07 03 2013 by Street Sense Media

Volume 10: Issue 17 July 3 - 16, 2013

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STREET SENSE July 3 - 16, 2013

NEWS IN BRIEF City Looking at Future of D.C.’s Largest Homeless Shelter

At Second and D Streets NW, the District’s Federal City Shelter has served the homeless since the 1980s, when the building was turned over to anti-poverty activists Mitch Snyder, Carol Fennelly, and other members of the Community for Creative Non-Violence. These days the facility, known simply as CCNV, houses more than 1,300 homeless men and women, as well as several programs that serve the poor, including DC Central Kitchen. But the structure, a former city college building, is badly in need of repair. It is also located on prime downtown real estate and vulnerable to development pressures. At a June 27 hearing, city and nonprofit leaders, homeless advocates and shelter residents gathered for a public oversight hearing to mull the future of the shelter. “We have the opportunity to do something great at this site,” said Chapman Todd, a consultant who works on affordable and supportive housing programs. Under one of the plans discussed, the

YES!

city-owned building would be sold and the proceeds would be used to build a new state-of-the-art shelter and housing facility on an adjacent parking lot, owned by CCNV. Under another, the parking lot would be sold and the current building renovated. Yet some neighbors of the shelter would like to see it shut down altogether, said homeless advocate Eric Sheptock who stays at the shelter and is worried about its possible closure. “Saying ‘not in my backyard’ or NIMBY does nothing to help the people who are being pushed out,” warned Sheptock, who insisted that future plans for the property should be made with the involvement of the city’s homeless community. After listening to a number of witnesses, Ward One Council Member Jim Graham, who chairs the council’s human services committee, said he would introduce legislation that would establish a task force made up of city officials, nonprofit leaders and advocates who would be charged with developing a plan for the site and reporting back to the council in six months’ time. “The building obviously has real problems,” Graham said. But he noted the importance of the place in the District’s history. “I knew Mitch Snyder and Carol Fennelly. There is an incredibly valuable tradition of activism and selfless work” tied up in the shelter, he said. Future planning for the site should reflect that, Graham noted. “I want to see the District of Columbia doing the right thing by homeless people.” - By Mary Otto

FY14 Budget Includes Changes to Homeless Law Individuals and families staying in some District shelters will be required to start placing money in an escrow account under a new city plan intended to move homeless people toward self-sufficiency. The initiative, backed by D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray, was approved by the D.C. Council as an amendment to the District’s Budget Support Act for fiscal year 2014. In its original version, the plan raised concern among homeless advocates who feared the savings requirement might cause the city’s poorest residents to lose their shelter beds if they failed to make the required contributions to savings. In response, the council revised the legislation. Homeless program clients who fail to save will no longer face the loss of their shelter placements, though they may face other sanctions. The escrow plan will be tailored to the needs and circumstances of each participant, with exemptions given to those who can prove they need the money to meet other reasonable expenses. The amendment was one of several to the city’s Homeless Services Reform Act that the council modified following a letter from nearly 200 advocacy organizations expressing concerns. In addition, the council entirely eliminated a controversial “provisional shelter” amendment that would have allowed families and individuals to be placed in shelters on a temporary basis while the city determined their eligibility for homeless services. Advocates, who worried that families would lose shelter without a hearing or a chance to appeal, expressed

relief that the amendment was dropped. Amber Harding, staff attorney at the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless, said she was happy with the outcome of the vote, praising the “strong coalition” that worked for constructive changes to the amendments. She said she hoped the same shared sense of purpose would be sustained in the continuing effort to address the needs of the city’s poor and homeless residents. “I hope there’s some kind of momentum going forward,” said Harding. “I hope people keep the energy up.” D.C.’s Department of Human Services Director David Berns said he was disappointed with the loss of the “provisional shelter” amendment, which he defended as a tool to free up beds in the city’s overburdened family shelters for those who had nowhere else to turn. “This critical amendment allowed the targeting of resources to those most in need by diverting those who may have other housing options,” said Berns. He added that the department would “continue to develop ways to divert families from shelters into sustainable housing and reconnect them with community support.” Overall, however, Berns said he was pleased by the passage of the city budget that he said included funding for “enhanced supports and services for low income and homeless individuals and families,” such as an additional $7 million for homeless services and an increase of $25 million for helping families on welfare with case management, job training, and other supports. - By Mary Otto

