Xclusive Summer'23 eNewsletter

Dear Valued Readers,

As the Summer is coming to a close we are pleased to bring you exciting news and updates on the various activations that happened this Summer throughout all 8 wards in our beloved city.

July was an extraordinary month filled with memorable moments and thrilling entertainment. We had a multitude of events lined up that catered to all age groups and interests. From free live music performances to film festivals, there was something fun for everyone.

One of the highlights of July was the much-anticipated Independence Day celebrations. We commemorated the birth of our great nation with music performances by the U.S. Air Force Band, Wale, Black Alley, Sirius Company and breathtaking fireworks that illuminated the skies over the National Mall.

In efforts to rediscover and reimagine DC, we partnered with Events DC and Broccoli City Festival to support local talent, Brent Faiyaz, Fat Trel, LARussel and Tre' Amani. Backyard Band, Uncalled For Band (UCB), Total Control Band (TCB) and other groups participated in a Battle of the Bands throughout the two days.

I encourage you to stay updated with all our events by subscribing to our newsletter and following our social media channels. Your participation and feedback are crucial in helping us improve and tailor our offerings to your preferences.

Come visit the mesmerizing city of Washington, D.C. and allow yourself to be captivated by its beauty and rich history. Step into a world where iconic monuments and memorials stand tall, telling stories of bravery and resilience. Reimagine the city through the eyes of its vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a unique blend of culture, art, and cuisine. Rediscover the Smithsonian museums, where knowledge and creativity converge to inspire and educate. Indulge in the city's diverse culinary scene, from traditional dishes to cutting-edge gastronomy. Whether you're wandering through Georgetown's enchanting streets or exploring downtown's bustling energy, D.C. is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart. So, pack your bags, embrace adventure, and let Washington, D.C. be the canvas on which you paint unforgettable memories.

We are in full steam ahead to kick off 202Creates Month and the 38th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards. STAY TUNED for updates on how to nominate your favorite creatives followed by the voting round.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to the entire team behind the scenes who work tirelessly to bring you these memorable experiences. Their dedication and passion for entertainment are evident in the quality of events we organize, and I am proud to work alongside such talented individuals.

Stay cool and stay updated!

Facebook: Entertain DC, DCRadioHD, 202Creates

Instagram: Entertain_DC, 202Creates, DCRadioHD, CreativeAffairsDC
Twitter: Entertain_DC, 202Creates

LaToya Foster, Director
DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment

202Creates Month

Come out for 202Creates Month Kick-Off on August 30th starting at 6pm at the Point DC in SW. The “Be Bold. Be Creative” celebration marks the beginning of our month-long festivities, dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent and diversity in the District. Be prepared to be amazed as you witness the bold creativity throughout that night from live performances, activations, prizes and more. RSVP to this free event that’s open to the public at www.202createsmonth.com

But that's not all! This Kick-Off celebration is just the beginning. We have an exciting lineup of events all September long during 202CREATES MONTH will inspire and captivate and celebrate.

Visit www.dcmayorsartsawards.com for the latest and for details on when to RSVP.

Mayor Muriel Boswer Presents

The 38th Annual Mayor's Arts Awards

Don't miss this opportunity to support and honor the creative forces that make DC unique. Following the call for nominations, the public will be able to cast their votes for your favorite DC creative starting on

Monday, August 28.

Vote Round Starting August 28,2023: www.dcmayorsartsawards.com

SAVE THE DATE Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents the 38th Annual Mayor’s Arts Awards on September 28, 2023.

#MayorsArtsAwards2023

AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS

NMAAHC's Celebrated 50 Years of Hip-Hop

Block Party on The National Mall

The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) hipped and hopped to celebrate the return of their Hip-Hop Block Party Saturday, August 12, 2023

The District's vibrant music scene, rich cultural diversity, and strong sense of community have fostered a unique hip hop culture that has influenced artists and audiences alike. From the pioneering work of go-go music and its fusion with hip-hop to the emergence of influential artists like Wale, Washington DC has contributed to the genre's growth and innovation. The city has served as a breeding ground for talented MCs, DJs, and producers, and its impact on hip hop should be celebrated during this milestone anniversary.

For more information: https://nmaahc.si.edu/events/nmaahc-hip-hop-block-party

Go-Go at the National Building Museum

Experience the Summer Block Party installation Look Here at the National Building Museum's Summer Block Party Late Nights!

August 10th was a Las Vegas-themed evening filled with blackjack, roulette, card games and more! The audience was in-theme and enjoyed DC’s very own Roaming Rooster and Lost Generation Brewing Company.

