EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | APRIL 2012 | CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 08.............Go See Do
10.............East of the River Calendar 18.............Celebrating Emancipation Day • by G. Derek Musgrove 20.............The Bulletin Board 24.............District Beat • by Martin Austermuhle 26.............The Numbers • by Elissa Silverman 28.............Anacostia in the Spotlight • by Dana Bell 31.............Dennis N. Logan • by Michelle Phipps-Evans 32.............Reservation 13 • by Emily Clark 34.............United Medical Center • by Candace Y.A. Montague
EAST WASHINGTON LIFE
36.............Dispatches from Anacostia • by Phillip Hutinet
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38.............Healthy Corners • by Candace Y.A. Montague 40.............Jazz Avenues • by Steve Monroe 41.............Anacostia River Jazz Festival • by John Muller
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KIDS & FAMILY
42.............Kids and Family Notebook • by Kathleen Donner 48.............ReSET Generates Greater Interest • by Stephen Lilienthal
HOMES & GARDENS
50.............Changing Hands • compiled by Don Denton 52.............The Classifieds
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54.............The Nose • by Anonymous
ON THE COVER:
Oil on Canvas, 20x24”, “Kissed by a painted lady” By Jerome T. White
Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Jerome T. White developed an interest in art as a child. He later studied art at Tuskegee University, in Alabama, and completed his Bachelor’s of Art degree in Studio Art, at Baldwin-Wallace College, in Berea, Ohio, in 1992. You can view Jerome’s artwork at www.Jeromesartroom.com.
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KIDS & FAMILY
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GO.SEE.DO. Washington National Cathedral Flower Mart
Every year, on the first May weekend, the Cathedral shines and the welcome mat is out. On Friday, May 4, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 5, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (rain or shine); hear live music, see puppet shows, enjoy kids games and rides, tour the garden, eat, shop the antique/collectible booths, climb the tower and ride the antique carousel. Washington National Cathedral at the intersection of Wisconsin and Massachusetts avenues, NW. 202-5376200. nationalcathedral.org Climb the tower at the flower Mart for one of the best views of Washington. Photo: Courtesy of Washington national Cathedral
LUMEN8Anacostia
LUMEN8Anacostia inaugurates a series of creative spaces in the commercial corridor of Historic Anacostia from noon to midnight Saturday, April 14. The corridor comes alive with illuminated storefronts, landmarks and murals. Creative spaces from Good Hope Road up Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue will showcase the works of local fine artists, artisans and creative entrepreneurs. The festival will include performances by visual artists, dancers and actors throughout the day and into the night. While April 14 is the inaugural opening of many of the Arts and Culture Temporiums, many of these storefronts will continue to operate through May and June. lumen8anacostia.com Mamas Kitchen art at luMEn8anacostia
Fire & Ice: Hindenburg and Titanic
This innovative new exhibit brings together two marvels of transportation. Titanic and Hindenburg served demands for rapid worldwide communication and transportation. Both operated as the world’s largest mobile post offices. Each in its day promised the fastest possible worldwide mail service. Each offered onboard gentility and opulence. Each met a tragic end. National Postal Museum, 2 Massachusetts Ave. NE. 202-633-5555. postalmuseum.si.edu/fireandice. Titanic leaves Southampton, England, April 10, 1912. The last mooring line connecting Titanic to land is cast off. Photo: Courtesy of National Museums Northern Ireland
Take Yourself Out to the Ball Game
The food’s expensive but you can get in for as little as $5 (day-of, grandstand seating). It’s a great carnival atmosphere, National’s Park must be experienced and most people reading this can walk there. Opening day is April 12 at 1:05 p.m. against the Cincinnati Reds. Go to stubhub. com for overpriced tickets. Other Nats games coming up are on April 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and May 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Bring your dog with you on April 21. Nationals Park. 202-675-6287. washington.nationals.mlb.com Pitcher Drew Storen. Photo: Courtesy of the Washington Nationals
WineFest at St. Michaels
WineFest at St. Michaels is a unique festival for wine lovers. Instead of going to a wide open field or getting jammed into a single tent, WineFest at St. Michaels is a streetscape event with wine tastings at many beautiful venues thoughout town. There will also be many different dining, shopping and lodging options. Over 300 wines will be poured and available for purchase. WineFest at St. Michaels benefits local charities including the St. Michaels Food Bank, the St. Michaels Community Center, Benedictine School and Project Healing Waters. Apr 2829, noon-5:00 p.m. Saturday ticket, $60. Sunday ticket, $40. $75 for both days. Discount for early purchase. St. Micheals, Maryland is about 80 miles from DC. winefestatstmichaels.com Courtesy of WineFest at St. Michaels
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CALENDAR
Smithsonian Gardens celebrates National Public Gardens Day on Friday May 11 and Saturday May 12 with its sixth annual Garden Fest.
Let’s Move! with Smithsonian Gardens.
May 11-12. Join Smithsonian horticulturalists as they share their extensive gardening knowledge through fun, hands-on demonstrations and familyfriendly activities. Visitors can participate in a wide variety of free activities highlighting the theme “Gardening for Healthy Living” including proper tree planting techniques, tips on growing organic vegetables and healthy lawn care to getting fit with yoga demonstrations. Music, roaming storytellers and dancing add zip and zing to the event. Enid A. Haupt Garden, behind the Smithsonian Castle, 1000 Jefferson Dr. SW. gardens.si.edu
DC EMANCIPATION An Act for the Release of Certain Persons from Service or Labor in the District of Columbia (D.C. Emancipation Act), April 16, 1862. DC Emancipation Act ending slavery in DC nine months before the Emancipation Proclamation is on display now in the US Capitol Visitor Center Exhibition Hall. The Constitution grants Congress exclusive authority over the District of Columbia. As the Civil War continued, Congress used this power to end slavery in Washington, DC. On April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed an act for the immediate release of the approximately 3,000 enslaved persons in DC, nine months before the Emancipation Proclamation. Today, Washington, DC celebrates April 16 as Emancipation Day. visitthecapitol.gov Civil War Encampment. Apr 14, 10:00 AM3:00 PM. An interactive experience of a Civil War camp with a tour on the grounds of the Tudor
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Place that includes featured interpreters dressed in costumes portraying Union and Confederate soldiers, enslaved workers, Union artillery units, and a discussion about the daily encounters of Civil War camp life in the District of Columbia. Discussions of the roles of African Americans, Confederate and Union soldiers, and Washingtonians in Civil War era history will be included in the tours and other events related to Civil War camps. Tudor Place Historic House and Garden, 1644 31st St. NW. 202-965-0400 DC Emancipation Day at President Lincoln’s Cottage. Apr 15, 2:30-4:30 PM. Join them at President Lincoln’s Cottage for a program commemorating DC Emancipation Day, featuring Lincoln scholars and music on the south lawn of the Cottage. Located on the Armed Forces Retirement Home campus in northwest DC. 202829-0436. lincolncottage.org Mayor’s Emancipation Day Program. Apr 16, 9:00-10:30 AM. Panelists will discuss the arguments for and against slavery, abolition, and emancipation in the District of Columbia and | APRIL 2012
compare the nexus between the struggle for emancipation and the struggle for full congressional representation, statehood, and selfdetermination in the District of Columbia. The panelists will consist of historians, scholars, researchers, activists, and prominent figures in the fight for home rule and self-determination. African American Civil War Memorial and Museum, 1925 Vermont Ave. NW. 202-667-2667 Free in DC Competitive Scavenger Hunt. Apr 16. Free in DC: Celebrating 150 Years of Emancipation challenges participants to see sites of slavery and freedom. It takes contestants to 11 sites around the city where they must complete challenges to rack up points for a chance to win prizes. The 30 competitors with the highest scores by the end of Apr 16 will receive gift bags courtesy of President Lincoln’s Cottage and be entered into a drawing for the grand prize: a two-night stay at the Willard InterContinental Washington Hotel. Winner of the grand prize must be at least 18. The citywide hunt will take most participants four hours to complete. Complete downloading instructions are available at
CulturalTourismDC.org. The Struggle for Freedom, Liberty, Justice, and Equality. Apr 18, 6:00-8:00 PM. The panelists will focus on slavery, abolition, and emancipation in the District of Columbia, and Senator Henry Wilson, the author of the District of Columbia Compensated Emancipation Act that freed the 3,100 enslaved persons in the Nation’s Capital. The panelists will also discuss colonizationNational Archives after emancipation, Lincoln in the movement for black resettlement; emancipation, patriotism, and African-American service in the Civil War; and the globalization of cheap labor markets in Africa after the abolition of slavery. National Archives, 700 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202-357-5053. archives.gov Slavery by Another Name. Apr 19, 6:00-8:00 PM. The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation will commemorate the District of Columbia Sesquicentennial Emancipation Day Celebration with the documentary, Slavery by Another Name, followed by a questions and answers session with some of the guests featured in the
Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc., (FSFSC)
13th Annual Business Meeting & Family Community Conference
Saturday, April 21, 2012 from 9 am to 4pm; A. Kiger Savoy Elementary School – 2400 Shannon Place SE, WDC 20020 • Families, children, adults, teens, professionals… come and enjoy free, entertainment and fun for the whole family! • Let’s discuss & explore powerful topics for Ward 8 like TANF Laws and Changes and Care for the elderly.
• Win the Wii and PS3 Madden Tournaments, enjoy fun activities for children. • Opportunity to network to no end with over 50 vendors!
• Entertainment entrepreunuership for our youth and more.
• Special guest entertainment and free lunch for everyone.
• You can obtain continuing education units for college credits, snacks and nutritional lunch.
• On the Green Line, Anacostia Station... And it’s FREE!!!
For More Information Contact:
Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. 2041 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, SE Suite 304 Washington, DC 20020 • Phone 202-889-1425 Fax 202-889-2213 • www.fsfsc.org
Try our Gourmet Cream Style Corn!
“Better Tasting than Corn on the Cob!”
100% All Natural Sweet Corn No Added Sugar, Additives, Coloring, or Preservatives! Now Available @ Marvelous Market of Capitol Hill • 303 7th St SE Questions? Email us at ggsweetcorn@comcast.net CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 11
CALENDAR Emancipation Day with a musical rendition of jazz, poetry, and prose to commemorate legacy of those who labored in the struggle for freedom, liberty, justice and equality. Masonic Temple, 1000 U Street, NW, Ballroom
SPECIAL EVENTS America’s Islamic Heritage Museum & Cultural Center 1st Year Anniversary. Apr 15, noon-5:00 PM. Open house with Anacostia story film and discussion. 2315 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. 202-610-0586. muslimsinamerica.org
Congressman John Lewis
A Conversation with Civil Rights Icon John Lewis.
Apr 19, 6:00-9:00 PM (reception 6:00-7:00 PM). The Washington Informer presents “A Conversation with Civil Rights Icon and Congressman John Lewis.” Congressman Lewis will discuss his involvement in the civil rights movement of the 1950s and ‘60s, its relevance to present day and where we are now as a culture. The event will also feature a showing of the short documentary, “John Lewis – An American Hero,” a discussion between Denise Rolark Barnes and Congressman Lewis, and presentation of the Washington Informer Humanitarian Award. Free. To RSVP, e-mail rsvp@washingtoninformer.com. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
documentary. Guests invited to participate in the program include Ambassador George Haley. Sumner School, 1201 17th St. NW. Emancipation Day with Congressman John Lewis. Apr 24, 7:00 PM. This forum will consist of a dialogue with Congressman John Lewis and his role in the Civil Rights Movement and the struggle for freedom, liberty, equality, and justice. The Congressman will discuss Bloody Sunday during the march from Selma to Montgomery; Civil Rights marches throughout the South; the role of the Student Non-Violence Coordinating Committee in the Civil Rights Movement; and the 1963 March on Washington where he was the youngest speaker at the Lincoln Memorial with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he gave his famous I Have a Dream speech. Rayburn House Office Building, Room B-357. 202226-4674 A Celebration of Emancipation Day with Jazz, Poetry, and Prose. Apr 28, 7:00-11:00 PM. The Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge, Jurisdiction of the District of Columbia, Inc. celebrates
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Genealogy Fair-Branching Out, Exploring Your Family Tree. Apr 18-19. This two-day program showcases how to use Federal records in family history research for experienced professionals and novices alike. Speakers and exhibitors include National Archives staff, historians, and genealogy professionals. Reservations are not required. Free. National Archives, Pennsylvania Avenue Plaza of the National Archives Building. archives.gov Whitman-Walker Health’s 19th Annual Spring Affair. Apr 19, 6:30 PM. Whitman-Walker Health will present the annual Partner for Life award to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius at the event. Gwen Ifill, moderator and managing editor of “Washington Week” and senior correspondent for the “PBS NewsHour,” will emcee the event. The spring affair, raises funds for Whitman-Walker’s array of health care services for both HIV and non-HIV patients. Carnegie Institution for Science, 1530 P St. NW. For more info, contact David Mallory at 202-7973510. Earth Day Open House at the Botanic Garden. Apr 20, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov
Celebrate Arbor Day! at the Botanic Garden. Apr 27, 10:30 AM-1:00 PM. Lecture and Tour Celebrate Arbor Day! Melanie Choukas-Bradley, Author of City of Trees Celebrate Arbor Day in the “City of Trees” with a slide presentation followed by a stroll through the National Garden’s Regional Garden. Register online. 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov Urban Sustainability Action Summit. Apr 2729. This year’s theme is Food and Water: Sustainable Waste Reclamation. This timely event will bring together experts, grassroots leaders and members of the community to listen, learn and exchange ideas. Workshops and demonstrations at UDC’s Muirkirk Farm will model sustainability methods and provide attendees with hands-on, practical experience. dreamingoutloud.net Inaugural Running of the Chihauhaus. May 5 (rain date, May 12), 11:00 AM-2:00 PM. Chihuahua and Chihuahua mixes are welcome to race. All breed contests to include best outfit, best trick, owner look-a-like and funniest pair. $500 in cash prizes. All dogs will receive an official race packet and must be current on vaccinations | APRIL 2012
and leashed when not racing. Unruly dogs will be excused and owners must pick up after their pets. Event features music, food, water and beverages served. $20 registration fee to race with all fees being donated to Paws Southwest. The goal is to help the Paws for Southwest group raise money for the building of a dog park in the Southwest neighborhood and to celebrate Cinco De Mayo in a unique/silly way. Sign up at ontaponline.com/race. Event at 7th Street Landing Park with after party at Cantina Marina.
known for taking songs and transforming them to new directions by constantly pushing each member’s musical abilities in live performances. The band consists of Dennis Turner on bass, Sam Prather on piano, Robert “BJ” Simmons on the saxophone, and Marcus Jackson on drums. Come enjoy another Friday night of incredible jazz! $20. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202889-5901. thearcdc.org
DC101 Chili Cook-Off. May 12, 11:00 AM. True to its name, the Chili Cook-Off features an intense competition between 101 chili cooks in four categories: Red Chili, Green Chili, Freestyle, and Salsa. Also performing is Cake, The Airborne Toxic Event, Angels & Airwaves, Awolnation, Neon Trees, Civil Twilight and Twin Atlantic. $35 ($60 day-of). RFK Stadium.
Anacostia River and Jazz Festival. Apr 28, noon-5:00 PM. An afternoon of live Jazz on 2 stages. Featuring: The Boys and Girls Club Steel Band, Brazilian Jazz Band, Origem, Jazz Tales and Traditions with Victor Provost, Tony Small and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington Teen Arts Performance Troupe, Jazz harmonicast, Frédéric Yonnet & Marcus Johnson. Anacostia Park on Anacostia Drive near the Skating Pavilion. 202-426-9365
MUSIC AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
An Afternoon of Steelpan Jazz. Apr 28, 1:00 PM. DC’s East of the River Police Boys and Girls Steelband appears in concert. Capitol View Neighborhood Library, 5001 Central Ave. SE. 202-645-0755. dclibrary.org/capitolview
This is My Story, This is My Song Workshop. Apr 14, 1:00-2:30 PM. Keith Childress, songwriter and vocalist, leads this workshop on how to create a song by presenting the various components of songwriting. Lyrics are the words that tell the story, convey the emotion, and communicate the information from the writer to the listener. Childress, whose songs include “We Lift You Up” and “The Road to Change,” will also share his experiences as a songwriter, recalling the highs and the lows of the creative process. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia. si.edu Michael Bowie Quartet at Shepherd Park. Apr 14, 2:00-4:00 PM. An afternoon of Jazz at in the park featuring Michael Bowie and elite student musicians from around DC. Shepherd Park at the intersection of MLK & Malcolm X Avenues in Congress Heights. 202-426-5961 Sine Qua Non featuring Michael Bowie. Apr 15, 1:00-3:00 PM. Outdoor show from the porch at Cedar Hill featuring a mix of jazz and spirituals to accompany spoken word poetry, the words of Frederick Douglass and other Black leaders. Frederick Douglass NHS, 1411 W St. SE. 202426-5961 An Evening of Spoken Word to Jazz. Apr 18, 6:30 PM. DC Metropolitan area’s very own Darlene Brown appears live. Capitol View Neighborhood Library, 5001 Central Ave. SE. 202-6450755. dclibrary.org/capitolview A Saturday Jazz Afternoon with Lea and Friends. Apr 21, 2:00 PM. Come out for an afternoon of music featuring the group, Lea and Friends. Capitol View Neighborhood Library, 5001 Central Ave. SE. 202-645-0755. dclibrary. org/capitolview An Evening of Jazz Music. Apr 25, 6:30 PM. Come out to hear the band Music at the Met play an assortment of memorable jazz songs. Capitol View Neighborhood Library, 5001 Central Ave. SE. 202-645-0755. dclibrary.org/capitolview Double Time Jazz featuring Distinction at THEARC. Apr 27, 8:00 PM. THEARC Theater presents an evening with Distinction, a quartet
THEATER AND FILM What’s Your Story? Apr 22, 2:00-4:00 PM. Immerse yourself in this participatory story/ theatre performance by Sugarfoots, Barbara El Wilson’s doll and theatrical company. This is a highly entertaining presentation celebrating black history through folklore. For reservations, call 202-633-4866. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu Thomas Mobley Talks Filmmaking. Apr 26, 7:00 PM. Emerging filmmaker Thomas Mobley, contributor to the CreativeJunkFood installation Conversations in the Contemporary, now on view at ACM, provides insight into the filmmaking process, its concepts, and some of its fundamentals. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu Grandma’s Cautionary Tales. May 12, 2:00-3:30 PM. Grandma Sally Kathryn Mims tells an entertaining mix of ghost, folk, and cautionary tales found in African, African American, and Caribbean literature. Grandma Mims tells ghost stories just for scary fun and the folk and cautionary tales that helped her learn how to think before acting and to listen to parents. The stories promise to engage you in an entertaining and interactive manner. The program ends by reinforcing the adage that children can use positive thinking and action to overcome a bad situation. Anacostia Neighborhood Library, Meeting Room 3, 1800 Good Hope Rd SE. For reservations, call 202-633-4844.
