can we do this at H Street?" They started looking for potential sites and discovered "This parking lot (on H Street Northeast, between 6th and 7th streets) that is not used for parking on Saturdays." But more importantly to Bernadine, neighborhood residents were involved in efforts to make the market a reality. "The community of H Street was asked, what can help bring a sense of community here? And the first answer was a farmer's market... that's why I do this, it's my passion because I know this makes a difference for the community as well as for local farmers." Saturday markets present unique challenges because "Saturday is the most popular day for markets, so it's very hard to recruit farmers." But recruit they did, starting in December of 2003. They acquired the necessary permit from the city in January of 2004, and by March they were receiving applications back from farmers. The application process is not a simple one. "The farmer lists everything about their operation", explains Bernadine. "What kinds of trucks they use to transport their goods, all the crops they grow on their farm, how large the farm is, what farming processes are used (e.g., organic farming), they give us a map of the farm, a copy of their liability insurance, and a County Extension Agent signs off on the application, as proof that they are in fact a farmer." And that is only the beginning. "If they are new to our organization, we ask what other markets they attend and check their background (for reliability and quality.)" All new farmers get a personal house call from Bernadine herself. That way, "We get to see what this guy's growing and doing!" The Big Picture The H Street Market will mark the fifth successful FARMFREASH venture in less than a decade. Not a bad track record. But, if as the literature that is distributed at the market points out, "Family farms are disappearing at an alarming rate-over a million acres paved over every year!" then Bernadine's dream may be facing an impossible foe-strip malls and Wal-Marts. But the literature is also quick to point out that "Farmers markets across the country are proving that this trend can be reversed." And it seems they're right. The Green-market movement in New York City has been wildly successful. A program initiated by the Council on the Environment of New York City, Greenmarket has organized and managed open-air farmers markets in New York since 1976. The goals of Greenmarket mirror those of the FRESHFARM, that is, "to provide regional small family farmers with opportunities to sell their fruits, vegetables and other farm products to New Yorkers, (thereby) supporting farmers and preserving farmland for the future. " The result has been astounding. There are now 42 markets in 31 locations in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island, twenty of which operate year-round. Over 250,000 customers frequent the markets every week during peak season. While the statistics are impressive, they are not nearly as convincing as a Saturday spent wandering through the market at Union Square in Lower Manhattan. My years in New York allowed for many an afternoon spent wrestling with typical New York mobs, as aggressive Manhattanites haggled for the last hand-twisted Amish pretzel. My experience at the H Street FRESHFARM market one Saturday was more copasetic. A sandwich board on he sidewalk in front of the market announces, "Local farmers! Local food!" The market is still modest in size, including nine dealers as of mid-June. "We are hoping that we will start small, and grow the market slowly," explains Bernadine, "To make sure the farmers are successful." Enthusiastic shoppers mill around the tables, eyeing everything from the jams at the D&S Farm in Charlotte Hall, Maryland table, to the "Gardeners Gourmet" selection, that includes collard greens, must ard greens, peashoots, arugula, mesculin, spinach, tat soi, swiss chard, and red Russian kale. Phew. Which brings us to another important aspect of FRESHFARMS. Education. There are recipes and literature distributed at every market, and frequent chef demonstrations, to aid a situation where, as Bernadine recounts, customers find themselves overwhelmed by the selection. "There are 12 different kinds of squash here! What do you do with this?!" I watch a moon-faced little girl sidle up to one of the tables. "Daddy, cherries!" she exclaims gleefully. A middle-aged woman approaches the on site market manager. "I went to every dealer," she boasts, arms laden with bags. "And bought something from every single table". "Now what you need is a really good coffee shop here!" she exclaims. The H Street farmers market is a welcome addition to the ever more vital H Street neighborhood. As I wait for my bus to take me away (sadly without any purchases of my own, as my day of running errands hardly lends itself to a heaping market basket in hand) I notice Murry's Foods, a long time staple on that stretch of H Street. I stop in to get a soda, and am dismayed to see a postage stamp sized produce department, and row upon row of processed food items. Four different brands of boxed mac and cheese. Ten flavors of TastyKake Snack Cakes. Curious, I eye the ingredient list on the Jelly Krumpets. Thirty-seven in total. Or 38, if you count "natural flavors" and "artificial flavors" as two different items. It makes me appreciate the H Street FRESHFARM Market all the more. And just think-next week they are adding a baker to their retinue! See you at the market... Shirley Serotsky loves to consume locally grown, fresh produce and baked goods, but also recognizes the merits of an occasional TastyKake. What Do You Know About Food and Nutrition? BY LAURIE LINDSAY Quick and easy. Keep it simple. Instant results. Short and sweet. With a lick and a promise. We want things fast and uncomplicated these days so check out the 10 questions below for some speedy information and trivia about food and nutrition. 