East of the River Magazine November 2014 by Capital Community News

NOVEMBER 2014

EAST of the RIVER MAGAZINE

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 3

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | November 2014 | CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

CALENDAR

08......... What’s on Washington 10......... East of the River Calendar

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 16......... The District Beat • by Andrew Lightman 18......... The Numbers • by Soumya Bhat and Jenny Reed 20......... Bulletin Board 25......... Louise Daniel Hutchinson • by John Muller 26......... What’s Going On at Marvin Gaye Park by Charnice A. Milton

28......... New Elevated Park: A Bridge to Anacostia Development • by Christina Sturdivant 30......... Our River: The Anacostia The River Whisperer • by Bill Matuszeski 32......... Rocketship Charter School to Launch in Randle Heights • by Charnice A. Milton 34......... Preventing Lead Poisoning in Children by Candace Y.A. Montague

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

36......... Black Mosaic Revisited • by Phil Hutinet 38......... In Your Kitchen • by Twyla Alston 40......... Gregg Deal and the Team that Can’t be Named by Anthony J Rivera

42......... The Future of Congress Heights • by Christina Sturdivant 44......... Urban Wear Boutique Opens in Anacostia • by John Muller 46......... Jazz Avenues • by Steve Monroe

REAL ESTATE

47......... Changing Hands • compiled by Don Denton

KIDS & FAMILY

48......... Kids & Family Notebook • by Kathleen Donner 54......... Boy Scout Improves Fort Stanton for Eagle Scout Project • by Charnice A. Milton

THE CLASSIFIEDS 56......... The Classifieds

CROSSWORD 58 ........ The Crossword

34 54 ON THE COVER:

DC Mayor-elect, Muriel Bowser. Photo: Andrew Lightman

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 5

Hill Rag • Mid City DC • East Of The River • Fagon Community Guides Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 capitalcommunitynews.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissaashabranner@hillrag.com

Look for Next Issue of East of the River on December 13 Online Daily, Printed Monthly | www.eastoftheriverdcnews.com

Editorial Staff Managing Editor: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com CFO & Associate Editor: Maria Carolina Lopez • carolina@hillrag.com School Notes Editor: Susan Braun Johnson • schools@hillrag.com Kids & Family Notebook Editor: Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Arts, Dining & Entertainment Art: Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com Dining: Emily Clark • clapol47@gmail.com Celeste McCall • celeste@us.net Hit the City: Joylyn Hopkins • joylyn@joylynhopkins.com Literature: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu Movies: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net Music: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Stephen Monroe • samonroe2004@yahoo.com Retail Therapy: Scott Fazzini • scott.fazzini@gmail.com Theater: Barbara Wells • barchardwells@aol.com The Wine Guys: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com Calendar & Bulletin Board Calendar Editor: Kathleen Donner • calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com General Assignment Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com Martin Austermuhle • martin.austermuhle@gmail.com Maggy Baccinelli • mbaccinelli@gmail.com Elise Bernard • elise.bernard@gmail.com Stephanie Deutsch • scd@his.com Michelle Phipps-Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Damian Fagon • damianfagon@gmail.com Gwyn Jones • gwynjones@aol.com Stephen Lilienthal - stephen_lilienthal@yahoo.com Charnice Milton • charnicem@hotmail.com John H. Muller • jmuller.washingtonsyndicate@gmail.com Alice Ollstein • alice.ollstein@gmail.com Will Rich • will.janks@gmail.com Heather Schoell • schoell@verizon.net Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Michael G. Stevens • michael@capitolriverfront.org Peter J. Waldron • peter@hillrag.com Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com Jazzy Wright • wright.jazzy@gmail.com Pleasant Mann • pmann1995@gmail.com Meghan Markey • meghanmarkey@gmail.com Ellen Boomer • emboomer@gmail.com Elena Burger • elena96b@gmail.com Jonathan Neeley • neeley87@gmail.com

BEAUTY, Health& Fitness Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW • www.quietwaterscenter.com quiet_waters_center@yahoo.com Mariessa Terrell • mterrell@sbclawgroup.com Candace Y.A. Montague • writeoncm@gmail.com Jazelle Hunt • jazelle.hunt@gmail.com KIDS & FAMILY Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com Society & Events Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com Homes & Gardens Rindy O’Brien • rindyob@mac.com Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Judith Capen • judith.capen@architravepc.com HomeStyle: Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com COMMENTARY Ethelbert Miller • emiller698@aol.com The Nose • thenose@hillrag.com Production/Graphic/web Design Art Director: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Designer: Kyungmin Lee • lee@hillrag.com Web Master: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com Advertising & Sales Account Executive: Kira Means, 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com Classified Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez, 202.543.8300 X12 • carolina@hillrag.com Billing: Sara Walder, 202.400.3511 • Sara@hillrag.com Distribution Distribution Manager: Andrew Lightman Distributors: MediaPoint, LLC Distribution Information: distribution@hillrag.com Deadlines & CONTACTS Advertising: sales@hillrag.com Display Ads: 15th of each month Classified Ads: 10th of each month Editorial: 15th of each month; submissions@hillrag.com Bulletin Board & Calendar: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

We welcome suggestions for stories. Send queries to andrew@hillrag.com. We are also interested in your views on community issues which are published in the Last Word. Please limit your comments to 250 words. Letters may be edited for space. Please include your name, address and phone number. Send Last Word submissions to editorial@hilllrag.com. For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com.

6 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

How to Open a Small Business in DC Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2014 Time: 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm Location: 1100 4th Street SW, 2nd Floor (Room E-200), Washington, D.C. 20024

DCRA FREE SEMINARS

Money Smart for Small Business - Banking Services and Insurance Date: Thursday, November 6, 2014 Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Location: 1100 4th Street SW 4th Floor (E-4302), Washington, D.C. 20024 To Register: http://goo.gl/rRFpQI

To Register: http://goo.gl/bqYi2R

TOGETHER, Africa’s Markets of Opportunity: Small Business Training Workshops on Exporting to Africa Date: Thursday, November 13, 2014 Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Location: 1100 4th Street SW, 4th Floor (Room E-4302), Washington, D.C. 20024

We Can Achieve Your Business Goals

Money Smart for Small Business Organizational Types and Tax Planning Date: Thursday, November 20, 2014 Time: 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm Location: 1100 4th Street SW 4th Floor (E-4302), Washington, D.C. 20024 To Register: http://goo.gl/mQ9i6u

To Register: http://goo.gl/ickmXF

For further information, please contact: Jacqueline Noisette (202) 442-8170 jacqueline.noisette@dc.gov • Claudia Herrera (202) 442-8055 claudia.herrera@dc.gov • Joy Douglas (202) 442-8690 joy.douglas@dc.gov EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 7

What to do on Thanksgiving Day So you’re cooking for 35 and your spouse, kids, great uncles and house guests are driving you nuts. Here are some ways to get them out of the house and out of your hair. (1) Season’s Greenings at the Botanic Garden opens today. It’s a great way to get everyone in the holiday spirit. (2) All of the Smithsonian Mall museums are open as is the zoo. (3) You can tour the monuments and memorials--parking should be easy but the Washington Monument is closed. (4) Skate or just watch the skaters at the NGA Sculpture Garden Ice Rink from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Skating at the Sculpture is 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. Photo: Courtesy of the National Gallery of Art

Veterans Day Observance at The Wall The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund’s annual Veterans Day ceremony will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 11 at 1 p.m. in front of The Wall at what is probably Washington’s most powerful war memorial. “Celebrating Service” is the theme of this year’s ceremony, which will also mark the 30th anniversary of the Three Servicemen Statue. Please arrive early for best viewing. 202-393-0090. vvmf.org

Photo: Courtesy of Bill Petros and VVMF

8 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

christMas concert For charity at the national shrine On Friday, Dec. 5, the National Shrine will host the annual Christmas Concert for Charity featuring the voices and sounds of the Basilica Choir and the Catholic University of America Choir and Orchestra--exquisite music in a remarkable setting. The concert is at 7:30 p.m. but the bells in the bell tower begin earlier. The Basilica fills up early but there are usually seats up front, on the sides, and there’s plenty of free parking. There will be a free will offering to benefit a charity. National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202-526-8300. nationalshrine.com

Basilica Choir performs at the annual Christmas Concert for Charity. Photo: Ed Pfueller, Catholic University of America

PerForM as a sUPernUMerary With Washington national oPera A supernumerary (or super for short) is, “a person who appears in an opera without speaking lines, or as part of a crowd; walk-on; extra.” You might carry a spear or sword, break up fights as guards, strut around the stage as a courtesan, or take someone to their “death” as an executioner. The Washington National Opera encourages people of all ages and walks of life to apply; however, men between the ages of 18-50 are the most needed. The time commitment varies per opera and rehearsals are generally nights and weekends. Supers are paid a small stipend and receive two dress rehearsal passes for the show in which they appear. Find the application and details at kennedy-center.org/wno/mto/Opportunities.

Anna Bolena 2012--(l-r) supernumerary Josie Williams plays the pivotal role of the young Princess (soon to be Queen) Elizabeth, caught in a tug of war between Henry VIII (Oren Gradus) and Anne Boleyn (Sondra Radvanovsky) Photo: Courtesy of the Washington National Opera

Magna carta: MUse and Mentor at the library oF congress On Nov. 6, the Library of Congress will open the exhibition “Magna Carta: Muse and Mentor” to celebrate the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta and to illustrate the great charter’s influence on laws and liberties throughout the centuries. The centerpiece of the 10-week exhibition will be Magna Carta on loan from Lincoln Cathedral in England, one of only four surviving copies issued in 1215. The rare document and 76 items drawn from the collections at the Library of Congress will be on display through Jan. 19, on the second level of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. SE. The exhibition is free and open to the public from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. loc.gov

The Lincoln Cathedral Magna Carta, 1215. Photo: Courtesy of Lincoln Cathedral

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 9

CALENDAR

VETERANS HONORED

Veterans Day 10K & Tidal Basin Walk. Nov. 9, 8 AM. Honor America’s veterans with a run through West and East Potomac Parks along the Potomac River. Fast, flat course. Tshirts, refreshments, random prizes. Generous awards structure: 10 deep overall and 3 deep in 5 year age groups; top masters male & female. 301840-2042. runwashington.com/veterans10k Veterans Day Wreath Laying at Arlington. Nov. 11, 11 AM. President Obama will lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington. The public is invited to watch this ceremony and to listen to the speech that follows. There is standing room at the wreath laying and seating in the adjacent amphitheater for the speech. Get there early. The better the weather, the earlier attendees are encouraged to arrive. Leave umbrellas and backbacks at home. Parking and the ride to the ceremony site are free. arlingtoncemetery.mil

ray of high-quality gift items such as fine arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, photography, clothing, tasty treats, and hot beverages. Market at F St. NW, between 7th and 9th. downtownholidaymarket.com

The Nutcracker at THEARC

Nov 29-30. Set in Georgetown and replete with swirling snowflakes, cherry blossoms and historical characters, including George Washington as the heroic nutcracker, The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker has become a tradition for generations of family and friends to celebrate the holidays. There are discounted tickets for east of the river patrons. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org

City of Alexandria Tree Lighting Ceremony. Nov. 28, 7 PM. At this official kickoff to the holiday season, the mayor and Santa Claus will light the city tree in Market Square. Entertainment includes a visit from Santa, live performances, caroling and a community sing-along. Market Square, 301 King St., Alexandria, VA. visitalexandriava.com National Harbor Christmas Tree Lighting. Nov. 28, 5-7 PM. Waterfront Plaza, National Harbor, Maryland. The waterfront community will kick off the holiday season by lighting up the Sky with fireworks and a 65ft Christmas tree decorated with 20,000 lights. Sip some hot chocolate and enjoy storytelling, an ornament making workshop and holiday music. Zoolights. Nov. 28-Jan. 1, 5-9 PM nightly except Dec. 24, 25 and 31. Don’t miss a chance to meander through the Zoo when it is covered with thousands of sparkling lights, attend special keeper talks, and enjoy live entertainment. Free. National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. nationalzoo.si.edu

Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans. Nov. 11, 9 AM-4 PM. In honor of our nation’s veterans, Mount Vernon admits all active duty, former, or retired military personnel free of charge. 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA. mountvernon.org Recruit Military Veteran Job Fair. Nov. 11, 11 AM-3 PM. Special hiring event for veterans and military spouses. Georgetown’s School of Continuing Education, 640 Massachusetts Ave. NW. recruitmilitary.com

Christmas at Mount Vernon. Nov. 28-Jan. 6, 9 AM-4 PM. Holiday visitors will enjoy themed decorations, chocolate-making demonstrations, and 18th century dancing. George Washington’s Estate & Gardens, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway. $17/adult, $8/child, 5 and under free. 703-780-2000. mountvernon.org

Wreath Laying at World War II Memorial. Nov. 11, 9 AM. 17th St. between Constitution and Independence Aves. NW. 202-619-7222. wwiimemorial.com Veterans Day Observance at The Wall. Nov. 11, 1 PM. Vietnam Veterans Memorial. 202393-0090. vvmf.org Wreath Laying at Air Force Memorial. Nov. 11, 11 AM. Wreath laying ceremony and a twominute moment of silence will be observed to commemorate those members of the U.S. armed forces who were killed during war. Air Force Memorial is at One Air Force Memorial Drive in Arlington, VA. (14th St. Bridge into Virginia, merge onto Washington Blvd. and then Columbia Pike in the direction of the Navy Annex. Then follow signs.) airforcememorial.org

THANKSGIVING Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade. Nov. 22, 10 AM-noon. 50 foot balloons, floats and marching bands. Downtown Silver Spring on Georgia Avenue from Sligo to Silver Plaza. silverspringdowntown.com Sacred Circle Dancing: Offering Gratitude at the National Cathedral. Nov. 25, 6 PM. Join leaders Evi Beck and Judith Walton as everyone dances with gratitude and joy for the many things in our lives that sustain us. Free and open to the public. nationalcathedral.org Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger. Nov. 27, 8:30 AM, Kids’ One Mile Fun Run; 9 AM, 5K Run/Walk. Turkey Trot at Freedom Plaza (corner of 13th St. and Pennsylvania Ave. NW). soome.convio.net Small Business Saturday. Nov. 29. This day encourages people to shop at small businesses

10 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Mount Vernon by Candlelight. Nov. 28-Dec. 21 (Saturdays and Sundays except Dec. 20), 5-8 PM. Join “Mrs. Washington” as she hosts an enchanting evening of candlelight tours, fireside caroling, and festive treats. Timed tickets are $22 for adults and $15 for children 11 and under. George Washington’s Estate & Gardens, 3200 Mount Ver-

Every year Washington audiences delight at the dancing and music at our very own Nutcracker. Photo: Courtesy of The Washington Ballet

on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. americanexpress.com

Photo: Courtesy of C. Stanley Photography.

EARLY CHRISTMAS A Christmas Carol at Ford’s. Nov. 20-Jan. 1. Join the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future as they lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a journey of transformation and redemption. Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th St. NW. 202-347-4833. fordstheatre.org “Season’s Greenings” at the Botanic Garden. Thanksgiving Day through Jan. 4, 10 AM-5 PM (Tuesdays and Thursdays, open until 8 PM with live entertainment). Botanic Garden invites the public to remember that the best things in life are free--the fragrance of a freshly cut fir tree, the magic of holiday lights and sumptuous decorations, and the delight of a child discovering the make believe world of model trains. Free. 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov Downtown Holiday Market. Nov. 28-Dec. 23, noon-8 PM. More than 150 exhibitors and artisans (rotating on a weekly basis) selling an ar-

“Black Nativity” at Anacostia Playhouse

Dec 8-Jan 4. “Black Nativity” is the retelling of the Christmas story from an Afro-centric perspective, infused with rich gospel, blues, funk, jazz music and dance with griot style story telling from an ensemble cast. Anacostia Playhouse, 2020 Shannon Pl. SE. theateralliance.com

non Memorial Highway. 703-780-2000. mountvernon.org Union Station Christmas Tree Lighting. Dec. 3, 6 PM. The tree is a gift to the people of Washington, DC and is a symbol of friendship between the United States and Norway. Join the Norwegian Embassy and DC as the 8,000 lights on Washington’s official holiday tree are lit and enjoy live musical performances. unionstationdc.com Festival of Lights at Mormom Temple. Dec. 4-Jan. 1. Lights are on from sunset-11 PM. 9900 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD. 301-587-0144. dctemplelights.lds.org National (White House) Christmas Tree Lighting. Dec. 4, 5 PM. A lottery for the tickets was held Oct 17-20. After 8 PM, the area will be opened to the public. Live entertainment nightly. thenationaltree.org Handel’s Messiah at the National Cathedral. Dec. 5, 7:30 PM and Dec. 6, 4 PM. The Cathedral’s combined choirs, Baroque-period orchestra, and guest soloists perform this essential Christmas music experience under the direction of Canon Michael McCarthy. $29-$85. 202537-2228. nationalcathedral.org Torpedo Factory Art Center Holiday Open House. Dec. 5, 6:30-9 PM. Artists keep their studios open late. The Alexandria Choral Society perform seasonal favorites throughout the evening. Torpedo Factory Art Center, 105 N. Union St., Alexandria, VA. torpedofactory.org Holidays Through History Open House. Dec. 6, 4-8 PM. $5-$16. Dumbarton House, Anderson House, Woodrow Wilson House, and Tudor Place all offer a festive evening out, with décor, refreshments, and special live performances of holiday music at every site. tudorplace.org Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and Concert. Dec. 6, parade 11 AM-1 PM; massed band concert 1 PM. Parade route begins at the corner of Wilkes and South Saint Asaph Sts. in Old Town and ends at King and Royal Sts. Concert at King and Royal Sts. in front of City Hall at Market Square. Alexandria, VA. scottishchristmaswalk.com Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Dec. 6, 3-6 PM. Alexandria’s harbor lights up when more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront. Alexandria’s Historic Waterfront at the foot of Cameron St., Alexandria, VA. 703838-5005. visitalexandriava.com Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long. Dec. 6, 4 PM. “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band and members of local choirs and vocal groups perform. Free. wolftrap.org National Museum of the American Indian Native Art Market. Dec. 6-7, 10 AM-5:30 PM. The NMAI Art Market offers one of a kind, handmade, traditional and contemporary items directly from the artisans. More than 35 Native artists from North and South America will participate in this annual weekend market featuring a wide selection of items for EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 11

purchase including handmade jewelry, beadwork, pottery, prints and sculpture. Free. Fourth St. and Independence Ave. SW. 202-633-1000. nmai.si.edu Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Visit pickyourownchristmastree. org for farms and directions. Then follow the prompts.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Sheila Crider-Volume at Honﬂeur Gallery. Nov. 7-Dec. 19. Sheila Crider’s practice focuses on making objects that challenge notions of decorative and fine art, questioning what real value and purpose these objects and “the artist” serve in the 21st century. Honfleur Gallery, 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-3658392. honfleurgallery.com PHOTOBOOK at Vivid Solutions Gallery. Nov. 7-Dec. 9. PHOTOBOOK brings together diverse book projects and photographs from those books in an exhibition that asks how the the presentation of a photographic image influences its effect on the viewer. Vivid Solutions Gallery, 1231 Good Hope Rd. SE (inside Anacostia Arts Center). 202-365-8392. vividsolutionsgallery.com Veterans Day Public Skate at Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Nov. 11, 11 AM-2 PM. 3779 Ely Pl. NE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org Kenilworth Terrace/Mayfair Block Party. Nov. 15, 11 AM-3 PM. The City Year team at Neval Thomas Elementary School is hosting a community block party on the streets in between Thomas Elementary and Cesar Chavez Public Charter School at 650 Anacostia Ave. NE. Rhythm Cafe: Charlie Parker with Strings. Nov. 15, 2-4 PM. This month’s popular live jazz music program focuses on the influential saxophonist who was a leading figure in the development of bebop, a form of jazz characterized by fast tempos, virtuosic technique, and improvisation. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu

Home Improvement Store • Energy & Water • Interior Design • Landscape Design

Because Your Family Deserves a Stunning and Healthy Home 4080A Howard Ave. Kensington, Maryland

(Off Connecticut Ave.)

www.amicusgreen.com | info@amicusgreen.com | 301.571.8590

12 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Lean & Hungry Theater presents Sophocles’ Oedipus The King. Nov. 16, 6 PM. The Pastor’s tale unfolds in the fictional West African country of “Thebes.” Original music composition by Lean & Hungry veteran composer Tom Carman will center on traditional African instrumentation, including djembe and kora. Doors open at 5 PM, with an immersive marketplace in the lobby showcasing art made from African craftspeople. $15, adults; $10, students, military, seniors with ID, and free for 12 and under. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org Verbal Gymnastics with John Johnson. Dec. 11, 10:30 AM-noon. This monthly spoken word program for adults uses body movement, poetry, and theatrical elements designed to spark inner creativity, reflection, and overall well-being. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort

Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Yoga @ the Library. Every Saturday, 10 AM. Wear some comfortable clothing and bring a mat, yoga mats are also available for use during the class. Free. Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. 202-281-2583. dclibrary.org/benning

SPORTS AND FITNESS Washington Wizards Basketball. Nov. 12, 15, 19, 21, 25, 29 and Dec. 1, 3, 5, 8, 12. Verizon Center. nba.com/wizards Washington Capitals Ice Hockey. Nov. 8, 11, 14, 22, 28 and Dec. 2. Verizon Center. capitals.nhl.com Washington Capitals Practice Schedule. Non-game day, 10:30 AM; game day, 10 AM; and day after game, 11 AM. All practices are at Kettler Capitals Iceplex, 627 No. Glebe Rd., Suite 800, Arlington, VA. They are free and open to the public. kettlercapitalsiceplex.com Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Mid-November through mid-March. Monday–Thursday, 10 AM–9 PM; Friday-Saturday, 10 AM–11 PM; Sunday, 11 AM-9 PM. Skating is over at 5 PM on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Eve. No skating on Christmas or New Years. Two hour sessions begin on the hour. $8, adult; $7 seniors over 50, students with ID and kids, 12 and under. $195, season pass. $3.00 skate rental (ID required) and $.50 locker rental with $5 deposit. 7th St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-2169397. nga.gov Public Ice Skating at Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Fridays, noon-1:50 PM and Saturdays, noon-1 PM. $5, adults; kids 2-12 and seniors, $4. Skate Rental, $3. Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. 202-584-5007. fdia.org Canal Park Ice Skating. Monday and Tuesday, noon-7 PM; Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, noon-9 PM; Saturday, 11 AM-10 PM; and Sunday, 11 AM-7 PM. $9, adults; $8, children, seniors and military. $4, skate rental. Canal Park Ice Rink is at 202 M St. SE. 202-554-6051. canalparkdc.org Adult Dance and Fitness Classes at THEARC. Mondays, 7:15 PM, Yoga; Tuesdays, 7:30 PM, Zumba; Thursdays, 7:45 PM, Ballet; Saturdays, 9 AM, Zumba. Drop-in rates are $12. Residents of 20020 or 20032 (with a valid ID), dropin rates are $6. Class card which covers 12 classes and are good for up to 4 months are $100. Residents of 20020 or 20032 (with a valid ID), class cards are $60. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org Deanwood (indoor) Pool. Mon-Fri 6:30 AM-8 PM; Sat-Sun, 9 AM- 5 PM. Free for DC residents. 1350 49th St. NE. 202-671-3078. dpr.dc.gov Ferebee Hope (indoor) Pool. Open weekdays, 10 AM-6 PM. Closed weekends. Free for DC residents. 3999 8th St. SE. 202-645-3916. dpr.dc.gov

La Strega Accounting, Inc. Tax Services, Accounting, and QuickBooks Training

Marina L. Martin, EA, MBA

Certified Quickbooks Pro Advisor Advisor® Individual Taxes, Business Taxes, Back Taxes

QuickBooks Classes Available Now!

Visit our website for more information

www.lastregaaccounting.com

202.251.3907

(c)

202.547.9536

(telefax)

lastregaindc@gmail.com

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 13

SALES AND MARKETS H Street FRESHFARM Market. Saturdays, 9 AM-noon, through Dec. 20. SNAP (EBT/Food Stamps) accepted. 13th and H Sts. NE. freshfarmmarket.org U Street Flea. Saturdays and Sundays, 10 AM-5 PM. The market is in the parking lot, next to Nellie’s Sports Bar (three blocks east of U Street Metro), at 912 U St. NW. ustreetflea.com Branch Avenue Pawn Parking Lot Flea Market. Saturdays, year-round (weather permitting). Set up after 10 AM. 3128 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD Fresh Tuesdays at Eastern Market. Every Tuesday, 3-7 PM. Tuesday afternoon farmers’ line of fresh produce. Eastern Market, 200 block of 7th St. SE. 202698-5253. easternmarketdc.com Union Market. Tuesday-Friday, 11 AM-8 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 8 AM-8 PM. Union Market is an artisanal, curated, year round food market featuring over 40 local vendors. 1309 5th St. NE. 301-6527400. unionmarketdc.com Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7 AM-7 PM; Saturdays, 7 AM-5 PM; Sundays, 9 AM- PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9 AM-6 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. 200 block of 7th St. SE. 202-698-5253. easternmarketdc.com Dupont Circle Farmers Market. Sundays (rain or shine), year round, 9 AM-1 PM. 20th St. and Mass. Ave. NW, 1500 block of 20th St. NW (between Mass. Ave. and Q St. in the adjacent parking lot of PNC Bank). 202-362-8889. freshfarmmarket.org Georgetown Flea Market. Sundays year around (except in the case of very inclement weather), 8 AM-4 PM. 1819 35th St. NW. georgetownfleamarket.com Maine Avenue Fish Market. Open 365 days a year. 7 AM-9 PM. 1100 Maine Ave. SW. 202-484-2722. Branch Avenue Pawn Parking Lot Flea Market. Saturdays. Set up (depending on the weather) after 10 AM. 3128 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD.

CIVIC LIFE

Ronda Bresnick Hauss Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supporting you in having a healthy & productive life.

Psychotherapy for adults using an integrative & holistic approach: traditional talk therapy, meditation, & creative, non-verbal techniques.

1308 Constitution Ave., N.E. 202.544.5050

www.quietwaterscenter.com

14 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Midterm Election Analysis at the National Archives. Nov. 6, 7 PM. A bipartisan group of former Members of Congress and other political experts will examine the November 4th midterm election results. nara.gov Councilmember Alexander’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 10 AM-6 PM. 2524 Penn. Ave. SE. 202-581-1560. Councilmember Barry’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 9 AM-5 PM. 2100 MLK Ave, SE, #307. 202-698-2185. Congresswoman Norton’s SE District Office. Open weekdays, 9 AM-6 PM. 2041 MLK Ave. SE, #238. 202-678-8900. norton.house.gov

Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church “Living” Christmas Tree

Dec. 5, 7 PM; Dec. 6, 4 PM and 7 PM; and Dec. 7, 6:30 PM. The theme of this year’s service is “People Enjoying Worship! Christmas at PABC.” This unique worship experience will be highlighted by a replica Christmas tree that stands over six tiers tall. Among the “decorations” adorning the tree, will be 50 men and women from area churches who will sing the best of the season’s sacred music while standing within its structure, thus bringing the tree to “life.” $15. Purchase tickets at the church office. 3000 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-581-1500. Photo: Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church Eastland Gardens Civic Association Meeting. Third Tuesday, 6:30-8 PM at Kenilworth Elementary School Auditorium, 1300 44th St. NE. Contact Javier Barker, j58barker@yahoo. com or 202-450-3155. Anacostia Coordinating Council Meeting. Last Tuesday, noon-2 PM. Anacostia Museum, 1901 Fort St. SE. For further details, contact Philip Pannell, 202-889-4900. Capitol View Civic Association Meeting. Third Monday, 6:30 PM. Hughes Memorial United Methodist, 25 53rd St. NE. capitolviewcivicassoc.org Historical Anacostia Block Association. Second Thursday, 7-9 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 PM. Anacostia High School, 16th and R sts. SE. Deanwood Citizens Association General Body Meeting. Fourth Monday, except Aug. and Dec., 6:30 PM. 1350 49th St. NE. Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE.

ANC MONTHLY MEETINGS

ANC 7B. Third Thursday, 7 PM. Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church, 3200 S St. SE (Branch Ave and S St. SE). 202-584-3400. anc7b@pressroom.com. anc7b.us ANC 7C. Second Thursday, 7 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202-398-5100. anc7c@verizon.net ANC 7D. Second Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Sixth District Police Station, 100 42nd St. NE. 202-398-5258. 7D06@anc.dc.gov ANC 7E. Second Tuesday, 7-8:30 PM. Jones Memorial Church, 4625 G St. SE. 202-5826360. 7E@anc.dc.gov ANC 7F. Third Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Washington Tennis and Education Foundation, 200 Stoddert Place, SE ANC 8A. First Tuesday, 7 PM. Anacostia UPO Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202889-6600. anc8adc.org ANC 8B. Third Tuesday, 7 PM. Seventh District Police Station Community Center, Alabama and McGee Sts. SE. 202-610-1818. anc8b.org ANC 8C. First Wednesday, 7 PM. 2907 MLK Jr Ave. SE. 202-388-2244. ANC 8D. Fourth Thursday, 7 PM. Specialty Hospital of Washington, 4601 MLK Jr. Ave. SW. 202-561-0774. u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 15

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Muriel Bowser Wins a Four Point Majority

by Andrew Lightman

n a beautiful November day, bucking national trends, District voters elected native Washingtonian, Democrat Muriel Bowser the next Mayor of the District of Columbia. Bowser received a total of 80,824 votes. With 53.96 percent of the ballots cast, she triumphed with a four-point majority. This was a major achievement for politician who barely eked out her party’s nomination with a 43.38 percent plurality. With promises of continued progress for a thriving District, Bowser held on to her primary voters. Though a disciplined, well-funded campaign, she enticed an additional 38,779 voters to step into her “All Eight Wards” tent on Election Day. In the absence of a nod from Mayor Vincent C. Gray, this is no mean achievement.

ty faced any real opposition. Bowser, on the other hand, faced two adversaries, one of whom was well-funded. Her closest challenger, Councilmember David Catania (At-Large I) received 52,890 votes or 35.31 percent of the total cast. The anemic campaign of former councilmember Carol Schwartz received 10,616 votes or 7.09 percent. Interestingly, Catania’s very competitive challenge to Democratic hegemony did not generate enthusiasm analogous to Schwartz’s 2002 bid. In that year, 36.70 percent of registered voters cast their ballots with Schwartz garnering 34.47 percent in that contest against Mayor Marion S. Barry. To better understand the recent election results, the first question to ask is “Who voted?”

Lending Perspective to Bowser’s Victory

In the past, the percentage of voter participation in November’s General Election has been roughly the same as in the previous primary. The 2014 elections did not follow this pattern. 26.89 percent of the District electorate exercised their franchise on Election Day with another 5.58 percent voting early. Suggesting growing popular interest during District’s longest election cycle, this was a 5.5 point increase over the 26.93 percent of registered Democrats who voted in their party’s spring primary. The November contest saw an average 4.92 percent increase in par-

To put this in perspective, in 2010 Gray received 74.20 percent of the vote in the general election with 17,154 more ballots than Bowser’s general election total. In 2006, Bowser’s mentor, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, garnered 88.58 percent of the vote racking up 26,024 more ballots in his column then Bowser. So, while the new mayor may have secured a majority, the scope of her win does not match those of either of her predecessors. To be fair, neither Gray nor Fen16 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Voters Defy History

ticipation in every ward in the city. Two wards had significant increases above even that. Ward 2 saw a 7.82 percent increase and while Ward 3 witnessed a 6.41 percent positive change. Even Ward 8, long known for its voter disengagement, registered a 5.95 percent increase. Catania’s historic candidacy may account for the increases in the city’s two western wards. Here, Elissa Sliverman’s ‘change voters’ likely added to his numbers. At the other end of the District in Wards 4, 5, 7 and 8, Bowser’s well-funded GOTV (Get Out The Vote) effort lured Democrats who had not voted in the primary out of their homes making a significant difference. However, while Bowser won a

four point overall majority of the vote, she did not win every ward.

Deep Down in the Wards

Despite the aid of former Ward 6 Councilmember Sharon Ambrose, who chaired his campaign, Catania managed only a 45.74 percent plurality in Ward 6, where he drew 11,143 votes. Despite the best efforts of the Washington Post Editorial Board,

1 & 2 BEDROOMS FOR RENT

Catania took 50.58 percent of voterich Ward 3 or a total of 11,594 votes. In his Ward 2 home, he garnered 52.42 percent or 7,443 votes. These three wards together constituted 57.06 percent of his total. In Ward 4, Catania got only 6,159 votes. This is only 169 more than Gray received in the April Democratic Primary. In Ward 5, he received 4,654, only 223 more than Bowser did running last spring. Wards 7 and 8 only provided him with a minuscule 3,837 additional votes. Bowser clinched significant majorities in four out of the eight wards. While scratching out a 48.82 percent plurality in Ward 1, she dominated the city’s eastern neighborhoods. Bowser received 63.17 percent of the vote in Ward 4; 63.69 percent in Ward 5; 71.98 percent in Ward 7; and 73.93 in Ward 8. Together, these neighborhoods provided 57.42 percent of her total ballots. Simple percentages do not tell the whole story of Bowser’s victory. Bowser secured the Democratic nomination with a plurality of 42,045 votes in a low turnout election against multiple opponents. On Nov. 4, she received 80,824 votes. Bowser increased her take in all eight wards by an average of 4,847. In the city’s western wards, the increase in Bowser’s numbers was less pronounced. In Ward 3, Bowser secured a paltry additional 187 votes over her primary yield. In Ward 2, she added 1,476. In Ward 1, 3,654 more citizens selected her. In Ward 6, 4,927 new voters flocked to her banner. While these are impressive numbers, they are dwarfed by Bowser’s success in the city’s northern and eastern wards. In Ward 7, Bowser added 8,041 votes over her primary total. In Ward 5, she added 8,007. In Ward 4, an ad-

ditional 6,546 voters penciled her in. In Ward 8, 5,941 voters joined her ranks. In total, Bowser swung an additional 38,779 votes to her column. While this may have not duplicated the achievement of her mentor, Fenty, it was more than sufficient to crush her two opponents.

Bowser Makes Her Sale

Bowser began her campaign over a year ago with an attack on a sitting mayor wounded by scandal. Arguing that she was the only candidate capable of dispatching him, she cobbled together a coalition of strategic voters and true believers from her home ward and the city’s western neighborhoods to secure the Democratic nomination with a plurality. Understanding the mercurial nature of strategic voters, faced with an opponent from the city’s western wards, Bowser pivoted over the summer. In an effort to expand her primary base, she reached out to both Mayor Gray’s base and to Democratic African-American voters with a reassuring message of inclusiveness, preservation of the city’s historic character and continuity of existing reforms in mailers and advertising. She coupled this with an expensive, well-organized GOTV effort targeted at Wards 4, 5, 7 and 8. Responding to Bowser’s call, voters in the city’s northern and eastern neighborhoods, substantial numbers of whom had sat out the primary, made a pilgrimage to the voting booth and voted for her. In doing so, they transformed Bowser’s plurality into a governing majority. If she can take the same disciplined, focused approach to governance that she exhibited on the campaign trail into the Wilson Building, Bowser will be a mayor to be reckoned with. u

1110 SAVANNAH STREET SE WDC 200032 Near Downtown, Retails and Restaurants

2 BLOCKS TO THE CONGRESS HEIGHTS METRO Spacious Kitchen with Dishwasher and Microwave Central Air Conditioning State of the Art Laundry Room Free Wi-Fi Beautiful Hardwood Floors Ceramic Tile Bath On-site Parking Fitness Center CALL ANACOSTIA RIVER REALTY FOR A TOUR TODAY:

202.678.7325 • www.AnacostiaRiverRealty.com www.Facebook.com/EQFlatsDC

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 17

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

theNUMB3RS 3.327.649.10

Unlocking Opportunities

What The District Can Do To Better Support Low-Income Students

by Soumya Bhat and Jenny Reed

overty makes it hard for children to succeed in school. Low-income children are more likely than others to show up to school hungry, exposed to violence, stressed by family instability, or faced with severe health problems. That’s why efforts to close the stilllarge achievement gap in DC have to go beyond improving classroom instruction to also address the challenges that lowincome children bring to school every day. The good news is that services such as quality afterschool programs and mental health services can alleviate poverty’s impact – unlocking opportunities and allowing all students to reach their potential. These supports are a proven way to improve attendance, raise grades and test scores, and reduce discipline and behavior problems. And schools are an ideal location to deliver services. Children are far more likely to use mental health services, for example, when they are located in a school than if the referral is to an outside professional. And staff that deliver services in schools —like social workers and nurses--can work directly with teachers to identify the services students need and can collaborate to address problem behaviors that get in the way of learning. DC offers a number of programs that help low-income students, but there are still large gaps. The number of homeless students is rising, but federal funding is low and falling. Approximately 5,000 DC children don’t have access to needed mental health services. Less than one quarter of at-risk children have access to afterschool programs. And some school nurses, psychologists and social workers have caseloads well beyond industry standards. The District has a unique opportunity to do more. This year, DC Public Schools and each charter school received an ad-

18 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

ditional $2,000 for each “at-risk” student through the school funding formula. If used well, those new resources could go a long way toward helping low-income students succeed.

