Sponsored

Adams Morgan Apple Festival takes place Saturday, October 18th with heirloom apple tasting & apple pie baking contest

By Sponsor
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The 12th Annual Adams Morgan Apple Pie Baking Contest and the 17th Annual Licking Creek Bend Farm Heirloom Apple Tasting return to Adams Morgan on Saturday, October 18, 2025. This beloved fall tradition takes place on the front steps of The LINE DC Hotel and directly across from the Adams Morgan Farmers’ Market in Unity Park (Euclid & Champlain Streets NW).

Each year, the festival draws hundreds of neighbors and visitors to celebrate heirloom apples, the art of baking the perfect pie, and the spirit of community in one of DC’s most iconic neighborhoods. This year’s festivities will be emceed by storyteller and host Marya Kazmi of Brown Girl Interrupting, who brings her signature blend of humor, warmth, and community spirit to the stage

Festival Highlights:

  • Heirloom Apple Tasting presented by Licking Creek Bend Farm, featuring unique apple varieties rarely found in grocery stores.
  • Apple Pie Baking Contest, where local residents compete for bragging rights as Adams Morgan’s “Best Apple Pie.” Bakers will be judged across five categories: appearance, filling, crust, overall, and People’s Choice.
  • Pie Sales for a Cause: Contestants bake three pies: one for the judges and two for sale by the slice ($6 each). All proceeds benefit Sitar Arts Center, a neighborhood nonprofit providing transformative arts education and opportunities for young people.
  • Community Vibe: Local businesses will join the celebration with fall-themed specials throughout the neighborhood.

The apple pie contest will be judged by a collection of local personalities:

  • Alex Schroeder, @devourdc
  • Eun Yang, NBC4 Anchor
  • Tom Sherwood, Local journalist at Washington City Paper and WAMU Politics Hour
  • Alexis Grea, Local Pastry Chef
  • Phil Mendelson, Chairman, DC Council
  • Peter Wood, ANC1C
  • Maureen L. Dwyer, Executive Director of Sitar Arts Center

Event Schedule:

  • 8:30 AM – Adams Morgan Farmers’ Market opens
  • 10:00 AM – Heirloom apple tasting begins
  • 11:00 AM – Pie slices available for purchase (first-come, first-serve and they sell out fast!)
  • 11:30 AM – Apple Pie Contest judging
  • 2:30 PM – Winners announced

The Apple Festival is more than a celebration of the season, it’s a fundraiser and a community-builder that keeps our neighborhood vibrant and safe. Last year’s event raised critical funds for local nonprofits, and 2025 continues that tradition with all proceeds supporting the Sitar Arts Center.

For more details, visit AdMoAppleFestival.com. Follow the Adams Morgan Partnership BID on Facebook, Instagram, and X for neighborhood updates, invitations to special events, and more!

About the Adams Morgan Partnership BID

The Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District is a nonprofit organization focused on enhancing the quality of life for businesses, commercial property owners, residents, visitors, and employees in the District of Columbia’s most vibrant and eclectic neighborhood. The Partnership provides daily street cleaning, fun neighborhood events, and creative marketing and economic development initiatives. Adams Morgan is world-renowned for its fantastic restaurants and nightlife, colorful retail stores and historic, tree-lined residential streets. The American Planning Association named Adams Morgan one of the top 10 neighborhoods in America.

About Sitar Arts Center

Founded in 2000, Sitar Arts Center advances equitable access to high quality education and workforce development in the visual, performing, and digital arts. Sitar Arts Center engages DC youth, from early childhood to young adulthood, in building a creative

