Eastern Market is a local food market located within walking distance of our apartment building.  It’s well-known in D.C. and is usually pretty busy on Saturday and Sunday mornings.  The outside part of the market is lined with rows of fresh produce and independent vendors selling their merchandise.  There are people selling paintings, clothing, and jewelry, and lots of miscellaneous items that are fun to look at and can make great souvenirs.  

The inside part of the market is where the bakery and fresh meat sections are, as well as other foods like hummus and handmade pastas. While I can’t afford to do all of my grocery shopping there, it’s a great place to get high-quality produce and some other foods that you wouldn’t typically get at the grocery store.  For example, the sweet potato cake with cream cheese frosting from the bakery is a must.  The Market is definitely worth going to at least once for the experience, but I have loved going many weekends while here in D.C. and it’s one of the things I will probably miss the most once I’m back in Ohio!

On a side note, there seem to be a lot of people with dogs at the Market, as well as our neighborhood in general.  I think just about everyone here owns either a French bull dog or a pug.  

My Favorite Study Tour

I had the best of times meeting up with my fellow WAIP buddies during their East Wing tour of the White House. Though the holiday decorations were a few weeks out, I was such fun to walk through the People's House and share the various anecdotes I've learned throughout my time here.

The Fall 2014 WAIP Fellows at the White House

Photo evidence that I'm here!

East Wing tours are by far the better of the two tours (though I'm probably biased...), as we got to view the lower cross hall and State Floor. So many historic moments have happened in the residence, and it's always amazing to be inside the White House, knowing who all has stood in the very same room. And, there's nothing cooler than making an O-H-I-O picture on the North Portico...

My favorite photo taken in DC :-)

Now that the holiday season is underway, guests can schedule a special Holiday Tour to view the decorations that adorn the House. To view this year's stunning decorations, click here for a preview!

-Sarah Montell

White House East Wing Tour

A recent study tour was a tour of the East Wing of the White House.  This may be one of my favorite tours that we have been on.  Luckily, we had the extra bonus of being guided through the building by our very own WAIP fellow Sarah Montell, who works in the Social Office of the First Lady and gets to work in this amazing building every day!  The inside of the Wing is beautiful, with extravagant chandeliers and flower arrangements in many of the rooms, portraits of past presidents, and pictures of the First family.  The greatest part of the tour (and I know Katy Hogan was incredibly excited by this, too) was that we got to see Bo and Sunny!  They happened to be inside when we were there and we quickly hurried up the stairs to get closer to them.  We tried to pet them (obviously) and came so close, but we couldn’t get past a guy who was petting them and then Bo was over it and walked away….so sad.  However, the experience was still extremely cool and I’m so glad Katy was able to set up the tour for us!  We spent part of the tour in the central part of the White House, which is where the First family lives and dines and such, so that was very cool as well.  One thing: if you ever visit the White House, remember to bring a government-issued ID because there is a lot of security! This could be slightly difficult if you lose your driver’s license like I did and have to remember to carry your passport everywhere.

 I’m excited for tomorrow’s tour of the Washington Monument, a place I run by frequently thanks to the great location where we live on the Hill!

Exploring the National Cathedral

Exploring every corner of DC was a goal of mine, and I feel I finally accomplished that after an impromptu trip to the National Cathedral with my visiting aunt and cousin. After going to the Dupont Farmer's Market -- which trumps Eastern Market, in my opinion -- we drove around Embassy Row and made our way to the top of the hill to the Cathedral.

Late October has to be my favorite time, and the weather this Sunday afternoon couldn't have been more perfect. My family and I made our way up to the observation deck, and spent a good hour admiring the view and learning about the history of our National Cathedral, part of which was damaged in the 2011 earthquake.

The building has an incredible amount of history. During World War II, monthly services were held at the National Cathedral "on behalf of a united people in a time of emergency." Before and since, it has hosted other major events, both religious and secular, that continue to bring together the America people.

That view! 

Up on the Observation Deck of the National Cathedral.