Click here to learn more

August 24th was a Go-Go themed evening with a performance by the celebrated D.C. band TOB. Food was available for purchase from food trucks and drinks will be available for purchase, including local brews from City State Brewing Co.

Click here to learn more

July HIGHLIGHTS

City SOCIAL

Broccoli City Festival

OCTFME and Events DC were excited to partner with Broccoli City Festival this year, especially for its very first time taking place in the summer! Attendees gathered at RFK stadium grounds in Black Anime theme and enjoyed exclusive performances, immersive experiences and unforgettable memories in the capital of cool, culture and creativity!

Included in the Line - Up, was DC's very own "Mayor of Culture & Creativity" Muriel Bowser who provided remarks, performances by Finesse 2 Tymes, Chloe Bailey, Coco Jones, Mariah the Scientist, Dess Dior, City Girls, Ice Spice, Keke Palmer, Rema, GloRilla, Kodak Black and welcomed home Backyard Band, TCB, UCB, Reaction Band, TOB, Sirius Company, Tre’ Amani, Larussel, Fat Trel and Brent Faiyaz across the two days of festivities.

Since 2013, the music festival has become synonymous with celebrating culture, promoting green and clean initiatives, and fostering social change. Each year, it attracts thousands of music enthusiasts, advocates for sustainability, and community leaders who come together to enjoy a day filled with incredible performances, impactful conversations, and immersive experiences.

The Battle of the Bands took over the city on stage Sunday. The sound of the free-flowing funk was a celebration of the official music and sound of Washington, DC.

For more information, visit https://www.bcfestival.com/

Broccoli City Festival Picture Collage

Photo Credit: Darrell Stoney & Marly

Capital Fringe Film Festival

Founded in 2006, Capital Fringe’s annual festival is the only unjuried, self-producing live performance festival in the Washington, DC area. Having presented 14 festivals featuring over 52,000 artists to an audience of 380,000 ticket buyers.

This Month, over 250 theater artists performed in 30 theater productions over eight days, July 11-17 and July 21- 24, 2023. From sketch comedy, standup, documentary theater, musical theater, to cabaret…the content runs deep. Themes included current world events, such as the climate crisis, motherhood, substance abuse, the pandemic, and more.

For more information: https://capitalfringe.org/

Nothing short of a miracle: Capital Fringe to return in July - DC Theater Arts

CNN and DCN

Televise the “First Ever”

4th of July in the District Concert

Mayor Muriel Bowser, the United States Air Force Band, Events DC, and the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment hosted the first-ever ‘Fourth of July in the District Concert’ featuring unforgettable performances by the U.S. Air Force Band, DC's own Wale, Black Alley, and Sirius Company. Set in the heart of downtown DC along Pennsylvania Ave NW, thousands of residents enjoyed the free celebration honoring our nation’s independence.

DCN broadcasted LIVE and featured the popular Go-Go performances of Sirius Band and Black Alley. CNN brought it home and captured the last half of the LIVE concert featuring the U.S. Air Force Band, Wale and the electrifying Fireworks display. DC knows how to party with a purpose. And 4th of July was an unforgettable celebration of patriotism, freedom and unity.

#July4thConcert #DCProud #StarsAndStripesForever

The 2023 41st Annual RAMMY Awards

Congratulations to the Winners & Honorees

Congratulations to the incredible 2023 RAMMY Award Winners and Honorees! And Kudos to Shawn Townsend, Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) President and CEO, along with the entire RAMW Team on an amazing night celebrating Washington, DC’s restaurant and bar scene…it was truly a night to remember!

From the News4's award show hosts Eun Yang and Jummy Olabanji to the engaging activations throughout the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, the thousands of beautiful residents and visitors who came out to pay tribute to the most deserving winners, the night was filled with all the right ingredients!

OCTFME is proud to have served as a “Ruby Sponsor!”

Photo credits: Interstellar Studios

https://districtfray.com/articles/2023-rammy-awards-photos/

https://dcist.com/story/23/07/10/rammy-awards-2023-winners-restaurant-awards-dc/

New Restaurant of the Year:

Causa/Amazonia

Cocktail Program of the Year:

Service Bar

Beer Program of the Year:

Shelter

Wine Program of the Year:

Reveler's Hour

Rising Culinary Star of the Year:

Marcelle Afram, Shababi Palestinian Rotisserie Chicken

*Favorite Gathering Place:

Tiki on 18th/The Game Sports Pub

*Best Brunch:

Urban Roast

*Best Bar:

Exiles

*Favorite Fast Bites:

RASA

*Hottest Sandwich Spot:

Compliments Only

Employee of the Year:

Nabil Moussa, Le Diplomate

Manager of the Year:

