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Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Yep, another intern story. Drunkest D.C. Intern Ever Loses Shoe While Stalking Paul Ryan http://gawker.com/drunkest-d-c-intern-ever-loses-shoe-while-stalking-pau-977683564
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East Coast West Coast Perv-Off
Conan O’Brien does it again. This time he compares both mayor candidate Anthony Weiner and San Diego Bob Filner in an old Perv-Off battle. Who wins?
You think Anthony Weiner has a monopoly on horny politicos? San Diego mayor Bob Filner can take on all comers.
My Father’s Roses
One of my childhood memories concerned my father’s rose bushes. My father spent most of his early life on the family farm and when he moved to town, I think roses were his way to stay connected to the earth and nature. Though, I firmly believe that growing corn and wheat in our yard would have been easier than the temperamental rose bush.
He had at least fifty, and he took great care of them so that they produced the most beautiful roses in the neighborhood, if not the town. During this period I was the only child in our household, and he enlisted my help in their care. Now, as an adult, I have come to realize how much I learned about life in the maintenance and care of the rose bush.
One of these lessons I learned is that creating beauty can be downright messy! After years of experimenting, he insisted on only using real cow manure for fertilizer. You read that right: real cow manure! This entailed first collecting the cow piles from the farm pastures, loading them on a truck, driving them to town, and then spreading them ever so carefully around the base of each bush. In the beginning, I was embarrassed and afraid someone would find out that I was associated with this whole process; yet, as I got older, I grew to embrace and think differently about the “rose bush” journey to the farm. It became more of a curious experience than an unwanted chore.
We would often stay a little longer and walk the pastures and look to the bottom of the very cold and clear creeks and the small biological worlds within worlds. The farm also taught me to listen. When I used to spend my summers there as a small child, I was too little and busy playing with my cousins to really hear all the most interesting sounds nature and a working farm offered. I thought I knew how to listen until I focused and respected my surroundings. Later I used this same skill of focus and respect to listen to people. I learned an amazing lesson: you can learn so much if only you really listen.
Every season we had to prune the branches to make room for greater growth and possibilities even though the bushes put up a fight, as evidenced by my many cuts from their thorns. This was often therapeutic and rewarding when the new growth appeared around each cutting. But in the beginning, it took an act of faith to trust that it would happen. I would ask my father for proof and he would just say that by losing something, we would have a greater chance to get something new.
The rose bush seems very independent but it is not one to be left alone to take care of itself: it needed others as we do. My father and I had to do weekly weeding, check for fungus and Japanese beetles, and apply the right amount of water. Although each bush received the same amount of care and love, some fared better than others. It was not unusual for us to replace a few each year while others lasted it seemed forever. Friends are often the same way but there is only so much we know and the rest we come to accept.
Have you ever looked carefully at the rose flower? It is one of the most beautiful creations on earth. It comes in a variety of colors and sizes and the petals form a matrix of unique designs. Early in the morning, I would often witness my father study each bush and in his face I could see him acknowledge that it was worth the efforts. It was like he had a unique relationship with each one.
Later, when my father got older and after my mother died, he couldn’t take care of his creations as well as before and the weeds took over where there was once manure and beauty. The relationship of the rose and my father was quite apparent: where there is interdependence based on love and respect there is a larger possibility of a greater life and beauty.
Although my father and his rose bushes are but a memory, the life lessons I have learned are still with me. The phrase “take time to smell the roses” means a great deal more to me than enjoy life more. It means that we have so much to learn from everything outside and inside of us and we spend so little time seeing the invitations. To that end, I believe that I will travel to Frederick this weekend and place a few roses on my parents’ grave. He would like that and so will I.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Newport Folk Festival 2013 – Day 1
JP McPherson
McPherson, a native of the East Coast has spent the last 3 years refining his retro sound in Portland Oregon. He took the stage at Newport and was almost unrecognizable to those who got used to his slicked back hair cut and 60’s hill-billy rocker style. In a laid back set of khakis and a polo, JD and his band rolled out an impressive set during a light misting. Hitting on all the favorites from their collection, they woke up the Newport faithful and got folks to their feet to start the day.
Phosphorescent
Phosphorescent
Touring on the success of their recent album, “Muchacho”, Matthew Houck and Phosphorescent rocked the quad stage right as the rain began to pour down on Fort Adams. The band show signs of brilliance throughout their performance followed by small lulls and gaps in performance. The upside of the band and their sound come during extended jam sessions where their piano player and the rhythm section are allowed freedom to play. The gaps, at least during this set, came clearly from Houck and his vocal range. With the band reaching to higher octaves and making key changes on the regular, the architect of their sound got lost in the shuffle.