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Determined to Succeed Thirteen scholarship recipients bring awareness to challenges homeless children face in the public school system By Angela Harvey Editorial Intern Street Sense was asked not to use some last names to protect privacy. Swami experienced homelessness at age 8 after his mother lost her job and could no longer afford the rent on their Illinois apartment. For two years the mother and son lived in shelters, until his mother found employment and they got a stable place. Things started normalizing and “life was somewhat peaceful.” But at age 12, Swami was removed from his home by the state Department of Children and Family Services after reports of abuse and neglect. Thus began his two year journey through the foster care system. Swami, 19, now a sophomore at the University of Illinois, wrote in an essay that he had seven foster care placements and “about 700 horrifying memories to accompany those placements.” Swami shared his story on June 17 during a discussion at the Rayburn House Office Building, along with 12 other young adults who experienced homelessness as minors. They are college students from across the country who each received a $2,000 scholarship a year and a half ago from the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth. “We want policymakers to hear directly from the youth,” said Barbara Duffield, policy director of the Association. Several congressional staff members attended the discussion. She hopes they share with their bosses “an understanding of why youth become homeless, and of the gaps in the services available to them.” Nationally, more than 1 million children experienced homelessness during the 2010-11 school year—a 14 percent increase from the previous year. In the District, there were more than 3,000 homeless residents enrolled in school during the 2010-11 school year, a 22 percent increase in one year, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The department of education defines homelessness as being without a fixed, regular, adequate nighttime residence. This includes those who are sharing the housing of others; living in hotels and

motels, trailer parks, camping grounds, emergency or transitional housing; awaiting foster care placement; and living in areas not designed for sleeping or in substandard housing. “Education is an important way for young people to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness in their families,” said Barb Dexter, a homeless education liaison for the Anchorage School District, who moderated the discussion. Although the individual stories were unique, several commonalities were shared when students identified factors that contributed to their family’s unstable housing situation: working parents unable to afford housing, single parents, parents with drug or alcohol addictions, incarcerated parents, parents with health problems, being kicked out and leaving to escape “family drama” such as domestic violence. “When you’re in a situation where the ones causing all of your heartache and stress are your family, you really don’t have anyone to turn to,” said Raven, 20, a sophomore at Louisiana State University. “Teachers and counselors might listen, but they can’t understand what you’re going through.” Nicholas, 20, a sophomore at the University of North Carolina, said he focused on work to avoid dealing with his reality. “If you keep your mind busy, you don’t have time to think of where am I going to sleep, or when is the next time I’m going to get food?”

• • • • • •

College students who experienced homelessness as children and youth shared difficulties they had completing their K-12 education during the of the Voices of Youth Discussion in the Rayburn House Office Building June 17. PHOTO BY ANGELA HARVEY

Several students described being reluctant to disclose their living situation or lack of parental involvement with teachers and school administrators due to embarrassment or not wanting to be labeled as a troubled youth. “When a teenager is homeless a lot of people think they are a problem child or that it must be something that they’ve done,” said Tina, 20, a junior at Salem State University. “But that’s usually not the case. We are the victims of our parents’ decisions or unfortunate situations.” To ensure that students who are experiencing homelessness have the best chance at completing high school, the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act requires states to have a state coordinator for homeless education and a

McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act Federal law enacted in 1987 to address problems homeless children and youth face in enrolling, attending and succeeding in school. Each state must have a state coordinator for the education of homeless children and youth who reports on the progress school districts make in implementing the law. Each school district must have a homeless education liaison, the primary contact for the family, school staff, shelter workers and other service providers. Immediate school enrollment regardless of disputes over school selection or placement, or missing information such as birth certificates and immunization records. Guaranteed access to additional educational services needed in order to meet state academic achievement standards. Funds are awarded to states based on the proportion of funds it receives that year under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.

homeless education liaison in each school district. Some of the larger districts often have their own homeless education programs, said Jan Moore, a program specialist at the National Center for Homeless Education, a technical assistance center that works with school districts to make sure the law is implemented. The law focuses on school access and success. Each state gets federal money that is disbursed to the school districts through a competitive subgrant program. The school district liaison is responsible for working with students to remove barriers to enrollment, to maintain satisfactory attendance, and to reach academic achievement standards. Annual state performance reports monitor the school districts’ adherence to the law and compare the districts receiving grants to the ones that are not, Moore said. “The McKinney-Vento is a non-funded mandate. Only about 9 percent of school districts get subgrants,” Moore said. “The other 91 percent are serving kids without receiving any federal funds, and the burden falls on the school districts.” A majority of the students at the discussion credited involved teachers and education support professionals with helping them excel in school and make it into college. Students said these advocates often filled the role of a substitute parent. “I had a phenomenal support group of

STREET SENSE July 3 - 16, 2013

NEWS

Students told of obstacles and assistance they experienced during periods of homelessness. PHOTO BY ANGELA HARVEY

four teachers who I called my four moms,” said Spencer, 20, a junior at University of Wisconsin. “They made sure I went to school and kept my grades up. They always made sure I had what I needed, if it was a bed that night, or food, or whatever. Without their support I definitely would not be where I am right now.” Irene, 19, a junior at Texas State University, said a supportive guidance counselor encouraged her to go to college because of her high academic achievement, but she worries there are students

who might not get the same type of help. “It wasn’t until the school noticed I had good grades that I felt like I was important,” she said. “There are so many kids with problems who don’t get good grades and are not going to get noticed.” For students who were considered to be unaccompanied youths, their lack of guardianship made it difficult for them to meet certain requirements, or to utilize programs available for low-income families. Many recalled forging their parents’ signatures on report cards and other forms.

Many said they were not able to apply for free and reduced lunch, or for financial aid for college because they did not have someone to fill out the applications. “Being in a position where I was unaccompanied and not necessarily adopted by someone else left me with no guardianship,” said Tia, 19, a sophomore at Meredith College. Their experience with homelessness or broken families is not far from the students’ minds as they continue their college educations. Some have taken on

the legal guardianship of younger siblings. Others said they struggle to pay for housing and tuition due to a lack of financial support from parents or guardians. These are reasons why it was important for them to have the discussion in Washington, D.C., to hopefully encourage changes in education policies that affect children in similar situations. “I want lawmakers to be compelled to do something,” Duffield said. “You have to be educated, but you also have to be moved, and that’s what these kids’ stories do.”

INFOGRAPHIC BY ANGELA HARVEY

The Business at HAND By Kristen Farnam Editorial Intern The challenge of funding and building vibrant affordable housing communities got plenty of discussion at the 22nd annual Housing Association of Nonprofit Developers (HAND) meeting and expo. The recent sold-out gathering drew affordable housing officials, developers and other professionals from throughout the region to the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, VA to mull the future of their industry. Affordable housing’s dependence on public funding from bonds and tax credits was on everyone’s mind at a town hall-style forum led by a panel of housing officials from Virginia, the District,and Maryland. Moderator David Bowers, Vice President and Mid-Atlantic Market Leader at Enterprise Community Partners, kicked off a lively exchange by asking about the possible impact of dwindling support. “We have to be mindful about how we’re using resources in the tax credit program,” noted Susan Dewey, Executive Director of the Virginia Housing Development Authority. Harry Sewell, Executive Director of the D.C. Housing Finance Agency, said surviv-