This area is one of my favorites in the District. Afterwards, we explored the Phillips Collection private art gallery, and explored the Swedish embassy - which looked like an art gallery of its own!

Inside the Swedish Embassy, with indoor water features and an art gallery of its own.

It has been so wonderful seeing so many different facets of this city, and making DC truly feel like home!

- Sarah Montell

Theodore Roosevelt Island

On a sunny October day, I decided to head over to the memorial of my favorite President, Theodore Roosevelt Island. There’s a large park that surrounds my small hometown, so I thought I knew what to expect. Upon reaching the bridge, however, I realized that this was much more than a small nature reserve.

Immediately after stepping foot on the island, I was surrounded by forest and wildlife. It was absolutely beautiful. I started down one of the many paths, observing each of the markers along the way. I really enjoyed how they took the time to tell the story of the many historical elements of the park. There were also many trees carved with the initials of people who had taken the paths before, many dating back 30 or 40 years.

I cut through some trees and arrived at the gargantuan monument. I did not expect such a large entity due to the relatively small size of the island. There were fountains along the border, large stone plaques celebrating quotes by Roosevelt, and a giant statue of the man himself. I took several minutes to just admiral the design of the courtyard that I was standing in.

After exploring the island and seeing the various mini-ecosystems contained within one monument, I feel that the architects of the monument pinned Roosevelt’s character perfectly. As an advocate for nature preservation, Teddy would have been proud to see the embodiment of his work right next to the bustle of our nation’s capital.

--Stevan Jechura

WAIPsgiving Festivities!

 The WAIP fellows were in Washington D.C. for Thanksgiving this fall. While some people were traveling home for the holiday and others were staying here, we all decided we wanted to have a Thanksgiving, or WAIPsgiving, together. This was a really fun event and highlighted to me how fortunate we all were to have spent an entire semester working in, learning in and exploring DC.

Every cooked a ton of delicious food and we all feasted in my, Sarah S. and Katie's apartment. Matt even made an entire turkey! It felt like a Thanksgiving at home with everyone happy, laughing, telling stories and talking about what they were thankful for. It was a wonderful night.

Matt and our turkey!

Sarah M. and Jen getting their plates

Sarah M. and Thomas getting ready to chow down

Katie and Brendan enjoying themselves

Some of our good eats: stuffing, mashed potatoes, turkey...yum

The spread!

Thomas and Sarah S. feasting together

 -Molly K.

A few weeks ago, my aunt came into town with an organization from Columbus, Ohio, called "Harmony Project." They came from Columbus to sing a song, and to plant a seed. Their mission states that they are "a non-profit organization created to connect communities across social divides through art, education, and volunteerism. They provide opportunities for individuals of different cultures, religions, ages, affiliations, and orientations to work together. The result: a stronger, more inclusive community."

 Coming to Washington, Harmony Project will hopefully encourage people to serve the D.C. community and be part of a fun choir at the same time. I had not been a part of Harmony Project in Columbus, but after all of my aunts friends in the organization took me out to dinner as a "thank you" for showing them around after their song, I saw the camaraderie that exists in a group like that, and I am considering joining up in Columbus, or when I move back here to D.C.

This link is a video from their event at Union Station: https://harmonyproject.com/dc.

SUGAR RUSH

LOOK AT THESE CANNOLIS

Never been to the Eastern Market? You need to go. Immediately. Run. (Except not right now because it's closed.) Many of the vendors sell amazing food, BUT(!!) at the very south end of the building lies a bakery that sells delicious treats for relatively cheap. It's called the FINE SWEET SHOPPE, and it's pretty much great. Georgetown may brag about their cupcake game, but this place sells huge frickin' pieces of sweet potato cake for $2.50! Compare THAT with Starbuck's billion-dollar pumpkin bread (OK, it's actually like $3, but still)!!