EXHIBITIONS “Artuaré” at Anacostia Community Museum. Through Apr 29. Two installations, “Artuaré” (AHR-tu-ahre) by Steven M. Cummings and “Conversations in the contemporary” by Creative Junkfood comprise the second Community and Creativity exhibition on view at the Anacostia Community Museum. Anacostia Community Museum is open daily 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu
With Every Fiber of My Being-Amber Robles-Gordon. Through Apr 27. The new works included in With Every Fiber of My Being will highlight the intrinsically personal themes Robles-Gordon explores in her art through its incorporation of repurposed second-hand materials such as clothing and accessories. The artist draws connections between her use of personal found items; the idea that varied elements come together to make one individual in work that is marked by her bold use of color and rhythmic melding of disparate objects. Robles-Gordon earned a MFA from Howard University in May 2011, and has lived and made art in Southeast DC for the past 13 years. Honfleur Gallery, 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-365-8392. honfleurgallery.com
CLASSES, TOURS & TALKS Talk by Renowned Islamic Scholar Shaykh Muhammad Hisham. Apr 20, 7:30-9:30 PM. Scholar will address the importance of spirituality in modern times. There will be a special Qasida performance by the Nasheed singer Hajji Ali El Sayed. America’s Islamic Heritage Museum & Cultural Center, 2315 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. 202-6100586. muslimsinamerica.org Gardening with Wildflowers at Kenilworth Park. Apr 21, 1:00-2:00 PM. Talk with a ranger to find out what native flowers would be growing in your yard and how to use them to fill in dead zones, enhance wildlife habitat, or save work. Meet at Visitors Center. For more information contact Kate Bucco at 202-426-6905. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. nps.gov/keaq What’s in Your Closet? Apr 21, 10:30 AM. Bring or wear your favorite clothing, headgear, ties, scarves, or other textile items and share their history. The Anacostia Community Museum’s Josh Gorman, collections manager, will share information about the museum’s collection. He is joined by The Textile Museum’s Tom Goehner, curator of education, and Maria Fusco, associate conservator for collections, who will discuss their collections and share how they care for and preserve a variety of textiles. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu Bookmarks and Fans. Apr 25, 10:30 AM12:30 PM. Create your own bookmark and fan from a variety of crafts materials— beads, feathers, colored paper, and fabric. Artist Tamara Thomas facilitates the workshop. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu About Face! Apr 29, 2:30-3:30 PM. What do you consider when creating a portrait? Learn portraiture techniques from Jay Coleman, one of the city’s premier portrait artists. Explore local and arbitrary color applications to create self-portraits in a variety of media. For reservations, call 202633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 13
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with Mask Making. May 5, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM. Cinco de Mayo is a date of great importance for Chicano communities. It marks the victory of the Mexican Army over the French at the Battle of Puebla on the fifth of May, 1862. The celebration is observed with parades and concerts, musical entertainment, dancing, and traditional foods. This mask making program, led by artist Teresa Grana, offers an introduction to the May 5th celebratiom. For reservations, call 202-6334844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu
SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS DC United Soccer Home Matches. Apr 18, vs. Montreal Impact. Apr 22 vs. New York Red Bulls; Apr 28 vs. Houston Dynamo. 7:30 PM. (4/22 match, 6:00 PM). $23-$52. RFK Stadium. 202-587-5000. dcunited.com Washington Wizards Basketball. Apr 14, 18 and 23 at 7:00 PM. Apr 26 at 8:00 PM. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. 202-397-SEAT. nba.com/ wizards Nats Baseball. Apr 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22; May 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. $5, up. Nationals Park. 202-675-6287. washington.nationals. mlb.com Fair Chance 5K Run/Walk: Runnin’ for a Chance. Apr 15, 9:00 AM. $35. Race will take place on AU’s campus, starting on the Quad, 4400 Mass. Ave. NW. fairchancedc.org Maya Angelou 10K & 5K. Apr 21, 8:00 AM. $40-$50. No on site registration. Rock Creek Park, Near Carter Barron & Tennis Stadium. 202-797-8250. seeforever.org Washington Nationals Pups in the Park. Apr 21, 1:05 PM. Nat’s vs. Marlins. Bring your wellbehaved dog (on a leash) to the ball park. Tickets for you and your dog are $30 which includes a $8 donation to Humane Society. washington.nationals.mlb.com Da’Originalz featuring “Beat Ya Feet”. Apr 28, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM. This “Beat Ya Feet” dance form workshop continues by popular demand. Based on an original D.C. dance form learnhow to create your own movements. This is a three session workshop providing demonstration and group practice supervision by Da’Originalz. If self-expression through movement is your preference, then “Beat Ya Feet” is for you. Please RSVP 202-633-4844 as group size is limited. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu Mambo Moderno. Apr 28, 2:00-4:00 PM. Join Jim Byers, radio personality from WPFW 89.3FM’s “Latin Stream,” as he hosts this portrayal of Latin dance. Today, popular Latin dance is often promoted with images rooted in rural themes. However, in the 1950s, mambo was closely associated with all that was modern, progressive, and edgy—from technology and racial integration to fine art and film. The band Orquesta La Leyenda will perform a range of Afro-Cuban jazz and mambo classics. For reservations, call 202-633-4866. Anacostia
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Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu DC Challenge Adventure Race 5K. Apr 28, 1:30 PM. $50. The Challenge is a ridiculously fun. Amazing Race style competition packed into one incredible day. Teams of two or more will dash around the city, racing against other Challengers for immortal glory (and cash prizes!) as they solve tricky clues, strategize the best route, and explore undiscovered corners of the city. The Bullpen, 1299 Half St. SE. 240442-2011. dcchallenge.org Kettle Classic 5K. Apr 28, 8:00 AM. $15-$30. The first ever Salvation Army Kettle Classic 5K Run/Walk will be held on Saturday, April 28, 2012 in the heart of Washington, DC at West Potomac Park along the Potomac River. 202756-3906. active.com Run/Walk For Freedom 5K. Apr 28, 8:00 AM. $40. East Potomac Park golf course, 972 Ohio Dr. SW. 202-617-5708. safetyandhealthfoundation.org The Race to End Poverty 5K. Apr 28, 8:00 AM. $33. Rock Creek Park-Picnic Area 24. awidercircle.org Metropolitan Branch Trail 5K Race/Walk. May 5, 9:00 AM. $25. 4th St. and S St. NE at MetBranch Trail Entrance. The event will be held on the off-road, paved portion of the MBT hiker/biker trail in Northeast DC, which runs parallel to the Metro Red Line between New York Ave. and Brookland Stations. 202-4555628. gometbranch.com Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Third Wednesday of each month, noon. This run is free and informal. West Potomac Park (meet on Ohio Dr. at West Basin Dr., near the Tourmobile stand). 703-505-3567. dcroadrunners.org Free Yoga Class at Anacostia Neighborhood Library. Every Thursday, 7:00-8:00 PM. Yoga is a great way to relax, unwind and get grounded. Even if you’ve never done yoga before-this class is for you. Open to people of all abilities, ages and body types. All you need to bring is yourself, comfortable clothing and an open mind. Judgment free zone: having a great time is encouraged! Register in person at Anacostia Neighborhood Library, or call 202715-7707. 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. dclibrary. org/anacostia Adult Dance Classes. Mondays, 7:00-8:15 PM, African dance; Tuesdays, 8:00-9:15 PM, Ballet; Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 AM, Zumba. The Washington Ballet @ THEARC offers three adult classes this year. Classes are $10 each or you may purchase a $100 class card for 12 classes. Classes are only $5 for residents who live in the 20020 or 20032 zip codes. (Valid ID required.) THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org Free public tennis courts in Wards 7 and 8. Fort Davis Community Center, 1400 41st St. SE; Hillcrest Recreation Center, 3100 Denver St. SE; Kenilworth-Parkside Recreation Center, 4300 Anacostia Ave. NE; Randle Highlands Tennis Courts, 31st St. and Pennsylvania Ave. SE; Anacostia Park, 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE; Bald Eagle Recreation Center, Martin Luther King, Jr Ave. and Joliet St. SW; Congress Heights Recreation Center, Alabama Ave. and Randle Pl.SE; Fort
Stanton Community Center, 1812 Erie St. SE. All courts are open daily, dawn to dusk. Some are lighted for extended evening play. Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for one-hour intervals; extended use of tennis courts requires a permit. Proper shoes and attire is required. 202-671-0314. dpr.dc.gov Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (indoor courts). Open daily; Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Four indoor courts. Six outdoor courts. Summer hourly fees at $6 to $10 for adults. Kids 17 and under play for free. 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-6456242. dpr.dc.gov/dpr Deanwood (indoor) Pool. Mon-Fri 6:30 AM-8:00 PM; Sat-Sun, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Free for DC residents. 1350 49th St. NE. 202-671-3078. dpr.dc.gov Ferebee Hope (indoor) Pool. Open weekdays, 10:00-6:00 PM. Closed weekends. Free for DC residents. 3999 Eighth St. SE. 202-645-3916. dpr.dc.gov Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon. Oct 7. Registration open. 703-587-4321. wilsonbridgehalf.com Marine Corps Marathon Registration. Registration open at marinemarathon.com. $90. Marathon is Sunday, Oct. 28.
CIVIC LIFE Ward 7 DCPS Public Meeting. Apr 17, 6:30-8:30 PM. Grant funds are projected at $3.8 million for FY 2013, an 82% drop. Officials have announced that the cost of the IMPACT bonuses has been passed on to the individual schools. The city has scheduled a series of community briefings to explain the budget and answer questions. Deanwood Recreation Center, 1350 49th St. NE. Congresswoman Norton’s NW District Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. 529 14th St. NW. 202-783-5065. norton. house.gov Councilmember Alexander’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. 2524 Penn. Ave. SE. 202-5811560. Councilmember Barry’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. 2100 MLK Ave, SE, #307. 202-6982185. Anacostia Coordinating Council Meeting. Last Tuesday, noon-2:00 PM. Anacostia Museum, 1901 Fort St. SE. For further details, contact Philip Pannell, 202-889-4900. Capitol View Civic Association Meeting. Third Monday, 6:30 PM. Hughes Memorial United Methodist, 25 53rd St. NE. capitolviewcivicassoc.org Historical Anacostia Block Association. Second Thursday, 7:00-9:00 PM. UPOAnacostia Service Center, 1649 Good Hope CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 15
Rd. SE. For further details, contact Charles Wilson, 202-834-0600. Anacostia High School School Improvement Team Meeting. Fourth Tuesday. 6:00 PM. Anacostia High School, 16th & R, SE. Deanwood Citizens Association General Body Meeting. Fourth Monday, except Aug. and Dec., 6:30 PM. 1350 49th St. NE. Eastland Gardens Civic Association Meeting. Third Tuesday. 6:30-8:30 PM. Kenilworth Elementary School (auditorium), 1300 44th St. NE. Greg Rhett jrhett3009@ aol.com or 202-388-1532. Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 6th District Citizens Advisory Council. Second Monday, except July and Aug. 7:00 PM. 6th District HQ, 100 42nd St. NE. MPD 7D Citizens Advisory Council Meeting. Third Wednesday, Oct. 19, 7:00-9:00 PM. 7D Police Station Community Room, 2455 Alabama Ave. SE. For details, contact Lendia Johnson at 202-698-1454. PSA 703. Last Wednesday, Oct. 26, 6:308:00 PM. St. John CME Church, 2801 Stanton Rd. SE. For details, contact Lt. Edward Aragona at 202-698-1446. ANC 7A. Second Tuesday, 7:30 PM. Benning-Stoddard Rec. Center, 100 Stoddard Pl. SE. 202-727-1000. 7A@anc.dc.gov. anc7a.org ANC 7B. Third Thursday, 7:00 PM. Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church, 3200 S St. SE (Branch Ave and S St. SE). 202-5843400. anc7b@pressroom.com. anc7b.us ANC 7C. Second Thursday, 7:00 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202-3985100. anc7c@verizon.net
3156 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20010
202.667.2663 202.327.0298
www.deSotodesignbuild.com
ANC 7D. Second Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Sixth District Police Station, 100 42nd St. NE. 202-398-5258. 7D06@anc.dc.gov ANC 7E. Second Tuesday, 7:00-8:30 PM. Jones Memorial Church, 4625 G St. SE. 202582-6360. 7E@anc.dc.gov ANC 8A. First Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Anacostia UPO Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-889-6600. anc8adc.org ANC 8B. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Seventh District Police Station Community Center, Alabama and McGee Sts. SE. 202-610-1818. anc8b.org ANC 8C. First Wednesday (June meeting is on the nineth because of the holiday), 6:30 PM. 2907 MLK Jr Ave. SE. 202-388-2244. ANC 8D. Fourth Thursday, 7:00 PM. Specialty Hospital of Washington, 4601 MLK Jr. Ave. SW. 202 561-0774
Kitchens • Bathrooms • Basements • Wine Cellars • Art Studios • Additions
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ANC 8E. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. SE Tennis and Learning Center, 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-561-6616. 8e02@anc.dc.gov l
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
150 Years of Celebrating Emancipation Day
articel by G. Derek Musgrove | photo by Andrew Lightman
O
n April 16, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln signed “An act for the release of certain persons held to service or labor in the District of Columbia,” known to us today as the Compensated Emancipation Act. The legislation immediately freed the 3,128 enslaved African Americans then living in the federal district and provided compensation for “loyal” former owners. As news spread that the bill had been signed into law, African Americans, both slave and free, celebrated the “Jubilee,” and the country took one more, halting step toward becoming a true democracy. This year marks the 150th anniversary of DC emancipation. Though the date has been one of the most celebrated in the District’s history and currently is a city holiday, few know much about it and its critical importance to DC residents’ and the country’s evolving understanding of freedom. This is a sad state of affairs, for how we celebrate, or even care to remember our past often says a great deal about our present. Perhaps, with a clearer understanding of DC emancipation and the ways in which it has been celebrated over the years, a larger number of DC residents will join the festivities and contribute their minds and muscle to the ongoing struggle for a more perfect Union.
An Island of Freedom
Emancipation transformed Washington, DC into an island of freedom amidst a sea of slavery. In the months following the Act’s passage, hundreds and then thousands joined the steady stream of African Americans seeking refuge in the wartime capitol. By the end of the war, just shy of 30,000 fugitive slaves had crowded into Washington City, and Georgetown, overwhelming first the indigenous African American community and then the federal government’s ability to provide for their care. A hostile, Democratic 18 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
city government made little provision for these “contraband,” and hundreds died of malnutrition, exposure, and disease. Sections of the old National and Arlington Cemeteries are filled with their remains, many of them children. Despite these hardships, the black population of Washington celebrated Emancipation Day between 1862 and 1865. These early celebrations were in-door, private affairs, muted by the immediacy of war and a hostile white population. Though subdued, they nonetheless provided a forum for black Washingtonians to articulate an expanded notion of freedom. During the 1863 celebration, for example, speakers protested segregation on the newly built, horse-drawn streetcars and called on local blacks to join the Union Army to fight for the ultimate destruction of slavery. With the war’s end, the celebrations became massive, public, and nationally influential.