al lay in asking a larger question: “What business are we in?” Then, answering his own question, Sewell urged all affordable housing agencies and advocates to think bigger and more holistically about the communities they are building. Explaining that one of the key priorities for the D.C. Housing Finance Agency at this moment is to focus not only on the supply side of the problem, but also on the demand side, he used the example of the once enormously-profitable Kodak company. Kodak was forced to declare bankruptcy, Sewell said, because of a failure of vi- Panel Members at the housing assoaciation of nonprofit developers 2013 town hall dission. The company put all of its money scussion of affordable housing. into the film business, rather than the im- PHOTO COURTESY OF JEEYHE KIM PAK age business.

“We have to be mindful about how we’re using resources in the tax credit program.” -Susan Dewey Virginia Housing Development Authority

“We’ve been philosophical about this— we see this as the Kodak moment of our industry,” Sewell said. It is not enough to simply provide affordable housing for low-income families, but agencies must “help kids graduate and help parents get job training.” That statement led to the topic of transforming neighborhoods. Sewell noted that his agency is focusing on “what we can do to cause a catalytic effect.” When audience members, mostly nonprofit developers, were given the chance to ask questions, one attendee wanted to know more about the philanthropic community’s contribution to affordable housing ventures. That brought the discussion back to funding.

ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID SEROTA

“We as an industry have to do what we can to get the private sector,” responded Raymond Skinner, Secretary of the Maryland Department for Housing and Community Development. Sewell added that the philanthropic community also provides “brain power.” And in a spot of good news for affordable housing, Sewell noted that although federal funding is on the decline, new revenues are available thanks to the region’s expanding population and tax base. Sewell said his agency plans to “harness the growth of the city” in an effort to provide more affordable housing. A final question from

the audience was about individuals with special needs and their housing options, and all three panelists responded with similar messages. Skinner explained that his department has been looking to alternative sources and organizations for aid and has successfully received more funding. Dewey’s Virginia agency has created a statewide task force looking at how the physically-disabled can be better served. Sewell commented that D.C. is looking toward all of the agencies that could possibly provide assistance for this type of housing. All three panelists stressed that more is being done across the metropolitan area to better accommodate the physically and mentally disabled. And they emphasized that overall, throughout the region, collaborative efforts are succeeding in providing desperately needed affordable housing.

STREET SENSE July 3 - 16, 2013

NEWS

What Will Happen to the CCNV?

Housing Agency Returns to Ballot

Three decades ago, advocate Mitch Snyder helped raise awareness about Washington’s growing homeless crisis, organizing sit-ins and hunger strikes that were the beginning of something much larger. In 1983, after a series of dramatic protests, the old college building that would become the Community for Creative NonViolence (CCNV), or Federal City Shelter, was turned over to the protesters. After four years of renovations, the shelter was considered a model for the nation, offering help to those experiencing extreme poverty. At 425 2nd Street NW, homeless individuals found a place of stability. CCNV’s innovations also raised the standard for homeless services. After the shelter opened, D.C. had to start treating its homeless residents better. After serving the homeless for 30 years, homeless advocates say it is time to think about the future of CCNV. At a June 27 hearing called by D.C. City Council member Jim Graham, witnesses had the chance to air their thoughts on the facility, which currently houses over 1,300 men and women. They were also anxious to talk about a possible renovation or new building at the site that could give new life to homeless services in the city. Eric Sheptock, chairman of the homeless advocacy group Shelter Housing and Respectful Change (SHARC) raised the concern that a 30-year agreement that requires the District to use the property for the homeless will expire in July 2016. He spoke of the importance of developing a future plan that would offer improved homeless services on the site. “The city’s response to the homeless has been poor,” said Sheptock. “The project is an opportunity to reverse the effects of these failures,” he said, “We need to show people that we want to end homelessness, we’re in it to win it.” Will Merrifield, a lawyer with the Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless, said that in considering uses for the property, the city should keep the human potential and human rights of homeless

