Mundo Verde offers an exciting new option for quality, tuition-free education with hands on project-based learning. Opening in August with preschool through Kindergarten (growing to 8th grade), Mundo Verde is the only school in the District to offer a focus on environmental sustainability and bilingual (English/Spanish) education.
EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | MARCH 2011 | CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 08 ............Go See Do 10 ............East of the River Calendar 16 ............The Bulletin Board 20 ............A New Approach for D.C.’s Women Offenders by Alice Ollstein
22 ............Economic Development... • by Kwame Boadi and Ed Lazere 24 ............Walmart: East of the River • by Steve Lilienthal 26 ............MOM Van Brings Prenatal Care... • by Alice Ollstein 28 ............Letter from Yvette Alaxander 29 ............The Man From Anacostia • by Charles Wilson
EAST WASHINGTON LIFE 30 ............Anacostia: Mind, Body, Spirit • by Sam Tyler 32 ............Brian Mitchell Awaits NFL HOF... • by John Muller
26 46
34 ............William Borum • by Nikki Peele 36 ............Critical Exposure • by Tony Cotton 38 ............SLAM Wins at Sundance • by John Muller 38 ............Morgan Family Fish Fry • by Nikki Peele 39 ............Dr. Michangelo Scruggs...• by B. Michelle Harris McQureerir
KIDS & FAMILY 40 ............Kids and Family Notebook • by Kathleen Donner 46 ............Mundo Verde: A Green and Bilingual School • by L. Denise Jackson
47 ............Chess Challenge DC • by Jamaal Abdul-Alim
HOMES & GARDENS 19 ............Changing Hands • compiled by Don Denton
30
48 ............The Classifieds 50 ............The Nose • by Anonymous
ON THE COVER: Untitled, Oil on canvas, 40”x40”.
Crenshaw is a self-taught artist who resides in the Washington metro area. Private collection.
ALL OF US WILL LEARN Join the KIPP DC family! KIPP DC is now enrolling Pre-School through 11th grade! Apply online at www.kippdc.org today! KIPP DC schools are tuition-free, public schools open to all students living in Washington. At KIPP DC, we approach education differently. We have an extended school day and year, Saturday enrichment programs, and teachers who are available by cell phone to answer questions after school. We offer rigorous, college-preparatory instruction and believe that all of our students will attend and graduate college. We have been DC’s highest performing network of charters schools since we started in 2001 and together with our students and their families, we are proving the possible in public education.
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 5
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| MARCH 2011
PUBLISHER: JEAN-KEITH FAGON • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2010 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.
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Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc.
12th Annual Business Meeting & Family Community Conference This Year’s Theme:
“Strengthening Community Dialogue As One City” @ A. Kiger Savoy Elementary; 2400 Shannon Place, SE WDC 20020 Directly across the street from The Anacostia Metro Station
April 9, 2011 9 am – 4 pm FREE ADMISSION Invited Guests: Mayor Vincent Gray (confirmed); City Council Chairman Kwame Brown; Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry
• ELECTION OF 2011 FSFSC BOARD OFFICERS • INFORMATIVE WORK SHOPS WITH CEU CREDITS • MOON BOUNCE & CLOWNS • FREE CHILDCARE • WII & PS3 TOURNAMENTS • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT • MOBILE UNITS • HEALTH VENDORS • FREE FOOD
For More Information Contact: Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. 2041 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, SE Suite 304 Washington, DC 20020 • Phone 202-899-1425 Fax 202-889-2213 • www.fsfsc.org CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 7
GO.SEE.DO. Madama Butterfly The innocent Butterfly gives her heart, loses her honor, and surrenders her child. This is a sacrifice she cannot survive. One of the world’s most beloved operas, the innocent Butterfly catches the eye of a caddish, young American Naval officer, who makes her his temporary “wife.” When his time in Japan is over, he abandons her. Dishonored, Butterfly is bereft. For more than a century, audiences have been thrilled by Puccini’s haunting, poignant music and touched by the lovely Butterfly, who gives up everything for love. At the Kennedy Center through March 17. dc-opera.org Courtesy of San Francisco Opera.
On the Forefront: What’s New in the Solar System? Every spring, the National Air and Space Museum presents their Exploring Space Lectures. On Mar. 24 Dean Pesnell will speak on the Solar Dynamics Observatory and its amazing new imagery of the Sun; April 7: Alfred McEwen will speak on HiRISE and show the latest high resolution imagery of Mars; May 12: Sean Solomon will present the latest results and imagery from MESSENGER, which will have become the first spacecraft to orbit Mercury only a few weeks before. June 9: Carle Pieters will speak about Dawn just a few weeks before its arrival at Asteroid Vesta. The evenings begin with a film at 6:30 p.m., “Meet the Lecturer” at 7:30 p.m., lecture at 8:00 p.m. and telescope viewing (weather permitting) at 9:15 p.m. Order free tickets online at nasm.si.edu. Courtesy of NASA
DC United Season Opens March 19 at RFK DC United returns to action this month in preparation for the 2011 season. The team trains in Florida, California and South Carolina before hosting the Columbus Crew in their season opener at RFK Stadium on March 19 at 7:30 P.M. United has a new head coach in former player Ben Olsen and recently unveiled a red-hot alternate jersey for the upcoming season. Tickets are $23-$52. Group rates available. 202-587-5000. dcunited.com 17-year old midfielder Andy Najar was named the 2010 MLS Rookie of the Year. Photo: Courtesy of D.C. United.
Garment District Temporium presents Music, Art and Fashion DC’s largest-ever pop up art and retail installation, the Garment District Temporium features remarkable artists, fashion designers, and musicians in a 10,000 square foot space at Seventh St. and New York Ave. NW. Fashion and accessories for men, women and children, ranging from dresses, scarves, purses, and necklaces, to T-shirts, cuff links, ties, and even onesies for babies are showcased in The Boutique. Artists’ prints, oil paintings, photography, sculpture and neon art are for sale in The Gallery. Free live musical performances and fashion shows are in The Lounge and sewing classes are offered in The Sewing Room. 1005 Seventh St. NW. Open through March 20, Wednesday-Friday, 5:00-9:00 p.m.; Saturday, noon-9 p.m.; Sunday, noon-6:00 p.m. 202-393-1982. dcgarmentdistrict.com Garment District Temporium Shoppers
Johnny’s Half Shell: Saturday Night at the Movies Award-winning Johnny’s Half Shell, located at 400 North Capitol Street, NW, is reaching out to the neighborhood with a 10% discount on Friday and Saturday evenings. When Congress is out of session, they offer the neighborhood discount every night. Just have ID with zip code 20001, 20002, 20003 or 20024. Once a month, Johnny’s shows a movie on a Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. March’s movie is “The Big Night” on the 26th. 202-737-0400. johnnyshalfshell.net
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CALENDAR SAINT PATRICK’S CELEBRATIONS Old Town Alexandria Saint Patrick’s Day Parade. Saturday, Mar. 5, noon. saintpatricksdayparade.com/alexandria_ va. 703-237-2199. ballyshaners.org 2011 Shamrock Fest. Saturday, Mar. 12 (rain or shine). Gates open at noon. RFK Stadium. This is an all-ages event. 50 bands, 11 stages, Irish pub games, children’s rides, food vendors, strolling jugglers and clowns, face painting. $24.99 and up. shamrockfest.com DC’s St. Patricks Day Parade. The 2011 Saint Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at noon on Sunday, Mar. 13 on Constitution Ave. between Seventh St. and 17th St. NW. The colorful three-hour procession of floats, marching bands, and drill teams will also feature antique bicycles, cars, fire trucks, and Irish wolfhounds. Students from the area’s Irish schools of dance, always favorites with the crowd, will receive special recognition this year as the parade marshals are all dance school founders. Grandstand seats are $15. 202-670-0317. dcstpatsparade.com St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at National Geographic. Thursday, Mar. 17, 7:30 PM. One of the true legends of Irish traditional music, De Danann celebrates St. Patrick’s Day by making its first ever National Geographic live appearance. Featuring founding members Alec Finn and Johnny “Ringo” McDonagh, with Eleanor Shanley on vocals, and The Culkin School Irish Dancers. $30. ngs.org
FESTIVALS AND SPECIAL EVENTS Washington Independent Film Festival. Mar. 3-13. The Washington DC Independent Film Festival is an award winning annual film festival showcasing independent films from around the world; offering a Music Festival, Master Classes, Seminars & Workshops conducted by industry professionals; providing cultivation and opportunity to the DC community. DCIFF also presents the “Independent Film Summit on the Hill” which brings together filmmakers and policymakers to discuss the state of the industry. dciff.org Edward Albee Festival at Arena. Mar. 7-Apr. 24. In addition to Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and At Home at the Zoo, Albee enthusiasts can experience a never-beforeattempted feat: a festival of 30 events, featuring staged readings of all the plays of this master playwright. During the festival, the entire canon of our nation’s greatest living playwright will be featured. Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202-554-9066. arenastage.org Travel and Adventure Show. Mar. 12 and 13 at Washington Convention Center. Attendees will explore hands-on activities, attend engaging seminars, and win incredible giveaways, all while perusing through an assortment of enticing destination exhibits. $15. Children 16 and under, free. Discount tickets online, $9 with promo code: DCPR. adventureexpo.com/washingtondc.
Ben Skinner: Try A Little Tenderness As Painful As It Seems. Through Apr. 8. Ben Skinner is an emerging Canadian contemporary artist. This is his first solo exhibition. His understanding of composition and space paired with a keen sense of humor results in works that are compelling and fresh. The artist’s work is heavily text-based and ranges from installations to lighting to work that hangs on walls. Curated by The Jealous Curator. Honfleur Gallery, 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-536-8994. honfleurgallery.com 10 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
| MARCH 2011
Environmental Film Festival. March 15-27 at various venues around town. 150 documentary, narrative, animated, archival, experimental and children’s films. 202-342-2564. envirofilmfest.org GWUL Whitney M. Young, Jr. Memorial Gala. Mar. 16, 6:30 PM, at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel, 2660 Woodley Rd. NW. This year’s platform introduces the idea of celebrating Washington, DC’s diverse population, as a united community with the theme, “YOU, ME, WE….DC!” A silent auction will be held from 5:30-7:30 PM to benefit Greater Washington Urban League programs and initiatives and the reception for the evening will be held from 5:30-6:30 PM. Surprise celebrity guests will be in attendance as well.
Don’t Become a Victim of Fraud!! REPORT QUESTIONABLE MEDICARE AND MEDICAID CHARGES AND PRACTICES Has this happened to you or someone you know? • • •
• •
Billed for products or services not received? Double billed for services or products received? Offered free services, equipment, or supplies in exchange for your Medicare or Medicaid number? Offered money in exchange for your Medicare or Medicaid number? Used your personal information – Identity Theft?
Report fraud, waste, and abuse Call the Senior Medicare Patrol District of Columbia Hotline 202-434-2099 (Se Habla Español) Legal Counsel for the Elderly
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Free Gift With Ad CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 11
CALENDAR their art to support the Anacostia Watershed Society at the Eastern Market North Hall. anacostiaws.org Spring Craft Weekend. Mar. 24-27. Arts and crafts and related activities presented by the James Renwick Alliance. 301-9073888. jra.org National Cherry Blossom Festival. Mar. 26Apr. 10. Festival has many events including fireworks, parade, Japanese street festival, cultural performances and, of course, the famous blossoms. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom. Expected to be Mar. 29-Apr. 3. National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks. Apr. 2, 8:30-9:00 PM. Waterfront Park, 600 Water St. SW. nationalcherryblossomfestival.org
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD An Evening of Kool Jazz. Saturday, Mar. 12, 8:00-10:00 PM. Smiley Dew Entertainment presents “An Evening of Kool Jazz” featuring the harmonic sounds of Avon Dews and his band. For tickets, call 202-562-4556. Advance tickets, $20; at the door, $25. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org
Photo by Andrew Lightman
Congresswomen Norton’s Government-to-go in Your Neighborhood. Tuesday, Mar. 22, 10:00 AM-noon, Philip T. Johnson Senior Center, 3440 Minnesota Ave. SE. Get answers and information on federal programs and policy such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid and other federal benefits. 202-225-8050. norton.house.gov
Contact GWUL for ticket information. 202265-8200. gwul.org Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Expo: Leading the Way to Business Success. Mar. 16, 10:30 AM-7:00 PM. Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Pl. NW. 202-728-0352. gwhcc.org The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Concert. Friday, Mar. 18, 8:00 PM; Saturday, Mar. 19, 8:00 PM and Sunday, Mar. 20, 3:00 PM. Their 30th anniversary season of shows conrinues with an all-male production of the musical THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS. Lisner Auditorium, George Washington University, 730 21st St. NW. Buy tickets online at GMCW.org, by calling 202-293-1548 or at the
12 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
door on the day of the show. “Choosing to Participate” at the Historical Society of Washington, DC. Through June 17. Facing History and Ourselves, an international educational nonprofit, has brought its nationally acclaimed multimedia exhibit, Choosing to Participate, to the nation’s capital. The exhibition examines the impact and history of bigotry and injustice, and inspires conversation about the choices we can make every day to foster civic engagement, tolerance and mutual understanding in our communities. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St. NW. 202-383-1800. historydc.org Artists for the Anacostia. Wednesday, Mar. 23, 6:00-10:00 PM. Local artists showcase
| MARCH 2011
“Cartograph” at Vivid Solutions. Through Apr. 4. This is the first Washington, DC exhibition for North Carolina artist Gerard Lange. The exhibition is a combination of digital prints of collaged artists journals, 2” x 3” artists trading cards and a large mixed media map featuring the eastern coastal regional of North Carolina. The Gallery at Vivid Solutions, 2208 Martin Luther King Ave. SE. 202-3658392. vividsolutionsdc.com Big Chair Breakfast Bunch. Saturday, Mar. 12, 10:00 AM-noon. Big Chair Coffee n’ Grill (upstairs). All are welcome to attend and discuss what’s happening East of the River. 2122 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. 202-525-4287. Rhythm Café: Women in Jazz. Sunday, Mar. 13, 2:00 PM. Karine Chapdelaine, a recent graduate of Howard University and an award winning member of the Howard University Jazz Ensemble, will present a lecture and musical performance on popular Brazilian singer Simone Bittencourt. Register by calling 202-633-4866. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Levine School of Music: Community Sing. Tuesday, Mar.15, 7:00 PM. The Levine School of Music presents an uplifting Community Sing, led by Levine Artist-in-Residence Dr. Ysaye Maria Barnwell of Sweet Honey in the Rock. $5 at the door. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org or levineschool.org/communitysing Historic Lakeland Lecture. Tuesday, Mar. 15, 10:30 AM. Did you know that Lakeland, a
historic African American community, is one of several small,African American communities along the U.S. Route 1 corridor between Washington, D.C., and Laurel, Maryland? Community historian Violetta Sharps-Jones, vicechair for the Lakeland Community Heritage Project, will tell the story of how Lakeland was established and flourished in a segregated society and developed its own institutions and traditions, including the area’s only high school for African Americans, built in 1928. A book signing on Lakeland’s history will follow. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Welcome the Celestial Spring. Mar. 18-19, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM. Two days of crafts, programs, and walks to look at why seasons change. Build a solar calendar, look at the sun safely, and take a walk with a ranger to see the way spring has begun through birds, trees, and all those lawn weeds. No fee for the programs, and it starts Friday and Saturday with a Dawn Chorus of birdsong at 8:00 in the morning. Call the park at 202-426-6905 for a full schedule. Free. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. 202-426-6905. nps.gov/keaq The Miss DC International and Miss Teen DC International Pageant 2011. Saturday, Mar. 19, 6:00-8:00 PM. The Miss DC International and Miss Teen DC International Pageant 2011 is a Pageant Competition for representatives in the District of Columbia. Two special young ladies will have the opportunity to embark on a year of public service promoting the platform of her choice across the nation’s capital, the nation, and the world. $25. THEARC Theater, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org . Growing up Gullah Discussion. Sunday, Mar. 20, 2:00 PM. Join videographer Terence L. Johnson in a discussion about the making of the film Growing up Gullah. Johnson explores the challenges of making a film about the Gullah/Geechee traditions, based on the testimonies of 12 D.C. area residents. Johnson’s documentary will also showcase the various folkways and mores that characterize the islands along the South Carolina coast. Free. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Environmental Film Festival at THEARC. Where The Whales Sing, Mar. 22, 10:30 AM and A Community of Gardeners, Mar. 25, 4:00 PM. The Environmental Film Festival presents two unique “World Premiere” movies that examine the role of gardening and nature in the development of local and national communities. Showings are free and will include post-discussions after the screenings. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-8895901. thearcdc.org . The African Presence in Candomblé Discussion. Wednesday, Mar. 23, 7:00 PM. Michael Atwood Mason, director of exhibitions at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and scholar of African-based religious traditions in the Americas, discusses the core symbols, beliefs, and practices of Brazilian Candomblé, with a special focus on the global growth of this and other African-based religious traditions. Free. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820.