SERVICES = Success

Here are some of the key ways that schools can unlock opportunities for all students in DC schools: Improve Services for Students who are Homeless: Over 4,000 students in DC Public Schools are homeless – as many as one-quarter of the students in some schools. Yet the District gets just $35 in federal funds to meet the needs of each homeless student. Individual schools need additional support to address the transportation, counseling and other needs of homeless children. As family homelessness worsens, school leaders need to assess what they offer to identify gaps in services that create educational barriers for homeless children. And the District can run homelessness prevention programs through schools to help families with school-age children avoid the trauma and disruption of homelessness. Expand School-Based Mental Health Services: Only one-third of DC schools are covered by the city’s school-based mental health program, and an estimated 5,000 children go without needed mental health services. Many schools need more social workers and psychologists to support large caseloads. And all schools can adopt practices used in some schools to reinforce positive behavior and make school staff sensitive to the needs of traumatized children. Promote Access to Quality Afterschool and Summer Learning Programs: Access to enriching afterschool and summer activities is one of the biggest disparities between low-income and other children. Yet

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY Solicitation No. 0003-2015

the District’s financial support of afterschool programs is modest and declining. Non-profits that operate programs in DC Public Schools get no funding from DCPS to cover their costs, limiting the kinds of programming they can do and the number of schools they can serve. The District should enhance the capacity of the organizations that provide quality programs to ensure that all low-income students have access to meaningful activities after school and in the summer, when low-income students lose ground. Scale-Up the Community Schools Model in DC: Community Schools turn public schools into hubs for students and the larger community by developing partnerships with community organizations and bringing services into the school, such as health care or adult literacy. There are currently six grantees (at 11 schools) operating Community School partnerships in the District, but the model should be expanded to all high-poverty schools. Expand Parent Engagement Efforts: There are promising efforts to engage parents and give them information to support their children’s learning at home, through parent-teacher home visits. But these practices are largely funded by a private organization and serve a small number of schools. The District should help more high-poverty schools participate in these effective parent engagement models. Improve Health and Nutrition Services for Students: SchoolBased Health Centers and school nurses are proven ways to help students to access primary care services. But only six high-schools have a health center, and many schools do not have a full-time nurse. Expanding health centers to high poverty middle schools and adding more nurses should be the next priorities.

In addition, all schools offer free breakfast, but they do not all use the most innovative ways to make sure students eat them, such as graband-go breakfasts that students can take to class.

Monitoring the New Funding

DCPS and each charter school received $2,000 in new funds for every low-income student this year. Now it is important to make sure those funds are spent as intended to improve outcomes for poor students. Both DCPS and public charter schools should be expected to report on how they use these resources, and ideally leaders and parents at individual schools should have a say in how the funds are used. Many of the services that improve school success are not run by the schools at all. For example, the School Mental Health program in DC Public Schools and DC public charter schools is run and managed by the Department of Behavioral Health. It therefore is critical that someone coordinate the efforts of the multiple agencies that provide services through schools. A new senior position to bridge DC’s education and human services agencies could identify needs of low-income children across schools, assess what services are available, and plan for and address gaps in services. The barriers poor children face are serious but not insurmountable. A concerted effort to make sure students get the help they need to be ready to learn is one of the keys to unlocking opportunities for DC low-income students.

Property Management Services THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY (DCHA) invites experienced property management firms to manage one or more of DCHA’s property(ies). SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available at the Issuing Office at 1133 North Capitol Street, NE, Suite 300, Administrative Services/Contracts and Procurement, Washington, DC 20002-7599, between the hours of 9:00am and 4:00pm, Monday through Friday, beginning on MONDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2014; and on DCHA web site at www.dchousing.org PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE will be held on Friday, November 7, 2014 at 10:00am at 1133 North Capitol Street, NE, Suite 300; Site Visits immediately following the Pre-Proposal Conference that begins at 10:00am. SEALED PROPOSAL RESPONSES are due to the Issuing Office by 11:00am on Wednesday, December 3, 2014. Contact the Issuing Office, LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod on (202) 535-1212 or by email at lmmcleod@dchousing.org for additional information.

Reed is Deputy Director and Bhat is an education policy analyst 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. u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 19

BULLETIN BOARD Caitlin Troutt, Janet Hofman and Veronica Hector in front of Arcadia Mobile Market at Deanwood Rec. Center. Photo: Kathleen Donner

Arcadia’s Mobile Market East of the River

Farm fresh food for all! On Wednesdays through Nov. 26, Arcadia’s Mobile Market will be at Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center, 3500 MLK Jr. Ave, SE from 9-11 a.m. On Thursdays through Nov. 20, Arcadia’s Mobile Market will be at St. Elizabeth’s East Gateway Pavilion, 2700 MLK Jr. Ave. SE from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and Parkside/Kenilworth Unity Health Center, 765 Kenilworth Terrace, NE from 3-7 p.m. Cash and debit accepted. SNAP/EBT, WIC and Senior CSFP doubled. arcadiafood.org

Holiday Tree Trimming Celebration at THEARC

During the winter holiday season, the partner organizations at THEARC extend a warm invitation to the community to participate in a festive evening of free activities including decorating a tree, indulging in tasty treats, watching special performances and much more. Free admission. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org

Community History Series at Anacostia Community Museum

On Saturday, Nov. 22, 2-4 p.m., Remembering Freedman’s Village. By 1863 Washington, DC had become a haven for fugitive slaves and contrabands. Jesse Holland, noted Washington-based political journalist and author, talks about the formation of Freedman’s Village and the transition 20 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

of this early temporary encampment to a prosperous and historically significant part of Washington’s Civil War legacy. On Thursday, Dec. 4, 10:30 a.m.noon, Who Was Solomon Brown? Pamela Henson of the Smithsonian Institution Archives talks about Solomon Brown, the first African American employee of the Smithsonian. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

Honfleur Gallery Accepting Artists and Curators Proposals for 2015 Exhibition Schedule

Honfleur Gallery reviews unsolicited proposals from artists and curators on a quarterly basis. They are one of the few galleries that does accept these proposals. Visit honfleurgallery.com/ gallery/exhibition-proposals.

Jobseeker Legal Clinic: Breaking Barriers to Employment at Francis A. Gregory Library

Are you having difficulties getting or keeping a job? On Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 11 a.m., come to a clinic and meet with an attorney from the Neighborhood Legal Services Program. There, individuals can find out if there is a barrier to employment that a lawyer may be able to help resolve. Information will be given about issues such as criminal record sealing, credit reports, background checks, obtaining driving and professional licenses, resolving back child support arrearages, wage theft, and other issues. Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library, 3660 Alabama Ave. SE. 202-6986373. dclibrary.org/francis Es usted un solicitante de empleo o un empleado recientemente contratado? Está teniendo dificul-

tades para conseguir o mantener un trabajo?

Ward 7 DDOT Projects Update Meeting

There is a Ward 7 DDOT projects update meeting on Nov. 17, 6:308:30 p.m. at the Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church, 3000 Pennsylvania Ave. SE (across the street from Metro Bus Routes 30N, 36, 39, A11, J13, K11, and M6). Project engineers will be in attendance to discuss Minnesota Ave. NE Phase I; Six Bridges over Watts Branch; 11th Street Bridge; Barney Circle and Southeast Boulevard; Parkside Pedestrian Bridge; Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens segment of Anacostia Riverwalk Trail; DC Streetcar; traffic improvements; asset management; tree projects; and low impact development projects. There will also be

a question and answer session. For more information, contact Brandon Cooper at 202-741-8528 or brandon.cooper@dc.gov.

MK Young Artists Showcase Brings Skating Stars to Fort Dupont Ice Arena

The MK Young Artists Showcase (MKYAS5) will be returning to the Fort Dupont Ice Arena for its fifth season grand finale. The Young Artists Showcase is a choreography contest for amateur and professional skaters from around the globe. Created by Grassroots to Champions founder and Olympic Coach, Audrey Weisiger, the competition takes on the likes of popular TV talent shows by having choreography challenges and elimination rounds that take place online by video submission. Fans vote for their favorites until the last two competitors meet on the ice at the live grand finale on Nov. 30, 2 p.m., at Fort Dupont Ice Arena. Celebrity judges and special guests for the live event include Emmy Award Winning Choreographer Sarah Kawahara, Head Choreographer and Dancer for Macklemore Anna Matuszewski, US Figure Skating World Team Members Madison Hubbell and Zachary Donohue, Ice Theatre of New York Artistic Director Doug Webster. MKYAS5 is hosted at the ice arena to raise funds and awareness for its Kids On Ice programs. Suggested donation is $20 per person.

Neighborhood Change Community Forum at the Anacostia Community Museum

ACM community forums are panel discussions focused on issues pertaining to community change, economic development, and quality of life issues for east of the river communities and beyond. On Saturday, Dec. 6, 2-4 p.m., this forum will focus on community change issues and the impact such issues have on neighborhoods. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

Ward 7 Senior Symposium on Diabetes

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, 9-11:30 a.m., there will be a Symposium on Diabetes at the Washington Senior Wellness Center, 3001 Alabama Ave. SE. Utility Companies will also be available to discuss Verizon, Pepco and Washington Gas discounts for seniors. Lunch is provided. Call and register if you plan to attend, 202-581-9355.

Rehabilitation of Six Bridges over Watts Branch, NE Continues

The District Department of Transportation has announced that the bridge at 44th St. will be closed for repairs for approximately two months. Work started Oct. 6. This portion of work is a continuation of the Rehabilitation of Six Bridges over Watts Branch Creek project. The 44th Street Bridge rehabilitation will consist of a bridge deck replacement, replacement of pedestrian railings, upgrading of the storm drain inlets, upgrading wheelchair ramps, widening sidewalks and resurfacing of bridge approaches. Motorists, pedestrians and cyclists are urged to stay alert for traffic control signs and detours, and to use caution when traveling through the work zone. 6bridges.info

...because I make good food choices. My name is Genevieve and I choose fresh vegetables when I go shopping. Eating vegetables gives me nutrients, like vitamins A and C, to help me stay healthy. To see the I am healthySM series and get tips on ways to stay healthy, visit www.amerihealthdc.com/iamhealthy.

History Kitchen-Civil War Recipes at the Anacostia Community Museum

Writer Tori Avey is fascinated by the story behind food—why we eat what we eat, how cultural foods have evolved, and how yesterday’s recipes can inspire us in the kitchen today. Her popular blog, “The History Kitchen,” is an exploration of food history and culinary culture. On Sunday, Dec. 14, 2-4 p.m., Avey gives an overview of what Union soldiers ate during the Civil War and shares her recipe for “commissary beef stew,” a common dish eaten in Army camps throughout the war. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 21

BULLETIN BOARD District’s Tree Planting Season Starts in Ward 7

On Oct. 24, Mayor Gray and the District Department of Transportation’s Urban Forestry Administration kicked-off tree planting season by planting 25 trees in Ward 7 in the 4400 block of Foote St. NE. During this year’s tree planting campaign, UFA will plant approximately 8,000 trees throughout the District.

OMA + OLIN Design Selected for the 11th Street Bridge Park

After a seven month nationwide design competition, OMA + OLIN has been selected as the design team for the 11th Street Bridge Park, DC’s first elevated park over the Anacostia River. The design can be viewed at bridgepark.org/competition. The 11th Street Bridge Park is expected to open 2017-2018. Anacostia Crossing - Navy Yard View

Covenant House Sleep Out: Executive Edition

On Thursday, Nov. 20, community leaders will sleep outside so homeless youth don’t have to. Last year in the Greater DC Region, 57% of homeless young people spent at least one day every month without food, 49% lacked high school diploma or GED, 84% were unemployed upon admission to Covenant House Washington, and 64% report history of physical and/or sexual abuse. On Nov. 20, executives, political and civic leaders, will participate in the Covenant House annual Candlelight Vigil and Sleep Out at Freedom Plaza, 1455 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, as an act of solidarity to address the serious issues surrounding youth homelessness. This event will raise significant awareness and funds on behalf of Covenant House Washington and mission of transforming the lives of young people in need. All are encouraged to be a part of this international movement to help kids off the street. Commit to fundraise. Reserve a sleeping bag. Read more at covhou.convio.net.

Monthly Reverse Mortgage Workshops Announced

Housing Counseling Services, Inc., a HUD approved non-profit housing counseling agency is one of the few housing counseling agencies in the DC metro area that has certified reverse mortgage counselors on staff. Housing Counseling Services has added a new workshop for homeowners who need a refresher on the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), also known as a reverse mortgage. HECM Workshops will be held on the 3rd 22 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. at 2410 17th St. NW. Workshops are available in English and Spanish. Other languages are available with advance notice. For more information call 202-667-7006 or info@ housingetc.org.

Plan Released for Closing of DC General Family Shelter

A plan has been released for the closing of the DC General Family Shelter. As part of the DC General Family Shelter Replacement Plan, the District’s goal is a one-to-one replacement of the shelter’s capacity by expanding the District’s inventory of smaller, neighborhoodbased programs. The plan includes an outline of projected timelines and resources needed to replace the shelter. The plan relies on the continued exit of families from the

shelter, using all available tools to connect them with permanent housing, as well as new initiatives to prevent family homelessness while the District prepares smaller, scattered sites for families needing emergency shelter. The replacement facilities would be located in various locations throughout the District, to avoid undue burdens on any particular community and to better integrate the facilities into their neighborhoods. Each of the approximately 5-10 locations would ideally house no more than 50 families. Additionally, the plan recommends that at least the main building of the DC General Family Shelter should be closed in its entirety all at once, rather than in a piecemeal fashion. A copy of the report is available online at dmhhs. dc.gov/publication/dc-generalfamily-shelter-replacement-plan.

DDOT Announces Revised Proposed Rules for the Operation of the DC Streetcar

The District Department of Transportation has announced the publication of revised proposed rules to establish routes and hours of operation for the DC Streetcar system, and prohibit actions that impede DC Streetcar operations. The revised rulemaking reflects the overwhelming number of public comments opposing the prohibition of riding a bicycle within a streetcar guideway. This prohibition has been removed. DDOT encourages motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists to make safe decisions when traveling near the Streetcar system. Cyclists in particular should remember crashes are more likely when crossing the Streetcar tracks at an angle less than 90 degrees. DDOT strongly encourages cyclists to consider using the G and I St. NE contraflow bike lanes, which allow for twoway bicycle travel, as that is safer than riding parallel to the tracks on H St. NE. The proposed regulations may be reviewed and comments submitted at dcregs.dc.gov. Written comments are invited during the 15 day comment period and should be submitted to publicspace. policy@dc.gov.

District Snow Team Holds Preparedness Dry Run

On Oct. 24, the District Snow Team prepared for the upcoming snow season by participating in a dry run. Crews from the Department of Public Works and the District Department of Transportation staged the emergency fleet in Lot 8 behind RFK Stadium prior to being deployed across the District. More than 250 pieces of heavy equipment were used during this exercise. This annual exercise is conducted to re-familiarize the District Snow Team with their routes and equipment. Nearly 700 plow drivers navigated their routes (leaving from RFK Stadium) while administrative, supervisory and logistical support team members practiced their functions at other sites, such as salt domes.

CAPS-DC Offers Alternative Taxi Transportation to MetroAccess Customers

On Monday, Oct. 6, noon, at the Fresenius Medical Center, 11 Dupont Circle NW; Lower Level Room 100, Mayor Gray, D.C. Taxicab Commission Chairman Linton and Commission members kicked-off and welcomed customers to the CAPS-DC Program. CAPSDC offers an alternative to eligible MetroAccess customers by providing direct curbto-curb transportation without multiple stops in standard taxicabs and offers priority use of wheelchair accessible vehicles as needed. The CAPS program is designed to provide eligible customers with direct travel to and from health care appointments in standard taxicabs without making multiple stops while also offering priority wheelchair accessible vehicles to those in need of that type of service. Through CAPS-DC, rides can be booked one hour in advance. Customers will have no increase in their out-of-pocket cost and companions can accompany at no additional charge. District taxpayers will save up to $1.8 million in savings due to a reduction in subsidy payments to MetroAccess. Thirty three MetroAccess vans have been transitioned to taxi service and an additional 30-35 wheelchair accessible vehicles are expected to be added through the CAPSDC program. More information about CAPS-DC is available at dctaxi.dc.gov.

DC Taxicab Commission Anonymous Riders Program Nets More Violators

The DC Taxicab Commission Anonymous Rider Program results for the 30-day period beginning Aug. 28, found 84 refusal to haul violations from among 308 rides; and 28 nonfunctioning credit card readers from among 300 rides. EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 23

Gourmet Cream Style Corn!

100% All Natural Sweet Corn No Added Sugar, Additives, Coloring, or Preservatives!

Better Tasting than Corn on the Cob!

available at:

P Street Georgetown Foggy Bottom Tenleytown

Silver Spring Alexandria Friendship Heights

www.larrysweetcorn.com

Taxi drivers must pick up anyone seeking their service. The only valid reasons for a taxi driver to refuse service is if the rider is severely inebriated or the driver fears physical harm. These most current results showed the reliability rate of credit card acceptance decreased from 96% to 91% as compared to previous tests of the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operation. The deployment of anonymous riders includes African Americans and whites, males and females, and a range of ages, as well as, an individual in a wheelchair and a person requiring the assistance of a seeingeye dog.

DDOT Releases Regulations Requiring Safe Routes for Pedestrians and Bicyclists at Work Zones

The District Department of Transportation has announced the adoption of the final rules to implement the provisions of the Bicycle Safety Amendment Act of 2013. The new rules require any construction site that blocks a sidewalk or bicycle lane to provide a safe route for pedestrians and bicyclists through or around the work zone. This safe route must be equal to the accommodation that was blocked, such as providing a bike lane that is physically separated from motor vehicle traffic if a protected bike lane is blocked. Also, the safe pedestrian or bicycle route must be free of obstructions and surface hazards such as loose gravel or uneven surfaces and must follow the path of the original pedestrian or bicycle route as closely as is practical. The final regulations are at dcregs.org/Gateway/NoticeHome. aspx?NoticeID=5122975.

Washington Area National Parks Make Nationally Unprecedented Investment in Energy Conservation

The National Park Service is investing $29 million in 81 individual energy efficiency and water conservation projects at national parks throughout the greater Washington region. This unprecedented commitment to reducing energy use 24 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

and generating energy from renewable sources is the largest to-date among the nine bureaus in the Department of the Interior. The 23-year Energy Savings Performance Contract awarded at the end of September to Siemens Government Technologies, will allow the NPS to conserve energy and water with no upfront costs and to accrue cost savings into the future. The project is funded by savings generated through the new energy conservation measures. Savings are guaranteed by Siemens and will allow the NPS facilities to generate 20 percent of their energy from renewable sources by 2020. Specific projects include installing intelligent lighting and water controls that regulate themselves to be most effective and efficient for the conditions, replacing outdated and high energy use heating and air conditioning systems and installing photovoltaic solar arrays. Project installation is expected to begin in January 2015.

