JANUARY 2021 VILLAGE NEWS Japan–United States Collaborate on Aging-in-Place Study By Karin Kinney A year ago, a Japanese delegation visited Village, in cooperation with a team from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, to explore new insights on aging-in-place. The delegation was intrigued by our Village concept and marveled at the level of volunteerism in action. The team from HUD paid a return visit to Japan recently and reported on four case studies which provide a When you walk by the new Capitol Hill Village office building at 1355 E St. SE, you might do a double-take because right at the sidewalk will be a to-scale replica, serving as a Little Free Library. CHV member Bert window into innovative ways being Kubli was the designer and carpenter for the project. See more pictures on page 13. employed in Japan to support the older population there. Although not all good ideas can be implemented here, it is worth considering how the Japanese CHV Advocacy Corps Team to models can influence development in the United States, something the CHV Outline 2021 Plans Advocacy Team is actively seeking to do.  continued on page 5 Capitol Hill Village’s Advocacy and cannot afford or may not qualify Corps, which has successfully shaped for programs to offset the enormous IN THIS ISSUE approaches by the city to recognize the costs of services and supports. Our needs of older adults, will host a Zoom current priorities: Thanks to Our January Sponsor, Ingleside at Rock Creek; Take a Virtual tour of Ingleside; Thank session on February 25 at 10 a.m. to Adult Day Health Center with You for the Cookies!, p. 2 get input for a 2021 plan of action. Memory Care to serve older adults From the Executive Director, p. 3 Through persistent efforts, CHV of all income levels in Ward 6 and From the President; 2021 Gala?, p. 4 Japan–U.S. Collaborate cont., p. 5 has demonstrated that older adults nearby neighborhoods. Addressing Racism Through Reading, Reflection, have skills, knowledge, and other DC Council actions on updates to Journaling, p. 6 competencies to contribute to solving DC’s Comprehensive Plan and Welcome Vernae Rahman-Smith; Passages, p. 7 some of the city’s major challenges. other legislation to reflect and Elena Ferrante, Men, and Aging, p. 8 The CHV Advocacy Corps has recognize the growing population Village Voices; p. 9 become a trusted partner and voice of older adults and their evolving CHV Comes Together for the Holidays; Handling needs as they age. the Holidays; A Resolution You Can Keep, p. 10 in DC. Challah, Rugelach, and More; Tamara Coln is The group’s primary objective Policies and practices to recruit, Engaging for Ready Responders; Theater J has been to promote affordable, train, certify, and reimburse home Offers Classes with Discounts, p. 11 Members Weigh-In, p. 12 community-based housing and health care workers. CHV Little Free Library; Volunteers Needed for support options for older adults living The Advocacy Corps welcomes Snow Shovelling; Members Weigh-In, cont. at home or in need of facility-based new participants. Register for the p. 13 services. They advocate for older February 25 meeting by contacting Virtual CHV Holiday Party; Urban Walkers, p. 14 adults across the city, emphasizing CHV at 202-543-1778 or info@ December Events List, p. 14 those who are low- and middle-income capitolhillvillage.org. DC Villages Hosts Wellness Wednesdays, p. 22 Thank you Ingleside at Rock Creek for sponsoring CHV for the month of January! Ingleside is an organization of people imbued with a spirit of giving. As a not- for-profit organization that is dedicated to providing exceptional experiences for older adults, we are honored to support our local Villages who are providing invaluable services to our neighbors. We hope you will join us on Friday, January 15th at 10:00 for a virtual tour of Ingleside at Rock Creek (see below). From our family to yours, we hope you had a wonderful holiday and wish you a very happy and healthy new year!

Virtual Tour of Ingleside at Rock Creek Thank You CHV Capitol Hill Village encourages health facilities, nutrition services, members to explore all of the different and variety of social and cultural Cookie Elves housing and health care options programs. This will be an interactive available in the area. Join us from tour and there will be plenty of time 10:00–11:00 a.m. on January 15 for a for questions and answers, as well as virtual tour of Ingleside at Rock Creek. an opportunity to discuss next steps Located in Northwest DC, Ingleside if you are interested in getting more is an engaging community that individualized information about offers a full continuum of support the community. from independent living through Please contact CHV by Monday, assisted living, memory care, skilled January 11, at info@capitolhillvillage. nursing and short-term rehabilitation. org or 202-543-1778 to register and to Learn about Ingleside’s fitness and receive a Zoom link. Capitol Hill Village sends a big thank you to the people from all over Capitol Monthy CHV Sponsorships Hill who baked almost 2,000 holiday cookies for CHV members. Bakers CHV is seeking to partner with businesses or donors who will included members, granddaughters of sponsor CHV for a month. members, and other neighbors. Joe Kerr Contact Judy Berman for details: [email protected] and Kitz Cleary (above) were among the volunteers who packaged and delivered 202-543-1778 (ext. 104) cookies to CHV members.

2 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CAPITOL HILL VILLAGE To reach us: What Path Do We Desire? 202-543-1778 (M–F, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.) A year ago, I wrote about Paths of there’ll be tough Desire. Those are the literal paths times ahead, in [email protected] that are created when people choose ways that I can’t https://www.capitolhillvillage.org walking routes through spaces that even imagine; Capitol Hill Village differ from what the designers have and I know I’m 1355 E Street SE laid out. The example I shared is the not done grieving Washington, DC 20003 dirt path that runs through Lincoln for everything Park from the Lincoln statue to and everyone Connect with CHV at: the corner of 11th St. SE and North that’s been lost in Carolina Ave. The designers of the this year of living park laid concrete North to South and nightmares; but Judy Berman To unsubscribe, please send an e-mail to East to West. And the users of the park somehow it still [email protected] said no. As more people defied the feels like the worst-ever year is finally To become a member, go to www. expectations, a new path was created. behind us, and 2021 can only get better. capitolhillvillage.org and click on “Join.” It’s not as neat and clean as the paved “Better” can take a lot of shapes Dues can be paid online, or call the office at paths, and it still takes some courage and perspectives, whether you’re 202-543-1778. to walk that way in the rain, but it’s looking at politics, the pandemic, or To support the Village, go to www. viable, and creative, and compelling. arts, or the economy. But one thing capitolhillvillage.org and click on “Support/ And you know if Lincoln Park were 2021 promises like never before is Donate.” Capitol Hill Village is a 501(c)3 ever rebuilt, that Path of Desire would charitable institution, and your gift is tax appreciation. For as long as I can hold be integrated into the new plan. deductible. All donations are welcome! onto it, I want to remember not to I had an instinct about Capitol Hill take what I once thought of as “simple Village as a Path of Desire, and things” for granted. Getting coffee Villagers as leaders who were creating with a friend, dawdling in the bakery a new path to aging well. And that aisle of the grocery store, visiting image continues to inspire me as I think the library, working WITH people about where CHV has been and where rather than avoiding them, spending it’s going. In this new year, I want to entire afternoons with the CHV staff of the National Capital Area CHV #55474 continue to think about how we shape and CHV members and volunteers, this path. Is the Village model one attending an event in person, saying Capitol Hill Village Leaders path? Or is it multiple, parallel paths? YES to invitations (especially that all Judy Berman, Executive Director Is it stronger for its variety? Or would it important invitation to get vaccinated!). Bruce Brennan, President of the Board be stronger if it had more uniformity? I want to bring — I want all of us to Angel Freeman, Office Manager Are there economies of scale that could Pamela Johnson, Volunteer and Programs bring — this set of fresh appreciative Assistant and Peer Health Educator be developed if more villages worked eyes to the Village. I want to savor this Tomeka Lee, Director of Membership together? How can villages maximize upcoming opportunity to let us get and Outreach their uniqueness and specificity and the back to “better than normal.” Shunryu Vernae Rahman-Smith, Member Services strength of our numbers? And perhaps, Suzuki, the Zen monk and teacher, once Coordinator most importantly, how can we take wrote, “In the beginner’s mind there are Sophia Ross, Digital Media and Grant what’s great and strong about this path Program Strategist many possibilities; in the expert’s mind and share it with more communities Samantha Schiffman, Director of there are few.” I want to be a beginner Volunteer and Care Services and more people and build a less ageist, always. This strange prism of 2020, Jacquelyn Smith, Volunteer and less racist, and more equitable world? as painful and difficult as it has been Programs Coordinator But enough of philosophizing. 2020 to live through, might just yield some Meghan Wrinkle, Care Services and Program Specialist is over and I want to jump for joy. important perspectives that could make Winter solstice is past, and the days are 2021 the best year yet. Capitol Hill Village News Team lengthening again. We won’t see Spring Editor: Karen Stuck for another three months but somehow it feels like it’s already here. I know that

