Doing, Reading, Eating, Watching – Feb 20, 2023

February 20th, 2023 – February 27th, 2023

With another month almost done, I hope you are crushing Q1 of 2023 because I’m rooting for you!! I’m currently in California celebrating the launch of the Charlotta Bass Labs at USC, more on that soon!!

I went to the Mindful drinking festival and it was a really dope experience. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, go read all about it! In this week’s Doing, Reading, Eating, Watching – Let’s talk events around town, what books to check out, food to eat and what interesting TV/Movies have been on!!! Contining to call in a year of good friends, dreaming big and travel, lots of travel!! If there are any events you think I should add to the roundup, feel free to shoot me a message!!

Doing – Feb 2023

Mind Your Business
What: A blind tiger x creative theory ageny co-branded BLACK HISTORY MONTH event aiming to highlight local BLACK-owned businesses, hustlers, and creatives. The event entitled, “MIND YOUR BUSINESS” uses satire of gossip news and media to remind us that our daily focus shouldn’t be trash blogs and rumors, but instead uplifting and supporting our community.  
Where: Hill Prince on H Street NE (1337 H Street NE)
When: February 20^th, 5:00PM – 10:00PM
Tickets: https://www.whatstba.com/e/myb

It’s Complicated: A literary reading
What: Head to Doubles DC for a night of local poetry, non-fiction, and fiction. This month’s featured writer is local poet Chet’la Sebree who will be reading from her debut essay collection “turn (w)here: a Black woman’s route to rootedness in America”. Plus you’ll hear from other local writers too! 
Where: Doubles, 3118 Georgia Avenue Northwest Washington, DC 20010
When: February 21, 7:30 PM
Tickets: Free

Mardi Gras Event
What: The Magic Bass is bringing the traditional jazz sound of the Crescent City for a Fat Tuesday celebration. Come on out and get a big bite of New Orleans to start your pre-spring mood.
Where: 30 Ridge Square Northwest Washington, DC 20016
When: February 21, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM EST
Tickets: Free

Black History Month Comedy Special
What: Celebrating Black History and culture while supporting Black owned businesses, with some of the funniest Black comedians in the East. We are celebrating this month in the best way we know how: laughter! In the same way that there is no way to define art, there is no way to define the Black experience in America, and we are lucky enough to be connected with many comedians and entertainers that can share their stories and tickle our funny bones in the process.
Where: Kramers, 1517 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC 20036
When: Feb 22, 7:30 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/super-spectacular-black-history-month-special-tickets-526614968547?aff=erelexpmlt

Story Candles and Goods
What: Story Candles and Goods inspire storytelling and nostalgia through scent. In this two-hour workshop, participants will be guided in making two 8oz. candles. Craft your own custom scent from a selection of essential oils and leave with the know-how for making your own candles at home! 
Where: Doubles, 3118 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20010
When: Feb 22, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.doublesdc.com/product/candle-making-with-story-candles-and-goods/333?mc_cid=9aee580bff&mc_eid=c0732afe73

Hamilton de Holanda and Nduduzo Makhathini, Routes of Discovery
What: Brazilian bandolinist Hamilton de Holanda and South African pianist, healer, and improviser Nduduzo Makhathini live on different sides of the Atlantic but are connected through the diaspora of African musical culture spread through the slave trade. As musical brothers, they developed Routes of Discovery—a transcendent musical saga of the struggles and shared memories within their communities.
Where:  STUDIO K, The Kennedy Center
When: Feb 23 2023, 07:30 PM
Tickets: https://www.kennedy-center.org/whats-on/explore-by-genre/jazz/2022-2023/routes-of-discovery/

Mother of All Comedy Shows
What: The Mother of All Comedy shows brings together amazing comedians for a hilarious stand-up comedy show presented at Busboys and Poets Takoma. This show is a comedy by women and funny for everyone so grab your roommate, your mom or just come yourself and get ready for the laughs. 
Where: Busboys and Poets Takoma, 235 Carroll Street NW Washington, DC 20012
When: February 23, 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mother-of-all-comedy-shows-tickets-500287763167

Arturo Sandoval – An Evening with the Legend
What: Sandoval is one of the most dynamic and vivacious live performers of our time, and has been seen by millions at the Oscars, at the Grammy Awards, and the Billboard Awards. He has been awarded 10 Grammy Awards, and nominated 19 times; he has also received 6 Billboard Awards and an Emmy Award. The latter for his composing work on the entire underscore of the HBO movie based on his life, “For Love or Country” that starred Andy Garcia as Arturo. His two latest Grammy award winning albums, “Dear Diz “Everyday I think of you” and Tango “Como Yo Te Siento” are now available worldwide. 
Where: Carlyle Room – 1350 I Street, NW Washington, DC 20005
When: February 24
Tickets: https://www.instantseats.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=buy.layoutSeatSelect&eventID=8C798BA5-CF62-48FC-BE97BC773C11D91B&packageEventID=&CFID=6330573&CFTOKEN=b30a5934dd92fb1a-D2B25966-C753-33FC-58576BC3DB09B2B1