1. How many teaspoons are in a tablespoon? 2 _3 _4 2. How many ounces are in a half gallon? _24 _40 _64 3. Aunt Mary brings fried chicken to your Fourth of July picnic. Everyone eats at 7 p.m. and then goes to see the fireworks. When you return home at 10 p.m., you clean up the kitchen and discover that there is leftover chicken on a platter. Which decision below is the safest? _Discard the chicken. Do not eat it tomorrow. _Transfer the chicken to a covered container and refrigerate it immediately. _Refrigerate the chicken immediately but reheat the chicken before eating it tomorrow. 4. How long will eggs stay safe and in good quality in the refrigerator? _2-3 weeks _4-5 weeks _6-7 weeks 5. Lycopene is a pigment in plants. What color is this pigment? _red _blue _green 6. If you want to increase the fiber in your diet, which food is the best choice? _beef _oatmeal _celery 7. The Nutrition Facts Panel on a box of cereal says that one serving is one cup and that one serving provides 10% of the Daily Value (DV) for iron. In general, what does this immediately tell you? _The cereal is a low source of iron. _The cereal is a high source of iron. _The cereal makes a good contribution to the iron needed daily 8. Which combination of foods below provides at least the recommended amount of calcium for adults? _8 ounces milk, 6 ounces flavored yogurt, and 1 ounce cheddar cheese _two 8 ounce servings of milk, 1 ounce cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of canned kidney beans _two 8 ounce servings of milk, 2 ounces cheddar cheese, 1 egg, 1/2 cup ice cream 9. In a Vietnamese restaurant, an entire page of the menu may be devoted to a category of entrÇe called Pho. What type of dish is Pho? _A spicy rice dish _A noodle soup _A meatless entree 10. Who said,"Never eat more than you can lift." _Miss Piggy _Mark Twain _Dr. Atkins Take 10. of raw celery contains about .6 grams of fiber. Three ounces of broiled sirloin steak has 0 grams of fiber. Fiber contributes to feeling full after eating, reducing blood cholesterol, maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, and maintaining the regularity of our digestive systems. Many adults consume less fiber than is recommended. Aim for 25 grams a day from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. 1. 7. C. A food that supplies 10 percent of the DV in one serving is considered a good contribution to the iron needed each day. As a general guide, 5 percent DV or less is low and 20 percent or more is high. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), "The percent DV shows how much of the recommended daily amount of a nutrient is in one serving of the food." The percentage is based on eating 2000 calories in a day. Even if you do not know how many calories you eat, you can use the DV as a general frame of reference. It's helpful to eat foods that are high sources of iron since the goal is to eat 100 percent of the DV during your day. 8. C. This combination could beeaten during a day to reach the goal of 100 percent of your Daily Value for calcium. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) research shows that many Americans are getting only half of the recommended amount. Calcium helps maintain strong bones at all ages. It prevents osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become brittle and break more easily. Other roles of calcium include maintaining healthy blood pressure, muscle contraction and relaxation, and transmission of nerve impulses. For more information see the chart below and 8 ounces milk (ordinary glasses hold 8-16 ounces) 30% 1 ounce cheese 20-30% 1/4 cup grated cheese 20% 6 ounces flavored yogurt 20% 1/2 cup ice cream 10% 1 egg Only 2% 1/2 cup canned kidney beans (a small amount) Only 4 % 2. 9. B. Pho is Vietnam's traditional noodle soup. In Vietnamese cities, this soup is widely available as a street food. Residents frequently sit at low tables and chairs on the sidewalk morning, noon, or night to enjoy this meal as they chat with friends and family. In the Vietnamese restaurants in our area, Pho comes to the table as a large bowl of delicious, steaming broth that is thick with thin rice noodles. www.3aday.org. Amount of food % Daily Value (DV) for calcium When ordering the soup, you review a long list of selections and get to choose what cut of beef is added to your soup in thin slices, for example, steak, tripe, or small meatballs. Some restaurants also serve Pho made with chicken. Accompanying the bowl of soup is a plate overflowing with bean sprouts, basil leaves, and hot peppers. Add these to your soup according to your taste. Containers of hot sauce and fish sauce are already on your table to be used as condiments for the soup. As you eat with your chopsticks and spoon (and, if necessary, a fork), don't be surprised to find yourself slurping the noodles with delight. Additionally, you and your fellow diners may sniffle and perspire. It's all part of eating Pho. At the end of it all is another nice surprise: a meal of Pho is usually inexpensive. 