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...because I get a dental check-up every 6 months. My mom and I keep my teeth healthy by: • Scheduling and going to my appointments

• Using a soft toothbrush

• Asking my dentist questions

• Limiting sugary foods and drinks, especially at bedtime

• Following the dentist’s instructions • Brushing my teeth 2 times every day

• Drinking water after every meal

For more information on dental care, visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com or scan the QR code with your mobile application. To see the I am healthy series and get more tips on ways to stay healthy, visit www.amerihealthcaritasdc.com/iamhealthy. SM

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FALL ARTS & DI NI NG GUIDE 16

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What’s on Washington Glimmers of Star Power in the New Theater Season by Barbara Wells

The Anacostia Gracious Arts Program by Christine Rushton

Jazz Avenues by Steve Monroe

Art All Night: Made in DC photos by Stephanie Vadala

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NEXT ISSUE: nov 5

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Bulletin Board The Numbers by Claire Zippel and Jodi Kwarciany

08 Calendar

48 The Classiﬁed

Whose Congress Heights Dream — Developers or Residents? by Jonetta Rose Barras

50 The Crossword

On tHe cOVer: DC Artist Kenilworth Katrina performing in front of guests at the Shepherd Parkway ‘Art at the Park’ stage. Photo: Stephanie Vadala. See more at pg. 27

Anacostia: The Extreme Makeover Edition by Christine Rushton

Police Go Back to School at Anacostia High’s Public Safety Academy by Christine Rushton

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Changing Hands compiled by Don Denton

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Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 • 202.543.8300 • capitalcommunitynews.com Executive Editor: Melissa Ashabranner • melissaashabranner@hillrag.com Publisher: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2016 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

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cHOcOLAte cOVereD Ants At AnAcOstiA pLAYHOUse Oct. 22 to Nov. 13. Adrienne Taylor is a professor at a fictitious women’s college where she’s researching the plight of the Black woman in America. “Chocolate Covered Ants” chronicles the final leg of her research - an examination of Black men - to determine what eﬀect (if any) they have on the mental, social and physical survival of Black women. Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Pl. SE. restorationstage.com. Photo: Jivon Lee Jackson

HALLOWEEN Soul Strolls at Congressional Cemetery. Oct. 21, 22, 28 and 29, 6 to 9 PM. Hour-long tours depart every 15 minutes. Beer, wine and cider are for sale. Adult tickets, $20; children 12 and under, $10. Attendees can arrive early and have a glass of wine, browse the gift shop and listen to music while waiting for tours to depart. congressionalcemetery.org. National Building Museum Ghost Tours. Oct. 23, 29, 31, 8 PM and 9 PM. Explore the haunted past of the National Building Museum. See a different side of the Museum on this lantern-light tour. Explore the dark side of our historic building. $25. nbm.org. Drag Queen High Heel Race. Oct. 25, 9 PM. Always fun, always outrageous and always held on the Tuesday before Halloween, this event features elaborately costumed drag queens racing down 17th Street NW from R to Church. It attracts large crowds to cheer them on so don’t expect to park in the area. The race begins at 9 PM but come early because the real fun begins before the race. An informal block party follows. Night of the Living Zoo. Oct. 28, 6:30 to 10 PM. Prepare to witness death defying acts and amazing oddities at Friends of the National Zoo’s annual adults-only Halloween party, Night of the Living Zoo. nationalzoo.si.edu.

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Dia de los Muertos. Oct. 29 and 30. The year’s program includes hands-on activities, workshops and demonstrations with traditional artists featuring the symbol of the migrating Monarch butterfly. National Museum of the American Indian, on the National Mall. nmai.si.edu.

White House. This event is free and open to the public. However, a ticket is required for all attendees including small children. The National Park Service will distribute free, timed tickets at the Ellipse Visitor Pavilion located near 15th and E Streets NW on each tour day beginning at 8:30 AM.

All Souls Remembrance at the National Shrine. During the month of November, the National Shrine remembers a beloved deceased in prayer in a particular way. In memory of faithfully departed loved ones, enroll them in their All Souls Remembrance. Those enrolled will be remembered in prayers on the Commemoration of All Souls’ and throughout the entire month. nationalshrine.com.

Fall Festival of South Asian Arts. Oct. 21 to 23. International guest artists Indira Kadambi, Rehan Bashir, Alif Laila and Ashwati Nair will join Dakshina/Daniel Phoenix Singh Dance Company and Lakshmi Babu. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE, 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org.

Find a Nearby Pumpkin Patch. pumpkinpatchesandmore.org

AREA FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS Maryland Renaissance Festival. Weekends through Oct. 23, 10 AM to 7 PM. Adult admission, $19 to $24; Kids, $8 to $10. 1821 Crownsville Rd, Annapolis, MD. rennfest.com. White House Fall Garden Tours. Oct. 8, 10 AM to 4:30 PM and Oct. 9, 10 AM to 2:30 PM. See the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, Rose Garden, the Kitchen Garden and South Lawn of the

Washington International Horse Show. Oct. 25 to 30. This event hosts leading horses and riders from around the nation and the world and is a highlight of the equestrian calendar. Verizon Center. wihs.org.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Hothouse New Play Development Series at Anacostia Playhouse. Each Monday, in October at 8 PM. Oct. 10, John Bavoso’s BLIGHT; Oct. 17, Lindsay Adams’ Her Own Devices; Oct. 24, Annalisa Dias’ To Defend Freedom; Oct. 31, Audrey Cefaly’s Alabaster. Tickets are complimentary. Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shan-

Get Your East of the River Location

Address

River Terrace Rec Center & Elemantary School 420 34th St , NE CVS - East River Park 320 40th St , NE Safeway – NE 322 40th St , NE 6th District Police Dept - Main 100 42nd St , NE Ward Memorial AME 240 42nd St NE Kennilworth Elementary School 1300 44th ST NE Unity East of the River Health Center 123 45th ST NE First Baptist Church of Deanwood 1008 45th St NE Deanwood Public Library 1350 49th ST NE Hughes Memorial United Methodist 25 53rd St NE Capitol Gateway Senior Apts 201 58th St , NE Marvin Gaye Rec Center 6201 Banks Pl NE Watts Branch Recreation Center 6201 Banks St , NE Langston Community Library 2600 Benning Rd , NE Anacostia Neighborhood Library 1800 Good Hope Road SE Benning Branch Library 3935 Benning Rd NE Marshall Heights CDC 3939 Benning Rd , NE Kelly Miller Recreation Center 4900 Brooks St , NE Tabernacle baptist Church 719 Division Ave NE Randall Memorial Baptist Church 4417 Douglas St NE East Capital Church of christ 5026 E Capitol St NE Seat Pleasant CARE Pharmacy 350 Eastern Ave , NE 7-Eleven 950 Eastern AVE NE Riverside Center 5200 Foote St , NE Mayfair Mansions 3744 ½ Hayes St NE Citibank: East River Park 3917 Minnesota Ave , NE Chartered Health Center NE 3924 Minnesota Ave , NE Vending Machines – Deanwood Metro 4720 Minnesota Ave , NE The Minnicks Market 4401 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE Lederer Gardens 4800 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE Suburban Market 4600 Sherriff Rd NE Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church 4601 Sheriff Road NE

Dave Brown Liquors 4721 Sheriff Road Northeast Dave Brown Liquor 4721 Sherriff Rd NE A & S Grocery 4748 Sheriff Rd NE St Rose Pentecostal Church 4816 Sherriff Rd NE Malcolm X Rec Center 3200 13th st SE St More Catholic Church 4275 4th St SE Fort Davis Recreation Center 1400 41st St , SE Ferebee Hope Recreation Center 3999 8th St , SE Emanuel Baptist Church 2409 Ainger Place SE IHOP Restauarant 1523 Alabama Ave, SE Giant Food Store 1535 Alabama Ave , SE SunTrust Bank 1571 Alabama Ave , SE Parklands-Turner Community Library 1547 Alabama Ave , SE Manor Village Apartments Leasing Office 1717 Alabama Ave , SE Garfield Elementary 2435 Alabama Ave 7th District Station 2455 Alabama Ave , SE 6th District Police Dept - Satellite Station 2839 Alabama Ave , SE Service Cleaners 2841 Alabama Ave , SE Safeway – SE 2845 Alabama Ave SE Pizza Hut 2859 Alabama Ave , SE America’s Best Wings 2863 Alabama Ave , SE M&T Bank 2865 Alabama Ave , SE Washington Senior Wellness Center 3001 Alabama Ave , SE St Timothys Episcopal Church 3601 Alabama Ave SE Francis A Gregory Neighborhood Library 3660 Alabama Ave , SE National Capital Parks--EAST 1900 Anacostia Dr , SE Kid smiles 4837 Benning Road SE Pimento Grill 4405 Bowen Rd SE East Washington Heights Baptist Church 2220 Branch Ave ,SE St Johns Baptist Church 5228 Call Place SE Capitol View Branch Library 5001 Central Ave , SE Marie Winston Elementary School 3100 Denver St , SE Subway 4525 East Capitol St

Our Lady Queen of Peace Church 3800 Ely Pl , SE Anacostia Museum for African Amer History 1901 Fort Pl SE - Back Door Smithsonian Anacostia Marcia Burris 1901 Fort Place SE - Back Door DC Center for Therapeutic Recreation 3030 G ST SE ARCH 1227 Good Hope Rd , SE Anacostia Pizzeria 1243 Good Hope Rd , SE SunTrust Bank 1340 Good Hope Rd , SE Unity Health Care Inc 1638 Good Hope Rd , SE Bread for the City 1640 Good Hope Rd , SE Marbury Plaza Tenants Assoc 2300 Good Hope Rd , SE Dollar Plus Supermarket 1453 Howard Rd , SE Ascensions Psychological and Community Services 1526 Howard Rd SE Dupont Park SDA Church 3985 Massachusettes Ave SE Orr Elementary School 2200 Minnesota Ave SE Hart Recreation Center 601 Mississippi Ave , SE Southeast Tennis and Learning Center 701 Mississippi Ave , SE The ARC 1901 Mississippi Ave , SE Neighborhood Pharmacy 1932 Martin Luther King Jr , SE PNC Bank 2000 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Bank of America 2100 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE C Aidan Salon 2100 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Big Chair Coffee 2122 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE Animal Clinic of Anacostia 2210 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Max Robinson Center of Whitman-Walker Clinic 2301 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE The United Black Fund 2500 Martin Luther King Ave SE The Pizza Place 2910 Martin Luther King Ave SE Metropol Educational Services, 3rd Floor 3029 Marin Luther King Jr Ave , SE National Children’s Center Southeast Campus 3400 Martin Luther King Jr , SE Assumption Catholic Church 3401 Martin Luther King Ave SE Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center 3500 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Congress Heights Health Center 3720 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE

CVS - Skyland Harris Teeter Thai Orchid Kitchen St Francis Xavier Church Pennsylvania Ave Baptist Church CVS – Penn Branch Congress Heights Recreation Center Johnson Memorial Baptist Church Ridge Recreation Center Savoy Recreation Center PNC Bank Rite Aid United Medical Center Benning Park Community Center Benning Stoddert Recreation Center Union Temple Baptist Church Senior Living at Wayne Place William O Lockridge/Bellevue Bald Eagle At Fort Greble Covenant Baptist Church Faith Presbyterian Church Henson Ridge Town Homes Office The Wilson Building CCN office Eastern Market YMCA Capitol View CW Harris Elementary School DC Child & Family Services Agency

2646 Naylor Rd , SE 1350 Pennsylvania Ave SE 2314 Pennsylvania Ave SE 2800 Pennsylvania Ave SE 3000 Pennsylvania Ave SE 3240 Pennsylvania Ave , SE 100 Randle Pl , SE 800 Ridge Rd SE 800 Ridge Rd , SE 2440 Shannon Pl SE 4100 South Capitol St , SE 4635 South Capitol St , SE 1310 Southern Ave , SE 5100 Southern Ave SE 100 Stoddert Pl , SE 1225 W ST SE 114 Wayne Place SE 115 Atlantic St , SW 100 Joliet St SW 3845 South Capitol St 4161 South Capitol St SW 1804 Stanton Terrace, SE 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW 224 7th ST SE 225 7th St SE 2118 Ridgecrest Court SE 301 53rd Street, SE 200 I Street SE

For more distribution locations, contact 202.543.8300 x.19 E ast

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non Pl. SE. theateralliance.com. IMMERSION: GHOST TECH by Phillip McGaughy at Honfleur Gallery. Through Nov. 16. Reception, Oct. 18, 6 to 9 PM. IMMERSION is an interactive, multimedia installation series held in 3 locations around Historic Anacostia neighborhood. It offers visitors the chance to touch, create, contribute and share. The selected artists-in-residence present projects that will change and grow over time offering visitors memorable, hands-on experiences. Wood, plaster and foam sculptures that will act as 3D screens on which video and images of the Anacostia River will be projected. The gallery will be filled with these “performative sculptures.” Visitors can wind their way through the installations while listening to river sounds, Go-Go music and conversations with people who live along this waterway. Honfleur Gallery, 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE. honfleurgallery.com. Twelve Years that Shook and Shaped Washington: 1963-1975. Closes this month on Oct. 23. Change was in the air, some of it unsettling and threatening. Against a national background of Lyndon Johnson’s “great society,” anti-war protests, black power and feminism, this exhibition focuses on events, people and challenges that transformed the city between 1963 and 1975. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202633-4820. anacostia.si.edu. Daily Ranger Tours at Kenilworth Park. 10 AM, weekdays; 10 AM and 2 PM, weekends. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1900 Anacostia Ave. SE. 202-692-6080. nps.gov/keaq. Kenya Up Close: Acoustic Soul & Jazz Concert feat. Guitarist Matvei Sigalov. Oct. 9, 7:30 to 8:30 PM. Join Chicago-based international recording artist Kenya for a special intimate evening of live acoustic soul and jazz music. $20 to $25. Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE. anacostiaartscenter.com. BLACKtoberfest at THEARC. Oct. 15, 5 to 10 PM. Bring a dish or drinks. Enjoy an evening of good music, good conversation and good vibrations. All are welcome. $10. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-8895901. thearcdc.org. “Sankofa” Album Release by Sydni Marie. Oct. 16, 6 to 8 PM. Live music event celebrating the release of Sydni Marie’s debut CD Sankofa. $20. Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE. anacostiaartscenter.com. Artist Talk with David C. Driskell at the ACM. Oct. 22, 2 to 4 PM. Artist and noted art historian, curator and philanthropist Dr. David Driskell talks about the Washington Color School with a focus on Sam Gilliam, Alma

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Thomas and other local proponents of the movement. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu. The Queen’s Chains at the Anacostia Arts Center. Oct. 29, 6 to 8 PM. A one-woman show that chronicles a journey to find acceptance, peace and unconditional love. $15. Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE. anacostiaartscenter.com. TWB presents: The Studio Company NEW WORKS. Oct. 29 and 30, 2 PM and 7 PM. TWB Company dancers will choreograph new works for their Studio Company in TWB’s ongoing commitment to nurturing and presenting new choreography. $20. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-8895901. thearcdc.org. The Suicide Journals at the Anacostia Arts Center. Oct. 30, 4 to 10 p.m. The Suicide Journals explores the grim reality of teenage and young adult suicide by addressing issues of identity, peer pressure, abuse, love, neglect and acceptance. $10 to $15. Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE. anacostiaartscenter.com. Black Nativity by Langston Hughes at Anacostia Playhouse (save the date). Nov. 23 to Dec. 31. Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Pl. SE. theateralliance.com.