Real Estate Fresh Finds for Oct 8, 2025

By Marcus Correll

This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

1828 North Capitol St

Featured Property of the Week: 1828 North Capitol St NW

“This large and elegant rowhome located in historic Bloomingdale was completely renovated in 2021 with an eye for details. The home is over 2,000 sq. ft of living space on 3 levels. The open floor plan on the main level includes hardwood floors throughout, high ceilings, a half bathroom, and custom millwork. The gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, quartz countertops, Restoration Hardware fixtures and high-quality appliances (including a large 36” Gas American Range) is ready for the next dinner party. The top floor has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a large laundry closet with an Electrolux washer and dryer. In the primary bedroom, you will find vaulted ceilings and tons of storage! Check out the woodwork on the ceiling in the tower in the primary bedroom. The primary bathroom includes a double vanity and a walk-in shower. The top floor hallway bathroom is designed as if it’s ready for the next cocktail party. It’s the house’s little black dress. The lower level includes two egresses, a living space, a kitchen, 2nd laundry closet, 2 bedrooms, and one full bath. The kitchen includes a fridge, sink, and built-in microwave. The private back patio is a cozy retreat to end the day with a glass of wine or host a small dinner party. Within a matter of blocks from restaurants and cafes such as The Red Hen, Big Bear Cafe, and The Pub & The People.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is a 5BR/5.5BA Federal detached home in Georgetown with 5,600+ total sqft across 4 levels wa built in 1811 and features 6 real fireplaces, parking for up to 3 cars, a double parlor, a library/office, and was even the former residence of Jacqueline & John F. Kennedy where “this house, politics, finance, and the social life of early Washington intertwined” —all for $7.5M.
  • “This is it… an extraordinary opportunity and value—priced approximately 10.5% below comparable homes recently sold on the revered Monroe Street [in Brookland]. Welcome to this 5-bed, 3.5-bath Monroe Street residence, where classic charm meets modern convenience, with room to add your own updates to this well-maintained home.”
  • “Welcome home to 249 Gallatin — where modern elegance meets life’s possibilities. Step into this striking 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath [Petworth] residence that has been completely reimagined and renovated with today’s modern lifestyle in mind. From the moment you step inside, be prepared to be wowed!”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is basically just a brick shell that formerly contained 4BR/4BA in Chevy Chase, DC so “don’t miss this chance to design and build in a neighborhood where custom homes are in high demand and property values remain strong.”
Click Here

Meet with a therapist at North Star Psychological Services in Dupont

By Prince Of Petworth

Need a Safe place to Talk?

Have you been thinking about starting therapy for the first time? Or are you feeling like it’s time to get back into therapy? Our therapists meet you where you are and engage at any level of intensity you are seeking.

What Brings People to Therapy?

Lately, the most common reasons for seeking therapy are:

  • Workplace Stress
  • Dating Challenges
  • Life Transitions
  • Relationship Issues
  • Imposter Syndrome
  • Identity Development
  • Political Distress

Often these situations are time-limited and require extra help and guidance to navigate. At other times, these situations can cause ongoing distress and even impact your mood, energy and outlook. Whether your situation is of a limited, transient nature or is more long-term, having an experienced professional guiding you will make the process less distressing and more efficient.

How It Works

When you reach out, you will speak directly with one of our founders who will match you with the therapist that will be the best fit for your needs, personality and goals. Together you will decide whether to meet virtually, in-person or hybrid. Then you will create a plan that feels clear and has measurable goals. Most people start with weekly sessions, and as you make progress, you and your therapist can adjust the pace.

How Can Therapy Help?

It is exciting to think of all the possible ways psychotherapy can benefit you (and everyone)! Most people focus on a few short-term goals at a time, which build toward bigger, long-term changes. Some examples of therapy outcomes are mood stabilization; developing coping skills and healthier behaviors; gaining self-understanding and confidence; enhancing relationships and social functioning; or cultivating self-acceptance and compassion.

What Makes Us Stand Out!

We are a small, boutique, practice right on Dupont circle. Each of our clinicians are passionate about different areas of the human experience and mental wellness. Some of those areas include

  • Trauma and Chronic Abuse
  • Life Transitions and Grief Work
  • Senior and Women’s Issues
  • Eating Disorders
  • Psychotic Disorders

Our practice offers therapy through a variety of different modalities such as trauma-sensitive yoga and EMDR, ACT, IFS, CBT, and DBT.

Connect With Us!

Call Us At 202.579.9299 or Leave Us A Message!

Instagram – @northstarpsychdc

Work is evolving. Benefits should evolve, too.

By Shipt

Shoppers and drivers with Shipt love having the flexibility to set their own schedules. In fact, more than 90 percent prefer picking up work when and where it makes sense over a set schedule and hours. Learn how a new portable benefits model allows workers to choose benefits that are right for them, without compromising the flexibility they need.

Learn More

DC open houses list for this weekend: Oct 3, 2025

By Marcus Correll

This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

Now that we’re officially in October, it’s finally starting to feel like Fall, including the real estate market with 420+ DC Open Houses scheduled this weekend. While the mood in the District has shifted drastically due to the shutdown, this also provides an interesting opportunity for homebuyers to have less competition while the uncertainty looms. If you’re on your homebuying journey and also feel secure in your jobs, this might be your weekend. Check out our favorite opens below to see the full DC Open House list, click here.

