"No Spectators" at the Renwick

To some, Burning Man seems like a relic of the past, made for those who miss Woodstock. To others, it offers escapism when a touch of wonder is desperately needed. The annual event in Nevada’s Black Rock Desert is getting a chance to speak for itself at the Renwick Gallery with “No Spectators,” a collection of work from Burning Man mainstays.

After over thirty years of operation, the experimental gathering gained a reputation as a desert bacchanal. To those not involved in Black Rock Culture, the sunburn and stupefied behavior can be the final impression. However, attendees contribute the euphoria to the art and design, as much as the illicit substances. Curator Nora Atkinson has assembled the collection to show Washingtonians the childlike wonder the event promotes.

Of course, the attendees need not analyze the work deeply to enjoy it. Docents can be found scatter among the rooms, wearing Seussian hats and less noticeable badges. Whimsical as it seems, any conceivable question a guest may have is met with complete sincerity and enthusiasm. The guides can explain all there is to know about the giant metallic dragon on wheels, the wooden temple on the second floor or the stop sign that reads “START.”

Five Ton Crane, a California-based art collective, created the piece “Capitol Theater” specifically for the Renwick. The fully-functional cinema on wheels allows visitors to take a seat and enjoy a film, made as part of the project. Only once you get your head around this concept do you realize everything is a little stranger than initially thought. The theater is anachronistic, showing only silent films and “selling” candy for five cents while exhibiting neon lights and art deco styling. Esoteric, certainly, but it fits seamlessly with its exhibit counterparts.

As I finished walking through the ground floor, “A Series of Unfortunate Events” came to mind. The children’s series gained a devote following during the time I was the age of the intended readership. The themes in the books -- absurdism, Victorian Gothic, self-referential humor, etc -- mirror what I saw as I noted the details in the art. Curiosity and intellectualism are not things to shun, they should be sought out and celebrated. Pieces like Natalia Bertotti and Michael Garlington’s “Paper Arch” beckon the viewer to come closer and find patterns in the seeming madness.

FoldHaus, another West Coast art group, contributed their piece “Shrumen Lumen,” which displayed at Burning Man 2016. Replacing traditional paper with thick slices of plastic, FoldHaus created origami light-up mushrooms that lack the immature feel the description might imply. Powered by attendees stepping on a floor panel, the mushrooms grow and shrink like luminous lungs. Children and adults alike lined up to power the transition with their weight.

The interactivity of the exhibit is reminiscent of the Yayoi Kusama retrospective that had a limited two month run at the Hirshhorn in early 2017. Instead of incorporating mirrors and the Casimir effect as Kusama did, “No Spectators” relies on the mediums of paper and wood- ephemeral and able to go up in flames at a moment's notice.

These types of exhibitions and modern art in general are having a renaissance among a younger generation, gaining popularity in the hyper-visual, social media age. Purists bemoan the constant viewing of art through a phone screen. Curators exalt in having a surefire way to fill their museums each weekend.

In a situation where there is no definitive right or wrong, it’s undeniable that reciprocative art is a growing force that gives no indications of slowing down.

“No Spectators” capitalizes on this trend spectacularly. The pieces displayed are engaging and, as the title suggests, visitors are there to do more than just view. They are there to experience.

A common complaint about the world of art is the seeming air of exclusivity. One may ask “how does this relate to me?” and have disinterest spring from lack of an answer. “No Spectators” lowers the bar to entry by making the exhibit directly relatable to almost no one, leveling the playing field.

The exhibit, like the event is portrays, is a carnival of sensory overload, making you nostalgic for a time that never occured. It is wonderful and confusing and highly recommended. Interested parties should mind the denouement of the display- “No Spectators” will remain at the Renwick until January 21st.

The March DC Lineup

Here's my list of DC events that you may have missed for March. Try something new this month to help you thaw from the weather!

March, Ongoing: The Francophonie Cultural Festival

Throughout the month of March, join more than 40 embassies as they celebrate the world's largest festival dedicated to French language and culture. The Francophonie Cultural Festival is entering its 18th year and has an increasing number of participants each time. Attendees are often surprised by the extend of French influence, with exhibits from Lebanon to Romania to Haiti. A majority of the events hosted are free and a full schedule can be found here.

March 3: Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade

If you're willing to venture south of DC, you can find Alexandria's annual St. Patrick's Day Parade.

Organized by the Ballyshaners, the parade celebrates the town's Irish heritage and pride. Out-of-towners are welcome and it's a great event for kids of all ages. Bring your lawn chairs and a lunch for an afternoon out of the city.

The parade begins at 12:30pm, at Alfred and King Streets, and continues towards Lee Street and Cameron Street until 2:30pm.

March 11: Orange Grove Dance

The international dance troupe Orange Grove will perform on the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage, as part of the venue's free arts line-up. The group is known for incorporating light and sound in their modern performances to create an overall ethereal experience. Tickets are distributed for free an hour prior to the show, with a cap of two tickets per person. More information on Orange Grove can be found here, with the Kennedy Center's full Millennium Stage line-up linked here.

March 15-25: Environmental Film Festival

Hear unique perspectives and stories from around the world á la An Inconvenient Truth at this year's Environmental Film Festival. This year, 100+ films will be shown to the over 30,000 people who attend annually. Many of the screenings are free and a full schedule can be found at the festival's website.

March 17: Shamrock Fest

Get in touch with your Irish side the March with Shamrock Fest. America's largest St. Patrick's Day event is hosted every year at RFK Stadium from noon to 8pm

While the line-up is likely filled with unfamiliar performers (possible exceptions being Sum 41 and Shaggy), people generally go for the atmosphere and green beer. Take part in carnival games, watch traditional Irish dance performances and try your hand at the mechanical bull.

General admissions tickets are available for $35-$45

March 21-25: In the Heights @ the Kennedy Center

From the mind of Hamilton creator Lin Manuel Miranda comes his first Tony award winner, In the Heights. The story of the evolving Washington Heights neighborhood takes over the Kennedy Center for five days this month and tickets are selling fast. For more information, check out the Kennedy Center's website.