RFK Stadium to Host Opening Ceremony for 2015 Police and Fire Games

RFK Stadium will host the opening ceremony for the 2015 World Police and Fire Games to be held on Friday, June 26. From June 26 to July 5, first responder athletes and other public safety agencies representing 70 countries will compete in 61 sporting events, in 53 different venues across the region. With approximately 12,000 hotel rooms reserved to date and an expected 30,000 visitors to the region, the 2015 Games will give the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital a dress rehearsal for an Olympic bid in 2024. The estimated local economic impact of the Games is projected to generate $60 to $80 million during a traditionally slower period for the city. For more information on the World Police and Fire Games, visit fairfax2015. com or call 202-480-9734. u

Louise Daniel Hutchinson Eminent Scholar Leaves Lasting Legacy

n the early 1970s the Anacostia Neighborhood Museum, under the direction of community historian Louise Daniel Hutchinson and museum founder John Kinard, undertook an ambitious effort to collect hundreds of oral histories from residents whose memories and experiences stretched to the start of the 20th century. After the successful staging of an exhibit based on these community interviews, Hutchinson and Kinard turned their attention to the area’s largely unknown pre-20th century history. Excavating archives, school records, photographs, personal diaries, census data, land deeds, maps, government reports and antiquarian books, Hutchinson and her team of researchers compiled an unprecedented collection of materials that resulted in the groundbreaking publication of The Anacostia Story: 1608 - 1930 by the Smithsonian Press in 1977. A complimentary exhibit toured the city and gained national recognition. “Ms. Hutchinson was always in the community,” says William Alston-El, an exhibit specialist trainee with the museum from 1977 to 1980. “Before the work of John Kinard, Zora Martin Felton and Mrs. Hutchinson, the history of peoples of African descent in Anacostia, Barry Farm and other communities wasn’t known.” With the desegregation of Washington’s school system, displacement of residents of Southwest Washington and the riots following the assassination of Dr. King, within a period of two decades the demographic composition of communities east of the river drastically changed from nearly 90% white in the 1950s to nearly 90% black by the early 1970s. Forty years after its publication, The Anacostia Story: 1608 - 1930 remains the foundational text for any scholar endeavoring to research the history of communities east of the river.

Her Life

Hutchinson was born on June 3, 1928 in Southern Maryland, in St. Mary’s County, on the campus of the Cardinal Gibbons Institute, a Catholic boarding school for black students where her parents served as principal and vice principal. The impact of the Great Depression subsequently closed the school and her parents moved to Westminster Street in the Shaw neighborhood.

by John Muller Her mother, Constance Daniel, eventually began working for the Washington Afro-American newspaper, where she was paid a penny a word. Through this work she became acquainted with Mary McLeod Bethune of the National Council of Negro Women. “My first job, at 12, was scrubbing Mrs. Bethune’s kitchen and bathroom, for which I was paid 25 cents a week,” Hutchinson told the Evening Star in the fall of 1977, “On Sunday mornings, we vied to see who could get to the newsstand at 7th Street and Florida Avenue to get her paper. She just had to have the New York papers. For that, we got an extra dime.” After attending DC’s colored public school system, Hutchinson attended Howard University in the late 1940s and early 1950s where she studied under famed sociologist E. Franklin Frazier and historians John Hope Franklin and Rayford Logan.

Museum Staff Reacts to Hutchinson’s Death

Louise Daniel Hutchinson in front of the Anacostia Neighborhood Museum, when it was located on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, in the early 1970s. Courtesy of DC Public Library, Special Collections.

Current staff of the Anacostia Community Museum, now located by Fort Stanton, are still impacted by Hutchinson through their personal memories and contemporary researchers seeking to review her research records. Through a chance referral after speaking with Hutchinson’s husband, Gail Lowe interviewed for a position as a research assistant and began working under “Mama Lou” in March 1980. “What is sometimes forgotten is how she was a leader and mentor in the historic preservation movement,” said Lowe, today the Anacostia Community Museum’s senior historian, alluding to the creation of the Anacostia Historic District in 1978. “Louise focused on not just the architectural work and physical place but the historic culture and social impact of community institutions,” says Lowe. Along with a critical eye for research, Hutchinson was known for being open and friendly to people from all walks of life. “She was warm, meticulous, and demanded excellence in the work and at the same time she was willing to take in young,

raw folks and introduce them around while doing oral history. She introduced these young people to those with influence.” “Mrs. Hutchinson contributed to the scholarship of the African American experience in Washington, DC and beyond by producing The Anacostia Story, 1608-1930 research collection, the most consulted collection in our Archives,” says archivist Jennifer Morris. “Historians, developers, scholars, and interns have used these records for various projects due to the rich resources gathered by Mrs. Hutchinson.”

Civil War Exhibit

In preparation for the launch of a new exhibit, How the Civil War Changed Washington, which will be on view from February 2, 2015 to November 15, 2015, the museum is seeking sponsorship partners to assist in promoting the exhibit. For more information contact Tykia Warden at wardent@si.edu or call (202) 633-4834. u

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 25

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

What’s Going On at Marvin Gaye Park by Charnice A. Milton

uring the spring and summer, Marvin Gaye Park was home to Soular Sundays, a bi-weekly event where residents enjoyed music, art, food, and the park itself. For years, it was known as “Needle Park,” because of its reputation as a gathering place for drug addicts. It was thanks to efforts by organizations such as Washington Parks and People that the park and people’s perspectives on it are beginning to change. Formerly known as Watts Branch Park, Marvin Gaye Park is the largest municipal park in Washington, DC. In 2001, Washington Parks and People began a revitalization project that continues today. In its first five years, volunteers removed more than 3.5 million pounds of trash, 9,000 hypodermic needles and 78 abandoned cars, as well as replanted over 1,000 trees. The National Recreation and Park Association also launched its “Parks Build Community” effort to help revitalize the park; in 2006, the park reopened with a playground, an amphitheater, and youth-run farmer’s market. Last month, Mayor Vincent Gray, Ward 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander, Parks and People Executive Director Steven Coleman, and area residents broke ground on the Marvin Gaye Playground located on Banks Place. When finished, the piano-shaped playground will feature a piano key performance space and musical note-shaped equipment. This is the first of a three-phase project that includes a new recreation center and improved trails. The playground is scheduled to be finished by December and the next two phases should be finished in 18 to 24 months.

Past Reputations Influence the Present

RonDale Pooler’s family hse lived close to the park since 1979. “Back 26 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

then, I knew it was here, because I had older family members that used to hang out at the park,” he recalled. “There were certain sections of the park I was able to go in because it was close to my house.” Pooler, who serves Parks and People as Field Coordinator, talked about two sections of the park: “the woods,” where children played hide-and-seek, and an area where older men hung out. Pooler’s children want to play in the park as well; however, despite changes over the years, the reputation lingers. Older family members ask him about taking his children, as well as nieces and nephews, somewhere else because there are still some drug users hanging around the park. However, the children are eager to go there. “I avoided this park for a long time,” said Carolyn Carpenter, who lives on nearby 61st Street. “As a matter of fact, I didn’t realize it was here for a long time. I knew that there were issues with drug use in the park. The park has an image for being unsafe.” Carpenter said that many neighbors still remember the park’s past and avoid it altogether. “It really is a shame,” she said. “But, there is a lot of change that’s happening to be proud of and I would like to see more people use the park for the reasons that the park stands for. I hate to see it being abused and disrespected.”

Down by the Riverside

“Soular Sundays are great, but we need to do more,” said Coleman. With colder temperatures, it becomes a challenge to bring people to the park. One of the ways Parks and People plan to maintain momentum is through the Riverside Center, located on Foote Street. A former nightclub where Gaye performed, the center will be used for programs such as cooking classes, community meetings, and the

Washington Parks and People Executive Director Steven Coleman (right) talks to resident Carolyn Carpenter at the Riverside Center. The former night club will reopen in November as a community center. Photo: Charnice A. Milton

Farmer’s Market. “It has so many different roles,” Coleman explained. “It’s a town hall...It’s a youth program site...It’s a job training site; it’s a nutrition and cooking classroom...” Riverside is one aspect of a campaign called “Down by the Riverside,” which Coleman hopes will help residents rediscover their connection to the park, the Anacostia River that streams through it, and each other. The campaign offers music, storytelling, fitness classes through the Heart & Soul program and food in order to bring the community together. “We knew there was a problem when people weren’t coming down by the riverside,” Coleman explained. “Throughout civilization, going back to Egypt, people always gathered by the rivers. When they’re not there, you know there’s something wrong.”

Challenges

While Poole acknowledged that the cooler weather could deter residents from using the park, the programming will continue. “As long as each event is promoted properly the information is out in the neighborhood, and it’s something that the neighborhood is interested in, they will come out,” he said. Another challenge is consistency. “Say if this block was activated with

positive programming every day for two or three weeks, it would definitely change the look of this block,” he said. “Even with the upgrades we’re doing now, if we leave out of here, after all these upgrades are done, and we’re not out here for, say, a month or weeks at a time, people will still have the same feeling about the center. People will ride past and think it’s abandoned.”

Taking Back the Park

If residents would like to help the effort, Poole’s suggestion is simple: keep using the park. “It’s like a bandwagon thing,” he explained. “If there’s something going on out here and it looks appealing, then people will stop by.” Carpenter agreed saying, “Once they do that and get over the fear of what the park used to represent, I think it would just work from there.” With the Riverside Center’s Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Harvest Fest In the Park on November 1, there are more opportunities to reconnect with the park. The Riverside Center is located at 5200 Foote Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019. To learn more about Washington Parks and People, visit www.washingtonparks.net/. u

OVER 40 AND DUE FOR YOUR ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM? No need to travel across town for your next mammogram. Breast Care for Washington has opened the first and only state-of-the-art breast cancer screening facility east of the Anacostia River in Bellevue. No referrals necessary for a screening. Digital screening and diagnostic mammograms Breast ultrasounds & minimally invasive breast biopsies

Located in the Conway Health & Resource Center 4 Atlantic St. SW (Atlantic & South Capitol Sts.)

APPOINTMENT LINE: 202-465-7164 Same-day and evening appointments available.

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 27

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

New Elevated Park: A Bridge to Anacostia Development 11th Street Bridge Park Plans Lead to Economic Development for Anacostia

fter a seven-month, nationwide design competition, DC residents are looking forward to their first elevated park, similar to the High Line Park in New York City. The selected design was created by the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), an architectural firm based in the Netherlands, and Olin Studio, based in Philadelphia. The 11th Street Bridge Park’s foundation will be built on piers that remain from the demolished 11th Street bridge overlooking the Anacostia River. Not only will the bridge park set new heights for recreation in the city, it will continue a development uptick in one of the city’s most stigmatized neighborhoods. “One of the key goals of the 11th Street Bridge Park is to serve as an anchor for economic development,” says Scott Kratz, director of the project. “By creating a regional destination, this new civic space can become a magnet for new businesses on both sides of the Anacostia River.” 28 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

by Christina Sturdivant While the Navy Yard and Capitol Hill communities bustle with restaurants and retail and residential development, Anacostia has been plagued with high crime and unemployment rates – factors that have derailed economic development for decades. When Charles Wilson moved into Anacostia in 2006, options for sit-down dining, retail shopping, and entertainment were scarce. Still he is proud to reside in a community rich in history and cultural heritage, especially among African Americans. “I really love the historic character and charm of the community, that’s what initially got me excited about the neighborhood,” says Wilson, who serves as president of the Historic Anacostia Block Association. When he heard of the bridge park project, Wilson was intrigued. “It’s going to be an exciting time for the neighborhood because of this project,” he says. “It’s going to create a whole new space in Ward 8 that most people haven’t been ex-

posed to.” Wilson welcomed Kratz to association meetings that were among the more than 200 forums that Kratz attended to keep neighbors updated and engaged in the progress of the project. While Wilson has seen recent development along the Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Good Hope Road corridor, including restaurants such as the Big Chair Cafe and Union Town Bar and Grill, and cultural spaces like the Anacostia Arts Center, which includes retail shops and a cafe, he believes that the bridge park will plateau the neighborhood in a new way. “Historic Anacostia is starting to get national attention because of the proposed bridge park, so [the neighborhood] is definitely going to be much brighter because of this,” says Wilson. “I already hear from people who are interested in the neighborhood because of this proposed project.” Each team in the design competition received current commu-

nity information, such as the fact that in Capitol Hill the average family income is $145,127, while in the Anacostia neighborhood it is $50,800 and 47 percent of children live in poverty. “From the initial brief, the competition organizers made it clear that one of the key missions for the new bridge park was to provide economic and social benefits for the east side of the river,” says Jason Long, partner-in charge at OMA. In a press release by OMA, Long described the design as “a literal intersection and a dynamic, multi-layered amenity … it simultaneously functions as a gateway, a lookout point with expansive views, a canopy that can shelter programs and a public plaza where the two paths meet.” The design, entitled “Anacostia Crossing,” includes a central plaza, enclosed café, and environmental center and other features that will form an X, a symbol of the city’s tradition of civic spaces. A report by HR&A Advisors Inc., a real estate,

improvement districts. Once construction is complete, employment opportunities will be provided through operations and maintenance, the bridge café, and the environmental center. Additional training and job opportunities could be provided through restoration technologies for the Anacostia River and urban agriculture. And with amenities such as kayak rentals, public art, and performances that will appeal to residents across the city, the bridge park will drive traffic to the neighborhood, stimulating outside economic development, and energy efficiency consulting firm, estimates that the park will draw 800,000 to 1.2 million visitors a year and be completely accessible for all user groups. The District has committed $14.5 million to the project, which demonstrates the backing of local government and the opportunity to immediately begin hiring consultants for a full-cost estimate, environmental assessment, rights of way, permitting process, and other procedures, says Kratz. The rest of the funding will be secured through sources including individuals, foundations, corporate support, and possibly federal agencies. “Now that we have a final design that folks can look, see, and touch, we are engaging and cultivating these kinds of potential funders,” says Kratz. As early as groundbreaking, Tendani Mpulubusi El, chairman of the Ward 8 Arts & Culture Council, foresees the park as offering advancements for Anacostia residents. “The construction, developing, and planning of the actual building will create economic stimulus and opportunities for people,” says Mpulubusi El, who has lived in Anacostia since 2004. Like Wilson, Mpulubusi El has seen signs of economic growth in Ward 8 through dining amenities and the entrance of public charter schools, the redevelopment of the St. Elizabeths campus, and projects created by the Great Streets Initiative and business

businesses to set up shop in the corridor, says Mpulubusi El. “It definitely will be a catalyst for economic development.” Christina Sturdivant is a Washington, DC, native reporting on arts, culture, development, innovation, and revitalization in the District. u

Anacostia residents hopeful that 11th Street Bridge Park will drive economic development

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 29

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

The River Whisperer

Gabe Horchler Commutes to Work Along the Anacostia

“T

here’s plenty of room for more commuters.” Not a sentiment heard often in the DC metro area, where the streets and highways are clogged every workday. But for Gabe Horchler commuting is literally a breeze as he steers his rowing shell down the Anacostia River each day from Bladensburg to his job as head of the Law Cataloging Section of the Library of Congress. Horchler grew up in northeast Philly where he and his friends

by Bill Matuszeski would take anything they thought might float out on the Delaware River. He always wanted to row, envious of those fancy clubs along the Schuylkill that you glimpse from the train pulling out of 30th Street Station on the way to New York City. He got his chance when he moved to Cheverly 25 years ago, where he and his wife raised five daughters, now 18 through 32. After discovering the Anacostia as a place to spend time in his shell on weekends, he began to think of how he might

Gabe Horchler on his commute to work. Photo: Joani Nelson Horchler

30 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

commute to work by boat, and beginning 15 years ago he put his plan into action. He bicycles 10 minutes from home to the Bladensburg Marina and Waterfront Park, rows 50 minutes in his shell to the Anacostia Community Boathouse near the Sousa Bridge, and rides another bike 15 minutes to the Library. Horchler loves the tranquility of the river, the waterfowl and birds, and the fresh air. Just last month he reported that “rowing home yesterday, as I rounded the bend upstream

of Hickey Run, the sun was setting behind Hickey Hill. It was high tide, the water was clean, and as I was admiring the beautiful sunset streaming through the magnificent cloud formations, a huge bald eagle soared overhead, It was astonishing.” Not a bad commuter experience. A week later, on his way to work Horchler encountered an eagle couple “sitting in a tree on the west bank, just downstream of the Arboretum, and coming from a tree on the opposite bank was the very distinct chirping of eagle chicks. So it looks like we have an entire family on the River now.” Horchler spends many hours as a volunteer for the Anacostia Watershed Society and as a longtime member of the Anacostia Watershed Citizens Advisory Committee for the river clean-up. One of his favorite spots is the dock at the base of the Arboretum’s Asian Gardens, where he always stops on his commute to rest and take in nature. This has led to a special relationship with the Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA). Because it extends into the flow, the dock serves to catch a large amount of trash that still comes down the river. Horchler collects and bags the trash, but he had nowhere to dispose of it. Enter the FONA staff. Horchler e-mails them when he has filled a bag and leaves it along the dock where they retrieve it for disposal. Despite the continuing problems of trash, and especially plastic bottles, Horchler has seen numerous signs of improvement in

the Anacostia over the years. Many acres of wetlands have been restored. More and more miles of hiking and biking trails are opening up along the river and its tributaries. The massive underground combined-sewer storage facility near RFK Stadium is progressing well, promising a day when storm-related sewage overflows are history. Most of all, there are a lot more people on the river – high school and college crews practicing, rowing schools, students on field trips. As more and more people see the spectacular natural beauty of the river, it cannot help but put pressure on upstream politicians to resist the plastic and bottle lobbies and pass the laws that will reduce the trash. Despite the increased activity on the Anacostia, Horchler is still the only river commuter, as far as he knows. There have been rumors of others, but he has not encountered them, as much as he would like to. He has some years to do so. As he says, “I love my commute; it’s what makes me hesitate to think about retirement.” Bill Matuszeski writes about the environment with a focus on the Anacostia. He was director of the Chesapeake Bay Program from 1991 to 2001 and currently serves as chair of the Anacostia Watershed Citizens Advisory Committee. This is an updated version of an article originally appearing in Arbor Friends, the quarterly publication of the Friends of the National Arboretum. u

WIDE SHOE OUTLET Men’s and Women’s sizes up to 15 EE Brands: Naturalizer • Soft Spots Ros Hommerson • Propet Walking Cradles • Easy Street Slingshots are Back

Animal Clinic of Anacostia Candace A. Ashley, DVM

Marlow Heights Shopping Center 4123 Branch Ave. Marlow Heights, MD

301-702 1401 Free Gift With Ad

20 years of serving Capitol Hill (minutes from Capitol Hill & Southwest via 11th Street Bridge)

2210 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, SE

202.889.8900

American Express, MasterCard, Visa & Discover accepted

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 31

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Rocketship Charter School to Launch in Randle Heights

Parents and Politicians Voice Concerns about Proximity to a Halfway House by Charnice A. Milton

ast year, the DC Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB) voted unanimously to approve a proposal from Rocketship Education to bring at least two schools to the city. At the time, Kristoffer Haines, Rocketship’s Vice President of National Development, stated, “Opening great schools doesn’t happen overnight, and we’re excited to partner with families and community members to ensure that Rocketship’s innovative model is tailored to meet the specific needs of the DC students we will serve.” Rocketship hoped to open its first school on Raynolds Place in Randle Heights in 2015. However, on November 3, 2014, the DC Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB) voted to approve Rocketship’s amended charter agreement, but opening day wull be delayed until September 2016. And while initially excited about the school, neighborhood reaction to the new project has been mixed.