Stand up comedy: inter-generation roast battle
What: Each generation (genZ, millennials, genX, boomers) will be represented by two comics, who will roast the other generations. The show will include two rounds. At the end of each round, the audience will vote, by applause, for the winning comic/generation.
Where: The Barking Dog, 4723 Elm Street, Bethesda, MD 20814
When: February 24, 8:00 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stand-up-comedy-inter-generation-roast-battle-tickets-483603429877?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

A Family Reunion: Community Celebration of Resistance in the District
What: Join BLM DC as we celebrate the release of our 2020-2021 Impact Report, reestablish community bonds, and focus efforts on Black people building power in Black DC neighborhoods.We invite our supporters, extended families, community members, organizers, advocates and activists to celebrate with us, learn more about BLM DC’s impact and upcoming initiatives, and connect with the community. Bring the whole family out!
Where: Eaton DC 1201 K Street Northwest Washington, DC 20005
When: February 25, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM EST
Tickets: Free (Reservation required)

Ice Yards
What: This arctic experience will be jam-packed with frosty fun including ax throwing, a snowboard simulator, glacial Instagrammable moments, live ice carving, and can’t-miss giveaways! Don’t forget to warm up at one of our toasty fire pits with snacks and beverages from participating Yards restaurants.
Where: The Yards Park, 355 Water Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
When: February 25, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ice-yards-tickets-518758940957?_gl=1%2Amq0bo7%2A_up%2AMQ..&aff=ebdsoporgprofile&gclid=Cj0KCQiA_bieBhDSARIsADU4zLeyynlpkE0LqTM16aine4Oc7Qw9onWl4sUEKvfXvGvOXZ1YHVK5RTkaAiT2EALw_wcB&utm_source=pocket_reader

Keep the Beat Week with Black Alley
What: The local band Black Alley has a history of producing Soul Garage, a sound that has been inspired by Go-Go music. Last year, the band embarked on a journey to Ghana to explore the roots of Go-Go music and documented the trip on film. Members of the band will share their experiences and offer a sneak peek into their forthcoming documentary. The film captures the beauty of the country and features interviews with those who share their love and passion for music.
Where: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library – Central Library
When: February 26
Tickets: Registration required

Live Jazz & Poetry with the American Poetry Museum
What: Join us for live poetry readings and jazz featuring artists: Maria Fernanda and Jeffrey Banks, accompanied by bassist Pepe Gonzalez, drummer Joel Santiago, and guitarist Cristian Perez. This program is sponsored by the American Poetry Museum, founded in 2004, APM is one of the first museums in the world dedicated to collecting, interpreting and presenting American poetry.
Where: Mt. Pleasant Neighborhood Library
When: February 26, 3:00pm – 4:30pm
Tickets: Free

Clarendon Ballroom: Mardi Gras “Retox Brunch”
What: Clarendon Ballroom will be hosting a Mardi Gras edition of its classic “Retox Brunch” on Saturday, Feb. 25! Join the party for bottomless food stations, multiple DJs, live music, dancing, giveaways, a mimosa ice luge, $15 champagne bottle specials + more. General admission is free with an RSVP, and priority seating is $25 (includes unlimited buffet, welcome shooter, fast pass entry, mimosa and champagne deals, and a reserved seat to see all the action upfront).
Where: Clarendon Ballroom
When: February 25

Michele’s: Laissez les bons temps rouler
What: Come hang out for a Mardi Gras Celebration and party like a New Orleanian at Michele’s! New Orleans style food (classics such as Cochon de Lait, Seafood Jambalaya, and King Cake, as well as some Michele’s classics like Crawfish Hushpuppies) and NOLA cocktails will be flowing with live music. Guests can reserve here, ($95 pp) children ($30+) are welcome during this daytime fest!
Where: Michele’s – 1201 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005
When: Sunday, 2/26 at 12pm!

