June 5 – June 12, 2023
Good morning!!! This year feels like it is flying by, can’t believe that it is already June. I have been getting organized, figuring out how to better operate in my zone of genius (shout out “The Big Leap”). This month is going to be a busy one as I am manifesting going to Cannes Lions with some girlfriends, haven’t quite worked out the details but I am claiming and believing. I am also manifesting going to see Beyonce on July 12th in Philadelphia. I’m pretty immune to FOMO but once in a blue moon I am human and I definitely was feeling all the things about all of my friends frolicking in Paris and London without me. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVED it for them, the Black girl magic and joy was beautiful to watch and Blue Ivy is quite the little star. Seeing the confidence in her bloosom with each performance is lovely, and the haters can all kick rocks because couldn’t one of them get in front of a massive crowd like she did at 11 and kill it. All the “aunties and uncles” are so proud. I am in the process of getting my monies right for all the projects and things that I am working on so more details on that soon. We’ve also been dropping some new features over on DCFunemployment so make sure to check that out if you haven’t cause there a lot of good folks on there with interesting stories! There’s so much I want to do and I’m so excited to see what’s going to happen next. My current mantra is “Show Me How Good It Can Get” and allowing the universe to open for me. What’s meant for me is coming for me if I will just get out of my own way and allow it. Lastly I’m super excited that it’s PRIDE MONTH!!!! The parade is coming up next weekend and it’s going to be epic as always.
Doing
Declan McKenna – The Big Return Oracle Sisters
What: An entire generation has been born into a world where there seem to be multiple realities: social media, fake news, post-truth. But another reason for this alienation comes from the helplessness felt being born into a mess they did not create. The unshakeable confidence and boldness of Declan’s voice and the stories he tells allows these songs to truly land; setting the tone for a world-building album, and this new world builds just as the world we know ends. His expansive, experimental structures and loss of inhibitions build more than just a world but the entire sky and all the stars within it. These tracks and their characters are in constant conversation, they are subtly self-referencing, mature, complex and at times life-affirming but always unafraid to laugh… and Declan Mckenna is laughing hysterically as he pushes the big red button.
Where: The Anthem 901 Wharf St SW Washington, DC, 20024
When: Jun 5, 2023 | Doors : 6:30pm / Show : 8pm
Tickets: https://www.ticketmaster.com/declan-mckenna-the-big-return-washington-district-of-columbia-06-05-2023/event/15005E67CD293993?A
Profs & Pints DC: Lost in the Middle East
What: Profs and Pints DC presents: “Lost in the Middle East,” an examination of where the U.S. approach to that region went wrong, with Steven Simon, high-level foreign policy advisor under Presidents Obama and Clinton, Robert E. Wilhelm Fellow in International Affairs at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and author of Grand Delusion: The Rise and Fall of American Ambition in the Middle East.
Where: 801 E Street, NW Washington, DC 20004
When: Jun 5, 2023 | 6pm – 8:30pm
Tickets: https://profsandpints.ticketleap.com/lost/dates/Jun-05-2023_at_0600PM
Adams Morgan Movie Nights 2023
What: Voted as one of the best outdoor movie series in DC by readers of the Washington City Paper, Adams Morgan Movie Nights is a can’t-miss event! Thanks to continued community support, we are showing an extra movie this year over the course of 6 weeks!
Where: 2201 18th St NW Washington, DC 20009
When: Jun 6, 2023 | 8pm – 11pm
Tickets: FREE https://admodc.org/event/movie-nights-movie-tbh/
Behind the Canvas: The Defining Day with Artist-in-Residence Peter Waddell and Tom Long
What: On the 79th anniversary of D-Day, join Artist-in-Residence Peter Waddell and Professor Tom Long (George Washington University and Director of The Albert H Small Normandy Institute and former U.S. Navy Lieutenant) to hear about the battle that saved civilization. View a close-up of a magnum opus entitled, “The Defining Day” commissioned by Albert Small. Through Peter’s meticulously detailed images in this painting, see the full scope of the invasion of the Normandy beaches at one moment.
Where: 1644 31st Street, NW | Washington, DC 20007
When: Jun 6, 2023 | 6pm – 7pm
Tickets: https://12200.blackbaudhosting.com/12200/Guided-House-Tours-01Jun2023-3
Kitchen 101: Knife Skills
What: Learning how to properly yield a knife is key to cooking great meals safely. Do you want to learn how to chop vegetables like a pro or learn the proper uses for certain knives? Join Chef Wendi James in Hill Center’s kitchen as she teaches the essentials of knife skills for beginners! Learn the techniques of proper knife selection, care, basic cuts, and proper form. The chef will guide you through breaking down common vegetables, while you chop alongside or simply take notes. This participation class is limited to 10 people.