  • 2261 12th St NW — $1,075,000 — U Street Corridor
    Open Sun. 12-3PM — Denny Horner & Leyla Phelan
    “Fantastic 3-Bedroom Rowhome in the Heart of the U Street Corridor. Welcome to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath rowhome that perfectly blends historic charm with modern comfort in one of DC’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Inside, you’ll find beautiful hardwood floors, abundant natural light from two skylights, and a thoughtful layout designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The separate dining room, anchored by a double-sided gas fireplace, creates an inviting atmosphere for gatherings. The eat-in kitchen is perfect for whipping up a quick meal or a full-on Thanksgiving Dinner! Step outside to enjoy a private deck OR balcony – either ideal for relaxing or hosting friends – and the convenience of off-street parking completes this city home.”
  • 1528 Gales St NE — $775,000 — H Street Corridor
    Open Sat. 11AM-1PM — Tracey Williams Barnett
    “Freshly painted, move-in ready, and poised to sell, this three-level, 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath, 2,016 SF end-unit row home pairs everyday function with elevated finishes. A marble-wrapped chef’s kitchen anchors the main level—generous prep space, sleek cabinetry, and a natural gathering hub—while spa-style marble bathrooms on the upper levels deliver boutique-hotel comfort at home.”
  • 908 Longfellow St NW — $750,000 — Brightwood Park
    Open Sat. 11AM-1PM — Monique Van Blaricom
    “Fully renovated in 2013, this detached 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom Brightwood Park home spans more than 2,000 finished square feet. The main level features hardwood floors and a comfortable open concept living, providing perfect flow for living and entertaining.”
  • 3825 Commodore Joshua Barney Dr NE — $560,000 — Fort Lincoln
    Open Sat. 1-3PM — Amanda Steinmuller
    BACK ON THE MARKET WITH $15k PRICE IMPROVEMENT: “This townhome has been maintained and cared for by the original owner. The open floor plan is great for living and entertaining, while original hardwood flooring sets the perfect tone throughout.”
  • 3901 Cathedral Ave NW #419 — $215,000 — Observatory Circle
    Open Sat. 2-4PM — Kerri Murphy
    “This light-filled home offers a well-thought-out living space, including a generous living room with a charming dining area, parquet wood floors, and an updated kitchen featuring modern cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and Corian countertops.”
  • 1617 Otis St NE — $948,000 — Brookland
    Open Sun. 12-2PM — Melanie Friedson
    $10k PRICE IMPROVEMENT: “Beautiful Brookland semi-detached row home, totally renovated including a fantastic rear addition in 2021. It’s so bright and light, with three exposures! The main level is ideally laid out with an open floor plan and hardwood floors.”
  • 1620 S St NW — $3,349,900 — Dupont
    Open Sat. & Sun. 2-4PM — David Bediz
    “Spanning 4,429 square feet across four spacious levels, this one-of-a-kind residence blends timeless architectural charm with thoughtfully integrated modern amenities.​ The home offers a 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom layout including a LEGAL 2BR | 2BA rental unit, ideal for guests, multigenerational living, or income-producing potential.”
  • 4912 Meade St NE — $569,000 — Deanwood
    Open Sat. 3:30-5:30PM — Denise Greene
    “Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3 full-bath, fully renovated home in the heart of Deanwood, offering nearly 1,800 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space. This home combines modern upgrades with neighborhood charm, making it truly move-in ready.”
Click Here

Legal Insider: Defending federal employees in proposed disciplinary process

By John V. Berry

This is a sponsored column by attorneys John Berry and Kimberly Berry of Berry & Berry, PLLC, an employment and labor law firm located in Northern Virginia that specializes in federal employee, security clearance, retirement and private sector employee matters.

We defend federal employees facing discipline. Federal employees serve the public with dedication, but like any workforce, they may face proposed disciplinary actions, ranging from demotions to removals. These actions are stressful and career-threatening, but federal law and regulations provide employees with meaningful rights and avenues to respond. As lawyers representing federal employees, it is important to understand the federal employee disciplinary process.

The disciplinary process, for most federal employees, is currently on hold during the Government Shutdown, but will resume as soon as federal employees are permitted to return to work.