March 23: Capital Comedy Festival

Comedy more your speed than musicals? Capital Comedy Festival is on March 23 at at 7pm at DAR Constitution Hall. Featured performers include Sommore, Arnez J, Don DC Curry, George Wallace, Tommy Davidson and George Wellborn. Tickets start at $52.

March 31: Blossom Kite Festival

Enjoy the first signs of spring in the District with the Blossom Kite Festival! The event, part of the city's iconic cherry blossom celebration, fills the air around the Washington Monument with kites of all shapes and sizes. 

Kids can make their own kites at crafting stations and everyone can enjoy the massive displays that people enter into the overall flying competition. Everything is free and open to the public.

The official activities run from 10am to 4:30pm, though you're likely to still see a selection of flyers before and after. For more information, visit the festival's official page.

Artechouse: Parallel Universes

A favorite of the art and Instagram crowd, DC's Artechouse has unveiled its newest exhibition. "Parallel Universes" is described as "a psychedelic, eye-of-the-storm experience of whirling fractals and light beams" and it does not disappoint.

Open now through March 4th, the installation is a light and sound display comprised of four distinct sections. At times, one gets the sense of being part of an extended Black Mirror opening.

The exhibit are not interactive in the traditional sense, like Artechouse's previous exhibit XYZT. Still, it provides a plethora of photo opportunities, as evident by the handful of mini photo shoots I witnessed. 

Before going further: Parallel Universes comes with an epilepsy warning.

Often when I see an indication like this, I don't think much of it. Granted, I'm lucky not to have medical concerns. Still, I've only seen the warning for theater productions, when a single flash bomb went off and smoke appeared.

This is not the same.

If you have any medical concerns, skip this. I don't have these concerns and I still felt a strong sensory overload at times.

The most enjoyable section was the main room. Filled with massive bean bag chairs, it's the best place to recline and experience. The image loop is long enough that it don't feel repetitious. 

It's easy to see where the artist incorporated inspiration from nature and science into the displays. Fractals dance across the wall and small blobs multiple in a way reminiscent of cell growth.

I can only image what it would be like to view inebriated.

Orion, the last of the four sections, proved to be disappointing. Perhaps because it's the only one that demands a wait time. Still, it lacked the nuance of the main room and offered all the bass and lights of an EDM show without the music or fun.

There's no time limit to your admission, despite the exhibit having timed entrances, so come hang out for as long as you have time.

While you're hear, consider trying Artechouse's new iPhone application. The gallery has been touting the app's alternate reality features, which lets your phone interact with the current exhibit. While the app's current options are not extensive, if you have the time and the data, it's worth downloading.

Evening admission is restricted to 21 and older. General admission tickets are available for $15, though you can flash your student ID for a discount.

Artechouse
1238 Maryland Ave SW
Washington, DC 20024

Eastern Market DC

When I went to DC's Eastern Market for the first time, it was exactly as I had imagined.

A colorful array of interesting wares were available in every direction. Locals walked dogs and babies alike. And the eclectic mix of vendors and buyers made for a fun afternoon of people-watching. Even the sun was shining, with a light breeze to cut through the District's notorious humidity. I can't promise good weather when you visit, but I can say you won't regret the trip.

If you can think of it, an artisan has made it. Jewelry made of out screws and purses made out of books, with everything in between. Half of the adventure is finding is searching through the dozens of vendors to find the perfect thing you didn't know you needed.

At the center of the market is the North Hall. The 19th century brick building is registered historic and reopened in 2009 following a three-alarm fire two years prior.

Inside, there's a community space that serves everyone from tango dancers to musical babies and a marketplace full of local vendors and grocers.

The North Hall is essentially a locally-sourced grocery store (take that, Whole Foods). Vendors sell everything from fish to flowers to fruit. At the far end, the bakery stand has fresh bread and, more importantly, pastries.

If you're not in the mood to buy ingredients and cook for yourself, there's a makeshift food court just outside. You can get southern comfort food with grits and okra or try something new, as many cooks bring their nationality to the market in in edible form. Either way, you'll have more variety the earlier in the day you go.

The market is closed on Mondays and is undoubtedly busiest on the weekends. I like going on Sundays, to get the full effect of a bustling marketplace. If you're interesting in buy, bring both cash and credit, as not everyone can process plastic payment.

Eastern Market
225 Seventh Street SE
Washington, DC 2000

The Red Bean Coffee & Ice Cream

On any given day, I function on two main food groups- chocolate and coffee. This sounds incredibly cliche, like something that would be found written across the front of a Forever 21 tee shirt. But on work days, coffee (often in mocha form) is often the only thing I'll ingest until noon or later. This approach is recommended by 0 out of 10 doctors but it does mean I have an extensive track record in sugary caffeination.

I'm not entering into the classic Starbucks v. Dunkin debate but instead want to introduce a third-party player in Annapolis, Maryland- The Red Bean.

The Red Bean Coffee and Ice Cream is the epitome of artisan, or at least that's how it's marketed. A chalkboard sign sits outside the Historic Annapolis storefront advertising the specialties of the day. This is initially what caught my attention.

 A blackberry jalapeño limeade isn't something you're going to come across daily, so I went inside to further explore the menu.

The fare was just as eclectic as anticipated. I ordered the iced peanut butter mocha and immediately recognized it had enough sugar to put me into a diabetic coma. It was awesome. If you got a similar drink from Dunkin, it would probably consist solely of coffee, ice and some sort of flavored syrup. I'm not sure what witchcraft Red Bean used, but it tasted like a pureed Reese's Cup mixed with genuinely good coffee.

As if that wasn't sweet enough, the second part of Red Bean is their ice cream. I am a total sucker for the combination of chilis and chocolate. I will take spicy chocolate over almost anything else, especially since it's so rarely available. When I saw they sold a cinnamon chili-chocolate ice cream, there was no hesitation in ordering a cup. The employees mix-in the ingredients so there's a wait but a worthwhile one. I got a small because it was 10am, so clearly I showed great restraint.

10/10, I'm absolutely getting this again. I fully intend to ask if they sell pints next time I go back.

