Volume 10: Issue 7 February 27 - March 12, 2013
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Kitchen Crashers come to Luther Place pg 5
Trouble With Guns a volunteer and vendor speak out pg 7
Street Sense aims to serve as a vehicle for elevating voices and public debate on issues relating to poverty while also creating economic opportunities for people who are experiencing homelessness in our community.
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Families suing to save schools.
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Cynthia Mewborn sees “Good People.”
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Menace looms in Isotopia.
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Meet featured vendor Kenneth Middleton.
COVER ART ILLUSTRATION BY ERIC FALQUERO
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INTERNS Jeff Gray, Zoe King, Lauren Poole, Shonette Reed, Claire Riesenberg, Lanie Rivera
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OUR STORY Street Sense began in August 2003 after Laura Thompson Osuri and Ted Henson approached the National Coalition for the Homeless on separate occasions with the idea to start a street paper in Washington, D.C. Through the work of dedicated volunteers, Street Sense published its first issue in November 2003. In 2005, Street Sense achieved 501 ( c ) 3 status as a nonprofit organization, formed a board of directors and hired a full-time executive director. Today, Street Sense is published every two weeks through the efforts of four salaried employees, more than 100 active vendors, and dozens of volunteers. Nearly 30,000 copies are in circulation each month.
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VOLUNTEERS/WRITERS Jane Cave, Margaret Chapman, Brandon Caudill, Lilly Dymond, Ashley Edwards, Andrew Gena, Steve Gilberg, Jane Goforth, Roxanne Goldberg, Roberta Haber, Jesse Helfrich, Maurice King, Sean Lishansky, Victoria Hatterman O’Banion, Ashley Perkins, David Piper, Mark Rose, Willie Schatz, David Sellers, Kate Sheppard, Ernie Smith, Lilly Smith, Kelly Stellrecht, Brett Topping, Charlotte Tucker, Bryan Watkins, Marian Wiseman, Eugene Versluysen VENDORS Gladys Akins, Orin Andrus, Charles Armstrong Glenn Artis, Jake Ashford, Lawrence Autry, Daniel Ball, Alan Bates, Grady Baxter, Roberta Bear, Kenneth Belkovsky, Victoria Beaumont, Frosty Bibbee, Phillip Black, Reginald Black, Deana Black, Viktor Blokhine, Harmon Bracey, Debora Brantley, Andre Brinson, Kanon Brown, Reco Brown, Percy Carter, Sunny Chadwick, Conrad Cheek, Lea Ciochetti, Elena Cirpaci, Sarah Colin, Theresa Corbino, Anthony Crawford, Kwayera Dakari, Louise Davenport, Michael Davidson, James Davis, Charles Davis, Clifton Davis, Devon Dawkins, Chino Dean, David Denny, Janna Disraeli, Nema Dixon, Alvin Dixon-El, Charles Eatmon, Richard Embden, Pieus Ennels, Kristin Evald, Betty Everett, Joshua Faison, Patty Feris, Larry Garner, Anthony Gist-El, Marcus Green, Barron Hall, Dwight Harris, Dewayne Harrison, Lorrie Hayes, Patricia Henry, Shakaye Henry, Derian Hickman, Vennie Hill, Ibn Hipps, Jaamill Hipps, Anne Marie Holloway, Phillip Howard, James Hughes, Donald Johnson, Tavon Johnson, Mark Jones, Ryan Jones, Evanson Kamau, Tammy Karuza, Mike Leach, Ziang Lin, Anthony Lindsey, John Littlejohn, Michael Lyons, Kina Mathis, Authertimer Matthews, John Matthews, Charlie Mayfield, Marvin McFadden, Jermale McKnight, Jennifer McLaughlin, Jeffrey McNeil, Kenneth Middleton, Gary Minter, Anton Mitchell, L. Morrow, Jai Morton, Darryl Neal, Charles Nelson, James Nelson, Sammy Ngatiri, Evelyn Nnam, Amen O’Jango, Moyo Onibuje, Douglas Pangburn, Ebony Pannell, Earl Parkin, Franklin Payne, Aida Peery, Michael Pennycook, Lucifer Potter, Frank Pruden, Ash-Shaheed Rabbil, Clifford Ringwald, Anthony Robinson, Andrell Robsinson, Lawrence Rogers, Melania Scott, Chris Shaw, Veda Simpson, J. Simpson, Patty Smith, Gwynette Smith, Yvette Smith, Terron Solomon, Matt Southworth, Franklin Sterling, Warren Stevens, James Stewart, Billy Sullivan, Beverly Sutton, Sybil Taylor, Paul Taylor, Archie Thomas, Shernell Thomas, Victor Thompkins, Deborah Tibbs, Jacqueline Turner, Deborah Turner, Bada Umoja, Bertina Woodson
February 27 - March 12, 2013
Drugs Killing More Homeless Overdoses of drugs, particularly prescription pain-killers and heroin, have overtaken AIDS to become the leading cause of death for homeless adults, researchers have found. The findings came from a five-year study that tracked 28,033 homeless adults receiving treatment from the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program. But the conclusions apply to homeless populations in many urban parts of the United States, the study’s author and homeless advocates told Reuters News. A steep increase in the rate of drug overdose deaths reflects an overall rise in pain-killer abuse, said Dr. Travis Baggett of Massachusetts General Hospital, the lead author of the study. “This trend is happening across the country, in non-homeless populations too,” Baggett told Reuters. “Homeless people tend to experience in a magnified way the health issues that are going on in the general population.” The decline in AIDS-related deaths reflect decreasing infection rates and improved care and services for patients since a prior study. Of those who died, 17 percent died of drug overdoses, while 6 percent died of causes related to HIV, the virus that
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NEWS IN BRIEF causes AIDS.Cancer and heart disease each accounted for about 16 percent of the deaths. Homeless people are significantly more likely to die in a given year than their peers in the rest of the population, with those aged 25 to 44 being nine times more likely, and those aged 45 to 64 four-and-a-half times more likely to die, the study said. -Mary Otto
Renters Threatened With Jail An Arkansas state law allowing renters to be imprisoned for failure to pay rent resulted in charges against more than 1,200 tenants in 2012 according to a report issued by Human Rights Watch (HRW). Under the state’s “failure to vacate” law, a landlord can use the power of local prosecutors to enforce rental agreements. The report, titled “Pay the Rent or Face Arrest: Abusive Impacts of Arkansas’s Criminal Evictions Law”, speculates far more people may be impacted by the law because the “vast majority of tenants scramble to move out when faced with a 10-day notice to vacate rather than face trial-and with good reason.” According to the Arkansas Times, a non-legislative study group recommended significant changes to the state’s
laws that were “significantly out of balance” with respect to the treatment of landlords and tenants. The state commission who studied the law, as well as the HRW report, notes that the treatment of cases brought under the laws are significantly tilted in favor of landlords without providing tenants with basic housing rights afforded tenants in other states. Arkansas does not require landlords to maintain property in a habitable condition or to make repairs to property with dangerous conditions. In fact, the state laws are frequently used by landlords to intimidate tenants into moving out when those tenants have brought complaints about housing conditions to local inspectors, a practice known as retaliatory eviction that is banned in every state except Arkansas. Based on the state commission findings, legislators in Arkansas are considering as many as 15 changes to the landlord-tenant laws in the state. As of the writing of this article, none of these changes have been introduced in the Legislature in Arkansas. -Allen Hoorn
A Pastor’s Story of Redemption Christians comprise a little more than two percent of India’s population
but that has not daunted one formerly homeless Indian church leader. Pastor R. Abraham’s latest accomplishment brought together some 17,000 pastors to a daytime leadership conference and nearly 1 million people to four-day evening prayer meeting, Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) reported. The 60-year-old minister told the network that he was a young man embarking upon a career as a chemist when he was called by God to a religious life. “God said to me, ‘Son, I have called you for a very specific purpose. I want you to resign your job, get out of your home, and go and preach the gospel to your people,’” said Abraham. He obeyed the call but two months into his ministry he found himself broke, homeless, and hungry. “In the night I had no place to go, so I used to wait for the shops to pull down the shutters so that I could sleep in front of the corridors of the shops.” he said. “And I started to wonder, why did He call me? Why?” After two years of prayer and patience, Pastor Abraham joined forces with another minister to start New India Church of God. The organization now reaches across India through more than 3,000 churches.