The Emancipation Day Parade, 1866 to 1901
In 1866, one year after former Arlington resident, General Robert E. Lee, had surrendered his Army of Northern Virginia, Washington’s African Americans celebrated Emancipation Day with a huge parade. An estimated 5,000 marchers composed of black church, political, ward and social clubs, brass bands, drum corps, and soldiers armed and in uniform, traversed miles of rutted streets from Georgetown to the Executive Mansion, to the Capitol Building. That evening the marchers retired to Franklin Square where an estimated 10,000 onlookers joined them for orations, song, and prayers of thanksgiving. With strong backing from all quarters of the black community, the Emancipation Day parade became the most impressive public event in the nation’s capital, sometimes outstripping the inauguration in size and passion. Participants came in their best | APRIL 2012
clothes or elaborate costumes, and local clubs spent lavishly to create the most memorable floats or to be accompanied by the best musicians. The 1868 parade, for instance featured floats with a working printing press that reeled off copies of the Emancipation Act, a blacksmith at a working forge, and an African American woman sumptuously adorned as the “goddess of liberty.” And because the parade was in the nation’s capital, it took on a national feel and importance. Contingents of blacks often came from Baltimore, Annapolis, and other surrounding cities to join
the celebration, national black political figures such as Frederick Douglass and the black Reconstruction Congressmen regularly addressed the crowds, and the President regularly reviewed the procession. Far more than a simple celebration of emancipation, the parade served as a forum in which blacks articulated and advocated for an expanded notion of American freedom that knew no bounds of color. In 1866, marchers passed under the portico of the Executive Mansion carrying signs that read “Equal political rights,” and “Univer-
sal suffrage,” a not so subtle rebuke to President Andrew Johnson who, just months before, had attempted to block passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and the Fourteenth Amendment. With radical Republicans in the ascendance, the marchers found powerful allies in Congress who granted African American men the right to vote in the District by overriding Johnson’s vetoes. As voters and citizens, DC blacks used subsequent parades to organize the black community into a powerful force in District elections, sustaining the Reconstruction experiment in the face of local white hostility. Though the parade would continue unabated late into the century, the Reconstruction experiment would not. Much of white America was not ready to accept African Americans as fellow citizens. Congress stripped the District of home rule in 1874 and abandoned the Reconstruction experiment altogether two years later. With the end of bi-racial democracy, indeed all democracy, in the federal District, the parade remained as one of the few public places in which blacks could articulate the expanded notion of freedom that had emerged from the Civil War. As the possibilities of the Reconstruction period vanished, however, black DC residents fractured along class lines. In 1886, middle class blacks sought to distance themselves from the “notorious class of Negroes,” as Washington Bee editor and mouthpiece for the black elite, Calvin Chase called them, and organized their own parade. Chase and other “respectable” blacks, hoped that by distancing themselves from the poverty, ignorance, and “rowdyism” of the black masses, they might shield themselves form the increasing hostility of the white community. This class tension lead to the dissolution of the parade in 1901, when middle class blacks withdrew their support entirely.
Forgetting DC Emancipation
For nearly one hundred years, no large public commemorations marked Emancipation Day. This was not for lack of demand. Public requests for a resumption of the parade became so numerous in 1906
that Chase was forced to make the claim that misappropriation of funds by working class parade organizers had moved black businessmen to end the event. Some black civic and religious organizations attempted to hold their own parades without that support but their efforts paled in comparison to the old celebration. In 1917, for instance, black Baptist churches across the city commemorated emancipation during their Sunday sermons and the Nimrod Grand Encampment No. 1, Ancient Order, Knights of Jerusalem held a small parade the following day. In the 1920s, 30s, and 40s, the Lincoln Emancipation League and the Association of Oldest Inhabitants (Colored) continued to hold Emancipation Day celebrations, but these events were small and often limited to members. The end of the parades, generational change, and population turnover lead to a collective amnesia about DC Emancipation in the middle years of the twentieth century. By the end of the 1910s the number of people who had been freed by the DC Emancipation Act, the living examples of the significance of the legislation, had dwindled to no more than a handful. During and after World War I, the Great Migration filled the city with African Americans who had no personal experience with DC emancipation or the parades. By 1962, public memory of Emancipation Day was so scarce that the centennial passed with little public comment. Official Washington recognized the occasion with a small ceremony in the Capitol at which a recently repaired statue of President Lincoln was rededicated. The Washington Post and Washington Star published short articles about the DC Emancipation Act, yet, incredibly, the Washington Afro American made no mention DC emancipation whatsoever. This silence was in stark contrast to the biracial hoopla over the centennial of the Emancipation Proclamation just a few months later. District residents’ collective amnesia was in keeping with the restrictive notion of freedom that had come to define life in the nation’s capital. No adult DC native living in 1962 had ever voted in any election whatsoever,
and segregation was so entrenched that it carried the authority of law. DC civil rights activists were then demanding an end to these practices, but their demands sprang less from their understanding of the city’s history than the glaring contradiction of segregation and disfranchisement in the then majority-black “capital of the free world.”
Reviving Emancipation Day in the late 20th Century
The modern rediscovery of Emancipation Day came in the mid-1980s through the efforts of a number of African American historians and activists. In 1985, local historian C. R. Gibbs penned “Brief Life, Bitter End for Parade” for the Washington Post, a beautifully written exploration of what he termed the “now-forgotten celebration.” Six years later, Loretta Carter Hanes, president of DC Reading is Fundamental, set out to revive the public celebrations. In April 1991, Hanes organized an Emancipation Day celebration at her home church, All Souls Unitarian. The following year, she teamed up with Howard University historian Elizabeth Clark-Lewis and the Anacostia Community Museum to sponsor the “First Freed Project”: two days of celebrations and lectures on DC emancipation. The following year Hanes began several events that would mark Emancipation Day for the remainder of the decade. Working with New Jersey Representative Donald Manzullo (R), a Lincoln scholar, she organized the ringing of the bells in the old Post Office building (arguing that DC churches had rung their bells to signal the time that the DC Emancipation Act had been signed by Lincoln) and the laying of a wreath at the Lincoln statue in Northeast, to mark Emancipation Day. Ironically, her efforts came to wide public attention when she failed to perform them. In 1999, Hanes, struggling with the medical bills that were a product of a DDT contamination of her home, could not raise $50 to buy a wreath. When the story got out, the National Park Service, the Washington Historical Society, and a handful of private donors raised the money and held a ceremony in June.
City elected officials responded to Hanes’ advocacy, issuing a proclamation declaring April 16 “Emancipation Day” in 1996, making it a “private holiday” in 2000, securing city support for an Emancipation Day parade between 4th and 14th streets along Pennsylvania Ave. in 2002, and, in 2005, making Emancipation Day an official city holiday. Throughout, city leaders used Emancipation Day to make the case for DC statehood. During the 2002 parade, Councilman Vincent Orange (D-Ward 5), sponsor of all of the parade and holiday legislation, stated, “Our ultimate goal is to have taxation with full representation and to have two senators and one representative voting in Congress.” Most recently, in 2011, Mayor Vincent Gray, several members of the City Council, and several dozen residents marked the holiday by protesting recent congressional impositions on local governance and opposition to the DC Voting Rights Act.
Conclusion
Through DC Emancipation Day, African Americans and their allies have highlighted their expansive vision of American freedom. They viewed the Emancipation Act as a critical step in the creation of a democratic and egalitarian society. Freedom, for them, was not simply the absence of slavery, but the presence of justice and equality. This, I believe, is the tradition that we must hold fast to today. So whether you attend the Emancipation Day parade, lay a wreath at the Lincoln statue, or attend one of the many lectures planned for the quincentennial, remember that we are the beneficiaries of a long and tortured struggle for freedom, that struggle is far from over, and it should be celebrated with action. G. Derek Musgrove, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of history at the University of the District of Columbia. He is the author of Rumor, Repression, and Racial Politics: How the Harassment of Black Elected Officials Shaped Post-Civil Rights America (Athens: University of Georgia Press, 2012) l
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BULLETIN BOARD Mayor Gray cuts the ribbon on the Pennsylvania Avenue Great Streets Project. Photo: Courtesy of the District Department of Transportation
Pennsylvania Avenue Great Streets Project Celebrates Completion
Mayor Vincent C. Gray, Ward 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander, District Department of Transportation Director Terry Bellamy, Federal Highway Administrator Victor Mendez and community leaders held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 13 to celebrate the substantial completion of the Pennsylvania Avenue Great Streets Project. The $35.8 million project has dramatically improved this vital corridor, making it safer for vehicular traffic and pedestrians alike and vastly more appealing visually. The Pennsylvania Avenue Great Streets project covers 2 miles, from 200 feet west of 27th St. SE to Southern Ave. SE on the Maryland border. It runs through the historic neighborhoods of Fairlawn, Randle Highlands, Hillcrest and Fairfax Village. A portion of the corridor was reduced from five lanes to four. In its place, DDOT added a landscaped median and turn pockets that protect pedestrians and neighborhood vehicles. Special streetscape treatments were designed to highlight and enhance the retail nodes along the corridor, and DDOT completed the sidewalk network on both sides of the street for the full length of the corridor. This project also includes multiple Low Impact Development features, including three environmentally friendly rain gardens. Rain gardens are a method of treating storm runoff by utilizing a mixture of soil and plants to filter out pollutants prior to the runoff entering storm-sewer systems and, ultimately, local waterways. ddot.dc.gov
Volunteers Needed for Earth Day at Kenilworth Park
On Apr 21, 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.,100 or more volunteers are needed for clean up, planting, weeding, and other garden related jobs. Call Doug Rowley for specifics. 202-426-6906. Meet at the maintenance yard. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. nps.gov/keaq
2012 Emancipate Yourself from Medical Mental Slavery Day
odridge, Jr., Sis. Intisar Munir, Dr. W. Kokayi K. Patterson, Sis. Rachel Pope, and Bro. Manifest RA. They will be presented with the “Dr. Nathaniel L. Caine Health and Healing Humanitarian Award of the Year,” honoring the Life and Legacy of a remarkable humanitarian. For tickets, contact Dr. K at 202-248-7749 or visit 4celllife. com. Monday, Apr 30, 5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. THEARC Recital Hall, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org
New Signage for East of the River Bike Routes
The Ark of Self-Healing and SelfH.E.L.P. (Health Education for Longevity & Peace) and Dr. Karen DavisFoulks present the “2012 Emancipate Yourself from Medical Mental Slavery Day,” a dinner and award program honoring community members for sharing the “Natural arts of true living” to the community. This year’s honorees include Mama Ayo-HandiKendi, Bro. Coy Dunston, Rev. Dorita Dixon, Bro. H.A.R. old N. Go-
DDOT has installed new signage to mark five bike routes on the east side of the District. The five routes total over twenty miles in length and provide on-street linkages between the Metropolitan Branch Trail, the Marvin Gaye Trail, the Oxon Run Trail, the Anacostia River Trail System and the Anacostia Tributaries Trail System in Prince George’s County, Maryland. The routes use a newly designed Bike Route sign
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and provide distance information to key destinations. Over the past few weeks, contractors have installed more than 750 sign plates at 255 locations to mark the new routes. DDOT selected this set of routes to address requests for more bicycle facilities in Wards 7 and 8; to provide clear access to DC’s emerging city-wide trail system; to improve access from East of the River to downtown jobs and resources; and to update old signed routes dating back to the 1970’s. A new route (4.7 miles) links the Pennsylvania Ave. cycletrack to Nationals Park and Historic Anacostia using the Frederick Douglass Bridge. The Marvin Gaye Trail to Metropolitan Branch Trail route (5.2 miles) links Woodson High School and neighborhoods along the Watts Branch to the Minnesota Avenue Metro Station. The route then continues west using a narrow sidewalk along the Benning Road bridge, one of the few bicycle-pedestrian crossings of DC Route 295 and the CSX Benning Yards. It passes through
River Terrace and Kingman Park, links to the East and West Bank Trails along the Anacostia River and traverses the northeast neighborhoods on Capitol Hill. It uses bike lanes on C and D sts. NE to reach Union Station. Also located east of the River, the Heights Bike Route (6.5 miles) links the Marvin Gaye Trail in Ward 7 with the Oxon Run Trail in Ward 8. The neighborhoods of Lincoln Heights, Marshall Heights, Benning Heights, Hillcrest, Garfield Heights and Congress Heights are all linked using Southern and Alabama avenues. To meet the goals set forth in the 2005 Bicycle Master Plan, the District hopes to sign 10 miles of new bike routes every year through 2015. For more information about DDOT’s Bicycle Program, visit them online at ddot.dc.gov/bikes.
eReader Help at Deanwood Library
Interested in learning to read or listen to free books from the library on an eReader or smartphone? Need help
downloading library eBooks or using your own eReader? Interested in seeing what an eReader can do before you make the investment? Stop by the Deanwood Library on Thursdays from noon-2:00 p.m. for some one-on-one help. Please bring your device and library card number with you as well as your laptop if you need help with your Nook or Kindle. If you’ve got an Android smartphone or an iPhone, then no computer is necessary! Deanwood Neighborhood Library, 1350 49th St. NE. 202698-1175. dclibrary.org/deanwood
Aya Community Market Reopens This Month
Aya Community Market at the Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church, 3000 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, reopens this month and continues on the 1st and 3rd Saturday, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., of each month through Nov 17. Aya Community Market is an innovative farmers market and holistic health experience located East of the River helping provide access to fresh produce and gateways to community health resources that residents need to get healthy and stay healthy. The market features fresh produce, SNAP benefits that doubles purchases up to $10, live music, cooking demonstrations, wellness seminars, children’s reading circles, health screenings and physical activity demonstrations. dreamingoutloud.org
Peter Frias Real Estate “Your Connection to Capitol Hill and Beyond”
I’ve been representing buyers and sellers on the Hill for over 15 years, and I can help you too! 1% of my commissions are donated to Habitat for Humanity DC
Xplosion of Color Fashion Show
This fashion show will display a collection of clothing from talented youth and young adults who seek to one day be discovered for their unique skills and abilities. $20. Sunday, May 6, 3:00 p.m. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-8895901. thearcdc.org.
Ward 8 Tree Planting
There will be a tree planting at Oxon Run Park, Valley Ave. and Wheeler Rd. SE., on Apr 28, 9:00 a.m. Volunteers of all ages and abilities are needed to help plant trees in all eight Wards. No expe-
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS SE, contact Jennifer Smith at jsmith@ cpdc.org or 202-248-0593.
Save the Date-The Washington Ballet: Once Upon A Time
Mayor Gray, Coucilmembers, dignitaries and developers at Eden Place at Beulah Crossing Grand Opening.
Eden Place Opens
On March 22, Mayor Gray, District officials, civic leaders and neighborhood residents celebrated the Eden Place at Beulah Crossing Grand Opening. Located at 400 Eastern Ave. NE near the intersection of Eastern Ave. and Dix St. in the Deanwood Heights neighborhood, the development establishes a community of 63 affordable, for-sale town homes, developed as a partnership of Denning Development, UrbanMatters Development Partners L.L.C., NCD Management and Beulah Community Improvement Corporation. The 63 town homes have three floor plan options. Each home boasts at least 1,492 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, parking and Energy Star and green community features, all within walking distance of public transportation and minutes from Metro. The town homes are designed to provide comfortable living space with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and design detail. EdenPlaceDC.com rience is necessary. For volunteer opportunities, contact Liz Ball, Volunteer Coordinator at lball@caseytrees. org or 202-349-1907. caseytrees.org
Anacostia Watershed Society Asks for Equipment Donations
AWS is always in need of special equipment and services to keep their environmental programs running. This includes canoes, paddles, kayaks, life vests, wet bags, and other items for their outdoor programs. If you have any extras, please contact them about making a donation. 301-6996204. anacostiaws.org
Earth Day Meadow Seed Planting at Ft. Dupont
Join other volunteers at Ft. Dupont on Saturday, Apr 21, 10:00 a.m. Please wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes. Meet at the visitors center.
22 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
Inspired by fairytales from around the world, The Washington Ballet performs a collection of new productions showcasing its Studio Company dancers and four world premieres from TWB’s David Palmer, Monique Meunier, Elaine Kudo, Lucy Bowen McCauley and Andile Ndlovu. Tickets on sale now. $50. Saturday, May 19 and 20, 1:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
Northeast Imani Fellowship Opens
Northeast Imani Fellowship is a new Bible and Woship Center for anyone wanting to increase their relationship with God. They are open to all races, creeds, and colors. There is frustration and sadness in the world today but the Northeast Imani Fellowship desires to show you that life is still worth living and people are still worth loving and God is still worth trusting. Every Saturday, 2:00-4:00 p.m. 4127 Anacostia Ave. NE. 202489-3752. womanpriest@msn.com
Financial Literacy Workshop Series Health E-Saver Coupons from A Financial Empowerment Series Yes! Organic
will be offered at three locations. The 12-week, 90 minute classes will be offered on a three-month rotation cycle. The program offers six classes facilitated by Community Preservation and Development Corporation and Bank on DC partners while integrating six online modular lessons to measure inputs and outcomes of each resident through the My Starting Point portal. This online digital platform will support the in-class instruction delivered by the banking partners. A few of the topics to be taught are the basics of banking, budgeting, credit building, understanding cards (debit cards, credit cards, gift cards, prepaid cards), Intro to savings and investments. The workshops will be held at Edgewood Terrace, 635 Edgewood St. NE, contact Sean Nix at snix@cpdc.org or 202-350-8235; Mayfair Mansions, 3819 Jay St. NE, contact Sonya Hochevar at shochevar@cpdc.org or 202396-0225; The Overlook, 3700 9th St. | APRIL 2012
Yes! Organic Market has been a source for healthful food, supplements and body care products at affordable prices for over 30 years. Their mission is to provide a positive shopping experience for the health-conscious consumer. Knowledgeable and helpful employees are on staff to assist you in selecting the best products for yourself and your family. Find coupon savings on organic health products on yesorganicmarket. com. Open Mon-Sat, 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. and Sun, 8:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Yes! Organic Market-Fairlawn, 2323 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-582-1480
Encouraging the Growth of the Creative Community in SE Washington: What We Have, What We Need, and How to Get It
This panel discussion focuses on expanding the opportunities to create centers of creative activities in
SE Washington. The discussion will explore existing hubs of activity, current signature events and possible new activities, efforts to encourage affordable housing studio/space for artists, and possible short-and longterm collaborative efforts to continue to promote SE as a nexus within creative Washington. This community forum is part of the museum’s project Call and Response: Community and Creativity, exploring creativity east of the Anacostia River. For reservations, call 202-633-4844. Apr 17, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu
Wildflower Identification at Kenilworth Park
Bring your favorite field guide for Northeast United States and get experience using the glossary and key to identify wildflowers in the park. They begin indoors then use flowers blooming in the park to gain experience in using the books of choice. Wear shoes that can get muddy, and weather appropriate clothing. Meet at the visitor center. This program is suitable for teens and adults. For more information call Kate at 202-426-6905. Apr 14 and 15, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. nps.gov/keaq
Eat Shop Live Anacostia
Eat Shop Live Anacostia (ESLA) is a neighborhood network and empowerment campaign designed specifically for the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington, DC. ESLA’s goal is to present Anacostia as the wonderful community it is with all the great dining, retail, and attractions it has to offer. To learn more, visit eatshopliveanacostia.com.