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 3 FROM THE PRESIDENT Turning the Page Phew! Who chores completed that otherwise CHV Board or how they got there. Get isn’t happy to might never have happened. Oh yes— these and other questions answered on see the end of sourdough bread, too! I bet we each the last Wednesday of the month, when 2020! It certainly have some funny scenes to remember. Judy and I will hold small group “Coffee was an “annus For me it’s when my wife, Louise, in her and Conversation” meetings. Sign up on horribilis” as weekly “let’s play baby dolls” Zoom chat the calendar. Some of you admitted you Queen Elizabeth with our granddaughter was caught don’t always read the CHV Newsletter! said about alone in our living room by a workman Please do! It’s full of good stuff. another bad year. who could not see the Zoom screen—he And your resolutions? Get your papers And while only saw Louise seemingly talking to in order? Get rid of the old paint & Bruce Brennan, herself as she was rocking, changing, CHV Board President we know that stuff? The Village can help! Bored and early 2021 will cooing to, and putting to bed a baby want something fun to do/Zoom? Or also be a socially-distanced, mostly doll! His head was shaking in confused want to get more involved—we want masked time—at least now there’s amazement as he asked, “Lady? Lady?” you! I bet there’s an Affinity Group hope and a light at the end of what Still cracks us up. or Committee that would love to have still is a long tunnel. But before we close the books on 2020: you join. Or a volunteer assignment Still, I will admit to some positives a BIG THANKS to all who helped you might enjoy. Or help us build coming out of this COVID-time: with the Village’s end of year appeal membership by talking to your friends learning to use Zoom and Teams to with welcome DONATIONS. (And my or neighbors about the value of the stay in touch with others; learning how special appreciation for those who put Village. Get involved with some of the the mute and unmute buttons work up with a small spate of late December fundraising activities we’re planning to on both; relearning same; making spamming as we tried to get every last take the place of the CHV Gala (see the new friends through the Village’s gift in before midnight on the 31st.) article below). telephone connection and pod-making The New Year brings not only new hope But whatever else we may resolve, I outside activities. It’s all been a regular but also new resolutions. One of mine hope we all will continue to socially reminder of the value of the Village is to continue to focus on broadening distance, sanitize, wear masks, and get to so many of us who’ve been helped communications with the membership tested and vaccinated when we can—so through this. generally. I was surprised during our we help each other get through to the And many have gotten some closets Cocktail Hour Townhall to find some other end of that tunnel. cleaned out and other long delayed who didn’t really know who is on the

V.O. What Can We Do Without a Gala in 2021? VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY COVID has spoiled it that’s for sure. Salon Dinners? Sorry, no. No crowded help us put this together It was both our Spring fun event and dinner tables or even living rooms and especially if you Spring fundraising event. We can’t these days—but it was the fascinating want to offer a vacation home bypass both of those things. So please speakers that you really signed up for, or help us sign up a fascinating soirée stay tuned as we plan: something old, right? THAT we can do! Zoom soirées guest who you know? something new, something borrowed, give us a few more seats—and we might Other ideas are also on the possibilities and something for you! lure some really fascinating speakers list such as an outdoor event, which A Spring online auction can bring us if they know they can talk to us from might be a golf tournament, an some of those vacation homes that their own living rooms, maybe even in inter-generational bike ride challenge have always been popular—perhaps their pjs. through the District, or a walking tour even more popular now as a chance to With a few more items we’ll have a full around Capitol Hill with front-yard play outside or Zoom from somewhere array of fun things for lots of folks to activities along the way. Which sound different or just sit on a different couch enjoy. Add in a celebratory finale with better to you? Which do you want looking at different scenery. These a toast to volunteers and supporters— to help with? Let us know at info@ might even appeal to even more folks maybe a flash dance living room mob? capitolhillvillage.org or 202-543-1778. than before! And we’ll call it a dang good substitute! Meanwhile, watch for communications Contact the CHV Office if you’d like to from CHV with more information.

4 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News Japan–U.S. Collaborate on Aging-in-Place Study continued from page 1 The first case study described the Tategaoka Housing Complex, located about one hour and twenty minutes west of central Tokyo. The complex consists of 2,847 apartments for 3,200 residents, 55 percent of whom are 65 or older. The city commissioned the City Health Cooperative Association to operate a Counseling Room for the elderly within the complex to provide support, to help with issues such as long-term care insurance or coordinating services with medical institutions, and to promote resident interaction. Japanese mental The third study described Yukari- On one of its visits to Washington, the Japanese health professionals are particularly delegation met CHV members and staff; from left concerned about isolated individuals ga-Oka, a suburban residential area in Sakura City 24 miles from Tokyo in the back row: Mike Canning, Mike Grace, Judy and encourage multigenerational Berman, Tomeka Lee, and Samantha Schiffman. interaction. A café in the complex serves Station. About 17,000 people live there Gail Kohn and Bruce Brennan also participated in as another gathering place, staffed in in 6,700 households, 25.6 percent of the meetings; front row, from left: Mr. Hidetoshi Togawa, Director, and Mr. Yoshiyuki Ishii, part by volunteers and residents. whom are elderly. A private developer, Yamaman, is addressing the needs of Researcher, both at Japan’s Policy Research Institute A free bicycle taxi service provides help the changing community by focusing for the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport for shoppers carrying heavy grocery and Tourism; and Mr. Ebara Chiaki, First Secretary, on ways to ensure generational Economic Section, Embassy of Japan. bags. A young volunteer driver with a diversity. The company limits the power-assisted bicycle outfitted with a number of housing units for sale people who can live independently and seat in front for a passenger and goods to roughly 200 a year. They help 72 units for people who need care. The will transport them for just a tip. elderly residents move from detached first floor houses medical and nursing When a supermarket at the housing homes to smaller, more accessible care services and support for activities complex closed, staffers at the condominiums, and they provide access of daily life, including a group home for Counseling Room prepared meals for to affordable homes for young families dementia patients, a home-visit nursing the elderly, and this developed into a with children. station, and a pharmacy. For the larger community restaurant operated by The area includes an intensive care community, there are also child-rearing volunteer residents. home for the elderly, a long-term support facilities and clinics. Students from Hosei University were health care facility, a group home for In each of its housing complexes, asked to volunteer at the center. They, residents with dementia, a cardiology the Agency is planning community in turn, soon inspired students from internal medicine clinic, and a garden cafeterias, daycare centers, centers other universities to join in. for therapy. Support services are also for life-long learning and cultural available for families with children, For the second case study, researchers interaction, and exercise classes in including an after-school day care visited the Greentown Misumi Housing collaboration with local entities. center and nursery facilities. Complex in a suburb some 40 minutes from central Tokyo, which has 945 The fourth study dealt with plans Japan has the oldest population in the rental apartments. About 40 percent of from the Urban Renaissance Agency, world with a median age of 47.4 and a the units are rented by older people. In a quasi-governmental organization, life expectancy of 85.3. Birthrates are a public-private venture, Seven-Eleven which operates 730,000 housing units at an all-time low at 7.5 per 1,000 of stores provide much-needed services for low-to-moderate income residents population. Although a bit younger, the such as healthy prepared meals, fresh in suburban communities. They are United States is not far behind with a fruit and vegetables, delivery services, planning to build communities where median age of 37.7, life expectancy of coordination of services for daily living people of all ages can continue to live an 78.5, and record low birth rates of 11.8 (replacement of light bulbs and the like), active life. per 1,000. a bulletin board with daily activities, One example is the Toyoshikidai The interim report is available at: https:// and even help with lost keys—a “lock- Complex, a six-story building. The www.huduser.gov/portal/publications/ out service.” second to sixth floors have 33 units for US-Japan-CaseStudies.html.