Open Mic Comedy Bingo
Who: Public Laughs
What: What is Open Mic Comedy Bingo? The cards have blocks you fill in when you see what they say in the show. For example, if a block says “pun” you would fill in that block when a performing comic says a pun joke. WIN BINGO ANY WAY – Any way you win bingo will win you a prize! But the first with a complete blackout card or the closest one to it, in the end, wins a gift card that could cover their entire tab!
Where: Public Laughs 1214 18th St NW Washington, DC 20036
When: Tuesdays, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM EST
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/open-mic-comedy-bingo-tickets-423722644837?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Not Another Drag Show
Who: Logan Stone
What: Join Logan Stone every Monday at Dupont Italian Kitchen for ‘Not Another Drag Show’, a high energy good time show to kick off your week!
Where: DuPont Italian Kitchen 1637 17th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
When: Mondays at 8pm
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/not-another-drag-show-tickets-210258828817?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Who: Free Weekly Bingo Series at The Fainting Goat
What: Get out of the house and turn your Tuesday into fun with DC Fray and The Fainting Goat for our FREE, in-person, bingo series running on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Fray will provide the game night host, bingo materials including daubers, and awesome prizes. COST // NOTHING! This event is totally free, all you have to do is show up just as you are. WHAT DO I GET? // Your ticket comes with six to eight rounds of bingo and an evening of fun!
Where: Fainting Goat
When: Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-weekly-bingo-series-at-the-fainting-goat-tickets-475260766747?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Fridays at the Saloon (presented by Kinda Live Comedy)
Who: Kinda Live Comedy
What: Join Kinda Live Comedy for a FREE comedy show at the non-profit Saloon on U St. Enjoy some of the regions best comics for a cause! Doors open at 7:30pm; show at 8:00pm. The show will have an hour and a half run time. Every week we bring you local and touring comedians right here for you to see for free. Comedians on our lineups have credits including Hulu, HBO, and Comedy Central. Every week is we have a new lineup, so every show brings you a unique experience with some of the best talent in the city. This show is held at the Saloon on U St. The Saloon is a non-profit bar and their proceeds go to building schools around the world. While the show is free, we recommend a purchase of a food or drink item to support the bar, and its mission of building schools around the world!
Where: Saloon 1205 U Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
When: Fridays
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fridays-at-the-saloon-presented-by-kinda-live-comedy-tickets-238847588567?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Other Places to visit –
Museums – Rubell Museum – https://rubellmuseum.org/dc
Theaters – https://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/
DC Commedy Loft – https://www.dccomedyloft.com/events

Reading – Feb 2023

Book of The Week:
Author: Charmaine Wilkerson
Title: Black Cake
Description: Can Bryon and Benny reclaim their once-close relationship piece together, eleanors true history and fulfill her final request to “Share the black cake when the time is right?” Will their mothers revelations bring them back together or leave them feeling more lost than ever.
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Release Date: November 29, 2022

I just finished The Courage to Be Disliked: How to Free Yourself, Change Your Life, and Achieve Real Happiness by: Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga and I’m definitely an Adlerian convert now!! About to move on to The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture by Gabor Maté & Daniel Maté. Still working my way through Christine Platt’s The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living with Less cause I gotta do the work. Relistening to the High Five Habit, Mel Robbins is truly a treasure and sometimes you gotta read it twice!!

Added To The Reading List:
*Tricia Hersey, aka The Nap Bishop – Rest Is Resistance
*Glory Edim – On Girlhood: 15 Stories from the Well-Read Black Girl Library
*Chloe Louvouezo – Life, I Swear
*Helena Andrews – The Mamas: What I Learned About Kids, Class, and Race from Moms Not Like Me
*Yasmine Cheyenne – The Sugar Jar, Create Boundaries, Embrace Self-Healing, and Enjoy the Sweet Things in Life
*Bevy Smith – Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie
*Alex Elle – How We Heal: Uncover Your Power and Set Yourself Free
*April Ryan – Black Women Will Save the World: An Anthem
*Jennette McCurdy – I’m Glad My Mom Died

Eating – Feb 2023

I love food (obvi!!) and wanted a space to share some exciting food/eating.

Parlour Victoria: Atlas’s First DC concept, led by five-time Food Network Winner formerly at St. Regis DC, opens in City Center district
Nestled in one of the most historic Victorian era buildings in DC, Parlour Victoria, the newest concept from Atlas Restaurant Group, is a sophisticated seafood tavern highlighted by one of the area’s most impressive raw bars. The menu, curated by five-time Food Network winner Chef Brandon Sumblin (previously Executive Sous Chef at The St. Regis Hotel in DC), features one of the largest oyster programs in the area as well as lobster rolls, moules frites and dry-aged steaks. Located in a 19th century, historial townhome on 11th and K (adjacent to the Moxy Hotel) features whimsical design details like gold fixtures and opulent sofas.

Imperfecto: Women in Wine 2/22 with exclusive wines from Jackson Family Collection 
Join sommelier Raquel Ortega at Michelin-starred concept, Imperfecto, on 2/22 for their next Women in Wine dinner! Raquel will feature the most exclusive wines from the Jackson family collection with their regional manager and friend of the restaurant, Claudia Chamberlain! Each of the wines will be paired with a beautiful bite, hand-crafted by recent James Beard Semifinalist and Michelin-starred Chef Enrique Limardo. Tickets here, $250 pp.