SOS: Steps of Success to Wellness at THEARC
The SOS: Steps of Success to Wellness is a training series, taught by exceptional and experienced medical practitioners including several pediatricians and a dentist. Sessions take place the third Thursday of every month from 5:00-7:00 p.m. The remaining schedule is Apr. 19HIV & the Community Around Me
led by Dr. Rhonique Harris; May 17-Hypertension and Diabetes: The Silent Killer led by Dr. Chen; June 21-Waiting to Exhale: Living with Asthma led by Dr. Wood. Free. For more information or to register, contact Ellen Wiggins at 202-436-3076. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
Join the Anacostia Watershed Society Earth Day Cleanup and Celebration
Join the Anacostia Watershed Society and other local organizations to help cleanup the Anacostia River and its tributaries in honor of Earth Day. Last year, more than 2,000 volunteers helped us remove more than 42 tons of trash from the river! For AWS volunteer opportunities, visit anacostiaws.org/earthday. This year the Celebration will be held on Apr 21, noon-2:00 a.m., in RFK parking lot #6 (right near the bridge that takes you to Kingman and Heritage Islands). There is plenty of parking on site, and it is Metro accessible (Stadium-Armory Station, Orange and Blue lines). The celebration will feature notable speakers, live music by local reggae band Proverbs, as well as vendor and organizational tables-so you can check out what other cool environmental things are going on in the DC metro area.
Barry Farm Recreation Center
Barry Farms Recreation in Ward 8 is located on Sumner Rd, walking distance from Anacostia metro station. It is home of the famous Goodman Summer Basketball League, where many of the areas professional and college players play during the off-season. It offers all of the seasonal youth sports, youth clubs and after school activities as well as modeling and cheerleading for our young ladies. The center features a children’s pool, computer lab, multipurpose room, a parksite, playground and 60’ diamond softball field. 1230 Sumner Rd. SE. 202-730-0572. dpr.dc.gov
Married Couples with Children Assistance Program
Housing Counseling Services, Inc., a HUD approved non-profit counseling agency, now offers finan-
cial assistance to eligible households through the Married Couples with Children Assistance Program (MCCAP). Married couples with children who live in DC and fit eligibility criteria may receive up to $4,000 to pay mortgage, rent, and other household expenses. Call 202 667-7006 to find out about this program and other assistance available through Housing Counseling Services.
Thursday Night Service at Union Temple
Every Thursday, the whole family can come together to “rightly divide the word of the truth”. Union Temple Baptist Church, 1225 W St. SE. 202-678-8822. uniontemple.com
DPR Senior Games
The DC Department of Parks and Recreation has opened registration for “Fit 4 Life”the 29th Annual DC Senior Games. Registration is through Apr 27. The DC Senior Games is scheduled for May 7-11 at various locations throughout the District of Columbia. The yearly competition brings together seniors from across the city to participate in athletic activities that promote healthy living for a longer, more robust life. Over 160 athletes competed in the 2011 DC Senior Games. Each year, the DC Senior Games features activities like swimming, basketball, bowling, tennis, track and field, horseshoe toss, archery, and softball. There is a $25 registration fee per athlete. The registration fee includes entrance fees and a t-shirt. Registration closes at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Apr 27, though early registration is highly recommended. Registration for the DC Senior Games can be completed online at dpr.dc.gov or a entry application can be submitted in person at one of DPR’s 21 senior centers or mailed to 2012 DC Senior Games, DC Department of Parks and Recreation, 1480 Girard St. NW, Suite 420, Washington, DC 20009. dpr.dc.gov
Correction
Last month a photo of Robin Marlin (ANC Commissioner 7B05) was incorrectly identified as candidate for Ward 7 City Council Dorothy Douglas. We apologize for any confusion this caused. l CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
District Beat
Wrapping Up the DC Primaries by Martin Austermuhle
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here’s nothing worse than having your esteemed editors push your deadline to account for a coming election—and that election remain unsettled after all of the ballots have been counted. But that’s what happened after polls closed on the April 3 D.C. primary. In the marquee matchup between Councilmember Vincent Orange (D-At Large) and Sekou Biddle for an At-Large seat on the D.C. Council, Orange emerged victorious by a mere 543 votes, or 1.05 percent of all ballots cast. Still, that wasn’t enough for him to declare victory—with absentee and provisional votes yet to be counted, the margin between the two could well fall under the one percent mark, triggering an automatic recount. The race is significant for a number of reasons. First, because it was the only race in which the incumbent did not handily win re-election. In ward 2, 4, 7, and 8, challengers failed to defeat the incumbents they decried on the campaign trail. Second, it demonstrates the corrosive effect the blossoming scandal involving city contractor and campaign contributor Jeffrey Thompson had on Orange, who in March admitted to having taken $26,000 in money orders from Thompson for his 2010 At-Large campaign. Third, it may finally dampen Orange’s enthusiasm—and electability—for higher office.
Orange’s Options
Orange ran for mayor in 2006, and it seemed like something of an open secret that he was again eyeing the possibility for 2014. At a number of candidate forums over the last three months, Orange repeatedly refused to answer the simple question over whether he would complete an At-Large term or throw himself into the mayoral race. 24 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
Even if he does end up beating Biddle, Orange’s calculations for how to proceed have surely changed. First of, consider the fact that the Thompson scandal—which is slowly engulfing just about everyone in the city’s political establishment—is only now starting to show itself. If voter disgust with what has been exposed already was enough to give Biddle a big enough boost to get him within a few hundred votes of Orange, then Orange has to think: “How many more votes will I lose if this gets worse?” That’s not to say that Orange couldn’t win a mayoral election with the votes he had yesterday. All told, he did what plenty of citywide candidates have done before him—sweep wards 5, 7 and 8. Still, he lost out to Biddle in Ward 4—albeit narrowly. It won’t be lost on him that it was Ward 4 that helped decide the 2010 mayoral contest. Additionally, Orange fared terribly in wards 1, 2, 3, and 6. It was only two years ago that Orange carried Ward 3 in his fight against Kwame Brown for the council’s top post, and now he can’t rely on its votes anymore. If Orange wants to regain the voters’ confidence he steadily lost over the last few months, he’ll have to start now. In many ways, though, that’s out of his control. If the Thompson fundraising scandal continues, Orange could find himself explaining his actions rather than prepping himself for the rigors of a citywide mayoral battle that is expected to heat up as soon as next year.
Mayor Muriel?
Just as Orange’s mayoral fortunes have fallen, Councilmember Muriel Bowser’s (D-Ward 4) seem to have risen. Against a field of five challengers, Bowser came away with a respectable 65 percent of the vote. Rumors have surfaced as to her future ambitions, but unlike Orange, she’s dealt with them more deftly. At a candidate | APRIL 2012
forum in March, Bowser was asked whether she would serve a full term if re-elected. Quickly pivoting, she said she would do whatever the residents of Ward 4 would ask of her. Given the April 3 results, her constituents are clearly happy with her—and probably wouldn’t mind having another mayor from Ward 4, either.
Marion, the Councilmember-for-Life
Plenty of people across the city spent much of 2012 thinking, “Could this be the year Marion Barry gets voted out of office?” The problem is that many of those people don’t live in Ward 8, and those that do seemed to have thought that Barry was worth a third term on the council. Of all of the candidates facing challengers, none did better than Barry. In taking 72 percent of the vote, Barry again proved that he’s the indispensable councilmember he always claimed he was. While his campaign seemed to lack energy and the fates finally looked to be conspiring against him, Barry again proved that it’s tough to quit him. The overwhelming victory he enjoyed will likely embolden him on the council, reversing a trend under which he has been seen as more and more irrelevant.
Yvette’s Challenge
Yvette Alexander won her reelection bid in Ward 7. In November’s general election, she faces Ron Moten, formerly of Peaceaholics who claimed victory in the rare Republican primary. Of course, Moten’s a Republican in a ward that’s not. (He only needed 61 votes to win.) He has to find a way to convince enough Democrats that may not like Alexander that he’s worth voting for. At the same time, he’ll have to fend off attacks from Alexander claiming that, well, he’s
a Republican. Brand matters, after all. (In a year that President Obama will be up for re-election, no less.) Additionally, he’s still under a cloud for scandals related to city funds that were directed to Peaceaholics and a group home it started. ßStill, this will be the most entertaining race to watch in November.
Divided We Fall
Alexander’s victory again brings up an issue that has bedeviled challengers for as long as democracy has existed—dividing up the vote against an incumbent. While the division of votes was most pronounced in Ward 7, it may also have played a significant role in the At-Large contest. Supporters of Biddle grumbled on election night that fellow challenger Peter Shapiro might have cost Biddle the win by peeling off progressive voters and helping Orange attack Biddle on the campaign trail. There might be some truth to that—Shapiro took 30 percent of the vote in Ward 3, or some 1,300 votes. Had he dropped out of the race, at least some of those could have gone to Biddle. With 543 votes separating Biddle and Orange, every vote counts. Of course, challenger E. Gail Anderson Holness took some votes out of Orange’s base east of the river, so she might cancel out what Shapiro took from Biddle. And as Shapiro supporters noted, Biddle himself was something of a spoiler in last year’s special election, potentially costing Patrick Mara votes against Orange. Avoiding the spoiler effect seems to have worked in one case, though. In Ward 5, which faces a special election on May 15, ANC Commissioner John Salatti dropped out of the race early on. The reason? He was concerned that he and Kenyan McDuffie would split the progressive vote in the ward, allowing frontrunner Delano Hunter to easily win election to the council. Martin Austermuhle is the Editorin-Chief of DCist.com and a freelance writer. He lives in Petworth. l
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
It’s Budget Season!
Once again he budget is being balanced by cuts in housing and human services by Elissa Silverman
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n March 23rd, Mayor Vincent C. Gray announced his priorities for the upcoming year. That morning, he released his Fiscal Year 2013 budget. By law, the DC Council has 56 days to review, tinker and tweak, but by May 15—when the Council has scheduled its vote on the package—the budget must balance. Gray’s proposal offers a balance of cuts and revenue to close a $172 million gap and compensate for reduced federal funding. But an initial analysis shows the cuts are heavily weighted toward programs in housing and human services, as happened last year. As part of his budget package, Mayor Gray included a $120 million “wish list” that would restore many of these cuts, including funding for services for homeless families, if the District experiences an unanticipated revenue boost over the year. If Gray thinks good times are ahead, why do we have a gap? The cost of providing services in DC is rising because more students are expected to enroll in publicly funded schools, more people will qualify for DC’s health programs, health care costs are rising, and just plain old inflation. Yet the city’s economic recovery is still fragile, so tax collections are not keeping up with these demands.
Revenue: Cruisin’ and Boozin’
Mayor Gray’s proposed budget does not include tax increases. He does propose to raise $70 million through four major sources: improved collection of existing taxes and fees, increased traffic fines, expanded sales hours for alcohol, and adjustments to some income and property tax deductions. The smallest revenue source will likely be one of the most controversial. Under Gray’s proposal, bars 26 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
would stay open an hour later—until 3 a.m. weekdays and 4 a.m. weekends—and stores could start selling beer and wine as early as 7 a.m. The mayor says this will add about $5 million to city coffers, as the city collects more taxes on more food and drinks sold. Another proposal that will likely generate a lot of discussion is an expansion of traffic enforcement. Gray says that the speeding cameras, lasers that will monitor speed in tunnels and mobile traffic enforcement cameras will add $24.8 million to the city treasury. Enhanced collection of existing taxes and fees will add about $28 million. This includes a more vigorous collection of sales taxes and application of the vacant property tax. And $12 million would come from scaling back planned inflation adjustments for two income tax benefits – the standard deduction and the personal exemption -- and the property tax homestead deduction for homeowners. These tax benefits haven’t been adjusted for inflation for many years. Rather than fully catch up these deductions for lost ground, the mayor wants to adjust for inflation for just one year. This means that residents would pay more in taxes than if the scheduled five-year inflation adjustment had gone into effect.
Cuts: Housing and Health Get Hit Again
The proposed FY 2013 budget has about $73 million in cuts to public services, disproportionately impacting programs that help keep families stable, both in terms of health and housing. This area of the budget has been hit hard during the last three years, even as unemployment and poverty rose in the recession, due to multiple rounds of budget cuts. In addition, several reductions in federal funding that were not re| APRIL 2012
The Numbers placed with local funds on initial glance seem to fall heavily in health and human services, particularly housing for homeless residents. The major cuts and reductions include: • Health care coverage for lowincome DC residents. The Mayor’s FY 2013 budget includes a $23 million reduction to DC’s Healthcare Alliance, which would limit benefits to primary and preventive care and no longer cover hospitalization. There is also an $8 million reduction from reduced Medicaid reimbursement rates, mainly for hospital services. • Affordable Housing. Gray proposes to cut in half the main program that funds renovation and construction of affordable housing for the second year in a row. The $20 million cut from the Housing Production Trust Fund means that little progress will be made to build and renovate affordable housing in the District. • Homeless services: The budget includes a $7 million shortfall for homeless services, due to depletion of some federal funding sources. The budget does not provide adequate funding to operate the shelter for homeless families at DC General, or to provide sufficient transitional housing subsidies to move families out of shelter. • Cash Assistance for Families with Children: The proposed budget keeps in place steep cuts to income assistance for families that were adopted in last year’s budget and will go into effect in October 2012. Cash assistance benefits for 6,200 families who received TANF assistance— including 12,000 children — would be reduced to $257 per month for a family of three. While the Department of Human Services is implementing a promising re-design of its welfare-to-work services, city officials acknowledge that many families will see benefit cuts before being enrolled in the new program. It is not clear how these families, many of
whom face low literacy and other barriers to work, will manage to make ends meet. Funding for DC Public Schools would go up 2 percent, yet core school expenses for teachers and other staff will grow 5 percent. This is because private funding for teacher performance bonuses has ended, and health and other fringe benefit costs are rising sharply. As a result, DCPS proposes increasing class sizes in middle schools and high schools, and smaller schools would lose funding for their librarian.
Contingency Priority List: Crossing Fingers For Good Times Ahead
In a novel move, Mayor Gray included a funding “wish list” as part of his proposal. If the District sees an uptick in revenue next year, Gray proposes to use the money to restore funding to many of the health and housing programs that he just proposed cutting. Many of the programs that would be restored first are services for low- and moderate-income families. Gray listed 25 programs, but here are the Top 10, in order: 1. $7 million for Homeless Services loss of federal funding 2. $14.7 million for the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Employment Program 3. $23 million for Healthcare Alliance restoration 4. $20 million for Housing Production Trust Fund 5. $2.6 million for Victim Services 6. $1.1 million to repeal tax on outof-state bonds 7. $8.6 million to Office of State Superintendent for infant and toddler services 8. $5 million for OSSE special education 9. $1.6 to Department of Human Services 10. $2.9 million to Housing Production Assistance Program
DCFPI will be working over the next few weeks to issue more detailed analyses of overall changes made in the FY 2013 budget. Please check our website, www.dcfpi.org, for more details. l
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Anacostia in the Spotlight Where Arts Lead Development by Dana Bell
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Historic Anacostia & Arch
here is a popular bumper sticker favored by certain creative types that says “Art for Art’s Sake.” That might be a good philosophy for some artists, but it doesn’t quite fly in Anacostia. At ARCH Development Corporation in the historic neighborhood of Anacostia, art is being used for an entirely different purpose. ARCH Development is joining an international movement that uses the creative power and imagination of the arts to fuel economic investment and interest in underserved communities. Since 2007, Honfleur Gallery, Vivid Solutions, and BlankSpace DC have worked with artists who live around the corner and artists who live across the ocean to support the arts and bring people out into Anacostia.
For many years, ARCH has been a non-traditional development company. Although they are one of the biggest landowners in historic Anacostia, they have always supplemented that business through community development, through its job-training center or through a façade improvement project. The complementary program to ARCH’s arts-led spaces has been the HIVE, or the Home of Innovators/ Visionaries/Entrepreneurs. As the only business incubator East of the River, the HIVE has filled a valuable role for small businesses since it opened its doors. It offers different levels of memberships from Executive Membership (private office, 16 hours of conference room space) to a
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| APRIL 2012
Virtual Membership for those businesses who need a professional address to receive mail. Natanya Levioff, the DC Local Director for GreatSchools, a nonprofit that supplies information for parents about over 200,000 schools, was looking to expand her business but stay east of the river. After looking at churches and smaller nonprofits with extra space, she stumbled upon the HIVE in the fall of 2010, and became the first business to sign with them. “We have a small budget to handle things like rent, so to find a place like the HIVE that included everything in one low monthly rate was astonishing,” she says. The HIVE has currently has a waiting list, and is waiting to expand their business incubator into the
ARCH training center space. “We think there is tremendous potential in historic Anacostia for business and in fact there is already the demand for it… we just need folks to join us!” Levioff says. That is where the arts come in.