MUSIC AROUND TOWN Music at 9:30 Club. Oct. 8, The Faint; Oct. 9, Majid Jordan; Oct. 10, What So Not; Oct. 11, Squeeze; Oct. 12, Flight Facilities; Oct. 13, DJ Shadow; Oct. 14, Teenage Fanclub; Oct. 15, Yonder Mountain String Band; Oct. 16 and 17, Local Natives; Oct. 18, Jack Garratt; Oct. 19, Foy Vance; Oct. 20, Saint Motel; Oct. 21, Shovels & Rope; Oct. 22, Catfish and The Bottlemen; Oct. 24, Lany; Oct. 25 and 26, Phantogram; Oct. 27 and 28, St. Lucia; Oct. 29, Hinds and Papadosio; Oct. 30, GWAR; Oct. 31, Aurora; Nov. 1, Capital Cities; Nov. 2, Eric Hutchinson and Fred Armisen; Nov. 3, RÜFÜS DU SOL; Nov. 4, Låpsley and Snakehips; Oct. 5, Marillion; Nov. 6 and 7, Tegan and Sara. 815 V St. NW. 877435-9849. 930.com. Music at Sixth and I. Oct. 8, Brooklyn Rider & Anne Sofie von Otter; Oct. 15, An Intimate Night with Allen Stone; Oct. 20, Zakir Hussain with Niladri Kumar; Oct. 22, Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn; Oct. 30, Kennedy Center Chamber Players; Nov. 5, Chucho Valdés Joe Lovano Quintet. Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 202-408-3100. sixthandi.org.

Music at the Atlas. Oct. 9, Akua Allrich’s 8th Annual Nina Simone, Miriam Makeba Tribute; Oct. 13 and 14, Heidi Martin: ABBEY! (2016); Oct. 14, Ethiopian Music Legend Girma Beyene and Feedel Band; Oct. 15, Oran Etkin: What’s New? Reimagining Benny Goodman; Oct. 15, 16, 21 and 22, UrbanArias: The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat; Oct. 15, Great Noise Ensemble. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE, 202399-7993. atlasarts.org. Blues Night in Southwest. Every Monday, 6 to 9 PM. Oct. 10, Full Power Blues; Oct. 17, Sol Roots Band; Oct. 24, Shirleta’s Birthday Bash; Oct. 31, Swampdog Blues!; Nov. 7, Fast Eddie & the Slow Pokes; Nov. 14, Memphis Gold Blues; Nov. 21, Queen Aisha Blues; Nov. 28, Danny Blew & the Blues Crew; Dec. 5, David Cole & Main Street Blues; Dec. 12, Robert Penn Blues Band; Dec. 19, Ursula Ricks Project; Dec. 26, The Nighthawks. $5 cover. Children are free under 16 years old. Reasonably priced meals offered.-484-7700. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW. westminsterdc.org. Music at Black Cat. Oct. 13, The Seshen; Oct. 14, Crywolf and Church Night; Oct. 15, Punk Rock Karaoke; Oct. 16, Dagger Moon (record release); Oct. 17, Governess (record release); Oct. 18, Hallow-Zine; Oct. 19, Shelter for the Bloodstained Soul; Oct. 20, Sun Club and the Kids Palm; Oct. 21, Major & the Monbacks; Oct. 22, 10th Annual DC “Halloween” Cover Benefit Show and Fresh to Death; Oct. 23, Ricky Eat Acid; Oct. 24, Trails and Ways; Oct. 25, Har Mar Superstar; Oct. 26, Shellac; Oct. 27, Highly Suspect; Oct. 28, Halloween Circus; Oct. 29, Eighties Mayhem; Oct. 30, Garrett Klahn; Nov. 3, El Ten Eleven; Nov. 4, Dance Yourself Clean; Nov. 5, The White Buffalo; Nov. 6, the Interrupters. Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW. blackcatdc.com. Music at The Howard. Oct. 11, Buika; Oct. 13, Blonde Redhead featuring American Contemporary Music Ensemble; Oct. 14, Kindred The Family Soul; Oct. 15, Steve Byrne and Bomba Party; Oct. 16, Go-Go Brunch feat. The Chuck Brown Band; Oct. 17, The Moth storySLAM; Oct. 18, Big Freedia; Oct. 19, Lupe Fiasco; Oct. 20, Aaron Carter; Oct. 21, HennyPalooza, The CrossRhodes - Raheem DeVaughn + Wes Felton and Reggae Fest vs Soca Howard Homecoming w/ Movado; Oct. 23, Harlem Gospel Choir and Martin Barre; Oct. 27, The Quentin Tarantino Songbook; Oct. 28 and 29, Jeffrey Osborne; Oct. 30, Sir Joe Quarterman & Free Soul; Oct. 31, MIXTAPE Halloween Party; Nov. 1, Eric Gales; Nov. 2, Eva Ayllon; Nov. 3, Samuel Prather & Groove Orchestra; Nov. 4, Madeleine Peyroux; Nov. 6, Go-Go Brunch feat. Sugar Bear & EU and NeNe Leaks. Howard

Theatre, 620 T St. NW. 202-803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com. Church of the Epiphany Weekly Concerts. Every Tuesday, 12:10 PM. Oct. 11, Nakia Vener, soprano; Oct. 18, The Furuya Sisters; Oct. 25, The Thirteen Chamber Choir; Nov. 1, Washington Bach Consort. 1317 G St. NW. 202-3472635. epiphanydc.org. Jazz Night in Southwest. Every Friday, 6 to 9 PM. Oct. 14, Collector’s Edition; Oct. 21, Homecoming for Larry Brown; Oct. 28, Tribute to Horace Silver. $5 cover. Children are free under 16 years old. Reasonably priced meals offered. 202-484-7700. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW. westminsterdc.org. Notes from the Crypt. Oct. 16, 4 to 5 PM. Free. Historic Congressional Cemetery Chapel, 1801 E St. SE. congressionalcemetery.org. Outdoor Concert at the Botanic Garden. Oct. 20; 5 to 7 PM. Free. US Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. USBG.gov. Art Songs at Source Theater. Oct. 23 and 29, 2:30 PM. Schumann and Heine’s iconic Dichterliebe and other art songs in a salonstyle concert with visual images and dialogue exploring Romanticism. Byron Jones, tenor & Elizabeth Mondragon, mezzo soprano. Pianist Carla Hübner. Source Theater, 1835 14th St. NW. 202-204-7763. inseries.org.

SPORTS AND FITNESS Fort Dupont Ice Arena Public Skating. Public ice skating is on Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29, 1 to 3 PM; Oct. 9, 16, 23 and 30, 2:30 to 4:30 PM; Oct. 14 and 21, noon to 2 PM. $5 for adults; $4 for 12 and under and seniors 60 and over; $3 for skate rental. Fort Dupont Ice Arena is at 3779 Ely Pl. SE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org. East Potomac Outdoor Pool. Open through Oct. 16. 972 Ohio Dr. SW. Free for DC residents. Have ID. dpr.dc.gov. Practice with Love Yoga Gathering at the Botanic Garden. Saturdays, Oct. 8, 15, 22 and 29; 10:30 to 11:30 AM. Free. Bring your own mat. usbg.gov. Washington Capitals Ice Hockey. Preseason, Oct. 9; regular season Oct. 15, 18 and 22; Nov. 3, 5 and 8. Verizon Center. capitals.nhl.com. Washington Wizards Basketball. Preseason, Oct. 13, 21; regular season, Nov. 2, 4 and 7. Verizon Center. nba.com/wizards. DC United at RFK. Oct. 16, 5 PM vs. New York City FC. dcunited.com.

Barry Farm (indoor) pool. Open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 6:30 AM to 8 PM; and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 AM to 5PM. Free for DC residents. 1230 Sumner Rd. SE. 202-730-0572. dpr.dc.gov. Deanwood (indoor) Pool. Monday to Friday, 6:30 AM to 8 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Free for DC residents. 1350 49th St. NE. 202-671-3078. dpr.dc.gov. Ferebee Hope (indoor) Pool. Open weekdays, 10 AM to 6 PM. Closed weekends. Free for DC residents. 3999 Eighth St. SE. 202-6453916. dpr.dc.gov. Yoga Mortis at Congressional Cemetery. Mondays through October, 6:30 PM. Historic Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE. 202543-0539. congressionalcemetery.org. Barre at THEARC. Wednesdays, noon to 1 PM. $6 for 20020 or 20032 residents. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. Adult Pilates at THEARC. Wednesdays, 7:15 to 8:15 PM. This class will focus on stretching and strengthening the entire body from the inside out. $6 for 20020 or 20032 residents. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-8895901. thearcdc.org. Adult Zumba at THEARC. Saturdays, 8:30 to 9:30 AM. Ditch the workout, join the party! Latin Dance-Fitness fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves. $6 for 20020 or 20032 residents. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org. Free Weekly Jazzercise Class. Wednesdays, 6:30 to 7:30 PM. Jazzercise is a 60-minute workout that incorporates cardio, stretch and strength-training exercises. Bring weights and a mat. 4800 Nannie Helen Burroughs (ground floor Community Room). Yoga @ the Library. Saturdays, 10 to 11 AM. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat, but if you donâ€™t have one, yoga mats are available. Classes are taught by a Yoga Activist and are held on the lower level of the library in the Larger Meeting Room. Free. Dorothy I. Height Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. 202-281-2583. dclibrary.org/benning. .

MARKETS AND SALES Ward 8 Farmerâ€™s Market. Saturdays, 10 AM to 3 PM, through Nov. 19. Market is in the parking lot behind Martin Luther King Elementary School, 3200 Sixth St. SE. ward8farmersmarket.com. Sugarloaf Crafts Festival. Oct. 14 to 15 (rain or shine), 10 AM to 6 PM. Montgomery Coun-

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Objects of Hope:

The America Project at Anacostia Arts Center

Oct. 8, 13, 14 and 15, 7:30 PM. Contradiction Dance revisits an interactive performance piece that asks us all to consider how the “other” should be treated. It is a remount of the 2008 original piece addresses homelessness, immigration and gun violence. Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE. objectsofhope.brownpapertickets.com.

Contradiction Dance at Anacostia Arts Center, here they launch their 10th season through Oct. 15. Photo: Michael J. Avilez

ty Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut St,, Gaithersburg, MD. sugarloafcrafts.com.

featuring over 40 local vendors. 1309 Fifth St. NE. 301-652-7400. unionmarketdc.com.

For further details, contact Charles Wilson, 202-834-0600.

ANC 7D. Second Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Dorothy I. Height Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. 202-398-5258. 7D06@anc.dc.gov.

American Fine Craft Show Washington. Oct. 21 to 23. 125 craft artisans will be joined by American furniture crafts persons from throughout the country. DC Armory, 2001 East Capital St. SE. AmericanFineCraftShowWashington.com.

CIVIC LIFE

Anacostia High School Improvement Team Meeting. Fourth Tuesday, 6 PM. Anacostia High School, 16th and R Streets SE.

Congresswoman Norton’s SE District Office. Open weekdays, 9 AM to 6 PM. 2041 MLK Ave. SE, #238. 202-678-8900. norton.house.gov.

Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE.

Pottery on the Hill Show and Sale. Oct. 29, 10 AM to 5 PM; and Oct. 30, 11 AM to 4 PM. There is a ticketed preview reception on Oct. 30, 6:30 PM. Free admission to the sale. potteryonthehilldc.com.

Eastland Gardens Civic Association Meeting. Third Tuesday, 6:30 to 8 PM. Kenilworth Elementary School Auditorium, 1300 44th St. NE. Contact Javier Barker, j58barker@yahoo. com or 202-450-3155.

Ward 7 Education Council Meeting. Fourth Thursday, 6:30 PM. Capitol View Library, 5001 East Capitol St. SE.

Branch Avenue Pawn Parking Lot Flea Market. Saturdays, year-round (weather permitting). Set up after 10 AM. 3128 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD.

Anacostia Coordinating Council Meeting. Last Tuesday, noon to 2 PM. Anacostia Museum, 1901 Fort St. SE. For further details, contact Philip Pannell, 202-8894900.

ANC MONTHLY MEETINGS

ANC 8B. Third Tuesday, 7 PM. Seventh District Police Station Community Center, Alabama and McGee Streets SE. 202-610-1818. anc8b.org.

Fresh Tuesdays at Eastern Market. Tuesdays, 3 to 7 PM. Farmers’ line of fresh produce. Eastern Market, 200 block of Seventh St. SE. 202698-5253. easternmarketdc.com.

Capitol View Civic Association Meeting. Third Monday, 6:30 PM. Hughes Memorial United Methodist, 25 53rd St. NE. capitolviewcivicassoc.org.

ANC 7B. Third Thursday, 7 PM. Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church, 3200 S St. SE (Branch Ave and S St. SE). 202-584-3400. anc7b@pressroom.com. anc7b@earthlink.net.

ANC 8C. First Wednesday, 7 PM. 2907 MLK Jr Ave. SE. 202-388-2244.

Union Market. Tuesday-Friday, 11 AM to 8 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM. Union Market is an artisanal, curated, year round food market

Historical Anacostia Block Association. Second Thursday, 7 to 9 PM. UPO Anacostia Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE.

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ANC 7C. Second Thursday, 7 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202-398-5100. anc7c@ verizon.net.

ANC 7E. Second Tuesday, 7 PM. Jones Memorial Church, 4625 G St. SE. 202-582-6360. 7E@anc.dc.gov. ANC 7F. Third Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Washington Tennis and Education Foundation, 200 Stoddert Place, SE. ANC 8A. First Tuesday, 7 PM. Anacostia UPO Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202889-6600. anc8adc.org.

ANC 8D. Fourth Thursday, 7 PM. Specialty Hospital of Washington, 4601 MLK Jr. Ave. SW. 202-561-0774.

Have an item for the Calendar? Email it to calendar@hillrag.com. u

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What’s on Washington Dance at the Kennedy Center

Dance this fall at the Kennedy Center ranges from tap to modern to dance theater to ballet to The Nutcracker at Christmas. Here’s the lineup: • Dorrance Dance with Toshi Reagon and BIGLovely in The Blue’s Project, Oct. 5 and 6 • DEMO by Damian Woetzel-Heroes, Oct. 10 • Danish Dance Theatre-Black Diamond, Oct. 18 and 19 • The Suzanne Farrell Ballet-All-Balanchine Program, Oct. 21 to 23 • San Francisco Ballet- Christopher Wheeldon’s Cinderella, Oct. 26 to 30 • STREB Extreme Action: SEA, Nov. 4 and 5 • Cincinnati Ballet-The Nutcracker, Nov. 23 to 27 While prices can be hefty, half-price tickets are often available for students, people 65 and over, enlisted military and people with permanent disabilities. Visit kennedy-center.org for details. The Suzanne Farrell Ballet dancers Elisabeth Holowchuk and Kirk Henning in Danses Concertantes Photo: Rosalie O’Connor

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Hilloween Interior of the reconstructed greenhouse slave quarter at Mount Vernon. Photo: Russ Flint

Hilloween this year is on Friday, Oct. 28, 5:30 to 7: 0 p.m. It’s simply the place to be for horse-drawn hayrides (two wagons this year), a moon bounce, face painting, photo booth, candy treats, games, contests and a talented prognosticator and fortune teller near the hayride queue. All the activity will be centered at Eastern Market, Seventh St. SE between Pennsylvania and North Carolina Avenues SE. Also, on Halloween night, don’t miss the action on East Capitol Street between Third and 11th Streets. Walter Street, SE, between 12th and 13th Streets (south of Lincoln Park), is a one-block street that closes off the traffic and hosts hundreds of kids every year.

The Art of the Qur’an: Treasures from the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts” at the Sackler Lives Bound Together: Slavery at George Washington’s Mount Vernon Opens

George Washington’s Mount Vernon is mounting a ground-breaking new exhibition on the lives of the enslaved people who lived and worked at the estate during Washington’s time. Opening Oct. 1, “Lives Bound Together: Slavery at George Washington’s Mount Vernon” explores the personal stories of these men and women and provides insight into George Washington’s evolving opposition to slavery. Through household furnishings, art works, archaeological discoveries, documents, and interactive displays, the exhibition demonstrates how closely intertwined the lives of the Washingtons were with those they enslaved. mountvernon.org.