Among all of the other stupendous choices, they also cater to cannoli lovers with their large cannolis (pictures above, captioned "LOOK AT THESE CANNOLIS") for $2.99 each. Sounds expensive? It's not. It's a frickin' cannoli, and it's frickin' delicious. Just don't eat it in oppressive summer heat like I did and get nauseous. It's ill-advised.

So if you have a hankerin' for some sugary salvation, go to the Fine Sweet Shoppe at Eastern Market!

- Ian B

The Two Seasons of DC

November 30, 2014

Visiting the District, one might think, "Oh, the weather is great!" I cannot argue, the weather is nice, and then you realized there are only really two seasons in D.C. Growing up in the cold north of Minnesota and moving to Ohio, I am used to having, if not a bit of each of the four seasons.  Trust me, 70F in November is treat, it just comes as a shock when my mom calls on Halloween saying they have 8" of snow. All-in-all, the District has an warm east-coast summer and this rainy, "cold" half-brother thing they call winter.

This description may just be in the city though. Mid-November, a buddy and I went out to Great Falls National Park. There, I saw the autumn that the city hides.

Straddling the Potomac River, Great Falls Park, this is the place to be active in DC. The park and be an easy jaunt or you can make it very challenging like us. This perch we found above required some serious thought of how best not to fall while climbing. All in all, a great afternoon. Until we failed miserably at hitchhiking to the bus stop- I guess people do not do that anymore.

This Thanksgiving, I decided to see what the District had to offer. First, I could not complain about the 60F weather. Second, through the Waip program WISH housing, I had the opportunity to meet a large group from Turkey. So, we had their first Thanksgiving. Very interesting, learning about their culture, music, and making friends through the program.

Old Town Alexandria

A few weeks ago I had a friend come in from my hometown to explore DC. We decided to head over to Old Town Alexandria, since we both enjoy history. Although it was a long walk from the nearest metro station, we knew when we were getting close when the streets stopped being neatly paved and instead turned to cobblestone. The residential area was absolutely beautiful, with homes that looked like they hadn't changed since they were first built in the 1700's.

Once we reached King Street, we were greeted by an old trolley. It was a nice public service to be able to ride for a free tour. We learned that Alexandria has a very rich history, and it was entertaining to see the many colonial-themed shops.

Where the street finally met the Potomac River, we decided to get off and look inside the torpedo factory. Near the door we encountered a performer making amazing music out of water and wine glasses. Inside, there were multiple floors, each filled with interesting art. We were even able to watch some of the artists at work.

Visiting Alexandria was by far the most endearing part of my friend’s visit. It’s definitely worth the long metro ride!

--Stevan Jechura

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is definitely a highlight in DC, but probably one of the most neglected. (Perhaps because, at first thought, a library is not usually deemed a tourist attraction.) While I found the architecture extremely gaudy, it remains awe-inspiring if only for the intricate nature of its design.

The following pictures are only from the main entrance, which unfortunately is the only area the public is able to take pictures. With its high, painted ceilings, it resembles more the ornate Capitol Building than the Supreme Court, which is far more minimalistic.

The picture above is a section of the LoC's ceiling that contains skylights. (I'm afraid I don't know whether the light is natural or man-made.)

Above is a closer look at the staircase. Facing this direction, slightly to the left and back, is the Grand Reading Room. I highly recommend coming to study/research here at least once--it is beautiful, temple-like, and actually dwarfs the cupola of the Capitol building (or seems to, at least). Definitely a fantastic motivation to get some work done!

-- Ian Barlow

2014 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals

My favorite event this semester was the 2014 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals awards ceremony, hosted by the Partnership for Public Service (my internship site). This was a special night that recognizes outstanding federal employees and their accomplishments. 

The "Sammies" ceremony in action.

All the fellows got to attend this event which was really exciting because some of our cohort had done hours and hours of work helping with the event planning and logistics. We got to sit in on the awards and hear all about some of the amazing accomplishments these federal employees achieved. Here is an example:

http://servicetoamericamedals.org/SAM/finalists/nsm/hajjeh.shtml (video in link)

All their stories are really incredible and I loved knowing that I was working for an organization that not only celebrated these stories but encouraged them to be told. Too often, government is blamed for everything going wrong in this country; it was refreshing and inspiring to hear about the things that government is getting right. 