Voters in Arlington County will get another chance to decide whether to establish a local housing authority. A government agency would help address the dwindling supply of affordable housing in the affluent county, say members of the Green Party of Arlington County, who collected the 2,845 signatures required to get the question on the ballot for the November election. “The cost of renting here costs more than anywhere else” in the area, said Green Party leader John Reeder.“The county needs to be doing something to help the people,” he added. A 2008 referendum to establish a housing authority in the county went down to defeat. Yet Reeder and other supporters say that development pressures and displacement of low-wage workers have continued since then. And some research appears to support their position. The 20,000 private market-rate apartments that were available in Arlington in 2000 to people earning 60 percent or less of the median area income, slid to 5,300 by 2011, according to the Virginia Tech Center for Housing Research. Reeder and other Green Party leaders argue that a county housing agency would bring new focus to the job of preserving and creating affordable housing-and would be eligible to garner funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support such efforts. But Arlington County Board members and affordable housing nonprofit directors oppose the idea of the county housing authority. County Board Vice Chair Jay Fisette said the agency is not needed because Ar-

lington already has one of the best affordable housing programs in the country. “I have no doubt that this community I live in does more to support and fund affordable housing than any other locality in Virginia,” said Fisette in a telephone interview. He noted that Arlington allocates five percent of its budget to this cause. “The investment we make dwarfs other localities,” said Fisette, who like other opponents of the referendum, argued that rather than providing new tools or making new funds available, a housing authority would add another administrative cost to the county budget. Arlington County has more than 6,000 units of affordable housing, which makes up 14-15 percent of its housing stock, said board member Christopher Zimmerman. In addition, the county has a revolving fund to supplement the supply and requires developers to provide affordable housing in many new projects. Nina Janopaul, president and CEO of Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, dismissed the idea of a county housing authority getting funding from an overstretched HUD. She said the nation as a whole already has a $25 billion backlog of unfunded public housing needs. “In this context,” Janopaul said, “I see virtually no chance that a new Arlington County public housing authority could access new funding from HUD.” Walter Webdale, president and CEO of Arlington County’s AHD Inc., which also deals with affordable housing, agreed, saying the idea is outdated. “It was a wonderful idea 30 years ago, but as of now HUD doesn’t have any new money to fund a housing authority,” Webdale said. The county board plans to discuss the measure at either its July 13 or July 16 meeting. It must discuss the issue 90 days before the election, Board spokesperson Diana Sun said.

to a whopping 17 years depending upon the species. Female cicadas can lay up to 100 eggs. Some predators of cicadas are birds and squirrels. Male cicadas’ vibrato exceeds 120 dB, which is among the loudest of all species of insect. They have the ability to cause hearing loss, while others can create sounds so high pitched, they are inaudible to the human ear. They don’t bite or sting, but might misidentify your arm or leg as a branch or tree. Some of the trees in which cicadas do their fine-dining are oak, cypress, wil-

low, ash, and maple. For some, cicadas have become a delicacy, but I prefer to admire their short visit by looking at them if they land on a tree or on a window. If you want to try to see some in your neighborhood just cut the grass and the mower’s loud sounds will attract both males and females to your location. If you happen to be an individual who doesn’t like insects clinging to you, just a slight swing of the arm would be sufficient. Happy entomology observing... And may a cicada land on you!! If you happen to like cicadas that is...