Location, Location, Location
Anacostia has long been cursed by prejudices about the neighborhood that are further enforced by its physical division. The problem, in many ways, is a psychological one. The stereotypes of Anacostia as being dangerous or crime-ridden often overshadow the artistic and growing retail strength of the neighborhood. “There’s a richness here, but there’s a physical barrier for people,” says local resident and artist
Sheila Crider. The new 11th Street Bridge and improved transit options will facilitate what ARCH hopes is the beginning of an exchange between the east and west sides of the Anacostia River. The 11th Street bridge offers a local connection to the neighborhood, as well as a sixteen-foot wide bicycle and pedestrian lane. The Circulator buses now go to Anacostia from the northwestern part of the city, and the EPA is planning a revitalization of the Anacostia Metro station that will enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety. Phil Hutinet, the Chief Operating Officer of ARCH regularly bicycle commutes over the bridge. He is quick to point out the similarities between the two neighborhoods. “What we’re going through here is essentially what they went through on 8th Street ten or fifteen years ago,” he says. “People on Capitol Hill have dealt with these kinds of things, so there’s a little solidarity.”
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Arts Led Development Elsewhere
Development in Anacostia was moving along in a fairly traditional economic development way. But at a business retreat in 2004, the ARCH Board of Directors discussed a different way to supplement their other programs. “We came together with the concept that arts and culture would be a means of assisting economic regeneration,” says Duane Gautier, the founder and CEO of ARCH. “It’s not unique.” He’s right. There are neighborhoods like SoHo or Chelsea in New York, or even whole cities like Paris, that thrive off of their status as artistic hubs. In Hyattsville, Maryland, the designation of an arts district has helped to drive economic investment, even during the recession. “Every time you’re able to define an area, it helps to communicate an idea of what you’re
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building towards,” explains Jim Chandler, the Director of Community and Economic Development for Hyattsville. Since 2001, the city government and local organizations have made Hyattsville a desirable location not just for art galleries, but for restaurants like Busboys and Poets, or townhouse developers like EYA. For Anacostia, this rebranding is an important aspect for a neighborhood that has long been on the margins. “We want Anacostia to become a point of destination,” Gautier explained. The cheap rents and concentrated business district of Anacostia are also a call to an increasingly displaced arts community. As rising rents push out traditional arts havens like Mount Vernon Square or H Street, ARCH is not shy in calling them over the bridge. “We have a spot for them East of the River,” says Hutinet, a former H Streeter himself.
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30 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
| APRIL 2012
ARCH built its first gallery in 2007. Honfleur Gallery is a two-story studio next to ARCH’s training center on Good Hope Road. They further fortified their presence in the area with two more spaces: Vivid Solutions, a photography studio with an extremely sophisticated print lab, and Blank Space DC, an empty space that can be utilized for different art projects. The art galleries support other programs for artists and the community. ARCH provides temporary artists residences, offers an annual East of the River artist award of $5,000, lends its space out for business meetings, events, and even yoga classes. As time has passed, the arts arm of ARCH has become integrated into the community as a whole. “There’s always been an arts scene in Anacostia, but now it’s got a more visible cultural representation,” says Amber Robles-Gordon, a local artist who recently held a successful show at Honfleur. The galleries host art shows with local, national, and international artists, but they are also doing much more to cement their place in the community. Andrea Hope, the Director of Digital Productions, is one of the only Americans certified in a French printing technique known as digigraphie. Using the labs state of the art technology, she printed several photographs of Anacostia: an old daguerreotype of Frederick Douglass, a house with blooming yellow daffodils in the yard, kids posing on the street, all of which capture the depth and complexity of the neighborhood. They hang on the fence across the street from Vivid Solutions and along the chain link fence on an abandoned lot on the corner of MLK and Good Hope. Empty Natural
Light beer cans litter the overgrown grass, and the imagination does not have to go far to connect to the metaphor: What was once trashed is now treasured.
Lumen8: Bringing the Spotlight to Anacostia
When the Office of Planning won a $250,000 ArtPlace grant, its mission sounded like it was lifted from the ARCH website. ArtPlace, a partnership between seven federal agencies, including the National Endowment for the Arts, and major private institutions, offered this grant to “support revitalization of emerging neighborhoods through arts and creative uses, branding and placemaking,” and “better connect creative assets and support systems (e.g. education, workforce development).” This is essentially what ARCH does on a daily basis, but the grant will allow them to amplify and expand their mission over the coming months. There are two layers to the events taking place in Anacostia. There is the LUMEN8 Festival on April 14th, a twelve-hour festival loosely based on other all-night arts events like Nuit Blanche in Paris. Creative lighting will be in place up and down MLK and Good Hope Road. Short, silent films will be projected onto the buildings during the night. ARCH is also working with PinkLine and the Alliance Francaise to throw the Cherry Blast, a big party in the Shannon Space Warehouse. The second part of the project, which will kick off during LUMEN8, is the creation of several temporary galleries and art projects that will remain in Anacostia for three months following the festival. The idea of the temporium, much like ARCH’s Blank Space DC gallery, is also supported by the Temporary Urbanism Initiative in the Office of Planning. Both ARCH and DCOP emphasize retail arts and enlivening underused area, but neither have supported projects for this length of time before. Of the 30 artists who will be performing at the LUMEN8 Festival, half are from Ward 8, and an even greater percentage are from East of the River. For the artists used to trekking across the city to go to openings, it presents an exciting opportunity. “This is the first time in a long time that there’s a concentrated event that’s free and open to the public,” says local performance artist John Johnson. The LUMEN8 Festival is a watershed moment for Anacostia. “It shows how Anacostia is changing, moving, and growing,” says ANC Commisioner Greta Fuller. “There’s no longer the perception that it’s all trouble.” l
Dennis N. Logan Hillcrest Loses Pillar of the Community
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by Michelle Phipps-Evans
loria Logan, the widow of former deputy fire chief, Ward 7 and Hillcrest civic activist Dennis N. Logan, said the character of the life her husband lived may be summed up in a few words. “He was sincere; a man of superlatively high standards, complete integrity and boundless enthusiasm for whatever task he undertook,” said Mrs. Logan who was married to Mr. Logan for almost 55 years. “If you had the privilege to know him, you cannot forget the candor of his speech, the courage of his faith and the warm and glowing brightness of his friendship.” Logan died March 2, 2012, a day after his 87th birthday. It was this candor of speech and courage of his faith that allowed Logan to count some the city’s powerful leaders among his friends. In fact, speak to anyone, and many would confirm that in little ways, Logan had inspired several lives to step up and to volunteer and to be part of something bigger than the self.
That’s how the Council of the District of Columbia Chairman Kwame Brown remembers Logan.
“He had passion and joy for every aspect of his life and was genuinely driven by his love for DC and his compassion for those around him,” said Brown, 41, a Hillcrest resident. “There are no words to sufficiently describe his dedication to the Hillcrest community, Ward 7 and the city. When I was deciding to run for DC Council, Dennis encouraged and supported my candidacy. He advised me on how to be a good leader and public servant, and for that I will always be grateful.” Others echo his sentiments. Logan encouraged citizen participation in any number of ways. And, he lived by his words having served the community rising through the ranks as deputy fire chief before retirement; the Hillcrest Community Civic Association (HCCA)’s treasurer for 15 years; served on the board of the Boys and Girls Club, and helped launch the ANC7B Neighborhood Watch program and served as its chairman from 1983 until his retirement in 2003. He became so well known for his work on the Neighborhood Watch program, which has received praise for its effectiveness at curbing crime and making the neighborhood a safer place that at Logan’s funeral service, DC Mayor Vincent C. Gray opined that the program should be renamed the Dennis Logan Neighborhood Watch program.
“He was a role model in our community,” said Mayor Gray at the March 6 service at the St. Francis Xavier Church, adding that the community lost his “vision and wisdom.” Gray joined the service with Chairman Brown as well as the Ward 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander and At-Large Councilmember Michael Brown, as well as other District agency heads such as Fire Chief Ellerbe and many others whose lives he touched. To longtime Hillcrest resident Paul Savage who worked with Logan on Neighborhood Watch as
well as other community issues, “he was more than the HCCA—dedicated and focused on the task at hand. He was a great persuader. He knew how to approach people and get them on his team.” Current HCCA president, Karen Williams, confided that it was Logan who encouraged her to take over the civic association, which she said was created by people who were bigger than she was. She has led the HCCA since 2007. Logan was born in Rutherfordton, NC, and was a Navy veteran of World War II. The Logans were married in 1957, and have been in Hillcrest since 1965, raising three sons there. The Neighborhood Watch program began in the 1980s with 12 block captains. By reaching out to each other, block by block, by the end of 2004, there were 175 block captains and zone leaders that represented all the neighborhoods throughout the ANC area. The neighborhood’s first “night out,” part of the National Night Out, a nationwide event to prevent outdoor and drug-related crime, was held 1989 on the Logan’s front lawn. “It’s all about neighbors looking out for one another. It’s as simple as that,” says Gloria Logan in an earlier interview on the Neighborhood Watch program. Logan was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Ward 7 and served as coordinator of ushers. He was past president of the Holy Name Society at the church, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and other associations. He was also a founding member of the Washington Interfaith Network, a broadbased, multi-racial, multi-faith, non-partisan District-wide citizens’ power organization, rooted in local congregations and associations. Besides leaving his wife and three sons to mourn his passing, Logan had two sisters, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In 2010, one of the last interviews that Logan did now sits on the HCCA website at www.hillcrestdc.com. With the assistance of grant funding, the HCCA created an oral history video project that sought the opinions of longtime residents on whether Hillcrest fulfilled the criteria to be defined as a strong DC neighborhood, and to discuss those criteria. “Hillcrest has definitely engaged the neighborhood through the Neighborhood Watch Program,” Logan opined. “In short, Neighborhood Watch has had a profound impact on Ward 7 in general and the Hillcrest community in particular.” l CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 31
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Reservation 13— Dream or Nightmare? Where We Are Today by Emily Clark
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en years, four competing proposals, three administrations, two jurisdictions , one redistricting—no wonder progress on the proposed redevelopment of Reservation 13 moves at a snail’s pace and remains elusive and just out of reach.
What Is It? Where Is It?
Reservation 13 is one of the largest tracts of undeveloped land in Washington, comparable in size to the Howard University campus and much of Old Town Alexandria. The 67-acre site at the Southeast edge of the District appears in the 1791 L’Enfant plan as a discrete federal parcel, off the DC street grid and adjacent to the Hill East neighborhood.
Massachusetts and Potomac avenues both terminate at the edge of the site, which is bounded by Independence Avenue on the north, the historic Congressional Cemetery to the south, 19th Street SE to the west and the Anacostia waterfront as the eastern boundary. St. Coletta School sits on Reservation 13 land; close by are RFK Stadium and the DC Armory, as well as the Hill East residential neighborhood with historic roots. The site has housed healthcare facilities since 1846, including the DC General Hospital, which closed in 2001. Reservation 13 is now used for a hodgepodge of social services, including the DC Jail, a large family shelter and a methadone clinic. Many of the buildings, some with landmark
status, are vacant and rundown.
A Decade-Old Plan
With fanfare and community input, a Master Plan for Reservation 13 was developed in 2002 and adopted by the City Council in 2003 during the Williams administration (http://planning.dc.gov/DC/ Planning/In+Your+Neighborhood/ Wa r d s / Wa r d + 6 / S m a l l + A r e a +Plans+&+Studies/Master+Plan+for +Reservation+13+Hill+East+Waterfr ont). The plan offered a broad brush outline that called for extending the grid through the site and creating a mix of residential, retail, office and green space to enhance Capitol Hill East, while preserving more than three million square feet for public
services including health care. The master plan envisioned a town square at the Stadium/Armory metro center, green space extending to the federal park land by the river, a grand commercial area along Independence Avenue and at least 800 residential units. During the Fenty administration, the Hunt Development Group plan that Hill East residents supported seemed close to being realized. The plan maintained the lowrise character of the neighborhood and included most of what residents had asked for. Ultimately, the Hunt plan failed. And then everything changed. The economy went south, and no one was talking about grand redevelopment plans. Vincent Gray became mayor. The project stalled again. Now there is talk of piecemeal development on the two most commercially promising parcels. The mayor and Councilmember Jack Evans have suggested that the city might look into building a Redskins training facility at the site. According to the mayor’s office, there is no money to offer any incentives for development. To say that neighbors and local government officials are frustrated would be an understatement. ANC 6B Commissioner Francis Campbell, who represents the Hill East neighborhood, called the lack of progress “a bad joke that the city has perpetuated.” “This is the failure of three successive administrations to do simple tasks,” Campbell said, noting that if the city had adopted the Hunt proposal, “construction could have started two years ago and would be well on its way.”
Washington, We Have a Problem
From the Master Plan fo Reservation 13 (page 22) showing the continuation of the street grid and general uses of the areas. For the complete plan see http:// planning.dc.gov/DC/Planning/In+Your+Neighborhood/Wards/Ward+6/Small+Area+Plans+&+Studies/Master+Plan+for+Reservation+13+Hill+East+Waterfront
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Claims and counterclaims aside, Reservation 13 represents a major challenge to any developer, especially in an economic era of dollar-squeezing and lack of financial incentives from the city. Progress on development is slow for many reasons other than politics.
First, Reservation 13 was not zoned. Rather than wait for development, it was decided that the land should be pre-zoned in accordance with the master plan. The Zoning Commission approved special zoning in 2008, finalized in 2009, creating the Hill East District overlay that included Reservation 13. Even though the District had jurisdiction over Reservation 13, the land was federally owned. In 2006 the District and the federal government agreed on a land swap, but it took until 2010 to transfer the land to District ownership. To complicate matters further, Reservation 13 is now in Ward 7 as of January because of redistricting, even though it lies adjacent to the Hill East neighborhood in Ward 6 and all negotiations and plans formerly went through Ward 6. Council member Tommy Wells (Ward 6) stands firmly in support of the master plan. “There’s the master plan and the city’s comprehensive plan, and it would take a lot of work and hearings to change it,” Wells said. “The master plan with community support is how we should go forward.” Council member Yvette Alexander said that, because the issue only recently landed in her district, she would address the concerns of Ward 7 before weighing in on Reservation 13. “I plan to review the master plan with Ward 7 residents, get their input and go from there,” Alexander said, noting that the mayor had asked for RFPs for parcels F1 and G1 at the site.
Rehab, Remediation, Preservation
Since DC General Hospital closed more than a decade ago, Reservation 13 has become the go-to site (some say “dumping ground”) for social services. A spokesman for Mayor Gray asked, “Where will we take these social services, including the DC Jail? Where will they go? It’s not like any community is dying to have a homeless shelter or a methadone clinic.” Remediation issues include possible lead and asbestos in older buildings and underground tunnels. The adjacent RFK Stadium and its parking lots were created with landfill dredged from the Anacostia and may also be toxic, which might affect development of Reservation 13. Anne Archbold Hall, a former nurses’ dormitory, is one of the oldest buildings remaining on the site and has landmark designation. The building was declared
“endangered” by the DC Preservation League and is badly in need of repair. It is also uncertain how it would fit into a development plan, though the Hunt Plan included restoring the landmark as part of the project.
“We Need a Catalyst”
The mayor’s office has insisted that the idea for a Redskins training facility is just that—a suggestion among many. “This is a pro-development mayor and a pro-development community, but we need a catalyst to draw developers there without having to subsidize them,” the spokesman said, mentioning successful projects like the Verizon Center and the Nationals Ballpark. “We understand the frustrations of the community,” he said. “We want to develop Reservation 13 as much as they do, so we can get it on the tax rolls and give the neighborhood the parks and other amenities they want.”
Animal Clinic of Anacostia Candace A. Ashley, DVM 20 years of serving Capitol Hill (minutes from Capitol Hill & Southwest via 11th Street Bridge)
2210 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, SE
202.889.8900
American Express, MasterCard, Visa & Discover accepted
What Happens Next?
To realize such a project, the master plan would have to be amended or scrapped altogether, the area would have to be re-zoned and any changes would have to be approved by the City Council and the Zoning Commission. This is not likely to happen. Council Chair Kwame Brown said, “I think Hill East will be developed,” adding that he is “completely committed to the fully vetted plan the community supports.” Brown’s support is pivotal if the Mayor wants to change the Reservation 13 Master Plan. In his role as Chair of the Council, he has oversight over economic development, land dispositions and zoning, all of which reside in the Committee of the Whole Brown noted that several steps are required to move the process along, including possible amendments to the master plan, a Request for Proposals (RFP) and selection of a developer. “Then it would require a council vote to surplus the land and give it to a developer.” Meanwhile, according to ANC 6B Commissioner Brian Flahaven, the master plan worked out more than a decade ago offers the best framework for going forward. “The core of the master plan remains as viable today as it was ten years ago,” Flahaven said. “As long as this idea of a Redskins training facility is out there, it’s holding up everything.” l
Eat Fresh from the Farm Join our CSA oneacrefarm.com Locally grown vegetables delivered weekly to the Hill.