John McCauley
The informally dubbed “Mayor of Newport,” John McCauley’s set on Friday was the most impressive of the day. Playing under a torrential downpour in the quad tent, it was just McCauley and his guitar. Pulling from a range of country and folk classics, the Deer Tick frontman captivated the crowd with his stage presence and plucking. Though Deer Tick’s hometown of Providence is a short car ride away, McCauley has made the Newport Folk Festival his own. He was joined by two very special guests – his girlfriend – Vanessa Carlton and his Mom. Carlton jumped onstage to play a duet from Deer Tick’s new album “Negativity” ** LINK TO SONGS WE LISTEN TO ** . Mrs. McCauley’s appearance was a lot more spontaneous. While picking along to the Deer Tick jam Baltimore Blues No. 1, John realized the riff he was playing was similar to the Jimmy Buffet track Margaritaville. He stopped dead in his tracks and invited his Mom, a devote Buffethead, onstage to run through the beach jam. The moment was one of those that could only come about at a small festival like Newport. The Mayor brought his Mom onstage (replete with a green “Mama Deer Tick” shirt) to duet with him and finish by thanking Newport for “loving and supporting my son and Deer Tick!”
Caption Tuesday! Who said bi-partisanship is dead in congress? Give this photo of our congressional leaders doing what they do best a caption! Best caption will win screening tickets to next weeks movie of We're the Millers.
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Monday, July 29, 2013
Great Odin's beard! Police arrested a woman in the green paint vandalism case after National Cathedral became the second victim. http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Green-Paint-Found-on-Statue-Outside-Smithsonian-Castle-217420561.html?_osource=SocialFlowFB_DCBrand
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This is real: Congressional Black Caucus recommends Sheila Jackson Lee for Homeland Security Secretary. http://blog.chron.com/txpotomac/2013/07/congressional-black-caucus-recommends-sheila-jackson-lee-for-homeland-security-secretary/
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5 Reasons To Attend our Summer Bash This Thursday!
All week you’ve probably been like this:
Well Here’s the good news! This Thursday starts the annual DC tradition we call August Recess!
Here are 5 reasons why you need to come celebrate our Summer Bash at 201 Bar (from 7pm+ til close) with us! Remember: It’s free to attend!
#1 – We’ll have a DJ there.
#2 – We’ll also have a photo booth!
#3 – Whistle Pig Whiskey Tasting Table.
#4 – Movie swag and tickets will be given away (Thanks Allied Marketing!)
#5 – Best Drink Specials in Town
- $5 Cointreau Rickey and Cointreaupolitan
- $5 Stella, Hoegaarden and Leffe Blonde
- $4 House Wine
- $4 Craft Bourbons
- $5 Goose Island Drafts
A proper send off so you can relax while your boss is away for the next month!
So RSVP today!
Thank you again to our sponsors: Fireside 21 and Cointreau!
Not like you didn't need them anyways, but here are 5 reasons to come celebrate the annual tradition we call August Recess! Reason #2 - We'll have a photo booth! http://www.clotureclub.com/2013/07/5-reasons-to-attend-our-summer-bash/
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Our weekly newsletter just went out! there are quite a few events. Ladies DC, drinks with Alonzo morning and our Summer Bash party this Thursday at The 201 Bar! Don't forget to check out the Top Dog challenge by Fireside21. http://eepurl.com/C0adz
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Sunday, July 28, 2013
First stop, pick up some wine! $1100 Cupcake, no thanks!
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Friday, July 26, 2013
Speaking of events, don't forget to RSVP to our Summer Bash next Thursday. The official kick off for August Recess. We'll have Drink specials, A PHOTO BOOTH, tasting table and more! Thanks to our sponsors Cointreau and Fireside21. RSVP --> https://www.facebook.com/events/490654704342815/
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Last chance to get tickets to tomorrow's wine tour! There's still a few seats left. We're meeting at Cap South Metro station at 11 and we'll be back at 4. Light snacks and water will be included. http://vawinebustour.eventbrite.com/
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Thursday, July 25, 2013
10 More DC Websites You Should Know About But Don’t
Last year we wrote an article about 10 DC websites you should know about but don’t. Here’s an update with additional local DC websites that should be added to your bookmark list!
Urban Turf
A property listing website that has a lot of house porn. This website is good for those in the industry or in the market.
Website http://dc.urbanturf.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/UrbanTurf_DC
Greater Greater Washington
As their slogan says, The Washington DC area is great. But it could be greater. This website is devoted to improving the vitality of DC. This website tracks development and historical facts. Great website for DC buffs.
Website http://greatergreaterwashington.org/
Twitter http://twitter.com/ggwash
Beyond Dc
BeyondDC’s David Malouff by day is a professional transportation planner for the Arlington County so he devoted a website to the “urbanism” and transportation of DC.
Website http://beyonddc.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/beyonddc
National Museum of American History Blog
“O Say Can You See?” is a blog produced by the National Museum of American History. A unique website that takes readers behind the scenes of the museum and shares insights and information you probably wouldn’t pickup at their exhibits.