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 5 Addressing Racism Through Reading, Reflection, Journaling By Janet Reedy Normally, participants sit in a circle, Racial disparities in income, and since we will be participating healthcare access, education, virtually, the circle becomes employment, and treatment by the metaphorical, but remains important justice system are very real. The to the process. pandemic and the response to recent This program is intended for White murders of Black Americans by people who are ready to do the work police officers have forcefully brought of examining how we have been these disparities to the national complicit in a system that benefits us consciousness. Black Americans and causes harm to people of color. have long been calling out policies Saad says it’s for people who want that cause them harm. Many more to create change in the world and White Americans are listening now recognize the need for change within and asking how they can be part of themselves first. dismantling these policies to create a One group is currently meeting, and more equitable and just society. here’s what group members say: A sub-group of the Capitol Hill Village Anti-Racism Working Group “The book we’re using, Me and White is starting a program to help us look at Supremacy, is an excellent guide to our participation as White people in live with are structured to uphold examining and dealing with racism, White privilege and White supremacy. White dominance. Her book helps ethnocentrism, prejudice, and color It includes reading, reflection, and us understand the world view we blindness in American society.“ journaling using the book Me and have been born into as White people, “Using the journaling prompts has White Supremacy by Layla F. Saad, as and how this is still the dominant well as participating in a discussion helped me understand the issue being paradigm that we operate under and discussed in the chapter.” group of about six people. The group’s benefit from. purpose is to process what we are “This has been a safe environment to learning and what actions we can take According to Saad, the purpose of her book is to “combat racism, change the explore our thoughts and experiences to work toward a more just society. about racism. I feel that this is giving Both the journaling and the group world, and become a good ancestor.” It is organized into 28 short chapters, me a chance I have previously not had participation are important parts of to explore this topic in depth, and that this process. intended to be read one day at a time. Each chapter has questions for I am learning a great deal. It has been The words “White supremacy” are reflection and journaling. Some of the a very positive experience.” a shock to the ears of many White topics covered include White fragility, “ I believe we’ve established a level people who think of themselves as White silence, tone policing (focusing of trust in the group and each other. progressive and open about race. on the tone of what is being said I leave meetings feeling positive and We view the term as describing rather than the actual content), White ready to explore yet another topic faced hardcore fringe hate groups. But exceptionalism, colorblindness, racial by all of us.” although we have probably become stereotypes, and being an ally. more comfortable with the words These study groups will meet for “White privilege,” Saad prefers the CHV is organizing groups that one hour once a week via Zoom. term “White supremacy,” which she will meet virtually using a process Groups will have flexibility to describes as the belief that White known as The Circle Way. This is decide on their end point, which people are superior to other races a group structure that strengthens is anticipated to be about three and that it is acceptable that White dialog by promoting thoughtful months. We invite you to join, and people should be dominant over other speaking and deep listening so that if you are interested, please contact races. While many of us would deny each voice is heard with respect. Janet Reedy at [email protected]. we believe that, the term extends Leadership rotates among circle to how systems and institutions we members and all share responsibility for the quality of the experience.

6 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News Vernae Rahman-Smith Joins CHV Staff Vernae Rahman-Smith has joined and community events for youth Capitol Hill Village as Member and families in her hometown of Services Coordinator. Vernae will be Sacramento. She has over five years of spending about 50 percent of her time experience working with children and supporting members one-on-one as families and is most passionate about they navigate aging in community, being an advocate for those whose and the other 50 percent of her time voices may not have been heard. helping members and volunteers Howard University introduced Vernae develop new CHV programs. to her love for older adults during her Vernae has always had a passion graduate program, and since then for serving since watching her she has been dedicated to supporting degree in accounting and a Master mother serve the community seniors so they can age in their of Social Work degree from Howard. through motivational speaking communities. She has a bachelor’s Welcome Vernae! Passages CHV Member and Affinity Group that the group could discuss each hand California for her first teaching job, Leader Jon Schans passed away Dec. and continue to learn. He encouraged and it was at a beach party there that 3. Suzy Jampoler offered a tribute: Jon us to stay engaged, when it often was she met Leo Orleans, who would Schans came into much easier to opt-out. be her husband for 70 years before my life a couple Jon was a good friend of Capitol Hill he passed away on March 30. They of years ago. We Village. He participated in the Bridge came to Washington, where Helen were starting a Group, Cinephiles, and the Literary taught English for 30 years, and their new group, bridge Club, and also volunteered. We adventure continued as they traveled for beginners, often saw him rushing around in his the world. Helen was an avid gardener, and to encourage motorized wheelchair to community reader, and bridge player, and she loved more members we events at the Hill Center, libraries, and her Capitol Hill neighborhood. Jon Schans decided to meet churches. His beloved Washington at Labyrinth. Jon “Passages” notes the passing of Village Nationals pendant was always waving members as well as other significant stopped by one day and never left. He behind him. was sort of the “odd man out”; the events such as anniversaries, out-of- area moves, major awards, etc. If you know of only man in our growing group, and I feel very fortunate that Jon was my a Member who has experienced a passage, significantly younger than the rest of friend. I will miss his enthusiasm please send a brief paragraph to the us. But he eagerly came to our weekly for life, his complete determination to participate in everything that Newsletter editor at karenstuck@ comcast. sessions even when it was physically net. Please confirm that the member or hard. Jon asked CHV if he could host mattered to him, his love of learning, and his obvious love of his family their family/representative agrees with the meetings at his home, and soon publishing the information. he was both hosting and organizing especially his twins. And, every time the group. I see a Washington Nationals logo, I’ll remember Jon. Then the pandemic hit. At first, Where to Find All the everyone wanted to carry on with our Helen Willis Orleans, a CHV fixture News from CHV: games but we were concerned that with her husband for many years, we would endanger Jon’s health. Jon passed away on Nov. 8 in Pittsburg, Website: www.capitolhillvillage.org really wanted us to continue, but it was where she had recently moved. Helen Monthly CHV News: CHV News Archive soon clear that our in-person weekly was born in West Virginia, attended Coronavirus Hub: CHV COVID-19 Hub Ohio University, and later earned a meetings would end. That’s when Jon’s CHV Connections: Emailed each Wednesday management expertise went into high master’s degree from the University of Weekly News and Events (members only): gear. He set up regular on-line games Maryland. Adventure described her life. Emailed each Sunday using Zoom and Bridge Base Online During World War II, she (BBO). He researched how to set it up so “adventurously” traveled by train to Follow CHV on Facebook and Instagram

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 7 Elena Ferrante, Men, and Aging By Norman Metzger from the ceiling, adding to the cloud ruthless, unfaithful and unreliable; I’ve read Ferrante’s Neapolitan quartet, that came out of the walls. I rushed revealing essential strengths. The four very substantial novels linked toward the door, shouting again: women are no picnic either. Both through the lives of two girls— Lenù earthquake. But the movement was sexes come together often sometimes and Lila—and the fortunes and mere intention, I couldn’t take a step. mangling their lives, leaving a sorry misfortunes of several families in a … Lila was standing in the middle trail behind. But then both men working-class section of Naples. The of the room, leaning forward, head and women (some, anyway) are first novel in the quartet, My Brilliant down, eyes narrowed, brow furrowed, toughened by their hard experiences, Friend, takes up the story of Lenù and her hands holding her stomach as and emerge with resilience and Lila when they are eight, both born if she were afraid that it would slip determination to prevail. An in August 1944. They are in their away from her and get lost in the exclusionary view of men reading sixties in the fourth novel, The Lost cloud of plaster dust... She seemed Ferrante seems me to be tone deaf. Child, having somehow maintained a to have erased every feeling: her And in telling the story of two lives friendship through wrenching times, ears didn’t hear, her throat didn’t over almost six decades, Ferrante familial and community inhale air, her mouth was locked, her also sets out in simple but violence, lost loves, powerful language the childhood friends who universal experiences of went on to devastated lives. growing old in a society. Lenù came through with While her setting is will and talent, a successful working class Naples, what well-traveled writer, while she writes is generalizable Lila remained within the to us, not in the specifics world she was born into, but in the enormous “confining herself at a time changes in our lives as we when the planet wanted to age: in our friendships, in eliminate borders. She had disappointments in some never gotten on a train, friends, lasting joys in not to go to Rome. She had others, new friendships never taken a plane.” The and sometimes the end of end is told in the prologue old ones. to the first novel: Lila at N.B. The novels are the basis 66 disappears; everything for a television series on was gone, down to the “last hairpin.” eyelids canceled her gaze. She was HBO. Seasons 1 and 2 are available That’s when Lenù sets out to tell a motionless organism, rigid, alive now, with season 3 promised (https:// their story. only in the hands that, fingers spread, www.hbo.com/my-brilliant-friend/ Throughout their lives they shared gripped her stomach. season-2-announcement). Ordinarily, experiences that sometimes divided I won’t watch video dramatizations A friend remarked that her book of books I really liked, since they them and sometimes strengthened club thought the Neapolitan novels their bond, as when they were together take away the joy of visualizing the are suited for women not men—a characters. But I’m wrong this time. in the same room when a major comment that jarred me and led me earthquake strikes Naples in 1980. The shows I’ve watched so far are to question why I immersed myself extraordinary, and for me serve to Lenù: The earth was moving, an in what is a very substantial reading inform and strengthen the power of invisible tempest exploding under my experience. After all, aside from the novels. That said, and here comes feet, shaking the room with the howl being a male, I’m also well into the the “bad news,” I feel that before you of a forest subdued by gusts of wind. octogenarian phase of my life. But watch the series you really should read The walls creaked, they appeared men are in many ways the driving the books, especially the first two: My distended, they came unstuck and elements of the novels. They are Brilliant Friend and The Story of a were pasted together again at the variously stupid; sometimes brave; New Name. corners. A cloud of dust rained down often exploitative; not infrequently

8 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News VILLAGE VOICES Waiting to be Heard… Meet and learn from your illustrious early years of the Republic to the February 8: Karen Branan, author Capitol Hill neighbors in informal, current law governing Presidential of The Family Tree: A Lynching in free, public discussions about social, records. What roles did Franklin Georgia, a Legacy of Secrets, and My economic, and political topics. Roosevelt and play in Search for the Truth. January 11: Trudy Huskamp establishing the present pattern? And March 8: Tamara Copeland. What Peterson. Trump’s Presidential what does all this have to do with the does it mean to be a “first”?: evolving Papers—What Comes Next? flamboyant Presidential libraries that racial dynamics in the U.S. dot the country, paying homage to By noon on January Presidents from Herbert Hoover to April: Michelle Murdock. Protecting 20, President Donald George W. Bush? What will happen to the Amazon and its people—the work Trump will have the Trump Papers? Dr. Peterson will and murder of Sister Dorothy Stang. moved from the White explore these issues and more. May: Constance Citro, former House to make room director of the Committee on National for its new occupant, Trudy Huskamp Peterson is an internationally known archivist who Statistics. What did we learn from President Joe Biden. the 2020 U.S. Census? A follow-up to Trump’s Presidential papers and served as a senior staff member and advisor in the National Archives her November 2020, preview of the records also will have been cleared upcoming census. from the . Where will Office of Presidential Libraries, they go and what will become of them? and, from 1993 to 1995, was Acting June: Christian Ostermann. Markus Who will have access to them? In a Archivist of the United States, the first Wolf, East Germany's Stasi spymaster. fraught Presidential transition, these woman to hold this position. She has written and spoken extensively about Until further notice, Voices programs will questions have critical importance. be conducted on Zoom from 7:00-8:00 p.m. public policy and archives, including To explain the current situation, Trudy Details for accessing the programs will influential writings on the records of be provided when people register for the Huskamp Peterson will explore the truth commissions. history of all the Presidents’ papers, event at capitolhillvillage.org or at info@ capitolhillvillage.org. from the tradition established in the Design Tips from Donna Breslin Donna Breslin enthralled at the December Voices program describing how she designs and creates costumes for local theaters. The sketch is one she made as she designed costumes for the IN Series production of La Traviata. Pictured is the cast from the IN Series production of Enrique Granados’s opera Goyescas, which was a huge success at the Metropolitan Opera in 1916. Unfortunately for Granados, his subsequent invitation to the White House from President Wilson delayed his return to Europe, and he ended up aboard the Sussex, which was torpedoed by a German U-boat in the English Channel. Thankfully, a much less eventful result for the Washington cast.

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 9 It Takes a Village: CHV Comes Together for the Holidays By Tomeka Lee and ensuring that members are Village over the holidays. These include As we move into the engaged. COVID posed a unique the Purls of Wisdom affinity group New Year, many of us barrier to engagement, as most of our and CHV’s Mask Force for donating are thankful to be out of programs moved to a virtual platform. beautifully crafted tokens that were 2020 and looking forward However, our membership remained distributed to members, some of whom to adventures to come in steadfast in efforts to maintain a strong we may not have seen in some time but 2021. I too am thankful connection with those who were not remain in our hearts; the Membership for many things; but a as ready to replace the more personal Outreach team which coordinated recent lesson that I learned as I took interactions for the virtual world. From distribution of holiday cards; and the on the role of Director of Membership sector calls to the Village Connections CHV Board Membership Committee and Outreach renewed my faith in the Program, CHV persevered. for welcoming new members to the resilience of humankind and the power These were our outward facing CHV family. of kindness. efforts, but we also must recognize the I enter the New Year with a full heart, In membership, we often focus on members and volunteers who took their thankful to be part of an organization outreach—welcoming new members time and special talents to ensure that that recognizes that “in times like these everyone felt the warmth of Capitol Hill we all need a village.” LGBTQ CORNER A Resolution You Handling the Holidays Can Keep By Sarah Akers are supposed to cherish and support you, but instead scorn and belittle you New Year’s resolutions are passé. Who As the holiday ever thought that making a list of all season ends and is utterly abhorrent. But biological family is not the only kind of family. the unrealistic expectations we have we begin the for ourselves in the coming year was a work of the new The people we choose to bring into our lives can have as much or more promising path to self-improvement? year, many of us But how about this—instead of thinking will have spent meaning and love than any blood relative. about how to change ourselves, how time, quality or about resolving to do this one thing for otherwise, with As we forge bravely ahead into the those we love: complete or update our people we know new year, I encourage all of us to foster advance directive. and/or love as family. This season new connections within our LGBTQ+ Although an advance directive, like a may have been a welcome respite from community. By reaching out to our Medical Order for Scope of Treatment the stresses of life or may have been LGBTQ+ brothers, sisters, and siblings (MOST), is about us and the preferences an additional stressor. For better or we can build lifelong bonds that will we have for life-sustaining treatment, for worse, our families will always nurture and sustain our beautiful the people who benefit the most are the exist, whether or not we enjoy their family tree, making us all stronger. Let people who love us and who will not be company. The complicated and often us create new and better families built left wondering what we want, or worse, contradictory cocktail of emotions upon a rock of mutual acceptance and fighting among themselves when we LGBTQ+ people of any age experience compassion for each other as we strive can’t speak for ourselves. The forms upon reuniting with their families for to be the best versions of ourselves. themselves are value neutral—advance the holidays can make for tense dinner Capitol Hill Village’s LGBTQ programs directives allow you to say yes to parties indeed. are funded by the DC Department of treatment as well as to say no. They are Unaccepting families range from Aging and Community Living and tools to communicate our preferences openly bigoted, to callously indifferent, are open to any DC resident. If you to the right people at the right time. to intentionally ignorant. Some of us, would like to be added to our LGBTQ If you have questions about the different regardless of COVID-19, will not have programs email list, assist with, or kinds of advance directives available visited family this year or any other attend any of our LGBTQ programs or want assistance, contact CHV year due to these behaviors, and I do please contact sross@capitolhillvillage. Director of Volunteer and Care Services not fault them. To have a group of org or 202-543-1778 x204. Samantha Schiffman at SSchiffman@ individuals that, by genetic birthright, CapitolHillVillage.org.