In recognition of one of the world’s extraordinary collections of Qur’ans, the Freer/Sackler is hosting a landmark exhibition, the first of its kind in the United States. Over fifty of the most sumptuous manuscripts from Herat to Istanbul will be featured in The Art of the Qur’an: Treasures from the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. Celebrated for their superb calligraphy and lavish illumination, these manuscripts — which range in date from the early eighth to the seventeenth century — are critical to the history of the arts of the book. They were once the prized possessions of Ottoman sultans and the ruling elite, who donated their Qur’ans to various institutions to express their personal piety and secure political power. Each manuscript tells a unique story that will be explored in this once-in-a-lifetime exhibition. They are on exhibition at the Sackler Oct. 22 to Feb. 20, 2017. asia.si.edu Calligrapher: Ali b. Mahmud al-Havavi, Iran, Tabriz, Safavid period, January 15, 1516, Ink, color, and gold on paper, Each page 41 × 29 cm, Istanbul, Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, TIEM 232

First Folio! at Gallaudet Noted deaf poet and actor Patrick Graybill will perform in the National Theater of the Deaf’s The King during the First Folio month at Gallaudet University. Photo: Courtesy of Gallaudet Theatre and Dance Program

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In October 2016, Gallaudet University hosts a month-long program for the traveling exhibit, “First Folio! The Book that Gave Us Shakespeare.” A copy of the First Folio will be provided by the Folger Shakespeare Library. It will be on display in the Washburn Arts Building. Programming throughout the month will offer the public a variety of ways to engage with Shakespeare in visually oriented ways. Six panels provided by the Folger Shakespeare Library will cover the history of Shakespeare and the First Folio. Another four companion panels developed by Gallaudet University will focus on the history of Shakespeare in the Deaf community and translations of his works in American Sign Language. Registration for family day workshops is open at gallaudet.edu/firstfolio.html. (See Kids and Family Notebook in the back of this paper for details.)

Food & Friends Pie Day and Thanksgiving Pie Sale

On Thursday, Nov. 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Farragut Square, Food & Friends will be hosting a community Pie Day in support of its annual Slice of Life Pie Selling Campaign that funds nutritious, home-delivered meals and groceries to the critically ill. During Pie Day, Food & Friends will be distributing information about Slice of Life and giving away free samples of their delicious pies. Pie Day calls attention to the annual Slice of Life Thanksgiving pie sale. This is a simple and delicious way for members of the public to support Food & Friends’ large-scale effort to deliver one million healthy meals this year to those living with life-challenging illnesses. The goal this year is to sell 9,000 pies. Each pie purchased will provide one full day of meals for a Food & Friends client. Online pie sales run throughout October into November, closing on Nov. 17. Order at foodandfriends.org/pie. Pie Day in Farragut Square features samples of pumpkin and apple pie in support of Food & Friends’ annual pie sale fundraiser, Slice of Life. Photo: Courtesy of Food & Friends

Newseum Reopens the Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery

When unearthed in the late 19th century, archaeologists believed this to be the death mask of Agamemnon, the mythical king of Mycenae. National Archaeological Museum, Athens

THE GREEKS: Agamemnon to Alexander the Great at National Geographic

There are still a few days left to see “The Greeks: Agamemnon to Alexander the Great.” It is a once-ina-lifetime exhibition featuring more than 500 priceless treasures — many of which have never been displayed outside of Greece — from 21 Greek museums. Discover how the ancient Greeks saw themselves, their society and their gods. Explore pivotal moments that led to the birth of Western democracy, philosophy and theater. Learn how Greek culture continues to shape the modern arts, science, medicine and sports. THE GREEKS is on exhibition at National Geographic, 1145 17th St. NW, through Oct. 10. Adult admission is $15. nationalgeographic.com.

Newseum has reopened its Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery, the most comprehensive collection of Pulitzer Prize winning photographs ever assembled, after a month-long refresh. The gallery reopens to mark the 100th anniversary of the Pulitzer Prizes with new photographs and ways to experience the stories behind the images. The renovated gallery features every Pulitzer Prize winning entry since 1942, when the award for photography was first presented along with an updated display of 40 large-scale photographs tracing the history of the award, plus a 3D touchable image. The images added to the gallery document some of the most gripping stories of our time. Newseum is at 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. newseum.org.

THEATRICAL SELECTIONS: A free politicallycharged play reading series

In the weeks leading up to the nation’s presidential election, for the first time, five leading area theatres are collaborating to bring politics and drama to the stage. Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater, The John F. Kennedy for the Performing Arts, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Signature Theatre and Studio Theatre present “THEatrical SELECTIONS: A free, politically-charged play reading series.” Each theatre will host a reading of a play they feel reflects the country’s current political and social environment. They consider political moments from burgeoning fascism in the 1930s to partisan horse-trading in modern America. On Oct. 3: Arena Stage presents “Watch on the Rhine,” by Lillian Hellman; Oct. 17, Shakespeare Theatre Company, “The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui,” by Bertolt Brecht; Oct. 24, Signature Theatre, “A Face in the Crowd,” by Budd Schulberg; Oct. 31, Kennedy Center, “Warrior Class,” by Kenneth Lin; and Nov. 7, Studio Theatre, “Ivanka: A Medea for Right Now,” by Joshua Harmon. Go to each theater’s website for tickets.

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Marg Helgenberger as Regina Giddens in “The Little Foxes” at Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater, Sept. 23Oct. 30. Photo: Tony Powell

Glimmers of Star Power i n the New Theater Season

by Barbara Wells

n the final weeks of a steamy summer, one theater season breathed its last as another shows the first signs of life. Although the 2016-17 season and its creative teams and casts are still taking shape, initial season announcements provide a peek at a host of outstanding actors – famous and little-known – in intriguing roles. That’s the joy of DC theater: watching some of our country’s greatest stage actors inhabit new characters. More casting of familiar actors will be announced in the months to come, but on my first take here are a few that caught my eye. Arena Stage leads the pack in attracting performers of national renown. Lillian Hellman’s classic “The Little Foxes,” opening this September, stars Emmy Award winner Marg Helgenberger of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and “China Beach” fame. Next up in October, Kathleen Turner follows her Arena star turns in “Mother Courage and Her Children” and “Red Hot Patriot: The Kick-Ass Wit of Molly Ivins” with “The Year of Magical Thinking,” a one-woman show based on Joan Didion’s acclaimed memoir. In February, Broadway veteran, four-time Academy Award nominee, and Golden Globe winner Marsha Mason will lead Arena’s ensemble cast in Hellman’s “Watch on the Rhine.”

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OCTOBER AT THE ATLAS!

But the season so far has no shortage of local luminaries either. Arena’s production of “The Little Foxes” includes some of our best: my personal favorite, Ed Gero, following his astonishing portrayal of Antonin Scalia in “The Originalist”; Megan Graves, who gave a standout performance as an adorable muted Snug in the Folger Theatre’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”; and David Emerson Toney and Jack Willis, always welcome additions to ensemble casts, who recently appeared in “All the Way” as Roy Wilkins and Lyndon Johnson. Arena also will reunite Nicholas Rodriguez and E. Faye Butler in “Carousel” – for the first time since they lit up the stage to rave reviews in “Oklahoma!” as Curly and Aunt Eller. They’re joined by Rayanne Gonzalez, who has contributed scrappy characters and gorgeous vocals to Arena’s productions of “Oliver!,” “Destiny of Desire,” “Mother Courage and Her Children,” and “My Fair Lady” as well as Shakespeare Theatre Company’s “Man of LaMancha.” The Folger opened the season in September with “Sense and Sensibility,” starring four-time Helen Hayes Award-winning actress Erin Weaver, who last enthralled Folger’s audiences with her Puck in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” as well as leading roles in “Romeo and Juliet” and “Arcadia.” The production also brings back Michael Glenn, who appeared with Weaver in “Arcadia” and has been a cornerstone of countless ensemble casts. In January, Glenn will take on the role of Oliver, a somewhat evil elder brother destined for transformation, in Folger’s “As You Like It,” a production that includes the sharp-witted Tom Story as melancholy Jacques. Look for-

Captivating Movement! | Furia Flamenca 10/1-2

Ethio-Jazz Centerstage | Girma Beyene 10/14

“Swinging” Good Music! | Oran Etkin 10/15

For tickets, and special offers for Atlas performances, visit atlasarts.org.

Boundary-pushing New Music! | EcoSono 10/16

Atlas Performing Arts Center 1333 H Street NE Washington, DC 20002

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Holly Twyford, Maggie Wilder, Danny Gavigan, and Gregory Linington in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” Photo: Christopher Mueller

ward to Story’s delivery of one of the most famous speeches of all time: All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. Ian Merrill Peakes, a wonderful actor who gave riveting performances in the Folger’s “Othello,” “Macbeth,” and “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead,” returns in May to play the lead in “Timon of Athens.” The cast includes the always mesmerizing Louis Boutelli, a pillar of Folger’s productions, as well as Eric Hissom, who earned a Helen Hayes Award for his performance in Folger’s “Arcadia.” At the Shakespeare Theatre Company it’s like old home week with the season’s opening production of “Romeo and Juliet.” Jeffrey Carlson, a memorable Hamlet and Lorenzaccio 10 years ago, returns to the company in the role of Mercutio; Keith Hamilton Cobb, who once played a fiery Tybalt, is now Capulet; and outstanding company veteran Gregory Wooddell is Paris. Andrew Veenstra, a more recent company favorite who has charmed audiences in “As You Like It,” “The Two Gentlemen of Verona,” and “The Heir Apparent,” returns as Romeo. Ford’s Theatre presents “Whose Afraid of Virginia Wolf ” this January, starring Holly Twyford as Martha.

EastofthERivERDCNEws.Com

After earning a trove of Helen Hayes nominations and awards for acting over the past 20 years, Twyford has turned her attention to directing, so it’s unlikely she’d take on this classic role unless she had something specific to say. She’s sure to have an incisive take on this searing depiction of a marital meltdown. In March, Ford’s presents “Ragtime,” a reunion of Tracy Lynn Olivera and Kevin McAllister following their pairing in last year’s “110 in the Shade.” Both were terrific in that show, despite a dated storyline and forgettable songs, so they should shine in this Tony Award-winning musical. “Ragtime” also features the fabulous singing of Nova Y. Payton, who gave show-stopping performances in Signature Theatre’s “Dreamgirls” and “Hairspray.” Payton also appears in “Silver Belles,” Signature’s holiday fare that assembles several esteemed actresses as local women banding together to keep their town’s Christmas pageant alive. The quartet includes Washington favorite Naomi Jacobson, who recently delighted audiences as Mrs. Dangle/Drudge in the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s “The Critic/ The Real Inspector Hound” and as Fraulein Schneider in Signature’s “Cabaret.”

Signature opens its season with “The Gulf,” a world premiere comedy about two women stranded on a fishing trip in Alabama. I’m not familiar with Rachel Zampelli, but Maria Rizzo was outstanding in Signature’s “Cabaret” as the German prostitute Fraulein Kost, bringing depth to a character that could be two-dimensional. The performance was even more impressive on the heels of Rizzo’s portrayal of Chava in Arena’s “Fiddler on the Roof ” – achieving a complete transformation from a feisty, principled, and loving daughter into a mean-spirited, self-serving opportunist. A piece de resistance for fans of DC’s great actors may be “Angels in America,” parts one and two, co-produced by Round House Theatre and Olney Theatre Center. This revival of Tony Kushner’s Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning epic opened in September, showcasing Sarah Marshall, a Washington legend who recently portrayed matriarchs in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof ” at Round House and “The Apple Family Plays” at Studio Theatre, along with area theater veterans including Kimberly Gilbert, Mitchell Hebert, Tom Story, and Dawn Ursula. Marshall also appears at Woolly Mammoth this Jan-

Sisterly talk between Marianne (Erin Weaver, left) and Elinor (Maggie McDowell) in Folger Theatre’s “Sense & Sensibility.” On stage Sept. 13-Oct. 30. Photo: Teresa Wood

uary in “Baby Screams Miracle,” a new production by Obie Award-winning playwright Clare Barron that co-stars the brilliant Kate Eastwood Norris. In countless performances Norris has shown enormous range, from her hilarious Kate in “The Taming of the Shrew” to her bone-chilling Lady Macbeth. While many springtime shows have yet to finish casting, one notable hire is locked in: Rick Foucheux in the title role of Avant Bard’s “King Lear” next May. Foucheux planned to retire after appearing in “Another Way Home” at Theatre J last summer, but he couldn’t resist the chance to expand his vast repertoire of classic characters with this iconic role ... and I can hardly wait to see him. Barbara Wells is a writer and editor for Reingold, a social marketing communications firm. She and her husband live on Capitol Hill.

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The Anacostia Grac ious Arts Program

Enriching Youth through the Arts

by Christine Rushton

wice a week for an hour a small group of students from Wards 7 and 8 get a chance to explore the arts – performance, music, visual, and more. Deonte Smith is one of them, a veteran of the Anacostia Gracious Arts Program (AGAP). Growing up in a part of DC that people often write off as dangerous, he has thrived in the program to develop his skills as a danc-

TOP: AGAP students celebrate their project in DC’s 48 Hour Film Festival last spring. Deonte Smith is second from the left. Photo: AGAP RIGHT: AGAP student Rhema Jones sings at the AGAP fundraiser on May 28. Photo: RichFox Photography

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er and vocalist. “AGAP helped me a lot with my character,” he said. “As I got older, I was able to teach younger students.” Smith, now in the 12th grade at Anacostia High School (1601 16th St. SE), values what AGAP has taught him and plans to take that education with him as he pursues a career in teaching through the University of the District of Columbia. AGAP’s mentors guide youth like Smith, of elementary through high school ages, to foster their talent and interests in the arts during hour-long after-school sessions at the First Rock Baptist Church (4630 Alabama Ave. SE). But the 16-year-old program offers more than a chance to learn, as Smith discovered. It offers a safe space for youth to realize their own value in the neighborhood, said AGAP Executive Director Maryam Foye. “There’s a disconnect between DC as a whole and the way they view the young people from the communities we serve,” Foye said. “They’re getting a bad rap as being violent and terrible. People are not seeing the traumatic experiences the kids live each day – How am I going to eat? How am I going to make it to the next day?” Foye and the AGAP family want to change that perspective one project at a time. Starting in September on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5-6 p.m., the students participating in this year’s program launched a new intergenerational oral history project to both learn from and share with the elders in their community. Each student will contribute in some way to the recorded interviews between the youth and the adults, Foye said. The project’s final product will reveal the value of perspectives from the youth and the elders. And it will put their own value in view. “Some teenagers are saying, ‘I’m just trying to get to 21,’ and that’s a terrible outlook,” Foye said. “It’s putting who they are and where they are in context.”

Fighting Violence by Enriching through Arts

Vocalists, dancers, and creative artists can find a place with AGAP, said the program’s director, Charneice Fox Richardson. The group is Christianbased but welcomes all students interested in exploring their creative side. Foye and Richardson devote their time to teaching art and advocating for youth around DC. Foye took over as executive director of the program in November 2015, and Milton soon after when the AGAP leadership decided to invest more heavily in building out the program. Many children in the area need a safe place to go after school while parents work. Foye and Richardson envision AGAP offering that space. “Benning Park is known for a lot of violence, gang violence. There are a whole lot of things happening over there that are negative,” Richardson said of the area AGAP serves. “But the city here is rich in history and families.” First Rock Baptist, the church where AGAP meets, has been a staple in the community for more that 50 years, Richardson said. It’s her hope that in this setting the students can learn from and contribute to that robust history still alive across the Anacostia River. Pastor Anthony Minter, First Rock Baptist’s leader, knew the program could help the youth in his community the moment he heard AGAP was searching for a new home about a decade ago. AGAP’s mission relied on the arts to engage the youth of his community and enrich their lives both spiritually and intellectually. “Our whole goal is to be able to impact lives for the greater good,” Minter said. “This gave us the opportunity to do all of the above.” While he manages the space AGAP uses, he doesn’t ever want to seem like the group’s landlord. He and his church partner with them because he believes in AGAP’s mission. “I take

the arts very seriously. It enriches the whole person,” he said. “How do we enhance the talents of those who are in this community and at the same time be able to pour into their lives so they leave from here a better person all around?” The answer he searches for centers around lifting students in his community off of dangerous paths.

Recording History through Generations

Elderly residents hold wisdom worth learning, which AGAP students hope to capture in their current intergenerational oral history project. But youth offer just as much perspective for adults to learn from, Minter said. Mutual sharing creates that growth and connection missing in the neighborhood. “The more we isolate the two, the more we pay the price for how society looks as a whole,” he said. “The two have so much to offer each other, both lives become richer.” Richardson agrees. “Often the elders have a very good perspective but they usually talk at children instead of with children,” she said. She believes the project can open up a conversation between the youth and older generations about the past and present of their community. Then they can share that with the rest of the city on any platform they choose to make public the final recorded interviews. For Foye, it’s another chance to bring fresh opportunity, dignity, and hope to Benning Park and surrounding community. She knows of at least two youth that got shot walking home last year and another man who was jumped. It’s time to focus on the positive aspects of the neighborhood, she said. “Our goal is to provide space for these youth to learn practical skills in an artistic environment, giving them a voice to say, ‘Hey, this is going on my neighborhood, this is who I am.’”