Some of the Partnership fellows at the event.

All the finalists on stage together. 

All dressed up!

"Exceptional People Deserve Special Recognition" 

You can learn more about award winners present and past here online: http://servicetoamericamedals.org/SAM/index.shtml

-Molly Koenig

DC at Dusk

I’ve really come to enjoy exploring DC after dark, both as a way to destress after long days at work and to see the monuments looking their best. Walking the tidal basin to the Jefferson — a neglected monument and one of my favorites — helped me find some perspective the other night, and reflect on the incredible experiences I’ve had thus far in Washington. 

Jefferson seems so far removed from the rest of the mall, and its steps are rarely crowded with camera-happy tourists that gravitate towards the Lincoln and Washington monuments. For as hectic and fast-paced this city is at any given point in the week, Jefferson is refreshingly quiet.  

I think what has been the most interesting adjustment is the pace of life here; Even when I get on the metro at 8:30pm after a long day at work, numerous other young professionals are just then ending their work days. The city is so vibrant, so full of energy, but can be exhausting at the same time. Taking a walk through the monuments is a way for me to hit the pause button and remember why I’m here, how fortunate I am to have this experience, and what all I’ve been able to accomplish. 

- Sarah Montell 

United States Botanic Garden

Several weeks ago, I visited the US Botanic Garden on a blustery Sunday afternoon. Saying it was nice stepping into a climate controlled, aesthetically pleasing environment would have been an understatement that day. I have found that Chicago might have a rival competing for the title of Windy City. Anyway, the Garden was beautiful. It is about half block away from the Capitol Building and is definitely worth a quick side trip before you see your favorite Congresswoman, Senator, etc. In the pictures above and below, you will see some seasonally appropriate fall foliage and sculptures of Washington landmarks. The sculptures are hand carved by a man from Kentucky, who fashions them from various plant materials. Pretty cool display of craftsmanship and patriotism, right?

- Nick Lascu

DONNA!

By Brendan Lin

Entrance to the West Wing

A few of us were lucky enough to visit the White House West Wing two weeks ago, and it was quite the experience. To be honest, it was very humanizing. I'll explain why.

The West Wing is a very small, very comfortable feeling office building. We went at around 8:45pm, when most of the staffers had already gone home. Inside, there are nice soft carpets, wood accents, Dell computers, and soft, vanilla-colored walls. Occasionally there will be white-clad Secret Service officer or two standing by a hallway. It's not very pompous or ornamental, like the inside of the Capitol Building. This is simply where people show up to work, including the President of the United States.

I did get some chills when I recognized areas from famous photographs, including, of course, the Oval Office. It was a bit smaller than I expected, and very neat. Our guide Mary told us that it serves as more of a ceremonial reception area than a functional workplace. The President has a "real" office nearby. We also saw one of the doors to the Situation Room, which, apparently, occupies two floors. It was a smooth wooden door with the Presidential seal next to it. Above the seal were the words "The Situation Room." That was it. I really have no idea why I expected it to be different, but I had always imagined the door of the situation room to be a thick, secure chunk of metal, bank-vault style. To see people just casually walking in and out was sort of jarring.

We also got to see the Rose Garden, the Cabinet Room, the Roosevelt Room, and the Press Room. I was actually impressed by how no-nonsense everything was. It had a sort of subtle pride to it, rather than being flooded with the more pompous decorations that adorn other buildings in D.C. In fact, most of the decorations in the West Wing were simply photographs taken by the West Wing photographer. It was nice. It seems like a comfortable place to work.

Kayaking the Potomac

Seeing the monuments by water has always been a box I’ve wanted to check, and I finally got to do so back in early October. Myself, Molly, Sarah and Ian rented kayaks for $15 — a bargain by DC’s standards — and spend the afternoon paddling around Roosevelt Island. 