anacostia.si.edu Dance Theatre of Harlem Ensemble: Lecture Demonstration. Thursday, Mar. 24, 4:00-5:00 PM. The Dance Theatre of Harlem’s lecture demonstration is an informal 60 minute demonstration of the art of classical ballet. The presentation is a virtual performance. It begins with Ensemble Director Keith Saunders narrating the process of making a dancer: specific exercises are demonstrated, and the reasons for them explained. The dancers begin at the barre and end with partnering techniques and lifts. Similarities between ballet dancers and professional athletes are discussed. Narration is interspersed with excerpts performed by the dancers from an eclectic repertoire. Free but reserve tickets online-limited availability. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org The Rhythms and Movements of Capoeira. Saturday, Mar. 26, 2:00 PM. Roda Movements, a Washington area dance studio, presents the history and influences of Capoeira, an Africanbased art form that combines martial arts, dance, and music and that gave rise to break dancing. Audience participation and demonstrations complete the program. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Houses of Worship: A Forum for Creative Expression. Tuesday, Mar. 29, 7:00 PM. This panel discussion will explore the central role of houses of worship in promoting and sustaining creative expression. The program will include discussion of the breadth of ministries in music, dance, videography, and other areas within large as well as small congregations and the impact of this work in the community. This forum is part of the “Call and Response: Community and Creativity Project,” which is documenting creative expression in Washington, D.C.’s Wards 7 and 8. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Dance Workshop. Wednesday, Mar. 30, 10:30 AM and Thursday, Apr. 7, 10:30 AM. Audience members will learn dance movements inspired by the cultures of the Gullah/Geechee, Brazil, and Sierra Leone. This workshop is led by Carol Foster, the executive/artistic director and founder of the DC Youth Ensemble. School groups welcome. Reservations required. Call 202-633-4844. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Houses of Worship in Ward 8 Community Forum. Tuesday, Apr. 5. 7:00 PM. This forum continues the dialogue on the role of houses of worship in communities east of the Anacostia River. A report summarizing the findings of a survey and documentation project of 42 houses of worship in the Ward 8 com-
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 13
CALENDAR munity will be followed by a panel discussion on current issues as seen from the perspective of religious leaders. This forum is part of the museum’s ongoing effort to document the role of faith-based institutions in Southeast Washington and continues the museum’s commitment to examine American religious history, experience, and expressions. The on-going documentation will provide an understanding of the challenges, issues, and successes faced by communities of faith in the present-day social, political, and economic climate. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu
SW. 207-660-5845. runwashington.com SunTrust National Marathon. Saturday, Mar. 26, 7:00 AM–1:00 PM. Start/finish: RFK Stadium’s Lot 3. nationalmarathon.com
Anacostia Watershed Earth Day. Apr. 9, 8:30 AM-1:00 PM. A day to tackle invasive vines, dead plants from previous seasons. and of course, trash in the wetlands of the Anacostia River. Join others and bring work gloves, rakes, and make a difference while you enjoy the outdoors. Wear long sleeves and pants and sturdy shoes. You will get muddy. Meet at the maintenance yard. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. 202-426-6905. nps.gov/keaq
Roller Skating at Anacostia Park. Skate any time. This is a covered, outdoor skating pavilion. Free. From Penn. Ave., just before the bridge, south on Fairlawn Ave. and right onto Nicholson and then into the park. 202-472-3873.
Separate and Unequaled: Black Baseball in the District of Columbia. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Exhibition about segregated baseball from from Reconstruction to the second half of the 20th century. Anacostia Community Museum. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202633-4820. anacostia.si.edu SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Washington Wizards Basketball. Mar. 8, 12, 14, 20, 30 and Apr. 1 at the Verizon Center. nba.com/wizards Washington Capitals Ice Hockey. Mar. 9, 11, 13, 25. 29, 31 and Apr. 2 at the Verizon Center. Buy and sell tickets on teamexchange. ticketmaster.com. Visit the Washington Capitals website at capitals.nhl.com. St. Patrick’s Day 8K. Sunday, Mar. 13, 9:00 AM. Race activities take place on or around Freedom Plaza (on Pennsylvania Ave. between 13th and 14th sts. NW). Race day registration begins at 7:00 AM or register online at runwashington.com. $35. 301-871-0400. Full Moon Hikes at the National Arboretum. March 17, 18, 19, 8:00-10:00 PM. This is a four-mile-long, mildly strenuous hike through moonlit gardens, meadows and woods. Your guide will share several points of special interest and seasonal highlights. The two-hour walk over hilly and uneven terrain is more of a brisk hike than a tour so wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather. Not recommended for children under 16. No pets. $22. Registration required at usna.usda.gov or 202-245-4521. Race for Justice 5K. Saturday, Mar 19, 8:00 AM. George Washington University Law School’s Equal Justice Foundation, a studentled group which promotes public interest work by law students and graduates. Proceeds of the race will fund summer stipends for students pursuing volunteer public interest work during the summer. $25 registration includes a t-shirt. Prizes for top finishers! Race is around Hains Point, East Potomac Park, 1090 Ohio Dr.
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Marine Corps Marathon Registration. Register online at marinemarathon.com. $90. Act quickly because registration is almost closed. Marathon is Sunday, Oct. 30. Washington Nationals Home Opener. The Nats open the 2011 season at home against the Atlanta Braves Mar. 31, 1:05 PM at National Park. washington.nationals.mlb.com
National’s Fans Home Opener Sweepstakes. Entry period ends, 2:00 PM, Mar. 25. Enter online to see the Washington Nationals take on the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park for the 2011 Home Opener! One fan will receive four PNC Diamond Club tickets for winner and guests to attend the Washington Nationals home opener vs. the Atlanta Braves on Thursday, Mar. 31 at Nationals Park. Prize includes select food and non-alcoholic-beverages. washington.nationals.mlb.com Spring Public National’s Ballpark Tours. Tuesday-Saturday (non-game days), 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. On day of night-time home games, tours at 10:30 AM. Take the Nationals Park Ballpark Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at Nationals Park. Over the course of an hour and fifteen minutes you will visit the PNC Diamond Club, the Lexus Presidents Club, the Stars & Stripes Club, luxury suites, the Shirley Povich Media Center, Nationals dugout and Nationals clubhouse. Throw a pitch in the Nationals bullpen. $12-$15. All proceeds from Nationals Park Tours will be donated to the Nationals Dream Foundation. Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Open through Mid March (depending on the weather). Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM9:00 PM. View magnificent works of sculpture while skating in the open air and enjoying music from the state-of-the-art sound system. $7 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under, students with ID and seniors 50 and over. Skate rental is $3. Seventh St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-289-3361. nga.gov/ginfo/skating Fort Dupont Ice Arena Public Skating Spring Schedule. Fridays, noon-1:50 PM; Saturdays, 11:15 AM-12:15 PM; Sundays, 1:00 PM-2:20 PM. $5, adults. $4, children and seniors. Skate rental, $3. 3779 Ely Place, SE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org Deanwood Aquatic Center Indoor Pool. MonFri 6:30 AM-8:00 PM; Sat-Sun, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Free for DC residents. Have ID. 1350 49th St. NE. 202-671-3078. dpr.dc.gov Ferebee-Hope Aquatic Center Indoor Pool. Mon-Fri, 3:00-8:00 PM. Closed Saturday and Sunday. Free for DC residents. Have ID. 3999
| MARCH 2011
Eighth St. SE. 202-645-3916. dpr.dc.gov African Dance Class. Every Monday, 7:15-8:30 PM. For adults. No prior experience necessary. Walk-ins welcome. THEARC. $10. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org Yoga Class. Every Saturday, 10:00-11:15 AM. For adults. No prior experience necessary. Walk-ins welcome. THEARC. $10. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org Southeast Tennis and Learning Center (indoor courts). Open daily; Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Four indoor courts. Six outdoor courts. Summer hourly fees at $6 to $10 for adults. Kids 17 and under play for free. 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-645-6242. dpr. dc.gov/dpr Free public tennis courts in Wards 7 and 8. Fort Davis Community Center, 1400 41st St. SE; Hillcrest Recreation Center, 3100 Denver St. SE; Kenilworth-Parkside Recreation Center, 4300 Anacostia Ave. NE; Randle Highlands Tennis Courts, 31st St. and Pennsylvania Ave. SE; Anacostia Park, 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE; Bald Eagle Recreation Center, Martin Luther King, Jr Ave. and Joliet St. SW; Congress Heights Recreation Center, Alabama Ave. and Randle Pl.SE; Fort Stanton Community Center, 1812 Erie St. SE. All courts are open daily, dawn to dusk. Some are lighted for extended evening play. Courts are available on a firstcome, first-served basis for one-hour intervals; extended use of tennis courts requires a permit. Proper shoes and attire is required. 202-671-0314. www.dpr.dc.gov/dpr East Potomac Driving Range. Open daily except Christmas, 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Tuesdays open 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The East Potomac Driving Range features 50 covered and 50 uncovered stalls for year-round golf practice. $6 for 51 balls. East Potomac Golf Course, 972 Ohio Dr. SW. 202-554-7660. www.golfdc.com Langston Driving Range. Open every day except Christmas, sun-up to sun-down. In addition to the driving range, Langston has an 18 hole course, snack bar, pro shop and offers golf lessons. 45 balls, $4.75. 180 balls, $14.25. $2, golf club rental. 26th and Benning Rd. NE. 202-397-8638 www.golfdc.com
Anacostia Coordinating Council Meeting. Last Tuesday. Noon-2:00 PM. Anacostia Museum, 1901 Fort St. SE. For further details, contact Philip Pannell, 202-889-4900. Capitol View Civic Association Monthly Meeting. Third Monday of every month, 6:30 PM. Hughes Memorial United Methodist, 25 53rd St. NE. capitolviewcivicassoc.org Historical Anacostia Block Association. Second Thursday of every month. 7:00-9:00 PM. UPO-Anacostia Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. For further details, contact Charles Wilson, 202-834-0600. Anacostia High School School Improvement Team Meeting. Fourth Tuesday. 6:00 PM. Anacostia High School, 16th and R sts. SE. Deanwood Citizens Association General Body Meeting. Fourth Monday, except Aug. and Dec., 6:30 PM. First Baptist Church of Deanwood, 1008 45th St. NE Eastland Gardens Civic Association Meeting. Third Tuesday. 6:30-8:30 PM. Kenilworth Elementary School (auditorium), 1300 44th St. NE. Greg Rhett jrhett3009@aol.com or 202-388-1532. Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 6th District Citizens Advisory Council. Second Monday, except July and Aug. 7:00 PM. 6th District HQ, 100 42nd St. NE. ANC Meeting for 7-A. Third Tuesday. 7:30 PM. Benning-Stoddard Rec. Center, 100 Stoddard Pl. SE. 202-727-1000. 7A@anc.dc.gov. www. anc7a.org ANC Meeting for 7-B. Third Thursday. 7:00 PM. Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church, 3200 S St. SE (Branch Ave and S St. SE). 202-5843400. anc7b@pressroom.com. www.anc7b.us ANC Meeting for 7-C. Second Thursday. 7:00 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202398-5100. anc7c@verizon.net
CIVIC LIFE
ANC Meeting for 7-D. Second Tuesday. 6:30 PM. Sixth District Police Station, 100 42nd St. NE. 202-398-5258. 7D06@anc.dc.gov
Congresswoman Norton’s SE District Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. 2041 MLK Ave. SE, #238. 202-678-8900. norton.house.gov
ANC Meeting for 7-E. Second Tuesday. 7:008:30 PM. Jones Memorial Church, 4625 G St. SE. 202-582-6360. 7E@anc.dc.gov
Councilmember Alexander’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 10:00 AM6:00 PM. 2524 Penn. Ave. SE. 202-581-1560.
ANC Meeting for 8-A. First Tuesday. 7:00 PM. Anacostia UPO Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-889-6600. www.anc8adc.org
Councilmember Barry’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. 2100 MLK Ave, SE, #307. 202-698-2185.
ANC Meeting for 8-B. Third Tuesday. 7:00 PM. Seventh District Police Station Community Center, Alabama and McGee Sts. SE. 202-6101818. www.anc8b.org
Ward 7 Democrats Monthly Meeting. Fourth Saturday, noon-2:00 PM. Ward Memorial AME Church, 241 42nd St. NE. 202-584-8477 or info@ward7democrats. ward7democrats.org
ANC Meeting for 8-C. First Wednesday (June meeting is on the nineth because of the holiday). 6:30 PM. 2907 MLK Jr Ave. SE.
202-388-2244. ANC Meeting for 8-D. Fourth Thursday. 7:00 PM. Specialty Hospital of Washington, 4601 MLK Jr. Ave. SW. 202 561-0774 ANC Meeting for 8-E. Third Tuesday. 7:00 PM. SE Tennis and Learning Center, 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-5616616. 8e02@anc.dc.gov
OUT OF TOWN Montpelier Arts Center Jazz Series. Mar. 11, Ethel Ennis with Trio (sold out); Mar. 18, Lafayette Gilchrist. $20. 9652 Muirkirk Rd., Laurel, MD. 301377–7800. arts.pgparks.com Artomatic Takes Flight at Reagan National Airport. Through June 25. Artomatic Takes Flight is an unjuried art exhibition (70 artworks) for Artomatic artists that will be on display in the hallway connecting to Terminal A. Opening reception, Thursday, Mar. 10, 6:00-8:00 PM at DCA. French Film Festival. Mar. 24-27. Founded in 1993, the French Film Festival located in Richmond, VA is an American-led initiative to promote French language cinema and culture in the United States and create a tradition of Franco-American corporate and cultural partnerships. All screenings at the Byrd Theatre, 2908 West Cary St., Richmond, VA. 804-827-FILM (3456). frenchfilmfestival.us Pentagon Memorial. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. On two acres of land, 184 benches over pools of water, honoring those who died on Sept. 11. West side of the Pentagon, adjacent to route 27. Arlington, VA. 703-693-8935. pentagonmemorial.net $7 Sunday Homemade Breakfast. Second Sunday of every month, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM. Families welcome. Enjoy a homemade $7 breakfast in a historic Alexandria ballroom. They are located around the corner from Gadsby’s Tavern. American Legion Post 24, 400 Cameron St., Alexandria, VA. 703-6835564. valegionpost24.org Junkyard Saints Mardi Gras Party. Tuesday, Mar. 8, 7:30-8:30 PM, dance lesson; 8:30-11:00 PM, dancing. The Junkyard Saints is a DC/Baltimore based band performing its own brand of New Orleans-style party music, blending funk, swing, Latin, R & B, with a splash of zydeco to round out the mix. They have played at Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and Pier Six, the Fort Lauderdale Cajun Crawfish Festival, Bethlehem’s Musikfest, The FunkBox, and more. $15. Artisphere, 1101 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA. 703-8751100. artisphere.com ●
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BULLETIN BOARD Community Museum
Fort Dupont Community Garden. Photo by Park Ranger Wesley Gant
Obtain a Community Garden Permit at Fort Dupont The Fort Dupont Community Gardens are located at the corner of Fort Dupont and Fort Davis Drives. Applications for permits are being received now. There is no charge for the garden space but you must be able to attend a rules meeting on Tuesday, Mar. 22, 7:00 PM, at the Fort Dupont Activities Center on Fort Dupont Drive, near the concert stage. Contact the community gardens coordinator at 202-426-7723.
Following the lead of other National Park Service areas across the country, National Capital Parks East will be host an open house on March 16th and March 17th at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, from 5pm to 8:30pm. The event will provide the public an opportunity to interact with park staff and community partners, ask questions, and spark open dialogue. Guests will be encouraged to increase their understanding of NPS efforts to manage our natural, cultural, historical and recreational resources, with information on youth programs and employment opportunities available. “The open house is an opportunity for people to ask questions,” says Alexcy Romero, Superintendent of National Capital Parks – East. “We will be connecting our parks to our communities and our communities to our parks.”