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Jazz Aven ues

October Highlights

by Steve Monroe

KenCen Jazz Returns with a Bang

After a much-deserved summer vacation, jazz returns to the Kennedy Center this month under the direction of artistic director Jason Moran with a star-studded lineup. Jane Ira Bloom, the 2016 Jazz Journalists Association Soprano Saxophonist of the Year, appears at the Terrace Gallery on Oct. 14 with her show “Wild Lines: Jane Ira Bloom Plays Emily Dickinson.” Pianist Fred Hirsch brings a trio to the Terrace Gallery on Oct. 15 with the Harlem String Quartet and Aldo Lopez-Gavilan at the Family Theater on Oct. 17. The Crossroads Club, the venue Moran introPianist and director of jazz studies Allyn Johnson leads the University of the duced upstairs in the atrium that features a dance District of Columbia’s small ensembles and his own Allyn Johnson Ensemble in floor to provide a place for more party-style and performances on Oct. 18 and Oct. 25 at the university. Photo: W.A. Brower multi-genre events, hosts trumpet virtuoso Terence Blanchard and the E-Collective on Oct. 22. And thanks to George V. Johnson Jr. for the Facebook The month wraps up with shows by Tootie clips of the 31st annual Congressional Black Caucus FoundaHeath and “The Whole Drum Truth” on Oct. 22 at the Tertion’s jazz concert last month in DC, featuring swinging trumrace Gallery, and then the drummer’s brother, the living-legpet master Jimmy Owens with the Jazzmobile All-Stars and end saxophonist Jimmy Heath, for a “Jimmy Heath at 90” in our own Washington Renaissance Orchestra swinging and the Concert Hall on Oct. 30. For complete information go to popping behind percussion maestro Nasar Abadey. www.kennedycenter.org.

Welcome to Our World, WOWD-LP

The more the merrier for us jazz fans, so welcome aboard radio station WOWD-LP at 94.3 FM on your dial, a grassroots operation in Takoma Park that has several jazz shows a week. See www.takomaradio.org for compete schedule information.

InPerson … Thad Wilson/ Allyn Johnson, CBCF Jazz

The good folks at JAZZAlive at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) hosted jazz studies director and pianist Allyn Johnson interviewing and playing with trumpeter, composer, film score artist, and bandleader Thad Wilson last month for a vibrant session, as Wilson dug into his philosophies about producing music, audiences, and his career. The session featured the two playing duets, including Johnson’s tune “Brother Leo” (written, he said for Wilson, who is a Leo like Johnson), a romping flight of melodies and interplay between Wilson’s soaring and mellow trumpet lines and Johnson’s ripples and bluesy chords on piano.

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InPerson … Carl Grubbs Ensemble/Celebrating Coltrane

With his edgy alto sax riffs spearing the air in the second-floor jazz hall at the Eubie Blake Cultural Center in Baltimore that September Saturday afternoon, a capacity crowd of attentive listeners enjoyed Carl Grubbs’ tribute to John Coltrane in the “Celebrating Coltrane at 90” concert, while also enjoying his bandmates Rene McLean on alto sax, Eric Byrd, piano, Blake Meister, bass, and John Lamkin III, drums. Grubbs, the Philadelphia native, a cousin by marriage to Coltrane, learned the music first-hand from the legendary saxophonist as a youngster, before embarking on his own career. That afternoon Grubbs dazzled on tunes like “Giant Steps” – mixing in “Body and Soul” phrases – “’Round Midnight,” “Equinox,” and others, with Byrd also a highlight with his insistent melodic runs on piano. Steve Monroe is a Washington, DC, writer who can be reached at steve@ jazzavenues.com and followed at www.twitter.com/jazzavenues.

William Hooker, Oct. 9, Twins Jazz … Akua Allrich/Nina Simone, Miriam Makeba Tribute, Oct. 9, Atlas Performing Arts Center … Collector’s Edition/DeAndrey Howard, Oct. 14, Westminster Presbyterian Church … Nasar Abadey & Super Nova, Oct. 12, Blues Alley … JAZZforum/ Patricia Willard w/ Rusty Hassan, Oct. 12, University of the District of Columbia Recital Hall/Bldg. 46-West … Heidi Martin: ABBEY!, Oct. 13-14, Atlas Performing Arts Center … Jane Ira Bloom, Oct. 14, Kennedy Center … Reginald Cyntje, Oct. 14-15, Twins Jazz … Fred Hersch Trio, Oct. 15, Kennedy Center … Nicole Saphos Quartet, Oct. 16, Twins Jazz … UDC Small Jazz Ensembles, Oct. 18, University of the District of Columbia Recital Hall … Christie Dashiell, Oct. 19, The Mansion at Strathmore … Cheyney Thomas, Oct. 19, Twins Jazz … Twins Jazz Orchestra, Oct. 20, Twins Jazz … Nicole Henry, Oct. 20, Blues Alley … Homecoming for Larry Brown, Oct. 21, Westminster Presbyterian Church … Terry Marshall & Bridges, Oct. 21, Montpelier Arts Center … Terence Blanchard/ECollective, Oct. 22, Kennedy Center … Assaf Kehati Trio, Oct. 24, Blues Alley … Allyn Johnson Ensemble, Oct. 25, University of the District of Columbia Recital Hall … Roy Hargrove, Oct. 25-30, Blues Alley … Afro Bop Alliance-Latin Jazz Night, Oct. 27, Twins Jazz … Cyrille Aimee, Oct. 28, Montpelier Arts Center … Cecile McClorin Salvant, Oct. 29-30, Bethesda Blues & Jazz … Jimmy Heath at 90, Oct. 30, Kennedy Center …

October Birthdays Walter Bishop Jr. 4; Jo Jones 7; Larry Young 7; Pepper Adams 8; Abdullah Ibrahim, Kenny Garrett 9; Thelonius Monk 10; Junior Mance, Harry Edison, Art Blakey 11; Mel Rhyne 12; Art Tatum, Ray Brown, Von Freeman, Lee Konitz, Pharoah Sanders, Johnny Lytle 13; Fela Anikulapo-Kuti 15; Roy Hargrove 16; Cozy Cole 17; Wynton Marsalis 18; Jelly Roll Morton 20; Dizzy Gillespie, Don Byas 21; Ernie Watts 23; Jimmy Heath 25; Milton Nascimento 26; Zoot Sims 27; Clifford Brown 30; Illinois Jacquet, Booker Irvin 31.

DC Ka of Pa

Heal’n Hoop member showing Art All Night in Congress Heights festival guests proper hula hooping technique.

DC Artist Kenilworth Katrina performing in front of guests at the Shepherd Parkway ‘Art at the Park’ stage.

A young Art All Night attendee enjoying hula hooping presented by Heal ‘n Hoop.

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Local artist performing on the main music stage in Congress Heights during Art All Night: Made in DC 2016.

s by Step hanie Vadala A member of the Ward 8 Arts & Culture Council painting a mural depicting Malcolm X, Martin L. King Jr., and Marion Barry Sr.

Art All Night festivalgoers participating in a community discussion on police brutality at the UPO Petey Green Center.

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DC WATER’S FAMILy WATER FESTIVAL

About 500 residents and visitors enjoyed DC Water’s first Family Water Festival, a free, outdoor family-friendly celebration to commemorate the near-completion of the First Street Tunnel Project. It was hosted at the historic and elegant Bryant Street Water Pumping Station with a special invitation to Bloomingdale and LeDroit Park residents whose neighborhoods have been impacted by the construction of the tunnel. Children and adults learning about water and the environment at DC Water’s Family Water Festival.

Attend the 2016 National Christmas Tree Lighting President Obama’s last National Christmas Tree Lighting takes place on the Ellipse in President’s Park on Dec. 1 at 5 p.m. Free tickets for the 94th Annual Tree Lighting ceremony are awarded through an online lottery that closes at 10 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 10. To enter, visit thenationaltree.org and click the TICKET LOTTERY link. Those without computer access may call 877-444-6777 (TDD 877-833-6777) to enter the lottery. Lottery winners will be notified on October 27.

Getting Affordable Housing in Anacostia Right What is the right mix between affordable and market rate homes? What is “affordable?” On Wednesday, Oct. 12, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Vivid Solutions Gallery, 1231 Good Hope Road SE, a panel discusses how to preserve affordable housing in Anacostia while incentivizing new retail opportunities like restaurants, dry cleaners and shops. Explore what tools are available for the community to shape future neighborhood development. This program augments the exhibition “Better Homes and Gardens” on view at Vivid Solutions Gallery through Nov. 19. anacostiaartscenter.com.

Fire and Rescue Community Unity Open House On Tuesday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Anacostia Community Museum opens its doors to its community first responders. There will be light refreshments for all fire and rescue personnel who stop by. Guided tours

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of the museum’s current exhibitions will be available upon request. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.

Contradiction Dance’s 10th Season Opens Entering their 10th season, Contradiction Dance revisits an interactive performance piece that asks us all to consider how society’s treats the “other” in “Objects of Hope: The America Project” at the Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE. Provocative and poignant, the performance deconstructs symbols of society and reconstructs humanity. It makes homelessness, immigration and gun violence personal through the company’s unique blend of movement, theater and music. Each performance concludes with an artist talkback. Remaining shows are on Oct. 8, 13, 14 and 15 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at objectsofhope. brownpapertickets.com. For more information about Contradiction Dance, visit contradictiondance.com.

Ground Work Panel Discussion on Anacostia On Aug. 20 to 28, a team from Groundwork traveled to Yellowstone National Park to perform work projects in support of the National Park Service Youth Conservation Corps program. Four young people represented the program. This year was special because it was the 100th Anniversary Centennial Celebration of the National Park Service at Yellowstone National Park, the nation’s first national park. On Saturday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to noon, a panel dis-

cussion discusses the spectacular scenery and wildlife of Yellowstone national Park and Wyoming and Montana. Participants can share their experiences. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu.

NPS Names New Superintendent for Eastern DC The National Park Service (NPS) has appointed Tara Morrison, currently Superintendent of Rock Creek Park, to become the Superintendent of the group of parks located on Capitol Hill and in Wards 7 and 8 known administratively as National Capital Parks-East. Morrison began her NPS career as an archeology intern in Washington, DC. Her first permanent job was as a park ranger at Boston African American National Historic Site. She has worked with parks and communities from Maine to West Virginia to preserve and share stories of the Underground Railroad. She later served as the first Superintendent of African Burial Ground National Monument in New York City. In that role, she worked with the African Descendant community and led the development of the monument’s visitor center. Morrison begins her new position on Dec. 7. She replaces Gopaul Noojibail, who has been named Deputy Superintendent at the Grand Teton National Park.

THEARC Farm Programs On Saturday, Oct. 22, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., turn your fall harvest into food for the winter. Learn how to can and juice favorite fruits and veggies to preserve them for the winter. On Saturday, Nov. 5, 11 a.m. to 12:30

p.m., learn the basics of prepping a garden plot or bed for winter. This workshop will provide tips on how to plant a cover crop, lay mulch, add row covers for season extension and more. This is a hands-on workshop. Both programs are free. THEARC is at 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org.

Anacostia River Climate Change Forum In response to erratic climate and weather extremes, altered ecosystems and habitats and risks to human health and society, cities across the globe are changing their management of natural resources, updating building codes, investing in more resilient infrastructure and preparing responses to possible emergencies. What does this mean for the average citizen in DC? On Saturday, Oct. 15, 2 to 4 p.m., the discussion will explore climate change outlooks, share proposed solutions to impacts and, most importantly, hear from the community about what efforts are needed to prepare for, respond to and recover from climate change impacts. The evening will end with the opening of “Picture This!” This exhibition of photographs taken by local residents records the change in climate along the Anacostia. The exhibition was organized by DC Department of Energy and the Environment (DOEE). Light refreshments will be served. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu. There will also be a panel discussion on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2 to 4 p.m., on “What does Climate Change Mean for the Average Citizen in DC?”

Discussion of Mental Health and Women of Color On Saturday, Oct. 15, 2 to 4 p.m., mental health care providers and advocates discuss the urban mental health environment specifically as it relates to women of color. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu.

South Capitol Street Corridor Project Information Meeting The District Department of Transportation holds a public meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 9 a.m., about contracting opportunities on the South Capitol Street Corridor Project Phase 1 at Matthews Memorial Baptist Church, 2616 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. The meeting will have two sessions: Session A (9 to 11 a.m.): Program Management/Construction Management

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SATURDAy VOLUNTEER EVENT AT kENILWORTH PARk

Now that fall has arrived, it is time to begin putting the gardens to bed for the winter. On Saturday, Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to noon, volunteers will help the gardens’ staff winterize the plants and grounds or take a last swipe at litter and invasives. Earn SSL credits. To register, sign up at friendsofkenilworthgardens.eventbrite.com. Contact Tina O’Connell at tina@friendsofkenilworthgardens.org with questions. Photo: Courtesy of the National Environmental Education Foundation

Consultant Solicitation Overview of the DBE and Solicitation Provisions; and Session B (1 to 3 p.m.): Design-Build Contract Solicitation Overview of the DBE Provisions, Project Labor Agreement (PLA), and SEP14 - Locally-Based Hiring Preferences. Contact Brandon Cooper, South Capitol Street Corridor Public Information Specialist at info.southcap@dc.gov questions concerning this notice.

Document Eight DC Neighborhoods The Historical Society of Washington, DC invites artists and photographers to submit documentation of the city’s built environment to “For the Record,” its third annual juried competition. This annual exhibition and fundraising sale, opening April 2017, recognizes the best photographs and works of art that capture: Howard Town/Pleasant Plains, Burleith, Palisades, Shepherd Park, Ivy City, Buzzard Point, Kenilworth and Congress Heights. Proceeds from the sale support the programs offered by the Historical Society. Entrants will compete for cash prizes. New this year are eight “Best in Ward” designations that award $100 for the best photograph or artwork representing each ward. Online submissions, with an entry fee of $50, will be accepted through midnight Jan. 3, 2017. Entries received by Oct. 31, 2016 will receive half-off and those received by Nov. 30, 2016 will receive $15 off. For more information, visit dchistory.submittable. com/submit.

Anacostia Tunnel Construction Impacts I-295 Southbound Through Monday, Feb. 27, 2017, weather permitting, the I-295 Southbound entrance ramp at eastbound Suitland Parkway will be closed to all oncoming traffic between the hours of 7 p.m. to 1 p.m. It is advised that southbound South Capitol Street, SE to Overlook Avenue, SE be used as an alternative route for travel to I-295 southbound during the hours of closure. DC Water is constructing the Anacostia River Tun-

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nel, which consists of six shafts located along the tunnel to serve as access points for the tunnel. This infrastructure improvement is a major component of the DC Clean Rivers Project that will reduce CSOs annually by 96 percent throughout the system and by 98 percent for the Anacostia River alone. For more information, visit dcwater.com/cleanrivers.

Help Restore Shepherd Parkway Volunteer from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays, Oct. 15, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10. Meet at the picnic tables near the corner of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X

Avenues SE. Gloves, bags, and light refreshments will be provided. Wear boots and work clothes. For more information, contact Nathan Harrington at nbharrington@yahoo.com or 301-758-5892. Visit shepherdparkway.blogspot.com.

Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards The Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District is accepting submissions for the third annual Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards. The competition will award a $10,000 Grand Prize and a $2,500 Young Songwriter Prize. Permanent, full-time residents of DC are eligible to apply. The award includes a young songwriter category for which an aspiring songwriter, younger than 18, will have the chance to win $2,500. Entries must be received by Friday, Nov. 4. The application and eligibility requirements are at bethesda.org.