Theodore Roosevelt Island, located across from the Kennedy Center and Georgetown in the middle of the Potomac, is an island national memorial dedicated to our 26th president. No cars or bicycles are permitted on the island, which is only accessible via kayak or footbridge from Arlington, VA. Visitors can hike along the various trails and marshes that compose the island, and check out the 17-foot statue of Teddy Roosevelt at its center. 

The statue of Teddy Roosevelt in the center of the island.

After kayaking around the southern tip of the island, we came across one of the most unique vantage points of the city, with the Lincoln, Jefferson, and Washington monuments all at once visible from our kayak seats. The weather was perfection: breezy and sunny, almost reminding me of the kayaking trips I’ve done in the Florida mangroves. Aside from getting an arm and core workout, the afternoon was relaxing and reflective, and such a memorable time with my lovely WAIP friends. 

Obligatory monument selfie! 

From all the various angles I’ve admired the monuments, this is by far my favorite view. Being so far removed from the bustle of the city was an incredibly refreshing way to spend a Sunday, and is a must for DC tourists and residents alike. 

- Sarah Montell 

The Congressional Black Caucus Foundations Annual Legislative Conference

As a part of my government affairs internship with Marathon Petroleum Corporation I had the opportunity to attend the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference.  Marathon had four employees from their regional offices travel to D.C. to attend the conference on behalf of MPC. The conference consisted of issue forums sponsored by members of the Congressional Black Caucus which focused on encouraging African American involvement in business and the public service sector while fighting the civil and social injustices many African Americans continue to endure. The conference cultivated on Saturday evening with the Phoenix Awards Dinner, a black-tie event, featuring President Barrack Obama as the keynote speaker.

I attended forums with the MPC employees specifically related to energy, science and technology, business and STEM education. My favorite forum was a science and technology Brain Trust emphasizing STEM education and employment sponsored by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX), Ranking Minority Member of the House Science, Space and Technology Committee. The Brain Trust consisted of two panels: the first, “A Day in the Life,” featured positive role models in the fields of math, engineering and science to share their personal stories of struggle and triumph; and the second, “Diversifying Silicon Valley,” highlighted personal testimonies from prominent STEM businesses to discuss the critical role STEM fields will play in jobs of the future. I found this forum especially interesting because Ohio State’s President Drake was a member of the first panel of speakers. I enjoyed hearing him speak about his medical and professional careers and how he was able to triumph over the struggles he endured along the way. This was the first time I’ve had the opportunity to see President Drake or hear him speak because I have not been in Columbus since he began his tenure as President and I’m glad I was able to attend this forum and learn about him before I graduate from Ohio State this December.

The MPC employees and I were also given a personal tour of the Capitol Building led by a member of Congressman Randy Weber’s (R-TX) staff. The tour consisted of the Crypt, the Rotunda, the old Supreme Court room, the old Senate chambers, and the Hall of Statues. In addition, MPC employees were given the special privilege of standing on Speaker John Boehner’s (R-OH) balcony which overlooks the Capitol Hill reflecting pool and the National Mall.

 

The view from Speaker Boehner's Capitol Building office balcony.

 

Saturday evening concluded the conference with the extravagant Phoenix Awards Dinner to celebrate individuals who have positively impacted the African American community. President Obama delivered the keynote address where he acknowledged his esteemed colleague, former Attorney General Eric Holder, for his notable effort to eliminate the social injustices facing the African American community. Holder, who was amongst audience members, received a warm round of applause. I am truly grateful I was able to attend the CBC ALC. I was inspired by all the personal stories about hard-working and accomplished individuals who endured hardships throughout their careers but still managed to prosper and now dedicate their lives to helping others do the same. I also really enjoyed hearing President Obama speak at the Phoenix Awards Dinner and I hope to attend the conference again in the future.  

This is me, right before I went to the Phoenix Awards Dinner with keynote speaker, President Obama.

 

-Sarah Spaulding