10 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News Mmm … Deliveries of Challah, Rugelach, and More Hi, my name is Emerson and I just had pastries once a month, with two weeks my bat mitzvah, which in the Jewish in between. community is the step from childhood I’ll begin in January and, at first, five to adulthood. It means you have more people can sign up for each delivery. responsibilities and have to step up. For each delivery, there will be a signup I’d like to start by volunteering with link sharing what I will be baking. Capitol Hill Village. Please note any food allergies and any It’s hard for us to connect with our special requests for later deliveries. The community now because of COVID. monthly newsletter will include a story But I’d like to help by sharing my about what I’m baking, including my Jewish and holiday traditions with you. traditional Jewish pastries like family’s traditions and the connection hamantaschen for Purim, apple cake of the pastry to the holiday. Watch for the opportunity from CHV for Rosh Hashanah, rugelach, and my to sign up to receive a homemade great-grandmother’s mandelbrot. I I can’t wait to hear what you all enjoy. challah, a braided egg bread, or will deliver challah once a month and Tamara Coln is Engaging for Ready Responders Teladoc), and the person can receive Tamara said Ready Responders care, a treatment plan, and, if needed, has been doing COVID-19 testing a prescription for medication. throughout DC and is partnering with “In my role, I build strategic DC 911 as an intermediate solution to partnerships to spread the word the emergency room. about Ready in DC, Montgomery The service is covered by Medicare, County, and Baltimore,” Tamara Medicaid, and most commercial said. “With a background in case insurers (check with your company management, I’ve performed that for confirmation). More information role in hospitals and the community is available at www.getready.com, or Tamara Coln and I also have experience building by calling 202-602-0814 between 8:00 strategic partnerships.” a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Former Capitol Hill Village staff member Tamara Coln has a new role as Community Engagement Theater J Offers Classes with Discounts Director with Ready Responders, While awaiting the return of live many virtual classes, these are which uses tele-health technology to theater, Village members can take participatory, so they are social as connect people in their homes with advantage of discounted prices and well as educational. a licensed clinician. deepen their understanding and Classes begin January 5 and run Tamara explained that Ready is a appreciation for theater with on-line through March 10. For more concept that began In New Orleans as classes offered by Theater J. information, class schedules, and a solution to health care accessibility. Several theater professionals will registration go to https://theaterj. It is like an urgent care service, she lead the classes. Among them are org/classes-for-theater-lovers/ or call said, in that whatever one would go acclaimed DC actor Craig Wallace 202-777-3268. To get the discount, to urgent care for, they can call Ready leading a five-session program “An enter code VILLAGES at checkout and it can be addressed in their home. Actor Transforms” and director and online or mention it if you call. If When Ready responds to a call, a playwright Aaron Posner leading there is interest, CHV can schedule a six-session program “Beyond the “out of class” Zoom meet-ups for trained health care professional will Script: A Director’s Approach.” members of Capitol Hill Village and come to the home, ask questions, Other classes will cover how to other Villages as a way to build new and take vitals to share with their watch a play closely and how plays relationships that can carry us to the clinicians. The responder will connect are transformed into films. Unlike time when live theater opens again. with a nurse practitioner or doctor (via

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 11 Members Weigh-In The CHV News will periodically who zoom in from City, keep busy and active. I have kept up pose topical questions to readers Mexico, and India!) my exercise program by participating and invite responses. This month we (2) Smithsonian Associates programs in a low-impact exercise program asked: The last year has been quite by Zoom—no need to rush and worry with other older women outside at an experience, and it’s not over just about Metro delays to get there in Eastern Market three days a week yet! We’ve probably learned something time! (For me: Stravinsky with and continuing Pure Barre via Zoom. about ourselves—what we like and Saul Lilienstein!) I certainly plan to continue these need to do in order to cope with stress, (3) Exercising every single day by as we return to normal, although I stay connected, take care of our mind Zoom from a closed gym (or at least a hope ultimately will be able to do and body. What experiences, activities, gym I’m not yet willing to go back to)! them inside, in person. I have been etc., from this period do you plan to (For me: yoga and strength training committed to continuing to play my continue when we return to normal? with beloved teachers from Results/ stringbass, so have been having lessons Here’s what some members had to Sport and Health, including with one via Facetime, and a little chamber say. The door is not closed; anyone who is visiting family in Kyrgyzstan!) music in person, outside and masked. wanting to share their thoughts Joe Kerr: Having There has been no orchestra playing may still do so for future issues of married a woman during this time. I plan to keep up CHV News. from Wisconsin lessons, but resume in person, and last January, I had long for the day when I can go to Susan and John Sedgewick: an orchestra rehearsal again. I have (1) I am feeling so planned to divide our time more or kept up with friends on Capitol Hill Zoomed-out from by going on walks, socializing safely staring at a screen. less equally between DC and Wisconsin. outside. And, of course, I want to But the Zooms we continue to keep this up! Having had with far-flung Travel restrictions have crimped those plans, but we are hopeful that family in the area has been so key, and family members for that I am forever grateful were special. I think the arrival of a vaccine will allow us we will continue to time for more travel and allow us to Judy Edelhoff: Just before the “Zoom” with John’s older sisters. One host visitors from outside the area to pandemic, I began virtual fitness lives in Dallas, the other in Maui. We take advantage of our Capitol Hill training. My personal trainer had are doing birthday parties! proximity to so many attractions. moved to California; I didn’t see any (2) Our eating and exercise habits Wisconsin summers are more pleasant trainers at my local gym who were really improved during the pandemic. than we typically experience here as good, so I gave remote training We started making home-made in DC, while DC winters are more online a whirl. First, I began training soups for our lunches rather than a friendly than those in Wisconsin, outdoors because my indoor space sandwich. John expanded his daily making the logic of time sharing was limited. I set up my laptop in a walk to a jog. He lost a lot of weight; useful, but not a driver. Bottom line, convenient spot (a park or elsewhere). I managed to get leaner. We need to DC is likely to see less of me. When I had more space inside, we keep the healthy eating at home going Margaret moved indoors. Before I began, the forward. Crenshaw: only “equipment” I had was a yoga (3) We decided to read the newspaper Playing pickleball mat, but my trainer advised ordering online. I still kinda’ miss the paper outside! A some more items: a stability ball (and copy but do not miss having to take number of us be sure to get a pump), yoga blocks the papers out to the recycling bin. (some CHV and straps, dumbbells in varying I need to decide whether we start members, some weights, gel pads for knees, Pilates getting the paper copy again. not) find we ring, and a handheld ball. Cynthia Whittlesey: can socially distance and still get I could have continued to train (1) Book Club meetings with exercise, so we try to play every without them, but it was an option participants from all over the country, other morning, weather permitting. I wanted to pursue and am glad I even from all over the world! (For me: Deborah Edge: My response to the have these for my daily program former State Department colleagues pandemic and quarantine has been to now. They add variety, and exercise  continued on page 13

12 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News CHV Little Free Library

Capitol Hill Village member Bert Kubli created in his Bert made several tiny models before deciding on Bert used an enlarged image of the front of the CHV basement workshop a Little Free Library designed the final design. headquarters as he designed the front facade of the to look like the CHV headquarter’s building at 1355 Little Free Library. E. Street SE. It’s Snow Shoveling Season Michael Bublé, Tony Volunteers with be matched with In other words, if the sun will melt Bennett, and others may one or two CHV members who live it, volunteers get a pass! like walking through a near them, and if there is snow on the Volunteers shovel before 10 am. winter wonderland, but ground, the volunteers will contact many do not see it as “a the member they are matched with to This is an important service for many beautiful sight” when their sidewalks confirm that shoveling is needed. of our members, but volunteers are are covered with snow. needed to get it done! If you want to Some caveats: sign up to receive shoveling service, Capitol Hill Village to the rescue! Volunteers only shovel if we get want to volunteer to be a If you will need snow shoveled this more than two inches of snow. shoveler, or have questions, V.O. year—or if you can volunteer to shovel VOLUNTEER Volunteers only shovel snow if the contact CHV at info@ OPPORTUNITY the walkway of a CHV member— capitolhillvillage.org or contact the CHV Office. weather is predicted to stay below 38 degrees for 24 hours or longer. 202-543-1778.