Prisons: The New Plantation Today, there are more African American men in jails, prisons, on parole or on probation than were enslaved in 1850. How did Blacks come from slavery which ended in 1865 to find themselves still being enslaved for all intents and purposes in 2016? The public is invited to join academic experts and clergy at this informative town hall to gather insight on how this happened and who, if anyone, is trying to stop it. The public town hall meeting “Prisons � The New Plantation” is on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2 to 4 p.m., at Capitol Hill Presbyterian Church, 201 Fourth St. SE. For more information, call Dr. Alice Bellis, 202-549- 9368 or visit capitolhillpreschurch.org.

DC’s First DICk’S Sporting Goods Opens On Sept. 13, DICK’S Sporting Goods opened its first DICK’S Sporting Goods store in DC. The new store is at the Shops at Dakota Crossing Mall, 2470 Market St. NE. dickssportinggoods.com.

EAST OF THE RIVER BOOk FESTIVAL

The East of the River Book Festival is on Saturday, Oct. 22, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rocketship Rise Academy, 2235 Raynolds Ave. SE. The festival is a free event for readers of all ages. To meet the demand of culturally diverse books, this event highlights the creative work of authors who are independently published and/or from small presses in the area. This year’s event includes poets and bloggers. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes that reflect their favorite author or book character. Storytellers and poets will perform. Reach them at 202-997-4441. eastoftheriverbookfestival.com.

Some of last year’s East of the River Book Festival attendees enjoy a light moment.

People’s Choice for Greenest DC Business DOEE has announced that for the first time since 2009, the District Sustainability Awards include a “People’s Choice” award honoring a DC business or organization for outstanding achievement in sustainability. Vote online at doee.dc.gov until Oct. 10. The nominees for “People’s Choice” are: American University, Atlas Brew Works, Cultivate the City, Green Impact Campaign, OLD CITY Farm and Guild, TCG, Inc. and The DC Dentist. For more information, contact Mary Lynn Wilhere at marylynn.wilhere@dc.gov.

Free Small Business Legal Clinic There is a Small Business Brief Advice Legal Clinic on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 5 to 7:30 p.m., at the John A. Wilson District Building, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. This clinic is for aspiring or existing small business owners. Attendees will meet one-on-one with attorneys for brief advice on any legal issues their businesses may be facing.

Call for DCAC Artist Collective The DC Arts Center (DCAC) is currently accepting applications for “Sparkplug, DCAC’s Artist Collective.” About 10 members participate for 2 years, meeting on a monthly basis to critique each other’s work, discuss exhibitions around the area and visit each other’s studios. DC Arts Center offers members of Sparkplug a place to meet, helps to organize studio visits, provides opportunities to hone presentation skills, and make connections with curators, collectors, and established artists. Applicants should email an application and requested documents to info@dcartscenter.org by Monday, Oct. 24. DCAC will select which applicants to interview. Members will be selected within a week of the final interview. More information can be found at dcartscenter.org/programs_1_sparkplug.htm.

Traffic Ticket Phishing Scam The District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV) is warning customers about a phishing scam to collect money for past due tickets. In an email from info@localmailserver.info, customers are being told that they have a Notice of Unsatisfied Photo Enforcement Ticket. The notice also directs customers to click the link to “Lost Traffic Tickets.” DC DMV only contacts customers via email if they have registered for DC DMV’s email ticket alert system. Customers who receive a scam email should report it to consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0003-phishing.

Schedule a Test Appointment Online DC DMV has launched an online road skills test appointment calendar. Now, District residents holding learner permits can schedule their road test appointment online the day they receive the permit. For those in the GRAD pro-

gram, it is six months from when the learner permit was issued. Residents who are 21 years of age and older may schedule their appointment as soon as one is available. For more information, visit http://dmv.dc.gov/page/ road-skills-tests.

“Safe at Home Act” Approved by DC Council On Sept. 20, the Council of the District of Columbia gave final approval to the Safe at Home Act of 2015. The legislation establishes an accessibility modification grant program for income eligible residents to modify their homes for mobility and safety. Co-introduced by Councilmembers Charles Allen and Jack Evans, it creates a program to pay for the cost of installing home modifications for a person with mobility impairment or other physical disabilities with up to $10,000 per household to improve accessibility in residential housing.

Your VOICE and your CLEAR CHOICE NOV. 8

DDOT Unveils Truck Routing Tool The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has a new feature on its Transportation Online Permitting System (TOPS) that provides customized routes for trucks in the District and is required for oversize/ overweight (OSOW) vehicle permits. The module provides OSOW permit holders with a pre-determined route for safe travel within the District that are customized to avoid height restriction choke points and other hazards. To view the router app outside of TOPs, visit routeplanner.ddot.dc.gov/routeplanner. This tool is available at godcgo.com/freight. To contact DDOT’s Public Space Permits Center, call 202-442-4670.

Changes to Medical Marijuana Program The District of Columbia Department of Health has announced modifications to the Medical Marijuana Program. These changes are designed to improve patient access, remove potential barriers and spur innovation in the District’s medical program. Included is a proposed rulemaking change that increases the quantity of medical marijuana that a patient may receive in a 30-day period from two to four ounces. To learn more, visit doh.dc.gov/service/medical-marijuana-program.

Paid for by Mary Lord 2016, 2125 Newport Place NW, DC 20037; Tadd-Ruddell Tabisola, Treasurer.

Thomas Jenkins & Company Certified Public Accountants Corporation, Partnership, Trust, Individual Income Tax & Financial Planning

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Virginia Avenue SE Closed As part of the Virginia Avenue Tunnel project, eastbound Virginia Avenue SE is closed between Sixth and Eighth Streets. The two blocks will be closed and detours will remain in place until mid-2018 when the Virginia Avenue Tunnel project is expected to be completed.

Capitals Casino Night Tickets Available Capitals Casino Night tickets are now available. Capitals Casino Night will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 29, at the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel. The event benefits Monumental Sports & Entertainment Foundation and features gaming with Capitals players, a raffle, a silent auction and a live auction. All funds raised from the 2016 Capitals Casino Night will benefit MSE Foundation. MSE Foundation is the nonprofit arm of the Washington Capitals that offers unique resources and programs to various charities and nonprofit organizations throughout the D.C. area on behalf of the team. Purchase tickets at ticketmaster.com. Items for the Bulletin Board may be summited to bulletinboard@ hillrag.com.

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the Numbers

DC’s Racial Inequality It Continues to Widen, Even as the City Sees Substantial Economic Growth

n economic recovery is supposed to help more and more people the longer it lasts — but that’s not happening in DC. Our economy has been rebounding since 2010, and income for the typical DC household has jumped a lot, following a nationwide trend. Yet this growth has not reduced poverty. Over 110,000 DC residents lived in poverty in 2015, according to new Census figures — that’s 18,500 more than in 2007. The District’s black residents are bearing the brunt of the city’s unbalanced recovery. The income of the typical black DC household has not grown since 2007, and the gulf between black and white residents is growing. Also, black DC residents are the only racial or ethnic group to face a higher poverty rate today than before the Great Recession. These findings underscore that communities of color in our city suffer from a lack of opportunity to create a better life for themselves and their families. There are some signs, amidst this troubling news, that the social safety net is working. The share of District residents with health insurance rose for the second year in a row, and about 17,000 more residents had health coverage in 2015 than in 2013. This progress is thanks to Medicaid and affordable health plans offered through DC’s healthcare exchange.

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by Claire Zippel and Jodi Kwarciany

If Incomes Are Rising in DC, Why Isn’t Poverty Going Down?

The District’s economy has grown a good deal since the Great Recession, but this hasn’t helped more residents escape poverty, new figures released by the U.S. Census Bureau show. The city’s median household income reached $75,600 in 2015 – meaning half of DC residents are above that income level and half are below. That’s about $13,000 above the pre-recession 2007 level, adjusting for inflation. This gain, which follows a nationwide trend of rising median incomes, is impressive. It means that a lot of DC households are doing well and have recovered from whatever hit they took in the recession. Yet this growth has not pulled enough families out of poverty to reverse the effects of the recession. Altogether, 110,500 District residents were living poverty in 2015, which is considered an income below $24,000 for a family of four. That’s 18,500 more residents living in poverty than in 2007, and nearly one out of every six residents.

DC’s Black Residents Left Out of the Recovery

The District’s black residents have a lot to be worried about. For them, incomes are not rising, and poverty is not going down. These are stark contrasts with the experiences of white DC residents.

More than a quarter of the city’s black population lived in poverty in 2015, compared with 23 percent in 2007. Black DC residents are the only racial or ethnic group that is still facing a higher poverty rate than before the recession. There also is a growing gulf between the incomes of white and black residents. The median income for black DC households stood at just $41,000 in 2015, while the typical white DC household had income of $120,000. While incomes have risen for white residents since 2007, the income of black residents haven’t changed.

Some Good News

For the second year, the share of District residents without health insurance got smaller, according to the Census Bureau. Just 3.8 percent of DC residents lacked health coverage in 2015, compared with 6.7 percent in 2013. While there’s still progress to be made, that’s equivalent to about 17,000 more residents having health coverage. And fortunately, black residents are making gains in this area. For the first time since the enactment of health reform in 2010, black residents have about the same rate of health coverage as white residents, with 96.5 percent having some form of health insurance. Having insurance is important to economic well-being because it ensures that folks can regularly see their health providers when they’re sick or need help managing chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes. When people are regularly receiving care, they’re much less likely to go to emergency rooms – which can be costly for individuals, as well as the hospital or city if folks cannot afford to pay. Much of DC’s success can be attributed to its array of insurance options that have expanded as a result of federal health reform. DC’s Medicaid program now covers nearly all adults with

incomes below 200 percent of the poverty line (less than $40,320 for a family of three). Nearly a third of DC residents get their health coverage from Medicaid, including two out of every three children. In addition, low-income DC residents not eligible for Medicaid can get coverage through the Healthcare Alliance program, and others may qualify for subsidies to pay for private insurance through DC Health Link, the city’s health insurance exchange. When people are able to take care of themselves and don’t have to worry about their health or medical bills, it makes it much easier to do things like hold a job, attend school, add to savings, or take care of a family.

Address DC’s Growing Economic and Racial Gaps

While many of these figures tell us that the city’s new and growing prosperity has left many poor residents and people of color behind, they also show us that with the right strategies, we can reduce these gaps. The city should do more to ensure that all of DC’s residents—including communities of color—share in the city’s recent economic growth. These policies can include: • Reforming the TANF time limit. TANF provides necessary monetary assistance to some of DC’s lowest income families with children. A rigid time limit scheduled to go into effect next year will put these already vulnerable families at risk of losing all assistance. This endangers the financial and mental well-being not only of parents, but also their children. If reforms to the TANF time limits are not made, some 5,800 District families—approximately 98 percent of whom are black—will lose their TANF benefits next year.

ers to offer additional hours to existing employers rather than hiring additional staff; giving workers advance notice of their weekly schedules; and creating a system to provide paid leave to workers who take time off for a personal illness or to care for a family member. • Expanding early childhood education subsidies. This will improve the ability of providers to serve infants and toddlers in DC while sustaining their businesses for the long-term. This will benefit low-income working families by helping to prepare their children for success. • Reforming the city’s job training system. Efforts should focus on offering entry-level jobs and career pathways for workers without advanced education. Given the large number of residents without a high school credential, reforms should focus on adult literacy as well as training and credentialing. Our success as a city depends on opportunity for everyone. The failure to achieve that will leave us with even wider racial and economic inequality and a less stable community. However, the success of programs like Medicaid and DC Health Link proves that we have the tools to level the playing field and expand economic opportunity. Claire Zippel and Jodi Kwarciany are policy analysts at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www.dcfpi.org). DCFPI promotes budget and policy solutions to reduce poverty and inequality in the District of Columbia, and to increase opportunities for residents to build a better future.

• Improving the quality of jobs for all working residents. Policies include requiring employ-

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Whose Congress Heights Dream — Developers or Residents?

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f the council and [the mayor] were serious about affordable housing, they would finalize the regulations for DOPA [the District Opportunity Purchase Act],” said Will Merrifield, staff attorney for the Affordable Housing Initiative of the Legal Clinic for the Homeless. For more than two years, he has been representing low-income, elderly and disabled residents living in apartments in Ward 8’s Congress Heights. When DOPA was approved in 2008 by the DC Council, it gave the executive permission to purchase land from private owners. The law was expected to be an effective weapon against the creep of rising rents and a prime tool for preserving so-called affordable housing. That was eight years and two mayoral administrations ago. Amazingly, the executive branch has yet to promulgate rules and regulations to implement the law. Further, it’s not clear that funds have been allocated to facilitate the purchases. In 2015, Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration promised to release regulations. This past June the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), charged with implementing and administering DOPA, distributed guidelines that read more like an FAQ. Release of the actual regulations was one of the six recommendations made by Housing Preservation Strike Force. During an interview in August 2016, DHCD’s Director Polly Donaldson told East of the River draft regulations will be “released this fall.” Last month, Timothy J. Wilson, a spokesman for DCHD, said that the agency is “making progress. Preparing draft regulations is a process that requires thorough research and vetting. It’s not uncommon for numerous revisions to be drafted prior to making them

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by Jonetta Rose Barras

available for public comment. Once a final draft of the regulations is approved, the public has a 30 day comment period to offer input. Afterward, the final regulations are published.”

Slumming and Suing: A History

Notwithstanding the process, it’s hard to imagine that it has taken eight years to complete. The delay has meant renters, like those at the Congress Heights apartment complex have been pushed out of the city or they have been left to wrestle with unscrupulous landlords. Merrifield said “Congress Heights would be a perfect place to start [DOPA].” Residents living in 3209 13th St SE, 1309 Alabama Ave SE. and 1331-1333 Alabama Ave. SE. could have used the kind of aggressive relief promised by that law. For five years, they have been battling the owner of the properties—Sanford Capital, LLC—and its partners, including CityPartners, LLC, to keep their low-cost housing. (A fifth building was owned by another partnership that owed the city more than $900,000; it has been vacant for years.) When Sanford purchased the four properties in 2011 there were at least 64 tenants living in the 12 apartments, said Ruth Barnwell a long-time resident. Those numbers began to dwindle as Sanford and CityPartners began offering alternative housing as part of their scheme to redevelop the property into commercial offices, retail and upscale apartments--a fraction of which would be called “affordable” but whose cost would be well above what Barnwell and her neighbors are paying. Some tenants accepted the offer; others moved on their own. Still others declined to leave. Thus began a major battle to preserve decent and affordable rental property in Congress Heights. A. Carter Nowell, a principle for Sanford, could not be reached for comment. Geoffrey Griffis with

CityPartners said he has been involved with the Congress Heights properties since 2008. In the beginning, he said, there was “great communication with community leaders and the residents. Things got very negative when the tenants got their current [legal] representative. “The attorney today isn’t about getting what’s best for the tenants and the community,” continued Griffis. “I think he has another agenda.” The shift in tenants’ attitude may have had something to do with the deteriorating condition of the properties, which became a safe-haven for vagrants and a looming trash heap. Periodically in 2015, residents forced the DC Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs to conduct inspections of the properties. The owners were cited for violating the city’s housing code. But they only half-heartedly made repairs. Sanford-CityPartners had won approval from the zoning commission to raze the properties. Some critics have said that they deliberately allowed the apartments to fall into disrepair as a method of emptying the property. Despite having permission to demolish the buildings, Sanford-CityPartners didn’t take that action. Why? The moment they announced such an action, they would have been required to issue a notice to residents under the city’s Tenant Opportunity Purchase Act. TOPA permits residents of rent controlled buildings to purchase their apartments when they are put up for sale. The law considers razing property a type of sale. For months the tenants and Sanford-CityPartners were at a standstill; the property continued to deteriorate. In January 2016, Attorney General Karl Racine jumped into the fray, filing a lawsuit against Sanford Capital and other owners of the properties. He asserted that the buildings were infested with rats; they were filthy, lacked adequate ventilation, and contained other conditions that “constitute a hazard to its occupants or the public.” Earlier this year, a settlement was reached that required consistent upkeep of the property, regular inspections by DCRA and reports to DC Superior Court Judge Frederick H. Weisberg. “We don’t believe Sanford Capital has been making repairs in good faith,” said Merrifield told East of the River last month That may be a moot point, however. The owners have received an offer from a developer to purchase their properties, according to Griffis. That automatically triggered TOPA, providing tenants the right to purchase their buildings. “We thought that was a pretty big victory,” said Merrifield--except, Sanford has asked for a total of $12.5 million. That’s $10 million more than they paid for the property.