What is Rocketship Education?

Founded in 2006, Rocketship aims to bring quality schools to low-income areas by focusing on three areas: training teachers and school leaders, engaging parents, and bringing personalized learning to students. The schools employ a blended learning model that allows teachers to utilize tools such as tutors, online learning, and enrichment programs. According to Rocketship’s 2013-2014 Year in Review, the model helped put California-area Rocketship schools in the top five percent of high-performing schools in the state. Currently, Rocketship has eight schools in California, one in Milwalkee, and a recentlyopened campus in Nashville.

32 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Rocketship DC’s Director of Community Development, Tamika Joyner (center) and Education Organizer Laurence Moses (left) speak during at a Fort Stanton Civic Association meeting in October. Photo: Charnice A. Milton

Plans in DC

On November 16, 2012, Rocketship submitted its application to DCPCSB. According to its vision statement, Rocketship “...seeks to create a future in which thousands of children from DC have graduated from four-year colleges and return to their communities in DC to eradicate the last traces of the achievement gap.” In order to do this, the organization initially proposed opening “...eight schools over five years, based on a performance contract that is mutually agreed upon with the DC Public Charter School Board.” Currently, Rocketship plans to open two campuses with an initial enrollment goal of 1300 students. Two years later, they will add one campus and 650 students per year (up to eight campuses and 5,200 students total

Resident Concerns

However, on September 16, Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 8E voted 3-0, with one abstention, against Rocketship’s plan. A month later, Single-Member District (SMC) 8B02 Commissioner Darrell Gaston explained this decision during the October 14 DCPCSB meeting. “Building a charter school within feet of a federal halfway house, which is known to have sexual predators, felons, and also on the record of having escapees, is not only a safety issue, but a question of honesty and impurity on behalf of Rocketship,” he testified (A representative from Hope Village, the halfway house in question, declined to comment). He also stated that Rocketship did not complete community outreach during the application process. Letters from 11 community members echo Commissioner Green’s concerns. For instance, Dr. Michael Bell, Sr., Senior Pastor of the Allen

Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, wrote “Whereas we invite better school options for our children and families, the proposed location for this school creates multiple concerns...” Dr. Bell’s church has a working relationship with Hope Village and will continue working with families through prevention and intervention services. However, he wrote that placing a Rocketship school in the area “...sends a message to our children and families that we fight against daily.” Also, he points out that there are three DCPS schools in the area within walking distance of the proposed location and the new school could “...force unnecessary competition between traditional public schools and charter public schools is unfair to taxpayers and our families.” Finally, Dr. Bell wrote that Rocketship did not reach out to the major stakeholders in the immediate area. “It is great that Rocketship had reach out to Horton Kids and Washington Ballet at The ARC, but what about the immediate community?” he asked.

Rocketship Responds

Katy Venskus, Rocketship’s Vice President of Growth, Development, and Policy, also testified during the DCPCSB meeting. Discussing residents’ concerns, she stated that Rocketship did not know about the location’s close proximity to Hope Village at first. While the organization did scout other areas and facilities, such as Winston Education Campus, Rocketship turned to its development partner, Turner-Agassi Charter School Facilities Fund, L.P., to find a location. “I will be the first to acknowledge that once we knew that this is the facility we were heading on, our due diligence should have looked different. We should have been more thorough,” Venskus testified. “Hope Village should have been on the top of the list. We take responsibility for the fact that it wasn’t. But we are working very earnestly now to make sure that we can make this a workable solution for the entire community.” As for community outreach, Venskus stated that former Direc-

to B er M an w le g S th vi R in m to Th w p o

W N in at p so le te 8 h h as m al re co re ti te in ag ta n lo si su m th tr

T ti 1 to 7

tor of Community Development, Barry Brinkley, met with stakeholders including Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry’s office and ANC 8B and discussed a possible partnership with DCPS. However, when Brinkley left the position, it left a month-long gap until Tamika Joyner joined in late September. While she notes that while the school location received mixed reviews, many residents are interested in Rocketship’s curriculum. “Everybody’s interested in the blended learning model,” she said. “Everyone’s excited to have another choice of a school. They believe in the mission and what we’re doing at Rocketship and are impressed with what we’ve done with our other campuses.”

Continuing the Conversation

With a final approval hearing on November 3, Rocketship is continuing its community outreach efforts: attending a town hall-style meeting put on by the Fort Stanton Civic Association, conducting the first parent leadership meeting, and collecting letters of support. One supporter, ANC 8B04 Commissioner Anthony Green hopes to continue the conversation. “I had been concerned with the project, as well as the location, as are many members of the community, but I’ve also been concerned with the outreach from Rocketship, as well as the conversations in our community, in regards to misinformation or accusations that have been going around,” he testified during the DCPCSB meeting. “We have a lot of people who are against this project, but they have not taken the temperature of the community.” As a result, many residents are looking for opportunities for discussion. “...This is really about making sure that parents have the choices to make their own decisions about where they want to send their kids, not us trying to pick for the parents,” he said. To learn more about Rocketship Education, visit the regional oﬃce, located at 1227 Good Hope Road, SE, Washington DC, 20020 or contact them at 202750-6402 or DC@rsed.org. u

COME JOIN OUR TEAM! Uptown Bakers is an equal opportunity employer and the finest specialty wholesale bakery in the Mid-Atlantic region. We are seeking a self- motivated maintenance technician to assist our team. Candidates should possess: • Must have general mechanical, electrical and plumbing ability. • Use a variety of hands tools, portable power tools and standard measuring instruments. • Willing to work day, evenings and nights, weekends, and holiday as required. • Perform on call and preventive maintenance duties as necessary. • Ability to successfully pass a drug screen and background check before hire

We accept applications in our bakery. Operation between 8AM and 2PM, MON-FRI 301-864-1500 ext. 204

5335 Kilmer Place Hyattsville, MD 20781 www.uptownbakers.com E-verify Employer

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 33

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Preventing Lead Poisoning in Children

Local Health Education Groups are Enlightening Parents about the Dangers of Lead Poisoning

an dust interfere with a child’s development and growth? It can if the dust is contaminated with lead. Each year more than 300,000 children in the United States ages 1 to 5 years of age are found with unsafe levels of lead in their system. Chronic toxicity, also known as lead poisoning, can hinder a child’s social and emotional health as well as their physical health. Yet many doctors miss the chance to screen for exposure in the homes during checkups. A well-educated parent is the key to preventing illness due to lead contamination.

The Harm in Lead

Lead is a mineral that is not intended for human consumption. If exposure occurs either through inhaling or swallowing it can cause damage to the system. Exposure to lead can interfere with calcium absorption causing weak bones. It can also interfere with red blood cell production and cause anemia. On the surface,

article and photos by Candace Y.A. Montague lead poisoning can cause symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, behavioral problems and even developmental delays. The problem is that many parents may not connect tummy aches to lead ingestion. Dr. Rhonique Harris, Chief Medical Officer and Vice President of Medical Affairs for Health Services for Children with Special Needs (HSCSN) says that the presence of lead in a child’s system can impact academic performance as well. “Reading skills, language development, behavior, social and problem solving skills are all impacted by lead in the system. As a pediatrician, I look at to see if the child is reaching certain developmental milestones. Gross and fine motor skills can be delayed due to lead poisoning.” HSCSN works on educating parents about the importance of screenings and keeping the home environment healthy. The good news is that lead poisoning is preventable. Screenings are critical to prevention. According to

Lead Safe DC team member explains how to prevent lead poisoning in the home to a visitor at Lead Prevention Forum.

34 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Tania Dash, 10, gets a finger prick test at Lead Prevention Community Forum in Ward 7.

Lead Safe DC, the DC Lead Law Section 2003 titled “Childhood Lead Screening and reporting requirements” states that each healthcare provider must inform parents of the requirement for periodic blood test. It also states that a blood test must be performed at least once between the ages of 6 and 9 months and again between the ages of 22 and 26 months. However, if a child is over the age of 26 months and the blood lead test has not been performed, then the child must be screened twice before the age of six. Children who are enrolled in Medicaid should be screened for lead poisoning as a part of the Early and Periodic, Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment Program (EPSDT). Dr. Harris suspects that’s not always happening after a child’s first birthday. “Either lead screening is not being documented or it’s not being done at all after 12 months. That time between age 15 months and 2 years old

the screening tends to drop off. ” Detecting actual lead poisoning can be very difficult to do since there are virtually no symptoms. This is why doctors rely on office visits to get a full scope of the child’s environment. The screening can be done in a primary care physician’s office during a regular well visit. Screening involves answering a series of questions about the home environment and who/what the child comes in contact with regularly. The blood test is a simple finger prick. HSCSN goes beyond the office to conduct home visits and help educate their clients about potential lead poisoning spots within the home. They also provide in-person and telephone reminders and gifts card incentives for parents who get their child tested for lead. Dr. Harris says these kinds of services are warranted given the scope of the problem, (continued on pg. 37)

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 35

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Black Mosaic Revisited

A Recent Symposium Examines a Groundbreaking Exhibit and the Years Since

by Phil Hutinet

n 1994, the Smithsonian While not the main impetus for mounting Anacostia Community Muthe Our Black Mosaic seum opened an extremely exhibition, the Mount ambitious and unprecedented Pleasant riots did reveal exhibition to examine issues of a growing disconnect black identity in Washington, between newly arrived DC. Part social science projimmigrant populations ect, part museum showcase and and the mostly Ameripart cross-cultural exchange, the can black power elite of exhibit Black Mosaic: CommuWashington, DC which nity, Race and Ethnicity among had made huge strides Black Immigrants in Washingduring the civil rights ton, DC marked a new beginmovement and conning for the Smithsonian Anatrolled the city politically costia Museum as it attempted at the local level in 1991. to provide programming reflecAs such, the combinative of the community it serves. tion of post-civil rights Inaugurated three years after the era politics and the Mount Pleasant riots that took mass-migration of peoplace on May 5 and 6 in 1991, Panelists discusses the immigration trends in the D.C. metro area of people from the African diaspora over the past two ple from Latin America, the exhibition reexamined the decades at the recently held Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum symposium “Revisiting Our Black Mosaic” coAfrica and the CaribbeAfrican Diaspora and sought sponsored with the Woodrow Wilson Center. (L-R) Patricia Foxen, Deputy Director of Research, National Council of La an since the 1950s genRaza; Heran Sereke-Brhan, Deputy Director, Office on African Affairs and Kristian Ramos, Public Relations Officer, Office an empirical understanding of on Latino Affairs, Executive Office of Mayor Vincent C. Gray, District of Columbia; Mwiza Munthali, Public Outreach erated new conversations black identity in the 1990s at a about black identity and time when the ranks of African, the African diaspora in Caribbean and Latino immiBecomes Local: Immigration in the escalated and what began as a heated Washington, DC. grant populations had swelled in DC Metro Area.” The panels includdiscussion ultimately led to a police The 1994 Smithsonian AnacosWashington, DC. ed a wide array of scholars, authors officer shooting the Latino immitia Community Museum exhibition On September 19, 2014, the Smithsonian Anacostia Commu- and academics who have contributed grant (he did survive his wounds). Our Black Mosaic sought to catanity Museum held a Symposium at a wealth of knowledge and research For two days, battles between the log the memories, traditions and the Wilson Center with a group of to understanding questions on Afri- police and mostly Latino immi- dreams of immigrant populations panelists who sought to revisit the can Diaspora, the sociology of black grants ensued, leading to looting, of African descent through the use highlights of the groundbreaking ex- identity and well-defined methodol- dozens of injuries and numerous of video, sound, photographs, docuogies used in researching, presenting cars set ablaze. Subsequent feder- ments, artwork and oral histories. hibition. Scholars continued to reand teaching these topics. ally commissioned studies revealed a Museum staff recruited and trained search questions posed twenty years systematic pattern of discrimination eight Community Scholars, already ago and now have a more profound against Latinos in DC including embedded in immigrant communiThe Black Mosaic Exhibit understanding of DC’s Black mosaic. unequal access to services, lack of ties, to collect artifacts and interOn Sunday May 5, 1991, a rookie Break-out sessions explored topics economic development opportuni- views from community members. Metropolitan police officer asked a such as “Representing Diaspora and ties and poor community policing The exhibition examined both indiSalvadorian man to get rid of a bottle Diverse Blackness in Museology,” including an abysmally low number vidual experiences from immigrants of alcohol he was consuming pub“The Black Mosaic of Washington, of Latino police officers in the Met- as well as their influence on music, licly; the exchange grew contentious DC: Unpacking Multiple ‘Black’ and a crowd gathered. The argument ropolitan Police Department. food, art and culture. Identities” and “Where International

36 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

(continued from pg. 34) The individual accounts from people interviewed for the project shed light on the expansive definition of African Identity and experiences in the Americas. Many immigrants, particularly from Latin America found segregation shocking. “The cleanliness and beauty of Washington impressed me when I arrived but the people were separated, blacks and whites were apart. I was not aware of discrimination,” explained Juana Campos. But the idea of an AfroLatino identity only began to develop recently in the United Stated as witnessed by Daniel Bueno “My life began to change during my developing years here from a Dominican to an Afro-Latino teenager. The word Afro was not in use and we were still divided into two races--black and white.” When Afro-Latinos spoke Spanish in the early 1960s, according to Bueno, “it would surprise people that we could speak it. We were in turn surprised that there were so many people of color in this country.” Maricela Medina summarizes Afro-Latinos’ newly defined plural identity eloquently “When I came here, we were referred to as Spanish. Hispanic is just a term of convenience. I describe myself as a black Hispanic woman or a black Latina woman, a black Dominican woman.” Similarly, immigrants of African descent from Haiti, who speak French and Afro-Brazilians, who speak Portuguese, recounted these types of experiences. In the process of collecting participant information, a bigger picture evolved pointing to a sharing of cultures between immigrants and native black populations leading to strong intercultural influences and a fusion of food, music and art. Roland Roebuck illustrates this cultural exchange when he said “Adams Morgan offers an opportunity to interact with members of the African American community, and members of the Latino community. One can be walking down Columbia Road and encounter

somebody from the Caribbean--the accent changes, ‘Hey, mon, what’ up?’--to the African American, ‘What’s happenin’, Brother?’--to the Afro-Latino, ‘Hey, como estan las cosas?’ So you’re like in three worlds at the same time and each of you have a different relationship.”

The Symposium

Naturally, conversations on race, ethnicity and nationality, as they relate to black identity and the African Diaspora, continue to raise more questions than they answer. The example of the evolution of an Afro-Latino identity in the United States is but one question in the larger conversation offered by this project. Certainly discussions about the large Ethiopian population in Washington leads to conversation about what it means to be African-American. Ethiopian Americans are technically African-American but where does this leave black Americans who have lived in the US for centuries? While many of the symposium topics offered a wealth of information gathered and analyzed over the past twenty years, the specter of massive changes taking place in DC loomed. The last break-out session of the symposium confronted DC’s current demographic shift as 80,000 new residents have moved into DC between 2003 and 2013 according to the US Census Bureau. Titled “Chocolate City No More: Changing Demographics and Gentrification in Washington, DC,” the panel addressed the issues of gentrification and the displacement of lower-income, mostly black, residents. As real estate prices soar in DC, who will have access to the city and what will DC’s black mosaic look like twenty years from now? Phil Hutinet is the publisher of East City Art, a publication dedicated to DC’s visual arts. For more information visit www.eastcityart.com u

“We’re not trying to take the place of primary care physician but we’re trying to meet the families where they are. Unhealthy home environments impact a child’s health on a number of levels. That’s why it’s so important to look at the health of the home.”

Drinking Water

The District has a well-documented history of issues with lead in water pipes dating back to the early 1990s when the Environmental Protection Agency began regulating lead in tap water. The District began a massive project that replaced city-owned (public) lead pipelines from 2004 to 2008. The project cost $93 million to finish and replaced pipelines that serve more than 17,000 homes. However that only relieves a portion of the problem. Homeowners are responsible for replacing the portion of the pipelines that are on their property. Replacing water pipes in a private residence can cost up to $3,000 or more to do. Nearly 15,000 homeowners chose not to replace the pipes when the water pipe replacement project occurred. In 2010, the Center for Disease Control released a study that explained that partially replaced water pipes can still be hazardous. In the report, it stated that children in homes where lead pipes had been partially replaced were three times as likely to have elevated lead levels as those whose homes never had lead pipes. Does this mean that the water coming from the tap cannot be trusted? Not necessarily. The risk of lead contamination in a partially replaced pipeline is higher than a fully replaced line but it is difficult to know when lead will be present in the water supply. The DC Department of Water suggests that if homeowners live in a home where the water pipelines are only partially replaced, they can call DC Water and request a water test to measure the lead levels. Homeowners can also periodically replace the filter at the tip of their faucets known as the aerator, use a water filter, and refrain from using unfiltered tap water for drinking and cooking.

How Healthy is Your Home?

Children are most likely exposed to lead within the home. That exposure could come from lead-based paint that may have been used. Many older apartment buildings and houses that were painted before the mid 1970s may have lead based paint along the walls and on the windowsills. The lead in the paint gets into a child’s system from paint chips that are accidently ingested. Also, swallowing house dust that they come in contact with by touching surfaces or toys that haven’t been cleaned can expose children. Some dust in the home is a residue of ground paint chips that are left around places in the home where old paint can be worn down (think about the doors and windowsills). The Center for Disease Control suggests the following lead poisoning prevention tips • Avoid renovation spaces in houses that were built before 1978 • Keep children away form chipping or peeling paint on walls • Regularly wash hands and toys

• Wet mop floors and wet wipe windows in order to pick up more dust • Prevent children form playing in bare soil areas

• Keeping a child healthy requires more than good nutrition and exercise. It also requires maintaining a healthy environment for them to live and play in everyday. To see if your home’s water pipes are connected to a lead service line or to request a water test, call DC Water at 202-787-2000. For more information about lead poisoning and ways to prevent it, visit www.leadsafedc.org. Candace Y.A. Montague is the health reporter for Capital Community News. u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 37

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Christopher Farris McKnight

article and photos by Twyla Alston

Early November firm green tomato from Twyla Alston’s garden.

aking in the nostalgia of the transitioning Summer has many joys in DC. However this year I reminisced in a special way with my uncle Christopher McKnight (the youngest of my father Ronald McKnight’s six siblings). He is a king in his own right. He is the type of person who dazzles a room with a simple smile and can melt your heart away with one dance. And dancing is what I remember so well about my Uncle Chris. He gave me twirling lessons in the basement of the home that my grandmother Lela Mae McKnight owned on Division Avenue in for more than 50 years before her passing. While teaching me how to “do the hustle,” I learned to improvise, relax even when I was unsure and appreciate a good lead. At 55 he wears a smile that is steeped in wisdom and determination. When he returned to Ward 7 after living 8 years in NC, he was delighted to know of my 100 square foot vegetable garden. So all Summer we talked about something in season he could cook for me. He suggested cooking turnips with greens, something with fresh herbs and finally Summer waned and Fall began. Finally, my phone rang “Let’s make fried green tomatoes,” he said I paused, and thought, “improvise and follow his lead” and the dancing began. 38 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

What a simple idea and so in time, but where was this idea birthed.” While is taste for everything is impeccable, the suggestion of fried green tomatoes took me aback. Over the course of weeks he talked to me about a time in our community I had never imagined. A time where a kitchen garden and homegrown produce wasn’t something you’d do for bragging rights or a trophy of purist intent, it was a normal part of life.