By Reginald Black, Vendor, “Da’ Street Reportin’ Artist”

people in mind. “Many of the people I describe have been marginalized,” said Merrifield. “Housing is an absolute human right. It’s an affordable housing issue, it’s a living wage issue.” Graham, who chairs the city council’s human services committee, spoke in support of continuing to serve the homeless at the site, in spite of development pressures in the area near Union Station. “We can do things here to help everybody,” he said. Rico Harris, executive director of CCNV and an unpaid volunteer and shelter resident, said shelter services are needed in this city. “We have been trying to keep Mitch Snyder’s dream going,” Harris said. “We feel like we are on the front lines.” He also said that services should be improved. “I think it’s very important that you do something about 1,300 people, I think it’s paramount that you remember we are talking about 1,300 lives.” Julia Lightfoot, executive director of Clean and Sober Streets, a recovery program also housed at CCNV, spoke of the potential of the shelter’s residents. “There is no such thing as they can’t succeed,” referring to the residents she sees daily. “Nobody wants to live in an alley. Our task becomes to provide an environment where that person can succeed, so whatever we decide, we must include structure, safety and an expectation that they can succeed,” she said. Henry Pierce, who also works for Clean and Sober Streets, said, “I been on the streets, been in abandoned buildings, I didn’t consider myself homeless. I’ve seen thousands of men and women come through and be successful.” He spoke with gratitude of the help he received at CCNV. “It’s not about substance abuse treatment, it is about rehabilitation and the city afforded a way for us to do that, a lot of people got help in that building.”

By Mark Rose, Volunteer

News From the Brood! By Cynthia Mewborn, Vendor “C=MB2”

You’ll not only see these prehistoric creatures in your neighborhoods, but you’ll hear them as well. Let’s discuss what you can expect from this fascinating species of insect, that emerge from the earth only every 17 years. First let me assure you of this: they are neither interested in interrupting your barbecues nor trying to create a new fashion statement by clinging to your hair. And even if they stray into your home through an open door or window, they are definitely not interested in taking

up permanent residence. Now for the stuff that I think is so interesting about these cicadas: they display two different life cycles. During the nymph stage, they live underground, use their very strong legs for digging and feed on root juices. The emerging mature cicadas shed their hard exoskeletons to become the winged imagoes that ultimately become airborne. There are 170 species in North America and currently over 2,500 different types around the world. The life cycle of the genus Magicicada can range from 13 years

On the Streets of Philadelphia photos by Brett Mohar

STREET SENSE July 3 - 16 , 2013

FEATURE Peaces of a Dream By David Denny Vendor Sketches of rage silhouetted by colors of hope Outlines and pencil can’t convey the true scope. Betwixt at the brink of the surreal and real A blatant betrayal of how you do and don’t feel. Can’t control this spinning cycle in motion Can’t switch on euphoria or emotion. Indifferent to the insanity or the sane Inured to the numbness or the pain. Standing on a pedestal for all to view Looking into eyes that are laughing at you. Can’t escape this social blight An effigy thrashing in the night. Always ready to speak in lies Never able to face truth’s eyes. Nothing is ever what it seems When your reality is pieces of a dream.

CHILDREN’S ART: FROM D.C. GENERAL

There are 1,868 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

COMICS & GAMES

INDEPENDENCE DAY Street Independence Day

r o f s r e Che Indians! the

fireworks

Happy Birthday

red white blue

barbecues

National Mall

celebrate

revolutionary

parade

Equality Forum at the Human Rights Campaign Headquarters 1640 Rhode Island Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 | Tuesday, July 16th, 6:00 pm

concerts

John Adams

StreetSense.org/lessonsofhope • RSVP: forums@streetsense.org • #LessonsOfHope

lessons of On Their Own: A Forum Discussion on Youth Homelessness

STREET SENSE July 3 - 16, 2013

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OPINION

Slavery Through Rose-Colored Glasses E.W. Jackson blames War on Poverty programs for the decline of the modern black family. By Jeffery McNeil Vendor E.W. Jackson, a candidate for Lieutenant Governor of Virginia, recently said that slavery was not as destructive for black families as the Great Society programs of the 1960s. “I’ll tell you that the programs that began in the sixties, the programs that began to tell women that you don’t need a man in the home, the government will take care of you, that began to tell men, you don’t need to be in the home, the government will take care of this woman and take care of these children. That’s when the black family began to deteriorate,” said West on a recent campaign appearance. “In 1960 most black children were raised in two parent, monogamous families. By now, by this time, we have only twenty percent of black children being raised in two parent, monogamous families with the married man and woman raising those children,”