Understanding the Notice of Proposed Discipline

When an agency intends to discipline most federal employees, it must first issue a written Notice of Proposed Discipline (e.g. Notice of Proposed Removal). This document outlines the charges, specifications, and the proposed penalty. Importantly, this is not the final decision. It is just a proposed action. At this stage, the employee (presuming they are not probationary or in a unique civil service category) generally has the right to respond both orally and in writing.

What to Consider in Reviewing the Proposal?

When reviewing the Proposed Discipline, it is important to look for a few things in evaluating it, including:

  • Specificity of Charges: Does the notice clearly identify the alleged misconduct?
  • Evidence Cited: Is the proposed action supported by reliable documentation or testimony?
  • Penalty Proposed: Does the penalty align with the agency’s own disciplinary table and other similar cases?

The Employee’s Right to Respond

Federal employees generally have the right to respond, usually within 7 to 30 days depending on the severity of the proposed action and the agency involved. This is a critical window to:

  • Request and Review the Evidence – Request the information upon which the notice is based.
  • Refute Allegations – Challenge inaccuracies or incomplete facts in the notice.
  • Provide Mitigation – Explain extenuating circumstances, work history, or personal factors that weigh against severe discipline.
  • Highlight Other Issues – Agencies must follow law and regulations. Many disciplinary cases also involve discrimination and/or whistleblower retaliation which is relevant to a federal employee’s defense.

Often, agencies fail to consider mitigating factors such as years of good service, lack of prior discipline, or whether progressive discipline was properly applied at the proposal stage. These arguments can substantially reduce or eliminate penalties in the final decision.

The Deciding Official’s Role

A deciding official, separate from the proposing official, will hear the employee’s response and issue the final decision. The deciding official is required to give meaningful consideration to the employee’s defense. Ensuring that the response is written carefully, supported by evidence, and persuasive is crucial. It is also important for a federal employment attorney to prepare a federal employee for the oral response.

Appealing a Final Decision

If the agency issues an adverse action (such as removal, suspension over 14 days, or demotion), the employee may have the right to appeal. Options include:

Each forum has strict deadline, often as short as 30 days, so employees should seek a federal employment lawyer immediately after receiving the final decision.

Why Legal Representation is Important

Defending against proposed discipline is not just about challenging allegations. It requires legal representation, for such things as:

  • Reviewing agency evidence and uncovering weaknesses.
  • Gathering witness statements and supporting documents.
  • Framing mitigation in a way that resonates with deciding officials.
  • Preparing for potential appeals to MSPB or arbitration.

An experienced federal employment attorney can significantly improve outcomes, whether by securing withdrawal of the proposal, negotiating a lesser penalty, or successfully overturning an adverse decision on appeal.

Conclusion

Federal employees facing proposed disciplinary actions should remember: the notice is not a final decision. With well-prepared responses and counsel, many employees successfully defend their careers. The process is complex, but due process protections exist for a reason. Federal employees should have a federal employment lawyer retained to assist them in this process.

Our law firm represents and advises federal employees in various employment law matters. If you need legal assistance regarding a federal employment matter, please contact our office at (703) 668-0070 or at www.berrylegal.com to schedule a consultation.

Real Estate Fresh Finds for Oct 1, 2025

By Marcus Correll

This article is sponsored by RLAH @properties.

Featured Property of the Week: 4912 Meade St NE

4912 Meade Street Ne

“Welcome to this beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 3 full-bath, fully renovated home in the heart of Deanwood, offering nearly 1,800 sq ft of thoughtfully designed living space. This home combines modern upgrades with neighborhood charm, making it truly move-in ready. Step inside to an inviting, open-concept layout that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas—perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The gourmet kitchen features upgraded all-wood cabinetry, ceramic tile backsplash, and top-of-the-line LG appliances, complemented by custom hardwood flooring throughout. A spacious 12×12 sunroom and deck extend the living space outdoors. The home is equipped with numerous upgrades for comfort and peace of mind, including a new roof, HVAC system, water heater, plumbing and electrical systems, waterproofing with a sump pump, and a new fence. Security features include an alarm and camera system. The fully finished basement adds versatile square footage, featuring a recreation area and full bath—ideal for guests, an in-law/au pair suite, a home office, or a playroom.”