The Pointless Peach Tree… Has a Point

When I lived with my grandmother for a time during elementary school I remember the peach tree in the back yard. I never really understood that tree though. It produced fruit some seasons, but the peaches were never quite edible for my taste. We picked them and experimented with them along with other finds typical for a backyard in our neighborhood. According to my Uncle the peach tree was a remnant of the yard in his childhood. “We would go to the market every Saturday” in the 60s and 70s he shared. The Union Market would sell all types of fresh meat and even livestock. “you could select your meat and have it butchered, wrapped and bagged” on the spot. “We would also buy live chickens and bring them

Christopher with completed dish.

Uncle Chris’s Fried Green Tomatoes - Recipe home,” he shared with slight repulse on his face. His mother preferred fresh chicken and used every variety you could imagine. “My uncles were butchers,” he said adding that his Aunt Zola’s husband’s family had farm in Mitchellville, MD where they would also get fresh meat. During that time farmers lived along Sheriff Road on a stretch of land that has been bookmarked end to end with the 7-Eleven at Eastern Avenue and the Harmony cemetery for the past 40 years. Our Maryland neighbors along this road would come out and sell produce daily. For bread “we went to Mary Jane bread company on Division Avenue” and “for fresh fish we went the Shrimp Boat,” he seemed nostalgic. There were no grocery stores. “This is where we shopped,” he quipped. Uncle Chris continued with a story of community that I yearn to see again. At his home on Division Avenue many neighbors had home vegetable gardens. We shared what we had in abundance with each other (especially with families with children). It was part of our way of life. We grew everything we could in our back yards, kale, mustard greens, turnips, salad greens, string beans grew along the fence from the back yard to the front, peaches and of course we grew tomatoes. Being from Athens, Georgia “Momma would add peaches to everything,” he shared with that glowing smile, “Aunt Zola made the best peach cobbler.” Things changed after the riots of 68 that followed the passing of Rev. Dr. King. The “mom and pop” shops in the community were looted and burned out. People became less inclined to share what they grew, he added due to a sense of scarcity that began during this time. By the late 70s “we began to see more grocery stores and the interest in the Union Market” began to waned except for very special foods for those who had a taste for them. Even so after the yard’s use transitioned to be more to a place for children to play. This yard was the place where I nicked my knee many days climbing the mulberry tree that must have created the perfect shade for salad greens. This yard was the place where my fingers traced the fence so much that metal must have been in my DNA. This was the same fence that formerly held profuse green beans. This yard transitioned to being the place where I created inventive sling shots of what used to be tomato stakes and even made mud pies in soil the fed my family for a generation. In this yard remained a peach tree, one whose peaches would have been great had a known that the point of peaches is to wait until they ripen. I now understand that hanging around that peach, filling a cup with wet paper towels and popcorn to watch them sprout and to one day learn to grow an array of my own produce was the point. I arrived at this poignant lesson of my family history with my yard abloom with green tomatoes; a tender tart taste to remember it by. u

The Division Avenue home of my late grandmother Lela Mae’s sold over 20 years ago. Yet my Uncle Chris shared that he still remembers, when the Summer’s heat began to let up each year and the plants ceased producing new blossoms. This time occurs at various points for different plants, but for heat loving annuals like those in the nightshade plant family (peppers, eggplants, and tomatoes primarily) this occurs late August and continues to decline until the plants die as late as early November. So from the time families begin raiding stores for school supplies until when the skies grow purplish pink to enchant trick-or-treaters the taste for fried green tomatoes remains on Uncle Chris’ tongue. So he went to the Eastern Market and I went to my back yard and the dance began. Should you decide to hustle with us, be willing to improvise, relax even when you are unsure and appreciate a good lead--here is Christopher’s recipe. This recipe produces a mellow to tart tender green tomato with a delicate crisp buttery outside batter. Experimenting with the firmer green tomatoes Christopher intentionally selected from farmer’s market and slightly riper green tomatoes (a hue more yellow) from my yard the taste ranged from slightly tart to sweeter and more acidic (respectively). Both flavors were pleasing with a basic remoulade sauce (mayonnaise and tomato based with

spices) and a balancing starch side (we chose cheese grits). We finished this Sunday brunch with salmon cakes and peach punch (peach nectar and gingerale garnished with fresh peaches and peppermint). • 3 large green tomatoes sliced to about ½ inch thick • 2 eggs beaten (or ¼ cup milk—improvise) • 1 cup cornmeal • 1 teaspoon of pepper • ½ teaspoon of salt • ¾ cup of Canola oil (or enough to bring the oil ½ inch up from the bottom of your pan) In a small bowl mix the salt, pepper and cornmeal. Place oil in a skillet over medium high heat until wisps of smoke develop and then reduce to medium. Working with one piece at a time, dip each tomatoes slice into the beaten egg and then into the cornmeal. Remove excess cornmeal from each piece and then place on a plate. Once all the piece are battered, place the tomato slices in a single layer in the skillet being careful not to overlap or crowd the pieces. Watch the pieces for golden browning on the sides (appx 2-3 mins) and then turn to cook for an additional 2 minutes and then place on a plate covered with paper towel. Repeat this process until all the pieces are cooked. Serve immediately.

Preparing the tomatoes.

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 39

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Gregg Deal and the Team that Can’t be Named

aniel Snyder has his finger pointed, commanding you to “Be Honored.” The Washington football team owner is rendered in a 12-foot high, burgundy and gold mural. The artist, Gregg Deal, a member of the Nevada-based Pyramid Lake Paiute tribe, sits in the middle of the room. People dressed as fans wheel around him like a kettle of condors. “Get over it, chief,” they say. “You aren’t even a real Indian anyway.” The art and performance, held inside a dilapidated convenience store space, was part of “Art All Night,” a September event inspired by the “Nuit Blanche” festival in Paris. The fans are Deal’s friends performing, but their words are microaggressions, like snarky or slightly racist comments. The show reveals the artist’s most pointed commentary yet on the fans, the team and the owner of ”The Team that Can’t Be Named (TTTCBN).” He wants his audience to know the message is not just about a mascot. It’s about identity. “There has to be a little anonymity in what I do,” Deal says. The husband and father of four is careful how much personal information he makes available to the public these days. He has lived in the metropolitan area long enough to know his campaign against the mascot is complicated. Deal, 39, is social media-savvy. His creations draw attention on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. His art is one reason why the Washington football team’s accomplishments share the spotlight with outrage. Not long before “Art All Night,” Deal was invited to appear on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” for a segment focusing on changing the name. The episode sparked controversy when participating Washington fans said the show’s producers tricked them into confronting Deal and other activists. Several participants wanted their release forms torn up, but the episode still aired. Snyder has pledged to never change the name. So far, he has held his ground. The team recently launched a nonprofit organization called “Original

40 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

by Anthony J Rivera

Gregg Deal endures hours of microaggressions from Washington football team “fans” to show his audience what it is like being an indigenous person in the Washington area.

Americans Foundation” to address Native American needs and built a website, Redskinsfacts.com, to support their case for keeping the name. The controversy has even reached politics. Councilmembers Yvette Alexander (D-Ward 7) and Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) punted on a measure passed by the D.C. Council last year that condemned the team name. Alexander has distanced herself from the debate because, she says, changing the name “is up to Dan Snyder. Case closed,” according to a July article in National Journal. In Virginia, where Deal lives, lawmakers have even started a “Redskins Pride Caucus.” State Sen. Chap Petersen (D-Fairfax) helped launch it. He declined to comment for this story but pointed to previous statements he has made to the media regarding the issue. “I’m trying to bring some balance to the debate,” Petersen told the Washington Post. “There

Artist and Pyramid Lake Paiute tribe member, Gregg Deal, sits stoically as he is inundated with microaggressions by Washington football team "fans."

is so much misinformation out there.” Deal sees the resistance to changing the name from a cultural and historical perspective. Indigenous people have been disenfranchised and marginalized for so long in America that their identity has been subjugated to clichés and stereotypes, Deal says. Some say the hackneyed likenesses contribute to high rates of alcoholism and suicide in tribal communities, among Indigenous artist, Gregg Deal, painted a mural of the Washingother social maladies. ton football team coach, Dan Snyder, for his exhibit and performance piece “Redskin” in last September’s art event in Shaw. “We’re a relic. We’re something that Washington football team’s name doesn’t exist anymore,” he says. and some have said the blogger’s Deal’s father is white and his position is hypocritical. He was mother is full blood Native Amerieven hired by the team to help can. Her connection to the Paiute with public relations before quittribe was fractured because she had ting abruptly two weeks later. been taken in by white parents in While Tribbett declined to a closed adoption. The severing of comment about Deal’s work he indigenous children from their culsaid he understands the passionate ture is a situation that still affects debate happening on both sides. tribal communities, Deal says, deHowever, he says, public opinion is spite the Indian Child Welfare Act not likely to move further in favor of 1978. of changing the name. Deal was unable to enroll in Deal is a sports fan and unthe Paiute tribe until he substanderstands the connection people tiated his bloodlines. He and his feel with teams. However, any ammother finally became members in bivalence toward the mascot issue 2006. A complicated sense of ideneventually gave way and he took a tity drives Deal and is at the heart stand. of his objection to the mascot. “My wife and I did have to “Is it offensive? Yes. Should we make a conscious decision knowchange it because I’m offended? ing if we’re going to take a stance No,” Deal says. “It should change on this, there may be some consebecause it’s more reflective of quences,” he says. the history and the relationship Some accuse Deal of being an that indigenous people have with opportunist but he says he has alAmerican culture as well as with ways felt uncomfortable with InAmerican people.” dian mascots in sports “I think we sort of reached Deal laughs at the various a saturation point on this,” says terms used in America for minoriblogger and political operative ties. The phrase “Native American” Ben Tribbett, who made national is among them. With over 500 news when he broke the story of tribes speaking over 300 languages Virginia gubernatorial candidate and dialects, there are countless George Allen calling a man a racindividuals with varying senses of ist remark, “macaca,” at a camidentity, he says. paign event in 2006. “I’m not a Native American,” Tribbett has supported the he says, “I’m a Paiute.” u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 41

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

The Future of Congress Heights Art by the People: Southeast Residents Stake Claim to Neighborhood by Christina Sturdivant

“A

rt is something that brings people together,” says Luis Peralta, visual artist and winner of the 2013 East of the River Distinguished Artist award. “We may have a lot of differences in our political views, we may have a lot of differences in the way we think about certain neighborhoods,” he continues, “but art is something that everybody can enjoy.” Peralta recently witnessed the power of art to bring people together as one of five curators of the inaugural Nuit Blanche: Art All Night in Congress Heights. This was the first time the southeast neighborhood, along with several other communities throughout the District, participated in the annual festivities modeled after the original “Nuit Blanche” first held in Paris. The event drew over 17,000 people who enjoyed a rooftop fashion show, Caribbean carnival, karaoke, multimedia maze, art exhibitions, live music and drumming, open mic performances, capoeira martial arts, yoga, food demonstrations and more along Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. “It was a good experience,” says Peralta, “Hopefully we get a chance to do it next year and every year, it’s going to get better.”

42 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

While the efforts of over 30 organizations collaborating to ignite Congress Heights during Art All Night was successful, skepticism of the neighborhood becoming a true arts destination remains negatively rooted in history. In past decades, the Ward 8 neighborhood has been characterized by high poverty, crime, violence and unemployment. It was likely that the only foot traffic throughout the neighborhood was from those who lived there. “Sometimes people are scared to come over the bridge because they think they’re going to get robbed or all they’re going to see is drugs,” says Peralta, who has lived in historic Anacostia since 2008. “But the face of east of the river is changing and I believe that art is what the face is going to be. We’re in the process of revitalizing this area and its going to take some people to take risks to invest in the properties and arts--I think that’s what is going to bring more people here.” In 2013, the launch of East Gateway Pavilion promoted the former St. Elizabeth Hospital campus as a hub for art, creativity, health and culture in Congress Heights. The entire St. Elizabeth East campus, at 183

acres, is the largest remaining undeveloped parcel in the country’s top real estate market and could bring approximately five million square feet of urban development just minutes away from the Congress Heights metro station. “The St. Elizabeth development is very key to activating our infrastructure and our creative industries,” says Tendani Mpulubusi El, chair of the Ward 8 Arts & Culture Council. The Ward 8 Arts & Culture Council has contributed to the proposal of Four Points, LLC to become the Master Developer of St. Elizabeth East’s Phase 1, which comprises 1.6 million square feet of the property. If the Four Points proposal wins, residents can expect an arts hub that will grow to be relevant not only throughout the metropolitan region, but the entire east coast, says Mpulubusi El. Regardless of public or private resources, which have long been unequally distributed to east-of-the-river neighborhoods, Ward 8 residents are ready to stake their claim. “The Ward 8 Arts & Culture Council and a new generation of leadership is stepping up to the plate and we demand the best,” says Mpulubusi El. “We are compe-

tent, confident and well qualified to make things happen and we don’t believe that the problems that have been projected upon Ward 8 really represent the whole Ward 8 and Congress Heights. We understand the beauty that’s here and we’re making sure that we flip the script--we’re shining the light on what’s working and this is bringing different results.” The future of Congress Heights will be reflective of its majority African American residents, says Mpulubusi El--the artists, poets, writers, designers and creators who live in the community. “Because we live here, we’re not depending on grant funding or any outside factors, we’re going to continue to provide this and engage people because it’s naturally what we do.” If nothing else, the resurgence of arts and cultural outlets in Congress Heights will penetrate the harshness associated with poverty-stricken communities. “Without arts and culture in the community, it’s naturally going to become destructive because all of the creative energy is being funneled through something that is not building you up,” says Mpulubusi El. “In order to build, you need tools; in order to grow, you need food, and arts and culture is the seed that helps people grow into [individuals who are] making healthy contributions to the environment and society.”

Photos from Nuit Blanche: Art All Night in Congress Heights. Courtesy of the Ward 8 Arts & Culture Council.

For more information on the Ward 8 Art and Culture Council, go to https:// www.facebook.com/W8ACC. u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 43

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Urban Wear Boutique Opens in Anacostia by John Muller

Shoes, backpacks, winter and team hats, sweat suits, jeans, jackets and more are well-stocked at District Culture.

ver the summer 8 x 11 sheets of paper with a map outlining the city with “District” running along Eastern Avenue and “Culture” running along East Capitol Street covered the glass door and bay windows of 1922 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. “Coming Soon” was the only information for persistent inquisitors walking. Inside, a group of four close friends were hard at work building out interior cabinets and display cases, painting the walls, and installing lights and a security system of a soon-to-open urban wear boutique. Now a custom-made wood grain marquee has been installed, 44 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

heightening area intrigue. Growing up in the Savannah Terrace neighborhood of Southeast Washington, Ambrey “Debo” Young, Alexander “Bundy” Mosby, Maurice “Moe” Holton and Clifton Walker of Shipley Terrace frequented the Madness Shop on Georgia Avenue, the All Daz outlet on Benning Road, the Zo World store on Good Hope Road in addition to the locations of uniquely DC urban fashion brands Shooters and We R One. “Growing up in DC, we were influenced by the creative flair and entrepreneurial spirit of these brands and businesses,” says Mosby, CEO

The team of District Culture, L-R., Ambrey ‘Debo’ Young, Maurice “Moe” Holton, Clifton Walker, Rashara ‘Pae’ Grant, Alexander ‘Bundy’ Mosby.

Need Flooring?

of District Culture, who during the day works as an inspector for Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission. “We want the store to be the canvass in which people look to when they’re seeking to paint their own style and fashion.” Around three years ago, Young, a self-taught graphic designer, purchased a hot press and began making t-shirts for neighborhood clientele. Orders began coming in word-of-mouth and Young started designing his own custom shirts. The idea for a physical storefront wasn’t planned, says Young. After conversations among the friends, they decided opening their own store was within reach by pooling their collective expertise, resources and connections. Mosby surveyed and scouted locations on the main thoroughfares of Southeast Washington. In his travels he caught sight of the former tenant of their current location moving out and days later saw a “For Lease” sign posted. Mosby contacted Anthony McDuffie, a representative at Anacostia River Realty, whose office is next-door, and began working out the specifics of a lease. “One of Anacostia River Realty’s missions has been to bring more retail, restaurants and office tenants to the commercial corridor,” Darrin Davis, Principal Broker/Owner of Anacostia River Realty, said. “We are happy to bring District Culture as well as T-Mobile and the Rocketship Education’s offices to Historic Anacostia. We’re happy to see District Culture open; the neighbor-

hood needs a trendy sports shop.” When asked how District Culture would distinguish itself from City Beats in Congress Heights, which mostly sells athletic footwear, Holton, who works for a city housing agency, said, “We’re bringing Georgetown to the Southside. We have a variety of hats, jeans, backpacks, shoes, fleeces, sweat suits, and socks. We don’t focus on just one element.” On a recent visit to the store Paul Trantham, a candidate for ANC 8B02, stopped by to order 10 shirts for his poll workers. “I’m here to support these guys. We have to support businesses in our own community.” (Pricing for custom-made t-shirts will vary depending on sizes and quantity, says Mosby.) Once the store is open, Mosby and his team plan to host events at the store from album release parties for local music artists to launches for new shoes associated with professional athletes. If you see John Wall, Bradley Beal, or Kevin Durant bypassing G.T. Players on Wisconsin Avenue for District Culture don’t be surprised. “We have to stay vibrant and evolve with the times,” Mosby said. “The city is changing but there’s a culture here that’s strong. Part of that is fashion and entertainment and you’ll find that at District Culture.” With a soft opening held last month, District Culture, at 1922 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, is open weekdays and weekends from 11am - 8pm. A website is currently being set-up while the shop can be followed on Instagram at instagram.com/thedistrictculture202 and found by searching “District Culture” on Facebook. You can reach the store by calling (202) 8088921 or emailing thedistrictculture@ gmail.com. u

Shoes for all ages and styles are for sale inside the storeroom of District Culture.