10. A. Although Dr. Atkins and Mark Twain both said a lot about food, it was Miss Piggy who said, "Never eat more than you can lift." Laurie Lindsay, RD, LD, is a contributing writer for The Voice of the Hill. As a registered and licensed dietitian, she specializes in food and nutrition communications, particularly presentations and writing. She is the author of Making the Breast of It: A Cancer Survivor Talks About Reconstructing Her Life with Resilience, Resolve, and a Robust Sense of Humor. See www.LaurieAomari.com for more information News from the Friends of Southeast Library The Next Book Sale Will Be Held In October The Friends group - Here's an opportunity to contribute to the community in a very significant way. Volunteers for the Friends group are always needed and welcome, especially now as we prepare for the October book sale, which is our method of raising funds for library needs not included in its budget. We have fun, we do useful work, and we sometimes have cookies! Contact Janet McGregor at (202) 547-8897. Library activiti es - Volunteers with skills to share are sought for future programs; contact Candace Townsend, the Branch Manager, at (202) 698-3375. Among those activities which are currently scheduled for July are: Adults Book Club, 3rd Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Teens Art expression, cartooning. The system-wide Holla' Back summer reading program is in full swing. Prizes, such as a stereo, book bags, etc., will be awarded at the close of the program. Another summer reading program , sponsored by the Friends of Southeast Library, is also under way. Prizes will be gift certificates which can be redeemed in local stores. Children Story hour (Thursdays at 10 a.m.), lap time (Thursdays at 11:30 a.m.), preschool movies (Wednesdays at 10 a.m.), chess (Wednesdays at 4 p.m.). Some activities connected with the Summer Quest reading program for children are: Puppet theater - July 9 (Friday) 10:30 a.m. Story teller - July 14 (Wednesday) 1:30 p.m. Singer - July 23 (Friday) 10:30 a.m. Call ( 202-698-3377) or visit (403 7th Street, SE) the Library for further information on the current schedule. It's always a good idea, too, to call ahead when planning to attend a specific activity. 2004 VSA Arts Festival BY NICOLE SPIRID AKIS pplause resonated Greenberg Theater, the Hilton of the event included Panasonic, through Union Station Washington hotel and the which funded the Odyssey Stage in last month as audience Smithsonian Institution all hosted Union Station, Delta Airlines, members seated at two art and literary exhibits, dance, vocal WAMU radio station and the stages and passersby alike and theater performances, artist Rasky/Baerlein Group, Inc, a public were captivated by the 2004 VSA arts demonstrations, literary readings, relations firm. The United Nations Festival performances on an unsea-and workshops. in New York City exhibited the artsonably cool afternoon on the third Ellen Levy, spokeswoman for VSA work of the 12 Festival Fellows from day of the event. arts, said the welcome and support December 3, 2003 - January 15, Nearly 100 visitors assembled in from the community made the festi-2004, and the National Press Club the main hall watched as dancers in val a resounding success. hosted a festival exhibit in its down-wheelchairs used scarves and props "It was a wonderful outpouring of town headquarters in June. to interpret the rhythmic music that support-our volunteer support was Though this year's festival was the transcended the usual street noise amazing," she said. "I think the gen-fourth put on by the organization, a and chatter typical to the building. eral public was just amazed and sur-nonprofit largely funded by the While the main showcase for the prised by the high quality of the Department of Education, 2004 was 1,000 artists who participated in the artists work. It truly highlighted the first year it was brought 'home' festival was Union Station, Gallaudet what we do on an educational level." to Washington, Levy said, University, the Kennedy Center, The 2004 festival-which opened Previously held every five years, National Press Club, WVSA School on June 9 at the Kennedy Center- the production will now become an for Arts in Learning, the H Street boasted President George W. Bush annual event. Playhouse, Ronald Reagan National and first lady Laura Bush as hon-"Union Station was very pleased Airport, the Harold and Sylvia orary chairs. Other major sponsors with how [events] went, so we will come back," Levy said, adding that one of the most successful days of the four-day festival was the family day events held at the Station. Held in Columbus Circle, as well as inside and outside the building, thousands of visitors streamed through to view an art exhibit in the west hall, and to participate in a variety of all-age activities. Levy attributed part of the festi-val's success to its public nature, and said in most cases groups who rent space keep their events closed; in this case, the local community was welcomed and encouraged to attend. Three years in the making, the festival called artists from all nationalities and ages to apply to participate in the festival. Founded in 1974 by Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, according to the organization's website www.vsarts.org, VSA