Brittany Dye, Circa Foggy Bottom

Service Program of the Year:

Lutèce

Casual Restaurant of the Year:

Pennyroyal Station

Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year:

L'Ardente

Pastry Chef or Baker of the Year:

Teresa Velazquez, Baked and Wired, A Baked Joint

Formal Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year:

Xiquet by Danny Lledó

Chef of the Year:

Kevin Tien, Moon Rabbit

Restaurateur of the Year:

Rose Previte, No White Plates: Compass Rose, Maydan, Kirby Club

Joan Hisaoka Allied Member of the Year:

Saval Foodservice

Duke Zeibert Capital Achievement Award:

Ris Lacoste, chef/owner of RIS Restaurant, for her excellence and community leadership

Anniversary of Go-Go Designation

As the official Music of DC

Follow the DC Creative Affairs Office on Instagram at @creativeaffairsdc to learn more about the District's support of the Go-Go community.

Women's History Made in Our Community and Beyond

Tap the images below for each woman's full biography. Follow us @entertainDC to learn more about the District's support of the creative community.

MURIEL BOWSER

MAYOR, WASHINGTON, DC

Muriel Bower is the Mayor of Washington DC. As DC’s Mayor, she is its chief executive and also functions as governor and county executive. Mayor Bowser became the first female two term mayor of Washington, DC and the first mayor to earn a second term in 16 years. Since taking office, the Mayor has taken bold steps to reset DC’s global and national competitiveness, speed up affordable housing production, diversify the DC economy, increase satisfaction in city services, and invest in programs and policies that allow more families to live and thrive in DC. Mayor Bowser has been a strong advocate of DC becoming the 51st State and its residents having full access to “our” nations democracy.

DR. LAQUANDRA S. NESBITT, MD

DIRECTOR, DC DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

Dr. Nesbitt currently serves as the Director of the DC Department of Health. Dr. Nesbitt is a board-certified family physician with over a decade of experience leading population health initiatives in governmental public health agencies. Under Mayor Bowser she is leading the District’s charge on crushing COVID -19 and keeping DC residents healthy. As a physician leader, Dr. Nesbitt mobilizes organizations and communities to implement innovative solutions that promote health and wellness, and achieve health equity. In addition to her role as Health Director, Dr. Nesbitt is a published author and served as an executive editor of Population Health: Management, Policy, and Technology.

ANGIE M. GATES

DIRECTOR, DC OFFICE OF CABLE TV, FILM & ENTERTAINMENT

Angie M. Gates serves as the Director of the DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment. In her role, she also serves as the DC Film Commissioner and leads the DC Creative Affairs Office. Emmy Award-winning Executive Producer Gates, made history when the District of Columbia Government won its first Emmy Award at the 60th Emmy Awards. She also led the efforts in the historic launch of DC Radio 96.3HD4. Gates plays a pivotal role in Mayor Muriel Bowser Presents 202Creates initiative which highlights, educates and promotes the diverse and vibrant creative community in the District of Columbia.

CATHY HUGHES

FOUNDER & CHAIRMAN, URBAN ONE, INC

Cathy Hughes is the Founder and Chairperson of Urban One, Inc. (formerly known as Radio One, Inc), the largest African-American owned and operated, broadcast company in the nation, Cathy Hughes’ unprecedented career has spawned a multi-media conglomerate that generates original content across the spectrums of radio, television and digital media. Her humble beginnings in Omaha, Nebraska, were not a deterrent to her success but rather part of the catalyst that fueled her ambition to empower African Americans with information and to tell stories from their perspective.

DJ HEAT

LIVE & ON-AIR PERSONALITY

The nation’s capitol has a hometown hero that spins, scratches and blends music while staunchly staying true to her roots. Known as the DJ for the Wizards and world-champion Mystics, this sonic savant went from working as a Mystics ball girl to entertaining the crowd at Capital One Arena 20 years after her first gig. She is also the creator of “The Rap Up Show” podcast and “My First Album” web series, all whilst promoting her new single “City Girls’” featuring Styme & Reece P.

ANDRENE M. TAYLOR

VISUAL STORYTELLER

Andrene is using visual storytelling to decolonize the African continent and liberate the diaspora. She says, "Africa and its diaspora, has had its story told for it. And, while there have been many advancements for the culture, and more Black visual storytellers are telling Black stories, there is still need for more." Currently, Andrene is working on a project in partnership with Kenyatta University, where she designed a hybrid online and in-person platform on creativity. The aim is to provide creatives with the space and time to hone their creative skills.