Installation is our specialty. Need Refinishing? We do that too!

Call Today! (703) 965-6956

www.workmens.us

AmericA’s complete

restorAtion services Water or Fire Damage? We can HELP! Available 24 Hours

301.350.0900 Water Damage Fire Damage Rebuild Specialist Sewer Backup Expert Mold Remediation

Bio-hazard Clean-up Major Loss Experts Expert Carpet, Flooring & Upholstery Cleaning 20 years of experience serving District residents!

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 45

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

jazzAvenues by Steve Monroe

Rahmat honors Idris

Charles “Rahmat Shabazz” Woods, the D.C. areabased saxophonist, flutist, bandleader and composer honors Idris Muhammad, known for his “broad, inclusive” funk to swing body of work, this month with a special show at Vicino’s in Silver Spring. Brought to you by vocalist and impresario Chad Carter, Monday Night at Vicino’s on Nov. 17 features the Charles Rahmat Woods Quartet Plus performing a “Tribute to Idris Muhammad.” Great shows – many of them sold-out, so get your tickets early -- have been featured at Vicino’s thanks to the Carter family for more than 10 years now, and this one at 7 p.m. that night is Woods’ debut at Vicino’s. “I met drummer Idris Muhammad personally, years ago through his association with the great pianist Ahmad Jamal,” said Woods in an email. “Of course, I was aware of his music and sound long before that … he seemed to have brought a smoother “Soul-Jazz” style to the records I heard him on (Lou Donaldson, Pharoah Sanders, Grant Green, etc). His passing last July was publically noted, but there did not seem to be much musical acknowledgement of his contribution. I decided that a concert that included some of Idris’s compositions and favorites would be a worthy tribute … and I am happy to bring my band to Silver Spring’s premier Jazz showcase venue.” Woods said his group is to include drummer Kevin Atkins from Harlem, Memphis keyboardist Derek Gasque, D.C./Va. tenor saxophonist Harun Akbar, and “Silver Spring’s own” Eliot Seppa on bass. Woods says of meeting Muhammad, “… I found that we shared a certain ‘360 degree’ appreciation when it came to the categorization of our music.” Woods’ own range of genres can be sampled on his recordings, from the more traditional mainstream on the “Live at the Half Shell” CD to the freer, more provocative yet imminently colorful sounds on his “DC Love Orchestra” CD to his most recent “Language of Birds” recording, a meditative, spiritual journey for the mind. Woods has performed on flute or saxophone with Roy Haynes, Helen Humes, Don Cherry and many other notables. A graduate of Syracuse University, he has conducted jazz workshops and 46 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

served as a music panelist for the Maryland State Arts Council. See www.rahmatshabazz.com for more on Woods. Vicino’s, a cozy room featuring fine Italian cuisine, is at 959 Sligo Avenue in Silver Spring. Call (240) 704-9916 or (202)670-0095 or go to www. jazzknights.com, for more info. Advance tickets are $20 and space is limited.

Rusty talks the “Giants”

Our WPFW-FM Pacifica Radio programmer and music historian and scholar Rusty Hassan appears at another of Maryland’s special venues at 2 p.m. Nov. 9 at the Montpelier Arts Center in Laurel, when he will discuss “Jazz Giants of Washington, D.C.” Hassan’s presentation is to include prominent musicians “who have called D.C. home besides Duke Ellington,” including Billy Taylor, Charlie Rouse, Shirley Horn, Buck Hill, Andrew White, Keter Betts and Rick Henderson. In addition, excerpts will be featured from the documentaries “Oxygen for the Ears: Living Jazz” and “Seventh and T.” The Montpelier Arts Center is at 9652 Muirkirk Road in Laurel. Call 301-4902329 for more information. Also in November, noted improviser and creative bassist Mario Pavone appears with his Pulse Quintet, that includes D.C.’s edgy and innovative saxist Brian Settles, in Baltimore Nov. 12 at the Windup Space, 12 W. North Avenue (www.thewindupspace. com); and then in D.C. at Bohemian Caverns for a Transparent Productions show Nov. 16. And, the dynamic Bobby Felder Big Band is back Nov. 28 at Westminster Presbyterian Church. November Highlights: ... Romeir Mendez Quartet/Terrell Stafford, Tim Warfield, Nov. 8, Bohemian Caverns ... Larry Brown Quintet, Nov. 8, 49 West/Annapolis ... Jazz Talk: “Jazz Giants of Washington, D.C.” with Rusty Hassan, Nov. 9, Montpelier Arts Center/Laurel ... Buster Williams Quartet, Nov. 9, Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club ... Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra, Nov. 10, 17, 25, Bohemian Caverns ... Univ. of Md. Chamber Jazz, Nov. 11-12, Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center ... Eliane Elias, Nov. 13-16, Blues Alley ... The Amazing Earl Wilson, Nov. 14,

Saxophonist Brian Settles appears with Mario Pavone’s Pulse Quintet in the Transparent Productions show Nov. 16 at Bohemian Caverns. Photo: Brian Settles

Westminster Presbyterian Church ... Transparent Productions/Mario Pavone’s Pulse Quintet, Nov. 16, Bohemian Caverns ... Count Basie Orchestra, Nov. 19, Bethesda Blues & Jazz ... Jamie Broumas, Nov. 19, Blues Alley ... Rene Marie, Nov. 20, Bethesda Blues & Jazz ... Larry Brown Quintet, Nov. 21-22, Twins Jazz ... Tony Martucci Quintet, Nov. 22, An Die Musik/Baltimore ... Winard Harper & Jeli Posse, Nov. 25, Blues Alley ... Indigo Love “An Evenings with Sarah Vaughan,” Nov. 26, Blues Alley ... Bobby Felder Big Band, Nov. 28, Westminster ... November Birthdays: Lou Donaldson 1; Phil Woods 2; Arturo Sandoval 6; Hubert Laws 10; Ernestine Anderson 11; Sam Jones 12; Hampton Hayes, Idris Muhammad 13; W.C. Handy 16; Don Cherry 18; Coleman Hawkins 21; Teddy Wilson 24; Paul Desmond, Nat Adderley 25; Randy Brecker 27; Gato Barbieri 28; Billy Strayhorn 29. u

CHANGING HANDS

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

THEY SERVED OUR COUNTRY TO PROTECT US. LET’S SUPPORT THEM! This CFC season consider giving back to a veteran who has given so much to us. We have been a place of transition for hundreds of chronically homeless veterans. Providing veterans with a new home and a new beginning. Proudly celebrating 11 years of service.

9533

22663

For more information on how you can assist, please call

202.561.VETS (8387)

Neighborhood

Price

FEE SIMPLE ANACOSTIA

1704 16TH ST SE #1-4 2010 14TH ST SE 1514 V ST SE 1438 V ST SE 1420 RIDGE PL SE 1310 S ST SE

CHILLUM

5623 3RD ST NW

CONGRESS HEIGHTS

1135 BELLEVUE ST SE 206 MALCOLM X AVE SE 3319 6TH ST SE 865 XENIA ST SE 417 ATLANTIC ST SE 136 ELMIRA ST SW 4065 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVE SW 3615 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVE SE 620 GALVESTON ST SE 662 BRANDYWINE ST SE

DEANWOOD

314 47TH ST NE 832 50TH PL NE 128 35TH ST NE 6126 BANKS PL NE 105 49TH PL NE 5232 KARL PL NE 230 55TH ST NE 4224 GAULT PL NE 124 36TH ST NE 5076 JAY ST NE 3802 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 243 55TH ST NE 4502 JAY ST NE 533 59TH ST NE

4604 NANNIE HELEN BURROUGHS AVE NE 5061 JAY ST NE

FORT DUPONT PARK $444,000 $377,000 $347,000 $310,000 $292,000 $205,000

8 3 3 2 3 3

$449,000

$287,500 $275,000 $267,500 $257,000 $215,000 $200,000 $190,000 $140,000 $118,500 $109,518

4 3 3 3 4 3 2 3 3 3

$310,000 $265,000 $255,000 $250,000 $250,000 $245,000 $230,000 $220,000 $219,900 $171,000 $170,000 $155,500 $155,000 $137,500

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

1545 FORT DUPONT ST SE 3926 C ST SE 4343 F ST SE 3330 B ST SE 4336 G ST SE

HILL CREST

3050 Q ST SE 2916 S ST SE 3433 HIGHWOOD DR SE 2519 MINNESOTA AVE SE 1613 27TH ST SE 1604 25TH ST SE

MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5125 D ST SE 5540 BASS PL SE 5540 BASS PL SE

RANDLE HEIGHTS 1523 25TH ST SE

$92,000 $79,000

3 2

$285,750 $275,000 $210,000 $199,900 $140,000

3 3 2 3 2

$600,000 $414,600 $385,000 $350,000 $345,000 $214,500

4 4 3 3 3 3

$305,000 $100,000 $100,000

4 2 2

$432,000

$50,000

$67,000 $65,000

1 2

$159,950 $108,000

3 2

ROOFING Shingles • Metal • Slate • Slag • rubber

$57,143

GUTTER REPAIR & REPLACEMENT Aluminum • Copper • Galvanized

CONDO CONGRESS HEIGHTS 12 HALLEY PL SE #12-103

DEANWOOD

4208 BENNING RD NE #2 944 EASTERN AVE NE #1

HILL CREST

2116 SUITLAND TER SE #A 2028 37TH ST SE #A

RANDLE HEIGHTS

2835 GAINESVILLE ST SE #102 u

Est.

A A 1

197

Lic.#410514000532 Lic.#9360

Roofing Co. 301.736.8987 aaroofingco@aol.com FREE ESTIMATES

$100 OFF ANY NEW ROOF

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 47

KIDS & FAMILY

Kids & Family Notebook by Kathleen Donner

Ground Broken on New Marvin Gaye Playground

On Oct. 10, Mayor Gray, Ward 7 Councilmember Alexander, other city officials and community leaders broke ground on the new Marvin Gaye Playground at 6201 Banks Pl. NE. The playground is the first of three phases of the overall Marvin Gaye recreation project, with a new trail in Phase 2 and a new recreation center in Phase 3. The playgroundâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme will focus on the music and legacy of the late musician and District native, Marvin Gaye. The playground will be shaped like a grand piano, featuring a piano-key pavilion, performance space, a new stormwater-management feature and musically themed playground equipment for ages 2-5 and 5-12. In addition, the playground will feature a new splash pad with musically themed spray equipment.

School Supplies Donated by Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church

Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE, joined with the community to donate back-to-school supplies and monetary support to the students of Burrville Elementary School. In addition, Sargent

offers opportunities for members of the community to get involved in their Boy Scout troop, dance program, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orchestra, tutoring program, SHARE program (reduced priced food), and Meals on Wheels.

Baby Lap Time for Teen Parents at Capitol View Library

On Saturdays, Nov. 15 and 29, 3 p.m., parents and their babies are invited to enjoy simple reading, rhymes, music, crafts and movement. Open to children ages birth to 3 years old with caregiver. Capitol View Neighborhood Library, 5001 Central Ave. SE. 202-645-0755. dclibrary.org/capitolview

Community Leaders are Readers

This popular ongoing program, a joint Anacostia Community Museum and DC Public Library collaboration, is open to parents and their children up to 7 years to enjoy books and reading with local leaders. Children participate in a hands-on activity led by a professional artist and create an art take-away. Community Leaders are Readers is on Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Anacostia Neighborhood Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. dclibrary.org/ anacostia

48 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Photo: Courtesy of Friends of Kenilworth Park

Family Volunteer Day at Kenilworth Park

Family Volunteer Day at Kenilworth Park is on Saturday, Nov. 15 (rain or shine). This service project will start at 9 a.m. with on-site registration. Please arrive no later than 9:45 a.m. so everyone can start promptly at 10 a.m. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is at 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. The park has ample free, off-street parking and is metro accessible (Deanwood). They will have granola bars or other light snacks for volunteers. Please bring a water bottle. All volunteers are strongly urged to wear clothing appropriate for the work at hand--long sleeve shirts, long pants, and no open toe shoes. Gloves and all equipment will be provided. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For additional information, visit friendsofkenilworthgardens.org.

Moms On The Hill

2014 School Information Night

[ SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7TH ] [ 2:00â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5:00 PM ]

[ CAPITOL HILL DAY SCHOOL ] [ 210 SOUTH CAROLINA AVENUE SE ] The closest Metro stop is Capitol South on the blue and orange lines Preschool, Public, Charter, Private, Catholic/Parochial, Middle Schools, High Schools and other programs. Come see all of your options! More Info:

[DOWNEYSCHOOLCONSULTING@GMAIL.COM] ALL PARENTS (including non-members) ARE WELCOME Organized by MoTH (Moms on the Hill)

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 49

KIDS & FAMILY

Kids On Ice Winter Program Registration Opens

Registration opens on Nov. 15 for Winter Kids on Ice. Fort Dupont Ice Arena is home to Kids On Ice, a community ice skating program for children ages 5-18, offering free lessons with all equipment provided. Instructors include qualified volunteers under the direction of professional figure skating, ice hockey and speed skating experts. The Kids On Ice Program has six components: Basic Skills; Speed Skating; Figure Skating; Ice Hockey; Schools Skate for Fitness; and Freestyle Practice Sessions. Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. NE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org KOI winter resgistration opens Nov. 15.

New Youth ReEngagement Center Opens

Youth ReEngagement Center has opened at the Department of Employment Services, 4058 Minnesota Ave. NE (2nd floor, room 2304A). The DC Youth ReEngagement Center is an initiative of the Office of the State Superintendent of Education. It serves as a “single-door” through which out-of-school youth can reconnect to educational options and other critical services to support their attainment of a high school diploma or equivalency, college or a career. Currently, more than 7,400 District youth, ages 16-24, are not enrolled in school and do not have a high school diploma or GED. The ReEngagement Center strategically leverages partnerships to coordinate with other services to remove barriers and support these disconnected young people.

Children’s Movie Night at Francis A. Gregory Library

Every Monday night at 6:30 p.m., join them in the children’s room for weekly movie screenings of 50 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

new family films and classic favorites. Recommended for families and children ages 4-12. Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library, 3660 Alabama Ave. SE. 202-6986373. dclibrary.org/francis

“Season’s Greenings” at the Botanic Garden

Despite the cold winter outside, the US Botanic Garden Conservatory boasts a tropical paradise, one of the largest indoor decorated trees in Washington, DC, a poinsettia showcase and a grove of conifer trees. It wouldn’t be the winter holiday season without the fantasy train display in the East Gallery, which chugs along a track through imaginative structures created with plant materials. Many of DC’s landmark buildings, all made from natural materials, will be on display in the Garden Court. Come in from the cold and enjoy the sights, scents and sounds of Season’s Greenings. Open daily, Thanksgiving Day through Jan. 4, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., with extended hours and live music on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8 p.m. US Botanic Garden,

100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-2258333. usbg.gov

Thanksgiving Family Festival at the American Art Museum

Every Turkey Day celebration needs a well-dressed table. On Saturday, Nov. 15, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., start at the museum and make customized Thanksgiving Day decorations to display. Learn to contra dance with a live band while creating a centerpiece, or take a scavenger hunt in the galleries and find inspiration from America’s artists. Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th and F Sts. NW. americanart.si.edu

Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger Kids’ One Mile Fun Run

On Thanksgiving Day, join them in supporting the hungry and homeless in Washington, DC by participating in the 13th Annual Thanksgiving Day Trot for Hunger. Proceeds from the 5K benefit thousands of homeless families and single adults, including the elderly and people suffering from mental

illness, by providing much-needed food, clothing and healthcare. The only turkey trot in the District, the Trot for Hunger is a tradition for thousands of area residents and a meaningful way to remember people in need on Thanksgiving Day. The Fun Run begins at 8:30 a.m. To participate, each child and/or adult must be registered for the Official 5K. 202-797-8806 ext.1093. soome.convio.net

Virginia Williams Family Resource Center Relocated

The Virginia Williams Family Resource Center has moved to, 920 Rhode Island Ave. NE. The center is an integrated service center for families experiencing housing instability. The joint initiative includes the Department of Human Services, the Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness, and the Coalition for the Homeless. Partner agencies provide on-site services such as assistance with school registration, child support services, and unified case planning. The goal of the integration of services is to better address the

APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR Pre-K to 3rd grade

Building on our strong foundation as an early childhood program

Open Houses on the following Thursdays, 9:30 am-10:30 am*:

January 22 &29 February 19 & 26 March 19 & 26 * You must register to attend. Call (202) 726-1843, limit of 20 people per session.

Apply for admissions at: www.myschooldc.org • Application deadline March 2, 2015.

Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools Voted Best Preschool in DC,City Paper Readers Poll 2013! • Before & After Care • Small classroom size and well trained staff • Individual planning for each student • Hands-on and project-based curriculum Free and open to all DC residents.Tuition paid by non-residents.

Bridges PCS is an expanding elementary school growing to serve grades Pre-K–5th by 2017-2018.

www.bridgespcs.org 1250 Taylor Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011 p: 202.726.1843 e: info@bridgespcs.org

www.bridgespcs.org EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 51

needs of homeless families with children.

Saturday Morning at the National Free Performances for Children

On Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. there are free live performances for children in the Helen Hayes Gallery. Tickets are required and distributed first come-first seated. Tickets are distributed 1/2 hour prior to performance. One ticket per person in line. The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave., NW. 202-7833372. Here’s the line-up. Nov. 8, Lesole’s Dance Project; Nov, 15, Michael Shwedick--Reptile World; Nov. 22, Mary Ann Jung-Feasting with the Queen; Dec. 6, Virginia Ballet Company and School Selections from The Nutcracker; Dec. 13, Bright Theater-Christmas with Santa. Read more at thenationaldc.org.

Capital City Symphony Family Concert “Hansel and Gretel” at the Atlas

The Capital City Symphony Family Concert “Hansel and Gretel” is a semi-staged concert opera with Mary Gresock as Gretel, Rebecca Henry as Hansel, Grace Gori as Mother and Witch, Neil Ewachiw as Father, and Ellen Kliman as Sandman and Dew Fairy. Performances on Nov. 22, 7:30 p.m. (full version, for adults and older children) and Nov. 23, 4 p.m. (one hour version for younger audiences). Tickets are $25. Students, any age with ID, are $15. Children under 16 are free. Purchase tickets online at atlasarts.org.