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Faithful Heeding Call to Serve Panelist Rabbi Kevin Kleinman also with one another, she said. suggested that coopertive efforts “I think we have to be careful not make the most significant difference. to exile some of the players,” she “If we work in isolation we can only said. “I do think there is greed, but do so much,” Kleinman said. “Howevwe have to deal with the systems that er, to have an interfaith response to are … don’t close out capitalism; they hunger allows us to broaden the scope contribute, too.” of our work and have a more powerful Over one in six D.C. residents are at political voice locally and nationally.” risk of experiencing hunger, according Unlike Warren, forum participants to a 2010 USDA report. Roman hopes delved into the workings of the existthat the six new Walmart stores will ing food industry and the problems lower this statistic by alleviating areas within the market’s structure. Amerisuch as Wards 7 and 8 that are concans tend to satisfy their “superfluous sidered food insecure, which means desires” rather than essential needs the residents’ access to food sources and “big … is a part of the problem,” is limited. said Cloutier. Although Cloutier “We are empowagreed that large busiering the systems nesses provide the that created the foundation of the food problem,” said market, he said the curpanelist Hisham Morent, excessive industry -RABBI KEVIN KLEINMAN harram, the founder cannot transform to of the Good Tree serve low-income indiFarm of New Egypt. viduals while big companies control the Buying from Fortune 500 compamarket. nies such as Walmart that monopolize “It would be nice to think that the market allows control of both the these large businesses would respond quality and price of food, he said. to consumer demand for sustainable But Nancy Roman, CEO of the Disfood — as is happening in a place like trict Capital Area Food Bank (CAFB), Whole Foods — but I have to say, the refuted the idea that big companies history of ‘big food’ in America is should be replaced — big and small mostly dismal on issues of sustainfood businesses need to collaborate ability,” he said.
“If we work in isolation, we can only do so much.”
Pastor Rick Warren, left, argued for that religious freedom allows for societies to flourish on Feb. 12 at a Georgetown University speech for the Religious Freedom Project. PHOTO BY LANIE RIVERA
By Lanie Rivera Editorial Intern Interfaith collaboration to help the poor is a hot topic right now among religious leaders. That was evident in megachurch pastor Rick Warren’s recent speech at Georgetown University. And Christian, Jewish and Muslim panelists at a Faith, Food and Poverty forum held on Feb. 21 at the National Cathedral picked up the theme. “My religion is caring for the poor and the sick, and the orphan and the sex-trafficker and all these different people,” said Warren at the Feb. 12 Religious Freedom Project event dedicated to discussing the spiritual foundations of service in America. Warren shared the belief that his duties as a religious person include caring for the less fortunate, demonstrated by his ambitious “PEACE” plan in which the “A” stands for assisting the poor. This project aims to organizing Christians around the world to tackle problems the famed evangelist defines as “global giants”: spiritual emptiness, self-centered leadership, poverty, pandemic disease and illiteracy. In that spirit, members of Warren’s
Saddleback Church in Lakeforest, Calif. dedicated their efforts to feed the homeless. In fact, they recently spent 40 days serving three meals a day to the needy: an effort estimated to have helped 42,000 people. Warren stressed his view that such great efforts flow from the religious privileges of America and said religious liberty needed to be upheld by the combined efforts of all people. He said Christians need to pursue common ground and freedom for all believers and nonbelievers, and repent for their silence in the face of religious injustice. At the National Cathedral, forum panelists weighed the complexities of serving God and feeding the hungry in the modern world. Catholic theologian David Cloutier, director of the Common Market food cooperative, said that interfaith efforts to provide nutrition grow out of the responsibility each person has to God. “The three religions represented on the panel have a fundamental agreement: a shared vision of reverence for the Earth as God’s creation, and a shared commitment of their moral teachings that we have to feed those who hunger,” said Cloutier.
Newly appointed Capital Area Food Bank CEO Nancy Roman, right, commented on the religious leaders’ approach to help the hungry. PHOTO BY LANIE RIVERA
STREET SENSE February 27- March12, 2013
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NEWS
Transformed Kitchen Nurtures Women of Luther Place By Zoe King Editorial Intern
On a chilly Thursday evening, the women started gathering at the Luther Place Night Shelter. Two settled in at computer work stations while others found seats at long tables. The evening news played in the background and heat emanated from the fireplace. Beyond the simple pleasure of coming in from the cold, a special excitement hung in the air. The women were looking forward to the shelter’s monthly birthday celebration. And adding to the sweetness, they would be celebrating in a brand new kitchen funded by Scripps Network Interactive. Since the work was completed, the cozy kitchen has quickly become a favorite spot at Luther Place. “I think everyone spends more time in here now,” said resident Tashia Harris. “It feels like home.” The shelter, located at Luther Place Memorial Church just off Thomas Circle in Northwest Washington, is one of seven shelter and housing programs run by N Street Village, an organization that has been offering services to the homeless since 1972. Peter Shields who chairs N Street’s Board of Directors represents the Scripps lifestyle media network through his law firm. He has helped create a corporate partnership with N Street Village over the past couple of years. “Scripps has grown to love N Street,” he said. “They like the mission and the service we provide to the women.” In the fall, Scripps Network Interactive approached N Street Village about doing a kitchen renovation through their home improvement network, the DIY Network. “They have a show called Kitchen Crashers and we decided the kitchen at the Luther Place Night Shelter would be the best place,” said Shields.
The kitchen at the Luther Place Night Shelter, which feeds up to 31 women, hadn’t been renovated since it opened 20 years ago. Executive Director of N Street Village Schroeder Stribling described the old kitchen as “disorganized.” “It wasn’t very welcoming,” she said. “It was very closed off and you couldn’t interact with the people you were serving.” But all that changed with the whirlwind transformation that began on January 28 and lasted a total of five days start to finish. Alison Victoria, interior designer and host of Kitchen Crashers, was very involved in the process, overseeing the “crash” and shopping for new products. “She also took it upon herself to modify some things outside of the renovations to make it more residential and homey,” said Shields. “She wanted to be personally involved.” During the renovations, N Street Village arranged to feed the women of Luther Place Night Shelter in the multipurpose room at the main complex across the street. Scripps Network Interactive and Alison Victoria hosted an event on January 30 to unveil the new kitchen. Yet the renovations did not end until February 1. Board members, supporters, Luther Place Night Shelter residents and Scripps Network executives gathered to celebrate the new space. “Scripps execs came and talked about why they are invested in our community at N Street and what it means to them,” Shields said. “As a corporation they are able to live out their values and make a real difference.” The renovations included an oven complete with a stovetop, tables and chairs, wooden floors, a TV and console complete with a faux fireplace, a
Luther Place Night Shelter residents enjoying their new kitchen and dining room area. PHOTO BY ZOE KINGc toaster oven, computer desks, and most importantly, an ice machine. “We’re excited about the ice machine,” said Stribling. “Before, women had to move a cart from the 2nd floor to N Street’s main complex to get ice.” The new kitchen has received rave
PHOTO COURTESY OF N STREET VILLAGE
reviews, described as much more “organized” and “streamlined.” “The renovation has made it easier to provide the meals,” said Yvette Mosley, programs manager for Recovery Housing and Luther Place Night Shelter. “It’s made it more user friendly.” The new oven and stovetop are also welcome additions; prior, volunteers were only able to bring pre-cooked meals that could be warmed up in an oven. With the new stovetop, side dishes can be prepared to provide the residents with more fresh food for dinner, according to Shields. Mosley says the new space has also improved the selfesteem of the residents. “We have women that have lost their homes to foreclosure, eviction, lost their job, are fleeing domestic violence,” she said. “They get to have some sense of dignity.”