Griffis said Sanford did not “put a sale price on it.” Rather, they received an offer and “My partners thought it important to take it seriously.” He referred me to Nowell when I asked about the disparity between the sale price and what the company originally spent to buy the buildings.

Forward Slowly

Instead of sending residents through the cumbersome TOPA process, Merrifield said “City Officials could use DOPA to purchase this property and sell it back to tenants to allow [them] to collectively own.” That’s the same view Barnwell has, although she is somewhat satisfied that at least tenants can exercise some of their rights. ” We met with [DHCD Director] Polly Donaldson almost a year ago. We’ve testified before the city council. We have been disrespected all the way around,” said Barnwell. “Why not let us get those loans? Just like they have sold some property to developers for

$1, why can’t they do that for us? “We’ve never been in their plans from the get go. They just want to bring the rich white people here,” continued Barnwell. “They need to start thinking about the residents, the taxpayers and the people who voted for [them].” Merrifield argued that the city is “subsidizing the hell out of luxury apartments for developers.” He also pointed to the millions being spent at St. Elizabeths for a practice facility for the Wizards basketball team. That sports and entertainment complex would be within spitting distance of the apartment buildings to which Barnwell and her neighbors have clung. Forget about it, said DHCD’s Wilson: “A transparent process needs to be in place in order for the District to effectively exercise its right to purchase through DOPA. We cannot exercise DOPA without regulations.” Merrifield thinks the delay is deliberate, noting that releasing the regulations would be a political headache.

“Politicians want to act like the affordable housing crisis just fell from the sky,” he added. At the very least, said Barnwell and Merrifield the city could relieve them of their worries about that fifth building. “The city needs to work with us to help leverage the strongest deal possible through exercising TOPA,” said Merrifield. Donaldson said in an email to East of the River that the agency has “reached an agreement with the owner of 3200 13th St SE to transfer the property to DHCD under a deed in lieu of foreclosure.” That means it’s in DHCD’s control and “pending resolution of existing litigation there, the agency plans to dispose of the property through a competitive bid process.” She said the disposition would keep in place the current affordable housing covenant. “What we have to do now is to stay organized and help keep things in the

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Photos and graphic: Courtesy of DC.

sunlight,” said Merrifield. “We have to make sure that 3200 isn’t somehow transferred to Sanford Capitol and Geoff Griffis.” Merrifield may not get his wish, however. Griffis said “We’ve had conversations with [DHCD],” about the property. “I don’t know what [the agency] will sell it for. It’s not worth anything on its own.” So while DHCD procrastinates with release of DOPA regulations, the story for Congress Heights residents may not change much. Even if they find a developer to help them purchase their buildings, their futures may still be in jeopardy. jonetta rose barras is a freelance writer based in DC. She blogs at jonettarosebarras.com

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Anacostia: The Extreme Makeover Edition A Legislative Fix for Blighted City Properties in Ward 8

article by Christine Rushton

ucked between the homes of residents in the Anacostia Historic District sit a number of blighted, boarded up and falling apart homes. People have tagged the doors and windows with spray paint, rust and stains mar the paint along the rooflines and the most yard care each sees is an occasional mow. No one lives in these District-owned homes and the cost to repair them would be considerable. DC City Council Chair Phil Mendelson introduced a bill in the July that could change the fate of these houses. Bill 21-837 “The Historic Preservation of Derelict District Properties Act of 2016” aims to give four properties over to the L’Enfant Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving and revitalizing DC’s historic neighborhoods. The Trust would then renovate the properties and sell them to new owners as “workforce housing” —

A rusted, stained District house at 1648 U St. SE on the proposed legislation to transfer to L’Enfant Trust.

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photos by Twyla Alston

affordable housing for people who work in the area to either buy or rent. “The benefit is huge — these vacant and blighted properties would be rehabilitated and put back to use,” Mendelson said. “Second, the properties will be renovated or rehabilitated consistent with the standards of the Anacostia Historic District.” Both Mendelson and Councilmember At-Large Anita Bonds supported the bill at its introduction. Councilmembers Elissa Silverman (I-At-Large), Jack Evans (D-Ward 2), Mary Cheh (D-Ward 3), Brandon Todd (D-Ward 4), Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5), Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1) and former At-Large Councilmember Vincent Orange (D) co-sponsored. The bill will now go through the review and public hearing process with the City Council.

Living Next Door to Squalor

Twyla Alston and her husband Clarence live next door

A broken down District house at 1326 Valley Place SE on the proposed legislation. Twyla Alston lives near this home.

to 1326 Valley Place SE, one of the four blighted properties listed in the Derelict Properties act. It last sold in November 2011 and remains under DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) management. The property is currently valued at about $143,000, according to the DC Real Property database. The brown, wood house has no windows; rickety wood posts prop up the porch overhang; and a rusted, leaning chain link fence separates the property line from neighboring lots. “Our neighborhood has lost many historic structures due to neglect by absentee owners,” Twyla Alston wrote in a letter to the City Council. “The properties outlined in this legislation are owned by the District Government and currently represent an eyesore in our community that attracts trash, crime and other negative behavior.” It’s one of about 150 DHCD-managed vacant properties or buildings in the District, about 68 of which sit in Ward 8, according to District records. Chair Mendelson said one woman he spoke to about the derelict properties said she feared that the boarded house next door might blow over and onto hers. City workers that care for the properties had to cut another house in half because one part was falling off the back, he said. The three other lots listed in the legislation include: 1518 W St. SE, last sold in December 2013 and currently valued at about $149,000; 1648 U St. SE, last sold in May 2004 and currently valued at about $172,000; and 1220 Maple View Place SE, last sold in May 2014 and currently valued at about $198,000, according to the DC Real Property database. “They’re vacant and they’re falling apart,” Mendelson said. That’s where the L’Enfant Trust comes in. The nonprofit created an acquisitions revolving fund from grant and donation money to rehabilitate and sell historic Anacostia houses, said Trust Executive Director Lauren McHale. The 1772 Foundation, a Rhode Island group

A blighted District house at 1220 Maple View Place SE on the proposed legislation.

dedicated to revitalizing historic areas, is the Trust’s biggest donor. “We wanted to work in a target neighborhood where rehabilitation will help revitalization,” McHale said. “It was clear to us Anacostia was the place to be… It has a really special history and a lot of people don’t realize what’s over there.” Two other Trust projects in Anacostia cost the foundation nearly $250,000 in rehab costs over the resale price. But the Trust doesn’t want to make a profit — it wants to revive the community’s history. “They’re very costly rehabs because they’re so deteriorated,” McHale said. “But also, you have to keep that historic integrity intact. And where you can’t reuse original material, you have to replace with an in-kind material.”

A WINDFALL FOR RESIDENTS AND THE DISTRICT

Every time the city boards up, cuts the grass, installs temporary stabilizing beams or cuts off a section of these houses, it costs. Depending on the project, that bill can soar to tens of thousands of dollars, Mendelson said. Even worse, if a person gets hurt on a property because of the dangerous conditions from years of neglect, it could mean a liability suit against the District, he said. “It would be a windfall by no longer having these negative valued properties and the costs associated with that,” Mendelson said. Handing these properties to the L’Enfant Trust gives the Trust a chance to use their own funds as a tax-exempt non-profit to rehabilitate each of the four buildings to the historic district standards in DC. Then the Trust can sell them to people who will live there and take care of the property. Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Charles E. Wilson (8A05) thinks the legislation is “brilliant.” He represents the Anacostia neighbors in the Historic District and said he’s watched the community fight for the District to fix these properties for more than 10 years. “Just imagine getting up in the morning, going to work and seeing a (continues on pg.39)

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Police Go Back to School at Anacostia High’s Public Safety Academy Starting Community Policing in the Classroom by Christine Rushton

onsider this scenario: A Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer stops to talk with a group of high school students in Ward 8. Neighbors had reported suspicious behavior from the group, so the officer drove by to see. But the students push back at the officer’s offer to talk and accuse him of not knowing what it’s like to grow up in the area. The officer responds that actually, he does know. He graduated from Anacostia High School (1601 16th St. SE) before joining the force. Joseph Persichini imagines this scenario for the future of DC’s community policing. Persichini knows what works; he spent 33 years with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and now serves as the executive director of the DC Police Foundation, a group that supports the MPD. Successful community policing starts in the classrooms of the neighborhoods MPD serves, he said. “People are going to challenge you, ‘You have no idea where we live and what we do,’” Persichini said. “When you hire someone from the area, you automatically gain credibility. They made it, they lived in the neighborhood, they overcame the challenge.” Persichini started this process when he joined the DC Police Foundation in 2010 and launched junior cadet programs in five of DC’s fifth-grade classrooms. On Sept. 15 Mayor Muriel Bowser and interim Chief of Police Peter Newsham announced the formation of the Public Safety Academy at Anacostia High School, creating a pipeline of potential MPD officers from within the community. “We wanted to establish pipelining – young people starting at an early age, engaging with that trust and confidence with law enforcement officers,” he said.

FIGHTING A DEFICIT OF OFFICERS

DC police face a retirement deficit. Officers hired during a surge in the 1980s have reached retirement, and the MPD needs to hire more in order to sustain the numbers. Minority recruitment across the nation is also down, Persichini explained. MPD wants to hire an average of 300 officers each year for the next 10 years to offset the retirements, and it wants to hire District residents if possible. Sequan Cannon wants to be one of those hires after he completes the Public Safety Academy and joins the cadet program. Cannon is a 10th grader and Ward 7 resident at Anacostia in the program’s inaugural year. He wants to join the MPD because he thinks his understanding of his own community will help him bring safety that people trust. “I see how a lot of police officers are acting to minority people,” he said. “I think it would be better with me as a police officer because, if I was in the neighborhood I grew up in, people would respect me.” DC Police Foundation Executive Director Joseph Persichini, Director of Marking and Operations Rebecca Schwartz, and MPD Officer Eugene Mackey join students from the junior cadet program. Photo: DC Police Foundation

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DC police cadets mentor junior cadets through the DC Police Foundation’s elementary school program. Photo: DC Police Foundation

His grandfather served as a DC police officer from 1989 to 2011, so he knows the career he intends on pursuing. He also pursues a rigorous academic and extracurricular schedule as a member of Anacostia’s debate, basketball, rugby, and baseball teams. Should he decide not to pursue the cadet program three years from now, he will still graduate with college credit and knowledge about the law. He can apply those skills to whatever career he decides upon. But opting out isn’t a likely case. “Growing up, my grandfather had a big influence on me because he was a police officer,” Cannon said. “Ever since, I’ve wanted to be a police officer.” Cannon, the 60 other students enrolled in this year’s Police Safety Academy, and at least 130 more students in the junior cadet program are a start to what Persichini and MPD hope will grow into a robust pool of cadet candidates.

EARNING FREE COLLEGE CREDIT IN HIGH SCHOOL

After nearly six years, MPD now has a pipeline of special programs running from elementary-aged to high school-aged students to give District students a jump start at a career in law enforcement. Students in the Anacostia program will earn credits in four college-level courses toward their future degree or the MPD’s cadet program through the University of the District of Columbia Community College (UDC-CC). Those four classes are spread over three years and led by Anacostia teacher Chisa Perry. Students take courses on law, public safety, and history, among other topics, said Erin Bibo, deputy chief of college and career education at DC Public

High school graduates and police cadets participate in an outreach program for recruitment. Photo: DC Police Foundation

DC police cadets mentor fifth-graders in the DC Police Foundation’s junior cadet program. Photo: DC Police Foundation

Schools. They also get an opportunity to go on trips to the DC courts and elsewhere, and learn from guest instructors from Georgetown University, the MPD, the Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI, and experts in fields like forensic science. “Public safety is a very broad field and a very lucrative career in the DC area,” Bibo noted. “It exposes students to the breadth and depth of the opportunities in public safety in their own community.” Academy students also have access to paid summer internships through the DC Police Foundation’s members, the MPD, and the DC Department of Employment Services, Bibo said. Once they graduate they can choose whether or not to enroll in the cadet program, at an average annual salary of $30,000, while taking courses toward a 60-credit associate’s degree at UDC-CC. The MPD and the DC Police Foundation “really want to commit even more and reaffirm recruiting and hiring among DC residents,” Bibo remarked. “They’re wanting to remain a leader in community policing, and have a deep commitment to … working with students interested in public safety.” The program only operates at Anacostia for now, but DCPS and the MPD hope to grow it in the coming years, she added. Persichini thinks the students pursing public safety will find honor, reward, and satisfaction in protecting their own communities. He views the matriculation of young cadets from an elementary age as the next step in 21st-century policing. “Is it going to take time? Yes,” he said. But he and the District are looking at the future of DC’s police force with long-term goals in mind. “Law enforcement cannot be successful without the faith and trust of the people it serves,” he said.

Sequan Cannon is a 10th-grader and student at the Anacostia High School Public Safety Academy. Photo: DCPS

house next door; Coming home, seeing the house; Cutting your grass, sitting on the porch and seeing the house,” Wilson said. “Imagine the kind of disgust that builds up over the years.” He met with the last four directors of DHCD because this is the neighborhood’s number one priority, he said. But it’s his opinion that the agency isn’t interested in restoring the houses to their original state. “Fixing up a house is not sexy enough for them,” he said. “A house versus building a largescale apartment unit or delivering a number of affordable housing units is not enough for them.”

UNDERSTANDING DHCD’S CONCERNS

McHale said resistance to the bill comes from DHCD. She and the Trust tried to approach DHCD a few years back about partnering to fix these houses, but she said DHCD was wary of L’Enfant’s lack of experience in development and rightfully so. The Trust decided to get that experience on two other Anacostia properties first and came back to DHCD for another try after successfully rehabilitating the houses. In fact, the Office of Planning’s Historic Preservation Office awarded L’Enfant Trust a preservation award in 2015 for the program it started with the two homes in Anacostia. “We support innovative tools that could help avoid demolition of historic homes due to longtime neglect,” a spokesperson for the Office of Planning said. “We also see partnerships with non-profit organizations as an effective way to support preservation.” McHale hopes this success will show DHCD that the Trust can help repair these homes. “These properties have been sitting for so long,” she said. “It’s not fair to the neighbors. It’s not safe.” DHCD Director Polly Donaldson said the agency prioritizes preserving affordable housing. Since Mayor Muriel Bowser took office, she said DHCD has worked to increase solicitations and get the properties fixed or developed — at least half of DHCD’s vacant or blighted properties are in this stage. But giving away a property outside of this process goes against the agency’s mission. “Doing so could negatively impact our goal to preserve affordability, eliminates DC’s first source and CBE priorities, and discourages the District from getting the best deal for its assets by giving them away without a competitive process,” Donaldson said in a statement. Handing the properties over to the L’Enfant Trust would do this, but Mendelson added that he thinks DHCD’s worries that the District might lose out on the value of these properties isn’t warranted. A resale price might not even come close to the cost to rehab each one, he said. “These are money losers for the city,” he said. With Mendelson’s support and the drafted legislation, the bill has made it to Council review. A public hearing was also set for Oct. 6.

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Chasing Lupus Many Black Women Struggle to Make Sense Of Their Pain

“I

by Candace Y.A. Montague

hate for people to ask how I’m doing because there’s always something wrong,” declares Sonjiah Davis with a deep sigh. “When I wake up in the morning it’s like waking up with the flu. It takes me about half an hour to an hour just to get out of bed. I’m never 100 percent better.” How does a vibrant young woman go from being a dancer and yoga teacher to struggling with getting out of bed in the morning? Why can’t a physician explain what’s going on? Davis’ pursuit of answers mirrors the same quest by thousands of black women across the country. They suffer from inexplicable pain, sometimes excruciating, and they do not know the source, whom to see about, it or how to get long-term relief.