Members Weigh-In continued from page 12 my muscles in a way that wouldn’t as good, I like the privacy of training each day to a multitude of dog walks, happen without them. For days when in my own space, and, when I am virtual workouts, and forcing myself we’re not training, I use my personal paying for personal training, I am to step away from the news at times. written exercise program, which is happy to be away from interruptions The slower pace and lots of together delivered through an email link and or distractions that occur in a gym time brought my family closer is updated as I progress. The program setting. Eventually, I will renew my together, while we tried to focus on instructions include photographs gym membership to use the heavier patience and gratitude. and videos along with my trainer’s equipment or take classes. * * * * * personal notes (number of repetitions Elizabeth Cabot-Nash: I’ve gone or variations specific to me), which through different The CHV News invites others to make it really easy to follow when I’m phases during the respond to the above question by working out on my own and so I don’t pandemic (and emailing the editor at karenstuck@ forget how to do the exercises. then there is the comcast.net. If you have ideas for Even when the pandemic is over, I election), from future questions, please let us know. don’t plan on hiring a trainer at the making a point to gym. I never found one here who was call an old friend

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 13 Annual CHV Holiday Party The CHV holiday party (via Zoom) From east of the Capitol, to old RFK featured the usual singing, including a Delivering cheer — even newbie couple of ditties penned by CHV Board Vernae! President Bruce Brennan. And we heard staff exclaim as they sped The Night Before Christmas, through the night COVID Style “Happy holidays to all, but keep your T’was the year of the COVID, we all masks on tight!!” stayed in house Un-masked Christmas (to the ‘Cept that orange-headed fellow kept tune of White Christmas) roamin’— that louse! “We’re dreaming of an un-masked The children were Zooming for school Christmas, and for play Just like the ones we used to know, All hoped that the sickness would soon Where we all could listen go away The party included a drink-making demo by Our staff were all busy — no time for Dave Seabrook (our new CHV accountant), which Without ever missin’ members were invited to follow along with. Mr. their beds Seabrook made both regular and non-alcoholic Those who hit “unmute” way too slow… Delivering cookies and blankets and versions of a rum punch. We’re dreaming we’ll all get the vaccine breads While around the Hill the staff they did With every step outside we take With me on my laptop, the Board on scatter But please stay wary, Be bright! their pads Bringing wondrous joy, some tears, and Til Dr. Fauci says “It’s alright!!!” We zoomed and agreed the BEST staff much laughter WE had! There’s Judy ‘n Jacci, Tomeka & Sam Villagers all wondered when next we could gather Meghan ‘n Sophi ‘n Angel and Pam

Urban Walkers Enjoy Capitol Hill Christmas Lights Shortly before Christmas, CHV Urban Walkers gathered as the sun disappeared behind the Emancipation statue in Lincoln Park to begin a Capitol Hill holiday lights walk. Highlights included A St. NE, where neighbors coordinate their displays and produce shimmering sidewalks and radiant surrounds, crossing yards and entwining tree boxes and street-lights. The walkers ambled past the Capitol Hill Christmas tree and marveled at the window displays of the Botanic Garden. Keeping warm with a steady pace up the Hill, the group stopped at the home, with fire pit, of Donna Breslin and Tom Chapman, and toasted the season spreading holiday cheer, masked and socially distanced, of course.

14 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News 14 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s 4 CHV Events are Both Virtual and In-Person Villagers have been able to continue some affinity groups First step is to access the CHV website calendar. and other events through Zoom and, in some cases, To register for a virtual event, members can either register in-person activities. on the website, as in the past, or they can call the CHV As part of the Phased Reopening of the Village, several Office for assistance (202-543-1778). groups are meeting outdoors. These meetings will comply After registration, you will receive a web link. At the with these CHV guidelines for outdoor in-person meetings, in meeting time, click on the link or paste it in your browser; order to protect members from transmission of COVID-19: then click on “open Zoom meetings” and then “join with Limited to 10 participants—registration required computer audio.” Masks required No computer or other internet device? No problem! You Distance of at least six feet between participants can also use your phone to call and listen in and participate Please bring your own water and snacks in a Zoom meeting. Simply dial the number listed on the Do not participate if you have had any flu-like symptoms invitation and, when prompted, enter the meeting number. or if, in the last 14 days, have tested positive for COVID-19 Voila! You’re Zooming! or been in contact with someone who has tested positive for If you need assistance accessing the calendar, contact the COVID-19. CHV Office at 202-543-1778 or [email protected]. Pre-registration for these outdoor events is If you have not participated in a Zoom meeting, it may MANDATORY, either online at www.capitolhillvillage. be helpful to watch a tutorial video, which also offers the org or by contacting the CHV office at 202-543-1778 opportunity to join a test meeting, so you can become familiar or [email protected]. This is to protect with the screen and settings. Go to: https://support.zoom.us/ participants’ safety by ensuring that the attendance limits hc/en-us/articles/206618765-Zoom-Video-Tutorials. are maintained, and to have a record of those attending if contact tracing is needed. If you would like to host a CHV event virtually, contact Jacquelyn Smith at 202-543-1778 or jsmith@ If the event is listed as “Virtual,” you can access it capitolhillvillage.org to help you organize your event through Zoom. Participants can attend either by phone specific information. (landline or cell phone) or through their computer or smart phone, where they will also have access to video.

and other items not January Events List accepted in weekly home trash pickup. Saturday, January 2, Starting at 9:00 a.m. Remove your hard Your Home drive from computers you are disposing. Wipe Hazardous Waste & Personal Shredding Pick-up your address book and personal information Note: Signup deadline is Thursday, December 31 from cellphones. Hazardous materials and personal papers will be picked No small appliances: (hand mixers, blenders, etc.) which up from members’ homes for delivery to the District’s safe can go in the regular trash. disposal site. No large appliances (washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc.) Personal papers: (medical, financial, utility bill stubs, old Call DC 311 for bulk trash pick-up. check stubs, etc.) should be put in paper sacks or cardboard No paint: Instructions on how to dispose of boxes. These will be shredded at the drop-off site and your old paint is at: https://dpw.dc.gov/service/ viewed by the CHV delivery team to ensure they are proper-disposal-leftover-paint destroyed. No drugs: Over-the-counter medicines can go in regular Chemicals and batteries: (household cleaners, garden trash. Prescription drugs—call or drop off at Capitol Hill chemicals, alkaline batteries) should be in a sturdy plastic Village for proper disposal. bag or a cardboard box—make sure the containers are If you need assistance, call the CHV office at 202-543- 1778 sealed and not leaking. or e-mail [email protected]. E-waste: (televisions, TV remotes, computers, monitors, Members Only. modems, DVD players, cellphones, NiCad batteries, etc.)  continued on page 16

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 15 14 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s 4 January Events List continued from page 15

Tuesday, January 5, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. Friday, January 8, 9:00–11:00 a.m. Virtual Event: Purls of Wisdom Your Home Join friends and neighbors for conversation and work on Goodwill Pick-up your favorite yarn project. There will not be lessons, but Do you have clothes, books, we may be able to help a bit; this is for folks with some knickknacks, or other small experience with knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, etc. items you’d like to donate to For more information, contact Nancy Lee at nancylee8891@ Goodwill? Clean out your gmail.com. house for a good cause. Donations being accepted at Goodwill of Greater Thursday, January 7, 1:30–3:00 p.m. Washington: Virtual Event: CHV Anti-Racism Working Group • Clothing in good condition Capitol Hill Village is seeking members, volunteers, and • Accessories in good condition community members to join a working group to identify • Linens and Textiles, clean and stain-free additional steps to make CHV a more diverse, inclusive and • Housewares in good and working condition welcoming place for ALL Capitol • Electronics in working condition and with ALL parts Hill residents. Please note—this • Art and Antiques, such as mass-produced items, signed session will not be a discussion on pieces, and collectibles of any kind, including books, race itself, but rather, an opportunity magazines, and comic books for members to come together and • Books and Records decide how we want to include this type of work at Capitol Please limit donations to no more than one 30-gallon Hill Village. trash bag. The Working Group was formed in August, and we are Members Only educating ourselves on White privilege and how to make CHV an anti-racist organization. The goal is to identify actionable items that will address racial issues in the Friday, January 8, 10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. community and make CHV inclusive to seniors of all races. Virtual Event: Vitas/CHV Grief During the To get involved, email Meghan Wrinkle at mwrinkle@ Holidays Support Group capitolhillvillage.org. A Zoom link will be provided before the meeting. A death changes those left behind. The grief that follows such a loss Open to All is natural and normal, but many of us find our own reactions are Thursday, January 7, 6:00–7:00 p.m. unexpected. VITAS® Healthcare invites you to a free six-week series Virtual Event: LGBTQ Social Hour of classes on Fridays, provided in LGBTQ folks of all ages partnership with Capitol Hill Village. and abilities are invited to This group is for anyone who is CHV’s LGBTQ social hour grieving the death of a loved one. Come to learn about the to connect with others, symptoms of grief, what you can expect to experience, how combat isolation, and foster to respond to the occasional hurtful statements made by relationships. Our LGBTQ well-meaning people and more. Please extend this invitation programs are funded by the DC Department of Aging and to other family members or grieving friends who may be Community Living and are open to any DC residents. To interested. There is no cost, but space is limited. register or get more information please contact Sophia at [email protected]. For log-in Information and to RSVP, contact Jasmine Blue at [email protected] or 202-414-5424