Before and After: A shelving unit has replaced a broken utensil drawer for more organized storage space. PHOTO BY ZOE KING
School Closings Battle Going to Court By Shonette Reed Editorial Intern A local grassroots organization is preparing to sue District Public School Chancellor Kaya Henderson over her plan to shut down 15 schools. Daniel del Pielago, education organizer at Empower DC, said his group will submit the lawsuit within the coming weeks, seeking to block Henderson’s plan of closing down the schools. “Using closures and all of this instability, it actually blocks us from looking at the task at hand, which is educating our young people,” said del Pielago. Henderson’s proposal would close down 15 public schools in the southeast quadrant of Washington. Former Chancellor Michelle Rhee closed 23 schools in 2008. The new round of closures would strike some of the same families again. During the earlier closures for instance, Mary Church Terrell Elementary School and McGogney Elementary School merged to create the Mary Church Terrell/McGogney School. This merged el-
ementary school is on the list to close in July of this year. D.C. City Council Member David Catania, who chairs the council’s education committee, has expressed concern that the public school system is shrinking because parents are moving their children to charter schools. “I believe that we are within a year or two of hitting an irreversible tipping point,” Catania said at a recent hearing on the planned closures. He worried about the possibility that “traditional public schools, as we know them, will become a thing of the past.” And opponents say closing down public schools will result in crowding at the remaining schools. The closures will affect more than 2,400 students and 540 employees. Charter schools, which work on a lottery pull, will leave those who are not chosen searching for a school to attend, they say. This will cause higher transportation costs for parents if they are unable to find a nearby school and if transportation is not offered by a more distant school.
Families protest the closing of local schools outside of the “State of the District” address on Feb. 5th. PHOTO BY LANIE RIVERA
“So while the resources are being saved by closing these schools, we want to see the resources put in the existing schools that are still open,” said Council Member Yvette Alexander as reported by ABC 7 news. Four of the 15 schools to be closed are in Ward 7: Ron Brown Middle School, Kenliworth Elementary, Davis Elementary and Winston Education Campus. Henderson said that the closing of half-empty schools will allow her to use the school system’s resources efficiently. But opponents doubt those claims. “Those schools closures haven’t resulted in better education outcomes; [they] haven’t saved our city or tax-
Drugs and Sports Don’t Mix By Eric Thompson-Bey Vendor My belief is that many professional athletes use drugs illegally. Whether the drugs are PEDs (Performance Enhancement Drugs), prescription, marijuana or cocaine, they can destroy an athlete’s reputation and credibility and put a black eye on the organization that he or she represents. Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds and Lance Armstrong are three of the biggest athletes linked to the use of PEDs. Unlike Clemens and Bonds, Armstrong has admitted to using PEDs in an interview with Oprah Winfrey. Armstrong founded the Livestrong Organization in 1997. Trek, Nike, Radio Shack and Oakley are among the companies that have announced they will no longer sponsor Armstrong, which will not help his or-
ganization. And as far as Clemens and Bonds, they were denied induction into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame and have had their reputations and credibility ruined. Olympic gold medalist Marion Jones was sent to prison and stripped of her medals for lying about the use of PEDs. There was a black cloud left over the USA Track and Field team because of her illegal drug use The National Basketball Association has reformed its marijuana policy. The NBA will no longer test its players for marijuana in the offseason, but will test for PEDs. The NBA has had an issue with marijuana for a long time now, and not testing its players for marijuana in the offseason won’t help. NBA player Josh Howard admitted that players smoke marijuana. He also admitted that he smokes during the offseason. By not testing its players during the offseason, what kind of message is the league sending to the fans and players? As a fan I think that message is not a good one. It’s like saying “go ahead and get high
payers any money, yet, the city and the school system continue to do the same thing in the name of working to better the public schools,” said del Pielago. Del Pielago considers the action to continue to close down public schools “discriminatory.” Public schools in Wards 5, 7 and 8 have a high concentration of minority children. He says efforts up until now to address the problems have offered no tangible benefits to the students or their families. “What we are trying to attack is the systemic nature of all of this,” del Pielago said. “So what we’re trying to bring attention to, and we’ve done so [is the fact that] this is a cycle.”
The 49ers and the Truth during the offseason.” It’s not a good look for the NBA. The NBA should rethink its marijuana policy and test year round. Cocaine should be considered a PED. I think it can enhance a player’s performance. Former boxer Aaron Pryor was known to use cocaine before fights. Pryor was an aggressive non-stop fighter, and he was a good one. Would he have been good if he wasn’t under the influence? Lawrence Taylor and Dexter Manley, two of the greatest National Football League players of the 80s and 90s, also used cocaine during their playing days. Taylor went on to become a Hall of Famer and Manley was banned from the league for multiple positive tests for cocaine. Both players dealt with addiction during their retirement, which led to legal issues. In the end, illegal drugs and PEDs have no place in sports. It sends the wrong message to us fans. The world looks at them as cheaters. The world of sports should just say not to do drugs and keep it clean.
By Veda Simpson, Vendor I myself am a real fan. How can you be a Redskin fan, then, in the switch of a light, like you change your underwear, be a Ravens fan? Now to answer Mr. Thompson-Bey, who must have been asleep. Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles saw that game and they are both blind. On the last play, the ball would have been in reach for Crabtree if he wasn’t held like the defensive player was in love with him or trying to kiss him. Ray Lewis was on the other side of the field so he did not goal line standoff. They wanted him to go out in glory. We wouldn’t feel good about getting glory like that and the refs shouldn’t be able to sleep after that. Baltimore might have had a strong first half but San Francisco had an explosive second half. Kaepernick was the MVP to me because: 1.He’s a rookie in the Super Bowl 2.17 points in four minutes 3.Ran the ball for a touchdown. But the real winner was Beyonce. I thought I was having a seizure. She was terrific.
STREET SENSE February 27 - March 12, 2013
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OPINION
Gun Violence: Not To Be Taken Lightly By Brett Mohar Volunteer It was 10 p.m. on New Years Day 1999. I was a sophomore in high school getting ready for bed without a care in the world. As I started drifting off the phone rang. The next thing I knew I was trying to sort out what my mom was saying. She was completely frantic and barely able to get out the words. The only part I was clearly able to understand was "Uncle Rick, Shawna, and Aunt Alicia are dead; [he] shot them all. They're all gone." Toxicology and police reports would eventually lay out what happened. A man my 21-year-old cousin had recently broken up with had spent the day drinking and crushing cocaine. Then he drove to her house. Her dad, my uncle, was there, installing the stereo system he bought her for Christmas. When the man knocked on the door, my uncle answered. Before he could even open the door the man shot through it, blowing the entrance wide open and killing my uncle. He then shot my aunt several times before finding my cousin locked in her bathroom on the phone with 911. He then knocked down the that door and blew her to pieces while she begged and pleaded for her life. The
man shot her so many times that the he stopped, reloaded and continued shooting her long after she was already gone. He then turned the gun on himself. Thirteen years later, I am 30 and the tears are still pouring down my face just writing about the "incident" and reliving the moment that a man I didn't even know stole from me my adolescent innocence, my trust in people, my faith in a higher power, and the ideology that had been ingrained in me since birth - that people are generally good and that good things happen to good people. All that went out the window as quickly as he could continue pulling that trigger. Pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop, pop... Silence. 11 times, 11 f***ing times. It was not until many years later that I learned that the gun the man used to massacre my loved ones was the same gun his father used to kill himself decades earlier. I have no idea why anyone would keep something like that around,
but that was his right, whether I like it or not. That part I have came to terms with. What I will never come to terms with is why the Second Amendment right to bear arms and form a well-regulated militia (in modern terms, a street gang) continues to override the constitutional right of other Americans (including my uncle, aunt and cousin) to life, liberty and the pursue of happiness. How far does it have to go and more importantly, will the senseless gun violence ever subside? That is one of very few questions I can answer and my response is simple: it will end as soon as our leaders stand up to the gun lobby and its tidal wave of money and influence. The National Rifle Association’s solution to the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School - arming school staff to protect against future attacks - makes about as much sense as a doctor prescribing a bottle of gin to patient seeking help for alcoholism. If the man who killed my loved ones
were still alive today and I had just 5 minutes alone with him, I would just calmly say only one simple word... Why? It is impossible for me to put into words or explain the destruction, the gut wrenching pain, the sight of my mother and grandmother - the two strongest people I’ve ever met - completely void of any explanations and unable to provide any acceptable answers or relief to my younger brother and myself. When the gun debate comes up and I am around people who don't know my story, I find it extremely hard to make my point without getting into my past. Still, I try to avoid it if I can because I think my personal experience with gun violence detracts from the most important point: that gun violence problem facing our country should not be examined based on any one tragedy. It needs to be addressed as a whole, it needs to be viewed for what it is, an epidemic. At this point in my life, my greatest fear is that if something is not done to change the gun laws and more importantly, gun culture in America (where there are 9 guns to every 10 Americans), more and more families are going to be forced to face a night like the one my family lived through.
Calling For Stricter Control Of Arms By Ken Belkosky Vendor It’s a shame that kids’ bus drivers are getting killed by everyday people with a either a regular shotgun or militarystyle weapon. It just makes me sick. I have a few ideas. One, a permanent ban for everyday people to possess military-style weapons and the ammunition for them. Also hollow-point bullets should be illegal. The only people who should be able to carry military-style weapons are the armed forces, police departments, sheriff department, SWAT teams and border patrol. There should also be universal crimi-
nal background checks and legitimate gun owners and their families should be fingerprinted and they will be logged into a universal database. Say, for instance, a weapon was stolen and the police find it. Instead of melting it down, it would be possible to get the fingerprints off of the gun and run it through the database. And, if the original owner is in database and his or her fingerprints are on the gun, the gun would be returned to the original owner. Getting back to military-style weapons: If someone wanted a military-style weapons for a collection, then the weapon should be disarmed so it can never be fired. I just don’t understand why anybody would want to own a military-style weapon when all it would be used for is to kill. I still believe in the Second Amendment. I think that people should just
have a simple handgun and a simple hunting rifle, but not these militarystyle weapons. I think it would be a lot simpler, and I am still following along with the Second Amendment. I am just coming up with way to reduce all this violence, whether it be school shootings or disgruntled employees shooting up their former offices. And another idea is, if someone wants to buy a gun, they must first go through psychiatric evaluation. If you agree with some of my ideas, then contact your congressman, your senator, your governor, your state house, your mayor, city council and some of your county officials. Pass along some of these ideas you just read. I am sorry I am bringing this issue up again, but I feel something needs to be done. End of the story.
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A Mind of My Own By Jeffery McNeil Vendor What is right is not always popular, and what is popular is not always right. Topics that are controversial are not feel-good essays. Good authors hit nerves and challenge conventional wisdom. Great authors raise pointed questions and dispel conventional norms. That is why I worry about minorities’ reverence for Barack Obama. I believe many have become too involved with the subject to be objective. To be critical or question anything he does is considered treason. Those who have criticized Obama in the past, such as Dr. Cornel West and Tavis Smiley, have been rebutted and vilified. Implying black Americans are smitten by Obama or questioning his record with minorities is considered being a tool or an Uncle Tom. However, when you examine the record, we are no better off today than when he got elected. While minorities have been dancing and celebrating, few have noticed that liberals have pickpocketed Obama, urging him to address issues which are not minority interests. They push him onto same-sex marriage, immigration and contraception. Meanwhile, his administration assures us he is not forgetting us. Then there are black spokesmen Touré and Al Sharpton, who love to jostle with the media about black culture. These self-appointed pitchmen feel obligated to educate “unsophisticated” minorities on the nuances of politics, explaining why Obama can't pass any legislation favoring minorities because it might alienate white people. This reminds me of his first term, when his administration sent black leaders and civil rights groups to dimin-
Presidents’ Day By Evelyn Nnam Vendor Presidents’ Day is all about honoring presidents and the different works they do in the United States. For example, take George Washington: He was the first president of the
Celebrating Equality ish expectations for minorities. I sat at one of those gatherings at the Martin Luther King library in Washington when the Black Caucus briefed us. They told us “he can't do much right now because it would look like he is showing favoritism.” After I wrote one article that was critical, I was pulled aside and told, “Don't criticize Obama. Wait till he gets a second term; things will change.” Although 97 percent of black voters, myself included, waited in long lines to get him reelected, the NAACPs, Al Sharptons and Tourés say we need to wait, it’s too risky for him to look like he is helping us. While he’s been fighting for abortion, liberating gays and opening borders, the black community has been told any help would be seen as preferential. The breaking point for me was when Obama suggested Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice as a possible candidate for Secretary of State but left her hanging because a few Republicans gave her a hard time. She was pushed under the bus for former Sen. John Kerry; however, Obama sent out the black cavalry to defend him, urging patience and not to question his decisions. Blame the Republicans, they said. If Jews, gays or Hispanics had voted overwhelmingly for a candidate and then seen their own get denied a post, would they be raising hell about it? Minorities sat mesmerized as Obama sent Valerie Jarrett and other black surrogates to make statements about how being demanding is belligerence. I also think it is ironic for our first African-American president to be bombing African countries like Yemen, Somalia and Mali while being diplomatic with terrorist nations like North Korea and China. It disheartens me that there are no black voices to con-
demn the hostile treatment of Islamic nations carried out by the Obama and his administration. During the inaugural speech and his State of the Union address, Obama’s generic togetherness speeches were depressing. And after watching his continual pandering to liberals, I got into an argument with someone smittened by Obama and was called an Uncle Tom. Truth is, I am fed up with black America’s mesmerization of Obama. Criticizing this mythical man is not being a traitor to your race. Objectivity brings perspective and ideas. Obama is not the Messiah. I don't need liberals, black leaders or pastors to tell me to wait for Obama. As a minority, I know how to wait. My grandparents waited for 40 acres and a mule, but I can't wait no more — I’ll be dead soon. After winning in 2004, George W. Bush said that he had political capital and intended to use it. Ninety-seven percent of the blacks voted for Obama and should use their capital also. When Obama starts pandering to liberals, minorities should drag him to Chicago, Baltimore, and Philadelphia and tell him to walk through our neighborhoods, visit our schools and see our hungry. We need your help; waiting is unacceptable. Advocating for blacks’ causes isn't militant or racist. Its what every group does when they get in power. It is to gain the most advantageous position. That is the American system If the black community let liberals turn our first African- American president into Gay Lincoln or President Abortion, it is incompetence of the highest order. Our history has been one of patience; it’s time to demand action.
By Sybil Taylor Vendor
United States. He was also one of the first Founding Fathers and served as the commander in chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Presidents Day is a day of acknowledgement and respect. There are many presidents who we honor: Theodore Roosevelt, Andrew Jackson, Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, Calvin Coolidge, John F. Ken-
nedy, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and many more! These presidents have given their leadership to the United States and improved many things that citizens and noncitizens have demanded to make the United States a better place. Now, as our president of the United States, we have elected President Barack Obama. He is the first black
president to ever serve for America. He has two daughters and a wife. As we honor and acknowledge our presidents, we have to respect the fact that they are doing all that they can to change laws and make the economy, health care, and education to become better. This is what Presidents Day means to me. Thank you, and God bless you all.
We honor our ancestors and brothers of 1800 Those who fought in the war Those who fought for this country Those that labored, working hard in the cotton field During those days a cold glass of water meant a lot So did the cool breeze from the trees We honor our famous black slaves and give thanks to America, who brought us this far to be where we are now We honor those that struggled very hard to keep America what it is. We thank all famous leaders: Martin Luther King President Kennedy Abraham Lincoln Frederick Douglas and so on... Who got segregation to where it is now, as we reunite as one race now.
STREET SENSE February 27 - March 12, 2013
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FEATURE
A Homeless Play About Real-Life People By Cynthia Mewborn Vendor
The play called “Good People” written by David Lindsay-Abaire brings Broadway to the Washington D.C. Arena Stage and illustrates a very real fundamental question: “Why aren’t there more plays about class and poverty in America?” The character Margaret played by Johanna Day gives a classic example: “Why do good people become homeless?” The set designer Todd Rosenthal brings South Boston’s Lower End right into front view. This must-see play directed by Jackie Maxwell gives each viewer a surreal front row seat to witness the unraveling intricacies in facing homelessness. Margaret’s displays of anger, frustration and confusion as the lead actress bring honest feelings to the stage while gradually revealing her personal emotional struggles as a single parent, the tension between the choices she’s had to make versus what she wanted to do. Her minimum wage boss at a dollar store doesn’t care about the ‘whys’. He’s only left with excuses (“I can’t make it in today or I am sorry, I am late”) and isn’t concerned until after he fires her. Her female landlord only cares about the rent and constantly reminds her about a teenage friend in the neighborhood who’s homeless and lives on the street. While her best friend tries to help
Johanna Day (left) as Margie and Michael Glenn (right) as Stevie in Arena Stage Rosemary Knower (left) as Dottie and at the Mead Center for American Theater’s production of Good People February Johanna Day as Margie (right). PHOTO COURTESY OF MARGOT SHULMAN & ARENA STAGE 1-March 10, 2013. PHOTO COURTESY OF MARGOT SCHULMAN & ARENA STAGE
keep her spirits up, the insensitive, cold, callous, cruel and ugly hands of homelessness provide a reminder that there’s not too many places to turn except within. That’s when Margaret’s what-ifs become as real as life itself. Every decision made up to this point reflects the unanswered questions of “If I had made different choices would my life have been different?” Meanwhile, an old flame named Mike played by Andrew Long brings this bitter un-
answered question home when he returns back to their poverty-stricken community, where the only way to beat the poverty rat race is through completing your education. Generally, homelessness mirrors self-imposed hardship versus unpredicted circumstances, uncontrolled conditions which have very little or nothing to do with a person’s choices. Nonetheless, the ramifications are always the same ... A very difficult road
CHILDREN’S ART: SOCK PUPPETS
There are 1,880 children experiencing homelessness in the District. The Homeless Children’s Playtime Project visits 6 different transitional housing and emergency shelter programs to provide weekly activities, healthy snacks, and opportunities to play and learn to as many children as possible.
Courtesy of the Homeless Children’s Playtime Project
ahead!! I don’t believe the playwright wanted the viewers to walk away from the play with the questions of what-if’s or shoulda’s or coulda’s but rather the impression of what actually happens to good people who end up homeless. “Good People”’s hard-onyour-luck comedy and stellar cast will leave you mesmerized and captivated. For tickets to the play call the Arena Stage at 202-488-3300. What is most impressive and has left a lasting impression is that this theater group and the Arena Stage are willing to go farther than just presenting a play. Arena Stage will open their doors to good people who currently face homelessness by providing a job fair on March 1, 2013 from 10:00am-2:00pm in the Mead Center for America Theater (1101 Sixth St., S.W.). Twenty local businesses, nonprofits and government agencies will be present for the event, a joint partnership with Arena Stage and Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells’s Office. Employers will be looking for talented, deserving people to employ, as well as organizations committed to improving job opportunities in our community. I would have to concur with Mr. Well’s who stated “it is a perfect example of local businesses and the community working together in helping to end homelessness.”
COMICS & GAMES
TERRON’S GAME: STREET LANDMARKS By Terron Solomon Vendor
s A Few Ye’asrRoad ‘Apiece’ y e o l G h Wit Down Life
The Street Sense Writers’ Group is led by two writing professionals and meets every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. The group’s goal is to develop ideas and collaborate on the next great issue of Street Sense.
So Yeah By Victoria Beaumont Vendor Good new issue to you, my loyal Street Sense readers. I know many of you saw “Yeah, so I hate” in the last issue. I’m not sorry for using the word “hate.” I don’t hate Street Sense. The newspaper helps many people. Heck, I want to start one in Los Angeles. What I hate is the fact that people have to be “residence free,” a term I made up trying to make light of a very stressful situation. I’m not homeless, I’m just “residence free.” It frustrates me — no, please forgive my French, but it f***ing pisses me off. No, I don’t expect the government to take care of us. I know that’s a view that is not shared by many of my fellow vendors. I don’t hate shelters, I simply hate that they have to exist. No child, woman or person should have to be in
Step By Step one because of domestic violence, illness or natural disasters. Yes, this includes pets as well. It becomes a challenge for a residence-free person to find a job when you have to take all your possessions to every job interview or to work with you. I couldn’t get a job bartending or at Macy’s due to the curfew. That is a real problem with shelters. I would like to thank three vendors who will remain nameless. However, if you read the paper, you know who you are. First, for a woman who has a scooter and writes about her cats. I did animal rescues, and I believe in animal therapy. Regardless of some personal feelings, I would like to see pictures of your babies. That may be a gift or a start for a new friendship. Second, to the gentleman who wrote about his two daughters: Wow, I am so impressed. You are a true man. I am
really sorry for reacting the way I did when we first met. Your girls are very lucky to have you in their life. A cat and a dog can get along. Third, but not least, for the first person I met selling Street Sense, thank you for listening to me. I will always remember the kindness you showed me at the first Writers’ Group I attended. I am very proud to have a friend like you in my life. When you shared your personal challenges in your life, I was impressed by what you have overcome. I hope your book makes a lot of money and fame. However, I’m still not voting for you. But for real, good luck to you. We will do lunch if I make it to L.A., babe. So yes, in closing, I don’t hate any of you. OK, maybe I do hate the Metro when the escalators are shut down and I have to carry a bundle of papers.
Moving Out of the Shelter to the Northwest Side By Aida Basnight-Peery Vendor On Feb. 13, 2013, the day of the new Street Sense Edition, I sold my morning papers and went to Writers’ Group. It was a very busy morning for me until the afternoon rolled around. I became hungry and needed to rewind a bit. So, I decided to take the bus to Bethany Center to eat lunch. As I was waiting for the bus, I saw a friend of mine sitting on the bench in Franklin Park and it dawned on me that I owed him a dollar. So, I walked up to him and asked him if he had $4.00 in change. He fumbled into his pocket and said “no” that he didn’t have any single bills. My friend says to me that I could go across the street to the hot dog vendor and buy a grape soda for him. I started to do just that when the bus pulled up. I didn’t want to miss this bus because I was pressing for time to get to Bethany Center before 1pm. So, I tried to get my friend’s attention to let him know that I would get his grape soda later.
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As I was walking towards the bus a gush of wind came from nowhere and I felt someone’s hands gently pushing me towards the bus. As I turned around there was no one behind. So, I was thinking to myself “I’m losing it”. I finally reached Bethany’s Center to have lunch before 1pm just as I was about to settle down to eat my lunch and to unwind. I heard my name coming from the director of Bethany Center. Ms. Evelyn Green was asking if anyone had seen Aida Peery? Director Green finally saw me sitting at the table about to eat and said to me “ Ms Peery, I’ve been looking for you all morning and I want to talk to you and grab your plate of food.” I was thinking to myself “what did I do wrong now?” So, I grabbed my plate of food and followed Ms. Green into her office. As I was carrying my food and walking behind her I finally asked her the fatal question “What did I do wrong now?” Ms. Green said to me “you didn’t do anything wrong.” “But, I am going to ask if you want something and you probably will say no you don’t want it.” So, I said, “try me.” Ms. Green offered me an efficiency
apartment. Believe me she didn’t have to ask me twice. I did an intake the next day with a licensed social worker, Mrs. Drago. I told Ms. Green and Mrs. Drago that I didn’t have a pay stub to show that I can be responsible in paying rent. They both told me that I didn’t need to worry about that right now. All I needed to do was to meet with a social worker twice a month, on my progress of finding a full-time job and live “stress-free!” God is so good! Once I moved into my new apartment, I dropped to my knees on the newly clean carpet and praised Jesus Christ Son of God to thank them both. I also want to give thanks to Bethany Center and N Street Village for giving me this wonderful blessing and opportunity to be able to “reach into my purse for keys to an apartment and to close the door behind me.” It took me a week to realize that I don’t have to share a bathroom, living room, dinning room, I can actually hear the radio/TV without interruptions of 90 women all talking at once. Bethany Center and N Street Village thank you and thank you.
By Kenneth Middleton Vendor I walk a path where there is no beginning nor end trying to stay sane. With every step I learn happiness, sadness, pleasure and pain, and every emotion in between. With every step I learn to laugh at the things that hurt me and cry for the things that don’t. With every step I bring all that I am to bear at this world and scoff at those who wish me harm. With every step I come closer to the man in need to become, a man pure of heart and insight. With every step I become more aware of my strengths and weaknesses I possess. With every step eliminate my limitations that have me under their thumb. With every step I fight against myself neither winning nor losing trying to live in the moment. With every step I learn to fear myself and love myself for who I am. With every step I become aware of the life in me and I learn to conquer my fears and become the man I need to be.
Back to Work By Phillip Black Vendor, “The Cat & The Hat” On Friday, March 1, I’ll be starting a new job. It’s part time working for a housing project in Greenbelt, MD. From 2:30 til 6:30 I’ll be working as a plumber. Even though it’s part time; it’s a starting point to get me to full time employment. It hasn’t been easy, but keeping my faith in God and the power of prayer is opening doors for me. From gaining custody of my children, to having housing, and now, a part time job is only the beginning for me and my two daughters. A good friend of mine once told me to always pray, and never worry. But if you worry, you shouldn’t pray. We always go through ups and downs in life, and most time we have to dig way down into ourselves to make our lives better. Staying healthy and happy can also make your life better. You don’t have to go through what you been through if you don’t want to. I know starting to work part time will turn into full time real soon; in order to finish anything, you first have to start. And on March 1, it’s my starting point.
The Mysterious Masonic Ring Chapter 2: Getting Cleaned Up
By John “Mick” Mathews Vendor
In the last installment Bill learns of the fate of the deceased Frank Allen, who is to be cremated and brought to the city’s mausoleum for the poor because he has no family to pay for a proper burial. Soon after, Bill and Kittie are approached by a woman in a burgundy business suit they believe to be a cop. They find out the women, Eileen Bell, is an in fact an attorney representing Frank’s estate who has come to notify Bill that he has been named in the will. She hands him a business card with a note advising him to meet her the next day, as it is in his “best interest.” Going to the office of a high-class lawyer like Ms. Bell meant I had to get cleaned up a bit. Her Connecticut Avenue office building was bound to have a security guard, and getting past him while smelling of three days of sweat and grime would be like trying to slip a popsicle stick through the eye of a needle. It just wasn’t gonna happen, whether I had an appointment or not. When Homeland Security woke Kittie and me up at our usual crash spot on the west porch of the Old Post Office Pavilion at 5:30 a.m. the next morning, we decided that Miriam’s Kitchen at the corner of 24th and G streets northwest would be our first stop. Af-
ter a 20-minute walk, we arrived at the gate which, when opened, would lead down to the basement of the Western Presbyterian Church. We had another 20 minutes to wait, before Tyrone, the security guard at Miriam’s, let us through at 6:30 sharp. Besides Kittie and me, a line of about 50 other homeless and needy people milled through the gate and down the winding double set of stairs leading to the basement. Catherine, the simultaneously mellow yet perky deputy director of Miriam’s Kitchen, was waiting at the bottom of the steps to hand out the numbers on plastic cards that determine the order in which people are served breakfast. She greeted everyone as they walked through the open door. As we walked in, the barest hint of a grin came to my face as the aroma of fresh coffee hit my nostrils. We found seats at a round table close to the kitchen. I fished through my backpack and pulled out my most prized possession, a plastic Au Bon Pain coffee cup, and walked over to the industrial-sized coffee urn in the back, where I poured myself a cup. I grabbed a ceramic mug from a nearby rack and filled it with hot water. A table next to the coffee urn was laden with plastic pitchers of milk, tall ramekins
of sugar, bins of plastic eating utensils, coffee stirrers, tea bags and two different brands of sugar substitute. I helped myself to a splash of milk and a generous portion of sugar. I dropped a tea bag into the hot water and added some milk and sugar. All Kittie would have to do was stir and she’d have a cup of tea just the way she liked it. Making my way back to my seat, I found that Kittie had gotten each of us a bowl of Cheerios, heavily sweetened with more sugar. I took my seat and handed her the cup of tea. “Thanks,” she said as she started stirring her tea. “I see you had to get your drug of choice.” Kittie can’t stand coffee, not the smell nor taste of it, and she never misses an opportunity to tease me about my near-obsession with it. “My dear, anything less would be uncivilized,” I teased back, using the same accent and inflection as that guy from the famous Grey Poupon commercial. Kittie, the social butterfly and general motormouth that she is, turned to the Hispanic guy seated across from us at the table and said, “My friend here needs to go to NA for his caffeine addiction. Juan Valdez is his drug dealer.” I couldn’t help but feel sorry for the
guy as I watched Kittie drag him into our ongoing joke. He gave her a really confused look, rolled his eyes, and went back to eating his cereal without a word. I’m not even sure he spoke English. I stifled a chuckle and stuffed another spoonful of Cheerios into my mouth. I looked over and noticed that the clothing line had started to form. If I was to meet with a power lawyer like Ms. Bell, I needed to upgrade from the dirty T-shirt and jeans I’d been wearing the last few days, so I got in line. When I got to the volunteer standing behind the lightweight wooden podium, I put in an order for a button-up collared shirt, tie, slacks, dress shoes and socks, as well as a clean pair of drawers. As I went back to my seat, the roll-up blind in the window that separated the kitchen from the dining room slid up, and Catherine announced the breakfast menu in a loud voice. “Thank you for coming to Miriam’s Kitchen. Today’s breakfast is buttermilk pancakes, with your choice of strawberry or maple syrup; scrambled eggs, plain or with ham and cheese; your choice of homefries or grits; salad, fruit, and your choice of pastries. Thank you again for coming to Miriam’s everyone, and enjoy your breakfast.”
BEFORE THE RAIN PT 16: GADJO LOVE AT RUTA’S CAFE By Chris Shaw The Cowboy Poet Lyndsey knew not the Herculean strength she possessed as the rescue basket swung Loomis groundward on the muddy tarmac strip in Destrehan’s improvised landing. But she caught the bumbling, stumbling object of her affections, preventing further damage to his bruised bones. Loomis’ ego fared better. He’d been through so much he could only mumble “I Put A Spell On You,” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. Lyndsey caught her breath with a tiny impish but imperceptible smile. Just then our Cajun super pilot, Maurice Febre, placed a greasestained paw over the shoulder of her slicker. “Ever’ting come out sympatique?” he growled solicitously. She turned suddenly and managed a
faint pleasantry, “Oh, uh yes, except — ” “’Ceptin’ what, Lyndsey,” Loomis broke in, unprompted. Lyndsey tightened, not wishing to remind either man how close that split shagbark tree stump came to spearing their craft as they were gaining altitude due west northwest of the Goofer-Dust shack! Cap’n Febre tactfully (for ‘heem’) changed subjects with a jolly croak, “Hey galz et boyz, my stummick set to callin’ me name,” and beckoned broadly to a sway-backed structure covered with rusty Jax beer, Coke and DoubleCola signs, which had blended into the corroded tin walls nicely. A screen door flew open, and an immense bearded Gypsy, Frankie Daro, welcomed the trio in, boisterously upbeat, in a flagrant effort to conceal his join’t dearth of business. “Welcome, welcome, friends to the heh-heh, World Famous, RUTA’S CAFE!”
Lyndsey sat them down, snuggling fairly close to Loomis. As Frankie and his sullen-looking son clattered plates and thwacked bottles of water in front of the guests, Lyndsey tried to keep a grip on this most fluid situation. “Where would your cousin, did you say, Loomis- where did he or she reside, here? In Destrehan?” Loomis rubbed his eyes. “I’m not so sure, Sis, maybe we should ride on over to Buras. That’s a town where--” Lyndsey raised her hand like a sexy traffic cop. “Hold it. What sort of nonesense are you pulling, Mister Reader?” Loomis drifted out once again. “Y’know, I’m seein’ a little brick an’ grassy yard fenced in iron, and it was a place called Foggy, or F-froggy Bottom..” Lyndsey blanched, her lips frozen in an “O”, as in “Ohhh-but I know where Foggy Bottom is. That’s impossible-- it’s in Washington D.C.!!”
Frankie Daro stared intently at Loomis and Lyndsey. Febre had stomped off, desperate to find the FEMA trailer those two were supposed to bunk in for now. Loomis started humming, cryptically, and you could barely hear the words,”I ain’t got a mutha, No sister or Brutha; I’m jus’ a lonely Frog, a lookin’ for a home... Whoo-oo-oowhoo,hoo-hoo-hooWHOOAHHH...” Frankie leaned over and handed a huge trencher of the crawfish dish to Lyndsey. Gravely, he told her, “Dis is some serious Gadjo, I mean you and the boy. Be extem’ly CAREFUL. Eat dis feast, cos you need BIG PROTECK’SHN!!! More I cannot tell you, but I’ll put the All Seein’ Eye out for whereever you be goin’! (TO BE CONTINUED)
STREET SENSE February 27 - March 12, 2013
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FICTION
Cantabile Voysces uprise, lyræ spun prise.
Fluht ved Bloem
PART THRE E
Lang bluwe lake hovers. Unreal birde wry callez, “Ay, for graesis and clude!”
ISOTOPIA
By Ibn Hipps Vendor
ILLUSTRATION BY ERNIE SMITH
A place where the people care for no one but themselves...
Isotopia is a dark city, filled with crime, depression and sadness. There are no places of religious worship, so the only way to find peace is to pray independently. Josh, Melissa and their five kids are the only few good people left in Isotopia. Though Josh was once prisoner to the corruption and crime that lurks around every corner, his love for Melissa has caused him to rise above and fight for good. Josh is a part of the secret society of good people, including judges and police force, that all believe in the same God and a child that, when born, will bring goodness to Isotopia once again. See, Josh went through a lot coming up as a child and as a teenager. Even early adulthood was rough. Josh’s father was very mean — abusive to both him and his mom. Josh wasn’t the only child, but he got it the worst. From black eyes to busted lips, Josh’s father ruled his household with an iron fist. So pain is what Josh was used to, until he met Melissa. Melissa says Josh’s father was a crazed woman-beater, who used to beat Josh and his mom senseless. Josh never had a real friend. Coming up in a dysfunctional family, he was raised as a Muslim child. So his household had strict rules. Melissa says Josh wasn’t allowed to have friends outside of his religion. But his father was so strict about it that
Josh couldn’t even make friends that shared their faith. Melissa says Josh was born trapped, until she met him and released him from all his pain. That’s what she liked about Josh, that rough toughness thoroughbred. Because through it all, she could sense pure good intentions in Josh’s heart. He’s open minded, that’s what she likes about him. She loves that gangster and a gentleman style. BUT HIS HEART! For some reason, through all that thug, she can see better change in him. “Through it all (the madness) a man hangs strong. Strength in a man (wow!),” says Melissa. That’s when they met, Josh and Melissa, some time ago. “A good heart that beats inside a strong man, in a city like Isotopia, is a plus,” Melissa says. So Melissa snatched him up quick -slowed him down and married Josh, for better or worse. One time, when Josh was around 23 years old, he got into some trouble that nearly cost his life. Some thug from the neighborhood that he was living in at the time tried to rob him. He shot at Josh 19 times - only hitting him 3 times. One hit him in the shoulder, one in the left leg, and the last bullet hit him in the back. Bullets of hatred and genocide. Seeing is believing: visions of good and evil from those who follow the souls of the lost. (Isotopia)
A child of pure heart shall be born. People of hope continuously pray for that day to come. Josh and his family pray for something better than the way things are now. Josh prays for a better life for his wife and kids. (Isoptopia) Isotopia lies on a desert land. No life, nothing rests outside of the city. But inside the cursed city lies a little hope, no larger than a mustard seed. Faith is all she needs. (Isotopia) The hope lies deep deep deep inside a small neighborhood where the homeless and poor live. You can hear late night sounds of prayer, and you can hear their cries for a better something. One night after work - pay week Josh was just leaving work. For some reason, he decided to take a shortcut to his 280 XE sports car. Knowing how dangerous Isotopia is at night, Josh was armed with a 9mm handgun, the gun permit tucked next to his paycheck. Josh was on his way home to the wife and kids. (He’s a family man now, more responsible than he used to be) This night he was rushing home, but ran into a little trouble, prolonging his journey. Even though Josh was armed, he still wasn’t trying to hurt anyone. He was smooth with any situation he came in contact with (but things just happen, like this robbery that’s going on as we speak). (To Be Continued)
street sense
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By Franklin Sterling Vendor
street sense
StreetSense.org/NewOffice
Vendor Profile: Kenneth Middleton Zoe King Editorial Intern Kenneth Middleton has lived much of his life battling depression. It wasn’t until he discovered Buddhism, and found the love of his life, that he was able to find some stability and peace. “I like to walk down the street, find a quiet spot and just listen to the wind blow, to the birds sing, the cars go by — I call it quiet noise.” On any given day, 41-year-old Kenneth Middleton can be found meditating, preparing to start his day. “In Georgetown there’s a lot of woods,” he said. “There’s a small creek; I listen to the water and it lets me float away.” Originally from Oklahoma, Middleton lived with his mother until age 6 when his mother gave him up. After his father passed away from stomach cancer when he was 17, Middleton went to live with his grandmother in Washington, D.C. A year and a half later, Middleton got
his first apartment and began working at the Department of Employment Services. However, he quit after about a year after falling into depression. “I don’t remember most of it,” he said. “I was in real dark times.” While battling depression, Middleton went back to live with his grandmother, whom he said was like a “second mom.” While living at home, Middleton picked up different odd jobs from masonry and carpentry, to food service. “If you put it in my hands, I can pretty much fix it,” he said. “I’ve had a lot of jobs, I’m literally a jack of all trades.” At age 26, Middleton got back on his feet, working his way up from a dishwasher to a server at TGI Fridays. Middleton also worked at the Manor House as a cook and waiter, as well as working for UPS. However, he soon fell into another bout of depression. “That one lasted a good five years,” he explained. “I was taking medication, but it didn’t help; it would just put me to sleep.”
Unification Needed in Washington By Reginald Black Vendor Anywhere on the globe you can find urban areas and in those urban areas there exist a vast array of pitfalls, misfortunes and missteps that can lead someone to poverty. The recession of 2007-2008 has shown us that no one is safe from the grips of unforeseen troubles that may contribute to a person or a family falling below the poverty line. In most cases folks are just left to fend for themselves. It beckons one to ask the question: is this model the right one to have? Can a person/or family really tackle poverty alone? For some this may be possible, but others may need more help tackling their issues. While the District of Colombia has many programs, the many agencies that help the poor do not have organization or unity. That lack is probably hurting the city more than any budget cuts or losses the city incurs.
On January 9, 2013 The Holy Redeemer Catholic church held a class on how to organize the homeless. A good question to ask is how a city can unite itself. The answer would have to be something similar to what the Motor city (aka Detroit) is doing. The city of Detroit has something called Detroit Action Commonwealth. The DAC is not a service agency. Instead it is a member-led organization. The volunteers and members work together to address immediate hardships that disempower individuals. I have come up with a new term for an organization like this- a resident’s union coalition. The DAC calls itself a non-profit, nonpartisan community organization. Its mission is to advance justice and human development in all of its dimensions. Some of these dimensions include social, personal or spiritual issues. The DAC started their outreach efforts
During his second bout of depression, Middleton began living in the Center for Creative Non-Violence in 2000, not wanting to “burden” his grandmother any longer. During his stay at the CCNV, Middleton pretty much kept to himself. “I was a perpetual loner; I didn’t really hang around a lot of people,” he said. “I was always a lone wolf.” Middleton floated from shelter to shelter, picking up odd jobs to make ends meet. In 2005 he returned to the CCNV having saved a little money, and tried to get back on track. Then he fell in with the wrong crowd. “It kind of spiraled out of control,” he said. “That’s when I did a lot of soul searching.” Middleton began looking to religion; although he was raised Baptist, he never followed the religion as an adult. He researched different religions from Christianity to Wiccan, in search of a faith that would work best for him. And then he discovered Buddhism. “Buddhism was more my style,” he explained. “It made me realize that all I had to do was let go, let go of the pain and everything that was hurting me.” Middleton began reading books about Buddhism, doing mantras and
meditating. While there are many traditions of Buddhism according to Middleton, he identifies himself as a Pure Earth Buddhist. “We do the same thing that other Buddhists do; we live our lives the way that’s comfortable for us,” he said. Middleton lived for a year and a half with a friend, however he returned to the CCNV in 2009 due to their conflicting religious beliefs. Two years later, Middleton began dating Rashawn Bowser, an old friend he had met in 2004. Four months ago, the two became engaged. “We click better than any female I’ve ever been with; I find my peace through Rashawn,” he said. “She’s the love of my life.” Although Middleton is currently training Bowser in Buddhism, he says he prefers to meditate alone. Middleton, who has not fallen back into depression since becoming a Buddhist, says that the religion has given him more peace than he has ever had in his life. “It’s taught me how to get in touch with my true feelings about what life really is,” he said. “I’m able to love myself and love others in a way that I’ve never been able to before.”