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 33
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
The Community’s Hospital A Renewed Look at United Medical Center by Candace Y.A. Montague
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anon Matchett, an expectant mother was in the advanced stages of eclampsia, a blood poisoning that occurs in pregnant women. The EMTs tried to get her into Howard or GW University Hospital, but their emergency rooms were closed. She had to go to United Medical. She delivered a stillborn daughter via C-section. The father of her baby told her that he could get her to another hospital if she wanted. He quietly explained in post surgery, “I heard this isn’t a good hospital. I can take you wherever you want to go.” Manon, a resident of Ward 8, strongly objected to being moved. “Everyone from the minute I came into the ER until I was discharged was so nice to me. The lady who delivered my meals noticed that I wasn’t eating and she asked ‘what can I get them to fix for you so you will eat?’ Some of the cleaning people stopped to pray for me. The charge nurse herself actually escorted me down to my family to make sure I would be ok. To have strangers reach out and make sure that every one of my needs were taken care of is amazing. I just can’t thank them enough.” Manon repeatedly used the word ‘wonderful’ to describe her time at United Medical. “They literally saved my life.”
began. Renovations and additions of equipment and services replaced decades of outdated things that were holding the hospital back from real progress. The Not-For-Profit Hospital Corporation unveiled the new name of the hospital: United Medical Center. The facility began to shake off the dust of its old reputation and work collectively to bring about new blood and real change.
Renewal of commitment
United Medical Center has the leadership, staff, and facility to meet
Review of the past
On April 12, 1966, the Greater Southeast Community Hospital Foundation, Incorporated opened the Morris Cafritz Memorial Hospital, named for one of its chief benefactors. It was a 380-bed facility that replaced Provident Hospital, which left in 1952. The name was changed to Greater Southeast Hospital in 1974. In subsequent years, the hospital added a nursing home, a wellness and preventive care program, and joined forces with other hospitals in the District to form an HMO for Medicaid patients. In the nineties, Greater Southeast suffered a great decline in revenue and earned a reputation for poor service. Hardship ensued for years. Eventually, the era of reversal 34 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
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most of the needs in Wards 7 and 8. Since 2008 some major changes have occurred that has pushed the hospital forward in the medical community. • UMC maintains a 120 bed licensed nursing facility that caters to the needs of the aging. • The Women’s Health Services provides pre and postnatal services as well as gynecological care. • The Emergency Department has improved their services. The fast track program now reduces the wait time to approximately 90 minutes for ER Fast Track patients.
• The Infectious Disease Center works with the Emergency Department to link patients with skin and soft tissue infections, HIV/ AIDS, pneumonia and other infections to care and support services. • The Center for Advanced Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine offers wound care for patients experiencing difficulty with wounds that won’t heal. • Children’s National Medical Center has a $14 million state of the art pediatric emergency department to meet the medical needs of children under age 18. Their mission to provide excellent patient care and obtain positive clinical outcomes is fully supported by the staff. The staff strives to ensure that every patient is treated with the absolute best service. “A lot of the people who work here want to be here. They believe, not only in the institution, but that this community deserves quality care,” says Chenelle Harris; former patient turned Chief Marketing Officer for UMC. Questions about the level of care and service still loom among some citizens. Frank DeLisi, CEO of the United Medical, responds that customer service is a top priority for United Medical. They have conducted focus groups and given surveys to get feedback from the community. Each employee must go through an eight-week training on customer service in the Lean Six Sigma principal. “We will treat our patients
The Center for Advanced Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Medicine.
and all that it entails. We are very committed to serving our community. We’ve done a lot of things to enhance the patient’s experience. It’s a work in progress. We value the community’s perspective and we want them to feel welcome here. If they have issues, we want them to make them known to us. We will address them.”
Revenue: Lost and Found
Stable funding for United Medical Center has been a volatile process for many years. But labeling them as a burden on the city’s budget would be misleading. The hospital was near bankruptcy in 1999 before being acquired by Doctors Community Healthcare Corporation of Scottsdale, Arizona. Sadly, in 2002, Doctors Community Healthcare filed for bankruptcy but the hospital stayed open. In 2007, Specialty Hospitals of America struck a deal with Doctors Community Hospital to acquire the Greater Southeast. The District invested $79 million as a part of the acquisition. But Specialty eventually had trouble making the payments for the hospital. In 2010, the District took over the hospital and sued Specialty for the balance owed. In a settlement agreed upon in February of this year, the city paid $6 million and forgave $900,000 in debt. The institution has paid off debts to the previous owner and made capital improvements on their own dime. Council Member David Catania (I), who has fought
valiantly for the hospital, says it’s doing very well in spite of financial trouble. “For nearly half of fiscal year 2011 the hospital was not able to collect money owed to it by insurance companies and individuals because the District’s Chief Financial Officer failed to install a manager for the critically important business office. Despite having one and at times two hands tied behind its back, the hospital was able to generate a multi-million dollar profit and pay down millions in old debt. That is truly incredible considering the last decade has been plagued by ownership and management upheaval and financial losses.” Thanks to the renovations, upgrades, and a change in the mission, United Medical Center posted an excellent performance in FY 2011. In the past year, UMC hired 65 residents of Wards 7 and 8 and is Ward 8’s largest employer. The adult emergency department had a 16 percent volume increase. Outpatient clinics averaged about 1,000 visits per month, which is a 46 percent increase in a year. At the end of FY 2011, UMC posted a net operating income of $2.5 million; the first time in a decade. It has been a 46-year journey for United Medical Center to reach the point where they are today. The highs and lows serve as benchmarks for progress. They are a long ways from the days of Cafritz Memorial but with the right support and restored faith they can press on to become the beacon of hope on Southern Avenue. l
An evening of Art and Music in Support o f t h e T w o R i v e r s C o m m u n i t y • 5 M ay 2012 • 6:30pm • Two Rivers Public Charter School • 1227 4th Street NE (Corner of 4th and Florida) • Tickets a r e $ 8 5 • B l a c k T i e f o r t h e B r av e FramingtheFuture.org
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H
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EAST WASHINGTON LIFE thing to happen in Anacostia since the Big Chair and the introduction of Eat, Shop, Live Anacostia, on Saturday April 14th, Historic Anacostia will come to life from noon to midnight with over 100 performers, over 30 visual artists and 10 pop-up spaces. Along the mainstreets of the Village of Anacostia, Good Hope RD SE and Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, the following spaces and artists will be participating:
Nikki Peele Director of Economic Development of ADC in front of the new HIVE storefront.
Dispatches from the Village of Anacostia article & photos by Phillip Hutinet
• 2315 MLK Ave SE – America’s Islamic Heritage Museum • 1208 Maple view Pl SE – Earl Rodriguez • 2208 MLK Ave SE Downstairs – Vivid Solutions DC Print Lab • 2208 MLK Ave SE Upstairs – Sam Capies, Rachel Kerwin and Nosheen Ahmad • 2021 MLK Ave SE Downstairs – Anacostia Gallery and Boutique • 1922 MLK Ave SE – Tendani Mpulubusi El • 1918 MLK Ave SE – Ryan Doyle • Corner of MLK and Good Hope RD – MPD 7th District Films & Fun • 1227 Good Hope RD SE – Sheila Crider • 1231 Good Hope RD SE – Anacostia Design Center: Bruce McNeil, Misty Brown, Dino Almaguer, Julian Weaver, Brian Evans, Michael Lynn Thompson and the Serenity Players (Pamela Jafari). • 1241 Good Hope RD SE – Honfleur Gallery – Amber Robles Gordon • 1320 Good Hope RD SE- African Heritage Dancers and Drummers
Fireside Jamaican Closes, But Its Food Lives On
Much to the dismay of the community, Fireside Jamaican restaurant on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue has closed its doors. Purveyors of the best veggie, chicken and beef patties in the city and producers of the one of the best curry chicken dishes, regular patrons are already lamenting the closure of this Anacostia mainstay. While we have not gotten official word of the reason especially as the neighborhood is on the ascent, we have been told by several employees that the rent was high and as a result the owner decided to close the business. However, one of Fireside’s former cooks, Erica Turner, is still offering the restaurant’s signature dishes- Chicken Curry, Jerk Chicken and Curry Shrimp. They are served with either white rice or peas and rice. Text in your order or call Erica at 202-710-5616 for next day delivery. The chicken dishes are $5 and the shrimp is $10. Don’t forget to tip your ambulant chef !
Are you ready for LUMEN8Ancostia?
In what is shaping up to be the most exciting
36 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
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Sign for Lumen8Anacostia, opening April 14.
• 2020 Shannon Place – Verbal Gymnastics Variety Show and “Party behind the Big Chair” The Old Police Warehouse at 2235 Shannon Place SE and 2250 Railroad Ave SE (Rear) will come alive thanks to Pink Line Project and the Alliance Française. Pink Line Project will be showcasing dozens of local artists, a pop up restaurant compliments of Busboys and Poets, live music and a dozen or so food trucks. The Alliance Française has invited international DJ’s Rone and Koudlam to perform along with Belgian dance company t.r.a.n.s.i.t.s.c.a.p.e and Belgian Performance Artist Lise Duclaux. In the Lightbox along Rail Road Avenue, see local photographer Tommie Adams and Peerless Creatives’ Skateboarding Event. Feel free to leave your car in the driveway and grab your bike as WABA (Washington Area Bicyclist Association) will operate their famous bike valet for festival goers. LUMEN8 is funded with a grant from Artplace America via the DC Office of Planning. Visit the website for daily updates at www.lumen8anacostia.com.
Distinguished Artist Award Presented by Honfleur Gallery
The first Annual East of the River Distinguished Artist Award recognizes a current East of the Anacostia River artist for artistic excellence as well as significant impact on the DC cultural life. One EOR artist is honored with this $5,000 award each year, with funding from the Gautier Family Nominations for 2012’s East of the River Distinguished Artist Award are due by June 15, 2012.
Who is eligible?
Artists who currently live East of the Anacostia River neighborhoods in all disciplines—including dance, film, literature, music, theater, photography and visual arts—whose careers have made a substantial impact on the arts in the District of Columbia may apply. Artists must have lived East of Anacostia River for at least one year and worked in District of Columbia for more than five years. No one may receive the award more than once. No posthumous awards will be made.
What is the purpose of the award?
The award celebrates the achievements and contributions of East of the River artists who, individually and collectively, have made an impact for the wealth of arts in Washington, DC. Although these East of the River artists have been working in the District of Columbia over a number of years, their role in the DC cultural scene is often overlooked. In recognizing them, the award will help document the East of the River cultural history
Erica Turner, purveyor of fine Jamaican cuisine.
and continue the long succession of EOR artists. This award is the newest component of the ARCH Development Corporation support for local artists and will be given on an annual basis.
Who chooses the Distinguished Artist?
The panel is composed of individuals representing a variety of artistic disciplines and others well versed in the history of the arts in the District of Columbia and with specific knowledge of the East of the River neighborhoods. This panel then recommends a candidate to the ARCH’s board of directors.
When is the Distinguished Artist announced?
The artist will be notified by August 1, 2012. The East of the River Distinguished Artist Award will include an awards ceremony at the closing ceremony of the Honfleur Gallery Annual East of the River Show, currently planned for September 7, 2012.
How to apply?
Go to http://www.honfleurgallery.com/gallery/calls-to-artists/ and scroll down to the bottom of the page.
The HIVE Gets A Makeover For “Sidehustle” Saturdays
Last month, we reported on the Anacostia façade improvement project. After several weeks of construction by local firm HEP, the HIVE now has a brand new, gleaming storefront to welcome its tenants and passers-by. The HIVE is Ward 8’s only co-working space and business incubator and houses dozens of small businesses and non-profits.
“It is hard out here for an entrepreneur” says Nikki Peele, Directory of Marketing and Economic Development for ARCH Development Corporation. “Between personal and professional commitments many of us have full-time aspirations squeezed into part-time schedules- what we aspiring entrepreneurs like to call our ‘sidehustle’.” Peele has begun a series of Saturday networking events and workshops geared toward helping entrepreneurs launch or expand their “sidehustle”. So whether your’s is graphic design, IT, consulting, fashion, writing, these Saturday events are your opportunity to make a connection or two. Events are free and open to the public. Wi-Fi is provided, so bring your laptop and your business cards. Space is limited so RSVP is required. The next Sidehustle Saturday is scheduled for April 28. To get on the list and RSVP, do the following: 1. Send an email to nikki@respindc.com with Name, Email, Phone, and sidehustle type or aspiration. 2. Confirmations will be sent out via email. Guest list closes on Wednesday, April 25th @ 5pm. (excess RSVPs will be waitlisted) To learn more about The HIVE and our membership options visit us on the web at www. thedchive.com Phil Hutinet is the Chief Operating Officer at ARCH Development Corporation (ADC). ADC is a twenty year old 501[c][3] not-for-profit community based organization founded on the belief that arts and the creative economy can be employed as part of a comprehensive, synergistic approach to community revitalization in the Anacostia community of Washington, DC. Visit them online at www.archdevelopment.org l CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 37
EAST WASHINGTON LIFE
Healthy Corners
article & photos by Candace Y.A. Montague
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ndrew Cho is the owner and operator of Martin Luther King Grocery in Ward 8. He has been there for 27 years and is a staple in the community. He operates the store, interacts with customers, and manages employees. Andrew once tried to sell produce in his store by purchasing it in large quantities from a local wholesaler. Most of it spoiled and that loss of revenue ended his brush with produce sales. “We were buying directly from the wholesalers. We had to buy big boxes at one time. We only sold about 5 or 10 percent at that time and threw away the rest. Or in my case I gave it away.” Now, Cho’s store, MLK Grocery, is a business partner in DC Central Kitchen’s Healthy Corner
Hunger Solutions, The Department of Small and Local Business Development, DC Central Kitchen and the Department of Health that created the Healthy Corner Store Project here in DC. Corner Storeowners are offered the produce at a rate that is less than what they would pay at the cash and carry or wholesale distributor. DC Central Kitchen provides delivery, set up, shelving and refrigeration, and maintenance. The first month of the partnership is free.
Supply versus demand
Andrew Cho from MLK Grocery
Kowanda Burwell, a delivery driver for DC Central Kitchen.
Store Initiative. DC Central Kitchen has now partnered with nearly 40 stores. Cho says things have picked up and his losses are much less now. But how will he market his produce in an attractive way to entice his Ward 8 customers to buy them. And more importantly, what will it take to get communities to see the value in purchasing fresh food.
Food deserts
Obesity in America is not just a
38 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
problem. It’s an epidemic. Low-income areas, in particular, are disproportionately affected by obesity. In DC, nearly 31% of African-Americans adults and 23% of AfricanAmerican children are classified as obese. Wards with the fewest number of grocery stores have the highest rates of obesity. Ward 8, for example, has the fewest options for healthy foods and the highest rates of obesity in the city. Wards 5, 7, and 8 are classified as food deserts because of their limited access to | APRIL 2012
Having fresh produce stocked, attractively displayed, and affordable is only one piece of this nutrition puzzle. The customer’s demand is the other part of the puzzle. So
Danny Lee, owner of Menick’s store on Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave.
grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Building a grocery store in a neighborhood can take years to manifest. Meanwhile, communities still need healthy alternatives to the high fat, high sodium, calorie dense pre-packaged foods that are typically seen on corner store shelves. Council member Mary Cheh sponsored the Feed DC Act of 2010 which helps existing corner stores sell fresh produce and healthy foods. It was this act along with the collaborative efforts of DC
far the customers who have taken notice of the produce are happy to have it and purchase it on a regular basis. Joelle Johnson, Local Initiatives and Procurement Coordinator for DC Central Kitchen, says the customers have given positive feedback so far. “They say this program is wonderful because they don’t have to travel as far to the grocery store. Once people realize it’s there, they really appreciate having that option.”
Getting new customers interested in the produce presents another hurdle. Some corner store customers view buying produce as a hassle at times because it takes time to prepare vegetables to eat and they simply don’t like certain fruits and vegetables. Dr. Autumn Saxton-Ross, Program Specialist for the Nutrition and Physical Fitness Bureau of the DC Department of Health, said, “We know that in that area of the city it’s going to take hardcore grassroots community outreach. Through a grant from Kaiser, we are paying a community-based chef to do in-store cooking demonstrations and quick taste tests. We are also designing ‘Freggie’ bucks, which are coupons for up to two dollars so that people can go to their local corner store and try some of the products out. It’s a behavior change. Behavior change doesn’t come from pretty vegetables and a sign. It comes from a person tasting the products and believing that they can incorporate that into their kitchen and their lifestyle. And that takes time.” Pricing will also entice customers to buy produce from the corner store. Since the fruits and vegetables are sold to the owners at a discounted rate, they can offer the products in their establishment at a much lower rate than grocery stores.