MELANIE A. ADAMS

DIRECTOR, SMITHSONIAN ANACOSTIA COMMUNITY MUSEUM

With more than 25 years of community engagement experience in museums and higher education, Melanie Adams is dedicated to bringing stakeholders together to address relevant community issues. After the museum shut its doors in March 2020, she worked with staff to create virtual programs and opportunities for people to share their experiences through the digital initiative Moments of Resilience. The museum staff quickly pivoted to place exhibits outside of its walls. The first exhibit, Men of Change: Taking it to the Streets, opened in the Deanwood community on February 1st to kick off Black History month. The second exhibit will open on the museum’s plaza in early April and focuses on food insecurity in the DC region.

Derek Gray

DC Public Library

"Thanks to the Go-Go community's 'Don't Mute DC' movement, the magnification of the voices of thousands of marginalized and displaced Washingtonians resulted in Go-Go being designated as DC's official music. As curator of the Go-Go Archive, the naming greatly motivates me to continue to work with the many 'griots' of Go-Go to ensure that this narrative is well-documented, preserved, and made accessible."

Cherie Mitchell-Agurs

Sweet Cherie

"Go-Go music being the official music of DC means so much to me. As a DC Native and a product of DC Public Schools (LaSalle Elementary, Bertie Backus JHS, Duke Ellington School of the Arts, and Howard University), I have listened to and loved Go-Go music my entire life. Believe it or not, I always thought that Go-Go was already DC's music, however, to have it "official" is very important and necessary for our culture."

Anwan "Big G" Glover

BackYard Band

"Go-Go being the official music of DC means that the music and sound of Go-Go will be around for the long haul as the city changes. There is a better sense of respect and feeling of something that is "OURS" as a native Washingtonian. In the words told [to] me by Chuck Brown 'Don't Let Our Music Die' and Go-Go being the official music of DC affords the opportunity to stay alive."

Porche' Anthony

Queen P

"Go-Go music being the official music of DC means so much to me because I represent the DC dance culture of beat ya feet. Go-Go belongs to chocolate city just like the style of beat ya feet. Making it official just stamps and promotes how we present culture nationally and internationally. It's the ownership for me. We as a culture own something that can't be taken away from us no matter how much the look of our city changes. 'WE rep DC, WE are DC, GO-GO music 4 Lyfe'"

ANDRE "White Boy" JoHnson

Rare Essence

"For Rare Essence, Go-Go music being the official music of DC is an incredible feeling. We are honored to be one of the founding bands and to have been a part of this scene since before it was called Go-Go. As a result the entire genre has been energized to develop and release new music and this will hopefully ensure that our "homegrown sound" will be around for at least another 50 years."

Cherita "Cookie" Whiting

Talent Management

"It means EVERYTHING. It means honoring Chuck's Legacy and nothing means more than that!"

Kato Hammond

Take Me Out To The Go-Go Magazine

“In a nutshell, Go-Go music being the official music of DC means to me that we as a culture and music are FINALLY and officially being recognized, accepted and celebrated as a staple and sound of Washington, D.C. It means that our history and contribution are just as important as anything else."

Kerrie Cotten Williams

DC Public Library

"The naming of Go-Go as the official music of Washington, D.C. speaks to the influence and importance of this locally grown and supported art form out of the Black DC cultural and social experience. Go-Go comes from a long tradition of musical genius that transforms and grows with each new generation of musicians."

Eric Coffen

Pure Elegance

"In my eyes and mind growing up [Go-Go music] was always DC music, it will never change."

Tahira Mahdi, Ph.D.

Author

"In the Go-Go tradition, recognition means so much. A shout out from the stage, knowing that everyone can identify your crew, or the satisfaction felt when someone from outside of the community can identify that go-go beat. This recognition of go-go as the official music of DC feels like the city is finally calling back a loving response to the gifts that Go-Go has been offering over the years. Official recognition ji' cranks."

Keith Clagon

DJ Flexx

"Not sure why it took so long[.] Go-Go has always been the heart beat of the city but I love it and [am] very proud[.] I just wish Chuck Brown was here to see it."

William "Malachai" Johns

Redds

"Go-Go music has been vilified and scapegoated for a good deal of the violence in the DMV for much of my life. It's great to have this validation for the positive impact Go-Go has made on the world through its musical and cultural contributions. "

Chef Kwame Onwuachi is The Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment's Inaugural DC Star

OCTFME will highlight the achievements of District of Columbia residents who exemplify excellence in the area of creativity, education, creative entrepreneurship, economic revitalization of creative businesses, social justice, or racial equity.