Other Notable Fresh Listings:

  • The Most Expensive Home of the Week is an 8BR/6FB/2HB Beaux Arts style detached home in Georgetown with 7k+ total sq. ft. across 4 levels and features a 2-car garage, 4 fireplaces, 2 kitchens, a nanny/in-law suite with its own kitchen, a study/office, 2 parlors, a large upper level balcony and a fenced-in rear patio with lush landscaping—all for $8.5M.
  • This 1BR/1BA Dupont residence is a stunning and thoughtfully updated one-bedroom home, offering 673 square feet of spacious and serene living with iconic views of the Scottish Rite Temple and historic 16th Street. Walls of windows fill every room with natural light, highlighting the gorgeous oak wood floors that flow throughout the expansive open layout. The wide floor plan—one of the largest among one-bedroom options in the building—creates an effortless connection between the living room, dining area, and kitchen.
  • “Enjoy over 1,000 square feet of sun-drenched living in this two bedroom, two full bath condo located in the charming and historic Capitol Hill. This Jenkins Row Condominium is truly fabulous! The kitchen, with breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops, shares an open floor plan with the dining and spacious living area.”
  • Your REO/Bank-Owned Property of the Week is a 3BR/2.5BA federal style interior rowhome in Marshall Heights, being sold “strictly AS-IS” is a “great opportunity to buy way below market value.”
Click Here

Mobile dentistry for seniors & assisted living—smiles made easy

By District Mobile Dental
Dr. Seth Dubin, D.M.D. The owner and primary care provider of District Mobile Dental.

Dental Visits, Redefined: We Come to You

District Mobile Dental delivers expert in-home dental care to seniors and those with mobility challenges—no travel required! Using advanced portable equipment, we provide preventive checkups & cleanings, plus restorative treatment like fillings, crowns, bridges, and dentures—all within the comfort of your home, community, or care facility. Flexible scheduling, transparent communication, and emergency service make high-quality care easy and accessible.

Led by a Certified Dementia Practitioner®, our compassionate team also understands the unique needs of individuals with memory or cognitive conditions, offering sensitive care with every visit.

District Mobile Dental helps save time, money, and worry by bringing trusted oral healthcare directly to your door. Experience brighter smiles and greater peace of mind – reach out today to learn more! Our concierge is happy to answer any questions you might have and see if our service is the right match for you or your loved one.

“Dr. Dubin and his trusty sidekick are an excellent resource for the homebound in need of dental care. He is skillful, compassionate and very careful to clearly explain everything he does for his patient. The range of services that can be provided at home was surprisingly broad and it is the least stressful environment for a fragile senior.”

Schedule an in-home dental visit

Celebrate 20 Years of Reuse with Community Forklift

By Sponsor
1/4

Community Forklift is turning 20, and this October you’re invited to celebrate two decades of lifting up communities through reuse!

Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a first-time visitor, we’ve got two unique events to mark this major milestone — one warehouse evening and one family-friendly afternoon. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate our reuse mission, connect with fellow Forklift Fans, and have a whole lot of fun while you’re at it!

TICKETED EVENT: Salvage Soirée

Thursday, October 16, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Community Forklift’s Reuse Warehouse (4671 Tanglewood Dr., Edmonston, MD 20781)

Step into a one-of-a-kind evening set against the backdrop of salvaged treasures and creative reuse. The 20th Anniversary Salvage Soirée is a chance to don your thrifted best, dive into the inspiring world of reuse, and support Community Forklift’s mission to divert usable materials from the landfill and get them into the hands of the community. Tickets are on sale now!

Your Ticket Includes:

  • Texas-Style BBQ: Enjoy mouthwatering eats from 2Fifty BBQ, winner of RAMMY’s 2025 Casual Restaurant of the Year, and one of the New York Times’s “25 Best Restaurants in Washington, DC”.
  • Live Bluegrass Music: Tap your toes to the progressive stringband sounds of Cherry Blossom Special.
  • Open Bar: Sip craft brews, wine, and a signature cocktail courtesy of Denizens Brewing Co., the award-winning Riverdale Park brewery.
  • Interactive Salvaged Spaces: Explore artfully curated spaces designed by local talents including Unparalleled Eye Designs, Estate Sale Afficionado Maddy Brannon (@maddytheb), The Adored Nest, Maison Wynn, and Snappy’s Small Bar.

Plus: a silent auction, community awards, and more surprises in store! (more…)

Check out all of our upcoming events!

Work is evolving. Benefits should evolve, too.

By Shipt

Shoppers and drivers with Shipt love having the flexibility to set their own schedules. In fact, more than 90 percent prefer picking up work when and where it makes sense over a set schedule and hours. Learn how a new portable benefits model allows workers to choose benefits that are right for them, without compromising the flexibility they need.

Learn More
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