Jackson said. “It wasn’t slavery that did that, it was government that did that. It tried to solve problems that only god can solve and that only we as human beings can solve.” To see a black man in Virginia, one of the original slave states, suggest to white Southerners that slavery kept families together is absurd, reckless, and dangerous. While Jackson harks back to his own family roots in slavery, and implies that his family stayed together, he is in the minority. For many black Americans, trying to even find their roots is virtually impossible. As a black man, I understand Jackson’s contempt for the left, I feel his rage. I am no fan of the civil rights activists that have left many minorities misled,

uninformed and broke. I am tired of the mama drama, foul language, and promiscuity that has contributed to the black poverty crisis. But when someone like Jackson weighs in with words like slavery and Jim Crow, it’s like throwing a juicy carcass to bloodthirsty wolves and reinforcing the dark side of bigotry. It gives the Tea Party great delight to see a black man mock his own kind. There was a time when black leaders from different ideological perspectives put their differences aside to focus on those who didn’t have much opportunity for self-advancement. Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Dubois didn’t see eye to eye but worked tirelessly so one day someone like E.W. Jackson, who has attained prominence and influence, could pass that ability to the next generation of the downtrodden, demeaned and demoralized people known as the black race.

To disparage and insult the poor and downtrodden isn’t in the spirit of black conservatism, which encourages hard work, self reliance and independence. Instead, it drives away the dying message of self-help and personal responsibility preached by those who have led us this far. E.W. Jackson, your vision of family is warped. Your rhetoric is disgraceful and reinforces stereotypes that blacks are sex starved baby-makers which appeals to the darkest denominators of reality. It is a reality that black men are in crisis, but your words are not uplifting; rather they are reinforcing what some whites feel about us.

The Invisible Problem of Youth Homelessness By Darla Bardine Policy Director, National Network for Youth Roughly 550,000 youth in America are homeless for more than a week every year. This number is rough, because there has never been a national study of youth homelessness in America, despite the fact that there are homeless youth in every community in the United States. In fact, 2013 was the first year that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s point-in-time count made a concentrated effort to count youth. The National Network for Youth (NN4Y) has been a nonprofit membership organization since 1974, representing service providers, state agencies, coalitions and advocates who work in the trenches to provide services for runaways, homeless and other disconnected youth. We define youth as young people 12 to 24 years of age. These young people become homeless for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause is severe family conflict, including physical violence, sexual abuse, chronic neglect or abandonment. Youth also become homeless when their families force them to leave due to pregnancy, nonacceptance of sexual orientation or gender identity, drug or alcohol use, or to reduce family size due to a lack of resources. Youth homelessness also reflects the

deficits in public systems of care, such as child welfare, juvenile justice and child mental health systems. Last year, nearly 30,000 youth were emancipated from foster care, and approximately 100,000 youth left the juvenile justice system. These youth exit these systems with little to no financial or housing resources. Youth homelessness and suffering is often invisible. These young people who find themselves alone without a home often “couch surf.” This term is used to describe a young person who sleeps on a friend or acquaintance’s couch, usually for a few nights here and there. During the day, these young people often hang out in public libraries, Laundromats, or with other youth on the streets in an effort to stay safe. We have very limited national data about youth homelessness in America. Studies have shown an over-representation of LGBT youth, which average 20 to 30 percent of the overall youth homelessness population. These young people are more likely to be assaulted or sexually exploited than their heterosexual homeless peers. In many cities, youth shelters use either a lottery or first-come-first-serve policy to determine which homeless youth get a safe place to sleep. There are often not enough beds. What is known is that homeless youth and young adults are at