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16 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News 16 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s 6 January Events List continued from page 16 Monday, January 11, 1:00–2:00 p.m. Monday, January 11. 7:00–8:00 p.m. Virtual Event: Wyze Guyz Virtual Event: Village Voices— Although it’s not as yummy as Tunnicliff’s, the Wyze All the President’s Papers Guyz will hold a Zoom talk-session. We will continue our Archivist Trudy Peterson will talk explain what happens discussion of the election and how Village discussion groups to the papers amassed by Presidents; where will the Trump like ours have to adjust for an extended COVID-19 season papers go; who will have access to them? See story on page 9. on-line: what changes if any should we make?

Wednesday, January 13, 1:00 pm. Monday, January 11, 2:00–3:00 p.m. Virtual Event: CHV Family Caregiver Meet-up Virtual Event: Wellness Wednesday—Creative Care *Leader Sought Hosted by Palisades Village, this is the beginning of a This a confidential, peer-led community space where 12-session weekly series hosted by CHV and the other caregivers can receive respite through sharing challenges, Villages in DC. See story on page 22. delights, expectations, and frustrations among fellow caregivers. This is a group of caregivers who live on or near For this program, register at www.palisadesvillage.org Capitol Hill although loved ones may live across the country, Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86150464166 around the block, or in your home. Caregiving is different for everyone. Some of us provide direct care, some of us Wednesday, January 13, 2:00-4:00 p.m. help manage a team of paid caregivers, some of us provide emotional or physical support. Our loved ones have different Virtual Event: Poetry Readers needs, diagnoses, and symptoms. What we have in common Each attendee may (but is not required to) bring a poem is our shared sense of love and responsibility for a close to read and share with the group. Join us for a lively friend or family member. conversation about what we think the poem means and Our peer lead Family Caregiver Meetup is searching for a more exploration of the topics the poems touch on. This is new peer leader. If you, or someone you know is a caregiver a virtual meeting so please email a copy to jureedy@yahoo. and may be interested in leading this group, please let us com so it can be shared with other attendees. know! Peer leaders will receive support from the CHV Care Services staff; no prior experience leading groups required. Thursday, January 14, 6:00–7:30 p.m. Virtual Event: Cinephiles Monday, January 11, 3:30–5:00 p.m. Participants should try to see as many of these streaming Virtual Event: Long-term HIV/AIDS Survivors films as possible for discussion: Capitol Hill Village has formed a connection Mank—Citizen Kane controversy vs Orson Welles (Netflix); group for Long Term HIV/AIDS Survivors. The Prom—Broadway musical foolishness with Many acquired the condition when it was, Meryl Streep (Netflix) in most cases, a death sentence, and spent Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom—Viola Davis in adaptation of younger years surrounded by death and loss August Wilson’s play (Netflix) of loved ones, friends, and their future. As the COVID pandemic continues to disrupt lives, Uncle Frank—unexpected lover appears at a family funeral CHV aims to establish a community space for people living (Amazon) with the reality of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the midst of One Night in Miami—fictional meeting of Muhammad Ali, COVID-19. Sam Cooke, and Malcolm X (Amazon) Queen’s Gambit—child prodigy becomes one of the great Like most CHV groups, it will be primarily peer-supported, female chess players (Netflix series). with a social worker to facilitate and offer resources. Settle in with tea, coffee, or other favorite beverage, and join online Members and Social Members. or by phone to begin your week among friends.  continued on page 18

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 17 16 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s 6 January Events List continued from page 17 Friday, January 15, 10:00–11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 21, 1:30–3:00 p.m. Virtual Event: Tour of Ingleside at Rock Creek Virtual Event: CHV Anti-Racism Working Group Capitol Hill Village encourages members to explore all of See entry for January 7. the different housing and health care options available in the area. See story on page 2. Thursday, January 21, 6:00–7:00 p.m. Virtual Event: LGBTQ Social Hour Tuesday, January 19, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. LGBTQ folks of all ages and abilities are invited to Capitol Virtual Event: Purls of Wisdom Hill Village’s LGBTQ social hour! We will come together Join friends and neighbors twice a month to connect with others, combat isolation, and for conversation and work foster relationships. Our LGBTQ programs are funded by on your favorite yarn project. the DC Department of Aging and Community Living and There will not be lessons, but are open to any DC resident. we may be able to help a bit; To register and get more information contact Sophia Ross at this is for folks with some [email protected]. experience with knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, etc. Saturday, January 23, 1:00 p.m. For more information, contact Nancy Lee at nancylee8891@ gmail.com. Meet at Lincoln Statue, Lincoln Park Urban Walkers: H Street Murals Tuesday, January 19, 4:00–5:30 p.m. This month, the CHV Urban Virtual Event: CHV Literary Club Walkers will explore the murals on and around H Street NE. Note: Signup deadline is Noon, Monday, January 18 These monthly walks explore In January, the Village Literary Club the history and beauty of will read Colum McCann’s novel Capitol Hill. Walkers frequently Apierogon (2020, 475 pp). contribute “inside stories” while This book—both a novel and a passing places known to them. historical document—is about the Open to All unlikely friendship of two men, two grieving fathers, one Palestinian and one Israeli, who both lost Monday, January 25, 6:30–8:00 p.m. daughters in the Palestinian/Israeli Virtual Event: Iona/CHV Support Group for conflict. The basis of the book is the true story of the girls’ deaths Caregivers of Individuals with Dementia and the resulting bond between the two men. The book This support group is for spouses, partners, adult children, includes the voices of the fathers as well as their back-stories, and others who are coping with the challenges of being related “micro-stories” of the conflict, as well as seemingly a caregiver for an older family member or friend with unrelated fragments—natural, geographic, political—that in dementia. Join us to share your experience and to get the end connect to the senseless deaths of the two girls. Both support and helpful information. The group is led by fathers have become activists for peace, speaking together professionals from Iona. around the world about the necessity of a peaceful end to There is currently a wait-list for new participants to join. the conflict. The New York Times calls this complex book Please contact CHV at 202-543-1778 to be added to the list. “powerful,” “an empathy engine...which provides a rich and comprehensive context that allows us into the fathers’ Open to all. Reservations required. experiences, their histories, their minds.” Members and Social Members.  continued on page 19