The store itself is welcoming but with limited seating, epecially if you're competing with the work from home, novel writing crowd. You can sidestep this if you're only looking for treats to bring bayside, as the water is less than a block away. The shop sits right on Main Street in Historic Annapolis so it gets points for connivence.

The only downside is it never seems like there's enough employees behind the counter. This is especially true if a customer orders more than one or two drinks. If you're not in a rush, it's not a huge deal. However, this isn't the place to go if you work for Miranda Priestly (by all means, move a glacial pace, you know how that thrills me).

Good for a relaxed coffee break, less so for a desperate caffeine fix. Evaluate where you fall and go from there.

Red Bean Ice Cream & Coffee
220 Main Street
Annapolis, MD 21401

Ai Weiwei: Trace at the Hirshhorn

The Hirshhorn Museum has reentered the public mindset of late, with a series of attention-grabbing pieces from well-known artists.

Following the retrospective of Yayoi Kusama's work, the gallery brought in the newest installation from noted contemporary artist Ai Weiwei.

Weiwei is considered to be one of the most influential conceptual artists in China and is known as a free speech advocate. This has made him very unpopular with his home country's government, as he is openly critical of China's stance on democracy and accused human rights violations. Weiwei often incorporates similar themes into his work.

"Trace" is no except. 

Using over 1 million legos, Weiwei created over 170 portraits depicting individuals from across the globe who advocate for free speech and are persecuted from

Faces American audiences will easily recognize include Nelson Mandala, Edward Snowden, and Martin Luther King Jr.

"Trace" originally displayed on Alcatraz Island, fitting since Weiwei was incarcerated in China for almost three months without charges. Its installation at the Hirshhorn is the first time Trace has visited the East Coast.

The Art Assignment, a PBS production, published a video in favor of the artist's work and I definitely recommend it as a lens through which to view this exhibit.

The installation itself offers context as well. In each room, interactive screens allow visitors to learn more about the advocates behind the portraits. The short biographies often include jail time served as many of the people represented were arrest, without or without official charges (like Weiwei himself).

It's interesting that this exhibit comes on the heels of Kusama's work. Her retrospective at the Hirshhorn, entitled "Infinity Mirrors", required tickets for admission, in part because of the timed nature of the internal exhibits, and often had hours-long waits.

Outside of being a complex, immersive art piece, Kusuma's work was noted for its extreme popularity on social media. The number of profile pictures and selfies taken in the exhibits seemed to become as much of a story as the art itself.

Weiwei's work has a similar alluring visual quality but with a much clearer message. He brings attention to activists who promote free speech and expression, as if he's reminding us that their work, in part, is why we can peruse free public galleries and Instagram to our heart's delight.

Trace will remain at the Hirschhorn through the end of 2017.

Hirshhorn Museum
Independence Ave at 7th Street SW
Washington, DC 20024

Old Fox Bookstore & Coffee House

I don't use the word "magical" lightly. It is reserved for occasions like Harry Potter midnight movie premieres, seeing the Pacific Ocean for the first time, and eating homemade chocolate chip cookies.

So when I say that Old Fox Bookstore & Coffee House is magical, I want my full meaning to be clear.

This place is fascinating. At first glance, it appears to be a cozy (if standard) storefront. However, if you focus in at any particular point, you'll begin to see the incredibly intricate details come out of the woodwork.

You can find a typewriter, a bust of Abraham Lincoln with sunglasses, a mortar and pestle, a tank of lifelike jelly fish and numerous Harry Potter references, among other eccentricities.

Even the front desk has intrigue. Look below eye level and you'll notice two small windows and a front door built into the far left of the checkout counter. Peek inside the framework and you'll find a incredible reading room, sized for the Borrowers.

All the way to the back of the store is the Brown Mustache coffee shop. Admittedly, it leans towards painfully hipster (case in point- they sell boxed water). Still, they have lots of seating and WIFI so it's worth buying a water bottle or a scone if you want to sit back and relax.

And yet still there is more.

The basement houses books on magic and anatomy side by side. Maps act as wallpaper on exposed brick and the door behind the spiral staircase is surreptitiously marked with a handmade sign reading "Harry's Room."

Even the bathroom, no bigger than my wingspan, has a dozen different details. The walls are papered with the yellowing pages of old books.

It's easy to see that the owners are big fans of Harry Potter (as well they should be). Yet another sign is the decal applied to the tank of the toilet. If you need directions to the Ministry of Magic, look no further.

All the way to the back of the store is the Brown Mustache coffee shop. Admittedly, it leans towards painfully hipster (case in point- they sell boxed water). Still, they have lots of seating and WIFI so it's worth buying a water bottle or a scone if you want to sit back and relax.

The small courtyard behind the shop has the overall appearance of a fairy garden. Similar to the store itself, you can't appreciate how detailed and cared for the space is until you get up close.

The children's clubhouse tucked away in the corner of the courtyard is not only filled with books, it's made of books. The roof replicates an upside-down tome and the walls are made of filled bookshelves. A few costume pieces are available for young readers to help them become their favorite characters.

Admittedly, Old Fox's can be a little low on in-house stock. When I think of used bookstores, I think of Bookhaven in Philadelphia, which has books stacked from floor to ceiling. Outside of the children's section, a lot of the inventory at Old Fox is vintage or secondhand If you're looking for a specific book, you likely will not walk away with it the same day. However, the staff is great about ordering specific titles upon request.

I wish I had known about this store growing up. It's exactly the kind of place I would have dragged a parent to so I could spent the day reading in a big armchair or finding hiding spots. Being 5'9" (and an adult) really doesn't lend itself to hiding places. Still, the magic of Old Fox is that it can help even the most cantankerous adult feel like a kid again. 

Old Fox Bookstore & Coffee House
35 Maryland Avenue
Annapolis, MD 21401

The DC August Lineup

A new month means a whole new calendar of wining and dining in the District. Check out my August lineup below to see what you might have missed.