5th Annual East of the River Community Development and the Juried Group Exhibition: 2011 Call Arts: Future Possibilities for the to Artists East of the River Communities
A volunteer removes cut lotus from the ponds at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens. Photo Courtesy of Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Help Clean-up Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens Saturday, Mar. 25, 9:00 AM-noon. Volunteers engage in a wide variety of activities including invasive plants removal, painting, lily pond restoration, trash removal (land based and river borne), planting, pruning, and other duties as assigned. These activities require the ability to kneel, squat, lift, and perform routine gardening and clean up functions over a period of three to four hours. Volunteers are required to wear clothing appropriate for the work at hand--long sleeved shirts, long pants, and no open toe shoes. 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. 202-4266905. nps.gov/kepa 16 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
| MARCH 2011
Honfleur Gallery and The Gallery at Vivid Solutions are pleased to announce the call for submissions for the 5th Annual East of the River Exhibition, highlighting the creative minds of Washington DC’s Wards 7 and 8. Artists living, working or with roots in the communities east of the Anacostia River may submit up to 20 images. This year’s exhibition will focus on the presentation of bodies of work from up to six selected artists, to be exhibited at the Honfleur Gallery and The Gallery at Vivid Solutions. Proposals for works in progress will be accepted. A $300 award per artist will be presented to each artist selected for exhibition, and in addition, an individual work selected as Best in Show will be announced during opening night reception. The galleries are offering an optional Portfolio Workshop for interested parties. Deadline for submission is Mar. 21. 202-5368994. honfleurgallery.com
Creation of an arts district in old Anacostia? Inclusion of an arts plan for the development of Barry Farm and Poplar Point? Creation of an arts avenue in SE? Panelists from local community organizations and citywide arts activists will discuss these ideas; a period for audience dialogue will follow. This forum is part of the “Call and Response: Community and Creativity Project”, which is documenting creative expression in DC’s Wards 7 and 8. Tuesday, Mar. 15. 7:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 633-4820. anacostia.si.edu
National Capital Parks East holds Open house at Anacostia
Goodwill of Greater Washington’s Free Construction Training
The Temple of Praise Employment Ministry Spring Job Fair On Mar. 19, 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, Mary Virginia Merrick Center, 4275 Fourth St. SE. All are welcome. Vendors rsvp to Chris Askew at 240-2811376.
Open to most of Ward 5, 7 and 8.
Trainees receive NCCER (National Center for Construction Education & Research) certification; first aid, CPR and OSHA 10 certification; green elective track in (can include Green Advantage or Smart Meter Installation); hands-on and classroom training with team projects; individualized job placement assistance and career coaching; private career fair and other employer networking events. Intake scheduled on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays promptly at 9:30 AM at Goodwill’s Headquarters, 2200 South Dakota Ave. NE. 202-715-2616 or greenpathwaydc@ dcgoodwill.org. dcgoodwill.org
Off-Peak Lane Closures for 11th Street Bridges Project The District Department of Transportation may close lanes during off-peak travel hours on the 11th St. bridges, related ramps, portions of the Southeast-Southwest Freeway, Interstate 295/DC 295 and local streets through Mar. 22 for 11th Street Bridge Project construction activities. These closures may include periodically closing up to two of the four lanes on either the inbound or outbound 11th Street Bridge and one lane on related ramps on weeknights and some Sunday evenings to deliver steel girders or perform other construction-related work. To implement this, workers will close one bridge lane at 8:00 PM and a second lane and one ramp lane beginning at 9:00 PM with all lanes reopening by 5:00 AM the next morning. In addition daily, from 9:30 AM to 5:00 AM the next morning, both lanes of N St. SE will be closed between 12th and 11th St. SE. A signed detour will be provided. 202-484-2330. ddot. dc.gov/11thStreetBridge
LIFT-DC Opens at THEARC to Provide Social Services to Ward 8 Local nonprofit LIFT-DC has begun operations at a new service center inside Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC) at 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. LIFT-DC will provide individualized, one-onone services to residents of surrounding neighborhoods. LIFT-DC will initially meet with clients on Wednesdays and Fridays. Staff and volunteers will work with individuals to provide help with employment and housing searches, public benefits enroll-
ment, locating affordable healthcare and childcare, and a variety of other social services. Services are free and there are no eligibility requirements. For more information and to make an appointment, call 202-889-5901 or email washingtondc@liftcommunities.org. liftcommunities.org
Environmental Cleanup Study at Benning Road Facility The District of Columbia Department of the Environment (DDOE) has entered into a Consent Decree with Pepco Energy Services Inc. (PES) and Potomac Electric Power Co. (Pepco), under which Pepco and PES have committed to launch an environmental investigation and cleanup study of Pepco’s Benning Road facility. Under the Consent Decree, filed in Federal District Court yesterday, Pepco will investigate the facility and adjacent portions of the Anacostia River to determine if historical Benning Road facility operations have contributed to contamination of the Anacostia River sediments and if so, what – if any –additional response actions should be taken. Pepco and PES are cooperating fully with DDOE and support the District’s efforts to protect the Anacostia River, a valuable resource for the District of Columbia and its residents. Pepco’s Benning Road facility is one of six publicly and privately owned sites along the Anacostia that DDOE has identified as potential sources of pollutants impacting the river. 202-2993338. ddoe.dc.gov
Ward 7 Residents Complete Collaborative Workshops Nineteen Ward 7 residents graduated after successfully completing “The Celebrity in You”and “Be Smart-Money Start” workshops offered by the East River Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc. “The Celebrity in You” is a parenting class workshop which consisted of 6 sessions (a total of 12 hours). Using the Common Sense Parenting Model, it is a spinoff of the ERFSC Powerful Families United program which engages DC parents to help them acquire and internalize skills needed to build and maintain a healthy family. The “Be Smart -- Money Smart” workshop is a financial literacy programs in which engages residents and encourage them to better manage their finances.
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS The East River Family Strengthening Collabroative continues to offer these free workshops. To find out more, call Artherelle West at 202-397-7300, ext. 121. erfsc.org
Streetcar System Recommendations Released The Committee of 100 on the Federal City has released a detailed assessment of the proposed 37-mile streetcar system for Washington, DC. The report, “Building a World-Class Streetcar System for a World-Class City,” analyzes the proposed routes and highlights seven recommendations to bring streetcars back to DC. Read the report online at committeeof100.net. 202-681-0225.
Traffic Lane Shifts on Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE The District Department of Transportation has shifted all traffic to the north side of Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE, between Minnesota Ave. and 55th St. to accommodate construction activities along the southern curb lane of the roadway. The traffic lane shift will remain in place through May 2011. During this time one traffic lane in each direction will remain open and curbside parking along this stretch will be restricted. Temporary signs will be in place to alert the traveling public in this area. dashboard.ddot.dc.gov
DC Department Unveils Newly Upgraded Maternity Mobile Unit The DC Department of Health (DOH) re-launched the newly upgraded and now operational DOH Maternity Mobile Unit van. The DOH MOM Van is part of DOH’s “I am a Healthy DC Mom” campaign that emphasizes the importance of early and continuous prenatal care. The campaign asks women to make three commitments--stay fit and eat right, commit to 40 weeks of prenatal care, and keep their babies safe and healthy. In addition to community outreach and education, the van also provides services such as pregnancy testing, laboratory assessments, basic physical and obstetrical examinations, risk assessment, counseling and complete obstetrical history to expectant mothers in Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8 who do not have access to 18 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
prenatal care. The van serves the wards with the highest infant mortality rates to help prevent unnecessary infant deaths through education and quality medical care. For more information or to find out when the DOH MOM Van will be in your area, visit doh.dc.gov or call 1-800-MOM-BABY.
Deals for Deeds The Deals for Deeds website brings you a deal and you do a good deed. A local company headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Deals for Deeds works with DC restaurants, spas, sporting and entertainment events to feature exclusive offers on products and services. A portion of the deal then goes to a non-profit. The hot, hot, hot H Street restaurants were featured in February with a 40% off deal. So when you buy a deal, a percentage of your money goes directly to a charitable organization. We all come together for a good cause and support local businesses at the same time. It’s a free and easy signup. dealsfordeeds.com
DPR Summer Employment Opportunities The District Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Summer Camp Office provides high quality recreational programming for youth of all ages that enhances the year-round opportunities available in the District. Summer staff is provided with engaging training, creative curriculum, scheduled trips, and a team of like-minded staff to meet the goals outlined in the program in a structured and supportive atmosphere. If you have questions about any position, contact the Human Resources Division at 202-673-7603 or dpr.summer@dc.gov.
2011 Larry Neal Writers’ Competition Guidelines The Larry Neal Writers’ Competition commemorates the artistic legacy and vision held by Larry Neal, the renowned author, academic and former Executive of the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (DCCAH). Cash prizes are awarded for artistic excellence to adults (ages 19 and up) in three categories: poetry, short story and dramatic writing, and to youth (ages 8-12) and teens (ages 13-18) in three
| MARCH 2011
categories: poetry, short story and essay. Applicants must be DC residents. The deadline to apply to the FY 2011 competition is Monday, Mar. 28, 2011 at 5:30 PM. 202-724-5613. dcarts.dc.gov
found at pciplan.com. 800-220-7898.
Guest Services Hiring Seasonal Staff
Re:Streets is a fundamental rethinking of American streets. Funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, Re:Streets will result in a manual for designing streets to accommodate people of all ages and abilities and will serve a wide range of purposes, including transportation, commerce, education, recreation, and the ecosystem. It’s worth a visit at restreets.org.
Guest Services Inc. in partnership with Department of Employment Services is hiring part-time seasonal staff for their food service locations on the National Mall. They are looking for outgoing, friendly, upbeat people to showcase the Washington, DC area. Applications are being accepted for cashiers, ice cream cart attendants, general utility and food attendants. Once the application is completed and submitted online, selective candidates will be called in for pre-screenings at a specific location. Apply online at guestservices. iapplicants.com/searchjobs
Serve DC Emergency Preparedness Training
Capitol Hill Group Ministry Free Tax Clinic
Streets Reconsidered: Inclusive Design for the Public Realm Website
Serve DC, The Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism, offers free classes that train volunteers on how to prepare, prevent and respond to any emergency--crime, terrorism, public health crises, natural and man-made disasters. In 95 percent of all emergencies, a victim or bystander provides the first immediate response on the scene. The program is free and open to anyone who lives or works in DC. Mar. 21-25, 6:00-9:00 PM at 441 Fourth St. NW, 11th floor conference room. Registration is required. 202-727-7927. serve.dc.gov
Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan Enrollment is Open The District of Columbia Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) reiterates the availability of the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) through the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The program provides affordable health insurance for District residents unable to purchase health coverage in the commercial marketplace because of a pre-existing medical condition. PCIP offers a much needed option for residents who face significant barriers to purchasing affordable health insurance in the commercial market. District residents can apply for the program, with coverage starting less than a month later. Information on the application process and monthly premium rates for DC can be
The Capitol Hill Group Ministry is sponsoring a free tax clinic for persons whose household income is under $58,000. This tax return assistance, which is free and confidential, is provided by volunteers. The service is available every Thursday evening from 6:30-9:00 PM through the tax season. The service will also be available on April 18, which this year is the final date for federal tax returns to be filed. For the most accurate return possible, please bring your 2009 federal and state tax returns, copy of real estate tax bills paid in 2010, copies of all W-2s, 1099 forms, proof of other income (including pensions and Social Security, received by you and your spouse) and Social Security numbers for you, your spouse, and any dependents.1500 D St. SE (NE corner of 15th and D, SE). They are also looking for more volunteers. If you have some experience with taxes and are interested in helping, contact Martha Huizenga at martha@ mhuizenga.com.
Giant Food Celebrates 75 Years of Quality, Value and Service Giant Food of Landover, MD celebrated the beginning of its 75th year in February. Seventy five years ago, N.M. Cohen and Sam Lehrman worked together to bring the first grocery store to DC at the corner of Georgia Ave. and Park Rd. NW. GiantFood.com ●
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. Neighborhood
Close Price
BR
FEE SIMPLE ANACOSTIA 2237 14TH ST SE 1339 T ST SE 1605 FAIRLAWN AVE SE
$232,000 $115,000 $65,000
3 3 3
$466,000 $465,000 $267,500
5 4 4
$199,900 $198,700 $155,000 $150,000 $92,500 $68,500 $65,000 $62,500 $40,000
4 3 4 4 3 3 3 2 2
$270,000 $250,000 $249,900 $249,500 $230,000 $180,000 $162,349 $139,700 $122,400 $88,000 $85,000 $83,000 $65,000 $62,000
4 3 3 6 3 7 2 3 4 3 3 3 3 3
$245,000 $126,000
2 2
$300,000 $150,000 $149,000
3 0 3
$215,000 $120,000 $48,000
4 2 2
$26,000
2
$97,485 $35,000 $23,500 $21,000
4 2 1 1
$58,000 $50,000 $47,000
3 3 2
$9,000
1
$40,000
1
$51,000
2
$45,900
2
CHILLUM 6400 2ND PL NW 37 LONGFELLOW ST NW 5519 KANSAS AVE NW
CONGRESS HEIGHTS 3506 7TH ST SE 111 BRANDYWINE PL SW 909 SAVANNAH ST SE 4138 2ND ST SW 802 XENIA ST SE 625 BRANDYWINE ST SE 814 XENIA ST SE 3861 HALLEY TER SE 622 SOUTHERN AVE SE
DEANWOOD 807 44TH ST NE 5401 EAST CAPITOL ST SE 410 57TH ST NE 255 57TH ST NE 34 46TH ST NE 4604 KANE PL NE 4506 EADS PL NE 218 63RD ST NE 312 63RD ST NE 60 53RD PL SE 807 52ND ST NE 515 59TH ST NE 4516 DIX ST NE 915 46TH ST NE
FORT DUPONT PARK 1731 41ST PL SE 4310 G ST SE
HILL CREST 2028 36TH ST SE 3305 ALABAMA AVE SE 3225 T ST SE
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 4943 A ST SE 4626 B ST SE 4703 BASS PL SE
CONDO BARRY FARMS 2640 WADE RD SE #23
CONGRESS HEIGHTS 750 BARNABY ST SE #202 3210 8TH ST SE #2 724 BRANDYWINE ST SE #103 10 HALLEY PL SE #10-202
DEANWOOD 46391/2 MINNESOTA AVE NE #4639 4234 EDSON PL NE #1 4208 BENNING RD NE #1
FORT DUPONT PARK 512 RIDGE RD SE #107
HILL CREST 1727 28TH ST SE #201
MARSHALL HEIGHTS 4732 BENNING RD SE #A-101
RANDLE HEIGHTS 2844 HARTFORD ST SE #303 ●
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 19
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Sondra Hunt and Chris Keels of CSOSA pose with various faith leaders from the DC community.
Helping Her Rebuild A New Approach for D.C.’s Women Offenders by Alice Ollstein
I
ndia Frazier was in and out of prison for nearly 20 years—initially for armed robbery, then for various infractions and parole violations. Now, three years since her release, she has a job with D.C.’s Department of Public Works, she is clean and sober, and she meets all her parole obligations. “I came home from jail with a list of goals and I just keep checking them off,” she said. “I’ve been staying on the straight and narrow, and I don’t play around with my sobriety or any people involved in criminal activity.” Frazier credits her success to a new gender-specific approach taken by D.C.’s Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA) which handles parole and probation cases. Lead by Dr. Willa Butler, the program is the first to specifically cater to female offenders in a criminal justice system designed for men. “It’s a complete paradigm shift,” said Butler. “People say that women are needy, but it’s just that their needs have never been met. We’re trying to change that. When the women are
well taken care of, that reduces recidivism and keeps the community safe. And so far, it’s working.”
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| MARCH 2011
A Focus on Women CSOSA noticed many years ago that the percentage of women in prison was growing dramatically-even though women still make up just a small fraction of the massive incarcerated population of the U.S. They also noticed that the women in their care were not getting the help they needed, and half were ending up back in prison. They used data from Dr. Butler’s own research to design a program that focuses on meeting the unique needs — in parenting, trauma, mental health, and substance abuse — of women offenders. CSOSA Associate Director Thomas Williams explained that the 1,200 women his agency handles have needs and histories that are often ignored in the criminal justice system. “They’re traumatized by bad relationships, often by rape or incest in the home,” he said. “The drugs in our communities have also had a devastating effect on the population. They
can’t get the type of help they need in rently employs a female offender at the negative environments they grow the non-profit Living Classrooms. up in, and that sometimes leads them “Women have children, and a mothto the criminal justice system.” er’s role is so important, so she needs Ashley McSwain is the executive employment much quicker to supdirector of Our Place D.C., a non- port her family.” CSOSA hopes the new approach profit that supports women offenders. Under the current system, she says, will foster greater trust and intimacy women are constantly forced to choose between the agency and the women. between their obligations as parolees In Frazier’s case, this has already been achieved. and their obligations as mothers. “[Dr. Butler] not just interested “Does she stay home with a sick child or go to a Narcotics Anonymous in you because she has to be,” she meeting? Does she see her parole of- said. “She’s a genuine person. You can ficer or go her child’s school play? always talk to her one-on-one if you When you’ve been incarcerated, you have a problem — I’ve sat in her ofdon’t have a lot of leeway, and having fice and cried. She wants to see you to juggle these obligations can derail be a success story, and she believes she can help people turn their life their progress.” Dr. Butler helped design the new around. And she did it with me and gender-specific model—which hopes my family.” to better address the biggest problems she found within her all-female case- A Man’s World: Inside Prison load. Namely, schizophrenia, depres- and Out sion, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem, The number of incarcerated substance abuse, and domestic abuse. women in the U.S. is rising at what She is now working to reorganize McSwain calls “alarming rates.” Her CSOSA so that all the women report organization alone has seen a 30 perto one center focused on their needs— cent increase of women seeking their a “one-stop shop,” in her words. There, help in just the past two years. Many the women can get help with the factors contribute to this, and not many challenges they face—both all of them are clear. The sentencing from professionals and in all-female guidelines of the controversial “War group therapy sessions. on Drugs” --which disproportionate“It’s a holistic approach,” she explained. “We don’t want to treat the disease; we want to treat the whole person and all the people they’re connected to.” McSwain also believes the new model will help the caseworkers have a better sense of how to support women: “There are problems common to all women offenders, but the patterns are hard to see when a caseworker has just four women and 30 to 40 men,” she said. Employers of the offenders also recognize the need for a gender-based reorganizing. “Males and females have different needs,” said native Washingtonian offenders and their families are lead in prayer Waress Majeed, who cur- Former during the City-Wide Reentry Assembly.
ting them a high risk for future involvement with the juvenile or adult corrections systems. Though she asked authorities to let her be kept near D.C. so her children could visit her, Frazier was sent to a prison in Tallahassee, Florida. “I begged those people to bring me closer to home,” she said. “But you don’t have any say when you’re incarcerated—you’re just a number.” It took her 26 hours on a bus to return after her release. Since D.C. has no federal prisons, the closest facilities the women are sent are in Philadelphia or West Virginia. Our Place D.C. organizes monthly van rides for family members out to the prisons, as the trip is much too far and too costly for families of limited means. After a woman’s release, the challenges continue. The programs to help ex-offenders find housing, Associate Director Cedric Hendricks and Imam Bilal Ali Prather achieve sobriety, and learn a trade speak to the mentors and their mentees. are also designed for males. Frazier found all this frustrating ly impacts the poor, women, and people of as she struggled to find work and support her color--has put thousands of D.C. men and children and grandchildren, and hopes to see women behind bars. Many have also turned more classes created with females in mind. to crime to survive in an area where the cost “A lot of women don’t like using a hammer. of living has skyrocketed while employment Maybe they want to use a stethoscope and has become scarce. be a nurse,” she said. It’s even more difficult for women, McSwain says, because the programs and procedures of the U.S. criminal justice system Helping Women Offenders, were designed with men and male behavior Helping D.C. CSOSA Public Affairs Specialist Leonin mind. “We have situations where women are ard Sipes explained that investing in proeven handcuffed and shackled while they’re grams for women offenders is not purely giving birth. She has a five-pound person in- charitable, but an investment. “If we help the women deal with her isside of her! She’s not going anywhere,” she said. “The whole mentality is about dealing sues, she’s going to be able to take care of with aggressive, violent men. But women herself and her kids. The woman comes off the tax roll, the kids come off the tax roll, don’t usually act like that.” City councilmember Phil Mendelson, and she becomes a tax payer and not a tax who chairs the Judiciary Committee, agrees: burden,” he said. “Plus she is no longer in“There should be different programs and ap- volved in criminal activity.” Dr. Butler hopes the new gender-speproaches for the different genders, because women have different attitudes and behav- cific outlook implemented in D.C. will serve as a model for the rest of the country. “It’s iors as well as different needs,” he said. Parenting is another major issue, as the about building relationships, building rapmajority of incarcerated women are mothers, port, building empathy—that’s what gears and 77 percent were the primary caregivers women towards change,” she said. “I think for their children. “You can imagine how dif- this could benefit all women in the criminal ficult it is to parent while you’re in prison,” justice system.” said Williams. When children of incarcerated parents cannot be cared for by a relative, For more information on CSOSA, go to they are often placed in foster care — put- www.csosa.gov. ●
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Live @ Molly’s: 3/3 3/8
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Molly Malone’s 713 8th Street SE (202) 547-1222 www.mollysdc.com CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 21
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS The Numbers
Economic Development by the Numbers New DC Report Uncovers the Mysteries of Where Economic Development Funds Are Going by Kwame Boadi and Ed Lazere
I
t’s hard to imagine getting excited about a report called the “Unified Economic Development Budget,” even in a wonky city like DC. But trust us, if you’re interested in how the District spends your tax dollars, you’ll want to pay attention. The new report tells us that the District spent $327 million on economic development last year (including job training, and affordable housing construction), although much of it goes unseen by the public because it occurs through tax breaks or complex bonding arrangements. Put together, DC spends more on economic development than on the fire department and almost as much as on charter schools. Here are some interesting things to learn from the new report, which came about as a result of legislation sponsored by now-City Council Chairman Kwame Brown: * How much does DC devote to tax breaks? Last year, in the midst of a recession, the Mayor and Council approved business tax breaks that will cost the city $166 million in future revenues. * Who benefits? The new report lists the recipients of all sorts of subsidies. Did you know, for example, that the city gave almost a $1 million last year to “Big K Liquor Properties”? Neither did we.
Until recently, identifying economic development expenditures in DC was no easy task. That’s because funding for economic develop-
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| MARCH 2011
*
Where does the money go? The new report shows where economic development dollars are going, including the fact that nearly 40 percent of 2010 expenditures went to Ward 6. The one thing the new report does not lay out is what the District got for these investments — such as the number of new jobs for DC residents or new affordable housing. But for a city that recently received an ‘F’ in a report card on its disclosure of information on economic development subsidies, the Unified Economic Development Budget still is a major step forward. However, just knowing where the money goes after the fact is not enough. Policymakers and DC residents really need information on proposed subsidies before the subsidy is approved. The city needs a more open and transparent process for considering and approving subsidies. And policymakers and residents need information not only on dollars spent but also on what the city can expect to get in return for its investments.
How Does DC Spend Its Economic Development Dollars?
ment is very different from the way most DC government functions are funded. Take the DC libraries, for example. The DC budget has a full chapter on the library system, laying out how much is spent on various library functions and how spending has changed over time. Economic development, by contrast, comes through a variety of sources: property tax breaks, grants, and revenue bonds. These things typically do not get their own line items in any budget document and thus have been virtually impossible to track until now. The new “Unified Economic Development” for the first time provides a comprehensive list of the different kinds of economic development subsidies the city provides. The economic development-related activities funded by the $327 million break down as follows: * $104 million to pay off money borrowed to finance the convention center, the baseball stadium, and other projects * Over $15 million for business property tax breaks * $104 million t in grants, made by the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, the DC Housing Authority, and the Housing Production Trust Fund. * $95 million in contracts with
for-profit and non-profit companies. The report also reveals $804 million in commitments to support future economic development projects, including $166 million in future property tax breaks.
How Does DC Decide Where to Spend Economic Development Dollars? This new information raises as many good questions as it answers. For example, how did the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development decide which projects would receive the $22 million in grants that it awarded? Why, for example, did the city decide to devote $1.5 million to the O Street Market in Shaw last year, a project that already has gotten substantial assistance from the city? Or why did the city approve $65 million in tax breaks for new market-rate housing in NoMA, when funding for affordable housing has retrenched?
How Can DC Get More Bang from the Economic Development Buck? As we learn more about how much the District is spending on economic development — and where the dollars are going — it is a good time to start thinking about what we are getting in return. With the District facing enormous budget challenges, the
stakes are especially high to target economic development funds on projects that actually merit investment. There is no better recent example of why more accountability is needed than the District’s recent experience with the CoStar Group. A year ago, CoStar convinced the Council that they needed $6.2 million in property tax abatements over 10 years to relocate from Bethesda to downtown DC. CoStar bought a property for $41 million in 2010 and now they’re laughing all the way to the bank, after recently selling it for $101 million – two and one-half times what they paid for it. With that kind of buyer’s market, did they really need a subsidy from the city? Here are some steps that can be taken to make economic development more accountable in DC: Pass legislation to require more information from businesses seeking tax breaks. A bill introduced by Councilmember Michael Brown, the Exemptions and Abatements Information Requirements Act, would require a detailed financial analysis of all proposed commercial tax breaks. It should be passed. Set an economic development budget before the year starts. Each year, the Mayor and Council lay out a budget for every agency — schools, police, public works, etc. But there is no spending plan for economic development, which is why the city ended up approving $166 million in tax breaks that it really couldn’t afford. In order for the Mayor and Council to priori-
tize tax abatement proposals from most to least worthy, our leaders should set an overall cap or budget for how much can be spent each year on tax abatements. Open up the process for awarding economic development funds. Every agency that controls some portion of DC’s economic development budget should have a transparent process for awarding funds that includes public input. Demand more information on benefits for DC residents, and hold subsidy recipients accountable. The District needs to collect more information on what it is receiving when it subsidizes economic development, especially jobs for DC residents. Those kinds of benefits should be built into deals before they are approved, and subsidies should include “clawback” provisions to force subsidy recipients to repay the District if they fail to meet the agreed-upon benefits. In short, the quest for transparency and accountability in economic development should not stop with a report on what DC is spending. That important information should be used as building blocks to enable the Mayor and Council to spend economic development dollars more efficiently and give the public confidence that their money is being spent wisely. Boadi and Lazere are staff at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www.dcfpi. org), which conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect low- and moderate-income DC residents. ●
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★
23
NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
Rendering of Walmart’s Upper Walkway and Main Entry.
Walmart: East of the River by Steve Lilienthal
W
hatever you think of Walmart, its intention to site a store at 58th and East Capitol Street is generating buzz East of the River (EOTR). Why the controversy? The store may be bringing jobs, but Walmart’s reputation as a low wage employer also precedes it. Still, jobs matter in Ward 7 where the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization says unemployment approaches 20%. Aliya Frieson, lives near Walmart’s projected East Capitol site. She sees many young people in her neighborhood who “have nothing much to do.” Not everyone likes Walmart, but jobs and development matter here. Darrin B. Davis, broker/owner of Anacostia River Realty, knows the criticisms of Walmart’s business practices, but adds “I’m all for anything when it comes to providing jobs” and spurring more opportunities in underserved EOTR. Doris Sarumi. interim CEO/President of Marshall Heights, makes clear many Ward 7 residents are “job ready,” but she and Deborah Dews, director of workforce development, are concerned about those who lack strong skills. Unprompted by Walmart, Marshall Heights is launching a campaign to help Ward 7 residents obtain GEDs and better job skills. “We want to help develop a workforce that is ready” to meet the needs of 24 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
Walmart and other employers, Sarumi insists.
Walmart and Jobs Most Walmart employees start off at low wages, but many work their way into better jobs or management, according to Keith Morris, Walmart’s northeast director of public affairs. At a meeting sponsored by ANC 7C and the Capitol View Civic Association (CVCA) late last month, Morris says Walmart stresses local hiring. Morris explains that Walmart is talking with the Department of Employment Services, the Community College of the District of Columbia, and it will increasingly reach out to job development and training organizations in the wards it plans to open stores in to begin developing a workforce for the new stores. Already, Walmart and its foundation have been contributing to organizations concerned with workforce development The company appears to be receptive to hiring people often bypassed by employers, especially in the competitive D.C. market. Walmart, Morris said, is working with the D.C. Housing Authority and the Community College to ensure residents of public housing residents will obtain training for jobs. Walmart is also phasing out the box on job applications asking applicants about prior felony convictions. Background checks, however, | MARCH 2011
will still be conducted on all hires. Steve Restivo, Walmart’s community affairs director, wrote in an email, “In D.C., our wages and benefits are as good -- if not better than -- the majority of businesses we compete with, including unionized grocers. Our average hourly wage in the Washington, D.C. region is $12.49/hour.” Employees are eligible for health benefits after working for Walmart for six months (full-time) or one year (part-time), contributing anywhere from $11 (associate only) to $33 (for a family) per pay period. Plus, the company’s new health plans are expected to help cover out-of-pocket expenses. “All of our plans exceed the affordability and coverage requirements in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act,” writes Restivo.
Walmart’s Critics Not everyone buys Walmart’s positioning itself as a socially responsible corporation. Concern about small business is expressed as is pay and benefits for Walmart workers. Gary Cha, owner of Yes! Organic Markets, opened a store on Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. Cha asserts it is better for DC to have more “unique” community stores than Walmart and distributes a flyer that presents the question as shuttered small stores versus big-box Walmart. It’s an argument that may resonate better in other areas, such as Georgia Avenue, where a more vibrant small business community exists. When Councilwoman Yvette Alexander appeared at CVCA/ANC 7C’s meeting, she expressed dismay that so little retail development has occurred in Ward 7 and expresses hope that Walmart’s coming will help to generate more local businesses. Opponents, such as Walmart Free DC, and a coalition, the Living Wages, Healthy Communities Coalition, take aim at Walmart. The former group charges studies showing large numbers of Walmart employees receive low wages, and receive publicly subsidized healthcare. They say that Walmart is anti-union and a large class action suit is being brought forth by female employees charging the company with discriminatory practices in pay and promotions. Walmart critics say employee contributions required for participation in the company’s health plans appear to be reasonably priced, but the deductibles
are very high. “Access to benefits,” says a Walmart Free DC t-shirted woman at the meeting who challenges Morris’ phrasing, “does not guarantee benefits.” Jennifer Stapleton of coalition member United Food and Commercial Workers, wonders whether “what Walmart claims is believable” given what it pays and practices elsewhere in the country. The online Colorado Health Insider, reviewing Walmart’s unveiling of new health plans last fall, expressed concern many low-income workers would still have trouble paying high deductibles if they need major medical treatment. The Living Wages, Healthy Communities Coalition, comprised of churches, social justice organizations, labor unions, and the DC Federation of Civic Associations is also sparring with Walmart. Its platform is based on a signed, legally enforceable community benefit agreement that would ensure jobs to D.C. residents who would start out at Walmart earning living wages ($12.50 per hour), and have stronger, guaranteed benefits comprises its platform. Rev. Kendrick Curry, pastor at Baptist Church in SE, is active in the coalition. Walmart’s decision not to seek tax breaks from the city may limit the public’s leverage. Curry asserts city officials “should have the wisdom and courage to ask the tough questions. Are we talking about jobs or a solid jobs strategy with benefits for the residents of DC? Will they really invest in the community and will it be sustainable over time?”
Some leverage may exist. The Ward 7 site is currently not zoned for retail. The District’s Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map does designate the site for mixed use, so a rezoning to include retail use is a necessity for Walmart. The zoning appeal would give the Capitol View Civic Association and ANC 7C an opportunity for input about community concerns and wishes and some leverage to require certain community benefits. A few weeks before the meeting, Julius Ware, president of the Ward 7 Business and Professional Association, offered a view which appears to be shared by supporters and many critics of Walmart: “The challenge we have is to get the most out of Walmart’s coming.” Stephen Lilienthal is a freelance writer who lives in Washington, D.C. ●
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
The MOM van, parked in a busy section of Anacostia, displays a hotline women can call anytime for information.
MOM Van Brings Prenatal Care to the Community article & photos by Alice Ollstein
U
nemployment, homelessness, household income and crime are all ways to assess the health and livability of a city—but one very basic measure is infant mortality. The infant mortality rate of DC is one of the worst among large American cities. The District had a rate of 10.9 per 1,000 births in 2008, while the national average is just over 6. Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8 have the highest rates of infant mortality — as women in those neighborhoods have little access to healthy food, prenatal care, and basic services. For that reason, the DC Department of Health created a mobile unit to reach out to women in those wards and get them started on a prenatal care plan as early as possible in their pregnancies. Dubbed the “MOM Van,” the converted RV parks in visible, heavily trafficked spots, and any-
one passing by can stop in and receive a full physical and pelvic exam, lab work, testing for HIV and pregnancy, and appointments with a doctor for future checkups. The van visits one neighborhood each day, and the number of women who stop by varies. “Depending on the time of the month, the weather, and the foot traffic, we’ll see anywhere from zero to 25 women a day,” said Tawana Fortune-Jones, Chief of the Outreach & Family Support Service of the DC DOH. The massive RV, plastered with photos and slogans, serves as its own advertising. But the program is also publicized on buses, at bus stops and on the radio. “Our goal is to be visible out in the community,” she said. Once they climb the stairs and enter the van, women can watch educational DVDs or read up on nutrition and fitness while waiting to see
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a nurse. After the consultation, the nurses can provide vitamins and condoms, and refer women to services from job training to welfare to a shelter to stay in. “We get them in touch with everything they need to have a healthy baby,” said Family Nurse Practitioner Ava Hancock, who works on the MOM van. The van is not meant to be a woman’s source of health care during her pregnancy, and it is rare for a woman to even come back a second time. “It’s more of a one-stop shop, where we focus on identifying the client’s needs,” explained Hancock. “She won’t be coming to us the whole nine months—but we can get her started, and hopefully she will go to the providers we recommend.” The MOM Van is part of the DOH’s “I am a Healthy DC Mom” campaign, which encourages pregnant women in the District to make three pledges: to stay fit and eat right, to commit to 40 weeks of prenatal care, and to keep the baby safe and healthy once it is born. “Our mobile unit will help connect women to the appropriate education and care they need to ensure healthy birth outcomes in our city,” said DOH Director Dr. Mohammad Akhter. “As a public health agency, and as one community coming together, we must do all that we can to help reduce our infant mortality rate so that all babies born in the District are born healthy and with the ability to grow and thrive.”
Serving the Underserved When asked to paint a picture of the typical woman who visits the
MOM van, Hancock described an African American woman late in her pregnancy, in the second or third trimester. She doesn’t have insurance, she is unemployed or underemployed, and she has not yet had any prenatal care. She comes to the van because she happens to see it parked in her neighborhood, and is generally unaware of the resources available to her. She has poor nutrition, sometimes even anemia. Many are tobacco smokers or alcohol drinkers. Some have HIV. Some have abusive partners. The program also takes into account all the factors in a woman’s life that could affect her pregnancy. “We ask the women about their housing situation and their economic situation, and we screen for depression, substance abuse and domestic abuse,” explained Hancock. Many of these factors contribute to the two biggest causes of infant mortality: low birth weight and preterm labor. To combat these trends, Hancock stressed the importance of getting women started with pre-natal care early—and testing early for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. “Some we can treat on the spot,” she said. “But if not, we tell them where to go for treatment. It’s especially important for a pregnant woman to treat her STIs as soon as possible, because it could affect the baby.” Though most women do follow up with a clinic after visiting the MOM van, Hancock acknowledges the difficulties some women face in staying in a prenatal care plan. “Some have no transportation
Family Nurse Practitioner Ava Hancock gives a tour of the examining room.
to the clinic, or they can’t get someone to take care of their children while they go, or they have no insurance,” she said. “They also have stress factors like a lack of employment or a lack of family support.” These issues are even more present in the Wards served by the van. The DOH selected Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8 for the MOM van’s route to address both a lack of resources in those neighborhoods and a lack of awareness about what resources are available. “Over the years, a lot of OB-GYNs have left DC, due to factors like insurance rates, malpractice claims, and a general high liability,” said Hancock. “I also believe that many are biased against working in some of these neighborhoods. I don’t understand that because during my training I was always taught that it was best to work in underserved communities.” She also says not enough information is available about what resources are out there, making the MOM van crucial as an outreach and education tool. “We had a client yesterday who didn’t know there was a clinic just two blocks from her home,” she said. According to Dr. LaQuandra Nesbitt, the DOH Senior Deputy Director for Community Health, the MOM van served over 200 women last year, and hopes to reach even more in the future. Though the organization expressed concern about the looming budget crisis facing both the District and the nation, they are confident they will continue to be able to provide care to the mothers of DC. “Infant mortality indicates the health of a community,” said Fortune-Jones. “I hope the powers that be won’t make cuts to the services that help bring that rate down.” For more information or to find out when the DOH MOM Van will be in your area, visit www.doh.dc.gov or call 1-800MOM-BABY. ●
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NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS
To Ward 7 Residents:
I
wanted to take this opportunity to speak about my philosophy regarding the best Ward in the city, Ward 7; and comment on some of the spending of my constituent services fund that has not been reported. Ward 7 is a ward of 70,000 people and my motto is “Making Ward 7 One.” Ward 7 is comprised of residents that represent every aspect of the socioeconomic ladder. It also has 29 distinct communities, almost as many civic associations as well as very active advisory neighborhood commissions. From the very beginning, it has been clear to me that the best way to serve my 70,000 residents was to support and empower the powerful network of organizations already established in the ward so that they can help me reach and support the community as a whole. I have supported them by ensuring easy access to government services and continuing to make sure that all of the leadership in the ward had as much information as possible about what is happening not only within the civic associations or ANC, but throughout the ward, hence, “Making Ward 7 One.” The starting point for this effort was to maintain a Constituent Services office in Ward 7. Let me be clear, free constituent office space is available in D.C. Government owned buildings. Unfortunately, there were no D.C. Government owned buildings in Ward 7 and so the best choice I had was to rent space in the ward to make city services accessible for residents. I am mindful of how expensive it can be for Ward 7 residents to travel downtown to the John A. Wilson building and that is why I chose to provide an office in the neighborhood that was easily accessible and convenient for Ward 7constituents. Office space is expensive and includes leases, telephones, fax machines, copy machines, computers, internet access and more. It also requires maintenance of these electronics. These expenses are not covered by the government; therefore, the constituent services funds were used to cover the costs since these services are in place to aid the residents of Ward 7. Over the last three years, the cost of rent, maintenance and upkeep of the constituent services office has amounted to approximately $60,000. With the amount spent, my office has been able to serve over 4,000 Ward 7 residents who have sought out assistance by coming to the office. While serving as the Ward 7 council member, I have committed to maintaining the tradition of hosting a State of the Ward event where I provide an annual comprehensive overview of the ward. At this event, I provide recognition plaques to outstanding members of the community and I cater a dinner for the approximately 250 people that attend this event knowing that it occurs during most people’s dinner time. Over the years I have provided over 100 plaques to groups including all ANC’s, Civic Association Presidents and non-profit leaders. Over the last three
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years, the total costs for this annual event has amounted to approximately $9,000. The cost of plaques and the catered dinner can be expensive but I believe it is extremely important to recognize those who commit their time and energy for our community. Every year, I have committed to honor the top student of every graduating class of all 32 schools in Ward 7. I believe that it is important to recognize excellence among our students and to encourage them to continue on the right path as they pursue their education further. Over the last three years, approximately $4,500 has been spent on plaques to honor these students and to show that I, along with the residents of Ward 7, are proud of them and support them in their achievement. Civic associations, organizations and individuals are certainly the backbone of every ward and I have made it a priority to support them to the best of my ability. Along with attending all civic association meetings, I have sponsored or purchased tables at fundraising events that were hosted by the civic associations as well as bought advertisement space in program books and sponsored festivals. Many of these events were geared towards raising funds to help members of the community that are in need. In addition to sponsoring these events, bereavement contributions, rental and utility assistance were provided directly to Ward 7 residents in need. Over the last three years this has totaled to more than $14,000. I have continued the tradition of having leadership council meetings where I invite all ANCs, Civic Association Presidents, and other community leaders to discuss important topics pertaining to Ward 7. Since I have been in office I have hosted more than 20 of these meetings on Saturday mornings while providing breakfast. The best available time to have this meeting and to not intrude on other scheduled civic meetings is Saturday morning. Out of respect for asking people to come out for a 9 a.m. meeting during the weekend, we cater a breakfast that is approximately $500 per event or $10,000 overall. Therefore, approximately $98,000 over the last three years has gone directly to Ward 7 residents. In addition, the resources that residents have been able to access as a result of having an office in the ward reach well over $250,000. I am also pleased that the constituent services funds are used to support Ward 7 residents such as the landlord for the Ward 7 office, the caterer for the events and the owner of the company that designs the honorary plaques for outstanding Ward 7 residents. There are more expenditures that go to Ward 7, including expenditures out of my own pocket, but I wanted to demonstrate that the money raised for Ward 7 constituents goes completely to Ward 7. I was born and raised in Ward 7, I love Ward 7, I pump gas at the number 7 pump at Ward 7 gas stations and I fight for Ward 7 everyday. I am proud of the way I am able to support the ward with my Constituent Services Fund. March 30, 2011 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. is my next State of the Ward event and it will be held at the Department of Employment Services building – a new D.C. Government owned building located in Downtown Ward 7 at the intersection of Minnesota Avenue and Benning Road. This building will also house my new, and free, Constituent Services office. Continuing my theme of “Making Ward 7 One,” I encourage you all to come out on March 30 for this tremendous event. Dinner will be served.
Sincerely, The Honorable Yvette M. Alexander Councilmember – Ward 7
The Man From Anacostia
How Long Do I Have to Wait? by Charles Wilson
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ne recent Sunday afternoon, I was hanging out with my old college buddy, Dave, at his home located in a new Northwest DC development. While we were lighting up the barbeque grill on his deck, his next door neighbors came outside because of the smell of my awesome teriyaki turkey burgers. After coming over to taste a burger, he and his neighbors began to talk about a particular house in the neighborhood. They were discussing how many people would come and go from the house on a daily basis. As I stood there, it seemed to me as though they were more concerned about not knowing who lived in the house, rather than the appearance of the house. After all it was a newly built home. Once their conversation ended, I begin to laugh. They asked why I was laughing. I told them how funny it was to hear them complain about one house in their neighborhood. I mentioned that my neighbors and I complain about almost every third house in mine. My buddy’s response was, “Well, that’s the price you pay for living a transitional neighborhood.” I thought about it. Was this true? Is there is an understood price to pay for living in a neighborhood that is going through a transition? Do people view east of the river neighborhoods as places where there are things that come with living in our neighborhoods that we have to put up with? My answer is Yes and No.
Let me start with the No’s. The two biggest complaints I hear about my neighborhood is the number of home burglaries and the number of abandoned or poorly kept properties. I often hear people implying that we will have to wait for our neighborhood to become more diverse before we see any improvement. Is this true? Do I have to wait another five to ten years to see any kind of improvement? I hope not. As a District resident who pays his taxes, I deserve the same care and attention from the District Government as residents who live across the river. I should not have to wait for a condo revolution to occur before I see improvement. That’s just not fair. Now the Yes. The beauty of living in my neighborhood is that there are any number of issues for everyone take the lead on to resolve. We need to take action on putting an end to abandoned property, crime, trash on the street, ugly power lines, tree trimming and kids hanging out on the corner seemingly with nothing to do. That is the price we pay. As our neighborhoods stand today, no one can afford to get up in the morning, go to work, come home and close their door off to the surrounding community and expect to wake up the next morning and Voila! -- a perfect neighborhood. We all need to get involved and do our part, because the reality is no one person, one community organization, or one council member can do it by themselves. So as the conversation went on, I was asked why I choose to live in Anacostia. They pointed out that I could easily find a place in Ward 3 and not have to deal with the issues mentioned above. My answer was pretty simple, I choose to live here because Anacostia feels like home. My neighbors are great, the neighborhood has a tremendous amount of history, I can get to anywhere in the city quickly because of the convenient access to highways and I see tons of potential. And though there are certain issues, I have a sense of hope and expectation that things will get better, so why would I want to leave. So ask yourself. What am I doing to improve the quality of life in my neighborhood? If you expect for someone else do it, you may have to wait a very long time. The battle is waiting for you and it is probably right outside your front steps. Charles Wilson was a former candidate for the Ward 8 City Council and is a neighborhood activist in Historic Anacostia. He is serving as Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in Single Member District 8A04. He can be reached at charleswilsonhu@gmail.com. ●
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 29
“Anacostia is a priceless gem hidden in plain sight.”
Mind, Body, Spirit
ANACOSTIA
article & photos by Sam Tyler
A fighter wraps his hands to prevent injury before sparring, Tony’s Boxing Gym, Washington DC, November 15, 2010
first turned my camera on Anacostia in 1997, when, as a transplant from upstate New York, I found studio space in a huge home off of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue near the Anacostia Metro stop. It was twenty times more space than I needed: four floors, four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a backyard that felt as if it extended the full length of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, and pond with gold fish. The home was designed and built throughout the ‘60s and ‘70s by a Howard University-educated architect who, with his wife, a medical doctor, enjoyed hosting cocktail parties. Together, they refused to limit themselves to the prevailing ideas of that time about what black folk should have and should be. By 1997 Washington was exiting a difficult period, and the headlines about Anacostia offered provocative and charged stories of life across the river, yet it seemed to me that the residents had little, if any, input in the telling. Those narratives rarely presented Anacostia as a community of hard working, middle class families with children and dreams and mortgages -- that is what I wanted to show. At that time I was heavily under the influence of Roy Decarava, and wanted my photographs to capture Anacostia with the same simplicity, space, beauty and cultural accuracy with which his had captured Harlem. In early November of 2010, I returned to Anacostia to document the extensive development happening along the Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue corridor, and add to the portfolio that I began photographing 14 years earlier. The Big Chair was gone, and the investment in coffee shops, wellness centers and art galleries was a surprise that challenged the memory of my old neighborhood. As an entry point, I began working with business and religious leaders in the community to coordinate photographing inside community institutions that supported wholeness - health, wellbeing and spiritual life. Visual communication is the most universally potent form of communication mankind has to work with. The photographs in this series, Anacostia: Mind, Body, Spirit, are intended as fine art pieces that communicate the beautiful faces and unique spirit of Anacostia in crisp black and white. Sam Tyler is a photojournalist dividing his time between Washington, DC and New York City. His work has appeared in Essence Magazine, AMERICAS Magazine, Legal Times, and The Washington Spark. He has exhibited at the Charles Sumner Museum and Archives, Cuba’s Teatro Nacional, Starbucks and the Academy for Educational Development. The full spread of Anacostia: Mind, Body, Spirit and its Video Notebook are available at Samclix.com. For gallery talks, exhibition bookings and other information, please send a detailed query to Sam@samclix.com. ●
A boxer warms up in the ring before sparring, Tony’s Boxing Gym, Washington DC, November 15, 2010
One of only a few women who train as boxers at Tony’s Boxing Gym, Washington DC, November 17, 2010.
Portrait of a boxer. Tony’s Boxing Gym, Washington DC, November 15, 2010 Usher, Jean Moon reflects during Sunday service, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Washington DC, November 21, 2010.
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 31
EAST WASHINGTON LIFE
Brian Mitchell Awaits NFL Hall of Fame Invite by John Muller Mitchell retired in 2003 after playing for two of Washington’s NFC East rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants.
Relationship with fans
Brian Mitchell with Natasha Dasher at Uniontown.
efore playing 10 seasons with the Washington Redskins, and in the process becoming beloved by fans, Brian Mitchell, known as “BMitch,” first came to Washington, DC in 1986 as a high school senior on a Presidential Classroom program sponsored by Upward Bound. “On that trip I said, ‘I’m going to live here.’” recalled the 42-year-old Mitchell, a Louisiana native. “It sure
B
worked out.” Inducted into the Redskins’ Ring of Fame in 2009, Mitchell was selected by the team with the 130th pick of the 1990 NFL Draft. Although Mitchell set NCAA records as a quarterback at Southwestern Lousiana, Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs shifted him to special teams. In his second season Mitchell led the NFL with 600 punt return yards and two return touchdowns.
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“I identify with BMitch,” said Joshua Champ, 32, a patrol officer with the Seventh District. “He’s a short guy, like me, but he brings the biggest heart all the time.” Officer Champ recalled what is known as the “Body Bag Game,” when Mitchell, then a rookie, played quarterback on “Monday Night Football” after the Eagles knocked the Redskins’ starting and back-up quarterbacks out of the game. “You should have been higher,” said Champ who, a couple days before meeting Mitchell at Uniontown Bar & Grill in Anacostia, had watched a program on the NFL Network featuring its Top Ten Versatile Players of AllTime. Mitchell was ranked eighth. First gaining experience in radio with his own segment on WHUR (96.3 FM) in 1993 and later with WTEM (980AM), Mitchell has since become a fixture on Comcast Sportsnet and WUSA (Channel 9). Fans have come to trust his perspective and inside analysis as a member of the last Redskins team to win a Super Bowl in 1991. Mitchell, whose last season in Washington was Dan Snyder’s first, said the owner’s free-spending ways have changed how the Redskins are perceived around the league. “People come (to Washington) to get paid,” Mitchell said. “Let somebody else buy the diamond ring for you,” challenges Mitchell, referring to the ring players on championship winning teams receive from the NFL. “Today the game is softer. It went from being rated R to rated PG. The players are bigger and stronger, but not necessarily tougher,” says Mitchell. Mitchell believes that there’s a
natural and reciprocal feeling of affection between himself and his fans. As a community, Washington is not for “pushovers” and has an “edginess” that Mitchell identifies with and fans identify in him. “Some players have a tendency to avoid fans, but BMitch gravitates towards those who support him and he supports them back,” says Rick “Doc” Walker, a member of the Redskins’ 1982 Super Bowl champions and established local media personality.
Hall of Fame qualifications When asked what it was like to be a return man in the NFL, Mitchell said “you have to be a crazy person” to survive within the “organized chaos” where the “fastest and craziest are coming for your head.” “To the person who was trying to tackle me, I always tried to deliver the blow,” Mitchell fondly tells with a wide smile. “If I was the person (off the field that) I was on the field, I would be in jail.” Veteran sportswriter David Elfin is the Washington representative on the selection committee of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. “Brian was different than most kick returners who are usually speed guys. Brian was unusual in that he ran over people,” said Elfin, a former President of the Pro Football Writers of America who covered Mitchell for The Washington Times from 199399. “He’s number one in all-time return yards. If you are the best ever, why are you not in the Hall of Fame?” Walker agreed that Mitchell should be enshrined. “He is worthy of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, his numbers speak for themselves,” says Walker. “Among his peers, he is in the Hall; the people have put in him, because the boy was a flat-out baller.” But Mitchell knows that his former Redskins teammate and thee time-
time Super Bowl Champion Art Monk, at the time of his retirement the leader in NFL history in receptions, waited eight years before his selection to the Hall of Fame in 2008. In Mitchell’s last game as a Redskin on January 15, 2000 in the Divisional Playoff game versus the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he returned the second half kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown that put the Redskins up 10-0 in a game they would lose 14-13. While Mitchell’s bruising style of play and fervent trashtalking earned him a special place in the hearts of local fans, his statistics are what confirm his credentials for induction into the Hall of Fame. Mitchell currently holds the NFL’s All-Time record for most kick returns: 607; kick return yards, 14,104, punt returns, 463, and punt return yards, 4,999; combined returns at 1,070 and combined return yards at 19,013. Mitchell is second only to receiver Jerry Rice with 23,316 all-purpose yards, which adds up to more than 13 total miles. His 13 return touchdowns (nine on punt returns and four on kick returns) are secondmost-all time, behind current player Devin Hester. At the time of his retirement Mitchell was the all-time leader in return touchdowns. He also rushed for 12 touchdowns and caught 4 receiving touchdowns. Fittingly, Mitchell actively interacts with Redskins fans through two Facebook accounts he manages and his Twitter page, “Bmitchlive,” with nearly 2,300 followers. Following the lead of former players who became successful motivational and public speakers, Mitchell plans to continue building relationships with all fans, even one as young as seven years old who claims Mitchell, and former Baltimore Colt quarterback Johnny Unitas, are his favorite players of all-time. ●
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Elect PHILIP PANNELL 8 Consistent... Persistent...for Ward
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
202.562.2726 www:pannellforward8.com Philippannell@comcast.net Pannell for Ward 8, Michael Sainte-Andress,Treasurer CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 33
EAST WASHINGTON LIFE I Am Ward 8 Series
William Borum Project Administrator, Believer, Success Story by Nikki Peele
Ask anyone who lives in Ward 8 and they will tell you, the best thing about living here is the people. The “I am Ward 8” series asks a Ward 8 resident eight questions about their life living in Ward 8. It offers insight into the varied backgrounds, perspectives, and hopes of the people who call the many neighborhoods of Ward 8 home.
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his month’s subject is William A. Borum. Mr. William, 50, has deep ties to Ward 8. He grew up in Barry Farm, lives in Savannah Terrace, and works in Historic Anacostia as a Project Administrator for Estimé Enterprises, Inc., a minorityowned strategic solutions consulting firm. Mr. William is a “glass is half full” type of person, he always see a silver lining in a cloud, and believes that every person - regardless of their past - has a purpose. He is inspirational, yet humble and is filled with much hope and excitement for the next chapter in the Ward 8 story. It is with pleasure that I present March’s “I am Ward 8” honoree, William A. Borum.
make mistakes and learn a lesson. Then leaving Southeast I thought about it in a new way, I saw it a new way, something I couldn’t see until I stepped away from it. Then five years after being away I came back after liv-
What brought you to Ward 8? More like “when”, I was born in Knox Terrance in 1960 in Ward 7 behind 7th District and my grandma lived in Barry Farm from 1958 up to 1980, at 1234 Stevens Rd. So “Soufeas,” in Ward 7 and Ward 8, up and down this MLK Avenue is home to me. My parents lived here, and my grandparents lived here and I was fortunate enough to live here. I can remember way back when... it was always a closeness, even in the neighborhoods. We would always protect our neighborhoods; we wouldn’t let anyone come in and do anything, even on a teenage level we looked out. Growing up we would 34 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
| MARCH 2011
(l-r) William Borum, James Shelby Senior and James Shelby Jr at The Hive
ing in Maryland, DC, and Virginia. Then when through no decision of my own I was brought back, I saw there was a purpose. I have experience having made bad decisions and paying for those bad decisions. I came back and I am empowering the people who I used to know, to show them a new way. The knowledge has been brought to me and it’s great. We are in a different place. If we have our ears and eyes open, we can take advantage of this opportunity. This is why I am back. Unlike Northwest, the Ward 7 and Ward 8 resident didn’t receive the type of “care taking” that other residents had. There is a difference. In Southeast, I always recognized that the Southeast resident, especially in Ward 8, did not receive the same treatment of upper Northwest and it was sad. It is sad now when I look at it. I have an opportunity now to embrace each and every brother and sister out there in these streets who doesn’t think there is a way out. It doesn’t matter what you have done in the past if you are willing to submit and make a change. They can take advantage of the opportunities. The change and progress is here. You feel it. I am not going anywhere. I have never felt this type of change and “overhaul” before. I am glad to be here and I love it. I am going to open up a business here and I am going to hire people and employ black men and youths and empower them. I am doing this for the brothers and sisters out here. This isn’t hard. You can do this.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about Ward 8? I am not going to say that everybody feels this way, cause I have met a lot of people and business owners and they are enthused about employing Ward 8 residents, I work for such a company, Estimé Enterprises. Now then you have others who may say, “Lets go in and do what we got to do cause they don’t want to do nothing, they are lazy.” You can’t judge a people, you
have to take us as individuals, not a whole. If you sit down with me, we are going to have an intelligent conversation. No one is going to look down on me, I work hard and I have a lot of common sense and that goes a long way. There is a transition going on. I would want people who don’t have the best impression of Ward 8 to give us a chance. We can all benefit. You have some that have a sincere heart and want to help, and others who just want to do their business and get out.
What is your favorite thing about Ward 8? So many! The potential of the people. I went up to the Overlook the other day and I stood in the parking lot and looked over to Virginia. It was so beautiful. The chair. I remember in 1965 when Santa Claus used to sit in that chair and ring his bell -- that was cool. Someone should do that again.
What is your wish for Ward 8? That one day (and it’s coming soon) that it won’t be looked down upon. I would like at least 50% of Ward 8 to still be black. Because if another race comes in and totally eliminates the black race to a small percentage it will look like we have never been here before. I think a good even split will be good for the Ward -- it will allow everyone to get to know each other and they can get along, they can learn form each other. If it can start in one of the underutilized parts of the city, it would spread. It could be Hispanics, whites, and blacks getting along over there, it’s such a beautiful place. Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue -people should be able to say that and have a good time, all this racial harmony.
Which name do you prefer? East of the River, East Washington, or River East? In my younger days we called it “Soufeas,” now I say “Southeast” I’m a businessman. ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★
35
EAST WASHINGTON LIFE
detector and the it with the metal d me fra I . ss cla to a young lady going is late for class. I took a picture ofing to the clock to show that she int clock. She’s po
This picture show of privacy. We ares a student gathering her stuff, it and then we have late to class because we wait in takes a lot of time and it’s an inv as lin to gather all of ou r stuff back up an e to go through the metal detect ion or d put all of our clo thes back on..
Personal items -- belt, cell phone, iPod
cRiTiCaL eXpOsUrE Article and Photos by Tony Cotton
T
Self portrait of Tony Cotton.
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hese photos are about the metal detectors. I took them in the morning, when students were coming into the school. I took the photos to show what we have to go through when we come to school in the morning. We have to take our shoes off, take our hats off, shake our dreads out, take everything out of our pockets…it takes too much time, it takes too much time. We are late to class because we wait in line to go through the metal detector and then we have to gather all of our stuff back up and put all of our clothes back on. It makes me mad because other schools don’t have to go through all of this. We feel violated. We get stripped just to come into school. We are already in an alternative school, and being searched makes us feel like we’re in jail. I come to school because I want to come to school, but going through the metal detectors makes me not want to come because I have to take everything off, and it makes me feel bad because it reinforces the idea of us feeling like criminals…but we’re not, we’re students trying to get our education. ●
| MARCH 2011
This photo essay was created by Tony Cotton, an 18-year-old student at Luke C. Moore, during a program that he participated in with Critical Exposure. Critical Exposure is a non-profit organization in Washington, D.C. that teaches young people to use the power of photography and their own words to advocate for education reform and social change. Over the years, Critical Exposure has worked with students to document issues such as poor school facilities, homelessness, teen pregnancy, school lunches and the dropout crisis. During last semester, Critical Exposure partnered with a Luke C. Moore art class to investigate ways to improve the school, while also forming a conversation about the overall success that the school is having in creating a second chance for many students who have struggled to get through high school in the past. For more information about Critical Exposure’s work, visit: www.criticalexposure.org or contact us: info@criticalexposure.org). -Emma Scott
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 37
East Washington History Focus
Sundance Film Festival Winner “Slam”
Morgan Family Fish Fry Home-Style dining and Friendly Faces by Nikki Peele
article & photos by John Muller
Slam features a DC that Hollywood overlooks.
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alking through the southeast neighborhood of Garfield Heights at 23rd & Hartford Street, blocks from the Seventh District Police Station, Raymond Joshua, played by now internationally known literary figure Saul Williams, is greeted by a large group of neighborhood children happy to see him. When the ice cream truck arrives, Joshua, a hand-to-hand drug dealer, makes sure everyone gets what they want, even a child who insists, repeatedly, “I want chocolate!” Sitting with the children outside of an apartment building Joshua, a well-known street bard, encourages a young man known as “Lil’ Troy” to add to the two-line rhyme he shares. The opening scene of 1998’s critically acclaimed Slam, awarded the Grand Jury Prize for Best Dramatic Feature at the Sundance Film Festival, captures the city in a way that Hollywood’s historic portrayals, focused almost exclusively on political thrillers, never quite have. “Slam brings a light to some of the issues that are very relevant to DC,” says Weusi Baraka, credited in the film for his short speaking role where he buys a bag of weed from Joshua. Baraka was invited to the set by Williams, his cousin. His role in the film was improvised, as much of the film was, according to Baraka. Slam, written and directed by Marc Levin, known for directing the HBO documentary “Thug Life in D.C.” and more recently producing the critically acclaimed HBO documentary minise-
ries about Newark, New Jersey, Brick City, tells the story of a young man trying to escape the restrictive confines of Lorton Correctional Complex through the power of the written word after being charged with drug possession while fleeing the scene of a shooting. While in Lorton, Joshua is faced with the dilemma of joining, for protection, the “Union Crew,” led by Hopha, played by the well-known urban journalist Bonz Malone, or being attacked by a rival jail crew. In the prison recreation yard, Joshua is approached by the leader of the rival crew and instead of fighting with his fists, he unleashes a verbal salvo that leaves fellow prisoners speechless. “I forgot what I was thinking,” says Hopha as Joshua walks away unscathed from the awestruck crowd. In the hallway back to his cell Joshua meets Lauren Bell, played by Sonja Sohn, known for her role in “The Wire” as Detective Greggs. Bell, impressed by Joshua’s poetic performance in the yard, invites him to attend the poetry class she teaches to a small group of prisoners. The film culminates in Joshua’s triumphant performance at a U Street open mic; Joshua then wanders the city at night with his future in doubt. Capturing scenes of Eastern Market, U Street, the metro, and cameos by well-known DC figures such as Roach Brown as a public defender and Marion Barry as a judge who chastises Joshua for his involvement in the city’s drug trade, Slam is a raw representation of DC that deserves its recognition as a valuable film. ●
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he sign says it all: Morgan Family Fish Fry, “food so great, you’ll scrape your plate”. Referred to by some as just “Morgan’s” to others as “the fish fry place,” Morgan Family Fish Fry is a Historic Anacostia staple and the place for those looking for delicious takeout with great service at affordable prices. Morgan Fish Fry is not just a place to eat, it’s a Ward 8 institution. Even on a Sunday afternoon, when most of Historic Anacostia’s dining establishments elect to take the day off, Morgan Family Fish Fry is not only open, but it’s busy. A steady stream of hungry customers make their way to the white tiled counter and make their selections from the simple black and white menu. Morgan’s offers an extensive array of eats, everything for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Menu items include everything from waffles and wings, to fried catfish, to crab cakes. Side orders include French fries, onion rings, home-style collard greens, cabbage, yams, coleslaw, macaroni n’ cheese, and potato salad. Home-style describes not only the food but also the atmosphere. Morgan’s wants you to know this a family owned establishment. On this Sunday afternoon, Mr. Donald Morgan Jr. himself stands at the counter taking orders, making recommendations (“You have to try the tilapia or the catfish”), and artfully arranging the pie and cake slices. Morgan’s staff greets customers by name and with a smile, often swapping stories, and laughs; “This is one of those last old school black-owned carry-outs. They treat you like family here, not like an anonymous customer. They aren’t trying to take your money and push you out. The first time I came here, Mr. Morgan gave me
a free dessert and invited me to come back. That is why I come back, it’s like family,” says Myra Campbell. Morgan’s Family Fish Fry prides itself on being a family-owned and operated small business. Family photos line the walls, and there is a good chance that the person taking your order is part of the Morgan family. Donald Morgan III is only twelve but he works the register and the customers as skillfully as someone does twice his age. He has been working at the family business since he was eight years old. When asked what he likes best about working at the family business he says emphatically, “The compliments!” Says repeat customer, Alvin Kelly, “This is a young man working the register, this is what I like about this place. Everything about it is family oriented and the food is good, this is why I come back.” On my visit to Morgan Family Fish Fry, Mr. Morgan Jr. takes my order and recommends that as a first time customer I should try the fried catfish with the cabbage and macaroni and cheese. For dessert, he recommends the chocolate cake. I only had to wait 15 minutes for my order and the food did not disappoint. The catfish was fresh and crispy, the macaroni and cheese was tender and cheesy, and the cabbage was well seasoned and cooked to perfection. The chocolate cake looked and tasted amazing. A satisfying meal without having to cook. Their motto does indeed ring true, “food so great, you’ll scrape your plate.” I will be back and ready to eat! Morgan Family Fish Fry, 2323 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE, 202-678-6463. Hours: MonThurs 7am-9pm; Fri 7am-11pm; Sat 8am-9pm; Sun 8am-6pm (Breakfast until 4pm) To learn more about great places to eat, shop, and live in Anacostia visit: www.eatshopliveanacostia.com. ●
Dr. Michangelo Scruggs, Podiatrist
Community Child Development Center
Private Doctors in Southeast DC, Part II
“A Child’s World for Learning”
by B. Michelle Harris McQureerir
D
r. Michangelo Scruggs, D.P.M. is passionate about providing quality podiatric health care to residents across DC. His podiatric practice, Footprint Podiatry Consultants, is located at United Medical Center on Southern Avenue. When I asked him why he chose to practice in Southeast DC, Scruggs stated, “I believe a person should get quality health care. At the end of the day, it is about being honest with your patient, even if you have a lot of other patients to see.” Scruggs has been in Washington, D.C., for nearly nine years. He did his residency in medicine at Howard University Hospital. He obtained additional training in podiatric surgery at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. “ I saw the vision that leaders of UMC have and I liked its overall appeal. We have to look at UMC for the quality care that is offered here. The credentials of doctors here are the same or better than at other hospitals,” Scruggs said. Listening to his patients is important to Scruggs. “I’m a doctor that believes in patient feedback. I believe that patients are the vitality of your business. Without patients, there is no reason to be here. I treat my patients like my family. If I won’t do it to my family, I won’t do it to them.” Who are his patients? “I see patients of any age group. I have a large number of adolescents.” Most adolescents and children are seen because of injury and trauma. Scruggs also sees patients with sports-related injuries and fractures. He approaches treatment from a patient-centered perspective. Some injuries can be treated conservatively, through casts. Other injuries are treated surgically. Scruggs performs surgeries at UMC. Medical and surgical foot care includes problems that many people do not see as important, but that are. Scruggs even consults with those who wish to choose the right kind of shoe to help prevent foot problems. People with planar warts and fungal nails are also treated. “People think that removing a bunion is a cosmetic procedure, but this is not so if someone’s nerve is entrapped.” Bunions can cause a lot of pain if untreated. “I became a podiatrist because for many people, especially in African-American com-
munities, there was not a high regard for foot care.” As a result, there are many amputations that could have been prevented. Scruggs added that foot problems often can be detected by stinky feet. The odor would “illuminate the room. People would think that it was okay for feet to have a smell.” He noted, “Certain people could not afford proper shoes. They wore other people’s shoes. The shoes would be too small.” Even today, lack of resources for proper shoes and for adequate foot care still exists for many people. Scruggs also sees people with various stages of diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and high blood pressure. “We open our doors to everyone.” Scruggs and his partners regularly see patients at the Whitman-Walker Center. Scruggs grew up in East St. Louis, where “the entire city is like Wards 7 and 8” of D.C. With his humble beginnings, Scruggs is in the perfect position to serve as a mentor to young folk from all backgrounds. In addition to being a practicing podiatrist, Scruggs is an educator. “I believe in education. Education is key. I was a teacher before I attended medical school. We need to cultivate our young people.” Scruggs wants young people to know that podiatry is a great career choice if you care about people. Podiatric care treats the whole body. “People think we are foot doctors. While we specifically treat the foot and ankle, podiatrists are often the first physicians to recognize that a person has diabetes or other chronic diseases. When I have a suspicion, I refer that person to the specialist or to their primary care physician.” Scruggs noted, “If your feet hurt, your whole body hurts.” One of his elderly patients stated, “You walk in tipping and walk out skipping.”
Open Year round 6:30am to 6:00pm Ages 2 to 4 plus School age Developmentally Appropriate Programs Toilet Training • Certified Educators Hot Balanced Meals • Educational Field Trips Tuition Based on Income Two Locations 4021 Minnesota Ave NE Washington DC 20019
1105 50th St., NE Washington DC 20019
202-397-1170
202-397-8754
Contact Dr. Scruggs Dr. Scruggs has a growing podiatric practice at 1328 Southern Avenue, S.E. He accepts patients through a variety of insurance mechanisms. You can reach Dr. Scruggs at 202-5061001 (http://footprintpodiatry.org/). B. Michelle Harris, PhD, MPH, RD, is Assistant Professor at the University of the District of Columbia. Her focus is public and community health through education, information, and research. Contact her at bharris@udc.edu. Visit the UDC website at www.udc.edu. ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 39
KIDS & FAMILY
Fort Dupont Ice Arena Summer Camp Photo: Courtesy of Friends of Fort Dupont Ice Arena
Fort Dupont Ice Arena Summer Skating Camps Summer Skating School, July 5-8 and July 1115, 9:00 AM-noon. Beginner through intermediate levels; ages first through sixth grade in the fall, 2011. Lessons include off-ice fitness class, group skating lessons, and supervised practice. Figure Skating Camp, July 5-8 and July 11-15, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM. For ages first through 12th grade in fall, 2011. Best suited for USFS Basic 68/Pre-Preliminary through Novice Moves in the Field or equivalent. Will work on jumps, spins, MIF, Dance, Synchronized Skating, Artistry and Choreography. The camp includes on and off-ice classes from highly-qualified coaches. Register early as camps fill quickly! Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. SE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org
Notebook by Kathleen Donner
2011 White House Easter Egg Roll Ticket Lottery This year’s White House Easter Egg Roll will be held on Monday, Apr. 25 with the theme of “Get Up and Go!” promoting health and wellness. The event will feature live music, sports courts, cooking stations, storytelling and, of course, Easter egg rolling. All of the activities will encourage children to lead healthy and active lives and follow the First Lady’s ‘Let’s Move!’ initiative, a national campaign to combat childhood obesity. The White House will open its South Lawn for children aged 12 years and younger and their families. White House Easter Egg Roll tickets will be distributed through an online lottery system, allowing guests from across the United States to participate in a tradition that dates back to 1878. The lottery will open for entries on Mar. 10, 12:01AM and close on Mar. 13, 11:59 PM. Tickets are free of charge and are non transferable. Full ticketing details can be found at whitehouse.gov/eastereggroll or 202-456-7041.
Green Thumb Day and Beautification Day at Benning Park Recreation Center On Thursday, Mar. 17, 5:30-7:00 PM, each child (age 9-13) will paint a flower pot, put soil and seeds in it and take care of it. On Sunday, Mar. 20, 1:00-3:00 PM, children (ages 9-13) will plant flowers in front of facility in the flower beds and clean up around the building. For more information, call Woody Ward at 202-341-6765. Benning Park Recreation Center, 5100 Southern Ave. SE. dpr.dc.gov
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Friendship Collegiate Academy Posse Scholarship Winners Five students from Friendship Collegiate Academy Public Charter High School are newly named recipients of Posse Scholarships, a four-year full-tuition prize worth up to $140,000 per student over the course of their undergraduate education. This year’s award winners are heading to the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Bucknell and Pepperdine Universities and Lafayette College—three with grade point averages of 3.98. A further student graduating this year is headed to Columbia with a 4.1 GPA. friendshipschools.org
Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative Annual Business Meeting and Family Community Conference On Saturday, Apr. 9, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM, at A. Kiger Savoy Elementary School, 2400 Shannon Pl. SE. Are you looking for something to do with the whole family? Families, children, adults, teens and professionals are all welcome. fsfsc.org
Saturday Tutoring at Deanwood Library The Center for Social Justice Research, Teaching and Service at Georgetown University is offering tutoring through the DC Reads program this academic year. This program provides one-on-one literacy tutoring to children in elementary school. The tutor-
| MARCH 2011
ing is from 10:30 AM-12:30 PM at the Deanwood Recreation Center Library on Saturdays. For more information, contact Nathanial S. Roloff, DC Reads Director, 202-687-0821.
Teen Night Out at Arundel Mills Mall On Saturday, Mar. 26, 5:00-11:00 PM, kids (ages 12-18) will enjoy an evening of movies, shopping, and dining at Arundel Mills Mall. Transportation leaves from Marvin Gaye/Watts Recreation Center, 6201 Banks Pl. NE For more information, call Duwayne Glover at 202/727-5432. dpr.dc.gov
Marine Corps Marathon Healthy Kids Fun Run Registration Open The annual Marine Corps Marathon Healthy Kids Fun Run will be held on Saturday, Oct. 29 in the Pentagon North Parking Lot. Children ages 512 can participate in the one-mile just-for-fun event. All participants receive a t-shirt, medal and snacks at the finish line. $5. Online registration opens Mar. 9. marinemarathon.com
UPO Seeking High School Applicants for $10,000 Scholarships The United Planning Organization’s Joseph A. Beavers Scholarship Program is recruiting 2011 Joseph A. Beavers Scholarship applicants. Scholarships are $10,000 and are intended for students who have overcome social adversities in pursuit of their life
OPEN HOUSE March 5th (10-11:30) March 16th (5-6:30)
ABOUT US: •
Founded in the fall of 1999
•
Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
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3 year old Pre-K– Grade 5
•
Independently run with a strong Board of Trustees
•
Recognized by US Department of Education as Outstanding Charter School
•
Challenging Curriculum
•
Exciting Creative Arts and Technology Program
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Positive school culture
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Open to all DC Residents
New Enrollment for 3 & 4 year-olds: March 4th New Enrollment (all other grades) March 14th – April 15th
5300 Blaine Street, NE Washington, DC 20019 202-398-6811
Please visit us at www.artstechacademy.org
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 41
KIDS & FAMILY goals. Applications must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM, Monday, Mar. 21. For an application and additional information, contact Ms. La Shawn Reeder at 202-583-8664 or by email at Lreeder@upo.org.
Kite Flying at Ridge Road Recreation Center On Wednesday, Mar. 30, 4:00-6:00 PM, kids will build kites and then engage in a kite flying contest. Appropriate for all ages. For more information, call Sonny Hicks at 202-645-0502. Ridge Road Recreation Center, 800 Ridge Rd. SE. dpr.dc.gov
Fight For Children Launches Ready to Learn DC Fight For Children, whose mission is to ensure that low-income children in DC receive a great education, has launched Ready to Learn DC, a multifaceted initiative aimed at ensuring school readiness among DC’s youngest residents. Through a variety of programs and partnerships, Ready to Learn DC will increase the number of high-quality, early childhood education programs, while helping parents better understand the attributes of a quality preschool and how to choose the school best suited for their child. The major components of Ready to Learn DC includes a website (readytolearndc.org) and a free video to educate parents about the importance of a quality early childhood education, how to chose and enroll in a preschool, and how to stay engaged in their children’s education. The video will be distributed widely in DC’s Wards 7 and 8 and is currently available on the Ready to Learn website. Fight For Children has committed $200,000 over two years to the Children’s National Medical Cemter. The two organizations are collaborating on a multi-year pilot program to help reduce and prevent obesity in three and four-year old children from the Kenilworth-Parkside neighborhood in Ward 7. CNMC will work with teachers, care providers and over two dozen parents in a comprehensive program for prevention and treatment of childhood obesity. Through the Ready to Learn program, Fight For Children will make additional grants in 2011 to enhance and grow the quality of early childhood education in DC. The majority of these grants will be made to organizations working in Wards 7 and 8. fightforchildren.org
Open House for the Inspired Teaching Demonstration School Center for Inspired Teaching is opening a charter school. Opening in August 2011, the Inspired Teaching Demonstration School will prove that when every classroom has an Inspired Teacher, students can reach their full intellectual and creative potential. The school will focus on developing students’ and teachers’ intellect, imagination, inquiry, and integrity. As a “demonstration” school, the Inspired Teaching Demonstration School will be a training ground for the country’s best teachers, demonstrating that excellence in academics must include hands-on learning, creative play, art, music, and rigor. At the Inspired Teach42 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
ing School, every classroom will have two teachers, a Master Teacher, and a fellow in residence, so the teacher to student ratio will be as low as 1:10. The school will open with pre-school (age 3) through third grade, and grow to include through 8th grade. The open house is on Mar. 26, 10:30 AM-noon. Center for Inspired Teaching, 1436 U St. NW, Suite 400. 202-462-1956. inspiredteachingschool.org
Pendragwn Youth Film Festival Call for Entries On May 15, the first Pendragwn Youth Film Festival will be held at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The festival will feature short films in 4 categories; documentary, music video, narrative and a super short (public service announcement). All films are created by students ages 11-18. It’s free and easy to enter. Submissions must be postmarked by Apr. 11. Get details on pendragwnyouthfilmfest.org.
Kid’s on Ice at Fort Dupont The Friends of Fort Dupont Ice Arena, Inc. is home to Kids On Ice®, a community ice skating program for children ages 5-18, offering free lessons with all equipment provided. KOI serves over 10,000 children annually. Now in its thirteenth year, the program has grown to include learn to skate, advanced figure skating, ice hockey, speed skating, and Schools and Camps Skate for Fitness. Instructors include qualified volunteers under the direction of professional figure skating, ice hockey and speed skating directors. 202-584-5007. fdia.org/KOI
Kites of Asia Family Day On Saturday, Mar. 19, 10:00 AM-3:00 PM, experience the beauty and artistry of kites from across Asia, with a special focus on India and Nepal. Explore how kites fly, watch amazing indoor kite-flying demonstrations, and speak with kite experts. Free. National Air and Space Museum. 202-633-2214. nasm.si.edu
Leprechauns Leap at the St. Patrick’s Day 8K Leprechauns Leap is a 1K noncompetitive fun run just for children held at the St. Patrick’s Day 9K run! The “leap” will start near the 8K start/finish line immediately after the 8K start. No registration is necessary. Medals to all finishers! Look for all the smiling, excited faces! Sunday, Mar. 13, 9:00 AM at Freedom Plaza. runwashington.com
White House Kitchen Garden Tours for DC Area School Groups Tours of the White House Kitchen Garden are available to elementary, middle or high school students on a first-come, first-served basis most Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 AM. Tours consist of a group of up to 30 students with a maximum of one chaperone for every seven students. At this time tours are limited to local area schools. Requests can be submitted up to
| MARCH 2011
three months in advance and no less than 30 days in advance. You are encouraged to submit your request as early as possible since a limited number of tours are available. Tours consist of a guided viewing and explanation of the White House Kitchen Garden and will not include a visit inside the White House. whitehouse.gov/about/tours_and_events/garden
Kingsbury Center Opens Pre-K Program for Hard to Place Four Year Olds The Kingsbury Center, the oldest nonpublic school educating learning disabled students in the Greater Washington area announced today the opening of the Kingsbury Early Education program (KEEP), its new preschool program for four year olds. The KEEP program is designed for the hard-to-place four year olds with mild to moderate developmental delays. The program will also consider accepting typically developing four year old peer role models. Students must have been four years old by Oct. 1, 2010. The classroom will have a maximum of ten students, and will offer both half day and full day programs, with snacks provided. KEEP students may participate in aftercare until 6:00 PM and may arrive as early as 7:30 AM. Tuition will be prorated for this school year, based on $7,500 for half days and $15,000 for full day programs for the entire school year. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Eden Santa Cruz at 202-722-5555 x 2422 or esantacruz@kingsbury.org.
Kids RunDC Monumental Mile On Saturday, Mar. 26, 10:30 AM, RFK Stadium Upper Lot 3. This is a mile run for kid’s, 6-13, in connection with the National Marathon. Register online at nationalmarathon.com. $10 fee includes race bib, t-shirt, medal, snacks and drink.
“How-to” Website Focuses On How To Navigate Fragile Parent-School Board Relations Catherine Lorenze, a respected parent advocate in the nation’s 11th largest school district, is sharing her expertise about lobbying school boards and superintendents with parents nationwide in a new website and blog at RedAppleMom.com and RedAppleMom.wordpress.com. RedAppleMom.com provides a roadmap on how to mobilize with other parents and education stakeholders. Ms. Lorenze details the lobbying and communications skills that work for ultimately moving School Board and public opinion in favor of change.
DC Child Support Service Mobile Van In an effort to strengthen community awareness and involvement, the Child Support Services Division will take its services to the street in a new outreach mobile van. The van will provide paternity establishment and child support services to customers in District neighborhoods instead of requiring
customers to travel to the child support office at Judiciary Square in Northwest DC. The van will be scheduled at area supermarkets, as well as community collaboratives, health clinics, schools, churches, hospitals, community organizations and District agencies. To request the outreach van at your location, please contact the Child Support Services Division at 202-724-2131 for assistance. csed.dc.gov
White House Internships The White House Internship Program provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable professional experience and build leadership skills. This hands-on program is designed to mentor and cultivate today’s young leaders, strengthen their understanding of the Executive Office and prepare them for future public service opportunities. For application details, visit whitehouse.gov/about/internships/apply. The application for the Fall 2011 White House Internship can be found at whitehouse.gov/about/internships/apply/application. It will be posted until Mar. 13.
Investigate: David Smith at the National Gallery of Art Join an elephant on a humorous journey to find his missing half. Discover the sculpture of David Smith, and then build a sculpture with wood and metal. Free. Sundays, March 13 and 20 at 11:30, 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30. East Building, Ground Level. 202-737-4215. nga.gov
DC Area’s Summer 2011 Rock Music Camps Camp Jam, the nation’s premier provider of rock music camps and educational rock ‘n’ roll music programs, is now accepting registrations for its Summer 2011 camp series. Students rehearse, record, and perform like rock stars during curriculum-based day camp programs. Camp Jam DC Area will be held at: St. Andrews Episcopal School, 8804 Postoak Rd., Potomac, MD. 800-513-0930. campjam.com ●
“Exceptional Education for Exceptional Students!”
Now Enrolling Grades 6-12 Call 202-547-1028 today! to schedule an interview and tour of the school. 1375 E Street NE Washington DC 20002 www.optionsschool.org
Free Preschool Enrolling for 2011-2012 Bridges is a small, public preschool and pre-kindergarten program for children 3-5 years old. Program Features: • School Day 8:00am-3:00pm, Before Care 8:00-8:30am, After Care 3:00-6:00pm. • Small classroom size and well trained staff. • Individual planning for each student. • Thematic and project-based curriculum. Now accepting Applications for the 2011-2012 school year. Applications accepted January 1, 2011 – April 15, 2011. Applications received after April 15 will be placed on our waiting list. Applications are available at the school or on our website, www.bridgespcs.org. OPEN HOUSE / INFORMATION SESSIONS AT THE SCHOOL ON THE FOLLOWING THURSDAYS: • Thursday, April 7, 2011 from 9:30-10:30 am
Bridges Public Charter School 1250 Taylor St. NW Washington, DC 20011
p. 202 545-0515 f. 202 545-0517 www.bridgespcs.org
Bridges Public Charter School is free and open to all DC residents. Tuition paid by non-residents.
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 43
Summer Camp Fun! There is a camp for every interest, schedule and pleasure
Capitol Hill Martial Arts+ Fitness Summer Camp
Courtesy of Department of Parks and Recreation
DPR Summer Camp Registration Opens The DC Department of Parks and Recreation has opened Summer Camp registration. Registration can be completed online or in-person at the Summer Camp Office, 1480 Girard St. NW. Additionally, DPR is holding a pre-qualification period for DC residents who qualify for the reduced rate fees. Qualification requirements and the reduced rate application are available at summercamps. dc.gov. Summer Camp Office number is 202-671-0372.
Capitol Hill Arts Workshop Camp Grab your passport and join the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW) for its summer Island Arts Adventure Camps from June 20 to August 12, 2011. Each two-week camp will focus on the arts and culture of a particular island including Indonesia, Crete, Canary Islands, and Hawaii. Camps are for students ages five to thirteen (additional oneweek Jr. Arts Adventure Camps are available for students ages four and five). For a fullday experience, CHAW hosts afternoon specialty camps. Recreation Camp option with trips to the swimming pool, parks, museums, local attractions, and more. Afternoon Specialty Camps take an in-depth look at artistic mediums and include two different Musical Theater Camps, Photography Camp, Rock n’ Roll Camp, Ceramics Camp (full), and Visual Arts Camp. Tuition assistance and payment plans are available. For more info, visit www.chaw.org or call 202-547-6839. 44 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
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The Capitol Hill MAFA summer camp is a fun, safe, and exciting way for your child to spend the summer. The age range is from 4 to 13 years old. The students not only learn martial arts but are also engaged in educational activities. We strive to help develop positive thinking skills and self-esteem within the children. MAFA Campers will participate in weekly field trips such as Day at the Park with Washington Nationals, Outdoor Plays and Movies, Six Flags America, Local Martial Arts Tournaments and much more. MAFA Campers will also get a chance to increase martial arts developement and technique with the ability to train up to 3x a day! Hours 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. 1443 D St. SE, DC 20003; 202-455-4662.
Casey Trees Summer Crew Casey Trees’ Summer Crew is a high school jobs program where students care for the District’s trees for eight weeks. The 2011 session runs June 20-August 12. Students earn $9 an hour and work 35-hours a week, M-F; gain employment skills; and get exposure to “green” careers. Eligibility requirements: Be 16+ years of age; enrolled in or a recent graduate of a DC-area high school; willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions; and a team player. No experience necessary. For information and to apply, visit www.caseytrees.org/education. Applications are due May 1.
DC Youth Orchestra No one does music classes better than DCYOP!! We’ve been teaching music for 50 years and it’s time for CAMP at DCYOP! Band Camp – String Camp, All day, two-week session. Free t-shirt for Camp participants! Indoor performance on July 3 – Outdoor performance in the Capitol Hill Fourth of July celebration/parade on July 4! DCYOP is also offering beginning level classes for students age 8 and above. Early Registration discount available through May 1st. Please contact us at info@ dcyop.org or 202-698-0123 with any questions. Check out our website at www.dcyop.org for more details about summer activities!! ●
Preparation for College... and for Life
Accepting Applications for Pre-K – Grade 10 for 2011-12 School Year WE’VE MOVED to a newly-renovated, state-of-the-art, high-tech school at 1800 Perry Street NE, Washington, DC 20018! A • • • • •
Hyde Education Emphasizes: The discovery of one’s deeper potential Courage, Integrity, Concern, Curiosity and Leadership A self-confidence and enthusiasm for life The importance of family A sense of community Admissions Info Sessions every Tuesday
Visit www.hydedc.org or call 202.529.4400 for dates and times
WE’RE NOT JUST A SCHOOL... WE’RE A COMMUNITY!
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 45
KIDS & FAMILY
Mundo Verde A Green and Bilingual School Option by L. Denise Jackson
LEFT: Mundo Verde Board Members (from left) Katherine Roboff, Executive Director Kristin Scotchmer, Bob Wittig and Sara Elliott. BOTTOM: Executive Director Kristin Scotchmer Photo courtesy Sara Elliot
The instruction will be through expeditionary learning, which prepares students to address real world situations that require critical thinking and interdisciplinary solutions-driven aptitude. All tasks will be assigned as hands-on project-based tasks. Along with the standard subjects of math, science, social studies, and two hour blocks of music or performing, visual or fine arts and gym each day, sustainability will be a part of the core curriculum. Children will learn to use their natural sense of adventure and wonder about the world through active learning. Expeditions will be a regular component of learning via fieldwork, using local resources, and ending with a presentation of the student’s findings. The expeditions are designed to foster leadership, public speaking, and structure. An 11-month school year is being developed from August 2 through June 30 with a robust summer program and applications are due Tuesday, March 22, 2011.
Children Make Up the Community
E
ducation is the foundation of our lives. Learning how to walk, how to talk, how to perform our jobs, enhance our love of the arts into unmatched talents, how to start and run a successful business, how to learn, and anything we can dream of to build a life that we will be happy living. And with living sustainably being the new paradigm to continue human existence on earth, green schools should be the norm rather than the atypical path to educate our children. And finally, Washington, DC will soon have its very first, tuition-free, green school. But there is more, it is bilingual, too! It is called Mundo Verde, which means Green World.
I attended an information session on February 16 at the LEED certified Northwest One Library, which
is a new beautiful sustainable and environmentally friendly library in the District. It was evident from the passion exuded that this school is one that is looking to develop the best sustainable stewards and bilingual citizens of the next generation and they are starting early in pre-kindergarten to kindergarten (ages 3-5 years old).Their plan is to add a grade each year until they reach 8th grade. I found it rather exciting. Mundo Verde has the support, access, and advisory of local and national leaders, sustainability experts, and authorities in the expeditionary and linguistics educational fields. It has been 3 years in the making to create an interactive learning environment that supports social and emotional growth and provides for differentiated instruction in small groups allowing children to learn at their own speed.
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| MARCH 2011
Introducing Mundo Verde
Classroom Environment and Learning The school community is developing an intentionally diverse community. The daily schedule is balanced and full of variety. Children will learn – reading and writing – half of their day in English and the other in Spanish with teachers that speak fluently in both of those languages. Dual language instruction promotes enhanced reading aptitude and writing skills. Mundo Verde is exploring multi-age classes to encourage natural developmental learning to meet children where they are, whether gifted or special needs. There will be reading and language specialists as well as specialists for special education. There will be a Lead Teacher and a Teaching Fellow teacher that will be in training for certification. The 3-year old students will have three teachers per class.
Diverse children will make up this school which will be admitted on a lottery system. The lottery is on April 9, 2011. As of February 16, they received 300 applications and the make-up is lacking African American and Latino applications. While the office is on the H Street, NE corridor, the school will be located at 2001 S Street, NW near Florida and Connecticut Avenues for the first year. The facilities committee has already begun to identify locations for Mundo Verde’s permanent site. When I spoke with Lynsey Wood Jeffries, Executive Director, at the conclusion of the session, she said they really would like to have more applications from the African American and Latino communities. In the information session, it was revealed that there are only approximately 20 percent Spanish-speaking students and 80 percent English students. They were hoping to have more of a 50/50 balance. The inclusion of more minority cultures would be an asset to the school’s diversity and students’ appreciation of the world they will enter after school.
Chess Challenge DC Sustainable Resources Before and after care is also available for the hours of 7:30 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. During the after care there will be tutoring available. Once per week the school closes at 1 pm for teachers’ professional development days. Some creative programs are planned for students to expand their sustainable knowledge.
“Encouraging Success with Every Move.” article & photos by Jamaal Abdul-Alim
The Futures of Green Schools The future of green schools is actually a reality. In last October there was a Green Schools National Conference (www.greenschoolsnationalconference.org) held in Minneapolis that covered everything from teaching certification and learning programs to green products and furniture to ecoliteracy to green parents to natural and organic menus. It also included a Green Schools National Youth Summit. There is also Sustainable Schools, LLC (www.sustainschools.org) who helps schools and colleges build sustainable and environmental literacy by integrating that knowledge into the planning, instruction, and overall mission of the institutions operations and practices. Educational institutions right here in Washington, DC, such as American University have explored and are using this framework. Agencies and organizations such as the U.S. Partnership for Education for Sustainable Development, Green Schools Alliance, and Cloud Institute for Sustainability Education are partnering to ensure that our children have the best opportunity to be environmental stewards and be an important part of future solutions for our sustainability. To find out more about this school, you can go to www.mundoverdepcs.org as they have an upcoming information session on March 12. L. Denise Jackson, founder of The Professional Green Network, is an author, speaker, and sustainability consultant. ●
TOP to BOTTOM 1. Rashid Nelson,13, an 8th grade student at Paul Public Charter School and Higher Achievement Program (right) and Bockman Byrne-Ray, 10, a 5th grade student at Stuart Hobson Middle School (left) vie for 2nd place at the Feb. 26th Chess Challenge in DC Tournament. 2. Clarence Diggs, 13, from StuartHobson Middle School, considers his next move in a blitz round to determine if he will capture one of the top spots in the tournament.
F
acing a series of attacks from his opponent, 13year-old Clarence Dicks whisked his king safely behind two pawns that would prevent any future threats to his reign. “You can’t check me no more,” Dicks declared at one of the dozens of chessboards that had been set up inside the cafeteria at the Caesar Chavez Public Charter School in Southeast, where close to 80 youths from more than a dozen D.C. schools gathered to participate in a chess tournament in which they were likened to “mental gladiators.” The tournament -- held during the last weekend of February -- was conducted by Chess Challenge in D.C., a three-year-old out-of-school
program that uses the game of chess to develop literacy and leadership among youths. Based on scenes that unfolded at the tournament, it was evident that the program is helping young people excel in the game of chess, as well as academically and socially. For instance, resisting his opponent’s suggestion to promote his pawn into a queen that would have been immediately captured without consequence, Clarence correctly guarded the pawn so that the pawn could get promoted to queen that could only be captured at a cost. When the tournament director declared the game over due to time constraints, Clarence was declared victor because of the overwhelm-
ing material he had on the board: A queen and a bishop worth 12 points as opposed to his opponent’s rook and a pawn, worth half that amount. But rather than gloat over his victory, Clarence credited educators at his school, Stuart-Hobson Middle School, and his Chess Challenge in D.C. coach, Truth Hall, aka “Mr. Truth,” with helping him to elevate his game. “I probably wouldn’t be where I am without my school,” Clarence said in reference to Stuart-Hobson, one of the many schools that hosts the Chess Challenge in D.C. program. Clarence also gave props to his opponent, Alexander Mial, 11, of Tech Prep Academy. “He forced me to work the hardest I ever did,” Clarence said of Alexander. “All of my opponents did. I’m just glad to be here.” Clarence’s aunt, Tonia Dansby, credited Chess Challenge with helping Clarence become more competitive. “I think every time he competes, he learns more,” Dansby said. “If his challenger does a move, he’ll take it to his coach” to review it to see what could have been done better. “It’s a learning process,” Dansby added. “I think it’s wonderful to see so many young people playing the game.” Clarence ended up coming in fourth place in the tournament after losing on time -- but by no means material -- in an intense blitz-off round to which he and several other youths tied for the top spots had advanced. Tournament Director and Chess Challenge in D.C. Coach Charlie Edelman commended all of the youths who participated in the tournament irrespective of how many games they won. Though the tall green and gold trophies for the tournament went only to the top winners, all of the contestants got ribbons or medallions to commemorate their participation. “Regardless of the score, you’re all mental gladiators,” Edelman said as he handed out prizes. Each participant wore a black Chess Challenge t-shirt emblazoned with a motto that captured the essence of the tournament event. In white letters on the back, the shirts said: “Encouraging Success with Every Move.” ●
CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 47
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CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 49
THE NOSE
Where Are My Perks? by anonymous
I
n The Nose’s rapidly declining profession, announcements of retrenchments seem to dominate the daily news. While the future of print journalism remains ‘To Be Determined,’ The Nose recently engaged his Editor in that most painful of discussions -- the provision of just compensation. Money discussions are truly the bane of any writer’s existence. Yet, as Washington’s self-proclaimed, preeminent purveyor of political parody, The Nose has an obligation to uphold standards for his fellow scribblers. Is there enough money on the entire planet to compensate The Nose for the hours he spends watching Phil ‘The Nitpicker’ Mendelson or David ‘The Bean Counter’ Catania arguing over the arcana of District social programs? Dear Readers, would you sit quietly in your armchairs popping bonbons while Jack ‘The Scrooge’ Evans, droned on in defense of the wallets of the poor, abused wealthy residents of Ward 2, standing, much as a Spartan at Thermopylae, against the predatory, barbaric hordes of tax enthusiasts led by the terrible troika: Jim ‘The Bow Tie’ Graham, Michael ‘Taxes Are for Little People’ Brown or Tommy ‘The Cyclist’ Wells? Could you, would you, not turn the channel as Marion ‘Forgot to File’ Barry philosophizes over fiscal responsibility? I knew you could. Dear Readers, the eyestrain generated by countless hours of reading thousands of pages of monotonous online municipal documents has forced The Nose to correct his increasingly myopic vision with coke bottle lenses. Now, when picking up a cute guy at a crowded bar The Nose can barely make out whether or not his potential partner’s face looks like a pock-marked barn door. Pity the predicament of this poor pundit. Not surprisingly, in these grim economic times, The Nose’s Editor refused, unlike many local developers, to be shaken down for more cash. What is a poor scribbler to do? Do not despair, Dear Readers. The answer to The Nose’s quandary lies in the example of his Esteemed Excellency, Herr Chair Kwame “Black on Black” Brown. In a word, ‘Perks!’
50 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE
| MARCH 2011
Now, The Nose’s unctuous Editor already propitiates him with the occasional gift of a pencil, notebook or press pass. It is time now to take a stand. Be it known, Dear Readers, that such offerings will no longer be considered sufficient. They are an insult to a satirist of The Nose’s caliber. The Nose demands the ultimate in vehicular perks, a gold plated, fully loaded, leather encased Segway. No, The Nose will not settle for a two-wheeled vehicle built for hoi polloi. He must have the latest, greatest gadget with all the bells and whistles. Here are his MINIMUM requirements: • A Complete Navigation System: The Nose, a bit directionally challenged, requires detailed audio instruction for his travels around this fair metropolis. • An Integrated, Video Backup Camera: This is an absolutely, necessary safety feature that will allow The Nose to avoid neck strain. • Bluetooth Connectivity: To allow The Nose to conduct interviews, text and sort his email, all while whizzing through city traffic, the Segway must be able to connect to his many I-devices. • High End Entertainment: Weighed down by the cynicism and ennui endemic to his profession, The Nose requires either the distraction of his favorite Aretha Franklin tunes played at full thumping volume or the emotional catharsis of ‘Broke Back Mountain’ cued up on demand. Somewhat surprisingly, The Nose’s Editor agreed to his demand for a vehicular perk. Apparently, the dealership had good lease rates that allowed for a significant tax write-off. Unfortunately, in the end, The Nose had to decline. Decorated in steel gray, the procured Segway did not meet a central requirement: black-on-black leather hand grips with leather tassels. After all, as every fabulous, well dressed man knows, one’s tassels should always match one’s loafers. Have a comment for The Nose? Email thenose@hillrag.com. ●
COMING THIS SPRING! Featuring: The Finest Selection of Oysters & Chops on The Hill A Fifty-Foot Long Marble Oyster Bar Twenty-Four Wines by the Glass Sixteen Fine Ales on Draft
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WACIF
Washington Area Community Investment Fund, Inc. WACIF helps small business owners succeed!
FREE Small Business Seminars and Technical Assistance Starting a Small Business – A Legal Perspective March 16 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Small Business Loan Day March 19 11:30am - 1:30pm
Business Taxes 101 New Laws and All you need to know about Business Taxes March 24 6:30pm - 8:30pm
For more information or to RSVP please call WACIF at 529-5505 or visit www.wacif.org Interpretation services and accommodations for persons with disabilities are available. Contact WACIF one week prior to event for any special assistance needs. Support for WACIF’s programs and services is provided by: DC Department of Housing and Economic Development; DC Department of Small and Local Business Development; Neighborhood Investment Fund, Government of the District of Columbia, Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development; Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development; U.S. Small Business Administration; The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation; American Bank; M&T Bank; TD Bank; The Wachovia Wells Fargo Foundation; D.C. Pro Bono Bar Program; and other corporate and individual donors and investors.