The Bottom Line
Actively engaging the storeowner in selling produce is another piece of the puzzle. Many corner storeowners are discouraged from buying produce because in order to get a delivery of fruits and vegetables, the owner would have to buy a lot at one time. If customers don’t buy the produce, it goes bad and will ultimately be a waste of money. Storeowners hesitate in taking that risk and favor selling chips, candy, and soda, which almost assuredly bring in profits. However, Cho says his customers love the choice of getting produce at his store. “Fruits sell better than vegetables. And it’s consistent. That’s what I want as a business owner is something that consis-
tently sells.” Corner storeowners are not always the most interactive when it comes to sales. Language barriers and mistrust often times breaks down communication and store operators stays behind the bulletproof glass. They are also pressed for time. Between running the cash register, keeping inventory, receiving deliveries, and managing employees there is very little time to deal with the logistics of presentation. They keep the shelves stocked with products but few owners invest much time in shelving, cleanliness, and creating an attractive space for customers to shop. Joelle Johnson says marketing is a challenge for owners. “You’re doing something totally different in these stores. Most of them had never sold produce before so you’re bringing in an entirely new product. We’re working on better signage, which will help a lot with drawing the customer’s attention to the shelf and then ‘saying there’s more produce in the fridge’. Normally, vendors will come in and ask what [the owner] wants. Then he fills up the shelf and provides marketing stickers and signage. We’re trying to replicate that with our produce deliveries.” In order to get the customers to buy into getting their produce from the corner store, the store operators must indeed sell their own products. Conquering obesity and filling in the gaps from food deserts is going to take more than just an occasional sale of a few pieces of fruit. It will take presenting healthy, reliable options and education to change the mindset of a community that is so very often short changed. The partnerships of the Healthy Corners Initiative lay the foundation for restoring food access and getting people on the road to wellness. If you would like to serve on the community advisory board for the Healthy Corners Initiative, contact Dr. Autumn Saxton-Ross at 202442-9018 or email her autumn. saxton-ross@dc.gov. l
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EAST WASHINGTON LIFE
Jazz Avenues
by Steve Monroe of Andrew Cyrille and his big band that night last month at the Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street, with the master percussionist Cyrille, longtime band mate of Cecil Taylor, leading an orchestral evening of mostly his own compositions. The players included Cyrille’s trumpet friend Clay Jenkins, Brad Linde, the Atlas jazz series curator, who held down the bass clarinet and baritone saxophone chair, Brian Settles, Duke Ellington School of the Arts grad, who has moved on to fame in New York and elsewhere, on tenor sax, and rising star Donvonte McCoy on trumpet. The music was hard charging and melancholy, intense and sweeping with Cyrille a whirling yet efficient blur of intensity with his rapping and shuffling on drums and insistent chiming on cymbals
Veteran drummer Maurice Lyles, a frequent performer on Friday Jazz Nights at Westminster Presbyterian Church and other D.C. venues, spoke about his career in jazz at a forum last month at UDC. Photo: Bababebop Jazz Images
Appreciating Maurice …
Thanks to the efforts of W.A. “Bill” Brower and Dr. Judith A. Korey of the University of the District of Columbia’s Jazz Archives, veteran drummer Maurice Lyles had a night of appreciation last month that was a history and life lesson for the good crowd that attended. The event served to remind us we must appreciate our jazz heritage this month, designated Jazz Appreciation Month 11 years ago by the Smithsonian Institution, and actually every month and bestow flowers while we may. Lyles, 84, who has played during his career with Buck Hill, Leo Parker, Jimmy Heath, Earl “Fatha” Hines, Roy Eldridge, Sarah Vaughn and many other greats, spoke about his beginnings in North Carolina with the help of the visual display of photos and artifacts by Brower on a big screen. The two took us through a spoken and visual tour of Lyles’ growing up in D.C., and his playing career here – at places like the Howard Theater and Crystal Caverns -- and in Philadelphia, Atlantic City and elsewhere. Lyles talked about the music’s origins
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among African Americans back in the day, from the work songs sang by railroad men, and the plantation songs by those in the cotton fields, saying, “… and this music that we are calling jazz, was disrespected for a very long time, they called it the devil’s music … and I think what happened was that all these people who were doing the most fantastic kind of music making were African Americans. So they had to deal with the discrimination that they faced during that period …” And Lyles talked also of the gospel music rhythms that you can also hear in jazz, most vivid in jazz versions of “When the Saints Go Marching In.” The event at UDC highlighted the work of Korey and others who have made the Felix E. Grant Jazz Archives there a significant repository of the heritage, with recordings, books, periodicals, posters, concert programs, newspaper clippings, photographs and other archival materials. See jazzarchives.org for more information.
Caught… Andrew Cyrille
The mode was free bop as master arranger Mark Masters called the music
| APRIL 2012
Wammie Winners
Congrats to Afro Blue, top acapella group; the Afro Bop Alliance, big band/ swing recording; Esther Haynes, jazz vocalist; Bruce Swaim Quartet, jazz duo/ group; Set h Kibel, jazz instrumentalist; and “My Heart Stood Still,” Bruce Swaim, jazz recording – all were winners at the 26th Annual Washington Area Music Association awards event in February.
Appreciating Wes …
As the Smithsonian celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month, one special event is the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra’s performance, “Wes Montgomery’s Incredible Jazz Guitar,” featuring the unit’s small ensemble at 7:30 April 14 at Baird Auditorium, National Museum of Natural History. Royce Campbell will hold down the guitar chair for the date, highlighting one of the major artists who got this writer into jazz many moons ago. For more on JAM events, go to smithsonianjazz.org. Steve Monroe is a Washington, D.C. writer who can be reached at steve@jazzavenues. com and followed at www.twitter.com/ jazzavenues. l
April Highlights: Howard University Jazz Ensemble, April 13, Westminster Church ... Barry Harris, April 13-14, Bohemian Caverns ... Keiko Matsui, April 19, Blues Alley ... Doug Lawrence Quartet, April 20-21, Twins Jazz ... Jon Faddis, April 25, Blues Alley ... Ayanna Gregory, April 26, Bohemian Caverns ... DC Jazz Composers Collective CD Release Party, April 26, Twins Jazz ... Cecille McLoran Salvant, April 27, Kennedy Center ... Thad Wilson Presents, April 27, Westminster Church ... Orrin Evans, April 27-28, Bohemian Caverns ... Anacostia River & Jazz Festival, April 28, Anacostia Park … Dave Samuels and the Caribbean Jazz Project, April 28, Kennedy Center ... Calvin Jones Big Band Festival, April 30, UDC ...
April Birthdays: Harry Carney 1; Booker Little 2; Jimmy McGriff 3; Stanley Turrentine 5; Randy Weston, Gerry Mulligan 6; Billie Holiday, Freddie Hubbard 7; Carmen McRae 8; Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau 12; Gene Ammons 14; Richard Davis 15; Bennie Green, Herbie Mann 16; Lionel Hampton, Tito Puente 20; Slide Hampton 21; Charles Mingus 22; Johnny Griffin, Joe Henderson 24; Ella Fitzgerald 25; Teddy Edwards 26; Connie Kay 27; Duke Ellington 29; Percy Heath 30.
Come Down To The River Anacostia River Jazz Festival, Water Tours and Earth Day article & photo by John Muller
H
as it been awhile since you’ve been down to the river? If so there are a handful of ambitious events in April from cleanup efforts to family entertainment and recreational activities that will bring hundreds of people together around the river. “This is all about connecting our communities to Anacostia Park”, says Alex Romero, Superintendent of National Capital Parks-East. “So much time and energy has been put towards the river walk, now we need to get people to see all the great work that’s been done and more what is possible.” On Saturday, April 28 the first annual Anacostia River and Jazz Festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Anacostia Park Skating Pavilion, 1900 Anacostia Drive, SE.
"Save Anacostia Park" sign on Howard Avenue SE.
“It will be an open house to enjoy the river and area. You can paddle here, ride your bike, walk, take the Metro, or use a vehicle,” Romero says. During the afternoon there will be live jazz on two stages. Expected groups are the East of the River Boys and Girls Club Steel Band, Tony Small and the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington Teen Arts Performance Troupe, a jazz harmonicast, and Frédéric Yonnet & Marcus Johnson. Additionally, Jazz Tales and Traditions with Victor Provost, named the best Jazz Percussionist by Washington City Paper, will be a lead performer. The festival will also be an opportunity for educators, parents, and students to gather information and literature about environmental education on the living Anacostia River, Romero said.
From The River Side
“If we all do a little, a lot gets done,” says Jim Foster, President of the Anacostia Watershed Society, an advocacy organization dedicated to restoring the river’s health. After more than two decades of dedicated hand-to-hand cleanups and community outreach, there is a newfound momentum towards river recreation after recent infrastructure improvements including the recent lying down of a bike and running sidewalk on Anacostia Drive helping to alleviate the longstanding conflict between cars and bikes. The festival will provide guided water tours with members of AWS aboard each boat and canoe. Foster says this is in order to “get to people who might not have had the opportunity to paddle around. People will
have the chance to spend some time seeing the river from the river side instead of the land side.” The Anacostia Watershed Society, National Park Service, and other partners have been working with the Chesapeake Bay Gateways network to identify more access points to the Anacostia River and enhance these sites. “It’s surprising how little public access there is,” says Foster, “A lot of the bay is privately owned.”
Earth Day, Fort Dupont, & Kingman Island Bluegrass & Folk Festival
This year’s Earth Day Service Day will be coordinated on the morning of Saturday, April 21. Cleanups are planned for nearly forty sites throughout the Anacostia Watershed in DC and Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland. The celebration will be held at RFK Stadium’s Parking Lot 6 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. To volunteer, contact Maddie Koenig at 301-699-6204 ext. 109 or mkoenig@anacostiaws.org. Later in the day on April 21, there will be an afternoon of jazz at Fort Dupont from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Many of the groups playing the Anacostia River & Jazz Festival will catch their warm-up here. The Anacostia River will be busy with activity Saturday, April 28th. Up river from Anacostia Park Kingman Island will be hosting the third annual Kingman Island Bluegrass & Folk Festival from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. There will be five bands performing and food trucks, beer, and wine all day. There is a free shuttle service to the island from the Stadium/Armory Metro Station and free parking. Entrance to the island is Parking Lot 6. l
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KIDS & FAMILY
Courtesy of the Washington Nationals
Kids Opening Day at National’s Park Free Ryan Zimmerman Jersey for first 10,000 fans 12 and under on Apr 22, 1:35 p.m. at the game against the Miami Marlins. It’s Screech’s birthday and kids can run the bases after the game. Guests can also visit the kids-oriented Family Fun Area near the Center Field Gate, across from the Red Porch Restaurant. Featuring several interactive games, including the Exxon Strike Zone, Build-A-Bear Workshop and Jungle Gym, the Family Fun Area provides a great deal of fun for the youngest Nationals fans. Tickets $5, up. washington.nationals.mlb.com
Kids & Family Notebook by Kathleen Donner
What’s New At The Zoo at THEARC
People Animals Love (PAL) Club and City Year present “What’s New At The Zoo,” a celebration of the human animal bond through songs and skits that pay homage to zoos and zoo animals. Students from Stanton Elementary will sing and dance as panda bears, giraffes, elephants, monkeys and even participate in a call and response with a zookeeper. This event is free and open to the public. However, please request tickets by contacting eric@peopleanimalslove. org. Friday, May 11, 7:00 p.m. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
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TMZ (Teen Movie Zone) at Anacostia Library
Every Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m., movies are shown that are appropriate for ages 12-19. Anacostia Neighborhood Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-715-7707. dclibrary.org/anacostia
LIFT-DC Family Day
LIFT-DC celebrates 1 year at THEARC! Join them for a family-friendly, birthday celebration of all their work together in Ward 8. Activities include a moon bounce, face-painting, DJ and free family portraits for members of the LIFT-DC community. In collaboration with Children’s Health Project and the Boys & Girls Club at THEARC, additional activities may include community health outreach and kickball
games on the playground. Free. Saturday, Apr 21, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
JAM at Fort Dupont
This afternoon of Jazz features the Boys and Girls Club Steel Band and Jazz Tales and Traditions with Victor Provost, Tony Small the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington Teen Arts Performance Troupe. Apr 21, 1:00-4:00 PM. Fort Dupont Dr. SE. 202-426-7723.
Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative Family Community Conference
This year’s theme is “Strengthening Families, En-
Looking for a school for your 7th to 12th grade student? gaging Communities. Sustaining the Movement.”The event features workshops with CEU credits, free childcare, moon bounce, clowns, mobile units, live entertainment and over 65 free vendors. Free food and free admission. Saturday, Apr 21, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. A. Kiger Savoy Elementary School, 2400 Shannon Pl. SE (across of the Anacostia Metro Station). 202889-1425. fsfsc.org
Kidical Mass DC to Teach ABC’s of Family Biking
DDOT Safe Routes to School Program, Kidical Mass DC and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) are pleased to announce the first “ABC’s of Family Biking” event. This free event, the first of its kind in the Greater Washington area, will celebrate the joy of biking with children and introduce local parents to the tools, skills and equipment that can help them start biking with their kids. Saturday, Apr. 21 (rain date, Apr. 22), 11:00 a.m.2:00 p.m, at Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan, 215 G St. NE. The ABC’s of Family Biking” will provide an opportunity to talk to area parents who bike with children of all ages, from infants and toddlers through school-age; feature the bicycles and equipment available at local bike shops to help parents bike safely with their children; teach basic riding skills to children through free classes with WABA instructors; present a special class to parents and their children on group riding skills for families that are interested in forming “biketrains” for children to ride to and from school in groups with adult supervision; demonstrate riding skills with an easy group ride to help all participants practice their new skills and meet other families that share their interest in biking. For more information, visit KidicalMassDC. blogspot.com and click on “ABC’s of Family Biking,” or contact Megan Odett, Kidical Mass DC’s organizer, at KidicalMassDC@ gmail.com.
Open House: Saturday, April 21, 1 to 4 pm Health and Wellness Center Grand Opening: Friday, May 18, 5-8 pm
Come to IDEA Public Charter School’s open house and learn about our technology programs and our JROTC program! IDEA students get the opportunity to participate in paid internships, exciting field trips, earn professional computer certifications and work on hands-on projects. This year, IDEA students will get to cheer on the district champion football and the basketball team in our brand-new gym! This health and wellness facility is a sprawling addition that houses a health suite, a full-size basketball court, a jogging track, weight room and much, much more! Get a NEW IDEA!
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202.399.4750 | www.ideapcs.org
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Do you want to put your child on the PATH to college?
Coyaba Kids. Photo: Enoch Chan
Dance Place: Intergenerational Celebration Enroll your student at DC Scholars PCS now for the 2012-2013 school year! At DC Scholars Public Charter School your child will receive: H Rigorous preparation in reading, writing and math H Extended school day and year H Supportive disciplinary system H A variety of after school pro grams and school trips! At DC Scholars PCS we work together to ensure that our students embody our four student core values and follow the PATH to college:
Prepared Attentive Thoughtful Hardworking DC Scholars Public Charter School is free and open to all students who are DC residents. We are currently enrolling preschool through third grade students Contact us to learn more and fill out an application!
Website: www.dcscholars.org Phone: 202-559-6138 Email: info@dcscholars.org Twitter: @dcscholarspcs DC Scholars PCS will not discriminate in the enrollment process, or in any way limit enrollment, based on a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, language spoken, intellectual or athletic ability, measures of achievement or aptitude, or status as a student with special needs.
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Dance Place presents a showcase of their Kids on the Move students and Coyaba Dance Theater’s students who participate in African, ballet, tap, hip hop and more. Students of all ages come together for this uplifting, intergenerational concert. May 5, 4:00 p.m. $10-$15. To purchase tickets, visit danceplace.org/dance-performances/intergenerational-celebration or call 202-269-1600. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org
Chill with the Duke
Join them Monday, Apr 30, 10:30-11:15 a.m. for stories and music to introduce children to the wonders of Duke Ellington, one of the most famous jazz musicians and composers. Ages 3-5. For more information, call 202-2812583. Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. dclibrary. org/dorothy
College Search Do’s and Don’t’s
On Apr 17, 6:00-7:30 p.m., choosing the right college and who should write your recommendations will be discussed at the MLK Library College Information Center. Light dinner will be served. For more information, call 202442-8398 or email tmurray-fisher@reach4success.org. 901 G St. NW, room 324. reach4success.org
USA Science & Engineering Festival
Their mission is to re-invigorate the interest of our nation’s youth in science, technology, engineering and math by producing and presenting the most compelling, exciting, educational and entertaining science festival in the United States. The 2nd USA Science & Engineering Festival will feature over 3,000 fun, interactive exhibits, more than 100 stage shows and 33 author presentations. New this year: the USA Science & Engineering Festival Book Fair, and a Career Pavilion for high-school students that includes a College Fair, a Job Fair and a Meet the Scientist/Engineer Networking area. Free admission. Apr 28, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and Apr 29, 10:00
a.m.-4:00 p.m. Walter E. Washington Convention Center. usasciencefestival.org
We All Can Play a Part in Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect
This April and throughout the year, the East River Family Strengthening Collaborative encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making Ward 7 a better place for children and families. By ensuring that parents have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for their children, we can help promote children’s social and emotional wellbeing and prevent child maltreatment within families and communities. Research shows that when parents possess six protective factors, the risk for neglect and abuse diminish and optimal outcomes for children, youth, and families are promoted. The six protective factors are nurturing and attachment, knowledge of parenting and of child and youth development, parental resilience, social connections, concrete supports for parents and social and emotional development well-being. The East River Family Strengthening Collaborative is sponosoring a Child Abuse Prevention Month event on Friday, Apr 20, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library. For more information about child abuse prevention month activities during the month of April and throughout the year, contact Chynna Haughton at chaughton@erfsc.org or call 202397-7300, ext 116. erfsc.org
The Washington Ballet Summer Intensive 2012
The Washington Ballet @ THEARC’S Summer Dance Program consists of four weeks of study starting June 25 and ending July 20, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m.3:00 p.m. A total of 75 students will be accepted to the program (25 students per level). There are three levels: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3/4. Students age 7, up are eligible. Space is limited and registration is granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact Mary Wroth, School Coordinator for registration and audition information at 202-2744533 or mwroth@washingtonballet. org. Every student requires a $30 registration fee and the tuition is based on a sliding scale determined by household income and family size as well as the student’s class level. thearcdc.org
Summer Institute in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Research
The Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt is offering a five-day program for the purpose of increasing the awareness of and providing opportunities for girls to explore non-traditional career fields with research scientists, mathematicians and engineers. Middle school girls entering grades 7 and 8 with at least a B average in science or math are eligible to apply. Application can be found at education. gsfc.nasa.gov/sister/Sister_application_2012.pdf. Applications must be submitted via fax by Apr 20 to 301286-1655. For more information, contact Terri Patterson, Office of Higher Education, 301-286-4398 or Marion Carson, Equal Opportunity Program Office at 301-286-0628.