“Fiddler on the Roof” Family Fun Pack

“Fiddler on the Roof ” is at Arena Stage through Jan. 4. With the Family Fun Pack, purchase four seats for only $125. Groups must include a minimum of two patrons between ages 5-17 per Fun Pack; cannot be combined with any other offer or applied to previously purchased tickets; limit 52 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

two Fun Packs per household. All standard fees apply. Must be purchased by phone or in person. arenastage.org

Our American Girl at Mount Vernon

On Saturday, Nov. 15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., American Girl enthusiasts are invited to bring their favorite doll for a special youth tour of the estate with Mount Vernon’s own American girl, “Nelly Custis.” Enjoy refreshments with “Lady Washington” and try a colonial craft. Tickets are $30 and are required for both adults and children. mountvernon.org

Family Day at Gadsby’s Tavern Museum

On Sunday, Nov. 9, 1-4 p.m., all families are invited to tour the historic Alexandria tavern with Junior Docents (volunteers from grades 4 through 7), who share their enthusiasm for history. Let children be inspired by their peers as they tour the tavern where George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and others made history. No reservations necessary. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children (ages 5-12); free for veterans and active duty military and their immediate families. Gadsby’s Tavern Museum is at 134 N. Royal St., Alexandria, VA. 703-7464242. gadsbystavern.org u

Get Your East of the River Location

Address

River Terrace Rec Center & Elemantary School CVS - East River Park Safeway – NE 6th District Police Dept - Main Ward Memorial AME Kennilworth Elementary School Unity East of the River Health Center First Baptist Church of Deanwood Deanwood Public Library Hughes Memorial United Methodist Capitol Gateway Senior Apts Marvin Gaye Rec Center Watts Branch Recreation Center Langston Community Library Anacostia Neighborhood Library Benning Branch Library Marshall Heights CDC Kelly Miller Recreation Center Tabernacle baptist Church Randall Memorial Baptist Church East Capital Church of christ Seat Pleasant CARE Pharmacy 7-Eleven Riverside Center Mayfair Mansions Citibank: East River Park Chartered Health Center NE Vending Machines – Deanwood Metro The Minnicks Market Lederer Gardens Suburban Market Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church Dave Brown Liquors Dave Brown Liquor A & S Grocery St Rose Pentecostal Church Malcolm X Rec Center St More Catholic Church Fort Davis Recreation Center Ferebee Hope Recreation Center Emanuel Baptist Church IHOP Restauarant Giant Food Store SunTrust Bank Parklands-Turner Community Library Manor Village Apartments Leasing Office Garfield Elementary

MIDCITY

FA G O N C O M M U N I T Y G U I D E

420 34th St , NE 320 40th St , NE 322 40th St , NE 100 42nd St , NE 240 42nd St NE 1300 44th ST NE 123 45th ST NE 1008 45th St NE 1350 49th ST NE 25 53rd St NE 201 58th St , NE 6201 Banks Pl NE 6201 Banks St , NE 2600 Benning Rd , NE 1800 Good Hope Road SE 3935 Benning Rd NE 3939 Benning Rd , NE 4900 Brooks St , NE 719 Division Ave NE 4417 Douglas St NE 5026 E Capitol St NE 350 Eastern Ave , NE 950 Eastern AVE NE 5200 Foote St , NE 3744 ½ Hayes St NE 3917 Minnesota Ave , NE 3924 Minnesota Ave , NE 4720 Minnesota Ave , NE 4401 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE 4800 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave NE 4600 Sherriff Rd NE 4601 Sheriff Road NE 4721 Sheriff Road Northeast 4721 Sherriff Rd NE 4748 Sheriff Rd NE 4816 Sherriff Rd NE 3200 13th st SE 4275 4th St SE 1400 41st St , SE 3999 8th St , SE 2409 Ainger Place SE 1523 Alabama Ave, SE 1535 Alabama Ave , SE 1571 Alabama Ave , SE 1547 Alabama Ave , SE 1717 Alabama Ave , SE 2435 Alabama Ave

7th District Station 2455 Alabama Ave , SE 6th District Police Dept - Satellite Station 2839 Alabama Ave , SE Service Cleaners 2841 Alabama Ave , SE Safeway – SE 2845 Alabama Ave SE Pizza Hut 2859 Alabama Ave , SE America’s Best Wings 2863 Alabama Ave , SE M&T Bank 2865 Alabama Ave , SE Washington Senior Wellness Center 3001 Alabama Ave , SE St Timothys Episcopal Church 3601 Alabama Ave SE Francis A Gregory Neighborhood Library 3660 Alabama Ave , SE National Capital Parks--EAST 1900 Anacostia Dr , SE Kid smiles 4837 Benning Road SE Pimento Grill 4405 Bowen Rd SE East Washington Heights Baptist Church 2220 Branch Ave ,SE St Johns Baptist Church 5228 Call Place SE Capitol View Branch Library 5001 Central Ave , SE Marie Winston Elementary School 3100 Denver St , SE Subway 4525 East Capitol St Our Lady Queen of Peace Church 3800 Ely Pl , SE Anacostia Museum for African Amer History 1901 Fort Pl SE - Back Door Smithsonian Anacostia Marcia Burris 1901 Fort Place SE - Back Door DC Center for Therapeutic Recreation 3030 G ST SE ARCH 1227 Good Hope Rd , SE Anacostia Pizzeria 1243 Good Hope Rd , SE SunTrust Bank 1340 Good Hope Rd , SE Unity Health Care Inc 1638 Good Hope Rd , SE Bread for the City 1640 Good Hope Rd , SE Marbury Plaza Tenants Assoc 2300 Good Hope Rd , SE Dollar Plus Supermarket 1453 Howard Rd , SE Ascensions Psychological and Community Services 1526 Howard Rd SE Dupont Park SDA Church 3985 Massachusettes Ave SE Orr Elementary School 2200 Minnesota Ave SE Hart Recreation Center 601 Mississippi Ave , SE Southeast Tennis and Learning Center 701 Mississippi Ave , SE The ARC 1901 Mississippi Ave , SE Neighborhood Pharmacy 1932 Martin Luther King Jr , SE PNC Bank 2000 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Bank of America 2100 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE C Aidan Salon 2100 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Big Chair Coffee 2122 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE Animal Clinic of Anacostia 2210 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Max Robinson Center of Whitman-Walker Clinic 2301 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE The United Black Fund 2500 Martin Luther King Ave SE The Pizza Place 2910 Martin Luther King Ave SE Metropol Educational Services, 3rd Floor 3029 Marin Luther King Jr Ave , SE National Children’s Center - Southeast Campus 3400 Martin Luther King Jr , SE Assumption Catholic Church 3401 Martin Luther King Ave SE Congress Heights Senior Wellness Center 3500 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE Congress Heights Health Center 3720 Martin Luther King Jr Ave , SE CVS - Skyland 2646 Naylor Rd , SE Harris Teeter 1350 Pennsylvania Ave SE Thai Orchid Kitchen 2314 Pennsylvania Ave SE St Francis Xavier Church 2800 Pennsylvania Ave SE

Pennsylvania Ave Baptist Church CVS – Penn Branch Congress Heights Recreation Center Johnson Memorial Baptist Church Ridge Recreation Center Savoy Recreation Center PNC Bank Rite Aid United Medical Center Benning Park Community Center Benning Stoddert Recreation Center Union Temple Baptist Church Senior Living at Wayne Place Washington Highlands Neighborhood Library Bald Eagle At Fort Greble Covenant Baptist Church Faith Presbyterian Church Henson Ridge Town Homes Office The Wilson Building CCN office Eastern Market YMCA Capitol View CW Harris Elementary School DC Child & Family Services Agency

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

For more distribution locations, contact 202.543.8300 x.19 EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 53

KIDS & FAMILY

Boy Scout Improves Fort Stanton for Eagle Scout Project article by Charnice A. Milton & photos by Greyson Acquaviva

The Project

The first part of the project involved removing English Ivy and other invasive species. To help Scouts identify which plants to remove and which to avoid, Acquaviva provided Poison and English Ivy ID cards. According to Acquaviva’s project website, the volunteers left a 10 foot buffer zone on either side of the trail in order to “...create a specific area where invasive plants are removed so that the native plants will benefit from the space provided.” While he planned for a three-hour shift for each volunteer on the Saturday and two hours on Sunday, Acquaviva stated that they reached the 9,000 squarefoot removal goal in one day. “We still went back the next day and did more,” he said. The second part involved building and installing five water bars. A water bar is a structure made from wood and stones to help divert water

Greyson Acquaviva (center) addresses members of the Georgetown chapter of Alpha Phi Omega and Boy Scout Troop 1650.

reyson Acquaviva lives a few blocks away from Fort Stanton. Built in 1861, Fort Stanton was built to protect the city, particularly the Navy Yard, from the Confederate Army during the Civil War. “If the Confederates were able to get by that fort, the Union probably would have lost,” Acquaviva told the One City Youth blog. However, the fort did not see battle and was abandoned in 1865. Today, Fort Stanton is part of the Civil War Defenses of Washington; however, the park and hiking trails surrounding have fallen victim to erosion and invasive plant species, like English Ivy. On October 18 and 19, Acquaviva led 198 volunteers in removing English Ivy from over 9,000 square feet of park and installed five water bars for his Eagle Scout project.

Background

In his seven years with Boy Scouts Capitol Hill Troop 500, Acqua54 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

viva has become the Assistant Patrol Leader and reached the Life Scout rank. After six months, a Life Scout has the opportunity to become an Eagle Scout, the highest Boy Scout rank. One of the requirements involves planning and executing a service project that benefits the community. “Once the Scout has put together a plan, he needs to present his project and plan to the Troop committee and a representative from the local council,” Michael Ryan, Troop 500’s Eagle Coordinator and Coach explained. “Once approved, the Scout can begin working on the project.” Initially, Acquaviva proposed creating signage for the Hiker-Biker Trail, also known as Fort Stanton Mile Marker 1.2. On July 1, 2013, he received an email from National Park Service (NPS) District Manager Julie Kutruff. “She wrote that ‘Unfortunately we are underway with a big project to do quite a bit of restoration work along the Hiker-Biker Trail

Hillcrest resident Greyson Acquaviva is a member of Boy Scout Capitol Hill Troop 500. To fulfill his Eagle Scout Project requirement, he spearheaded a weekend effort to install five water banks, clear invasive species of plants, and clean the trail surround Fort Stanton.

and we have all new way-finding signage for all of the trailheads that will be put in sometime this summer by a contractor,’” Aquaviva wrote in his online progress log. However, Kutruff stated suggested addressing erosion and other trail work issues. “Looking back, I think my project turned out better,” Acquaviva remarked.

from trails and into more stable areas. According to Acquaviva’s website, the job required four to six volunteers and two supervising Scouts. After a short demonstration, Acquaviva supervised the volunteers. “No one did anything wrong,” he reported, “but I did point out some minor issues.” This part of the project was complet-

ed in four hours. The final part of the project fulfilled the idea that a Scout should leave someplace better than when he found it. In the final three-hour shift on October 19, the volunteers created a “police line” to remove tools and trash. “You wouldn’t believe what we found,” Acquaviva stated. During the clean-up the volunteers removed two tires, a rotted full-length coat, postProhibition bottles, two coinoperated washing machine tops, a hubcap, a kid’s ride-on car.

Volunteers

Throughout the weekend, Acquaviva received help from Georgetown University’s Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed service fraternity, Boy Scout Troop 1650 (based out of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, located on Alabama Avenue), and other Hillcrest residents who passed by. “When Scoutmaster [Melvin] Horne [of Troop 1650] forwarded me Greyson Acquaviva, from Capitol Hill Scouts Troop 500, asking for volunteers for his Eagle Scout project, I was extremely excited,” stated Michael Gee, a member of Alpha Phi Omega and an Eagle Scout. “Scouting played a huge role in my life and it has been awesome having the opportunity to give back to an organization that has given me so much.”

H y p e r L o c a l | hīpər

. lōk(ə)l |

Hyperlocal connotes information oriented around a well defined community with its primary focus directed toward the concerns of its residents. synonym: eastoftheriverdcnews.com Daily online. Monthly in print.

Future Hopes

In his interview with the One City Youth Blog, Acquaviva stated that as a result of his project, he hoped that “...people will go to this park a lot more and make sure it is well maintained.” While he plans to check on the water banks and clean the trails every few months, he hopes that residents will do the same. “Hillcrest is our community,” he said. “We must do what we can to keep it clean.” To learn more about Greyson Acquaviva’s Eagle Scout Project, visit www.myeaglescoutproject.com/ u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 H 55

To place a classified in East of the River, please call Carolina at Capital Community News, Inc. 202.543.3503 or email Carolina@hillrag.com

CLEANING SERVICES

ROOFING

PAINTING

HEATING & AIR

S TANDARD C LEANING S ERVICE I NC . Commercial & Residential

Ana Julia Viera 703.719.9850 • 703.447.9254 Days Free Estimates • Bonded & Insured References Upon Request 15% Discount New Customers

ELECTRICIAN

FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST

MASONRY

WE STOP LEAKS! • Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Rubber • Metal • Slate

CHIMNEY REPOINTING, LINING & REPAIRS!

HALLIDAY CONCRETE & BRICKPOINTING

We Do Everything!

Historic Masonry Repointing & Repairs

BOYD CONSTRUCTION INC.

Restoration cleaning on historical brick and stone

LIC. BONDED. INS

Serving D.C. since 1918

202.637.8808 Licensed, Bonded & Insured, DC

Just Say I Need A Plumber®

Dial A Plumber, LLC®

• Licensed Gas Fitter • Water Heater • Boiler Work • Serving DC • References John • Drain Service • Furness Repair & Replacement

Licensed Bonded Insured

L U M M E R

Keith Roofing

EXPERT WORKMANSHIP

REASONABLE PRICES!

Residential/Commercial • Over 40 years in Business Chimney Repairs • Storm & Wind Damage Repair

• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen • Ask about our gutter specials Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service

Kenny

202-251-1479 DC P

56 ★ EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

BBB

202-223-ROOF (7663)

PLUMBING

Experts in both in new and traditional masonry NO Job Too Small! We Do it All!!

75 years in service

Member

Basements & Waterproofing

SUPPORT YOUR NEIGHBORS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES!

• Tiles • Chimneys • Gutters • Waterproofing • Roof Certifications

’

I C E N S E

#707

Fully Insured • Licensed • Bonded “No Job Too Large or Small” Senior & Military Discounts Available!

202-486-7359

All Work Inspected by Owner...Deals Directly with Customers! All Work Fully Guaranteed

WELDING

Get the Most for Your Advertising Dollars.

MAKE YOUR BUSINESS SUCCESSFUL!

contact CAROLINA at

202.400.3503 carolina@hillrag.com

WE WILL BEAT YOUR BEST PRICE New Roofs, Maintenance & Repairs Seamless Gutters Experts Stopping Leaks is our Specialty!

WE DO IT ALL!

202.637.8808 Licensed, bonded & Insured, DC

Our website just got a whole lot better!! capitalcommunitynews.com

G G ROOFING

AWARDED BEST WASHINGTON, DC CONTRACTOR OF 2012 BY ANGIE’S LIST FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • “50 YEARS EXPERIENCE”

Flat Roof Specialists Modified Bitumen • Skylights • Shingles • Slate • •

Chimney Repairs Roof Coatings • Gutters & Downspouts • Preventive Maintenance • Metal Roofs • •

10% OFF WITH THIS AD

202.425.1614

BOX CLASSIFIEDS (quarterly)

2”x 2” 2.5” 3” 4” 5” 7”

$150 $180 $225 $300 $360 $400

• Ad design free of charge with one revision. • Rates are per publication.

LINE CLASSIFIEDS (monthly) $25 for the first 15 words, 25¢ for each additional word. Bold heading (25 characters max) is free.

Capital Community News, Inc.

Hill Rag | Midcity DC | East of the River | Fagon Community Guides *Prepayment by check or credit card is required.

WWW.GANDGHOMEIMPROVEMENTS.NET

Licensed & Insured | All Work Managed & Inspected by Owners

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2014 ★ 57

Matter of Integrity

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

by Myles Mellor Across:

1. Sweet confection 7. One-celled critters 13. Rush about 20. Ring of color 21. Jazz star 22. Center of a roast 23. Dropping the facade 26. Glazier’s unit 27. For a song 28. Gossipmonger 29. Inscribed pillar 31. Place to trade 32. Sapporo sash 34. Kooky 37. Abzug 39. Finnish moolah, once 42. Fan 44. Allegory 48. Plane-jumping G.I. 49. Laughable 51. Part of a ﬁnancial portfolio 55. Absorb unconsciously 56. Revenues 57. Haunt 58. Meat cuts 59. Animal life 60. Memorial Day solo 62. Bladed weapon 63. Strains 64. DVD button 66. Act the blowhard 70. Municipality in France 71. Big brass 72. Narrow gorge 73. Fails to 77. Trouble-maker 80. Relative 81. Avoided causing offence 84. Demesnes 85. Gym set 86. Rolls up 87. Superstars 88. City on the Aire 90. Ocean phenomenon 92. Cooking meas. 93. Census datum 94. Asian tongue 95. 1965 march site 100. U.N. arm

102. Old wind instruments 107. Booty 108. Starts successfully 113. Part of a place setting 114. Gently sloping ridge 115. Hindu doctrine 116. Loose cloak 117. Catch, as in a net 118. More thick

Down:

1. Metal fasteners 2. Nirvana attainer 3. Western director Sergio 4. “Wheel of Fortune” purchase 5. Will Smith title role 6. Full house, e.g. 7. Ethically indifferent 8. “Om,” e.g. 9. Choice 10. “Poppycock!” 11. Advance amount 12. Blood ﬂuids 13. H. Rider Haggard novel 14. Spherical bacteria 15. Buffalo 16. Drop down? 17. For 18. Always, in verse 19. ___ gestae 24. Vodka cocktail 25. Atop 30. “The Sound of Music” ﬁgure 33. Civil rights concern 34. Sheeplike 35. Auto damage 36. Shift, e.g. 38. If not 39. Bangladesh dough 40. Coastal raptors 41. Church section 42. Arms and legs 43. Teller’s stack 44. Drudge 45. “Belling the Cat” author 46. Asian perennial herb 47. Deserted 48. Grunts

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 50. Ore remover 52. Next to 53. Unwavering 54. Little sound 59. Big do 61. Long-eared beast 63. Name 64. Edge loops 65. Norwegian mathematician Niels 66. Makes indistinct 67. Maneuvers 68. Liturgical vestment 69. Rest room sign 70. Personae non gratae 71. Ambushes 72. Raids

73. Lived 74. Retreat 75. Bar in court 76. Pair of oxen 78. Flag 79. Put away 80. Deep sleep 82. Vacation destination 83. Solicitous 89. Montreal player 90. Summer attire 91. Outcast 93. Bulgaria’s capital 94. In ___ parts 96. Fey 97. Hovers

98. Wildlife photographer Peterson 99. Fragrant oil 100. George Harrison’s “___ It a Pity” 101. Squander 103. Years ago 104. Render speechless 105. Not us 106. Fish usually caught in the winter 108. Doublemint, e.g. 109. Sorority letter 110. Ring count 111. Winter woe 112. Article

4th Anniversary Party & Annual Staff Holiday Cookie Battle On Small Business Saturday,

November 29th

Come to enjoy cookies and shopping, and then vote for the best cookie!

58 ★ EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM