East of the River Magazine – July 2022 by Capital Community News

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N A C I R F A N A C I R E AM H E A LT H SPECIAL

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15 AFRICAN AMERICAN HEALTH SPECIAL 16 Maternal Mortality in the District: DC Works to Address Centuries of Structural Racism by Elizabeth O’Gorek

22 How’s DC Doing on COVID Vaccines? – DC to Enforce Immunization Requirement in Next School Year by Elizabeth O’Gorek 26 Children Must Vaccinate to Attend School by Reed Tuckson

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE 38 Meet Sharon Wise – Mental Health Advocator, Survivor, and Artist by Anthony D. Diallo

40 The East Washingtonian – The Words “Dog Park” Need Not Divide Us by Leniqua’dominique Jenkins orests by Catherine Plume

KIDS & FAMILY 42 Ballou High School Poets Have the Write Stuff

by Karen Lyon

44 Notebook

by Kathleen Donner

28 Our River: The Anacostia – Peaceful Summer Walks along Its Streams by Bill Matuszeski

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

IN EVERY ISSUE

30 Bulletin Board

04 54 55

by Kathleen Donner

36 Changing Hands

What’s on Washington The Crossword The Classifieds

by Don Denton

ON THE COVER: Jo Palmer and her daughter.

Courtesy: J. Palmer See page 16.

Capital Community News, Inc. Publisher of: Capital Community News, Inc. PO Box 15477, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 www.capitalcommunitynews.com www.hillrag.com

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EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissa.ashabranner@gmail.com MANAGING EDITOR: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com PUBLISHER: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2022 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

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WHAT’S ON W A S H I N G T O N KENILWORTH PARK AND AQUATIC GARDENS LOTUS & WATERLILY FESTIVAL

Experience the annual blooming of lotus and water lily flowers and enjoy music and dance performances, arts and crafts, ranger-led tours and more. The festival will begin July 9 and continue every weekend for the month of July. To celebrate the return of an in-person festival and create a more manageable experience for both the community and visitors, the 2022 Lotus and Water Lily Festival will be split into four weekends each with a specific focus and events. Weekend of July 9-10, art; weekend of July 16-17, health parks; weekend of July 2324, nature and environment; weekend of July 30-31, community. In addition to a larger festival, the park will extend hours until 8 p.m. each Saturday. On Wednesdays, the park will feature kid’s programs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. such as art activities, a drumming class and other hands-on nature activities. nps.gov/keaq.

ANCIENT YEMEN: INCENSE, ART AND TRADE AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ASIAN ART

AMERICAN PROPHET: FREDERICK DOUGLASS IN HIS OWN WORDS

Charles Randolph-Wright (Arena’s Born for This: The BeBe Winans Story, Broadway’s Motown the Musical) returns to Arena Stage with a groundbreaking musical powered by Frederick Douglass’ own speeches and writings. Coupled with soaring new melodies and an original script from Grammy Award-winning songwriter Marcus Hummon and Randolph-Wright, Douglass rises as a fierce abolitionist and distinguished orator. Filled with an electrifying new score, this world premiere celebrates the revolutionary legacy of one of history’s first freedom fighters, whose fire is needed now more than ever. $66 to $115. American Prophet: Frederick Douglass in His Own Words is at Arena Stage, 1101 Sixth St. SW, July 15 to Aug. 28. arenastage.org. 04

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Nestled in the southwestern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, Yemen became a major hub for the trade of incense during the first millennium BCE. This trade reached its climax between the first century BCE and the second century CE. Incense was traded by land and also by sea, reaching the Mediterranean world as well as ancient Iran and South Asia. This lucrative trade resulted in tremendous wealth and encouraged the patronage of elaborate architecture and distinctive works of art. The fine alabaster statues and metalworks display the masterful skills of artists from ancient Yemen, who blended local ideas and Greek and Roman inspirations into new creations, underscoring the region’s remarkable artistic and cultural cosmopolitanism. Opens Sept. 3 at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art. Asia.si.edu. Courtesy: Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, Smithsonian Institution

“The Insanity of Mary Girard” as performed by the Wandering Theatre Company, 2015

CAPITAL FRINGE FESTIVAL

After a two years absence, the Capital Fringe Festival is returning to one of DC’s most historic neighborhoods. This year you will find Fringe performances at Georgetown Park in the heart of commercial Georgetown. From July 14 to 17 and 21 to 24, over 250 theatre artists will perform sketch comedy, stand-up, documentary theatre, musical theatre, and cabaret with themes reflecting on what is happening in our world today such as the climate crisis, our relationship with our bodies, substance abuse, motherhood, the afterlife, marijuana in gentrifying DC, Palestine, cloning, identity, the pandemic, and much more. Find the schedule and $15 tickets at capitalfringe.org.

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LOC (NATIONAL FILM REGISTRY) MOVIES ON THE LAWN WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

The Library of Congress presents National Film Registry Movies on the Lawn on Thursdays: July 7, Top Gun; July 14, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory; July 21, Rocky; July 28, Mary Poppins; Aug. 4, Wall-E. Movies, on the corner of Second St. and Independence Ave. SE, will start at about 8:15 p.m. No tickets required but visitors are encouraged to arrive early as space is limited. This series is a feature of the new Library after hours experience, Live at the Library. From 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday evenings, visitors are invited to enjoy happy hour drinks and snacks available for purchase in the Great Hall overlooking the Capitol and the Thomas Jefferson Building’s beautiful architecture while immersing themselves in the Library’s exhibits, collections and programs. loc.gov.

WE ARE MADE OF STORIES: SELF-TAUGHT ARTISTS IN THE ROBSON FAMILY COLLECTION

We Are Made of Stories: Self-Taught Artists in the Robson Family Collection traces the rise of selftaught artists in the twentieth century and examines how, despite wide-ranging societal, racial, and gender-based obstacles, their creativity and bold self-definition became major forces in American art. The exhibition features recent gifts to the museum from two generations of collectors, Margaret Z. Robson and Douglas O. Robson. We Are Made of Stories is at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and G Streets NW through March 26, 2023. Open daily 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. americanart.si.edu. Dan Miller, Untitled (239_2016), 2016, acrylic and ink on paper, 52 × 142 in., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Robson Family Collection, Gift of Douglas O. Robson, 2022.3. Courtesy of Creative Growth, Photo: Matt Flynn © Smithsonian Institution

ACADEMY AT SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY’S SUMMER REP SEASON

The Academy at Shakespeare Theatre Company announces their Summer Rep Season. Join their talented group of students, from July 5 to 23, as they perform the culmination of a year of intensive training with this exciting season of dark Jacobean debauchery, nineteenth-century intrigue, and Elizabethan redemption at Theater XX @ GWU, 814 20th St. NW. Tickets ($15) and schedule are at shakespearetheatre.org/events. Here’s the lineup: Tis Pity She’s A Whore by John Ford; Hedda Gabbler by Henrik Ibsen; and The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare.

AMERICAN DEMOCRACY: A GREAT LEAP OF FAITH

What happens when a people decide to govern themselves? America’s national treasures come to life in this compelling exhibition that examines the bold experiment to create a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith explores the history of citizen participation, debate, and compromise from the nation’s formation to today. Through objects such as Thomas Jefferson’s portable desk used to draft the Declaration of Independence, the inkstand Lincoln used to draft the Emancipation Proclamation, and the table on which Elizabeth Cady Stanton wrote the Declaration of Sentiments, the exhibition focuses on the changing political ideals and principles of the nation, citizenship in a pluralistic society, and political participation and engagement. This is an ongoing exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Constitution Avenue NW, between 12th and 14th. americanhistory.si.edu.

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The Academy at Shakespeare Theatre Company 2019 Summer Rep’s Rachael Small as Sylvia, Charlotte Vaughn Raines as Phoebe in “As You Like It”. Photo: Courtesy of Shakespeare Theatre Company

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WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

FOLGER’S A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM AT THE NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM

Folger Theatre returns to live performances this summer with one of William Shakespeare’s most magical and beloved comedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This romantic and mischievous romp will be produced as part of the National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party on stage at The Playhouse that is being built from the ground up inside the Museum’s majestic Great Hall. This once-in-a-lifetime production full of yearning lovers, mischievous fairies, and bumbling amateur actors colliding beneath the glowing moon is 90 minutes of sheer delight and romance. $20 to $85. A Midsummer Night’s Dream is on stage from July 12 to Aug. 28. folger.edu/theatre.

CHOPTEETH AFROFUNK BIG BAND AT PEARL STREET

Chopteeth is a 12-piece Afrofunk orchestra exploring the common groove between the funkiest, most hip-shakin West African and American popular music on the planet. The core of the Chopteeth sound is Afrobeat: a big-band funk invented by Fela Kuti in 1970s Nigeria. Afrobeat is a spicy stew of modern jazz, Yoruba tribal music and burning, James Brown-inspired rhythms. Chopteeth’s sets feature original compositions along with updates of African dance classics, all while remaining true to the spirit of the music and its message. On Saturday, July 30, 8 p.m., at Pearl Street Warehouse, 33 Pearl St. SW., band members step to the mic to serve up lyrics in a total of seven different languages. $25. For ages 21, up. pearlstreetwarehouse.com.

SOUND OF MUSIC SING-A-LONG AT WOLF TRAP

For those not yet converted, Sing-A-Long Sound of Music is a screening of the classic Julie Andrews film in technicolor, complete with on-screen lyrics so everyone can sing along to “My Favorite Things,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Maria,” and more. A preshow costume contest invites audience members in costume on stage to show off their fantastic tailoring skills. Fancy dress is not obligatory but highly recommended. So get those vocal chords warmed up, cut up those chintz curtains, and hurry to Wolf Trap for the perfect night out on Friday, July 16, 7 p.m. (gates at 5:30 p.m.). Tickets are $27, up. All persons, regardless of age, must have a

ticket. Ticket prices are the same for adults and children. Wolf Trap, 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna. wolftrap.org.

AMERICAN SILENCE: PHOTOGRAPHS OF ROBERT ADAMS AT THE NGA

For 50 years, Robert Adams (b. 1937) has made compelling, provocative, and highly influential photographs that show us the wonder and fragility of the American landscape, its inherent beauty, and the inadequacy of our response to it. This exhibition explores the reverential way he looks at the world around him and the almost palpable silence of his work. Divided into three sections—The Gift, Our Response, and Tenancy—the exhibition features some 175 works from the artist’s most important projects and includes pictures of suburban sprawl, strip malls, highways, homes, and stores, as well as rivers, skies, the prairie, and the ocean. While these photographs lament the ravages that have been inflicted on the land, they also pay homage to what remains. American Silence is at the National Gallery of Art, West Building, through Oct. 2, 2022. nga.gov. Robert Adams, Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs, 1969. gelatin silver print. image: 14 x 14.9 cm (5 1/2 x 5 7/8 in.). Private collection, San Francisco©Robert Adams, Courtesy Fraenkel Gallery, San Francisco

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GO APE ZIPLINE & TREETOP ADVENTURES

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

The beautiful Rock Creek Regional Park at 6129 Needwood Lake Dr., Derwood, MD, features boating, fishing, archery, ziplining and treetop adventures. Go Ape Zipline & Treetop Adventures there offers shorter, less ambitious, courses ($44.95) and longer, more engaging ones ($64.95). Guests should plan to spend two to three hours tackling a Go Ape Treetop Adventure. Interact with the woodlands in a unique and engaging way and leave with a sense of accomplishment. The minimum age is ten years; minimum height, 4’7”; maximum weight, 285 lbs. Best to book in advance. goape.com/location/maryland-rockville.

THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS AT THE FILLMORE SILVER SPRING

The Psychedelic Furs are a British post-punk band founded in London in February 1977. Led by singer Richard Butler and his brother Tim Butler on bass guitar, the Psychedelic Furs are one of the many acts spawned from the British post-punk scene. Their music went through several phases, from an initially austere art rock sound, to later touching on new wave and hard rock. In 2021 the band released the official video for Made of Rain’s fifth single “Wrong Train”. It premiered exclusively on NME.com and was inspired by Richard Butler’s paintings. He starred in the video himself. Two weeks before the Made Of Rain Tour kicked-off, the band released a new single Evergreen, from the “Made Of Rain” sessions. According to Richard Butler, it’s about memory and the passing of time. The Psychedelic Furs are at the Fillmore Silver Spring, 8656 Colesville Rd., on July 17, 8 p.m. for a standing-only concert, $42. livenation.com.

Photo: Matthew Reeves

MOONRISE FESTIVAL

Tickets are on sale now for the three-stage Moonrise Festival on Aug. 6 and 7, 1 to 11 p.m. (each day), at Pimlico Race Course, 5201 Park Heights Ave., Baltimore. Here’s some of the lineup: AC Slater, Adventure Club, Atliens, Audien, Boogie TB2B Dirt Money, Canabliss, Cheat Codes, Chris Lake, DaBIN, Dimension, Dion Timmer B2B HE$H, Dom Dolla Don Diablo, Elohim, Excision, Fisher, Ghastly presents Ghengar, Jantzen B2B Subdocta, Jason Ross, Jessica Audiffred, Juelz, Kayzo, Kompany B2B Calcium, Layz, Level Up, Liquid Stranger, Lost Kings, Lucii, Mersiv, Mitis, Moore Kismet, Peekapoo, Rezz and more. Two-day general admission tickets are $129.99 to $239.99. This music Festival is for ages 18 and older only. moonrisefestival.com.

Photo: Michael Chenet Photography

OLD CROW MEDICINE SHOW AT THE ANTHEM

Old Crow Medicine Show began in late September of 1998 when a monkey wrench gang of old-time string band musicians, most of them still in their teens, left Ithaca, New York to cross the Canadian border and play their way to the Pacific. They brought pawnshop fiddles, banjos, guitars and washboards to downtown street corners across Ontario, to paper mill towns above Lake Superior, farmers markets in Manitoba, Indian reservations in South Dakota, and out to the streets of Vancouver, Victoria, Seattle and Portland. They knew they had captured something special. The group’s music has been called old-time, folk, and alternative country. Along with original songs, the band performs many pre-World War II blues and folk songs. $82 to $105. Old Crow Medicine Show is at The Anthem, 901 Wharf St. SW, on Friday, July 29, 8 p.m. theanthemdc.com. 10

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ALICIA KEYS AT MGM NATIONAL HARBOR

Alicia Keys is a classically trained pianist who began composing songs by age 12 and was signed at 15 years old by Columbia Records. After disputes with the label, she signed with Arista Records and later released her debut album, Songs in A Minor, with J Records in 2001. Since then, she has been referred to as the “Queen of R&B” by various media outlets and Time has listed her in its list of 100 most influential people twice. Alicia Keys appears at the Theater at MGM National Harbor, Oxon Hill, on Friday, Aug. 5, 8 p.m. mgmnationalharbor.ticketsoffice.org.

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WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

HOTTER THAN JULY: STEVIE WONDER From July 5 to 17, Signature heats things up for the summer months with their first cabaret in two years. Inspired by Stevie Wonder’s 1980 platinum album Hotter than July, this sizzling cabaret sets the ARK ablaze with songs from the album such as “All I Do” and “Master Blaster (Jammin’)” along with some of Stevie’s other hits like “Superstition” and “Overjoyed.” $38. Signature cabarets run about 75 minutes with no intermission. Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. sigtheatre.org.

MY SON THE WAITER: A JEWISH TRAGEDY

This hysterical and poignant play tells the story of Brad Zimmerman, who worked as a waiter for nearly three decades in pursuit of his comedy dream and his parents who suffered through that decision. My Son the Waiter is a tale about the grit and passion required to “make it” as an artist (as Zimmerman eventually did) and the sweet rewards that come from never giving up. One-part standup, one-part theatrical, and all parts uproarious, the show has garnered rave reviews wherever it has played. $60 to $70. My Son the Waiter: A Jewish Tragedy will make its Washington, DC debut at Theater J, 1529 16th St. NW, July 21 to Aug. 21. theaterj.org/myson.

VOICES OF MOTOWN AT THE BIRCHMERE

The Voices of Motown is an All-Star Musical Tribute Concert to The Temptations, Four Tops, Dells, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and others. It is composed of multitalented seasoned professional musicians and world class entertainers performing your favorite classic hits of Motown that will take you down memory lane on Friday, July 15, 7:30 p.m., at The Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. $35. birchmere.com.

TYFONTAINE AT UNION STAGE

FEMI KUTI & THE POSITIVE FORCE AT THE 9:30 CLUB

A native of Washington, DC, DC Jahsonic has been moving crowds at his weekly Monday night party--The Main Ingredient at Marvin since 2007. Before that, he got his start playing neighborhood house parties at the age of 11. His first paying gigs were residencies at the Blue Room, JIN Lounge and as one of the founding On-Air hosts and mixologists on 89.3 WPFWs ‘Decipher’ hip-hop hour. His latest program at WPFW, ‘Alternative Saints Radio’ explores the African diasporic permanence of culture through music and can be heard every Tuesday night from 8 to 10 p.m. $40. Femi Kuti & the Positive Force are at the 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW, on Thursday, July 14, 7 p.m. 930.com.

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TyFontaine– born Julius Terrel – is a Washington, DC, rapper who built a following after he released a series of trap-influenced mixtapes. Hiphop hitmaker Taz Taylor signed TyFontaine to a deal with Internet Money Records after hearing “Imagine,” which appeared on his 2019 debut, Waiting on Ascension. The 2020 release 1800 included a pair of viral hits--“Fetish” and “Huh?!,” a collaboration with producer Nick Mira, who also helmed Juice WRLD’s No. 1 smash “Lucid Dreams. TyFontaine’s latest release on June 15, 2022, is By Myself – Single. TyFontaine is at Union Stage, 740 Water St. SW, on July 19, 8 p.m. $20 to $35. unionstage.com.

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AFRICAN AMERICAN

HEALTH A Special Issue E AST

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MATERNAL MORTALITY IN THE DISTRICT

DC Works to Address Centuries of Structural Racism

or Jo Palmer, her daughter’s birth was a miracle she never thought she’d live to see. She almost didn’t. Palmer suffers from mixed-connective tissue syndrome as well as an auto-immune disorder. She had been told she would never get pregnant, let alone give birth. So she chose a hospital familiar with that history, believing she could trust them with her life and that of her unborn child. “I didn’t want to be in a position where I was explaining my medical history if something went wrong,” she said. Palmer is a health policy analyst with a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from the University of Maryland. She had done pre-pregnancy counseling, seen a reproductive endocrinologist and set up a pain management plan with her doctor. “I did everything right. I did what I was supposed to do and thought I could trust this place that at times, had saved my life.” That trust, she said, was shattered. After delivery by caesarean section, Palmer felt what she described as “excruciating pain” that made it impossible for her to even touch her newborn baby. Her complaints, she said, were not taken seriously, nor did anyone review her chart to note that her medical history has resulted in a high tolerance for pain medication. The medical team hesitated to implement the pain control plan Palmer and her doctor had put in place. The day after giving birth, Palmer noticed her lower abdomen was distended. When she pointed it out to the nurse, Palmer said, her concern was dismissed. In the middle of the night, Palmer reported shoulder pain. She knew this was a flag for preeclampsia. Physicians determined she was suffering from internal bleeding. Palmer was rushed into the operating room. Finding the medical team had not reviewed her medical history, she told her husband, Raman Santra (the blogger Barred in DC), that she loved him and gave him parting advice on how to raise their daughter, telling him he was born to be a girl dad. As a result of her training and profession, Palmer knew the risks. “I know that this is happening to people that look like me —that we’re being overlooked, we’re being neglected, we’re being brushed aside.” In the operating room, Palmer confronted the team and gave them her medical history. Before they gave her anesthesia, she said “I looked them in the eye and I said, You are not going to kill another Black mother today. I am going home with my baby. Please do not kill me.” Now the mother of a daughter who is nearly two years old, Palmer knows she is lucky. She also knows how many Black mothers delivering in the District are not. 16

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by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Jo Palmer and her daughter, now nearing her second birthday. Palmer, a health care policy analyst, found herself pleading for her life in the operating room after giving birth in 2020. Courtesy: J. Palmer

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AFRICAN AMERICAN HEALTH SPECIAL

The US national maternal mortality rate for 2014-18 was 20.7 per 100,000 live births; for Black birthing people in D.C., the rate was 70.9. While Black people accounted for half the births in the District, they suffered 90 percent of birth-related deaths, according to a report from the District’s Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC). 70 percent of those deaths were of residents of Wards 7 and 8. “When you see those terrible statistics, it just doesn’t make sense,” Palmer said. “What’s the problem here?”

celle. However, until she started researching her thesis in midwifery in 2006, she said she shared the general belief that the disparities between birthing people of different races were because of socioeconomic reasons or even plain bad choices. But her work changed her mind, she said. “It really comes down to systemic racism and institutionalized racism and how those factors are playing into our maternity care system,” Marcelle said. She notes that several academic studies have looked at the contributing factors and found that race is the major factor uniting people suffering pregnancy-related deaths. “When we try to adjust Causes for socio-economic physical lifestyle, it doesn’t change. It Part of the problem is structural inequity created by racism. doesn’t improve any of the outcomes.” A 2016 study published by he National Academy of Marcelle points to Serena Williams and Beyonce, who Sciences found that there is racial bias in pain perception she notes, “have all the money, all the husband, all the that affects treatment. Repeated studies have shown that things, all the body —and are still having challenges with Black women frequently experience disrespect, procedures growing their family.” without consent, rough handling, and dismissiveness toOf course, socioeconomics indirectly affect maternal ward pain from doctors. health outcomes through housing insecurity, lack of menFactors such as socioeconomic status and education tal health resources, and certain health conditions. Womare often cited in explanations for this disparity, said Maren of color nationally and in DC are disproportionately more likely to experience preexisting health conditions, lower socioeconomic status and discrimination, all of which negatively affect The first legislation introduced maternal health outcomes. by At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson (I) focused on maternal mortality. Photo Courtesy: Office of Councilmember Christina Henderson

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Structural Inequity

In the District, a history of local and federal policies that structurally disenfranchised people of color has created a racially segregated city, where certain areas have less access to opportunity than others. For residents of the majority-Black wards 7 and 8, that includes access to healthy food, hospital and health services. There is no hospital east of South Capitol Street or east of the Anacostia River. The obstetrics ward at United Medical Center was closed by the District Department of Health for repeated violation in August 2020 and never reopened. After years of work, the new Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center is expected to open in 2024 at the St. Elizabeth East Campus. Services will include newborn delivery with a neonatal intensive care unit, pediatric care and women’s health services as well as adult and children’s emergency services. But, At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson (I), said, with the closure of DC General, Providence and United Medical Hospitals over the past 22 years, “we’re still down hospitals from an infrastructure standpoint —and yet there are lots of babies being born in the District.”

Legislation

For Henderson, the struggle is personal. When she gave birth to her first child, she got a front row seat on the limited infrastructure the District has available for birthing people. In active labor, she was sent away from no less than two hospitals just trying to be admitted for care. In January 2021, she introduced the Maternal Health Resources and Access Act of 2021, her first piece of legislation. The bill includes funding for ride share trips so that women could get to and from appointments. Beginning in October 2022 DC Council directed $4.14 million to the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF) to provide for a state plan amendment authorizing reimbursement of doula services under Medicaid. It also includes a provision to fund a feasibility study for a birthing center to be located east of the river. Henderson knows it’s not a comprehensive bill, but it is a start. ”The goal is to address the low hanging fruit,” Henderson said. “This is a crisis and it’s 100 percent preventable.” According to the 2018 DC Perinatal Health and Infant Mortality Report, approximately half of black women (49%) and more than 1 in 3 Hispanic women (35%) are not getting into prenatal care until their 2nd or 3rd trimester or not receiving any care at all. As the report notes, “Delayed prenatal care is associated with poorer health outcomes for both mothers and infants, including preterm birth, low birthweight and infant mortality.” Henderson said when women were asked why they sought care so late, “for lots of them it was just transportation.” With many ObGyn clinics on the west side of the river, it could take a woman two busses and one train just to get to the appointment. Mothers in Ward 8 also told the DC Primary Care Association (DCPCA) that they had problems coordinating work schedules and childcare. One mom had a broken foot while she was pregnant and so she missed appointments because getting to the doctor’s office was too difficult with her cast. Henderson’s bill builds on recent legislation moved by DC Council, including a 2018 bill introduced by Charles Allen (Ward 6-D) that established the MMRC and 2019 legislation that extended Medicaid coverage for a year after birth to cover post partum care. Previously, birthing people were only accorded 60 days. In 2019 legislation was passed to create a perinatal mental health task force to focus on strategies and practices in DC. That task force was funded in 2022. In 2018, Councilmember Vincent Gray (Ward 7-D), Chair of the Committee on Health focused on maternal health especially for African American mothers by introducing Birth to Three legislation which provided care for mothers from prenatal care providers, lactation specialists, mental and behavioral support, early learning requirements and provisions.

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A Turn to Doulas

With access to care limited for expectant parents, midwives and doulas have increasingly stepped into the breech, filling the need for physical and emotional support, information and advocacy as parents prepare to deliver babies. Doula and midwifery have a long history in the Black community. Generations of midwives were respected members of the community who, in turn, brought generations of babies into the world. Local nonprofits Mamatoto Village, Community of Hope, and Healthy Babies Project provide holistic, communitybased maternal health services in Wards 7 and 8 with providers that look like their patients and are part of the neighborhoods they serve. Doulas support the person giving birth throughout all their decisions. They do not provide medical procedures, but they do ensure that the birthing person’s needs are met, giving them a sense of control, comfort and confidence. Midwives can provide medical care and prescribe painkillers, but tend to focus on low-intervention and holistic care. And studies show that both make a real difference, demonstrating both emotional and medical benefits. Doulas are linked to a 35 percent decrease in negative birth experiences, lowered use in pain medication, lower pre-term birth and increase in prenatal care. When doulas worked with clients prenatally, there was a decrease in the length labor, an increase in breast feeding success and also reductions in caesarian section.

Cultural Competency and Community

The cultural competency is critical, said Ebony Marcelle, Director of Midwifery at the Community of Hope Family Health and Birth Center and a member of the MMRC. Many of those delivering, particularly those on Medicaid, report that they are worried they will be judged or that the provider won’t understand their situation or decisions, creating an uncomfortable environment for the patient. Patients may also feel uncomfortable sharing information with providers. Dr. Chinita Richardson, a reverend and doula, told the Committee on Health hearing 20

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that one of her clients described how the father has had heart issues since he was 3. The mother has not told the doctor about this history despite being 32 weeks pregnant, Richardson said. “So our advocacy is very, very important.” “If you go places and feel like people are judging you and are not nice to you, you aren’t going to go,” Community of Hope’s Marcelle said. District legislation passed in 2016 requires healthcare professionals to require cultural competency training around LGBTQ issues, but not around racial bias. At least four states have adopted politics since 2019 requiring health care professionals to take implicit bias training prior to licensing or credential renewal; many other states have introduced similar bills. Community is key. Two years after giving birth, Palmer has sought therapy. She has incorporated her experience into her work, notably into a white paper on health disparities in the United States. Her greatest comfort has come from the community of mothers she plugged into in the months after giving birth. She calls them her “tribe,” women with infants who empathized with the story, actively check in on her. “When they see me, I don’t feel like I have to be strong,” she said. “If I need to talk about it, I have a few women who let me lean on them.” It is still emotional for Palmer to share her story, two years later. But she wants to draw attention to the problems before another mother faces them. “I feel I was a real-time, real-world training exercise for the MFM [maternal fetal medicaine], labor and delivery team, and the other specialists who were consulted on my case,” she said. She said she hopes her story can shine a light to how those in positions of authority and influence need to be aware of and check their biases. “It seems hard to admit these things to ourselves, but structural racism can’t be dismantled until we can all recognize our part in upholding that system.” Marcelle agrees. “It’s been a hard pill for a lot of folks to swallow, but it’s truth its reality. And until we acknowledge it, until we address it, we’re not going to be able change outcomes.” u

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HOW’S DC DOING ON COVID VACCINES?

DC to Enforce Immunization Requirement in Next School Year

n June 21, DC’s youngest residents began receiving their first COVID-19 vaccinations after Pfizer-Biotech and Modern vaccines were given Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for children ages 6 months to 5 years. With the ability to immunize most of the District’s residents against the COVID-19 virus, it is a good time to assess the District’s vaccine status. It’s been a long ride since the COVID vaccine became widely available to District adults last spring. At the time, the District struggled to address inequity in distribution across wards and demographics. The District has made some headway in closing some of the gaps in COVID vaccination status over the last year, but significant challenges remain. On June 21, 2021, data showed that only about 27 percent of ward 7 and 21 percent of Ward 8 residents were fully vaccinated; a year later, that number has risen to 46.7 percent overall and 54 in Ward 7. That’s still lower than in Ward 4, for instance, where 73.9 percent of residents have completed the primary series. Overall, the District is moving closer to achieving equal rates of vaccination for its black and white residents. Last June, DC data indicated 31.6 percent of white residents and 24.9 percent of Black residents were fully vaccinated; this June, those rates are 58 and 56 percent, respectively. However, a challenge still remains: vaccinating Black residents under the age of 25 against COVID-19. According to the District’s own data, the percentage of Black and White residents over 25 who have completed the primary series of a COVID vaccine differs by a single point. For the youngest adults, those in the 18 to 24 range, 41 percent of Black residents have been vaccinated compared to 44 percent of their peers. However, the disparity increases as the data skews younger. “We have even more African Americans being vaccinated, many because of job requirements,” acknowledged Ward 7 Councilmember Vincet Gray (D) who chairs the DC Council Committee of Health. He said he is confident there will continue to be growth in the rate of vaccinations amongst African Americans. “The real test,” Gray 22

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by Elizabeth O’Gorek

has 70 days to submit proof of vaccination. Right now, only 59 percent of Black students aged 12 to 15 are vaccinated, compared to 94 percent of their White peers; 26 percent of their elementary-aged siblings from 5 to 11 years are vaccinated, compared to 59 percent of white kids the same age.

Vaccine Insufficiency

The law requires students attending DC Public Schools to be up to date with vaccinations by 20 days after the start of school, or by Sept. 19. However, at a June 6 press conference, Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) encouraged parents to do so as early as possible. COVID vaccines are only one of the immunizations District officials want kids to have when classes resume in DC’s public and public charter schools. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, families stayed home from pediatrician offices, missing required immunizations. The city was lenient over the past two years, wanting to ensure kids were in class again after being out so long. At a May meeting of the Healthy Youth & Schools Commission, commissars were told that around 20,000 students —a little more than one-fifth of the 93,000 students enrolled in District public schools —could be removed

said, “will be for our school children.” In December, 2021 DC Council passed a bill requiring that as of the start of the 2022-23 school year, the COVID-19 vaccine be required for school enrollment and attendance in the District of Columbia —but only for those students in age group for which a COVID-19 vaccination has been fully approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). As of June 2022, fully-approved COVID-19 vaccines are available for individuals aged 16 and older. Only 58 percent of Black students aged 16 to 17 are vaccinated, compared to 88 percent of their white peers. For them, this could be a real problem; they will need to provide proof of vaccination within twenty days of the start of class. The vaccine has received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) but still awaits full approval from the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for kids aged 15 and under. So, the school COVID vaccine requirement does not apply to those students. However, District officials are still encouraging school-aged kids to get vaccinated in order to prevent outbreaks and ensure that everyone stays safe and in the classroom. If the student has a birthday Mayor Muriel Bowser holds a small boy as he receives the COVID-19 vaccine at and becomes eligible, or if a vaccine is apMary’s Center (3912 Georgia Ave. NW) Nov. 3, 2021. Courtesy: Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser proved for a new age group, the student

from school if the immunization attendance policy were enforced. But this year, the Mayor warned, “I have to say, the requirement will be enforced; it will be. So now is the time to get your child vaccinated.” The mayor also confirmed that there will be no virtual option available in the 2022-23 school year. The requirement isn’t just about COVID vaccines, either, Bowser said. “An outbreak of measles or whooping cough in a world where we have safe and effective vaccines should be unacceptable to everyone.” That reminder comes amid news that District students are behind in immunization against whooping cough and measles. Measles can be fatal in children, Senior Deputy Director at DC Health Dr. Thomas Farley said. Vaccine records indicate that only 80 percent of kindergartners are up to date, Farley added. Farley acknowledged that some kids might have been vaccinated in other states, but said it was still unlikely that those are sufficient numbers to prevent an outbreak in the schools. “These vaccines, while they’re excellent, are not 100 percent perfect; some kids could get infected; and there are some children, who for medical reasons, cannot get vaccinated,” he said. “To protect all of our children, we want to have all of our children vaccinated to close those gaps.” Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) Superintendent Dr. Christina Grant said that communities have rightfully been focused on protecting themselves against COVID. But, she added, “it is critically important that we do not forget that the other infectious diseases that exist can also impact our children and our ability for our children to come to school, stay in school and be at the safest place we know they should be.” Gray said Wards 7 and 8 have “some of the highest vaccinations for school aged minors in the District, including COVID shots,” but said he would still like to see more children get innoculated. “I understand why a parent may be hesitant when it comes to a new vaccine, however, I encourage parents to talk with healthcare professionals about their concerns.” Medical professionals can help and provide accurate information about the pros and risks, Gray said. “Ultimately, I believe that

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SIGN UP FOR YOUR FREE SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP TODAY For existing and aspiring District businesses - the Small Business Resource Center is here for you!

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Incentives

While last year the District proposed AirPod, Nationals tickets and cash card giveaways as incentives, this year the District appears to be depending on people to do the right thing. But they’re still reminding them to do it. Schools are flagging incomplete records, calling and writing letters to parents and even doing home visits. Certainly, its far easier to get vaccinated this year than it was at the same time last year, with walk-up COVID clinics and Ward COVID Centers (for Ward 7, at 3929 Minnesota Ave. NE and in Ward 8 at 3640 Martin Luther King

Jr. Ave. SE); School-Based Health Clinics (SBHC) will be open to all students aged 4 and older, no matter where they are enrolled, to be vaccinated. The clinic at Anacostia High School (1601 16th St. SE) will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday through the summer; the clinic at Ballou High School (3401 Fourth St. SE) 8:30 a.m. to noon Tuesday and Thursday starting July 5. DC Health is also working with several community providers such as Children’s National to place mobile units at schools, recreation centers, COVID centers, and other community locations in all eight wards starting in August. Finally, schools and faith organizations can request and coordinate on-site vaccination clinics with health providers by visiting https://request.vaccineexchange.dc.gov/. ◆

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CHILDREN MUST VACCINATE TO ATTEND SCHOOL by Reed Tuckson M.D. Former Commissioner Of Public Health For Washington, D.C.

have had the privilege of working on behalf of the health of the citizens of Washington, D.C. in various capacities for over 40 years. During that time I was honored to serve as your Commissioner of Public Health in the 1980’s and most recently as a co-founder of the Black Coalition Against COVID. My experiences have taught me that the protection and the preservation of human life is a sacred and inescapable individual, family, and community-wide shared responsibility. Certainly we can all agree that protecting and advancing the health of our precious children is at the top of any list of priorities in this regard. Every parent and child caregiver should know that as we continue to experience the tragic health and social consequences associated with the COVID pandemic, immunizing children to protect them from preventable childhood illness is now more important than ever. I am especially troubled that the pandemic caused our children to miss extended periods of time attending in-person schooling. As a result, children in general, and children of color in particular, suffered setbacks in education-

al achievement and socialization. Please be aware that children in Washington, D.C. will not be allowed back to school without proof that their traditional childhood vaccination status is up to date for their age requirements. We cannot afford any child to miss even one more day of in person schooling. The science is clear: routine childhood vaccinations are extraordinarily effective and have been proven over many years to be extremely safe. Because of advances in medical science, children can now be safely protected against more diseases than ever before. In fact, some diseases that once injured or killed thousands of children have been eliminated completely, and others are close to extinction. Unfortunately, because enough children are not current with their recommended childhood vaccines, we are experiencing a worrisome resurgence of diseases such as measles and whooping cough, which threaten your child’s health and those around them. I am aware of the unfortunate efforts by the spreaders of misinformation who continue to try and mislead parents that routine child vaccinations are unsafe and can lead to conditions such as autism. Thankfully, the scientific evidence studied over many years has debunked these false and dangerous claims. There is no question that vaccinations are safe and very effective. Please do not let these dangerous people cause our children to suffer unnecessarily from preventable illnesses. Today is the day to make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician or a vaccine administration site that you can find at dchealth.dc.gov. Be sure not only to get your child vaccinated but also that you have documentation that the vaccines have been administered. We don’t want any child to miss even one day of school this year. Let’s all do our part to protect our children. Ensuring that we have 100% compliance with childhood vaccinations is one of the best ways to accomplish this goal! Let’s work together as parents, caregivers and a loving community to challenge each other to ensure that we reach our goal. Our children’s futures are depending on us! Reed Tuckson M.D. is DC’s Former Commissioner Of Public Health. He can be found at drreed@ tucksonhealthconnections.com. u E ast

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OUR RIVER: THE ANACOSTIA Peaceful Summer Walks Along Its Streams

by Bill Matuszeski

ummer is the time for all of us to discover and enjoy quiet walks along our Anacostia and its streams. Some of these can be hidden places, while others are right along the river but provide relaxation and time with nature. Starting at the confluence with the Potomac and working upstream, I suggest five such special places for walks and short hikes inside DC, and another three upstream in Maryland that you might not know about but would be worth the drive to a starting point. 1. Walk the East Bank Trail from the 11th Street Bridge downstream to the Frederick Douglass Bridge. You can return the way you came or cross the Douglass Bridge and return via the Navy Yard in a three-mile loop. What is special about View across our river through wildflowers on East Bank Trail. Photo: Bill Matuszeski the East Bank Trail is the preponderance of natural plants and flowers all along the way from the walkway to the water. In places, you want to stop and take a picture of the mix of colors down to the water and the wildness, compared to all the development on the other side of the river. It inspires peace and appreciation of nature. A road alongside the walkway doesn’t carry much traffic and is easily ignored. 2. For complete isolation except for a wide range of wildlife, hike Pope Branch, a deep stream valley that is hard to believe is in the midst of Anacostia. You are completely surrounded by nature the moment you enter, and you simply follow the stream up the valley, taking paths when they occasionally appear. I have been welcomed upon entry by owls, by deer and by very noisy frogs! You simply follow the stream for a few blocks until it emerges and crosses Massachusetts Avenue to join Fort DuPont Park, where well-marked and well-used trails emerge. The best starting point for this amazing wilderness experience in a deep valley with no sign of the surrounding neighborhoods is to drop down a wooded slope east of Minnesota Avenue at M Place SE, where the guardrail curving around from the avenue comes to a quick end at the street signs. If this appears too difficult, walk up M Place Wilderness along Pope Branch. Photo: Bill Matuszeski one block more to enter easier on the other side of 28

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Trail Bridge over the railroad upstream of the pavilion. Photo: Bill Matuszeski

Lotus in bloom in Kenilworth Aquatic Garden. Photo: Bill Matuszeski

Branch Avenue. You can return to your entrance by following Pope Branch back and not entering the tunnel under Minnesota Avenue, or by walking through the neighborhood. 3. A very different walk begins at the Anacostia Skating Pavilion, a short distance north of Pennsylvania Avenue, before the road along the river ends in a large parking lot. From there, the walk north along the river has some peaceful amenities. First is a nice Anacostia River Museum next to the pavilion with displays that attract all ages. From there, the River Walk continues over the railroad on a magnificent curving bicycle and pedestrian bridge with great views all around, then enters a wooded walk before passing under the East Capitol Street bridge and emerging in the pleasant River Terrace neighborhood park. A short walk on Benning Road Bridge over the river takes us to our next suggested walk. 4. Walk the trails of Kingman and Heritage Islands. These

Phyllis Nelson, volunteer for Friends of Anacostia Park. Photo: Bill Matuszeski

lie between Benning Road and the RFK Stadium and have been designated for conversion to all-native plantings so we can see how the riverside and adjacent areas once looked. The projects to achieve the removal of non-natives and replacement with native species are receiving a great deal of expert analysis and neighborhood involvement. You can observe areas where the invasive plants have yet to be removed, areas where they have been removed but not replaced and areas where the newly planted native species are presented to the public. Once completed, the newly planted islands will provide a unique sense of the native landscape in the middle of a large metropolitan area. 5. The final suggested place for walks within the city is the Kenilworth Aquatic Garden in Anacostia. This Park Service display area is along the river near the northern DC boundary with Maryland but has broad land and water areas, fabulous trails and spectacular plantings. It is worth becoming familiar with this place for the variety of waterbased plant species and the extensive marsh areas. It has remarkably few visitors on weekdays and therefore is a fine place to escape to. If you are interested in being there for events, this is your month! The 2022 Lotus and Water Lily Festival, all during July, includes yoga and tai chi, art classes, wildlife presentations, a 5K walk, music and dance and bilingual tours. Weekend themes are: • July 9-10: Art and Harmony • July 16-17: Healthy Park, Healthy People • July 23-24: Nature and Environment • July 30-31: Music and Community 6. Turning to the suburbs, there are three special areas for walks upstream that you should be aware of. First is spectacular Lake Artemesia that feeds the Northeast Branch and has been developed as a massive recreation area for hikers, skaters, fishers and boaters. A walk around it is about a three-mile hike with beautiful trees and natural plants and flowers and many views. It is easy to get to Lake Artemesia by bike, Metro or car. For bikers, the Northeast Branch Trail splits off from the Northwest above Bladens-

burg and continues for several miles, curving around the historic College Park Airport and splitting into Paint Branch and Indian Creek at the south end of the lake. The Metro drops you at College Park Station, where you head north and enter wooded parkland after crossing Paint Branch Parkway and follow the trail and signs to a tunnel under the rail and Metro lines and enter the lake property. If driving, take MD 193, Greenbelt Road, from the east and exit to the right before the railroad bridge rises before you. Turn left under the bridge and follow signs to the parking area north of the lake. You will not regret taking the trouble to find this very special place. 7. For a wilder and more remote experience, perhaps the most spectacular of the streams going over the fall line to enter the coastal plain is the Northwest Branch. For View of Lake Artemesia near College Park. Photo: Bill Matuszeski about a mile the waters pass over exposed rocks and waterfalls and all manner of other natural obstacles. It is a thrill to look at and ing through the Anacostia River streams, they could not be a challenge for anyone willing to enter the surging waters. tracked. The Quakers were there to help them find their There are all levels of falling water so you can pick placnew homes and relatives. Today you park in the Quaker es that most appeal to your esthetics and sense of bravery. Meetinghouse lot and walk a dirt road to a gate blocking The trails are magnificent but not safe for bicycles, which vehicles but open to walkers. Entering the open fields gives can be parked in the lots where you enter. The best entry a remarkable feeling of peace, and knowing the history adds point is at Burnt Mills on US 29, the Columbia Pike; easito this. After a quarter-mile or so the dirt road turns right, est approach is to go west on the Beltway past the split with but you go straight and immediately come upon the fenced I-95, going north, and take Exit 29, MD 193 north. At the area which protects the spring that begins our river. There first major intersection take a right turn onto US 29, Coare miles of additional hikes to be taken in the open fields, lumbia Pike. After less than a mile on Columbia Pike you with paths and dirt tracks, and much history and nature to will level out on a bridge over the Northwest Branch. Pull soak up. Enjoy! And plan to return here and other places into the parking areas on the right surrounding an old mill to get your walks along our river. and start your adventure. After the falls, the trail next to the stream joins the trail system to other tributaries downNote: In last month’s article on the restoration of streams stream and the main stem of the Anin the National Arboretum, two phoacostia. It passes under the Beltway to captions were erroneously reversed. after a mile and widens out to accomThe restored Springhouse Run is the modate bicycles along the stream. photo of a wide stream valley with a 8. The final suggested place for a beaver pond along its way. The unrequiet walk and time to enjoy the landstored Hickey Run is the photo of the scape is as far away as you can go and narrow and deep cut with concrete still be in our river’s watershed. This blocks holding the water in an essenis near the village of Sandy Spring in tially topless sewer line. Montgomery County, where the water emerges from a spring that begins Bill Matuszeski is a member of the Maythe Northwest Branch of the Anacosor’s Leadership Council for a Cleaner Antia River by being the farthest point in acostia River and the retired director of the the entire watershed. It is located in Chesapeake Bay Program. He also serves a beautiful rural area with important on the board of the Friends of the Nationhistorical significance. On the road al Arboretum and on citizen advisory comyou come down to find the spring is a mittees for Chesapeake Bay and the AnacosQuaker Meeting House, which served tia River. u as a key point on the Underground Walking toward the source of the Anacostia at Sandy Spring. Photo: Railroad for escaped slaves. By walkMary Procter

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neighborhood news

Photo: Courtesy of Anacostia Riverkeeper

ng Anacostia Riverkeeper’s Friday Night Fishi river? The Anacostia Riverkeep-

Who doesn’t love a summer Friday night spent on the ly, learn-to-fish program. It er’s Friday Night Fishing program is a free, family-friend s from June to August each Friday on takes place along the Navy Yard on the Anacostia for you and your family need you hing everyt e summer. Open to all ages. They provid Night Fishing takes Friday t. nmen enviro tional educa and to learn how to fish in a fun e Park RecreTeagu ond Diam place every Friday, 5 to 8 p.m. through Aug. 19 at the ation Dock. anacostiariverkeeper.org.

Soul of the City Marketplace Barn

The Congress Heights Marketplace, 2700 MLK Ave. SE, at the Barn on the St. Elizabeths is a defining Ward 8 icon. Founded in 2021, the Marketplace is a weekend public market and is brought to life by over 40 farmers, crafters, small businesses, and residents. The market offers conventional and certified organic fruits and vegetables, fresh fish and crabs, eggs, sweet and savory baked goods (including gluten free options), vegan dishes, pickles, jams, and jellies, teas, soups and sandwiches, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps, original art, handmade jewelry and clothing. In addition, the Market is a vibrant and thriving historic neighborhood that includes social service programs, independently owned vendor pop-up shops, 30+ craftspeople, farmers, and permitted buskers. It is open Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Dec. 17. soulofthecitydc.life. 30

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Capitol Gateway Marketplace Site Progresses

Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development have announced that the District has taken the next step to acquire the long-stalled Capitol Gateway Marketplace site, located in Ward 7 at the intersection of East Capitol and 58th Streets NE, by filing a Complaint in Condemnation with the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. In February 2022, the Council of the District of Columbia approved Mayor Bowser’s request to authorize the use of eminent domain to initiate action at the site. On June 2, the District filed a Complaint in Condemnation with the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. The site is now poised to deliver a new supermarket and fresh food access point. By acquiring the property, the District will be able to address unsafe and un-

Congressional Baseball Game for Charity

Since 1909 the Congressional Baseball Game has been an annual bipartisan event beloved by all and enjoyed by thousands. Members of the United States Congress from each party solidify friendships off the floor and on the field. Over the last century the Congressional Baseball Game’s popularity has contributed to its evolution into a foundation called Congressional Sports for Charity that supports Washington, DC area charities. These charities include The Washington Literacy Center, The Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington, and Washington Nationals Philanthropies along with the United States Capitol Police Memorial Fund in gratitude to the officers at the Republican practice shooting on June 14, 2017. The 2022 Congressional Baseball Game for Charity is at Nationals Park on July 28 at 7:05 p.m. Tickets are $10 to $15. Lots of giveaways. congressionalbaseball.org. sanitary conditions, reduce food insecurity in the area, and bring jobs and opportunity to the community. Absent eminent domain authority, the site--located in an area underserved by fresh food retailers--would likely have remained vacant until at least 2037, since there is no legal or financial reason for the developer to advance the project.

Outdoor Wellness Series at Kenilworth

Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

offer their neighbors and the community at large the experience of outdoor wellness at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, with WELLderness: An Outdoor Wellness Series. Try for the first time or continue your practice at yoga, tai chi, forest bathing, painting, and enjoy live music June through October. Additional activities and events include West African and steel band drumming, bird watching, photography and dog pack walks. Subscribe to their newsletter at kenaqgardens.org/sub-

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Open DCDC Open DoorsDoors DC Open Doors DC Open Doors isoryour key key to homeownership in the homebuyer a D.C. resident DC Open Doors is your to homeownership city. program offers interest rates and DC Open Doors is yourcompetitive to homeownership in ,key be purchasing a home inthe the DC Open Doors inThis the city. This program offers competitive interest lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust city. This program offers competitive interest rates and District of Columbia. DC Open Doors is yourinsurance key to homeownership in the rates and lower mortgage costs on first trust lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust city. This program offers competitive interest rates and homebuyer or a D.C. mortgages. You areresident not required to be a first-time lower mortgage costs on first trust ,insurance be purchasing a home in the homebuyer resident homebuyerororaaD.C. D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. District of Columbia., be purchasing a home in the HPAP interest free deferred You must,provides however, be resident purchasing a home loans in the for down homebuyer or a D.C. District of Columbia. District of Columbia., be purchasing a home in the serves as a co-administrator of District of Columbia. Home Purchase Assistance Development’s (DHCD) first-time home HPAP provides interest free deferred loans forbuyer down serves as Program program. (HPAP) a co-administrator of

thisprovides DC Department Housing andforCommunity HPAP interest freeofdeferred loans down

this DC Department of Housing and Community HPAP provides interest free loans for of serves as adeferred co-administrator HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down Development’s (DHCD) first-time home buyer this DCpayment Department of Housing Community down and closing cost and assistance up program. Development’s (DHCD) first-time home to $84,000 combined. DCHFA as buyer a coserves as serves a co-administrator of program. administrator of this DC Department Housing this DC Department of Housing andofCommunity Development’s home and Community Development’s firstyears or older(DHCD) who havefirst-time fallen(DHCD) behind onbuyer insurance program. time buyer program. andhome tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. District can receive up to yearsQualified or older who have homeowners fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. DC4ME Qualified District homeowners receive to years or older who have fallencan behind onup insurance DC4ME provides as mortgage with optional and tax payments a resultassistance of their reverse mortgage. Qualified Districtassistance homeowners cangovernment receive up to down payment to D.C. DC4ME provides mortgage assistance optional years or older whoishave fallen behind onwith insurance employees. DC4ME offered to current full-time down payment assistance toofD.C. government and tax payments as a result their reverse mortgage. DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional District government employees, including employees employees. DC4ME offered to current down payment assistance toisD.C. government Qualified District homeowners can receivefull-time up to ofDistrict District government-based instrumentalities, government employees, including employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time employees DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, District government employees, including employees payment assistance toD.C. D.C.Public government independent agencies, Charter Schools, ofdown District government-based instrumentalities, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employees. DC4ME offered to Charter current full-time and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's independent agencies, is D.C. Public Schools, employer falls under the oversight of the Council of District government employees, including employees and organizations, theoversight applicant/borrower's employer fallsprovided under the of the Council of of District government-based instrumentalities, DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with the District of Columbia. employer falls under the oversight of the Council of optional the District of Columbia. independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, the District of Columbia. down payment assistance to D.C. government

and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employees. DC4ME is offered to current full-time employer falls under theemployees, oversight ofincluding the Council of Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) District government employees the District of Columbia. ofThe District government-based instrumentalities, MCC provides an additional incentive for firstCOVID-19 COVID-19 independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools,to time homebuyers to purchase a home in D.C. An DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance to and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's those affected the impacts ofability the COVID-19 MCC offers qualified borrowers to claim those affected by theby impacts of thethe COVID-19 employer falls under the oversight ofareceive the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualified borrowers can pandemic. Qualified borrowers can receive loanCouncil ofa loanofof a Federal Tax Credit of 20 percent of the mortgage the District of Columbia. up toup $5,000 perduring month to put toward theirassistance mortgage to paid $5,000 pereach month to financial putyear. toward their mortgage DC MAP COVID-19 provides to interest calendar for up sixto months. forto up six those affected bymonths. the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Qualified borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage COVID-19 for up to six months.

DC MAP COVID-19 provides financial assistance to are Back at DCHFA Homebuyers Info Sessions those affected by the impacts of the COVID-19 Visit www.DCHFA.org Qualified borrowers can receive a loan of Visitpandemic. www.DCHFA.org Register at their bit.ly/dcopendoors uphow to $5,000 monthto to any put toward mortgage to per apply of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

for uphow to six months. to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs. Visit www.DCHFA.org 815 FLORIDA AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG to apply to WASHINGTON, any of DCHFA’s DC homeownership programs. 815 FLORIDAhow AVENUE, NW, 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG

815 FLORIDA AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG 31 E AST OF THE R IVER M AGAZINE J ULY 2022

Visit www.DCHFA.org how to apply to any of DCHFA’s homeownership programs.

815 FLORIDA AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20001 • 202.777.1600 • WWW.DCHFA.ORG

neighborhood news / bulletin board

A person observes Katharina Fritsch’s Hahn/Cock, 2013, glass fiber reinforced polyester resin fixed on stainless steel supporting structure, National Gallery of Art, Washington, Gift of Glenstone Foundation, 2020.23.1

scribe. Here’s the July and August schedule: Forest Bathing, Aug. 2 and 20, 9 to 10:30 a.m.; Tai Chi, July 31, 9 to 10 a.m. and Aug. 21, 9 to 10 a.m.; Yoga, July 17, 10 to 11 a.m. and July 16, 7 to 8 a.m., Aug. 7, 10 to 11 a.m.; Canoe Tour with Anacostia Watershed Society July 16, 9 to 11 a.m.; iPhoneography with ArtReach GW (all phones) July 16, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; Bele Bele Rhythm Collective, July 30, 2:30 to 4 p.m. and East of the River Steel Band, 5 to 6 p.m. and Bele Bele, Aug. 20, 2:30 to 4 p.m. kenaqgardens.org.

Applications Being Accepted for Honfleur Women in Arts Grant Program

NGA East Building Reopens

The National Gallery of Art has announced that its iconic, I. M. Peidesigned East Building has reopened. The building had been closed since Feb. 28, 2022, to accommodate the final stages of replacing its Atrium skylight. The Atrium will appear brighter due to new panes of glass that have restored light to levels originally seen when the building first opened on June 1, 1978. Visitors will now enter through a more accessible main entrance, find a separate elevator lobby within the newly refurbished auditorium, and access additional or updated restrooms on the Mezzanine, Ground Floor, and Concourse. The East Building will welcome two new exhibitions within the first month of reopening. On July 3, The Woman in White: Joanna Hiffernan and James McNeill Whistler will bring together for the first time nearly all of Whistler’s depictions of Hiffernan, including the three renowned “Symphony in White” paintings. The Double: Identity and Difference in Art since 1900, which opens on July 10, is the first major exhibition to consider how and why artists have employed doubled formats to explore perceptual, conceptual, and psychological themes. nga.gov.

MLK Memorial Summer Film Series

The MLK Memorial Foundation has announced the films to be shown in their 2022 summer movie series. Here’s the remaining lineup: Encanto, July 21; and Just Mercy, Aug. 25. Free and open to the public, films will be screened on the lawn adjacent to the bookstore at 8 p.m. at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Guests are encouraged to arrive early and bring a blanket or low-profile lawn chair. Parking is limited and use of public transportation is encouraged. filmsatthestone.org. 32

EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Honfleur Gallery and ARCH Development Corporation announce an opportunity to apply for the Honfleur Women in Arts Program. These grants will be given to individuals or collaboratives who propose a project that focuses on the discrimination faced and/or impact that being a woman [or identifying as a woman] has had in pursuing creative endeavors. This award is open to women who are artists of any genre, and to teaching professionals in the field of women’s study. Applicants must live, work or attend school in the DC metropolitan area. The project scope is open to all intentional projects. Examples are blog series, plays, films, lecture series, research papers, short films, conceptual albums, exhibits with sound/music, collaborative music projects, interactive dance programs, curriculum development, and classes for adults. Applicant letters of interest requested by Aug. 1, 2022. honfleurgallerydc.org/grants.

“Beauty & Decay” by Renee Azcra Woodward

things gothic. Her artistic career started as a model and photographer in the nightclub scene in Philly and DC. She has since grown her career to include fine art, fashion, and wedding photography, but she still takes any opportunity to shoot the darker side of life. She has a particular love of shooting beautiful women and decaying architecture. In this project, Ms. Woodward combines her love for the macabe with her fine art and fashion experience. The backdrops showcased in this exhibit include Eastern State Penitentiary, Alburtis Furnace, Pennhurst Asylum, and La Belle Creolle, an abandoned resort in St. Maarten, to name a few. “Beauty & Decay” by Renee Azcra Woodward is at Honfleur Gallery, 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE, through Aug. 6. Gallery hours are Thursday to Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. honfleurgallerydc.org.

Anacostia Library Peer Outreach

Are you experiencing homelessness? Having a hard time finding a job? Have you been incarcerated? The DC Public Library Peer Program is here to help. You can meet with a Peer Specialist at Anacostia Neighborhood Library and discuss options and strategies to help guide you. Anacostia Library Peer Outreach is on Mondays and Wednesdays, 3 to 6 p.m. Anacostia Library is at 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. dclibrary.org/anacostia.

DC Minimum Wage Increased

Effective July 1, the District’s minimum wage increased from $15.50 to $16.10 per hour for nontipped employees and $5.35 for tipped employees. Residents with concerns about wage theft, minimum wage, or compliance with other ordinances can reach the Office of Wage-Hour Compliance at owh.ask@dc.gov or call 202-671-1880.

Renee Azcra Woodward has a background in all

Free Summer Movies at The Wharf

On select Thursday through Aug. 25, The Wharf will show a wide range of fan-favorite movies on their 20’ outdoor screen on the Transit Pier. Each movie begins at 7:30 p.m. No reservations or tickets are needed—just show up, grab a seat, and enjoy a free movie under the stars. Here’s the remaining lineup: July 14, A League of Their Own; July 21, Girls Trip; July 28, Top Gun; Aug. 11, Spider Man--No Way Home; Aug. 18, Crazy Rich Asians; Aug. 25, Summer of Soul. wharfdc.com.

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neighborhood news / bulletin board

Southeast Library Monthly Book Sale

On the second Saturday of most months, the Friends of Southeast Library (FOSEL), 403 Seventh St. SE, conduct a used book sale with most books priced at $1. FOSEL accepts book donations in their blue bin by the D St. entrance to the building. For questions about large scale donations, email 1234fosel@gmail.com to coordinate with a member of the Friends directly. dclibrary.org/southeast.

Drive-In Movies at Union Market

Ashley D. Nguyen (left) and Terrance Fleming

Shakespeare in Love at the Keegan

Young Will Shakespeare has writer’s block… the deadline for his new play is fast approaching but he’s in desperate need of inspiration. That is, until he finds his muse--Viola. This beautiful young woman is Will’s greatest admirer and will stop at nothing (including breaking the law) to appear in his next play. Against a bustling background of mistaken identity, ruthless scheming, and backstage theatrics, Will’s love for Viola quickly blossoms and inspires him to write his greatest masterpiece. $60. Shakespeare in Love is at the Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, through July 26. keegantheatre.com.

Jazz in the (NGA Sculpture) Garden

Every Friday at 6 p.m. through July 22, enjoy live musical performances ranging from jazz to Afro-Cuban and bluegrass in the National Gallery of Art outdoor Sculpture Garden. Here’s the remaining lineup: July 8, The Althea René Band: Soul-Jazz Flute; July 15, Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra: Jazz & World Music; July 22, Sideline: Bluegrass. Registration is free and opens at noon one week before each concert. They release a limited number of day-of passes at 10 a.m. on the morning of each concert. At press time, they are unable to accommodate walk-ins. Register at nga.gov/ calendar/concerts/jazz-in-the-garden.

Downtown DC’s Monthly Pop-up Arts Market

The Capital Arts Collective takes over Wilson Plaza, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on every third Thursday of the month through October. Remaining dates are July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15, and Oct. 20. Locals and passersby can shop and explore a curated selection of items by the areas most talented creatives, including everything from jewelry, paintings, candles, custom designed items, home goods, and more. rrbitc.com/events/capital-arts-collective. 34

EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Remaining drive-in movie this season are: Aug. 12, 8:45 p.m., Dirty Dancing: Sept. 9, 8 p.m., Encanto; Oct. 14, 7 p.m. Black Panther. For those on foot, bring your chairs and blankets and set up shop in front of Union Market for picnic-style entertainment at no charge. Cars are $20. unionmarketdc.com.

Let’s Skate DC at the Wharf

New to The Wharf this summer is a classic old-school favorite--their free outdoor roller-skating rink on Transit Pier. The Wharf Roller Rink becomes the hottest party on eight wheels during the second weekends of July, and August. Skate outdoors for free, vibe out to great music, and watch incredible skate performances by the professionals. The next weekends are on Saturdays, July 9 and Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and on Sundays, July 10 and Aug. 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. Admission is free for all ages, and no pre-registration is required. Skate rentals are $10 and will be available for children only (size 12 junior-6). Adults must bring their own skates. wharfdc.com.

Friday Night Concerts at Yards Park

Friday nights this summer through July 29, come to Yards Park to relax and enjoy the river view, fantastic bands, food and beverage, and a large variety of great restaurants within a few minutes of the park. Family-friendly lyrics and grassy open space make this an enjoyable event for adults and kids alike. Music starts at 7 p.m. Here’s the remaining lineup: July 8, The Jarreau Williams Xperience (RnB); July 15, So Fetch 2000s Tribute Band; July 22, Broad Sound Pop/Rock/RnB; July 29, Uncle Jesse (Rock). capitolriverfront.org.

(night) Market SW

Market SW, at Fourth and M Streets SW, is open alternate Fridays, 4 to 10 p.m. Remaining dates are July 8 and 22; Aug. 5 and 19; and Sept. 2, 16 and 30. This market is a mix of local and creative businesses, food trucks, live music, a fully stocked beer garden, colorful lights, and familyfriendly activities. diversemarkets.net.

Free “Movies on the Pitch” at Audi Field

Audi Field, home of DC United, and the Capitol Riverfront BID have partnered to host a special first-of-its-kind free outdoor movie series on Thursday evenings at Audi Field located in the Buzzard Point subarea of Capitol Riverfront. Here’s the remaining lineup: July 28, A Quiet Place 2; and Aug. 25, In the Heights. “Movies on the Pitch” transform Audi Field into an outdoor cinema with showings on the stadium’s jumbotron screen. The family-friendly experience begins at 7 p.m., with gates opening at 5:30 p.m. Audi Field offers concessions for purchase during each movie (no outside food or alcohol permitted). Movie-goers can visit fevo. me/motp to register for tickets capitolriverfront.org/events.

Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity in Housing

In Washington DC, discrimination in the housing market on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender and gender identity is prohibited in all aspects of the housing market. Sexual harassment by a housing provider or employees of a management company is also considered a fair housing violation. If you believe a landlord or housing provider is discriminating against you based on any of these factors, contact Housing Counseling Services at 202-667-7706 to learn more about your fair housing rights and to get free assistance filing a fair housing complaint. housingetc.org.

DC Heat Alerts and Shelter Hotline

When the temperature or heat index in the District reaches 95 degrees, District Government, through DHS and the Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency, will implement the Heat Emergency Plan and activate cooling centers for residents to seek relief. For transportation to a shelter, call 311 or the Shelter Hotline 202-3997093. For more information, and for a list of District cooling center locations, visit heat.dc.gov.

Metropolitan Branch Trail Extended

The section of the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT), between Brookland and Fort Totten has been extended. This new section closes a gap in the District’s pedestrian and bicycle network and represents a milestone in the goal to complete the nearly 900-mile regional trail network. The new 0.8-mile trail is 11 feet wide, connects the Fort Totten Metro to the Brookland Metro, and provides North-

ANC-8B

Monthly Community Meetings

3rd Tuesday of each Month at 7:00 pm ANC-8B is on summer break. Next Meeting: September 16, 2022

Full Passport Services at MLK Library

There is a Passport Acceptance Office on the second floor of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G St. NW. It is open Tuesday to Thursday, 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Photos may be taken on-site. All applicants must be present. Free Printing, copying, and scanning is available. Read more about fees and forms at dclibrary.org/passports.

South bicycle and pedestrian connectivity for Catholic University, Lamond Riggs, Queens Chapel, Manor Park, and the surrounding neighborhoods. The new trail features LED lighting, stormwater management facilities, wayfinding signage, and security cameras. DDOT is currently working to finalize design plans for the next section of the trail between Fort Totten to Takoma, with plans to begin construction in 2023. There are currently 62 miles of trail throughout the District, with plans to build 17 more miles in the next six years. For more information about the MBT, visit metbranchtrail.com.

Community Emergency Response Training Offered

Are you interested in learning to be prepared for the next emergency or disaster? If so, join a training cohort of the Community Emergency Response Team. Using FEMA training standards, this free threeweek course will teach you basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, CPR/AED and first aid. The next training taught on Wednesdays and Thursdays at Serve DC Headquarters starts on July 21. RSVP at tiny.url/DCCERTSessions22.

$50 Million Homeowner Assistance Fund Launched

Mayor Bowser and the DC Department of Housing and Community Development have launched a $50 million homeownership program to provide financial assistance to residents struggling to make

housing related payments. Through the Homeowner Assistance Fund, eligible homeowners are able to go to haf.dc.gov to apply for grant funding to cover mortgage payments and other property or housing expenses, including utilities, insurance, internet assistance and housing association fees, among other benefits. Frontdoor.dc.gov, a DC government site launched in 2021, provides a searchable inventory of these programs. haf.dc.gov.

FedExField Selected to Host 2024 Army-Navy Football Game

The United States Military Academy and United States Naval Academy have announced Washington, DC as the host of the 2024 Army-Navy Football Game presented by USAA at FedExField on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024. The Washington Commanders and Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, will deliver a worldclass experience for one of college football’s most long-standing rivalries. This will be the 125th Army-Navy game dating back to 1890 and will be only the second time the Washington metro area has been selected to host this game, which was also played at FedExField in 2011. The location of the game varies from year-to-year and is typically played in a neutral east coast venue. This game marks the end of the college football regular season, and the winner is awarded the Secretary’s Trophy. Navy leads the all-time series against Army 62-53-7. commanders.com/stadium/2024/army-vs-navy.

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Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle: 100% Carbon Neutral

Giant Food has announced that the June 25 and 26 annual Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle was 100% carbon neutral through a collaboration with global environmental technology leader GreenPrint, a global environmental technology leader of certified offset projects to reduce the harmful effects of carbon through reforestation, alternative energy and methane reduction. For more information about Giant’s sustainability efforts, visit giantfood. com/pages/sustainability. u E ast

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neighborhood news

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.

FORT DUPONT PARK 310 Cape Dr SE 3416 Croffut Pl SE 4214 Fort Dupont Ter SE 4227 SE Gorman St SE 4358 Dubois Pl SE 4376 Southern Ave SE

$455,000 $410,000 $364,800 $450,000 $290,000 $508,000

HILL EAST 114 18th St SE 1618 E St SE 1807 Bay St SE 309 16th St SE

NEIGHBORHOOD

PRICE

136 Wilmington Pl SE $500,500 3017 7th St SE $505,000 HOMES 308 Raleigh St SE $585,000 3318 7th St SE $475,000 ANACOSTIA 4004 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SW $520,000 1351 Morris Rd SE $480,000 4 49 Danbury St SW $419,990 1424 T St SE $430,000 3 712 Malcolm X Ave SE $720,000 1522 U St SE $500,000 2 830 Hr Dr SE $425,000 1615 Butler St SE $820,000 8 1634 Ridge Pl SE $540,000 3 DAKOTA CROSSING 2301 Elvans Rd SE $655,555 4 3215 Theodore R Hagans Dr NE $745,000

4 3 3 4 3 2 5 3

$1,150,000 $1,075,000 $670,000 $849,900

3 3 2 3 2 3

CONDO

ANACOSTIA 2609 Douglass Rd SE #402

BARRY FARMS 2640 Wade Rd SE #22

E a s t o f t h e R i v er D C N e w s . c o m

$120,000

4 3 2 3

1001 Bryant St NE #14 1001 Bryant St NE #3

$71,000 $449,900

FAIRFAX VILLAGE

2006 38th St SE #302 $169,950 2055 38th St SE #302 $133,000 HILLCREST 3926 Southern Ave SE #102 $130,000 1630 27th St SE $424,000 4 2512 32nd St SE $529,000 2 HILL EAST 1314 31st Pl SE $474,500 4 1424 C St SE #2 $974,900 1718 33rd Pl SE $750,000 4 401 15th St SE #404 $697,000 2525 32nd St SE $1,015,000 5 KINGMAN PARK 2701 Branch Ave SE $900,000 4 1840 D St NE #1 $597,000 3243 Massachusetts Ave SE $530,000 5 2013 E St NE #4 $655,000 LILY PONDS 300 Oklahoma Ave NE #101 $220,000 142 33rd St NE $500,000 2 NAVY YARD 3418 Baker St NE $360,000 2 1025 1st SE #102 $625,000 3712 Grant Pl NE #3712 $400,000 3 1025 1st St SE #609 $721,000 4312 Polk St NE $480,000 3 1300 4th St SE #301 $485,000 MARSHALL HEIGHTS 1300 4th St SE #401 $488,500 5121 C St SE $565,000 4 1300 4th St SE #412 $860,000 5121 Hanna Pl SE $503,000 4 1300 4th St SE #903 $900,000 5315 B St SE $485,000 3 37 L St SE #303 $439,900 37 L St SE #707 $633,400

NAVY YARD 1004 3rd St SE

$729,000

RANDLE HEIGHTS

2 2

BRENTWOOD

3 2 2 2 1 3 2 3 2 1 2 2 1 1 2 2 1 1

TRINIDAD

1016 17th Pl NE #UNIT 200 1028 Bladensburg NE #22 1466 Congress Pl SE $440,000 3 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #18 BARRY FARMS DEANWOOD 1704 Frankford St SE $445,000 3 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #52 1321 Talbert Ter SE $331,000 2 194 35th St NE $457,500 3 1833 S St SE $422,000 2 1028 Bladensburg Rd NE #53 408 59th St NE $350,000 4 2433 Skyland Pl SE $388,500 3 1142 Neal St NE #2 BRENTWOOD 418 57th St NE $394,000 2 3461 24th St SE $442,000 4 1212 Queen St NE #1 1334 Downing St NE $645,000 3 4216 Brooks St NE $317,500 3 1267 Penn St NE #A 1816 Corcoran St NE $480,000 3 RIVER TERRACE 4501 Brooks St NE $580,000 3 1354 Queen St NE #101 2346 13th Pl NE $625,000 3 3349 Blaine St NE $539,900 2 4504 Lee St NE $540,000 4 1516 Montello Ave NE #A 6430 7th St NW $814,500 3 4536 Dix St NE $566,500 5 1516 Montello Ave NE #B TRINIDAD 4950 Blaine St NE $434,950 3 CAPITOL HILL EAST 812 18th St NE #1 1110 Oates St NE $570,000 3 5010 Brooks St NE $366,100 3 1828 Burke St SE $1,063,500 3 812 18th St NE #5 1119 Orren St NE $980,000 4 5222 Hayes St NE $405,000 3 401 Guethlers Way SE $1,375,000 3 1170 Morse St NE $810,000 3 u 5343 Hayes St NE $400,500 4 1214 Florida Ave NE $833,000 3 5716 Blaine St NE $550,000 5 CARVER LANGSTON 1309 Staples St NE $650,000 3 711 55th St NE $405,000 3 1701 Lyman Pl NE $660,000 2 1315 Queen St NE $899,000 4 726 50th St NE $550,000 4 1423 Orren St NE $900,000 4 CONGRESS HEIGHTS 813 50th Pl NE $359,900 2 1513 Neal St NE $840,000 4 1015 Savannah St SE $650,000 4 87 58th St SE $459,900 3 1816 H Pl NE $664,510 3 1131 Trenton Pl SE $540,000 3 3

$315,000

$399,900 $425,000 $320,000 $560,000 $512,000 $825,000 $699,999 $647,000 $379,000 $799,900 $868,000 $489,000 $290,000

2 2 1 2 2 2 3 3 2 4 4 2 1

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Meet Sharon Wise

Mental Health Advocator, Survivor, and Artist

by Anthony D. Diallo

haron Wise identifies herself as a “surviving spirit” after enduring and overcoming child abuse, homelessness, prostitution, incarceration, and mental health issues in her lifetime. The now award-winning Ward 8 filmmaker, artist, motivational speaker, and community advocate has come full circle and is a living example of inspiration and recovery to all she encounters on her daily job as a civil servant, volunteering as a solar panel installer three to five times a year, or on her various travels around the region, country, and globe selling her art and jewelry. “My personality and fortitude come from living on the streets, having to give my children away to foster care, and coming from the bad homelife that I had,” said Wise, now fifty-nine, who was born in Chicago but has lived in DC for 32 years and now calls Naylor Road in Southeast home.

der a bridge, and do whatever – steal, sell her body, peddle drugs – to survive from day to day.

Mental Illness Diagnosis

Barbaric Beginnings

Josie Mae Sargent gave birth to Wise at 22. Wise was her mother’s fourth child. Wise started running away from home in the third grade at the tender age of 9-years-old because of the utter dysfunction occurring in the household. She was not acquainted with her father (Wavey Nance) and only knew of his existence after his death. He was already married with a family when he met Wise’s mother and never acknowledged the offspring, he sired outside his family unit. “At my house, you could do and get anything. You could smoke anything, do any drugs, and drink. My mom

Sharon Wise

had five kids, all girls, with five different men. (A sixth child named Bruce died shortly after birth). I never remembered my mom then without a black eye or busted lip. When my mother would pass out, the men would come into my room and touch me inappropriately,” Wise said explaining in detail the challenges she faced and why she would seek the solace of friends’ homes and neighbors. Nobody ever came looking for her or even seem to miss Wise when she was away from home for days. Eventually those days turned into weeks, and never returning home at all. Wise had her first child – son named Theodore Mercedez Wesby III – at 15 and her second, a girl, - Niyyah Odom – by her 18th birthday. “Although I was still basically a baby myself and had no idea how to take care of children, I was looking for love from someone who would love me unconditionally.” The children ended up in the foster care system in Chicago after Wise left her son at the same church where she would often go for a free meal and sustenance. The baby girl was adopted quick“Matilda’s Homemade Soup,” Wise came to Ohio as a pie maker. No ly. At the time Wise learned how to turn a couple of one was buying pies. So, she started making soup, which she sold at articles of clothing into a makeshift toilet, live unconstruction sites Youngstown.

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After first being hospitalized around the age of nine, Wise was diagnosed with a mental illness which led to her being an in-patient at a laundry list of psychiatric institutions and hospitals – at times on an involuntary basis – in Chicago and other parts of the country. Without question, the young adolescent led a troubled and traumatic life. “I started running away when I was young, but it didn’t stop when I got older. I was trying to run away from my problems, my life, and me. But I was everywhere that I went. The running did not stop until someone asked, ‘what happened?’ It was easy to answer why I lived on the street, did drugs, prostituted, and committed crimes. When someone asked me ‘what happened’ and showed me that they really cared, that’s when things started to change.” Acknowledging that she has always been an artist child, Wise remembers one stay at a mental hospital where she drew trees with bloody eyes instead of fruit. The therapists and doctors were so amazed by her drawing that they called dozens of their colleagues to examine her art which they immediately dubbed it as surrealistic. Surrealism is characterized by themes of imagery, color choices, or techniques and its focus on the artist’s deepest thoughts. Wise’s art, on a miniscule level, has been compared to other Surrealistic artists like Salvador Dali and Henri Emile Benoit Matisse.

Turning Point

The turning point for Wise occurred near Seattle in a King County jail. She was 26 years old. While imprisoned she became a role model for other inmates and would help them cope with their incarceration by showing them how to remain as clean as possible and doing their tasks with pride. Upon her release from the West Coast detention center, counselors and officials strongly encouraged Wise not to return to her old stomping grounds in Chicago. Instead, she received an opportunity to come to the nation’s capital. “I jumped at the chance,” Wise said and the rest, as the saying goes, is history! She never looked back. She has en-

joyed sobriety for more than 30 years and not complies to people on the streets and living in homeless mitted any crimes in that time span. Wise is now an camps like the ones she lived in for almost 10 years. advocate for others with similar experiences. She is Wise says matter-of-factly that she has a connection a Certified Wellness Recovery Action Plan Facilitato those wayward souls living alone and in limbo. tor who also works full-time as a Community OutWise won a contract from the Department of reach Specialist for the Department of Aging and Behavioral Health to aid people with mental health Community Living (DACL) once known as the Dechallenges. She is also an artist-in residence at St. partment of Office and Aging. Elizabeth’s Hospital where she gives presentations Wise earned a combined Bachelor and masand brainstorms at conferences that support menter’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln Unital health recovery for consumers around the world. versity in Pennsylvania. The She recently returned from givHistorically Black College or ing a presentation in Europe. University (HBCU) with nota“I am so impressed with ble alumni like poet Langston what Sharon has done to Hughes and historian Horace change her life,” said longMann Bond, boasts of being time friend Iris Moore, a secthe country’s first degree grantretary to the Deputy Associate ing HBCU. Chief Counsel International at Dr. John Santopietro is one the IRS. Moore met Wise back of Wise’s biggest cheerleaders. in 1996 when Moore worked The renowned psychologist is as a temporary worker in a the Senior Vice President of downtown office building and the Hartford HealthCare Bebecame “bosom buddies”. havioral Health Network and “Sharon and her son Tedthe Assistant Clinical Professor dy (who Wise was able to reof Psychiatry at the Yale School connect with the help of her of Medicine. mother who got him out of “I have known Sharon for the foster care system) would more than 10 years. We first take food and blankets late at met when I was in North Carnight to people on the streets. olina. I had reached out for (Wise still works on a rela“Two Sisters Dancing,” Two friends national figures (to work with tionship with her daughter). won every dance competition in town. Unbeknownst to them, they were sisand enlighten his patients), She inspired me to help,” said ters with the same father. They found and somebody recommended Moore who proudly acclaim out at age 14. her. She was a natural and used that she has always remained her experiences to really conin walking distance to Wise nect and help many others who (had been in simiwhen they both first lived in northwest, then northlar circumstances),” said Santopietro who has also east, and now southeast. Moore resides on Good purchased Wise’s art to further motivate and inspire Hope Road which she says is about six blocks from his patients. Wise’s home. While traversing around the region and the naInspired as a vehicle to help amend the relation, teaching and training peers, government offitionship between her daughter, Wise in partnercials, and other interested parties about trauma-inship with Glenn Holsten, created a short 10-minformed care and substance abuse prevention, Wise ute film called “Letter to Niyyah” that won a Gold has built a solid following. ADDY in 2018. The ADDY Awards is the world’s “It is more common than people think to recovlargest advertising competition with over 40,000 er from mental illness. People in general have a lot entries annually. Founded in Florida in 1960, the of stigmas about mental illness. What makes ShaAmerican Advertising Federation, a non-profit inron unique is that she uses her own experiences to dustry association, adopted it as a national compechange the world and heal others,” said the psycholtition in 1968. ogist who has been practicing for 25 years. For more information about Wise, motivational speeches, and her art, you can find her on the website – jusswaggtv.online or her email address 1WiseFrom Ordeals to Accomplishments workz@gmail.com, or call her at (202) 867-0956. In 2017 Wise graduated from the Solar Works DC “Nothing happens in your life to you, but it hapProgram. However, her proudest accomplishment pens for you! When you look at life in that way, you is probably “Round Midnight” an organization that learn as teachings and not failures,” urges Wise. ◆ she started 20 years ago to deliver food and sup-

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east washington life

The East Washingtonian The Words “Dog Park” Need Not Divide Us by Leniqua’dominique Jenkins

reside in lovely, historic Deanwood along with my really big multigenerational family and my miniature Doberman Pinscher Dynamite. Dynamite and I explore trails and enjoy camping. We have led a few “Pack Walks,” hosted by the Friends of Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. I am a member of the African diaspora and also count Native Americans among my ancestors. Both these cultures lived close to nature, embracing holistic medical practices. My own lifestyle still strongly draws from these roots. As a result, I find it disappointing that the words “dog park” have become synonyms for gentrification. Along with many of my neighbors, I too desire a safe space to exercise my beloved Dynamite. During my candidacy, as an at-large city council member, I participated in many debates. My first was hosted by DC for Democracy. I clearly recall nervousness and enthusiasm. The evening was going well. I delivered my positions on hard topics confidently. At some point, the moderator asked the candidates thought public land should be used. Residents should decide how to use public land, I responded. Public land should be for public use. I dug a little deeper. Residents should drive the conversation on land usage, I said. They are best suited to assess their community’s needs. They should decide on a grocery store, affordable housing or even a dog park. Upon my utterance of the words “dog park,” the online audience began to buzz. Some asked if I cared about

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pets more than people. Others thought I supported the developers displacing Native Washingtonians. Instantly, I discovered the words “dog park” constituted a code for anti-Blackness. My people-centered, inclusive and compassionate approach to the development of public land was missed by some listeners. A 30-second response proved inadequate to unpacking the antipathy of many of my neighbors held

in their hearts and minds towards those two simple words. Pet ownership is a privilege that many economically stressed residents do not have, I realize. Renters with pets pay a higher security fee. Public housing residents are forbidden from having dogs, even if they are emotional support animals. All this is aside from the expense of caring for a beloved pet, which requires having a disposable income. The priv-

ilege of pet ownership, is oft overlooked when a community is forced to make choices based on survival and not comfort. Black people love animals and dog parks. I know. I am one of them! However, we do not want dog parks to be prioritized over meeting the basic human needs. My community has inadequate affordable housing, zero hospitals and very limited access to quality fresh food or grocers. So, talk about dog parks leaves my neighbors feeling invisible. The words “dog park” imply “green gentrification,” the racial wealth gap and privilege, because all of these topics are interconnected. My neighbors should not have to choose between a new grocery store, affordable housing or a “dog park.” Rather than arguing over accommodating Black pet owners, lets collectively fight for environmental justice, break down uninformed stereotypes, demand equity and equality. Black residents East of the River deserve it all. Leniqua’dominique Jenkins holds a Bachelor’s in Political Science from the University of Houston. She worked on Capitol Hill and in Africa, India and Spain. Currently, she serves a preschool teacher at a language submersion school in Ward 7. u

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Ballou High School Poets Have the Write Stuff by Karen Lyon

group of Ballou High School stuTHE TEEN NEW DEAL holding them accountable for dents recently achieved someby Shannon Bradshaw meeting their artistic goals for thing that many seasoned writpoetry and the spoken word.” ers would envy: they became I want our black teens, white teens, all teens, going to school. According to Nordé, the poetpublished poets. Their class was Let’s show these adults that young people are the tool. ry workshops gave young peopart of an after-school multi-media arts proA Teen New Deal will help us do it. ple a space “to talk about things gram sponsored by Do The Write Thing of DC We can prove it. that are impacting them in their (www.dothewritethingdc.org), a foundation coEarning incentives should be included. lives and their communities, We’ll be making money every week -- just do it. founded by G. Sidney Nordé and Lolo Smith [and a chance] to speak their dedicated to promoting the long-term developLet’s deep deep dive into solving racism, hate and crime. hearts and their minds…durment and success of young people. All people can be equalized. ing heavy times.” “And,” adds One component of the program was a poIt’s 2022, the pandemic is conquered. Gardner, “we had a lot of fun!” Diversity is the bigger issue. etry club led by teaching artist and poet Asha Gardner also helped her Teaching Artist/Poet Asha Gardner, who coached the students in crafting We still getting shot at school. students become first-time Gardner’s poetry writing We still can’t vote at school. their own poems and prepared them for parpublished poets, editing more workshops at Ballou HS students led to the publication ticipation in poetry and spoken word competiWe still getting killed over and over by the law. than 58 poems on the themes of “Truth,” which is available tions, including the Ballou Schoolwide Poetry This can’t go on any longer, something needs to change. of self-evaluation and connecton amazon.com. We need A TEEN NEW DEAL!! Competition, the citywide Words On Fire Fesing with the world to create a tival sponsored by the DC Commission on the book called “Truth.” The colArts, where Ballou Junior Araiya Brewer placed third in the lection includes original works by nine BalSpoken Word Competition, and the Poetry Out Loud Recilou High School students: Emir Battle, Trinity ed about what participating in Do the Write Thing tation Competition sponsored by the National Endowment Bennett, Shannon Bradshaw, Araiya Brewer, Khai Campbell, has meant to them. Several students credited the for the Arts. Patrice Chambers, Isaiah Hunter, Jenesis Marshall and Jonaprograms with improving their time management “It was a joy and pleasure to work with these students,” than Steele. “I learned so much about their resilience,” Gardand communication skills, and they cited the poetry Gardner says, “these young beautiful minds… helping them and ner says. She points in particular to a poem by Isaiah Hunter, workshop with helping them to explore and express “Take Your Chances,” that urges teens not to wait for pertheir emotions. Nordé confessed that, even at his age mission to do what they want in life, but to be willing to fol(“half a century”), he has been moved and motivatlow their own path. ed by the “amazing words of inspiration from these “Trust your senses,” he writes, “and worry about what young people.” In paraphrasing the late Congressyou got, not what you’re missing.” man John Lewis, he said, “Young people are going A second component of the Do the Write Thing proto be the answer. They may not have all the answers, gram is the Teen New Deal, which uses a three-pronged apbut if we can harness their brilliance and energy, we proach to involving young people in transforming society. As can transform society.” set forth in his book, “The Teen New Deal,” Nordé advoThe teen poets have been invited to sign copies cates paying youth with cryptocurrency to attend school and of “Truth” at the Authors Pavilion during the presincentivize positive behavior; establishing student governtigious Annual Legislative Conference sponsored ment associations to vote on issues such as school uniforms, by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in field trips, and security; and establishing student-based melate September 2022. Of the work below, which apdia centers in all high schools so that young people can learn pears in the collection, LoLo Smith notes, “Shanto work responsibly with social media. Students recently parnon’s poem is a perfect blend of the components of ticipated in a virtual discussion, “Teens Speak: The Teen the after-school multi-media program that included New Deal,” which focused on Nordé’s initiatives and how poetry writing and debating the efficacy of solutions effectively they are addressing racism and other societal ills. promulgated in “The Teen New Deal.” It is also a Students from Ballou High School whose original poems appear in a new In an online interview with Denise Rolark Barnes, pubbook called “Truth” include (front row, l-r) Ayanna Jones, Khai Campbell, moving testimonial to one young poet’s determinalisher of The Washington Informer, on June 10, several of Zarianna Marshall, Shannon Bradshaw, (back row, l-r) Emir Battle, Isaiah tion to make a better future for herself and others. u the Ballou teen poets, along with Nordé and Gardner, talkHunter, Jonathan Steele, and Araiya Brewer. Photo by Stephen Barksdale 42

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by Kathleen Donner

See “Mary Poppins” on Thursday night, July 28.

DPR Swimming Lessons for Kids (Ages Six Months and Up)

The Department of Parks and Recreation offers classes and programs for the whole family for residents who want to be active in aquatics. Lessons are $10 to $30. Go to LEARN TO SWIM at www. dprprograms.splashthat.com.

It’s Go-Kart Time!

Bladensburg’s Go-Kart Track, 4300 Kenilworth Ave., offers a top-of-the-line go-kart racing track where $7 gets seven laps. Choose from two karts: a single kart for people who want to race by themselves and a double kart featuring an extra seat. Double karts are great for passengers who are un-

See “Mary Poppins” on the LOC Lawn

The Library of Congress presents National Film Registry Movies on the Lawn on Thursdays: July 7, “Top Gun”; July 14, “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”; July 21, “Rocky”; July 28, “Mary Poppins”; Aug. 4, “Wall-E.” Movies, on the corner of Second Street and Independence Avenue SE, will start at about 8:15 p.m. No tickets required but visitors are encouraged to arrive early as space is limited. This is a feature of the library’s new afterhours experience, Live at the Library. From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday evenings, visitors are invited to enjoy happy-hour drinks and snacks available for purchase in the Great Hall overlooking the Capitol and the Thomas Jefferson Building while immersing themselves in exhibits, collections and programs. www.loc.gov

Photo: Bruce Guthrie

In-Person SAAM Arcade

On Saturday, July 30, 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., the Smithsonian American Art Museum Arcade, Eighth and G streets NW, returns to the Kogod Courtyard for a day full of new games from indie developers along with classic arcade and console games from MAGFest. Independent developers will display their games in the Indie Developer Showcase. Participants can also explore SAAM’s connections to videogame art and the theme with a scavenger hunt at the information table. A second game jam is hosted for the virtual audience. For updates about this year’s program, visit www.americanart.si.edu/arcade.

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der the age of eight and cannot drive by themselves or older passengers who just want to come along for the ride. Summer hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily (weather permitting). www.gokarttrack.com

The cast of “Dr. Wonderful.” Photo: Mike Kozemchak

On Saturday, July 16, and Sunday, July 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., both days, learn about art as expression and communication in the 18th century through visual arts, poetry, music and movement at Mount Vernon. Activities are included in the admission price: $28 for adults 12, up; $15 for youth six to 11; five and under, free. www. mountvernon.org

“Claws and Paws Pathway” Opens at National Zoo

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute invites visitors to prowl the new “Claws and Paws Pathway” exhibit. Visitors will encounter a North American porcupine, bobcats, and the zoo’s newest residents ‒ binturongs and Pallas’s cats. The renovated area is behind the prairie dog exhibit, adjacent to the zoo’s Police Station and Mane Grille restaurant. www. nationalzoo.si.edu

Midsummer’s Mayhem (Read along with Your Children)

Science Moms Climate Change To-Do List

For those who wonder how to work on climate change solutions to protect their kids’ future, Science Moms has made a to-do list. Visit www.sciencemoms.com/ take-action.

“The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful (and Her Dog)”

Dr. Wonderful and her dog Newton want to know why the moon changes shape in the sky every night. This detective duo gathers clues to solve their lunar mystery using the powers of science, curiosity and teamwork. “The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful (and Her Dog)” is on stage at Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church St. NW, from July 5 to 24, on selected mornings, afternoons and evenings. It is presented by Keegan PLAY-RAH-KA (PRK), Keegan’s brand for young people and families. www.keegantheatre.com

Eleven-year-old Mimi Mackson’s culinary dreams seem attainable when she discovers a contest at the new bakery in town. Mimi meets Vik, a boy who brings her to parts of the forest she’s never seen. They discover exotic ingredients and bake them into delectable treats. But when her father begins acting strangely, and her siblings’ romantic entanglements cause trouble, Mimi begins to wonder whether the ingredients are somehow the cause of it all. A Kirkus Best Book of 2019, Raiani LaRocca’s “Midsummer’s Mayhem” is a delightful riff on Shakespeare’s comedy. www.folger.edu

Unicorn Kids Club: Celebrate What Makes You Magical!

Here is your chance to celebrate who you are, find other kids like you and have some fun. Each month, the third Saturday 46

Discover Art in the 18th Century at Mount Vernon

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through November, 11 a.m. to noon, Unicorn Kids Club will focus on a different way to be different. Join other kids at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE, for stories, making cool stuff and other activities designed just for kids ages five through 12. There’s a different focus each month: July 16, Introverted Kids Day; Aug. 20, Kids with Dyslexia Day; Sept. 17, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Kids Day; Oct. 15, New Kids on the Block Day; Nov. 19, Celebrate All Difference Day. www.anacostia.si.edu/events

Come Aboard Tall Ship Providence at The Wharf

Come aboard the Providence for a tour guided by her crew. Step back in time to

the 1770s and learn about life on board when Captain John Paul Jones was at the helm. Providence is a fully functional reproduction of the first ship authorized by the Continental Congress for the Continental Navy during the American Revolution. Learn about the Providence’s film debut in “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Unless otherwise noted, all tours and sails from May to October will take place from The Wharf. Ticket sales and gift shop are at 950 Wharf St. SW. Tours are $12 for adults; $11 for seniors/military and $10 for kids; four and under, free. Day sails are Saturdays and Sundays in summer, 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Day sails are $69 for adults; $55 for kids. www.tallshipprovidence.org

Let’s Skate DC at The Wharf

New to The Wharf this summer is the outdoor rollerskating rink on the Transit Pier. Skate outdoors for free during the second weekends of July and August. Vibe out to music and watch skate performances by the professionals. The next weekends are on Saturdays, July 9 and Aug. 13, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sundays, July 10 and Aug. 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. Admission is free for all ages and no pre-registration is required. Skate rentals are $10 and will be available for children only (size 12 junior-6). Adults must bring their own skates. www.wharfdc.com

“Potted Potter” at Shakespeare Theater

“Potted Potter ‒ The Unauthorized Harry Experience ‒ A Parody” condenses all seven Harry Potter books into seventy hilarious minutes. Created by two-time Ol-

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ivier Award-nominated actors Daniel Clarkson and Jefferson Turner, “Potted Potter” is perfect for ages six to Dumbledore (who is very old indeed). $49.75 to $99.75. At Shakespeare Theater’s Sidney Harman Hall, 610 F St. NW, through July 17. Seventy-minute run time. www. shakespearetheatre.org

“Cinderella” at Glen Echo

Rod puppets convey the classic tale of rags to riches, love at first sight (twice!) and getting what we all deserve. Enjoy “Cinderella” at the Glen Echo Playhouse on Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., from July 21 to Aug. 28. Tickets are $15. Recommended for ages five, up. www.thepuppetco.org

Kids Run the Bases at Nats Park

Kids ages four to 12 can run the bases after every Sunday day game throughout the season. This season’s remaining dates: July 3, 17 and 31; Aug. 14 and 28; Sept. 18; and Oct. 2. Kids Run the Bases begins immediately following the game, weather permitting.

Photo: The Puppet Co., Glen Echo Park

An adult must accompany runners to the field. Once the game has ended, it takes the grounds crew approximately 20 minutes to prepare the field. Kids and parents/guardians can begin lining up at the end of the seventh inning, but those who want to watch the entire game will still be able to line up once the game has ended. Participants must exit the ballpark through the Right Field Gate. The line forms outside the park on the sidewalk along First Street. www.washington.nationals.mlb.com

Folger’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the National Building Museum

Folger Theatre returns to live performances this summer with one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved comedies, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” This family-friendly romp will be produced as part of the National Building Museum’s Summer Block Party on stage at the playhouse inside the museum’s majestic Great Hall. $20 to $85. On stage from July 12 to Aug. 28. www.folger.edu/theatre

Summer Family Concerts at Lubber Run Park

Photo: DC Department of Parks and Recreation

DPR Spray Parks Open Daily

The Department of Parks and Recreation’s spray parks are small outdoor spaces equipped with kid-friendly fountains that are perfect for splashing around and escaping the summer heat. There is at least one spray park in every ward. Spray parks are open every day until Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. In order to perform maintenance on the spray parks, each park will close for five hours, one day a week. Refer to www.dpr.dc.gov/sprayparks to determine when maintenance is performed on each spray park.

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The Lubber Run Summer Concert series features free performances in genres including big band, blues, soul, orchestral music and cabaret at the Lubber Run Amphitheater. Kids’ programming is on Sundays at 11 a.m. Here’s the remaining lineup: July 10, Cody Clark Magic ‒ Railroad Submarine!; July 17, Happenstance Theater ‒ Pinot & Augustine; July 24, Rainbow Rock Band; July 31, Encore Stage & Studio presents “A Sidewalk Stroll!”; Aug. 14, Blue Sky Puppets ‒ “The Three Not So Little Pigs.” Lubber Run is at North Columbus Street and Second Street North (two blocks north of Rt. 50) in Arlington. www.arlingtonva.us/Government/ Programs/Arts/Programs/Lubber-Run

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“Mr. Popper’s Penguins” at Imagination Stage

This musical play, featuring expert puppetry, depicts a wild and witty way to follow your dreams – and your convictions. Mr. Popper dreams of taking an Antarctic adventure and is thrilled when a penguin named Captain Cook waddles out of a mysterious box left on his doorstep. More penguins follow, and Mr. Popper and his wife turn his talented penguins into a must-see traveling vaudeville act. $12 to $39. ASL-interpreted performance, July 24 at 1:30 p.m. Sensory-friendly performance, July 17 at 11:00 a.m. For ages three to 10, at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, through Aug. 7. www.imaginationstage.org

Synetic’s (Wordless) “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

Synetic Theater, 1800 South Bell St., Arlington (Crystal City), home of American Physical Theater and movement-based storytelling, announces the return of its adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” directed and choreographed by company co-founders Paata and Irina Tsikurishvili. The production runs through July 24. Tickets, $25 to $65, are available at www.synetictheater.org/midsummer2022. Alex Mills as Puck. Photo: Johnny Shryock

A Book of Poetry by Ballou High School Students

Do The Write Thing of DC (DTWT), a local nonprofit, has announced the release of a book of poetry, “TRUTH,” featuring original poems by Ballou High School students Emir Battle, Trinity Bennett, Shannon Bradshaw, Araiya Brewer, Khai Campbell, Patrice Chambers, Isaiah Hunter, Jenesis Marshall and Jonathan Steele. The students, who are in DTWT’s after-school multimedia arts project, participated in spoken-word and writtenword competitions during the citywide Words on Fire Festival sponsored by the DC Commission on the Arts. Ballou Junior Araiya Brewer placed third with an assist from coaching by Asha Gardner, DTWT’s teaching artist/poet/coach.

Marine Corps Marathon Kids Run Registration Open

The MCM Kids Run is on Saturday, Oct. 29, in Arlington. Children ages five to 12 can participate in the onemile fun run. Pre- and post-event hospitality, activities, entertainment, games and mascots make this an unforgettable event. The Kids Run offers families eight starttime options between 9:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Registration is $15 and is now open at www.marinemarathon. com/events.

Baby Shark Day at Nats Park

On Sunday, July 31, at the 1:35 p.m. game vs. St. Louis Cardinals, the first 8,000 attendees twelve and under will receive a Baby Shark Song Cube. Tickets from $18. www.mlb.com/nationals

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Summer Months are Deadliest for Teen Drivers

The nonprofit Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) is providing parents of teens with “Ten Tips for Parents to Prevent Underage Drinking” on its website. WRAP also encourages parents to be aware of social networks and media, where party promoters often prey on youth, promising a good time and access to alcohol for a fee. www.wrap.org

Families Encouraged to Vaccinate Children Ahead of School Year

Mayor Bowser and DC Health have announced expanded efforts to encourage families to vaccinate their children ahead of the upcoming 2022-23 school year. To help families comply with required vaccinations for students, the District will offer expanded immunization access, conduct extensive out-

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Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides

The Flying Circus Hot Air Balloon Festival is on Aug. 20 and 21. Tethered hot air balloon rides which rise to about 50 feet are $10 for adults and $5 for children (cash only). There are also hot air balloon launches in the early morning, 6 to 9 a.m. and late afternoon, 6 to 8 p.m. Gates open at 6 a.m. You’re invited to take a ride or just come out to see the balloons close-up. Rides are $150 to $250 for the approximately one-hour ride. The regular air show is at 1:30 p.m. Festival admission is $15. The Flying Circus Aerodrome is 14 miles SE of Warrenton and 22 miles NW of Fredericksburg, just off Route 17, at 5114 Ritchie Road (Route 644) in Bealeton, VA. (about 60 miles from DC). flyingcircusairshow.com.

Backpack Drive at THEARC

Building Bridges Across the River is having a backpack drive on Saturday, Aug. 27, noon to 3 p.m. at THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. You can support by donating backpacks, other school supplies or cash. For questions, email LJones@thearcdc.org.

Nat Geo Little Kids Magazine

Inspire early exploration (and reading) with Nat Geo Little Kids magazine. Engaging photos, cool facts and stories with fun games and activities help instill a love of learning and a fascination with the world. Designed for children ages three to six. $20 for one year includes home delivery of six bimonthly issues. www.natgeolittlekidscom

reach to families and provide resources for schools and healthcare providers. The best place for DC families to access immunizations is at their primary medical provider as part of comprehensive well-child care. A family that does not have a healthcare provider can select one from a list of pediatric clinic locations in every ward. www.osse. dc.gov/immunization-attendance-policy

Fantastagirl & The Math Monster

Fantastagirl, a second-grade superhero who uses words to save the day, comes face to face with her worst nightmare: the Math Monster! When confronted with problems too big for words alone to solve, Fantastagirl must accept help from her friendly, furry, fraction-loving foe. While Fantastagirl and Math Monster use words and numbers to help her friends and scientist mom, something far more sinister than Math brews on the horizon. General admission, $25. Fantastagirl & The Math Monster is at Adventure Theatre at Glen Echo through Aug. 21. adventuretheatre-mtc.org.

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Large Selection of Children’s Books at SE Library Monthly Book Sales

The Friends of Southeast Library, 403 Seventh St. SE, book sales are on the second Saturday of every month, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The book sales are on the lower level of the library. Most books are $1. Proceeds supplement library programs. Donations are accepted in the blue bin on the side of the building. dclibrary.org/ southeast.

Imagination Stage Announces 2022-2023 Season

Imagination Stage, 4908 Ashburn Ave., Bethesda, has announced its six shows for 2022-2023, which include two newly commissioned world premieres, two musicals based on popular books, and two favorites especially for the very youngest theatre goers. The season starts in October and includes S.P.I.E.S. 2: The Flight of the Hawk, Oct. 29 to Nov. 20; Naked Mole

Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience, Nov. 16 to Jan. 8; Aquarium, Jan. 14 to Feb. 12; The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen, Feb. 15 to April 8; Wake Up, Brother Bear, March 18 to April 16; and Nate the Great, June 21 to Aug. 11. In addition, Imagination Stage is presenting a special limited engagement of Honolulu Theatre for Youth’s production of In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson, Oct. 15 to 22, 2022. Single tickets go on sale Sept. 1. imaginationstage.org.

Donate Your Old Golf Clubs

Have an old set of golf clubs packed in the corner of your garage? Donating equipment is another way to help support the DC area’s The First Tee. With the 2nd Swing Club Donation Program you can put your old equipment to great use and make a huge impact. The value of your used clubs and equipment is sent to The First Tee DC as a cash donation. The First Tee’s mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character and instill life-enhancing values through the game of golf. Read more at firstteedc.org/ get-involved-2/donate-golf-equipment. u

Arlington County Fair

The Arlington County Fair, Aug. 17 to 21, is one of the largest free events on the east coast and has been providing quality entertainment for over 40 years. In recent years, attendance has reached over 84,000 as people come from Arlington, Northern Virginia, and the DC Metro region to enjoy competitive exhibits, midway rides and games, entertainment, vendors, and more. You can also check out their free kids programming at the Kids Court. Activities include interactive games, live performances and coloring in their giveaway Country Fair Coloring Book. Admission is free; some activities are paid. Hours are Aug. 17 and 18, 5 to 10 p.m.; Aug. 19, 2 to 11 p.m.; Aug. 20, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; and Aug. 21, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The fair is at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center, 3501 Second St. South. arlingtoncountyfair.us. Photo: Courtesy of the Arlington County Fair

East of the River Magazine • September 2010

ELECTION SPECIAL

MARCH 2013

East of the River Magazine • August 2010

EAST of the RIVER MAGAZINE

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XWORD “Films” by Myles Mellor Across: 1. Shadow 6. Next to 12. Electrocardiograph, for short 15. “Later” 17. Horned, in a way 20. Therefore 22. Ron Howard thriller 24. Port-au-Prince is its capital 26. ‘This ___ surprise!’ 27. “Braveheart” hillside 28. Charming poem 29. Sports figure 30. Sinatra or Reagan 33. Sub home 36. Got wind of 37. Board game 39. Second homes 42. Safari country 45. Positive statements 46. Undisciplined 47. John Frankenheimer classic 55. Telephone trio 56. Cutting-edge 57. Letter enc., maybe 58. Some shirts 61. English Derby site 62. In ___ (harmonious) 64. Kicks out 65. Letter by Paul 70. Restore water 72. New ___ 73. Nicaragua’s former capital 77. Scoundrel 80. Gloomy 81. Varnish ingredient 82. Very 84. ___ Dee River 87. Martin Scorsese movie 92. Average name 93. Lubricator 94. Prima ballerina 95. Lover of wisdom 101. Org.’s kin

103. Foolish 104. Make sick 106. Play in the N.H.L. 110. “Last train” singer, Guthrie 111. Taiwanese information technology firm since 1976 112. Bound 114. Vast amount 115. Strips 117. Stanley Kubrick classic 122. Foam 123. Lets a player go 124. Singer Easton 125. Church seat 126. Cling (to) 127. Herring of the east North Atlantic

Down: 1. The “lightning Bolt” sprinter at the Olympics 2. Smart people’s group 3. Started 4. Whiskey ingredient 5. Huffington Post owner 6. Smoothie flavor 7. Resolved 8. Reg. 9. Québec’s ___ d’Orléans 10. Death 11. Like many shorelines 12. Biblical verb ending 13. Pursuer 14. Feliciano’s instrument 16. Kind of port 18. Ethereal singer, and namesakes 19. High-speed Internet inits. 21. Glower 23. Sago like starch 25. __ be nice if ... 31. In vogue 32. Marina sight 34. Name source

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 35. Computer architecture acronym 36. Six footed insect 38. Hardy’s partner 40. “Love Story” star first name: ___ Mcgraw 41. Insignificant amount 42. Roadie’s burden 43. Distant 44. IV league? 45. Joint groove 48. Oppose 49. ___ and outs 50. Balaam’s beast 51. “Uh-uh” 52. House room 53. Rider’s challenge in France 54. Wagner soprano

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East of the River Magazine – July 2022

Articles inside

The East Washingtonian – The Words “Dog Park” Need Not Divide

Our River: The Anacostia Peaceful Summer Walks along

How’s DC Doing on COVID Vaccines? – DC to Enforce Immunization Requirement in

Children Must Vaccinate to Attend School by Reed Tuckson

Maternal Mortality in the District: DC Works to Address Centuries of Structural Racism