OCTFME is delighted to recognize Chef Kwame Onwuachi as the inaugural recipient of this distinction. Onwuachi trained at the Culinary Institute of America and opened five restaurants before turning thirty. A former Top Chef contestant, he has also been named one of Food & Wine’s Best New Chefs, and a 30 Under 30 honoree by both Zagat and Forbes. The incredible story of Kwame’s rise in the culinary world is chronicled in an inspiring memoir; about the intersection of race, fame, and food, “Notes from a Young Black Chef.” Chef Kwame will be part of Top Chef’s special new competition, when the show returns for Season 18 in 2021. Check out our 202Creates Masterclass with Onwuachi.

Congratulations Chef Kwame!

#KeepTheBeatGoing

The #EntertainDC Office has curated a special YouTube playlist of Go-Go hits from the 80s to present day that will be sure to have you busting loose. Tell us what you think on social media by using the hashtag #KeepTheBeatGoing

DC Radio 96.3HD4

April is Jazz Appreciation month. "From classic jazz to bebop to smooth and contemporary jazz, DC Radio will be airing special jazz episodes of it's jazz episodes of it's popular podcasts.

Backstage Beyond the Laughs hosted by Niki Moore airs Saturday mornings at Midnight. “Backstage Beyond the Laughs” piques the curiosity of everyone who has ever wondered what life is like for those famous funny folks “on or off” the road.

Wit & Reason with Dr. Alexis Moreno airs weekdays at 11:30am. The podcast provides smart and practical explanations for human behavior. Dr. Moreno interviews diverse health experts regarding today’s ever-evolving life and culture and asks questions on anything from love to hardships. Listen in and bring a little bit of positive mental health to your day.

The Cannabis Conversation Podcast airs weekdays at 2:30pm. The show is hosted by Linda Mercado Greene, who is the Board Chair and CEO of Anacostia Organics in Historic Anacostia, the first medical marijuana dispensary located east of the river.

Millennial Minds Podcast airs weekdays at 2pm and hosted by activist, model, preacher, and motivational speaker, Yasmine “YazzieSpeaks” Arrington as she sits down with artists, content creators, business owners, and community activists to get their stories.

Soul Wealth Radio hosted by Dr. Vikki Johnson airs weekdays at 10am. This show is an enlightening, insightful, 30-minute conversation with amazing people to help listeners nurture their own souls and live their best lives.

OPC Radio Connect airs weekdays at 7am and is hosted by Sandra Mattavous-Frye, Director of the Office of the People’s Counsel. The show tells listeners about the services and programs of the Office of the People’s Counsel for the District of Columbia, the independent DC government agency that represents the interests of electric, natural gas, water and local phone consumers.

The Woman Behind The Business is hosted by Angel Livas and airs weekdays at 9am. The show features unapologetically honest dialogues to advance women entrepreneurs (and aspiring entrepreneurs) to acquire strength, strategies, and success — the toolkit to sustainability.

Putumayo World Music Hour airs weekdays at 10pm and is hosted by Rosalie Howarth. The show takes listeners on a journey through the music of many different cultures. Shows include well-known names like Bob Marley, Sting, Loreena McKennitt, and Santana, along with exceptional, underexposed international artists.

Grits and Garri airs weekdays at 9pm and is hosted by Carolyn Malachi. The podcast features artist-on-artist interviews and live collaborations. It juxtaposes the work of African-American, African and Caribbean artists who create music in Washington, DC.

The District Creatives Radio Show hosted by Savvy Cherise airs weekdays at 3:30pm. The show provides a platform for creatives to share the work and content they provide in the city and for the city.

Champagne and Credit with Muriel Garr airs weekdays at 10:30am. The shows highlights pathways to the middle class and how do you get there. This podcast answers the question what are the tools you need to build wealth so you can enjoy that “champagne life.”

The Sonya Dunn Show airs weekdays at 1pm and brings news, information, and interviews from industry power players in entertainment, media, business, and technology.

Artimacy hosted by K. Charles aka Keanna Faircloth airs Saturdays and Sundays at 8pm. This podcast is truly where art and intimacy collide, providing an in-depth view of what inspires the artist to create.

The Sanctuary hosted by Wendi Cherry airs weekdays at 8am. “The Sanctuary” is an informational radio show for women of color. It inspires, educates, and empowers them to be their most authentic and healthy selves by tapping into the “goddess within.”

Listen Back – Creative Conversations with Ledisi airs Saturdays at 8am. Produced by Ron. T. Young and Ledisi Young, The Creative Conversations with Ledisi Podcast is a series of unpredictable conversations where creatives talk openly about life, their art and so much more.

Coming to America with Wayna and Friends airs Saturdays at 7am. This radio show and podcast features spirited discussions with a cast of African, Caribbean, and African American co-hosts and artists in the District.