Where: 921 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20003
When: Jun 7, 2023 | 6pm – 7:30pm
Tickets: https://www.hillcenterdc.org/event/kitchen-101-knife-skills-june-7/
The JoGo Project
What: Stomp your feet to the go-go beat of Washington Area Music Award-winning band The JoGo Project! This high-energy super group will have you dancing to the jazz-infused groove.
Where: 540 Penn St NE, Washington, DC 20002
When: Jun 7, 2023 | 7pm
Tickets: https://www.washingtonperformingarts.org/seasontickets/2022-23-season/the-jogo-project/?utm_source=pocket_reader
VISIONARY NOT REACTIONARY
What: Art is the best expression for democracy. It is the sharpest tool we have for transformational love and community, traits that underpin and drive the success of all democratic movements. It invites us to engage in many perspectives that challenge us to think more deeply and critically about what shapes and drives us, what compels us to action and how we can relate more compassionately to ourselves and others in times of social and political crises. These artists inspire us to consider the complexity and discomfort of our humanity and at the same time, our capacity to co-exist, collaborate, and imagine beyond what we can see and what we thought was possible. Their work inspires inclusivity in civic engagement, empowering justice, and democracy to flourish.
Where: The White-Meyer House 1624 Crescent Pl NW Washington, DC 20009
When: Jun 8, 2023 |6pm – 8pm
Tickets: https://culturefix.meridian.org/for-freedoms
CHURCHKEY PRESENTS… UNTOLD BREWING!
What: Founded in October 2017 by Matt Elder, with Mike Dyer joining in March 2021, Untold Brewing produces clean, high-quality ales and lagers in a breadth of styles that reflect the seasons, their coastal Massachusetts community, and their past. We can’t wait to pour Matt & Mike’s special line-up of beers at ChurchKey, a bar Mike used to frequent when he lived down the street!
Where: 1337 14th St NW Washington D.C., DC 20005
When: Jun 8, 2023 | 4pm
Tickets: https://www.facebook.com/events/1200137744015258
Embodied: New Works by Rose Jaffe
What: “Embodied” is about the connection we hold with our physical selves. The relationship with have with our bodies. One that can be complicated and fraught, and also one that can be nurturing, healing, and divine. This show is a celebration of love, acceptance, and freedom within our bodies. I hope to see you there!
Where: 1701 14th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20009
When: Jun 9, 2023 | 6pm
Tickets: FREE https://www.eventbrite.com/e/embodied-new-works-by-rose-jaffe-tickets-623872999937?utm_source=pocket_reader
Art
What: Would you buy an all-white painting? Would you think it was art? What if your friend spent more than your annual salary on said painting…would you say something? The Coil Project presents Yasmina Reza’s Tony Award-winning play about friendship, class, what counts as art, and the Kafka-esque nightmare of whose names are included on the wedding invitation.
Where: 3222 11th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20010
When: Jun 9, 2023
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/art-tickets-638988651257
DC PRIDE!!!
What: DC Capital Pride Parade and Festival will be kicking off at Logan & Dupont Circle but there’s also a ton of stuff to do all week. Make sure to head to the website to see all the events happening and I can’t wait to see everyone at the parade!!
Where: Logan & Dupont Circle Neighborhoods, Washington, DC
When: Saturday, June 10, 2023, 3:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Tickets: https://www.capitalpride.org/event/parade/
New Kitchens on The Block 9 – NKOTB 9
What: NKOTB IS BACK! The ninth edition of our signature food festival offers a onetime-only opportunity to savor signature dishes and drinks from 9 of DC’s most hyped new restaurants by the city’s buzziest, award-winningest chefs – before they open.
Where: 703 Edgewood Street Northeast Washington, DC 20017
When: Jun 10, 2023
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/new-kitchens-on-the-block-9-nkotb-9-tickets-621030598237?aff=mc1
Jazz in The Parks
What: The region’s most acclaimed jazz musicians are returning to the ever-popular Jazz in The Parks on the Great Lawn this summer – this year, with a fourth additional concert due to popular demand. Bring your neighbors and friends for the city’s favorite laid-back summer evenings – listed by Washingtonian magazine as one of the area’s top five outdoor spots to listen to live music just last year! Bring your own picnic, blanket and refreshments, and enjoy popular local food vendors and giveaways.