Preschool Story Time at Deanwood Library
Every Thursday at 10:15 a.m., join them for picture books, rhymes, fingerplays and more. Ages 2-5. Deanwood Library, 1350 49th St. NE. 202698-1175. dclibrary.org/deanwood
DCPS Receives Across the Board Increase in Lottery Applications
District of Columbia Public Schools experienced an across-the-
board increase in applications for the annual Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, and K-12 Out-of-Boundary lottery with strong gains at the preschool and pre-kindergarten levels reflecting a continuing trend of growth in those grades. This year, DCPS schools received a total 7,299 lottery applications, an increase of about 9.5% over the 2011 lottery. Much of the increase reflects continued strong interest in early childhood programs with 4,106 applications for seats at the preschool and pre-K levels. The 10 schools to receive the most applications saw the bulk of requests at the preschool and pre-K levels, including Maury Elementary in Ward 6 and Bancroft Elementary in Ward 1-two schools new to the top 10. Increases in preschool and pre-K applications reflect a coordinated effort led by the DCPS Office of Early Childhood Education to engage families and caregivers about the importance of enrolling our youngest learners in quality education programs and to explain and assist them with the application process. dcps.dc.gov
How to Find Out if Your Child Has Been Exposed to Lead
Did you know that much of the District of Columbia’s housing stock still contains lead paint? The District’s lead laws are there to protect residents from harmful exposure to lead. But sometimes, exposure can still occur, and the youngest of our children are those who are at greatest risk of harmful health effects. To see if your child is being exposed to lead, ask your pediatrician to take a blood sample, which they are required to do for all DC children, at both ages 1 and 2. For more information, visit ddoe.dc.gov/lead or call 202-535-2600.
Casey Trees Accepting High School Summer Employment Applications
Casey Trees has begun accepting applications for its High School Summer Crewjobs program. This year marks the ninth season, which will run from June 18-Aug 3. Selected students are trained in proper tree care, then travel in teams by bicycle or truck to former Casey Trees planting sites across DC to water, weed and mulch trees that have CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H
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been in the ground for less than two years. Crew members work 35 hours, Monday-Friday, for $9 an hour. Applicants must be 16 or older, be enrolled in or just graduating high school, demonstrate an interest in the environment, lift 40 pounds and be willing and able to work outdoors in all weather conditions with a variety of landscaping tools. Applications must be completed online in one sitting and are due by May 18. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis and finalists will participate in all-day field tryouts on June 18 and 19, when they learn firsthand the type of tree-care work they would be doing during the program. More information regarding the Summer Crew program, including the online application, can be found at caseytrees. org/summercrew.
Kids Set Sail 2012
Community Child Development Center “A Child’s World for Learning” Open Year round 6:30am to 6:00pm Ages 2 to 4 plus School age Developmentally Appropriate Programs Toilet Training • Certified Educators Hot Balanced Meals • Educational Field Trips Tuition Based on Income Two Locations 4021 Minnesota Ave NE Washington DC 20019
1105 50th St., NE Washington DC 20019
202-397-1170
202-397-8754
Kids Set Sail offers beginner and intermediate courses for ages 7-14 over the course of 6 one-week sessions throughout the summer. Beginner students will learn basic small boat sailing and have the opportunity to become US Sailing Small Boat Level One certified. Intermediate students will learn race techniques and build up their navigational skills, with the opportunity to become US Sailing Small Boat Level Two Certified. US Sailing certified instructors are always on board, but youth work together to run and boat. Students with some prior sailing experience will really benefit from our intermediate sessions; although they accommodate all sailing levels. Both on land and on the water, their energetic instructors use a fun combination of games and drills to teach sailing concepts. At Kids Set Sail, fun is an integral part of the program. DC Sail offers partial scholarships. 202-547-1250. dcsail.org
Online Homework Help for Teens
Visit dclibrary.org/teens/homework 24 hours a day to find information (including fulltext magazine and newspaper articles) to help teens with their homework. Areas of assistance are art, biography, Black studies, encyclopedias, general reference, history, current affairs, social sciences, languages, Latino studies, literature, local newspapers, magazines, mathematics, music, religion and beliefs, science and testing.
Shuttle Discovery Family Weekend
Special exhibits, programs, and activities will be presented during this family weekend, with offerings designed for every age group, from pre-K youngsters to older adults. The history and achievements of the 30-year space shuttle program, which lasted from 1981 until 2011, will be showcased. In addition, the weekend will also focus on the future of space exploration. Activities will cover continuing activities on 46 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
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the ISS; how we are learning to live and work in space; and preparation for exploring farther into the solar system. Many of the offerings will be interactive, allowing visitors to imagine the possibilities of exploring space. Throughout the weekend, specialists from the Museum and NASA will be performing work on Discovery; the public is invited to watch and ask questions. Apr 21-22, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Free. Parking is $15. Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA. nasm.si.edu
Upscale Yard Sale
Friendship News Network, a program of Friendship Public Charter Schools, is hosting a sale and student crafts fair at Chamberlain School, Saturday, Apr 28, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., 1345 Potomac Ave SE. (between 12th and 13th across from Harris Teeter). The sale will offer designer clothes, shoes, purses, costume jewelry, small furniture and appliances. Featured prominently will be the handcrafted artwork of Friendship’s many student entrepreneurs. Proceeds will help raise funds for FNN’s June student trip to Costa Rica. Now in its 7th year, Friendship News Network is an award-winning media enterprise run by students from grades 4-12 at seven schools in Washington, DC and one in Baltimore. With guidance from media professionals and teachers, FNN student reporters learn to use all forms of electronic media to research and investigate news for their website ourfnn.com and their magazine, Rated-T.
DC SCORES Inspired Art Gala
Join DC SCORES for an evening of student voice and artistic vision at the third annual Inspired Art Gala, featuring a silent auction and showcasing the talents of DC SCORES youth and area professionals through spoken word performances. More than 200 guests are expected to attend the gala in support of DC SCORES’ unique focus on creative expression and poetry for students across the District. The Inspired Art Gala provides artists with the unique opportunity to support the instruction and cultivation of creative expression through poetry among DC SCORES poet-athletes. The unique silent auction features works of art created by local and national artists inspired by the poetry of DC SCORES poet-athlete. Poetry readings by DC SCORES’ most outstanding students cap off the night. $150. May 17, 6:309:30 p.m. Carnegie Institution of Washington, 1530 P. St. NW. DC SCORES builds teams through afterschool programs for over 800 low-income DC youth at 27 schools by instilling self-expression, physical fitness and a sense of community. For more information, visit DCSCORES.org. l
New School Enrollment
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Founded in the fall of 1999
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Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
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3 year old Pre-K– Grade 5
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Independently run with a strong Board of Trustees
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Recognized by US Department of Education as Outstanding Charter School
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Challenging Curriculum
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Exciting Creative Arts and Technology Program
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Open to all DC Residents
5300 Blaine Street, NE Washington, DC 20019 202-398-6811
Please visit us at www.artstechacademy.org
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KIDS & FAMILY
Introducing Kids To Hands-On Science ReSET Generates Greater Interest In Science and Math Among East of the River Students by Stephen Lilienthal
R
ichard Repplier came to Malcolm X Elementary School on Alabama Ave., SE in Congress Heights on a recent cloudy Wednesday morning. Peering into an open classroom, bedlam was erupting, with kids dashing about and talking loudly. But it’s okay. The students are stretching a cable that, when connected to speakers, will make a telephone. Repplier looks on with pleasure. A 73-year-old electrical engineer, who will drive 70 miles roundtrip for six consecutive weeks from his home in Centreville, VA to Malcolm X, is providing demonstrations of “handson science” to the school’s 5th graders. “It works,” says Repplier, as he watches the children speaking into the homemade phone. “I’ve shown them something they like. There’ll be a lot more.” Minutes later, Repplier shows the students how to make a buzzer. Two students stand out. A boy answers a question confidently. Another, a girl, accurately diagrams the buzzer. Repplier admits past classes he’s taught have been more orderly before adding, “These kids need science the most. I see a whole lot of intelligence and curiosity in them.”
ReSET’s Mission
Repplier is a volunteer with ReSET, a non-profit whose mission is to introduce elementary school children to hands-on science, math and technology. Repplier calls ReSET “a beneficial Trojan Horse. We go into classrooms and under the guise of showing the kids fun games, and release magical elves who turn the kids onto science (we hope)!” Hands-on is the essence of ReSET with good reason. Take Repplier. At age 10, he liked playing with bells, batteries, and lights, seeing how he could make something that rang or lit up. That interest helped to propel him toward a lucrative and interesting career. John Meagher, executive director of ReSET, a retired director of the Wet48 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
lands Division of the Environmental Protection Agency, thinks ReSET is important because many children have never met a scientist or engineer and, unlike in some suburban schools, many DC elementary schools lack labs that encourage hands-on experiments. ReSET’s volunteers believe children at age 10 are more likely to become interested in science and technology by performing experiments and building devices than by listening to classroom lectures or by reading textbooks.
Careers in Science
Policymakers are expressing concern that maintaining America’s edge in the sciences is increasingly difficult. A congressionally-requested report issued by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) in 2005 called “Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Economic Future” cautions, “The domestic and world economies depend more and more on science and engineering. But [United States] primary and secondary schools do not seem able to produce enough students with the interest, motivation, knowledge, and skills they will need to compete and prosper in the emerging world.” Improving science and mathematics education and igniting greater interest among children in math those disciplines were two steps the report advocated.
A followup report by NAS,” Expanding Underrepresented Minority Participation:
America’s Science and Technology Talent at the Crossroads,” emphasizes the importance of greater minority participation in the sciences and engineering, which are expected to be fastgrowing fields for employment opportunities. Nor do all jobs in science and technology require advanced degrees. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook online 2010-2011 edition says a biological science technician averaged nearly | APRIL 2012
$40,000 working for the Federal Government in 2009. Such a position often requires a bachelor’s degree. But to start, kids like those living East of the River will need their interest kindled.
ReSET At Work
ReSET was started by Dr. Harold Sharlin in 1988 when he was seeking ReSET Volunteer Peter Mehravari works with students on a to combine two passions robotics experiment. The students are visiting the U.S. Pat-- improving science edu- ent and Trade Office on a field trip. cation and developing new serving as role models for the stuopportunities for older citizens. Sharlin remains active with dent and the teachers.” ReSET, currently working to expand scientific knowledge among pre-K ReSET Volunteers students. ReSET volunteer Christyann PulDuring the 2010-2011 academic liam, Supervisory Patent Examiner at year, ReSET, bolstered by participa- the United States Patent and Trade tion from 61 current and retired sci- Office, has instructed for ReSET at entific and engineering professionals, the J.G. Whittier Education Campus was able to present programs for 1,676 in northwest DC. “The principal, [Scistudents in 28 schools in the Greater ence, Technology, Engineering, and DC area, including four schools in Mathematics] coordinator, and the southeast DC. This academic year, teachers have been very welcoming and ReSET is staging programs at Mal- supportive. ReSET works a little difcolm X Elementary and Patterson El- ferently at Whittier in that Pulliam is ementary in SW DC. not a solo volunteer instructor but part A typical program conducted by of a team of volunteer instructors, makReSET consists of six classroom ses- ing it easier to provide more personalsions. Students have the opportunity ized guidance to 3rd and 4th grade to try hands-on experiments. Some students attempting to undertake the classes are able to take field trips too. experiments. For instance, Meagher, who also in“It is wonderful to see the kids structs, has taken students for science having fun doing math and science cruises on the Anacostia to test water without realizing that they are actually quality and to identify species of fish. learning,” says Ms. Pulliam, an attorney. Matt Blakely, director of Mo- She credits her father, who works in Intorola Solutions Foundation, com- formation Technology, with arousing pliments ReSET for reaching “un- her interest in computers. derrepresented students” in science Ms. Pulliam had majored in and technology by presenting pro- computer science and political scigrams that will allow “scientists and ence in college and had worked as engineers to share their expertise a software developer. She stresses, directly.” Kelly Balthazor, director “The hands-on nature of the experiof community relations for US Air- ments lets the [students] know they ways, credits ReSET’s volunteers for are capable” of learning more about providing students with “positive, science and mathematics. enjoyable, and interactive experiPamela Wise-Martinez, Chief ences with science and math while Architect at the U.S. Department of
Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration, makes it a point to feature African-Americans and women and their accomplishments in science in presenting ReSET programs to students at Mattaponi Elementary in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Ms. Wise-Martinez’s interest in science and technology harkens back to her childhood when she became “fascinated” by the workings of remote controls for television sets, eventually leading her to earn a master’s degree in Engineering and Technology Management from George Washington University. She holds a patent in Secure Biometric Financial Transactions. Ms. Wise-Martinez recalls the students’ effort to create a battery using copper, vinegar, tin, and a minature lamp. It took two sessions to produce one that worked. When it finally worked, recalls Ms. Wise-Martinez, the students were pleased with their creation. “I love to see their faces when they discover something that relates to everyday living.”
ReSET’s Results
ReSET’s own surveys of students find students who have received instruction by ReSET volunteer instructors exceed the national average in their views of science as measured by the National Center for Education Statistics’ “National Report Card.” Only two-thirds of American students say they like science. But 85% of students who have received ReSET instruction like it. Not only do students learn more about science, they do get invaluable lessons about how professionals prepare for their careers, conduct their work, and the importance of persistence and curiousity. Not every student will become a scientist or engineer but sparking awareness about the larger world is what helps to make ReSET a successful program. For more information on ReSet, or on how you can volunteer, go to www.resetonline.org. Stephen Lilienthal is a freelance writer in Washington, D.C. l
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THE NOSE
T
by Anonymous
he votes have been counted. The primaries are over. Will anyone miss the oceans of yard signs or those tedious debates? The Nose, for one, will not be disappointed to go back to spending evenings reading the ravings of Menken while sipping his favorite poison. Yet, the close voting margins in the At-Large race will drag out the campaign, Al Gore style, for the next several weeks. Poor V.O. Orange worked hard to raise hoards of cash from local business interests. His minions stuffed voters’ mailboxes with multiple flyers purchased with this largesse. The Nose even unplugged his phone to avoid the annoyance of dinnertime robotic endorsements. Yet despite all his efforts and dollars, DC voters did not provide Orange with a crushing margin of victory. Residents of Upper Caucasia, who had latched on to his ethics credentials in the last chase for Chair, deserted him. Lower Caucasia, home of Jack “I Developed DC” Evans gave him fewer votes than it awarded Peter “The Carpetbagger” Shapiro. Outer Caucasia, home of Tommy “Goody Two Shoes” Wells turned up its nose as well. The Hipster Ward, despite the endorsement of their councilmember, Jim “Bowtie” Graham, voted for Sekou “Round Two” Biddle by a two to one margin. Even in Ward 4, home to the famous Gold Coast, voters refused to cede Orange a majority, preferring their favorite son. To make matters worse, Dr. Gail “I Am the Alternative” Holness nipped at his heels in the city’s eastern wards. Orange did not manage to win a majority of the city’s wards. Nor did he win a geographical mandate. Had turnout in Lower Caucasia and the Hipster Ward rivaled that of Ward 7, he would have been toast. Why didn’t voters turn out from these neighborhoods? Neither the wealthy of Ward 2, who have no
54 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
| APRIL 2012
issue with city services or paying for private schooling, nor the cool denizens of Ward 1, glued to their bike saddles and yoga mats, seem to have paid attention to the election. Orange also benefited mightily once again by a split in the Progressive vote engineered by The Carpetbagger, who like a pied piper led the new urbanists away from the Biddle bandwagon. The mantra of “Defeat Orange at All Costs” seems to have been absent in Shapiro’s electoral equations. The tiny 1.02% majority V.O. eked out citywide was largely derived from the city’s three eastern wards. Here, V.O.’s old-style messaging, no doubt, found many willing ears. In fact, these poorer, economically challenged neighborhoods remain quite vote rich. Only an ignorant candidate ignores them. Yet, clearly V.O.’s challengers failed to provide the city’s eastern residents with a compelling reason to vote against him. Perhaps, it is because when confronted with unemployment levels rivaling the Great Depression and failing neighborhood schools, these voters have bigger fish to fry. Future candidates should take due note. Don’t feel rejected V.O. Just keep humming this tune: I wanna be elected by you just you and nobody else but you I wanna be elected by you - alone. Boo boo bee doo I couldn’t aspire to anything higher and to feel the desire to make the council seat my own. Badum badum bee doodily dum ! Boo ! Have a thought for The Nose, email thenose@hillrag.com. l