Website http://blog.americanhistory.si.edu/osaycanyousee/
Twitter http://twitter.com/amhistorymuseum
DC Beer
DCBeer.com, all things dc and beer resource and coverage. This website covers and promotes DC’s craft beer culture and events. If you like beer, and we know you do, then check out this website. They have a great expose on the inside story of local beers being served at Naitonals games now.
Website http://www.dcbeer.com/
Twitter http://twitter.com/dcbeer
We Love DC
This “band” of writers love DC. WLD is a news and lifestyle blog covering all things news, sports, food, music and politics. Kinda like us!
Website http://www.welovedc.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/welovedc
The Hill Is Home
A team of volunteers from Capitol Hill who seek to provide current and relevant stories to the residents.
Website http://www.thehillishome.com/
Twitter http://twitter.com/thehillishome
DC Blogs
Our friends at DCBlogs.com run a one stop shop for almost every DC blog, website or news resources. An impressive list at that. Every day he puts up interesting photos and stories he finds. Well worth a bookmark.
Website http://dcblogs.com/
Twitter https://twitter.com/dcblogs
Free in DC
“Free in DC is an arts, culture, and consciousness resource dedicated to all the cool, free, low-cost things to do in Washington, DC”. Most events listed on this website are free, donation based or less than $10. A great resource for the outgoing person.
Website http://freeindc.blogspot.com/
Twitter http://www.twitter.com/FreeinDCBlog
In The Capital
A great website who is “reinventing” local news through community driven content. And check out their DCFest event next month!
Website http://inthecapital.streetwise.co/
Twitter http://twitter.com/inthecapital
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Belgium in DC: A Review of B Too
The chef and owner of Belga Café in SE, Bart Vandaele, has just added another epic Belgian restaurant and beer spot to the DC map. B Too, which is located on 14th Street near Logan Circle, was an experience I won’t soon forget…in fact, it’s an experience I plan on repeating over and over again.
The Upstairs, Bar, and Downstairs. Photos Courtesy of BToo.com
Atmosphere and Service: B Too’s atmosphere differs depending on which part of the restaurant you venture to. The upstairs is brightly lit and mixes modern fixtures with rustic wall décor. The main bar, also located on the upper level, sits about 25 comfortably and is a great place to enjoy a Belgian craft beer and a bite to eat. We sat in the downstairs area of the restaurant for dinner, which was slightly dimmer and very cozy. It’s difficult to describe the downstairs design…it’s rustic, with a mix of wood and brick walls, wood floors, and very comfortable leather seats. Imagine farm house meets modern lounge, it’s a very cool concept!
The service, like that at Vandaele’s Belga Café, is top notch. The restaurant staff is extremely knowledgeable about both the beer and food, and is happy to assist you in pairing an amazing Belgian beer with whatever you order. In addition to beer knowledge, B Too also boasts an impressive wine selection with a designated sommelier.
Selection: In 2009 Vandaele was actually knighted by the “Knighthood of the Brewers’ Mashstaff Knighthood” in Belgium, under the order of Leopold II. This rare honor is bestowed upon a very select few who excel in the promotion of Belgian beers, and Vandaele currently serves as the brand ambassador for Hoegaarden, Leffe Blond, Leffe Bruin, and Stella Artois beers. It is no surprise that B Too has undoubtedly the BEST Belgian Beer selection in Washington D.C. While there are only 12 tap selections at B Too, the all-Belgian bottle list boasts 107 different craft, abbey, Lambic, brut, and Trappist beers. There were beers on the menu that I had never even heard of, including three gluten-free ales from Belgian breweries. Something I was very surprised to see. There beer menu also contains a rotating selection of specials which change depending on availability and season. If you like Belgian beers, I challenge you to find a better selection in DC!
Value: I found both the food and the beer at B Too to be very reasonably priced, especially since you’d be hard up to find many of the beers on B Too’s menu at any area specialty store. The food…I’ll just say for now that it’s one of those experiences where everything just blows your taste buds away, a definite wow factor. I plan on dragging DC’s Food Czar Shawn Keeley there on my next visit, in order to write a review that does B Too’s food the justice it deserves.
Troubadour Magma and Sterkens White Ale: A Couple of the Beers I Enjoyed at B Too
Overall: My first experience at B Too was incredible, and I recommend this place to any beer lover. If you haven’t been exposed to the world of Belgian beers yet, go to B Too, immediately. You will not be disappointed. The staff is friendly, the atmosphere is great, and the selection is unmatched.
Until next time, stay thirsty DC.
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D.C. United to get a new stadium at Buzzard Point in SW water front. http://www.dcunited.com/news/2013/07/plans-for-world-class-soccer-stadium-announced
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There are still spots open! Join fellow wine lovers this Saturday for a trip to a few northern Virginia wineries. We are suppose to have great weather this weekend! http://vawinebustour.eventbrite.com/
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Wednesday, July 24, 2013
This just in, Lauren will be with Nick Frost and Simon Pegg (of Shaun of the Dead) next week for a exclusive interview for their new movie The World's End. If you were at a table with them, what would you ask?
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