in soups kitchens in the city of Detroit. Clearly the District is falling short of being a role model city for the nation. Detroit Action Commonwealth has more than 3,800 individuals who have participated in activities. More than 1, 400 folks are signed up as members of the organization. Mary Jones, who serves on the board of Detroit Action Commonwealth briefly described the kind of approach DAC takes in addressing the various issues those experiencing poverty may have. She said that DAC “works one-on-one with an individual first.” The DAC currently has three chapters that conduct weekly meetings to address common issues found through those one-on-one discussions. Many of those issues turn into campaigns and actions. The DAC has also allied with student organizations at the University of Michigan. The bottom line and point of having organizations like the DAC is to unite people behind issues of common concern and make sure that these issues are brought before leadership and addressed. Clark Washington, who also serves on the board of DAC, described the fight to start
a street court outreach to help residents in his county to pay or waive tickets and fees that prevent these residents from obtaining documentation. Just these few DAC successes have sparked interest here in the District. Would an organization like DAC push D.C. service agencies to work together? Hopefully in the near future these questions will inspire the growth of such a member-led organization locally. Only together can we make sure that our issues get addressed and ensure that people have a better chance of not falling through the cracks in life that can lead to homelessness and poverty.
Mary Jones (left), Bob Malloy, Reginald Black, and Clark Washington PHOTO BY REGINALD BLACK
Service Spotlight: Samaritan Inns From Samaritan Inns Since 1985, the Samaritan Inns program has served over 12,000 homeless and addicted men and women in Washington, D.C. The organization is dedicated to helping individuals who have lost their connections in society to return to the community as contributing members. The program employs a three-phase Recovery Continuum which promotes independence and personal responsibility. Participants are provided with single room occupancy (SRO) housing and counseling as they work to stay sober and build careers. “Life is good,” said program graduate Steve Patton, who said with help from Samaritan Inns he has been able to beat a drug addiction to find work as an electrician. He is married now and is preparing to buy a home. “I don’t ever want to look back,” Patton added.
DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS HOTLINE 1-888-7WE HELP (1-888-793-4357)
SHELTER Calvary Women’s Services 110 Maryland Avenue, NE (202) 289-0596 (office) (202) 289-2111 (shelter) www.calvaryservices.org Central Union Mission (Men) 1350 R Street, NW (202) 745–7118, www.missiondc.org Open Door Shelter (Women) 425 2nd Street, NW (202) 393–1909 www.newhopeministriesdc.org/id3.html Community of Hope (Family) 1413 Girard Street, NW (202) 232–7356,www.communityofhopedc.org Covenant House Washington (Youth) 2001 Mississippi Avenue, SE (202) 610–9600, www.covenanthousedc.org John Young Center (Women) 119 D Street, NW (202) 639–8469, www.catholiccharitiesdc.org
Samaritan Inns prides itself in helping men and women break the chronic cycle of substance abuse and homelessness in the Nation’s Capital. For more information on the Recovery Continuum or how to get involved, please go to www.samaritaninns.org. The organization is located at 2523 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20009
STREET SENSE February 27 - March 12, 2013
COMMUNITY SERVICES Thrive DC Breakfast served Mon.-Fri., 9:30-11 a.m. Dinner for women and children, Mon.-Fri., 3-6 p.m. 1525 Newton St, NW (202) 737–9311, www.thrivedc.org
2114 14th Street, NW (202) 328–6608, www.marthastable.org
Miriam’s Kitchen 2401 Virginia Avenue, NW (202) 452–8089, www.miriamskitchen.org
Sasha Bruce Youthwork 741 8th Street, SE (202) 675–9340, www.sashabruce.org
The Welcome Table Church of the Epiphany 1317 G Street, NW (202) 347–2635, http://www.epiphanydc. org/ministry/welcometbl.htm
So Others Might Eat (SOME) 71 “O” Street, NW (202) 797–8806; www.some.org
MEDICAL RESOURCES
Academy of Hope GED Center 601 Edgewood Street, NE (202) 269-6623, www.aohdc.org
Christ House 1717 Columbia Road, NW (202) 328–1100, www.christhouse.org
Steve Patton and his wife. PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVE PATTON
My Sister’s Place PO Box 29596, Washington, DC 20017 (202) 529-5261 (office) (202) 529-5991 (24-hour hotline) N Street Village (Women) 1333 N Street, NW (202) 939–2060, www.nstreetvillage.org Samaritan Inns 2523 14th St., NW (202) 667 - 8831 http://www.samaritaninns.org/home/ New York Ave Shelter (Men 18+) 1355–57 New York Avenue, NE (202) 832–2359
FOOD Charlie’s Place 1830 Connecticut Avenue, NW (202) 232–3066 www.stmargaretsdc.org/charliesplac Church of the Pilgrims (Sundays only) 2201 P Street, NW (202) 387–6612, www.churchofthepilgrims.org Food and Friends 219 Riggs Road, NE (202) 269–2277, www.foodandfriends.org
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Unity Health Care, Inc. 3020 14th Street, NW (202) 745–4300,www.unityhealthcare.org Whitman–Walker Clinic 1407 S Street, NW (202) 797–3500, www.wwc.org
OUTREACH CENTERS Bread for the City 1525 Seventh Street, NW (202) 265–2400 1640 Good Hope Road, SE (202) 561–8587, www.breadforthecity.org Community Council for the Homeless at Friendship Place 4713 Wisconsin Avenue NW (202) 364–1419, www.cchfp.org Bethany Women’s Center 1333 N Street, NW (202) 939–2060, www.nstreetvillage.org Father McKenna Center 19 Eye Street, NW (202) 842–1112 Friendship House 619 D Street, SE (202) 675–9050, www.friendshiphouse.net Georgetown Ministry Center 1041 Wisconsin Avenue, NW (202) 338–8301 www.georgetownministrycenter.org Martha’s Table
Rachel’s Women’s Center 1222 11th Street, NW (202) 682–1005, www.ccdsd.org/howorwc.php
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Catholic Community Services 924 G Street, NW (202) 772–4300, www.ccs–dc.org D.C. Coalition for the Homeless 1234 Massachusetts Ave., NW (202) 347–8870, www.dccfh.org Community Family Life Services 305 E Street, NW (202) 347–0511, www.cflsdc.org Foundry Methodist Church 1500 16th Street, NW (202) 332–4010, www.foundryumc.org Gospel Rescue Ministries (Men) 810 5th Street, NW (202) 842–1731, www.grm.org Hermano Pedro Day Center 3211 Sacred Heart Way, NW (202) 332–2874 www.ccs–dc.org/find/services/ JHP, Inc. 425 2nd Street, NW (202) 544–9126, www.jobshavepriority.org Samaritan Ministry 1345 U Street, SE 1516 Hamilton Street, NW (202) 889–7702, www.samaritanministry.org
SHELTER HOTLINE: 1–800–535–7252
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Pure Thoughts
The Cries of a Child
By Robert Warren, Vendor
By Rashawn Bowser Vendor
As my foot touches the block I look forward to see men and women who don’t think much about me. I often wonder, are their thoughts as pure as can be? We’re all mentally challenged, the Lord forgive us, please. This journey I take to Miriam’s to see people are people and love just like me. All taking a journey, trying to fulfill their needs. When our time together ends, where will the journey lead?
There is a child so young and tender so full of life so tiny and pure so full of energy so loved and proud Yet when I look into these innocent eyes... I see the tears that will not fall the pain that dare not show the dream that dare not be dreamt I see it all in their innocent eyes and I hear the cries of that one little child.