Through August 27: Game of Thrones Pop-up Bar

Whether you like daredevils, drinking or dragons (I'm a fan of all three), the Game of Thrones Pop-up Bar should definitely be on your list this month. Through August 27, the geek's dream pub has taken over almost 3000 square feet on 7th Street. Patrons under the age of 21 can come through before 11 p.m. but they have to be with a certified grown-up (the website says "parents" but a cool older brother would do). If you're old enough to have fun, the drink menu includes conceptions with names like "The North Remembers" and "The Imps Delight." You're encouraged to go all out and come in costume, if the spirit so moves you.

August 3: The Washington Pancakes & Booze Art Show

This 21+ events features over 100 artists and has everything the title implies- alcohol and free pancakes! Pancakes & Booze is being held at Penn Social, starting at 7pm. Performances are scheduled by local DJs and body painters. Tickets are $15 at the door but can be purchased cheaper in advance.

August 5: Full Moon Monuments Walk

The walk starts at the base of the Washington monument and ends at the World War II memorial. The meet-up begins at 6:30pm and it's consistently a huge group (last month's event had over 500 people). The walk departs at approximately 7pm. This is a great opportunity for photos and to see DC with fresh eyes. The event is free but organizers do ask that you RSVP.

August 8: Movie Night at Georgetown Waterfront Park

Bring a blanket and a case of root beer to enjoy date night at the final Sunset Cinema showing in Georgetown. "The Devil Wears Prada" is the audience-voted flick that will round-off the Women in Film summer theme and will start sometime between 8:45pm and 9pm. This event is open to the public, no chairs allowed.  The Georgetown Waterfront Park is part of the National Parks Service so alcohol is technically prohibited (I had to say it. You're welcome to go ahead and ignore me, but at your own peril).

August 12: World Elephant Day

Join the National Museum of African Art as it celebrates how elephants have influence artists for centuries while fighting against the illicit ivory trade. Listen to local storyteller Diane Macklin, touch your way through the museum's teaching collection and see PBS' Soul of an Elephant. Events are scheduled from 11am to 3pm, with everything free and open to the public.

August 19: Valentino Khan at 9:30 Club

Get weird with Valentino Khan and his fusion between house, dubstep and trap music. Khan has worked with EDM well-knowns, including Steve Aoki and Skrillex, and is now touring on his own. The concert starts at 10pm and is all-ages (though maybe don't bring your kid sibling). Tickets are general admission, standard for venue, and $20 a piece.

August 24: Hirshhorn Summer Evenings

Join the Hirshhorn Musuem's summer evenings series as pop-up talks revisit classic collections and visitor favorites. The evening leads into the final week of Masterworks from the Hirschhorn Collection. Free to the public, this event runs from 5pm to 8:30pm.

August 25: CreativeMornings/DC Morgan West

Head back to the Hirshhorn to join Creative DC founder Morgan West as he talks about the creative collective behind DC's artistic growth. Network with other freelancers and artists over breakfast. Part of the CreativeMornings/DC series, the event starts at 8:30am and runs to 10am.

August 26: The 17th Street Festival

Happening rain or shine, the 17th Street Festival is bringing together local vendors with performances from dance groups, DJs and drag performers (this is DC, after all).  A designated kids' zone will include a ball pit, moon bounce, and enough sugar to keep them tweaked for weeks. The festival also includes a pet zone (admittedly, kind of the same thing) to bring together local puppers and help find adoptable dogs forever homes. The festival runs from noon until 6pm and is free to the public. For $10, you can purchase a discount pass for local businesses and restaurants. The full entertainment line-up can be viewed here.

August 30: Broad Way Comedy Night

From witty to raunchy, come enjoy all that DC's ladies of comedy have to offer. Drafthouse Comedy hosts Broad Way Comedy, led by Franqi French. Starting at 8pm, this 18+ event promises to be wonderfully weird and I look forward to burning calories laughing. No tickets necessary and no minimums- Drafthouse just asks that you RSVP.

Kittens in Cups

Cat cafes, bistro-styled storefront where felines are encouraged to fraternize with customers and each other, seem to be popping up everywhere. 

The Taiwanese trend came over to the United States in 2014, when the first American cat cafe open in California. They've only grown in popularity since and Annapolis, MD now has a cat cafe of its very own.

Annapolis could hardly be considered rural. However, it doesn't have the same, wall-to-wall metropolis feel that many cities with cat cafes exude.

Because of this, Kittens in Cups was able to open in a bigger space than most new feline-based businesses. KiC allows a surprising amount of breathing room, for both its cats and guests. I believe the owners cap reservations to 15 at a time. It's not hard to see the capacity for more people, should a private event demand it.

In case this wasn't wholly apparent, this is not the place for those who don't identify as cat-people. Even if you're only partial to the domesticated assholes (she said with love), you'll be surrounded by people fawning over small furry creatures. If you don't get it, you don't get it.

Like most cafes, the feline residents are available for adoption. As of writing, KiC has facilitated 19 adoptions through the SPCA of Anne Arundel County.

Most health codes don't allow cat cafes to prepare food on-site, so each finds unique ways to sidestep this inconvenience. KiC offers drinks and snacks for sale in the lobby, away from the kitten cuddles (and associated fur tumbleweeds). In short- don't come here focusing on the "cafe" aspect.

For telecommuters, KiC can offer a nice change of pace from your home office or local Starbucks. You're almost guaranteed to have the place to yourself during the week and guests have free access to a secure wifi connection.

Admittedly, it's kind of like telling yourself you're going to get work done while hammocking. It sounds great in theory but you will undoubtedly be less productive than if you sat at a proper desk with no furry distractions. Still, coming to KiC with a laptop and a coffee is the "Treat Yo Self" you deserve.

My biggest piece of advice: guard your heart. Otherwise, you'll blink and find yourself taking home every cat that finds its way onto your lap.

Kittens in Cups
177 Defense Highway
Annapolis, MD 21403

The Penguin Diner

For just over a decade, the Penguin Diner has operated just off the boardwalk of Bethany Beach. The restaurant boosts Delaware-local ingredients and a varied menu, all served with a (admittedly saccharine-tinged) smile.

The entire place screams family-friendly, appropriate for the area. Even the bar at the front makes it clear that it exists only to offer libations to stressed, sunburned parents. One of the more endearing touches is the menu design. Each displays a different child's drawing of the diner's tuxedoed mascot.

In case the connection wasn't made: families often include young children. This may seem obvious but it definitely sets the tone. My best guess would be that any time you eat here, you gamble hearing the shrieking of children. I was lucking enough to avoid this but it's not hard to imagine.

Still, I can't fault the place for it. The food is delicious. In classic diner style, they give you massive quantities of basic, really good breakfast food.

The breakfast burrito comes with my highest recommendations. It's a little greasy and a little too big. It's perfect diner food.

The doors open at 8am- a late start for most surfers but still a viable option for grabbing food before a day on the water. An added bonus: you avoid most of the Sesame Street crowd.

The Penguin Diner
105 Garfield Parkway
Bethany Beach, DE 19930

Turning Pages Book Lounge

Less than three miles from the Delaware shoreline, there's the perfect store to find your newest beach read.

Turning Pages Book Lounge opened this summer and offers a wide range of used books. I've always preferred used books for traveling- there's no pressure to keep them pristine, so a little sand in the binding can be overlooked.

The owner, a chatty visual arts teacher from the DC suburbs, also operates a retro toy store a few miles away and that's reflected in the products. A dozen ukuleles are displayed for sale, next to a sign for group lessons, and vintage records are tucked away in the back.

Overall, this is an amazing place for new reading material. Almost all paperbacks are $2.50 so it's easy try genres you might have otherwise shied away from. A few titles have special pricing via a sticker on the back but nothing outrageous. We walked away with five books for under $20.

Overall, Turning Pages is a fun place to go when you're open to finding something new. The store has the vibe of a scavenger hunt and you're almost guaranteed to find the perfect thing you didn't know you needed.

The store typically opens at noon each day and closes at 10pm.

Turning Pages Book Lounge
119 Atlanta Avenue
Millville, DE 19968

Masa 14: Brunch Edition

Brunch is a time-honored tradition in the District of Columbia. It's where friends get together to celebrate the weekend and plan the week ahead. 

Okay, that may be a bit much. But, at the very least, it's an excuse for preppy people to drink alcohol before noon. It was in pursuit of this noble quest that I found Masa 14.

Masa 14 is argueably my favorite place for weekend brunch in Washington. Which says something. I love breakfast food and champagne like Bostonians love the Red Sox and Ben Affleck.

What makes Masa 14 a standout?  For $40 on the weekend, you can enjoy unlimited drinks and food from 10am to 3pm.

No, I didn't make a typo. 

For those of you flinching at the price, I understand, Especially for college students, the cost can seem a little high upfront. But, in all honestly, everyone I know who has gone had more than $40 worth of drinks alone. This is definitely a place to come hungry.

The food served is all tapas so there's little more than a commercial break between when you order and when your food arrives. The menu is extensive and you're not limited to any one drink from their menu (feel free to collect them all).

Our favorites include the breakfast tacos and the Masa Mimosa, the house variant of the classic champagne and orange combo. They also make a very respectable Bloody Mary, for the breakfast crowd that wants to go completely savory.

Reservations are not required but I would recommend them. Especially if you have more than four people in your group or want to stay for the entire brunch run.

Masa 14 is also noted as one of DC's best rooftop eateries. Unfortunately, when we last went, it was 90°F and unbearably sunny. We elected to enjoy the air-conditioning but will definitely try again when the weather is more forgiving.

Masa 14
1825 14th St NW
Washington, DC 20009

Road Trip Essentials

1. EZ Pass
   The temptation of the open road can be wonderful but there's always a few things in real life that got glossed over in your daydream. Tolls are one example. Not only are the only accepted payment methods EZ Pass or cash (see below) but the cost is almost always higher than you think. EZ Pass transactions are cheaper than cash and typically take less time, so you don't have to wait in a seemingly endless line of cars. Each state distributes the passes differently- I liked to Maryland's page above.
2. Cash
   In a plastic world, it's easy to forget to carry a bit of cash with you. I'm the worst offender. Lose your EZ Pass? Tolls aren't going to be payable with credit. Find the perfect souvenir? Smaller vendors often stick to cash because of the credit transaction fees. You don't need to carry stacks on stacks. Two $20 bills typically cover the unexpected.
3. Phone Charger
   Whether you have an iPhone or an Android, you need a phone charger. Period. There's nothing worse than being without power, especially since I use my phone for everything. GPS? Check. Airbnb booking? On it. Actually using the phone function to call a tow truck in case of a flat tire? Yup. The list goes on but your battery won't. Always bring a phone charger (or two).
4. Portable Power Pack 
   Going along with the theme above- a charger is no good without a little power. I like the one I have because it fully charges my phone (iPhone 7) plus a little bit more. Important note: these are only helpful when they're juiced. Remember to charge your power pack alongside your phone and computer before you leave.
5. Sunglasses 
   There's a solid 25% chance that you'll be driving directly into the sunlight. Picturesque certainly, but also problematic for visability. I lose sunglasses constantly so it's never worth it for me to invest in expensive brand name glasses. I love this pair because they're 1) cute and 2) on sale. Affordable is best for when you get bored of them or lose them).
6. Water Bottle
   Nothing is ever fun if you're dehydrated. Even less so when you have to pay $3 for water (@ Voss). Personally, I like this bottle because it easily fits in the door compartment of my car. I like to reserve limited cupholder space for non-securable drinks, like Slurpees or... Slurpees.
7. A Reliable Backpack 
   Just because you're in a car doesn't mean you have to fill it up with stuff. I can usually carry all I need in a backpack. You can go with a super basic one (first link) but I'd recommend something a little more durable. I always have my laptop with me so my backpack has a padded computer sleeve as well. The front pouch is perfect for storing all of the items listed above, while leaving space in the main compartment for your other things.

Bonus: Backseat Bed
This is by no means a necessity but the idea is cool and it can be helpful to have in a pinch.
Essentially, it's an air mattress designed to fit the odd shape of a backseat. It turns a secondary space into usable room, should you need a quick nap or want to save money on accommodations. Warning: I'd only recommend use this for solo travel or with one other person that you're comfortable with. Actually, that's pretty much how I'd recommend travel in general. 

Barcey's Brooklyn

St. Nicholas Street in Brooklyn is home to plenty of strange sightings. Still, the most unassuming places can offer the best surprises. This is the case with Barcey's Cafe, at the corner of Stockholm Street.

Barcey's is the local king of the all-day brunch and it's easy to see why. The breakfast selection holds its own (I highly recommend the breakfast burrito).

Despite this, they offer an impressive selection of brews and cocktails. If you're coming later in the day (or refuse to let the clock dictate your selection), the menu boosts a nice selection of drinks to impress even the most bored hipster.

Craving kimchi wings? No problem. Want to try their Bulgogi Bun but don't want to leave your apartment/hotel? Barcey's delivers.

The food is as pretty as it is delicious, ideal for everyone from the hungover college student to your group's resident Food Instagramer™.

If you're dining in, Barcey's works best for small groups, as opposed to large parties. From what I've been told, there's not usually a wait but it can be difficult for the staff to accommodate parties over four (due to limited seating).

The restaurant closes at 7pm everyday so while this might not be the place for date night, it's perfect for brunch the next day.

Barcey's
140 St. Nicholas Street
Brooklyn, New York 11237

Road Trip Playlist

Road trips are a marathon, not a sprint. I recommend an eclectic musical mix to watch the world go by to. The kind of soundtrack that makes you nostalgic for a time that hasn't happened.

Throw this on shuffle and prepare for the drive.

This is by no means definitive but it's enough to get you across state lines. Drive safely.

Under the Big Top: Folklife Festival DC

The circus has come back to town. The Smithsonian's annual Folklife Festival is back and it's celebrating its 50th anniversary. 

The Washington Mall has come alive with exhibits, tents, and vendors, all dedicated to the history and art of circuses and their performers. Whether you're a local or visiting, the festival is a fun way to spend a day in the Nation's Capitol. 

At the end of the mall, a full circus tent is sent up for performances from troupes across the country. There are multiple shows scheduled for each day and all are free of charge. The venue has a high audience capacity (and air conditioning!) but try to get in line 15 minutes prior to the show's advertised start time. This will ensure you make the cut and get good seats.

When I attended, the UniverSoul Circus was under the big top. The troupe was created in 1994 as a space for performers of color and continues to have more diversity in the ring than most groups.

The lineup includes the standard fare of contortionists, aerial dancers and daredevils. These are classics for a reason and all of the performers are fascinating to watch. The clowns are modern and funny, instead of classic and terrifying. The coryphees bring traditional dances from across the globe and are fearless around fire (at one point, a handful of dancers limbo below flaming sticks dangerously close to the ground).

Whats more, this troupe has a "Ring Master's Pledge" that the children in attendance can take part in. It encourages them to be accepting of everyone, regardless of color or creed.

UniverSoul won't be returning this year but you can check out the other upcoming acts this weekend on the Smithsonian website. The festival is also promoting a Reunion Weekend on July 8th and 9th, as a celebration of the 50 year milestone.

There's tons of engaging activities for anyone who wants to try their hand at everything from juggling to clowning (an actual thing). Local acrobats-in-training demonstrate their skills and the "On the Move" exhibition explores migration in America in more than a dozen different mediums.

Overall, this is a great event for kids and families. It may not have much Insta-appeal for teenagers but it's a fun time for anyone who wants to see or try something new. 

The festival continues now through July 9th.

Milkboy Arthouse

If you ever think of College Park, Maryland, you likely associate it with the University of Maryland and a string of shitty bars and pizza joints.

It's a undoubtedly a college town and, until recently, it didn't try to live beyond that. Now, developers are actively working to make the area around Route 1 an affluent hipster paradise.

A more recent example of this shift is the Milkboy Arthouse. Milkboy was created as a public-private partnership between the city and the university to be a higher caliber eatery option with a performance space for local talent.

Of course, the average customer doesn't care much about the behind-the-scenes. It's all about food and ambiance.

The space itself is gorgeous. Graduate design students from UMD were called upon to choose everything from lighting to furniture. The facade of the restaurant is comprised of two clear garage doors, one on each level. It can be a little dark inside but when the weather is nice, the staff opens the doors and the entire restaurant gains the feel of an outdoor patio.

Unfortunately, I wasn't as impressed with the food.

At first glance, the menu showcased some promising, if limited, options. About half of the offerings were alcoholic, with a wide range of cocktails and artisanal beers. They were delicious but on the pricier side, so I'd recommend trying only one or two.

The staples of American bar food were prepared nicely. The french fries with the meal and the nachos we got as an appetizer were delicious. It was the entrees that fell a little flat.

I ordered the crab cake sandwich, which was a lot smaller than the bun it was served on implied. It was good but not what you'd expect from a restaurant in such a Maryland-identifying area.

It could have been worse, though. My friend chose their fried chicken sandwich. It wasn't cook properly and the inside was entirely raw. The wait staff was super apologetic and ended up comping her meal. Still, the meal as a whole didn't inspire a lot of confidence in the menu.

Milkboy has advertised itself as a space for musical performances, the bulk of which are scheduled to begin this fall.

If I see an interesting show, I would have no problem returning to Milkboy. Until then, I'll stick to the dozens of other eateries in the area.

Milkboy Arthouse
7416 Baltimore Ave
College Park, MD 20740

The Annapolis Bookstore

I love buying books. The siren call of Amazon.com is hard to ignore- they have almost every book imaginable and will deliver them to your door for free. As someone who both enjoys reading and is incredibly lazy, this speaks to me.

However, I love supporting physical bookstores more. So recently, I've been making an effort to only purchase my books from independent bookstores.

In this quest, I found the Annapolis Bookstore in downtown Annapolis, Maryland.

As soon as you enter the store, you can sense a pleasant chaotic energy. The store shares a space with a yarn/ knitting shop, which only enhances that feeling.

This is not the place to go to if you're looking for something specific. Annapolis Bookstore sells a combination of new and used books, though the latter certainly makes up the majority of the inventory.

Theoretically, there's an organizational system. Fiction is sorted by author's last name and there's a small section dedicated to books for St. John's College students, a school less than a mile away. Outside of that, all bets are off.

Books are piled on top of each other and stacked on the floor. I doubt even the owner is totally aware of what she has in stock.

Personally, I love it. It's like a scavenger hunt for the well-read, whether you're looking for a favorite author or something you've never heard of before.

The back of the store houses the collection of children's book and acts as a tiny refuge for kids to read. There's a chess set, a teddy bear, an old carousel horse and several chairs for reading and playing.

After a cursory glance, it looks like there's only piles of books. Upon further investigation, it becomes clear that the store also functions as a scavenger hunt for curious minds.

A plush Edgar Allan Por sits besides the fairy tales and Shakespeare. An oversized lion presides over the store from the top of the bookcases.

The Annapolis Bookstore is a bibliophile's paradise but an OCD sufferer's nightmare. It mirrors what a great book can do, inspiring stories from kids and reigniting imagination in adults. 

The Annapolis Bookstore
53 Maryland Ave.
Annapolis, MD 21401
http://www.annapolisbookstore.com

Airbnb Review: Karen's Bushwick Studio

It seems sacrilegious to go to Brooklyn and stay at a Hilton or Marriott. Similar to the concept of Woodstock having corporate sponsorship.

With that in mind, I booked an Airbnb this past weekend when I traveled to Bushwick. The neighborhood has a growing number of industrial spaces turned lofts. That's exactly what Karen's place offers.

The main takeaway: the apartment is adorable.

Imagine a carefully crafted studio, decorated with every hipster accoutrement you could think of. Decor included a deer bust made from subway maps, Pollock-esqe paintings on wooden boards, and a mini collection of old film cameras. Everything seems impossibly cool with a faded, clean industrial vibe.

From the outside, the building looked exactly like what it likely used to be- a warehouse. However, once you go in, the apartment feels incredibly homey.

It felt quintessentially Brooklyn. Case in point, I found the below photo (a vintage typewriter and a black and white framed photograph) laying in the hallway in the floor beneath me.

Karen set up an air mattress so we had use of two full beds. Even with a mattress in the middle of the living room, the studio never felt crowded. Granted, there was only two of us, but it could be very comfortable for groups up to four.

The only thing that felt small- the shower. Not surprising in the city but the rest of the apartment is so open, it comes as a small shock. Some hotels have extended shower curtain rods for more room. Imagine the opposite of that. I had no problem getting clean but all 5'9" of me did have to adjust accordingly.

This would be a great place for an extended stay. There's no in-apartment washer and dryer but directly next door is a 24 hour laundromat. It's moderately priced, considering the location. Want a hipster backdrop for your Insta photos? This is the place for you.

Karen's Bushwick Studio: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3792910

Wanna try it out? Use this link to get $40 off your reservation: http://bit.ly/2rIRzA0
(This is an affiliate link. When it's used, we both save. Cheers!)

Brooklyn Playlist

I'm heading up to Brooklyn this weekend, the hipster stepchild of the New York boroughs. In that spirit, I created a Brooklyn-inspired playlist for the drive from Fort Greene to Bushwick.

Did I miss a classic? Comment below.

Midtown in a Minute: Dinner and a Show in NYC

You can live in New York your entire life and not experience half of what the city has to offer. 

Yet I went off to Manhattan for less than 12 hours, looking to cram as much into my short adventure as possible.

I got tickets to see Brendon Urie's opening night in the Broadway musical 'Kinky Boots'.

I traveled by train to avoid the pitfalls of driving and, since I was in town, I decided to try out La Esquina, a taqueria with a new location in Midtown.

Know a place in one of the five boroughs that you can't wait to share? Leave recommendations for my next jaunt to New York in comments.

La Esquina Midtown

The craving for Mexican food can strike at any moment.

First instinct may cause you to lean towards the ubiquitous Chipotle. This may seem fine, except 1) almost all locations close by 10pm, 2) E. coli and 3) they don't actually serve Mexican food.

If you live in New York, let me offer an alternative: La Esquina.

The flagship location is in Soho but the restaurant has been branching out recently, including recent additions in the Upper East Side and Midtown.

I swung by the Midtown location following 'Kinky Boots', in search of a non-club food source.

When I went on a Friday night, the employees were in charge of the music and the vibe was chill. Think "Nighthawks" meets Tame Impala music (the latter of which was playing).

But is the food any good?

Most Mexican food centers around a few key ingredients and La Esquina uses them all well. You can get a lot of food for not a ton of money.

I ordered chips and guacamole, plus two tacos. The chips were freshly made and the guac was worth the extra cost. At first glance, their tacos may appear small. In actuality, they're the correct portion size. Taco Bell's servings have just got us accustomed to ungodly amounts of food.

As for drinks, don't expect cocktails. What La Esquina lacks in frilly drinks, they make up for with tequila. They carry almost every variation available north of the border.  From shots to margaritas,  your tequila cravings will be covered.

One thing I cannot overstate- the staff is awesome. Maybe I caught everyone on a great day or maybe it was my amazing personality. Okay, so definitely not the latter. But I went in on a Friday night. They technically closed at midnight but the staff let me hang around after they closed the doors.

One of the cashiers (who I won't name, on the off chance she could get in trouble) even gave me a shot of tequila as she was putting away the bar. Beyond that, she was a really fun person to talk to and had the vibe of that impossibly cool girl from high school that you wanted to be friends with. 

Good food, great people and a fun atmosphere. I highly recommend.

La Esquina
200 W 55th Street
New York, NY 10019

Guide to Decluttering

There's no doubt that owning fewer material possessions can make it easier to travel. You're less tempted to overpack and there's fewer things to tie you down at any specific place.

Obviously, the most effective method is to stop buying things. Yet I know as much as anyone that this is much easier said than done.

A great way to cut down on your clutter quickly is donating. Not only do you get a cleaner home, you get the opportunity to help out other people.

It can be tempting to donate clothing indiscriminately to thrift stores. I highly recommend an article by George Packer about what really happens to those donations.

Most of the groups listed are registered 501c3 organizations, so your donations are tax-deductible! You can check the status by clicking the links provided. 

Furniture

• A Wider Circle, based in Silver Spring, MD, accepts furniture donations of all kinds as long as they're in good condition. Depending on your location, they will pick-up donations for free.

Professional Attire

• Career Gear provides professional wear and guidance for men in poverty.
• Dress for Success collects business clothing for women and assist them in achieving finical independence.
• If you're in the DC area, Central Union Mission accepts donations of men's business attire so the homeless it serves have clothing for job interviews. If you're not local, there is likely a men's shelter in your area that has similar needs.

Shoes

• Share Your Soles and Soles 4 Souls collect shoes through mail-in donations and drop-off locations. Find the best method for you on their websites.

Purses

• Change Purse sells donated purses to fund anti-sex trafficking initiatives and help survivors, most of whom are teenagers.

Bras

• Free the Girls collects new and gently used bras to help survivors of human trafficking to provide for themselves. You can either mail donations or go to a designated drop-off site.

Jewelry

• Indigo Rescue resells jewelry donations to fund animals shelters and the caring for hard-to-place pets.

Glasses

• Donate your old eyewear and sunglasses to the Lions Club, which has locations and drop-off locations in towns across the country.

Prom Attire (Dresses and Suites)

• Becca's Closet and The Princess Project accept prom dresses of all sizes for distribution to girls who can't afford them.
• Operation Prom accepts both men's and women's prom attire. 

Bridesmaids' and Wedding Dresses

• Brides Across America distributes wedding dresses to the wives of servicemen and first responders free of charge.

Craft Supplies

• In the mist of your knitting phase? Mental Floss complied an excellent list of places who are looking for both knitters and yarn donations.
• Hearts for Arts creates thank you gifts for art teachers and promotes arts in schools. They're accepting a wide range of craft donations.

Books

• Children's books are always in high demand, since they can help combat illiteracy. Donating to local libraries is a popular option but make sure they actually want the books. Often, libraries are inundated with books and don't have room for that many physical donations.
• Manna Food Center in Gaithersburg, MD has a small collection of books that children can take from when their families come in for food. Many food distribution centers have similar set-ups.
• Better World Books is a huge organization that resells donated books and puts the money towards literacy programs and filling libraries.

Magazines

• Old magazines piling up? Reach out to your local school or arts center. Often, they can use the publications as art supplies.
• You can also check out Magazine Literacy, a group that distributes magazines as reading materials. It's definitely more efficient to find some place closer to home, though.

Personal Care Products

• Homeless shelters often provide hygiene products to their patrons, so donations are always appreciated. I usually collect the soaps and shampoos provided by hotels and donated them.
• Soldiers' Angels accepts toiletry donations for the care packages made for service men.
• Feminine hygiene products like tampons and pads are always needed. Contact your local human services program to donate locally. You can also reach out to Helping Women Period.

If you have charity recommendations that aren't listed above, feel free to leave them in comments.

Brendon Urie in "Kinky Boots"

On May 26th, Brendon Urie took the stage as Charlie Prince in the Broadway musical "Kinky Boots."

Urie is the lead singer for Panic at the Disco, one of my favorite bands, so I jumped at the chance to see his opening night.

"Kinky Boots" is a musical about a young man named Charlie, who is left in charge of a family shoe factory following his dad's death, and Lola, the one-of-a-kind drag queen who often acts as Charlie's muse.

The show, which opened in 2013, has been praised, largely for its contemporary score by Cyndi Lauper. I'd seen the show before and was excited to the part matched with Urie's vocal range.

The show was set to begin at 8pm. At 7:15, I happened to walk by the Al Hirschfeld theatre. I was met with a massive line, stretching around W 45th street to 8th Avenue, back to W 44th.

Much to my surprise, everyone was waiting for the show.

Mind you, the theatre has reserved seating. You get the same spot regardless of when you arrive.

I'm a huge fan of Urie and I understand the excitement. However, I instead utilized my time to get a box of cookies from Schmackary's, a favorite of mine when I'm in the city.

Audience, largely young and female, looked more prepared for Coachella than a broadway show. Think top knots, chokers, and velvet everything. I heard from the girls I spoke to that this was their first Broadway show. Kinky Boots was undoubtedly looking to reach new audiences and I'd say they succeeded.

When Urie first stepped out, I could only liken it to one other Broadway experience- when Lin-Manuel Miranda first steps out as Alexander Hamilton.

Truly, the noise level is hard to describe. In Hamilton, you genuinely miss a handful of lines because of the crowd's response. Fortunately, the timing of Charlie's arrival allows for an onstage pause, so the dialogue can resume when the decibel levels come down to normal.

The audience more closely that of a rock concert than of a theatre performance (understandably so). In a strange way, it reminded me of "The Fault in Our Stars,"

When I saw first saw that film, the theatre was almost entirely prepubescent girls and a few reluctant boyfriends.

Give that it was (simplistically stated) a cancer love story, it could be expect to jerk tears. Yet, I kid you not when I saw I was surrounded by hysteria. There were sobs coming from every direction, with such strength they almost sounded like laughter. Every on-screen reaction caused an audience reaction.

A similar sensation happened that night.

Urie spoke in a (surprisingly good) British accents, girls swooned. He sang his first note, hearts were broken. He appeared in the show's signature red heeled boots, everyone lost their minds.

Urie undoubtedly benefited from a very generous audience. 

He nailed the comedic timing of his dialogue and his charisma is still undeniable. Urie's a performer through and through.

However, I don't doubt that his performance would have been well-received had this not been the case. He has a (very) loyal following and they turned out in droves from his debut.

Ultimately, though, the show isn't about Charlie. That honor goes to J. Harrison Ghee's Lola and he did the character justice.

Initially, I had some concern that Ghee won't be show as much love, despite having the more complex role. Still, it didn't take more than a few bars of "Land of Lola" for the audience to get hooked. And realize the truth.

It's Lola's world. Urie, along with the rest of us, is just living in it.