Suffrage. Race. Power. (S.R.P.) airs weekdays at 7:30am. This show is an initiative launched by Black women that uniquely seeks to redefine suffrage beyond the singular act of voting. It aims to elevate Black and Brown women as a force for democratic change before, during and after Election Day. The first season is hosted by Denise Rolark Barnes.

Greater Washington, DC Black Restaurant Week

July 16-July 30

Black Restaurant Week presented its fourth annual campaign in the Greater Washington DC Region featuring Black-owned restaurants, food trucks, sweets, and more across Washington DC and surrounding Maryland and Virginia counties from July 16-July 30!

To stay connected on the next activation and for more information: https://blackrestaurantweeks.com/washington-dc-black-restaurant-week/

Have you visited Petworth Social Bar and Grill?

Ward 4’s Petworth Social Bar and Grill was OCTFME’s featured June Location of the Month (LOTM). The Black-Owned premier restaurant, craft cocktail bar, and event space is located in the heart of Petworth’s Historic Upper Northwest neighborhood. Besides delicious Cajun Creole Cuisine, the intricate location serves as a venue space for private events (birthday parties, team building, live performances).

SOCIAL: IG: @petworthsocialbarandgrill

WEB SITE: www.psbng20011.com

SPORTS CAPITAL

RFK Rediscovered

On July 27, 2023, at a #SportsCapital rally inside Nationals Park, Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the creation of a Sports

within the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) to plan, coordinate, and support professional and recreational sports in Washington, DC.

The DMPED Sports Team will work closely with the District’s professional teams and coordinate across District agencies and with Events DC to maintain, expand, and attract world-class sports teams and sporting events in Washington, DC.

Press Clips Below:

Comer introduces bill that could let D.C. turn RFK into Commanders home

New bill could turn RFK Stadium into Commanders new home

New legislation could turn former RFK stadium into new home for Commanders

MLS All Star Week

DC United hosted the MLS All-Star Game at Audi Field and kicked off celebrations for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, that included seven players from the Washington Spirit — four who represented the United States.

Learn about events that supported the MLS All-Star Game, including the celebration that took place on Saturday, July 15, HERE.

2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Cheer on the U.S. Women's National Team at a Washington Spirit watch party! Learn more HERE.

OCTFME IN THE NEWS

OCTFME and ESPAT TV & STUDIOS

Announce Landmark Development Partnership…

Variety Magazine

PARTNERSHIPS

ESPAT TV & Studios has partnered with Washington, D.C.’s Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment (OCTFME) to develop video game-themed programming, marking a first-of-its-kind government agreement. ESPAT and OCTFME will share a joint D.C.-based space at the former BET Studios.

“The dynamic partnership between OCTFME and ESPAT TV brings an unprecedented level of excitement to our DCE streaming network, providing diverse immersive media content opportunities,” said OCTFME director LaToya Foster in a statement. “We are investing in emerging industries partnerships, which include technology and gaming, that not only enhance the entertainment landscape of Washington, D.C., but also contribute to the growth of our local creative economy, which is critical to our mission.”

Cynopsis Media

PRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

ESPAT TV & Studios, producer of gaming-centric content, has reached an agreement with Washington DC’s Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment to develop gaming-influenced content for video game enthusiasts, originating from inside OCTFME studios.

Read the Full Press Release Here

OCTFME SERIES PREMIERES

Union is “The Ever First” OCTFME Original Scripted Series:

The Pilot debuted on July 14th featuring A-List Cast & Crew

Union Sitcom depicts the interaction between young and not-so-young Black folks whose most effective stress reliever is to meet regularly at the bar for camaraderie and encouragement along with some hot-button conversations about everything from business and politics to entertainment. They share their challenges, triumphs, heartaches, and joys; they flirt and joke a lot! Along the way, they create a sense of belonging that makes them not strangers, but a union.

Scan the QR code above to download the DCE Network or visit http://www.dcenetwork.com/

WUSA9 July 6, 2023 Clip

Photo Credits: Alyssa Splitt

Speak Out DC!

Watch the Powerful New Show on OCTFME That Creates a Platform for Youth Issues

Hosted by DC Youth Mayor Addison Rose, this groundbreaking new series amplifies the voices of young people who are determined to address pressing challenges that uniquely impact youth throughout all 8 wards within Washington, DC. Moreover, Speak Out DC aims to bring urgently needed perspective and demands for change to the forefront of public discourse. Community members, policymakers, and stakeholders are invited to the show to engage with our youth, listen to the voices of our youth, and to join in the collective effort to address the issues that impact our communities collectively.

Speak Out DC airs bi-weekly, providing a consistent platform for young voices to be heard. Tune in on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00pm ET on DKN (District Knowledge Network) and on Tuesdays and Fridays at 7:00pm ET on DCN (District of Columbia Network).

CREATIVE AFFAIRS

202Creates Co-Working Day

This month’s 202Creates Co-Working Day, July 25,2023 at MLK Library was another huge success! District creatives had the opportunity to meet, mingle, and discuss their various entrepreneurial projects and expand on ways to support each other.

Business Over Brand Summit

Hosted by the Creative Affairs Office (CAO), the annual Business Over Brand (BOB) Hybrid Summit was a five-day activation at the Mark Manhattan Laundry (U Street Corridor) and Focus Lounge (H Street NE) June 26-June 30, 2023. This year’s focus on creativity, entrepreneurship and moving beyond the hustle provided attendees with key tools needed to advance beyond the 21st century. CAO presented the 4th annual celebration with an array of creative activations, events, and panels for the advancement of creatives in the District.

BOB’s mission is to improve access to actionable information, education and support for the District’s creatives to better understand their why, build their business, and grow their brand. BOB included panels, masterclasses, and entertainment with musical performances such as “An Ode to 50 years of Hip Hop” by Noochie, and R&B sounds by Kenny Sway.

Special thanks to Branding gurus Layla Nielsen and Natarsha Wright;

LeGreg Harrison, owner of The Museum and founder of Future Moguls;

Aba Kwawu; Andre “Dre The Mayor” Hopson; Eric “EZ” Tommy;

Julius Foster; publicist Mercy Chikowore; Fana Haile, celebrity style advisor

and Jerome Lewis; Jerome Lewis Them2us founder.

Metro Moments

WMATA, OCTFME and the Downtown DC Bid kicked off the summer cultural performance series that began on July 26th featuring Alchemy Performing Arts, a local dance troupe, at the Gallery Place Chinatown Metro Station.

Throughout the remainder of the summer, DC’s Metro Moments series gives residents and visitors the opportunity to explore the art of dance, music and more at various DC Metro Stations. We invite you to REDISCOVER the charm of downtown DC and countdown to 202Creates Month in September.

CONGRATULATIONS!

10-year-old professional photographer takes pics of Hoda & Jenna

Hoda and Jenna sat down with Mayor Arts Award recipient for Youth Creativity, Myles Minishotta, a 10-year-old self-taught photographer from the DMV who turned his passion for photography into a career at a young age. He's has shot celebrities and red-carpet events like New York Fashion Week, but also loves taking pictures of nature. “There is just so much stuff out here that’s amazing, and I am looking for all of that stuff,” Minishotta said.

Click here to watch

2023 Summer Filmmakers & Locations of the Month

SEBASTIAN LUIS VIZCARRA

The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Sebastian Luis Vizcarra as the OCTFME July 2023 Filmmaker of the Month (FOTM).

"It's an honor to be recognized in the city that gave me so much of my cultural influence as an artist. I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported my creative journey with encouragement and appreciation."

Film Credits:

Napolitan Award - Spot del Año por una Causa/Org

Multiple Ads on Broadcast Television

Music Videos for musical artists like J Scienide, Yaddiya and Bou

Photos featured in multiple online outlets

Press Release:

https://entertainment.dc.gov/release/fotm-july-2023

Relevant Websites:

www.spaceboy-media.com

www.silverdistrictproductions.com

Social Media:

IG: @space_boy_media

AMY ODEN

The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize AMY ODEN as the OCTFME August 2023 Filmmaker of the Month (FOTM).

“This is a great boost to my career as an independent and queer-focused media maker in DC, being recognized as OCTFME's August Filmmaker of the Month - I am a mid-career professional, aiming to make strides for the visibility of my community in the area, and across the country,” says Amy.

Film Credits:

Lipstick and Leather: Documentary short, funded by Culhanimal Productions. Distributed on PBS’s Reel South.

Calasag: Documentary short, fiscally sponsored by the Independent Documentary Association

Exotic: Feature documentary, funded through Kickstarter. Available on Amazon Prime and through Action! Library Media.

From the Back of the Room: Feature documentary. Included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Available through MVD.

CORTINA PRODUCTIONS; MCLEAN, VA

Managed production and content of mobile multimedia projects for a United States Presidential Library. Supervised staff (3).

THE COSTA REPORT; NEW YORK, NY

Booked high-profile guests, including Reverend Jesse Jackson, Louis Farrakhan, and T. Boone Pickens, for a radio show.

Press Release:

https://entertainment.dc.gov/release/lotm-august-2023

Relevant Websites:

www.filmsbyamyoden.com

Social Media:

IG: @filmsbyamyoden

OPEN DOOR CONCEPT

The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize Open Door Concept as the OCTFME July 2023 Location of the Month (LOTM).

“Open Door Concept was created for others to use as a place to tell, create, and share stories through video, photography and other forms of creative artistry”, says Owner & Founder Jasmine Smith

Film Friendly:

Yes

Film Credit(s):

Hulu - Cannot share until the release

Because of Them We Can

Nia Dinero (Documentary)

Press Release:

https://entertainment.dc.gov/release/lotm-july-2023

Social Media Handles:

Instagram: @opendoorconcept

Relevant Websites:

www.opendoorconcept.com/opendoorrentals

PENN SOCIAL

The #EntertainDC Office is pleased to recognize PENN SOCIAL as the OCTFME August 2023 Location of the Month (LOTM).

“We are honored to be featured as the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment August location of the month. Penn Social has been a film location in the past and is excited to provide a location for media productions in the future,” says General Manager Robert Hess.

Film Friendly:

Yes

Film Credit(s):

Brew Talks CBC 2017 (Live Stream)

B1G Live Satellite Broadcast - 2017

48 Hour Film Festival - Several Occasions

Bulwark Podcast in 2022 and (Multi-track audio recording)

Story District in 2022 and 2023 (Line out for Cameras)

Split Zone Duo in 2023 for multi-track audio recording w/live audience

Press Release:

https://entertainment.dc.gov/release/lotm-august-2023

Social Media Handles:

Twitter and Instagram: @PennSocialDC

Facebook: facebook.com/PennSocialDC

Relevant Websites:

Websites: https://www.pennsocialdc.com/.com

SAVE THE DATES

2023 DC JazzFest on

Labor Day Weekend!

DC JazzFest celebrates all things jazz over Labor Day weekend with a star-studded lineup on multiple outdoor stages - August 30 - September 3, 2023.

Visit dcjazzfest.org for more info!

Art All Night!

09/29-09/30

DC’s free overnight arts festival is back!

DC Art All Night will occur from 7:00 PM to 3:00 AM the following morning on two nights, September 29 and 30.

Stay tuned for more information here

BRING A FRIEND, STAY OUT LATE!

The World Cultural Festival

The World Culture Festival is coming to the National Mall in Washington DC. Renew, groove, dance, sing, and connect with millions of people who long for more unity and less division.

RSVP for your free pass here: World Culture Festival 2023 Registration (artofliving.org)

DID YOU KNOW?

OCTFME CREATIVE ECONOMY & GO-GO MUSIC PROGRAMMING SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Are you interested in submitting a sponsorship opportunity inquiry to OCTFME for consideration? If your organization is planning or hosting a DC-based creative event, festival, media education opportunity, or a program that supports the Go-Go Music industry in the District, OCTFME would love to hear about it!

If you would like to learn more about how OCTFME might be able to support or help promote your creative event or program, please click here for information on the Go-Go Sponsorship Fund, the application process and how to apply.

District of Columbia Network (DCN)

In honor of Black History Month, DCN presents special programs that aim to educate, inspire and entertain viewers by telling stories. Some stories are familiar, some are not, and others are well known. What they all share is a celebration of the vivid past, the vibrant present and the rich culture that is Black history. This very special slate of programs will begin airing on Monday, February 1 through the end of the month, weeknights from 7pm to 11pm and weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from 12pm until 12am on DCN.

Incredible Gospel Artists from all over the #DMV gathered in Studio A to celebrate Black History Month through song. Black History is everyday!

DC Black Pride takes a look back at the response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the black gay community in the District. This special also offers an insightful look at the struggles and the triumphs still affecting the city black LGBTQ Community.

This television special is an intimate portrait of the life of Barack Obama that details his early life in Hawaii and Harvard as well as his meteoric rise in politics culminating with his historic victory in the 2008 Presidential election and his inauguration.

The documentary film, "A Legacy of Mies and King," follows architect Francine Houben as she investigates the past and present in order to design a world-class library of the future. Francine delves into the archives, meets contemporaries of Mies and King, speaks to current visitors of the library, and participates in a Martin Luther King Jr. Day march.

MLK: The Making of a Holiday profiles Dr. King’s life and the Civil Rights Movement. It contains Dr. King’s moving speeches, musical tributes to him and remembrances from those who knew him. The program contains footage of his memorial and contemporary celebrity tributes.

James Brown – The Man The Music explores the illustrious career of who many call the Godfather of Soul. This special takes you on a journey which illustrates the faith, dignity, integrity and soul contained in the music he created.

The Million Man March Story chronicles the journey of the men that gathered at the United States capital for a day of atonement and reconciliation on October 16th 1995.