Flames and Butterflies

Davis, 44-year-old hostess of the “Get Your Mind Right” show on We Act Radio, has a tentative lupus diagnosis. Lupus is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks itself. The immune system attacks organs and tissues and causes inflammation. The most common type of lupus is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It can affect the skin, joints, lungs, brain, kidneys, and blood vessels. Although it can present in different ways, a few common symptoms are extreme fatigue, a butterfly-like rash across the face, inflammation in the joints, skin problems including sun sensitivity, and lung, heart, and kidney problems. Symptoms can present during a “flare,” which can be stress induced and go away during remission, which can last for weeks to years. The Lupus Foundation of America estimates that 1.5 million people have lupus in the United States. It is two to three times more prevalent among women of color and is most common among women during their childbearing years (ages 18-44). Davis’ symptoms had presented themselves randomly since her early 20s, in growing severity. “My rheumatologist said I’ve probably had it since my late teens. I was a dancer in my 20s so I had aches and trouble breathing at times. I would pass it off as a result of working too hard. When I was in my early 20s I got hit in the leg with a bat. I went to physical therapy and they said it’s going to be okay.” But the signs of trouble continued to come. She had knee pain and indiscriminate bouts with nocturnal numbing sensations in her legs. Her primarycare physician suspected that the symptoms were from fibromyalgia or multiple sclerosis. When Davis finally saw a rheumatologist who examined her history and test results, the picture started to look clearer.

The Challenge of Getting a Diagnosis

Once a person presents multiple factors simultaneously, a physician can reach a lupus diagnosis. But symptoms can come and go or resemble other illnesses, and

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getting a true diagnosis can take anywhere from a few months to several years. Meanwhile there is pain – from inflamed joints or a widespread rash or migraine headaches. Waiting for a lupus diagnosis can mean living with constant fatigue and repeated battles with bronchitis or pneumonia. Why must a woman suffer from symptoms like this for so long? Dr. Sharon Dowell, assistant professor of medicine and a rheumatologist at Howard University, explains that lupus isn’t so easy to pinpoint. “There is no one red flag but instead it could be many small things together. A person with a skin rash Sonjiah Davis, We Act Radio host of the “Get Your Mind probably would have Right” talk show, struggles daily with lupus challenges. more difficulty being diPhoto: Robert Holliday agnosed than someone with a glaring symptom like a butterfly rash or joint pain or kidney problems. I had one patient who was diagnosed [with lupus] because she had kidney failure. She had skin rash and hair loss and hypertension. Her doctor thought that the hypertension and kidney failure were somehow linked. He never knew about her hair loss because she wore a weave or extensions. And she never discussed her skin rash with him. She had alopecia in addition to the skin rash, which is a red flag.” Dr. Dowell urges women to share all of their health concerns with their primary-care physician sooner rather than later.

Where Are the Specialists?

It takes more than a primary-care physician to get to the bottom of lupus symptoms. It can take dermatologists, oncologists, rheumatologists, pulmonologists, and more. But in Wards 7 and 8 a patient would be hard pressed to find such specialists. Davis travels from her Hillcrest neighborhood in Southeast to George Washington University Hospital in Northwest for care. “I’m an entrepreneur and I have DC Medicaid. It’s frustrating going to a doctor east of the river because the facilities are not that good. Once I had to go see a cardiologist. His office was unkempt and not up to par. Just because someone has Medicaid doesn’t mean they deserve subpar service.” Once a patient locates a specialist, the waiting game begins. The Affordable Care Act has flooded the market with newly insured patients but it hasn’t expanded the pool of available specialists. It took Davis three months to see a rheumatologist, and that was because she was persistent. A Merritt Hawkins 2014 survey reported that a patient in Washington, DC, could expect an average wait

real estate / changing hands Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list,based on the MRIs, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

time of 32 days to see a cardiologist. For a patient seeking answers to pain, a four-week waiting period can feel like years.

Other Complications

The dominos continue to fall when facing employment problems. Employment becomes increasingly difficult, which can lead to insurance woes. The Center for Disease Control reports that on average only 46 percent of people with SLE remain employed. Filing for disability is no easy feat, with many claims being denied. Akilah Hill, health educator at the Lupus Foundation of America, stresses that women should stay encouraged during these times. “A lot of patients I speak with have trouble with getting disability insurance. Many of our patients get denied the first time and they often become discouraged. With the right resources they can get their benefits.”

Management Is Everything

Many women manage their lupus symptoms and live a healthy life. Basic healthy practices such as a good diet and exercise can reduce symptoms and flare ups. Reducing stress and addressing mental health issues like depression also create a more balanced picture for women living with lupus. Getting a solid support system in place with compassionate, loving people can clear quite a few hurdles as well. Davis credits her strong marriage for her management success: “My husband is my rock.” Being aware of one’s body and relentless about addressing concerns is the ultimate plan for victory over lupus. Challenges will come, but with the right resources in place they won’t remain. For more information contact the Lupus Foundation of America DMV chapter, www.lupus.org/dmv, or call 202-787-5380. Candace Y.A. Montague is the health reporter for Capital Community News.

Neighborhood

Close Price BR

817 30TH ST SE Deanwood

4259 BROOKS ST NE 1025 50TH ST NE Fee Simple 5316 JAY ST NE 4707 KANE PL NE Anacostia 122 57TH ST SE 1716 16TH ST SE $475,000 3 4429 FOOTE ST NE 1618 U ST SE $450,000 3 317 DIVISION AVE NE 1616 U ST SE $450,000 3 31 ANACOSTIA RD NE 1622 U ST SE $445,000 3 5060 JUST ST NE 1434 V ST SE $252,000 3 263 55TH ST NE 1414 19TH ST SE $239,000 2 1022 47TH PL NE 5210 CLAY ST NE Chillum 1327 49TH ST NE 5900 2ND PL NW $620,000 3 5124 JUST ST NE 121 RITTENHOUSE ST NW $540,000 4 210 56TH PL NE 245 MISSOURI AVE NW $500,000 3 300 41ST ST NE 18 MADISON ST NE $395,000 4 6121 DIX ST NE 252 57TH PL NE Congress Heights 5106 JUST ST NE 1015 SAVANNAH ST SE $450,000 5 95 55TH ST SE 3336 BROTHERS PL SE $349,500 3 4205 HAYES ST NE 448 LEBAUM ST SE $336,000 5 4917 SHERIFF RD NE 830 HR DR SE $330,000 3 138 XENIA ST SE 202 MALCOLM X AVE SE 402 OAKWOOD ST SE 302302 RALEIGH ST SE 1026 SOUTHERN AVE SE 919 BLAKNEY LN SE 414 MELLON ST SE 913 BLAKNEY LN SE 3313 11TH PL SE 251 OAKWOOD ST SE 866 BELLEVUE ST SE 502 FOXHALL PL SE

$325,000 $299,000 $276,000 $269,000 $260,000 $255,000 $235,000 $235,000 $227,000 $200,000 $197,804 $120,000

4 2 2 3 4 3 3 3 2 3 2 2

$418,000 $417,000 $360,000 $360,000 $340,000 $325,000 $312,000 $306,000 $290,000 $288,000 $284,330 $280,000 $277,500 $257,000 $250,000 $239,900 $227,000 $215,000 $200,000 $161,000 $141,000 $106,000

Fort Dupont Park

1136 46TH ST SE 1155 44TH PL SE 4336 F ST SE 3103 E ST SE 4230 H ST SE

$443,500 $439,900 $345,000 $330,000 $250,000

Hill Crest

2902 PARK DR SE 2941 W ST SE 1513 28TH PL SE

$610,000 $584,900 $429,000

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$385,000 $385,000 $215,000

3208 LOUD PL SE 2930 M PL SE

Kingman Park 1631 F ST NE

$625,000

Marshall Heights 5010 B ST SE 5020 IVORY WALTERS LN SE 846 51ST ST SE 5333 ASTOR PL SE 230 54TH ST SE

$430,000 $350,000 $324,000 $254,900 $245,000

Randle Heights 2403 NAYLOR RD SE 3017 30TH ST SE 1425 TOBIAS DR SE 1855 TUBMAN RD SE 1456 ALABAMA AVE SE 3427 24TH ST SE

$1,600,000 $379,555 $358,200 $355,000 $239,000 $226,000

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CONDO Deanwood 948 EASTERN AVE NE #11

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Hill Crest 2100 SUITLAND TER SE #202

$62,000

Randle Heights 3 4 3

5 3 3

1907 GOOD HOPE RD SE #302 3103 NAYLOR RD SE #101

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kids & family

by Kathleen Donner

The Big Build at the National Building Museum

The Big Build is on Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. It is an interactive, funfor-all-ages celebration of the built environment. Learn from construction and building arts professionals while hammering nails, sawing logs, applying join compound, hopping aboard real trucks and more. Each year at the Big Build, amateur builders young and old can discover what it’s like to build a brick wall, carve stone, hammer nails and much more. Work side-by-side with designers, builders and artisans demonstrating their skills. Meet plumbers, ironworkers, landscape architects, woodworkers and experts in many other fields to learn about their professions and hobbies. Admission is free. nbm.org.

Photo: Emily Clack Photography

The Nutcracker at THEARC Save the dates, Nov. 26 and 27, 1 p.m., for DC’s perennial favorite. This celebrated production is set in historic Georgetown with George Washington and King George III among other historical figures. Ward 7 and 8 residents pay only $15. thearcdc.org.

Calling All Preschool Readers Calling all readers ages three to five. Do you like stories? If you do, then grab your grownup and pay Capitol View Library a visit on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (until Feb. 1, 2017) at 10:30 a.m. The 30-40 minute reading programs are designed to pro-

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mote language and listening skills. Join them and exercise the mind with stories and activities that spark the imagination and arouse curiosity. School groups are welcome. Call Capitol View Library at 202-645-0755 to schedule a time and date. Capitol View Neighborhood Library is at 5001 Central Ave. SE. dclibrary.org/capitolview.

DPR Fun Days When the DC Public Schools are closed for staff development, The DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) will offer “DPR Fun Days.” These are free, single-day programs of enriching activities such as sports

and athletics, arts and crafts and more for children between the ages of 6 and 12. DPR Fun Days are scheduled for select sites on Friday, Dec. 2, 2016 and Friday, Feb. 17, 2017. DPR Fun Days in Ward 7 are at Benning Park Community Center and Deanwood Recreation Center. DPR Fun Days in Ward 8 are at Bald Eagle Recreation Center, Barry Farm Recreation Center and Ferebee Hope Recreation Center. Please note, lunch or snacks are not provided. These free events require online registration at dcdpr.asapconnected.com/CourseDetail.aspx?CourseId=12120. Registration will open two weeks prior to each Fun Day.

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sel, Oct. 28 to Dec. 24; and Moby Dick, Nov. 18 to Dec. 24. arenastage.org.

Story Time at Francis A. Gregory Saturdays at 11 a.m., come in for weekend story time as everyone reads, sings and rhymes. This program is recommended for families with children ages 0 to 5. Then join in afterwards for their Imaginative Play program. Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library is at 3660 Alabama Ave. SE. 202-6986373. dclibrary.org/francis.

Free Application for Federal Student Aid

Kids’ Day at the Horse Show

The Washington International Horse Show Kids’ Day will take place on Saturday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. Outdoor activities will be held in front of the Hotel Monaco, 700 F St. NW and face painting and other events will be held on the Verizon Center concourse. This is a free, fun, family-friendly event created to share the joy of horses and teach kids and their families about horses and equestrian sport. Children can participate in more than a dozen hands-on educational and fun activities, including pony rides, the Animal Planet Horseless Horse Show, the Horse Stars Hall of Fame interactive exhibit, horseshoe painting, face painting, pony brushing lessons, plus giveaways from Paisley Pony magazine and Georgetown Cupcake. Klinger, the famous horse from the US Army Caisson Platoon, often attends as a special guest to greet the children. There’s even a pony kissing booth with mini pony, “Leo, The Magnificent.” wihs.org.

Kids’ Day Pony Kissing Booth Photo: Lindsay Bock Jump Media

Celebrate the Reopening of NGA’s East Building

Carousel and Moby Dick Family Fun Packs

This celebratory weekend, Saturday, Nov. 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 6, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., features live music and inspiring performances, interactive tours of modern art and handson art making. Explore the National Gallery of Art’s reconfigured collection of modern art, showcased in newly renovated galleries and discover the new outdoor Roof Terrace. All activities are free; participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. All ages. nga.gov.

Arena Stage’s Family Fun Pack offers four seats for only $125. Orders must include a minimum of two patrons between ages 5 and 17 per Family Fun Pack and cannot be combined with any other offer or applied to previously purchased tickets. There is a limit of two Family Fun Packs per household. All standard fees apply. Family Fun Packs must be purchased by phone or in person. Other restrictions may apply. Family Fun Packs are available for Carou-

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The White House and US Department of Education have launched this year’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid. It is available, for the first time, three months earlier than the traditional Jan. 1 date. Find it at fafsa.ed.gov. “Students [like you] want to take that next step and have big dreams. We want you to know that we’re there to help you achieve those dreams. We want to make sure that we’re giving every student who’s willing to put in the effort all the tools that they need in order to succeed,” said President Barack Obama (D).

Kids Euro Festival 2016 Kids Euro Festival is a two-week long festival of European arts and culture presenting free activities to DC area children and their families. There are performances, concerts, workshops, movies and storytelling sponsored by the 28 European Union Member States. Details are at kidseurofestival.org.

Flowers Stink at the Botanic Garden Living in a big city, a.k.a. “the concrete jungle,” sometimes it’s hard to appreciate the great outdoors. That’s definitely the case with one middle school girl, who’s struggling with writing a nature-themed poem for school. Giving up, she tweets: “#poetryisstupid #natureisborings #flowersstink.” Suddenly, two zany and loveable plants magically come to life in her room, encouraging her to open her eyes, ears and mind to the beauty all around her. Pointing to her own family history, the girl’s newfound friends transport her imagination

to the flora of a desert, a volcano and a rain forest to help unleash her creativity. Mixing plenty of singing and dancing with folk, bluegrass, blues and gospel, this colorful world premiere musical by the Helen Hayes Award-winning creators of Dizzy Miss Lizzie’s Roadside Revue shows that, one can find the best of nature in the most unlikely places. Flowers Stink is on Saturdays, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 at 11 a.m. It’s free. Flowers Stink is performed outdoors on the Amphitheatre stage at the US Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. In case of rain, the show will be moved to the Conservatory in the West Gallery. usbg.gov.

A Ghoulishly Good Concert This year’s Capital City Symphony family concert is inspired by the spookiness and fantasy of Halloween. Come in costume to join in the fun. On Sunday, Oct. 16, 3 to 4 p.m., at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE, face the ghosts and ghouls of Saint-Saëns’ Danse Macabre and Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain. Enter the fairy tale world of Stravinsky’s The Firebird. Along the way learn how the instruments of the orchestra combine to bring these amazing stories to life. 30 minutes before show time, meet the musicians at the Instrument Petting Zoo. Kids, 16 and under, are free; students are $15 and adults, $25. Reach the box office at 202-399-7993. atlasarts.org.

Environmental Essay Contest The District of Columbia’s Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) and the US Department of Justice have announced an environmental essay contest open to all sixth through eighth grade students in the District. The contest, part of Mayor Muriel Bowser’s 202Creates citywide effort to showcase the District’s diverse and vibrant creative community, challenges students to address the following questions in 300 to 500 words. What do you think is an important environmental issue facing the District? How can you be part of the solution? The deadline for entry is Nov. 1, 2016. Entries will be reviewed by a panel of judges consisting of professionals

in the fields of education and environment. Ten finalists will receive prizes, including solar backpacks and will be recognized at an awards ceremony hosted by the Department of Justice on Dec. 9 from10 to 11:30 a.m. The first ten teachers whose entire classes submit essays will receive up to $150 in classroom supplies; and the opportunity for their classes to take boat tours of the Anacostia River. All students who submit essays will be invited to the awards ceremony. For more information or to submit an essay, visit doee.dc.gov/page/essay.

Saturday Mornings at The National On select Saturday mornings, The National Theatre hosts free programs designed to engage and inspire the young mind. Saturday programming is best suited for children four to 10 years of age. Siblings and friends are always welcome. Performances take place Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the Helen Hayes Gallery. The National Theatre is at 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets may be reserved one week prior to the performance. The reservation system closes at 10 a.m. on the Friday before the performance. Walk-ins are welcome if there is room. Register and get more information at thenationaldc.org. Here’s the remaining fall lineup: Oct. 1, Andres 123; Oct. 15, Valerie Branch--The People We Meet and the Friends We Keep!; Oct. 22, Discover Theatre, Fabulous Fairytales; Oct. 29, Traveling Lantern “Ben Franklin”; Nov. 5, Jon Sands ─ Slam Poetry for Kids; Nov. 19, Rainbow Puppets: The Really Big Dinosaur Show; Dec. 3, Music Around the World; Dec. 10, Virginia Ballet Company & School, Nutcracker.