arts is an international nonprofit dedicated to 'creating a society where people with disabilities can learn through, participate in, and enjoy the arts.' Art-based programs in creative writing, dance, drama, music and the visual arts are offered by a network of affiliates in 49 states and DC, as well as 64 countries, the web-site said. National programs offered by the organization include the Playwright Discovery Award, which recognizes young adults who 'promote awareness of disabilities through creative playwriting.' Awardees receive scholarships and a production of their script at the Kennedy Center, as well as a trip to see the performance. Nicole Spiridakis is an occasional contributor to Voice of the Hill. Scenes from the various stages and exhibition spaces at Union Station during the VSA arts 2004 Festival. Performances included African dance, percussion ensembles, tales of Snow White and the Lorax, jazz and art. Photos by Scott Suchman Sailing comes to DC's other river ANDY EGGERS The Anacostia has long been urban adventure-seekers to the On summer days, Kids Set Sail, the Washington's neglected river. While Matthew Henson Center at 2000 sister program of DC Sail, takes over the Potomac boasts parks, monu-Half Street, SW. After collecting life the Anacostia. Run by Duncan Hood ments, and historic port cities, the jackets and sails, everyone heads and partially funded by the proceeds Anacostia conjures images of urban down to the dock and listens as from DC Sail, Kids Set Sail provides blight and industrial decay. Tiffany gives out instructions on children from the neighborhoods In the last year, though, white basic boat safety and rigging. In a surrounding the river the opportunisails have made an appearance on few minutes, the boats are deemed ty to learn sailing. The program the overlooked waterway, thanks to sea-worthy and push off, headed hopes to get 150 kids onto the water DC Sail and Kids Set Sail, two fledg-away from the power stations and this summer. "We try to do two ling sailing programs run by the warehouses of industrial DC and things at Kids Set Sail," says Hood. National Maritime Heritage toward Haines Point. "We introduce kids to sailing, which Foundation. Operating out of a con-"I love sailing, and I love to pass mainly means teaching them how to verted Pepco pumphouse located 20 on that love to people who are new work as a team to sail a boat. At the blocks directly south of the Capitol, to it," Tiffany says. He leads his crews same time, we want them to apprecithese programs are providing kids through basic sailing maneuvers, ate this natural resource that is in and adults from across DC a chance peppering his sailing instructions their backyard. And meanwhile, of to sail in the backyard of the with comments about the occasion-course, have fun!" nation's capital. al riverbank wildlife, architecture at The city's planning office is Thacher Tiffany, a 26-year old for-Fort McNair, and the city's develop-pleased to see DC Sail and Kids Set mer competitive sailor, runs DC Sail, ment plans for the Anacostia area. Sail establish a presence on the river. the adult program that offers "It's a view of this city that most "DC Sail is successfully demonstratevening sailing lessons on week-people never see." says Tiffany. "You ing what a tremendous resource the nights. At 6 pm each night he wel-really get a sense of what an over-Anacostia River is to this city," says comes a crew of aspiring sailors and looked resource this river is." Andy Altman, director of DC's Office of Planning. "The future of the river isn't just about real estate - it's about citizens, young and old, discovering or rediscovering what a treasure this river is. By offering sailing opportunities to young people and adults DC Sail is making the future of the river visible." Bringing sailing to the Anacostia was made possible through the joint efforts of a number of p layers. The idea began with a group of young Brookings Institution research assistants, including Tiffany, who were interested in establishing a community sailing center in the District. Their efforts attracted the attention of Rich O'Brien, who had established Kids Set Sail in Annapolis, and the Photos by Kennward Ward National Maritime Heritage Foundation, which was seeking out new ways to promote sailing education. The combination of inspiration, experience, and financial resources made the current programs possible. DC Sail and Kids Set Sail are currently in their second year and operate on a modest scale, borrowing space and maintaining only five boats. Ten years from now, they hope to have established a permanent community sailing center patterned after successful programs on the Charles River in Boston and in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. "It's one thing for the river to include a boat ramp or a marina, both of which cater to boat owners," explains Tiffany. "Community sailing is different because it offers people the chance to try out sailing without making an enormous financial commitment. And it provides benefits to more people for the same amount of riverbank." Despite all the talk about the impending revitalization of the Anacostia waterfront area, not much change is yet visible. DC Sail's sailboats share the river with sand barges destined for Anacostia's gravel yard, and the fledgling sailing cen-ter's closest neighbor is an aging power plant. But the