Where: 1010 Butternut Street Northwest Washington, DC 20012
When: Jun 10, 2023 | 5pm – 8pm
Tickets: FREE https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jazz-in-the-parks-corcoran-holt-with-farafina-kan-percussion-ensemble-tickets-605263638837
Healing Movement & Sound with Centering Joy Collective
What: We’ll spend the afternoon together flowing through a gentle breath and movement sequence, journaling, and relaxing with a sound bath. No yoga experience is needed, and we’ll offer different forms of each movement for all bodies. During the sound bath, we’ll use instruments like crystal sound bowls and chimes to create sounds and vibrations that will help you to relax, feel less stressed, and center yourself. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, and journal if you have one you’d like to use. Yoga mats will be available if you don’t have one. We suggest wearing comfortable clothing, such as sweatpants or leggings.
Where: 905 U Street Northwest Washington, DC 20001
When: Jun 11, 2023 | 2pm – 3:30pm
Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/healing-movement-sound-with-centering-joy-collective-tickets-634854897087
Profs & Pints DC: Understanding D.C.’s War Memorials
What: Profs and Pints DC presents: “Understanding D.C.’s War Memorials,” a guide to the backstories and deeper meanings of iconic sites on the National Mall, with Christopher Hamner, associate professor of history at George Mason University and author of Enduring Battle: American Soldiers in Three Wars, 1776-1945.
Where: 640 Rhode Island Ave NE Washington, DC 20002
When: Jun 11, 2023 | 7pm – 9pm
Tickets: https://profsandpints.ticketleap.com/warmemorials/dates/Jun-11-2023_at_0700PM
Tribeca Film Festival
What: If you are in NYC, check out the Tribeca Film Festival which will be covering Film, Television, Indie episodic series, Audio storytelling, Talks, Games, Immersive and Music.
Where: Tribeca NYC
When: June 7th to June 18th, 2023
Tickets: https://tribecafilm.com/festival
Reading
Author: Michael Walrond
Title: Searching for Agabus: Embracing Authenticity and Finding Your Way to You
Description: An overlooked background figure in the grand narrative of the apostle Paul, Agabus (Acts 21:10-14) bursts from the epistles with an audacious prophecy. In a world where everyone wants to be the main character, Agabus remains a minor one with powerful relevance for today. Gleaning from Agabus’s story, we can bravely be our authentic selves, honoring what God has assigned us to do, no matter how small or insignificant it seems.
Publisher: 1517 Media
Release Date: Jun 6, 2023
Author: Darrin Bell
Title: The Talk
Description: Darrin Bell was six years old when his mother told him he couldn’t have a realistic water gun. She said she feared for his safety, that police tend to think of little Black boys as older and less innocent than they really are. Through evocative illustrations and sharp humor, Bell examines how The Talk shaped intimate and public moments from childhood to adulthood. While coming of age in Los Angeles and finding a voice through cartooning Bell becomes painfully aware of being regarded as dangerous by white teachers, neighbors, and police officers and thus of his mortality. Drawing attention to the brutal murders of African Americans and showcasing revealing insights and cartoons along the way, he brings us up to the moment of reckoning when people took to the streets protesting the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. And now Bell must decide whether he and his own six-year-old son are ready to have The Talk.
Publisher: Macmillan Publishers
Release Date: Jun 6, 2023
Author: M. Shawn Copeland
Title: Enfleshing Freedom: Body, Race, and Being: Second edition
Description: The achievement of our humanity comes about only through immersion in concrete, visceral, embodied relational experience; yet for many human beings that achievement is stamped by the struggle against oppression in history, society, and religion.
Publisher: 1517 Media
Release Date: Jun 7, 2023
Author: S.A. Cosby
Title: All the Sinners Bleed
Description: All the Sinners Bleed tackles a school shooting in a small Virginia rural town. The shooter, a troubled young black man, targets only a single teacher before being shot as the sheriff tries to talk him into giving up. The sheriff, Titus Crowne, is the first black sheriff of the county.
Publisher: Macmillan Publishers
Release Date: Jun 6, 2023
Author: Nikki Grimes
Title: Garvey’s Choice: The Graphic Novel
Description: Garvey’s father has always wanted Garvey to be athletic, but Garvey is interested in astronomy, science fiction, reading—anything but sports. Feeling like a failure, he comforts himself with food. Garvey is kind, funny, smart, a loyal friend, and he is also overweight, teased by bullies, and lonely. When his only friend encourages him to join the school chorus, Garvey’s life changes. The chorus finds a new soloist in Garvey, and through chorus, Garvey finds a way to accept himself and a way to finally reach his distant father—by speaking the language of music instead of the language of sports.