Songwriting Contest The Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District is accepting submissions for the third annual Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards. The competition will award a $10,000 Grand Prize and a $2,500 Young Songwriter Prize. Permanent, full-time residents of DC are eligible to apply. The award includes a young songwriter category for which an aspir-

ing songwriter who is younger than 18 will have the chance to win $2,500. Entries must be received by Friday, Nov. 4. The application and eligibility requirements are at bethesda.org.

Volcanoes: Bilingual Tales of El Salvador In Mayan volcano is ixcanul (fire mountain). A volcano’s fire is hot, alive, and beautiful, like the stories and folktales from El Salvador. A fun-filled musical spectacle for children five to ten, Volcanoes combines past and present, myth and stories of everyday life. Volcanoes: Tales of El Salvador by Cornelia Cody is at GALA, Oct. 8 to 22. Tickets are $12 for ages 15 and older; $10 for ages 2 to 14. Infants one year and under are free. GALA Hispanic Theatre is at 3333 14th St. NW. galatheatre.org. GALita is dedicated to producing children’s theater in both Spanish and English that inspires a sense of joy, discovery, pride and self-identity in the community’s youngest members. GALita’s presentations are bilingual and accessible across language barriers, thus nurturing children’s curiosity and tolerance for cultures other than their own.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time Based on the bestselling novel, this heartwarming story has an unforgettable young hero whose investigation of a mystery leads to a life-changing adventure. At the Kennedy Center Opera House Oct. 5 to 23. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Tickets from $39. kennedy-center.org.

NSO Pops Halloween Extravaganza They’re back by popular demand! Spooky fun abounds as Cirque de la Symphonie wows with sensational acrobatics and powerful music in a new Halloween-themed spectacular. Bring the whole family for this breathtaking and lively high-flying display. Tickets from $24. Performances are Thursday, Oct. 13, 7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, Oct. 14 and 15, 8 p.m.; and Sunday Oct. 16, 2 p.m. in the Kennedy Center Concert Hall. kennedy-center.org.

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Under the Big Top Family Day at SAAM The circus is in town! On Saturday, Oct. 22, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., SAAM takes you under the Big Top for an afternoon of dazzling feats with performers from Acrobatic Conundrum. Try carnival games, grab a tasty bag of popcorn or make a mask inspired by a favorite circus animal. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and F Streets NW. americanart.si.edu.

ment, try 18th-century dancing in the upper garden. Historic chocolate-making demonstrations and chocolate tastings will take place. A children’s costume parade will begin at 5 p.m. and prizes will be awarded for most fang-tastic “George” and “Martha” costumes. Trick-or-Treating at Mount Vernon takes place rain or shine. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for kids, 11 and under. mountvernon.org.

through Nov. 18. This show is recommended for ages 4 and up. Running time is 40 minutes. Tickets are $12. thepuppetco.org. Remainder of 2016-2017 season shows: The Nutcracker, Nov. 25 to Dec. 30; Goldilocks, Jan. 19 to Feb. 19; Jack and the Beanstalk, Feb. 23 to March 26; The Three Billy Goats Gruff, March 30 to April 30; and Cinderella, May 4 to June 11.

Dia de Los Muertos Family Day at SAAM

New Resource- to Improve Child Care Quality

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with SAAM. On Saturday, Nov. 5, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., enjoy traditional Mexican folk dance performances throughout the day, add artwork to their mural, and leave handmade ofrendas (offerings) including paper marigolds, calaveras (skull masks) and paper monarch butterflies on the Day of the Dead altar. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and F Streets NW. americanart.si.edu.

The Bainum Family Foundation has announced the launch of a new online resource-sharing platform serving early care and education professionals in the DC. Early Childhood Share DC (ecsharedc.org) offers licensed providers a knowledge hub of customizable resources that will make it easier to develop and implement high-quality child care programming. The site was developed by the Foundation in partnership with the District’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). The site features comprehensive resources on topics ranging from curriculum, program administration, training, health and safety, marketing, family engagement and more. In addition to providing discounts on common supplies and services, the site consolidates District-specific information and materials like OSSE regulations and forms. Several dozen local early learning experts worked with the Foundation and OSSE to tailor the site to meet the District’s needs.

Ever loved a special doll or stuffed toy? Abilene adores her china rabbit doll, Edward Tulane. But, Edward is spoiled and ungrateful until fate takes him on an emotional rollercoaster of an adventure through the 20th century. He is lost overboard on an ocean liner, fished up by a kindly villager, dumped in a heap of garbage, rescued by a hobo and his dog, turned into a scarecrow and adopted by a little boy who gives him as a gift to his sickly sister. Little by little, Edward discovers goodness and humility. Inspired by the constellations, he learns to keep an open heart. Kate DiCamillo’s awardwinning book translates beautifully to the stage. And, as in all good stories, even our reluctant hero finds a happy ending! Best for ages 6 and up. Tickets are $15 to $35. The show runs Oct. 8 to 30 at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, MD. 301-2801660. imaginationstage.org. Here’s the remaining Imagination Stage lineup: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Nov. 9 to Jan. 25; The Freshest Snow Whyte, Feb. 11 to March 28; The Jungle Book, April 22 to May 28; Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure, June 21 to Aug. 13.

The Secret Garden When 10-year-old Mary Lennox loses her parents to a cholera epidemic in the British Raj of India, she travels to England to stay with Archibald Craven, her remote and morose uncle, still grieving the death of his wife ten years ago. Terrified of every nook and cranny of the haunted Craven Manor on the Yorkshire Moors, Mary seeks refuge in her late aunt’s mysterious walled garden, where she discovers amazing secrets. Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon’s Drama Desk and Tony Award-winning musical based on the beloved children’s book, “The Secret Garden,” is a story of hardship turned into hope, of beauty discovered in unlikely places, the power of the child’s imagination and the wisdom that accompanies growing up. On stage at Shakespeare Theatre, Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. shakespearetheatre.org.

Boo at the Zoo On Friday, Oct. 22 to Sunday, 23, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., don’t miss DC’s favorite not-so-spooky Halloween haunt, “Boo at the Zoo.” With more than 40 treat stations, animal demonstrations, keeper chats, and decorated trails, this frightfully fun evening is a treat for the whole family. Also, don’t miss a themed hay maze and scarecrow field. $30 ($35 at the gate). All guests two and older, adults included, must have a ticket. Reserve tickets at nationalzoo.si.edu.

Trick-or-Treat at Mount Vernon On Saturday, Oct. 29 and Monday, Oct. 31, 3:30 to 6:30 p.m., participate in a scavenger hunt, take a wagon ride on the 12-acre field, and create a boo-tiful Halloween craft on this unforgettable evening. See wool carding, spinning, and fish net making in the historic area before greeting “Martha Washington” on the piazza of the Mansion. In order to burn off all the extra excite-

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DAR Museum Family Events On Saturday, Oct. 15, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., a crime will be committed at the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Museum. Use expert sleuthing skills to solve it. On Nov. 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., use stamps to make designs. Fabric from early America was printed using roller and block printing. Try out both these techniques. Find out about the plants animals and minerals used to make the dyes. Daughters of the American Revolution Headquarters is at 1776 D St. NW. 202628-1776. dar.org.

Disney On Ice Disney Pixar’s “Finding Dory” makes a splash as Disney On Ice presents “Follow Your Heart.” The actionpacked adventure brings Disney Pixar’s Inside Out to the icy stage for the first time, together with other beloved Disney characters. At the EagleBank Arena from Oct. 19 to 23. Tickets start at $20. Call 800-745-3000 or visit ticketmaster.com.

Hansel and Gretel Humperdink’s children’s opera is full of magic, music and dazzling special effects. The puppets, lights, music and effects, are all operated by Christopher Piper, who also performs all the live vocal characterizations. The production has long been a favorite of children and their parents. On stage at Glen Echo, Oct. 13

Family Dances On Sundays, Oct. 9, and Nov. 13, 3 to 5 p.m., the Folklore Society of Greater Washington hosts an afternoon dancing with children to live music and called dances. Bring the entire family, neighbors. Birthday parties and scout troops are welcome. Good for all ages. Admission is $5 for ages 4 and older. Glen Echo Park is at 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD. 301-6342222. glenechopark.org.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Dr. Seuss Musical Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on the National Theatre stage, Dec. 13 to Dec. 31. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” The Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Whos, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit. thenationaldc.org. Have an item for the Kids and Family Notebook? Email bulletinboard@hillrag.com.

For the 2016-2017 school year Bridges PCS will be in our new location:

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Crossword Author: Myles Mellor • www.themecrosswords.com • www.mylesmellorconcepts.com

“Good Catch!” by Myles Mellor and Sally York Across:

1. Maui greeting 6. Motherless calf 11. Vacillate 14. Engine purr 18. Holders 19. Torment 20. Snarls up 22. Dark 23. T-shirt slogans, perhaps 26. Contagious 28. Siberian city 29. Worked the soil 30. Drink daintily 32. Respectful greeting 33. Jacques or Jean 34. Show of hands, maybe 35. The dress is everything for this 36. “King ___” movie 39. Native American 40. Too soon? 41. Monies owed 45. Passion 46. ___ George 47. Alkaline liquid 48. Position 51. Load from a lode 52. Driver’s license info 53. Cease to live 54. La Scala offering 56. Plaintiff 57. Get an Uber perhaps 62. Err oarsomely? 64. Power interruption 65. Guy’s date 66. Medical advice, often 67. “The Rocket” 69. Comprised 70. Nonsense! 73. Ireland’s national emblem 74. Crone 75. Dub again 76. Going viral, e.g. 80. See stars, perhaps 84. Ceremonial observance 85. Circular 86. Victorian, for one 87. Botheration 88. Play for a sap 89. Food scrap 90. Steinful

91. Wahoo fish 94. Lobster coral 95. Inner layer of the skin 98. Yellowish-brown 100. Itinerary word 101. Mister’s lady 102. End of a Hemingway title 105. Dress 106. Time zone 107. Baggage porter 109. Palindrome in poetry 110. Hurting 112. Big book 116. Odds-and-ends category 118. Get a glimpse of 121. Forelimb bone 122. Disfigure 124. Red-faced feeling 125. Letters 126. Gather 127. Leafy drink 128. Concise 129. Defeats

Down:

1. Chevron competitor 2. Rich soil 3. Sides 4. “Shucks!” 5. Finely pulverized lava 6. Benin, once 7. Meanie 8. Provoke 9. Social connections 10. It’s unpleasant to look at 11. Start of a Thanksgiving prayer 12. Rainbow shape 13. Perceive 14. Bury 15. ‘Just ___!’ 16. Link 17. Joule fraction 21. Marquee-name entertainer 24. Shot 25. Window feature 27. Oaf 31. Layer 33. Gist 34. Check casher 36. Microprocessor type 37. Neck of the woods

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 38. Actual wording 40. Neglect 42. Stock exchange 43. Compact 44. Macedonian’s neighbor 48. Fly 49. Evil soldier in “The Lord of the Rings” 50. “Tush!” 53. Pad 54. Perennial plants of the Andes 55. Buddy 56. Panoramas 58. Drive 59. Skeptical grunt

60. Had dinner 61. Skedaddled 63. Oven emanation 65. Muzzle 67. Patio furniture 68. Second of two 69. Baton 70. Second in a series 71. Post-apartheid org. 72. ___-di-dah 74. Garden digger 75. More bloody, so to speak 76. Dirt 77. Wedding vow 78. Eur. country

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79. England time 80. Will Smith, e.g. 81. Wrong 82. Quality 83. Troubles 90. Side by side 91. Supervise 92. Japanese-American 93. Grass type 96. Zany 97. Playfully roguish 98. Dating service datum 99. Artist Chagall 103. Term of address 104. Impact sound 107. Lung problem 108. Lava maker 110. Mark 111. Current measures 112. Where McDonald wants you to drive 113. Mayberry sot 114. Fourth-largest U.S. state in area, abbr. 115. Immature amphibians 116. Mix breed dog 117. Prevaricate 119. English article 120. Org. that produces the Congressional Record 123. Bell or Kettle

Eagle PCs Founder Cassandra Pinkney Champion of Early Childhood Education article & photo by Andrew Lightman

assandra Pinkney, educator and founder of the Eagle Academy Public Charter School, passed away on Friday, Sept. 30 at age 68 of unexpected complications from surgery. Pinkney, a native Washingtonian, was well known champion of early childhood education. She had a thirtyyear career in public and public charter schools in DC and Prince George’s County. “Cassandra represented the best among our city’s and nation’s educators and school leaders,” said Stefan Huh, director of the Charter Schools Program in Office of Innovation and Improvement at the US Department of Education. “She created a community oriented school committed to eradicating the inequities in our society, by providing all children, regardless of background or ability, access to a quality public education and a better future,” said Huh.

A CoMMiTTED PuBliC EDuCAToR

Pinkney began her career in the Prince George’s County Public School System as an educational aide in the 1980s. While working there, she earned an undergraduate degree

in Memoriam 1990s, Pinkney joined the DC Public Schools (DCPS) eventually becoming its Coordinator for Early Childhood Special Education Services. At DCPS, Pinkney made it her mission to make sure that young children with special needs in the District received the best possible attention and education. She fought for timely assessments and support services. However, after several years of working within the existing system, she grew frustrated with its failure to provide these students an adequate education.

FouNDiNg EAglE PCs

In a partnership with Dr. Joe Smith, an educational researcher, Pinkney founded the Eagle Academy Public Charter School in 2003. Since then, the organization has grown to two campuses serving over 900 students from pre-K through third grade. It is known for its rich academics and commitment to all students - no matter their circumstances, temperament or needs. At the Congress Heights campus, for example, Pinkney insisted on building a swimming pool, because she knew that African-American children drown a three times the rate of their white peers. “Ms. Pinkney had a passion for creating educational environments in which young children thrive,” Smith said. “The quality and power of her educational vision is reflected in the success of her schools and her students and in the five architectural awards for excellence in design that her Ward 8 school received. Ms. Pinkney was a true leader in innovative, child-centered education.” Pinkney “worked tirelessly to ensure that all students received a high-quality education and essential resources for emotional and personal growth,” observed At-Large Councilmember David Grosso (I), chair of the Council’s Committee on Education.

wiDEly MouRNED

from Howard University and a master’s degree in “Early Childhood, Special Education and Human Development” from George Washington University. With her degrees in hand, Pinkney joined Howard University Hospital. There, she ran educational advocacy seminars and parenting classes for young mothers and fathers. She also worked with infants withdrawing from congenital drug addiction. Later, she spent ten years at a local non-profit working with adjudicated and non-adjudicated youth. Returning to Howard University Hospital, she joined a joint study with Johns Hopkins University on the impact of asthma on mothers, infants and young children. Following the conclusion of the study in the early

Many mourned Pinkney’s sudden passing. Dr. Kerry Lewis, chair of the Board of Eagle Academy spoke for the schools. “Ms. Pinkney’s unwavering passion and commitment was to provide a safe and nurturing environment where all children could learn, thrive and grow,” said Lewis. “She was an education visionary whose leadership, dedication and compassion will continue to be the foundation for Eagle Academy and her legacy will live in the thousands of students she taught, and the many more who will attend Eagle in the years to come.” Trayon White, the Democratic Nominee for Ward 8’s council seat, spoke of the impact of her death on east of the river communities, “Ms. Pinkney was a phenomenal Queen, who was really about the children of DC.” Her leadership of Eagle Academy was one of the many ways in which she showed her love. “We were looking forward to working together to feed families in Ward 8 this November,” said White. “As a result of her (Pinkney’s) efforts, Eagle Academy is an incredible school that will be her lasting gift to this city,” said Grosso. “I can’t think of a better example of a school that represents the ideals of public education, and Eagle is a reflection of Cassandra’s beautiful spirit,” said Huh.