18 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News 18 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s 8 January Events List continued from page 18 Wednesday, January 27, 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 3, 6:00–7:30 p.m. Virtual Event: Wellness Wednesday— Virtual Event: History & Biography Medication Management for Older Adults Our book selection is David Hosted by Waterfront Village, this is part of a 12-session Halberstam’s The Coldest Winter: weekly series hosted by CHV and the other Villages in DC. America and the Korean War See story on page 22. (2007; 657 pages + notes; available from Amazon in paperback, Kindle, Information on registration and Zoom link will be provided and audio). Halberstam considered prior to the session. this his finest work—he decided to write it shortly after finishing Thursday, January 28, 3:00–4:00 p.m. The Best and the Brightest, and it took him nearly 10 years to Virtual Event: Parkinson’s Support Group complete. He gives us a masterful The Parkinson’s Support group is for individuals with narrative of the political decisions Parkinson’s to share knowledge, challenges, and ideas and to and miscalculations on both sides of that conflict. At the provide encouragement to one another. Additionally, we are same time, he provides us with the individual stories of the all encouraged to form and maintain a team of support and soldiers on the front lines who were left to deal with the communication with friends and family consequences of those decisions. Andy Jampoler will lead the discussion. Open to All Also, plan to submit your suggestions for books for the rest of 2021 and into 2022. If there is time, we might bring Tuesday, February 2, 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. up some ideas for books to be considered—but formal Virtual Event: Purls of Wisdom consideration and voting will take place shortly after suggestions are received and collated in early February. Join friends and neighbors for conversation and work on your favorite yarn project. There will not be lessons, but Registration is required. Contact the CHV office at 202-543- we may be able to help a bit; this is for folks with some 1778 or info.capitolhillvillage.org. to register and obtain the experience with knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, etc. necessary Zoom link. For more information, contact Nancy Lee at nancylee8891@ gmail.com. Saturday, February 6, Starting at 9:00 a.m. Your Home Wednesday, February 3, 1:00 p.m. Hazardous Waste & Personal Shredding Pick-up Virtual Event: Wellness Wednesday— Note: Signup deadline is Thursday, February 4 Cooking Demonstration Hazardous materials and personal papers will be picked Hosted by up from members’ homes for delivery to the District’s Village, this is part of a safe disposal site. See the January 2 entry for further 12-session weekly series information. hosted by CHV and the Members Only. other Villages in DC. Monica Heppel will demonstrate making Monday, February 8, 2:00–3:00 p.m. multigrain pancakes. See Virtual Event: CHV Family Caregiver Meet-up story on page 22. *Leader Sought Information on registration See the January 11 entry. and Zoom link will be provided prior to the session.

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January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 19 18 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s 8 January Events List continued from page 19 Monday, February 8, 7:00–8:00 p.m. Mondays, 10:00 a.m.-12 Noon Virtual Event: Village Voices—Karen Branan Virtual Events: DC Center for LGBT Community— Branan is author of The Family Tree: A Coffee Hour Lynching in Georgia, a Legacy of Secrets, On Mondays, from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon, it’s the Coffee and My Search for the Truth. See page 9 for Drop-in, hosting friendly conversations on current issues. further information. Contact [email protected] to get the Zoom link. Open to All Mondays & Wednesdays, 1:00–3:00 p.m.; Ongoing Events Tuesdays & Fridays, 2:00–4:00 p.m. Virtual Event: CHV Bridge Club Mondays, 9:00 a.m. The CHV Bridge Club U.S. National Arboretum, 24th & R Sts. NE meets virtually, playing Easy Strollers *On Hiatus until March bridge online. We welcome CHV members who The Easy Strollers will walk (socially distanced) at the understand bridge and who National Arboretum for about 45 minutes on paved have an interest in Bridge paths. Enter the Arboretum at 24th and R Streets NE, off Base online. Many new Bladensburg Rd. After passing through the gates, parking is players started with mini- in the lot directly ahead. Walk to the front of the adjoining bridge and now play four Administrative Building, where we will meet. days a week using the online software, Bridge Base. If you plan to join the walk and need a ride, notify Vira We continue to increase our knowledge of bidding and Sisolak at [email protected] and the Capitol Hill playing. We are learning and using American Standard Village office at [email protected] or 202-543-1778. bridge conventions. At times the group coordinates among We will cancel if there is rain or the temperature is below 50 themselves to bring in a professional instructor. degrees F. If you have questions or want to play, email Deborah Hanlon at [email protected]. Mondays, 2:00 p.m. To sign up for Bridge Base, go to https://www.bridgebase. Second and I Sts. SE (south of Garfield Park and freeway) com/v3/ Petanque Join a group of Capitol Mondays, 2:00–3:00 p.m. Hill game enthusiasts for a Turtle Park, 7th and North Carolina Ave. (north of Eastern friendly game of Petanque, Market) which is the French game Tai Chi of boules and similar to the Italian game of bocce. Paul Tai Chi meets outdoors, weather permitting—at least 40 Cromwell provides instruction for beginners. degrees and sunny. On fairly warm rainy days, that are not torrential, we can meet under the Eastern Market canopy. As an in-person activity, this event follows these guidelines: Practice the beautiful and healthy art of Tai Chi. Most (1) Limited to 10 participants; (2) Masks required; (3) classes devote one-half hour to exercises and review of the six-foot distance between participants; (4) bring your own basic postures and the other half-hour to learning new water and snacks; (5) Do not participate if you have had any postures. Both beginners and those experienced in Tai Chi flu-like symptoms or, in the last 14 days, have either tested can benefit from both half-hour sessions. positive for COVID-19 or been in contact with someone who has tested positive. Open to all. Reservations and masks required; maximum 10. Registration required.  continued on page 21

20 • January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News 20 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s Ongoing Events List continued from page 20 Tuesdays, 10:00–11:00 a.m. St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 301 A St. SE; in the garden on All the News from CHV: A St. • Website: www.capitolhillvillage.org • Monthly CHV News: CHV News Archive • Coronavirus Hub: CHV COVID-19 Hub • CHV Connections: Emailed each Wednesday • Weekly News and Events (members only): Emailed each Sunday • Follow CHV on Facebook and Instagram

Wednesdays, 12 Noon–1:00 p.m. Qigong Virtual Event: Meditation Hour Qigong is a form of gentle exercise, suitable for any age or Patrick Hamilton will guide physical condition, that consists of flowing movement and simple exercises, that alone breathing techniques. They are designed to improve the or in combination can help function of internal organs, vascular systems, and muscular break the cycle of mental and joint health. In addition, the practice may enhance stress we experience and can circulation and sleep and relieve stress. be incorporated easily into your daily schedule. Patrick is Open to all. Reservations required. a member of the Washington Buddhist Vihara and Bhavana Forest Monastery and Retreat Tuesdays, 12 Noon–1:30 p.m. Center in West Virginia. Virtual Event: Second Wind Chorus Open to All

Mondays and Thursdays, 4:00-5:00 p.m. Virtual Event: Chair Yoga Energize your overall sense of well-being. Strengthen the body and relax your mind. Practice proper balance and breathing techniques. Join us for an Second Wind is a community chorus that has enjoyed enjoyable hour of mellow flow making music together for over a decade on Capitol Hill. chair yoga, as we improve the Members have varied backgrounds in music, and welcome body/mind connection with anyone who loves to sing and wishes to join the chorus. soothing music. A straight back Although we cannot sing in person at the present time, we chair with no arms, is all that is continue to meet weekly and rediscover the joy of music- required! CHV member Robin making and performance through a variety of musical Blum, leads the class. You don’t enrichment sessions, including music theory, sight singing, have to be a Village member to vocal pedagogy, master classes, and a song recording project join this Zoom class. Namaste! to create a virtual choral performance. Visit our website at Open to All www.secondwindchorusdc.com or call Marsha Holliday at 202-544-2629 for more information.

January 2021 Capitol Hill Village News • 21 20 • M a y 2015 C p i t o l H V g e N ws J n u r 2 0 1 w s DC Villages Hosts Wellness Wednesdays Start the new year on a healthy note! February 3: “Cooking Demonstration with Monica Beginning January 13, Capitol Hill Village and other Heppel—multigrain pancakes,” hosted by Dupont DC Villages will host Wellness Wednesdays for Village Circle Village members citywide. The series will address physical and February 10: “Declutter Your Life,” hosted by Brookland emotional wellness through Intergenerational Village programs on fitness, health care, February 17: “Living Long and Loving Well,” hosted by nutrition, and self-care. Kingdom Care Village DC is home to 13 Villages, which February 24: Topic TBD, hosted by Foggy Bottom West have a shared commitment End Village to improve the health and well-being of their members. March 3: “Gentle Yoga with Mayu,” hosted by Northwest Information on registration and Zoom links will be Neighbors Village provided prior to the sessions. March 10: Topic TBD, hosted by Georgetown Village Wellness Wednesday Schedule March 17: “Understanding Telemedicine,” hosted by (all programs at 1:00 p.m.) Capitol Hill Village January 13: “Creative Care,” hosted by Palisades Village. March 24: “Chair Yoga,” hosted by East Rock Creek Register at www.palisadesvillage.org Village Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86150464166 March 31: “Mobility as We Age,” hosted by Cleveland & January 27: “Medication Management for Older Adults,” Woodley Park Village hosted by Waterfront Village April 7: Topic TBD, hosted by Mount Pleasant Village

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