Clarendon Ballroom: Mardi Gras “Retox Brunch” at Ballroom 2/25
Clarendon Ballroom will be hosting a Mardi Gras edition of its classic “Retox Brunch” on Saturday, Feb. 25! Join the party for bottomless food stations, multiple DJs, live music, dancing, giveaways, a mimosa ice luge, $15 champagne bottle specials + more. General admission is free with an RSVP, and priority seating is $25 (includes unlimited buffet, welcome shooter, fast pass entry, mimosa and champagne deals, and a reserved seat to see all the action upfront). 

Moon Rabbit & Native Vietnamese-Cajun Chef Kevin Tien Celebrates this Saturday 2/26
Let the good times roll on Saturday, 2/26 at Moon Rabbit starting at 2pm! Native Cajun Chef Kevin Tien is thrilled to celebrate this year with a Louisiana Style Crawfish boil outside on the terrace ($40), served in a traditional plastic bag to go or enjoy on the patio. The restaurant will also have a float in this year’s DC Wharf parade which will blare Cajun music & colors, plus offer beads, cups and giveaways. 

Michele’s: Laissez les bons temps rouler on Sunday, 2/26 at 12pm! 
Come hang out for a Mardi Gras Celebration and party like a New Orleanian at Michele’s! New Orleans style food (classics such as Cochon de Lait, Seafood Jambalaya, and King Cake, as well as some Michele’s classics like Crawfish Hushpuppies) and NOLA cocktails will be flowing with live music. Guests can reserve here, ($95 pp) children ($30+) are welcome during this daytime fest! 

Gravitas: The Secrets of Koji & Fermentation Series 2/26 and 3/1
Chef Matt Baker and team are thrilled to present a special series on Koji & Fermentation, Japan’s secret culinary weapon, a result of his recent trip to the Hokuriku region of the country: 1) On Saturday, 2/25 at 12pm, Michelin-starred Gravitas will host a Koji Lecture and Demo on Koji with a 3-Course Lunch (Tickets: $75 + with optional sake pairing for additional $40), reservations can be found here. A private industry class will be offered to DC’s top chefs the day after. 2) On Wednesday, March 1st, Chef Matt and the team will be preparing a special 5-course tasting menu with sake and wine pairings inspired by the trip. Reservations can be made here, 5-9pm (Tickets: $220 + with optional sake and wine pairing for an additional $80).

Rebel Taco K Street: New Brunch and $14 cocktails 
Rebel Taco K Street launched their new brunch which includes Ramen de Birria, Breakfast Tortas, and tacos. $14 cocktails are also available, including their signature Calavera (mezcal, pineapple, lime, hibiscus, and top with a skull smoker) and Muro Sour (whiskey, lemon, honey, epazote herb, and egg white or Aquafaba) from brother duo, Chef Juan Olivera and Beverage Director Manuel Olivera.

Pupatella: Largest DC-area authenticated Neapolitan pizzeria
Pupatella, an Arlington-based pizzeria tied for the most certified-authentic Neapolitan pizza locations in the country. Named a “Top 10 Best Pizza in the US” and an Eater DC’s “Essential Pizzeria” in Washington, Pupatella’s hand-made pies are made in a traditional 900+ degree wood-fire pizza oven manufactured by masters in Naples, Italy. With locations in Arlington, Leesburg (newly-opened), Springfield, Dupont Circle, Reston and Mosaic, Pupatella is continuing to grow in the DC/Maryland/Virginia market. 

Bammy’s: Black restaurants to support 
Head to Bammy’s (one of Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants, 2023 & MICHELIN Guide 2022 noted)  to support recent 2023 James Beard semifinalist, Chef Peter Prime, and enjoy some delicious Caribbean food on the SW Waterfront like Curries, Jerk Chicken, and tropical rum cocktails like Painkillers and Rum Punch.

Watching – Feb 2022

I really enjoy entertainment of all forms, books are my favorite but I also love television and movies. I watch an embarrassing amount of television sometimes, often while trying to find the bottom of my inbox. Here are some of my favorite series and movies I’ve watched lately.

Here are some hot upcoming releases and popular shows!!
Gunther’s Millions – Netflix
Freeridge – Netflix
The 1619 Project – Hulu
Alaska Daily – Hulu
Poker Face – Peacock
The traitors – Peacock
Trumbo – HBOmax
Spotlight – HBOmax
Shrinking – AppleTV
Dear Edward – AppleTV

Check back next week for more to do, read, eating and watch!!