arrival of sailing on the Anacostia is one sign that the river is taking on new life. "One of the exciting things here is that recreation is leading the way," says Uwe Brandes, Project Manager of the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative. "As much as we see tons of potential for this area, some people still tend to think of the Anacostia as an urban wasteland. But the sailing community is out ahead of that and recognizing that this is an outstanding resource for everyone." For more information about DC Sail, see www.dcsail.org. For more information on Kids Set Sail, see www.nmhf.org/KidsSetSail. Both programs are part of the National Maritime Heritage Foundation, www.nmhf.org. Day School Shared Experiences at Capitol Hill Sixth graders build a pyramid on the Mall during the annual School picnic. BY ANN DY E ew schools combine "picnic" and "standardized testing" in the same sentence; with Capitol Hill Day School it's a tradition. The annual "school picnic" on a Friday in late spring after a long week of testing is one of many events that unite children in the school. As sixth grader Noah Nichols says, "It gives kids a break and celebration. It's a main event of the year that we look forward to." Della Spradlin, a teacher at the school since 1972, remembers the first picnic on the Mall after testing in 1979, and recalls being rained out only one year. That year, instead of loading up the school buses with sports equipment and the picnic supplies organized by each class, the children created a picnic spread in their classrooms, and P.E. and other specialist teachers circulated with ideas for indoor games and activities. Rain did not interfere with tradition. This year, after picnic lunches on blankets under the trees in front of the new Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, students from different grades organized impromptu kickball and boys vs. girls tug of war games while visiting tourists stood by to watch. As sixth grader Miranda Fox puts it, "The picnic helps the school and community mix and stay together. We like it." A new tradition began this year with the Shared Stories project. Each month, a committee of teachers selects a book that can be read at all grade levels and that encourages a thoughtful discussion among students and teachers in the School. Because the whole school participates, teachers believe that the shared stories send a powerful message about the value of each individual in the community, and about how each person's behavior affects others. During the last week of school, master early childhood teacher Kathryn O'Donnell organized a school-wide vote of students and teachers, complete with secret ballot voting boxes, to select the favorite Shared Story book of the year. The voting ranged widely among the eight contenders over two days, but the final winner was Daniel M. Pinkwater's, The Big Orange Splot. The story begins when a seagull drops a can of orange paint on Mr. Plumbean's house, causing him to get a joyful idea that affects his entire neighborhood. Pinkwater's charming book celebrates creativity and individuality, not a surprising choice for a school community located on Capitol Hill. Third grade teacher Becky Amaral was especially pleased with a discussion about hidden talents springing from a reading of TaroYashima's Crow Boy. Her students realized that "many kids may not have talents that are obvious in school, like being good at math or reading, but that doesn't make each child's unique talents less important." The children in her class decided to find ways to share their own hidden talents with others through non-fiction writings, such as one third-grader's intense interest in horses and how to ride and care for them. Fifth grader Clare Mulligan remembers that Crow Boy made the point "that everybody's special and unique and that's a good thing." For many years, adults in the school have fostered the tradition of cross-grade interaction as a way to build and celebrate community. The tradition of "buddy classes" began over 10 years ago when third grade teacher Chris Doszkocs arranged a scheduled system for different grades to come together for lunch or other shared activities. "Buddies" and "buddy classes" have evolved over the years, and it's not unusual when visiting the School to see children of different ages sharing a walk to an assembly at Results Gym with their buddies, or quietly reading a book together, or buddies giving each other "high fives" in the stairwells. As kindergarten teacher Linda DeGraf says, "It helps both younger and older kids; the younger ones look up to the old, the older ones become leaders and truly care for the younger ones." This year, to celebrate its 35th birthday, the school sponsored a Family and Friends Barbecue Picnic in Garfield Park the first Saturday in Eighth grader Cal Silcox stitches an applique on the School's wall hanging. June. Rain canceled the moonwalk and face-painting activities, but a crowd gathered under a tent to twist balloons into hats and to hear graduating 8th grader Jane Abernethy's solo vocals with The Capitol Hill Day Trippers. The band also featured parents Tim Muzzio on guitar and Wayne Nicolosi on flute. Also on display at the event were large textile wall hangings created by students, teachers, and staff especially for the school's birthday. The wall hangings illustrate events and ideas shared in the school community over