Publisher: Boyds Mills Press
Release Date: Jun 6, 2023
Eating
Mr. Bake Sweets: Rainbow Pudding, Cookies, Cake Jars + Cupcake Happy Hour
Kareem “Mr. Bake” Queeman is kicking off Pride Month when Black Pride begins in DC on May 25th with Pride-themed treats. For pickup within Le Fantome food hall and local delivery, the James Beard Semifinalist will offer a “Prideful Banana Pudding” with colorful streaks and Pride sprinkles and Rainbow cookies. For nation-wide shipping and local purchase, Kareem is also offering his iconic rainbow cake jars. Stay tuned for additional information on a Pride Month cupcake happy hour and celebration of 10 years of Mr. Bake Sweets.
KNEAD Hospitality + Design: Pride Cocktails for The Trevor Project
The Largest LGBTQ+ company in the DC region will celebrate Pride at all of their full service restaurants with a special cocktail in honor of Pride Month. Their specialty cocktail, “Plus One” includes Tito’s Vodka, Chinola Passion Fruit, Aperol, Vanilla, Lime, Bubbles ($16) and will be available at all KNEAD locations (MI VIDA, Succotash, Mi Casa, Gatsby, The Grill, etc.). A portion of the proceeds will be donated to The Trevor Project.
SUMMIT Rooftop: Sip back and relax with unparalleled views of DC and Frosé & Palomas on Tap!
Enjoy Memorial Day Weekend with Conrad DC’s sweeping rooftop views of DC, Frosé, Palomas and more on tap, signature cocktails highlighting the flowers, herbs and garnishes from the rooftop garden and the “Partly Sunny” menu featuring dishes prepared in their solar oven. SUMMIT is open Thursday-Sunday. Reservations here.
Ghostburger: MDW Brunch, Beers, and Burgers!
Ghostburger will be open on Memorial Day (and throughout the weekend) for brunch on Monday to kick off summer with specials like their burger of the month, The Jalapeno Popper Burger (charred jalapeño, bacon pimento cheese) and new brunch specials. Bottomless mimosas, $4 off cocktail pitchers, and a wide selection of beers and cocktails will also be available.
Wilson Hardware: Cool off on Wilson Hardware’s rooftop w/ summer sips all weekend!
Spend the long weekend on the rooftop at Wilson Hardware to try their new summer cocktails. Whether you’re looking to heat things up with their Spicy Tangerine Margarita or cool things down with a Frozen Espresso Martini, their seasonal cocktails are perfect to sip on all summer long. They’ll also be hosting parties on Friday and Saturday night with a DJ from 9 p.m. – close.
Ruse: Kickoff Pride Month with a three-course drag brunch hosted by drag royalty, Tara Ashleigh Austin! (SUN, 6/4) – What better way to kick off the month than with drag brunch? Join Ruse in St. Michaels, MD, on Sunday, 6/4, for a three-course brunch and a full lineup of entertainment hosted by drag royalty, Tara Ashleigh Austin! Tickets for the 10:30 a.m. slot are still available and can be purchased here. Alcohol is not included in the ticket price, but drink specials will be available a la carte.
Gravitas x Somylyay x Smithsonian Associates: Elite Sommelier Erik Segelbaum & Chef Matt Baker come together for Summer wine magic (MON, 6/5 & TUES, 6/6) – Celebrate the start of summer with an enchanting evening at MICHELIN-starred Gravitas by Chef Matt Baker- enjoy a four-course menu plus canapes specially designed for the event showcases the summer bounty of the Chesapeake Bay watershed with wine pairings by Smithsonian Associates’ favorite sommelier Erik Segelbaum, who leads the popular Wine Adventures series- with a focus on hidden gems. Tickets can be purchased here, menu found here.
Watching
FUBAR
Genre: Comedy
Release Date: May 25, 2023
Where to Stream: Netflix
Turn of the Tide
Genre: Drama
Release Date: May 26, 2023
Where to Stream: Netflix
The Clearing
Genre: Drama
Release Date: May 24, 2023
Where to Stream: Hulu
American Born Chinese
Genre: Action Comedy
Release Date: May 24, 2023
Where to Stream: Disney+
Thor: Love and Thunder
Genre: Action
Release Date: Jul 8, 2022
Where to Stream: Disney+
Rainn Wilson and the Geography of Bliss
Genre: Travel Genre
Release Date: May 18, 2023
Where to Stream: Peacock
Praise This
Genre: Comedy
Release Date: Apr 7, 2023
Where to Stream: Peacock
Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai
Genre: Comedy
Release Date: May 23, 2023
Where to Stream: HBO Max
King Richard
Genre: True story
Release date: Nov 19, 2022
Where to Stream: HBO Max
Big George Foreman
Genre: True story
Release date: Apr 28, 2023
Where to Stream: AppleTV
What’s love got to do with it?
Genre: British Comedy
Release date: May 5, 2023
Where to Stream: AppleTV