great risk for human trafficking, exploitation, mental health disabilities, chemical or alcohol dependency, criminal justice involvement and death. The U.S. Department of Justice reports age 12 as the average age of entry into the sex trafficking industry. Runaway and homeless youth are targeted by traffickers because they are unprotected, desperate, abandoned, and longing for someone to love and take care of them. According to a Colorado study on homeless and runaway youth, within 48 hours, 30 percent of runaway and homeless youth become trafficking victims. These young people are exploited in ways most people cannot begin to imagine or understand. Given the diverse pathways to youth homelessness and the developmental needs of young people, youth require a specialized solution to their homelessness. Among the most important strategies are: • Early inter vention ser v ices and family reunification efforts. Increased housing options for youth with education and job training. • Transitional programs for youth who either can’t be reunified with family, are aging out of foster care, or are exiting juvenile detention. • The National Network for Youth focuses its policy advocacy efforts on legislation relating to runaway and homeless

youth, the juvenile justice system, human trafficking, and the foster care system. Currently, the Network is focused on the FY 2014 federal budget process because the sequester cut Runaway and Homeless Youth Act (RHYA) programs from approximately $115 million pre-sequester to $109.5 million, with the most significant cuts given to RHY service providers, a 6.42 percent cut in grant funding. The Network asked Congress for $128 million for RHYA programs for FY 2014, with $3 million of this amount going to fund the Prevalence, Needs and Characteristics of Homeless Youth study that is called for in the statute, but has never been conducted due to a lack of resources. The Runaway and Homeless Youth Act, which became law in 1974, is up for reauthorization this year. Senator Leahy, a fierce champion for homeless youth, is planning to pursue reauthorization after the immigration bill has cleared the committee. Darla Bardine will serve as a panelist for “On Their Own” a Street-Sense sponsored forum on youth homelessness. The event will be held on Wednesday July 16 at 6 p.m. at the Human Rights Campaign 1640 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington D.C.

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.

Food Trucks, Pt. 2 By Phillip Black Vendor, “The Cat in the Hat” The District’s food trucks won a major victory June 18. The D.C. City Council voted unanimously to complete the approval process for regulations setting out where and how food trucks may operate in the city. Food trucks will have mobile vending zones and can apply for guaranteed spots. To me, it’s going to hurt local food places like Lawson’s, Soup of Seattle and Cosi. After more than four years of debating, it’s true that if the food trucks show up late, they will lose their spot to

another food truck vendor. It’s almost like selling Street Sense papers. First come, first serve. I’ve even eaten from the food trucks and believe me, the food is very good. Maybe there is enough money to go around that everyone can be happy. The downtown lunchtime is big business and hopefully more people will still support the food trucks and local food business. Can’t we all just get along?

ILLUSTRATION BY TYLER HARCHELROAD

Not a Word By Rashawn Bowsher Vendor Here I am in a room full of people and not a word is spoken. Neither side wants to talk; neither side wants to know. So, I go outside to get some air. On the other side a man was smoking. He smiled and said, “Hello.” I smiled back and lit my cigarette.

Generational Reflection By Carlton Johnson Vendor, “InkFlow”

Once again, nothing was said. So, walking down the street to get on the bus I saw a woman and her child. They smiled at me. I smiled back as they walked by me. Not a word was said.

deeply rooted picture perfect flashbacks emotional creations unexplainable, unpredictable replications.. . the mysteries within the bloodline generational reflection.. . I see them in your eyes, face and body language.. . the mysteries within bloodline replication, generational reflection, timeless creation, magical life time moment, and realized miracles.. . the greatest marvel known to mankind.. . the unbelievable part in my life.. . the best part of my body and soul replicated within you, you and you.. . the mysteries within my bloodline.. . bewildered by the connection to predestination shared between the two.. .

I walked to the bus stop alone. When the bus finally arrived, I got on and saw it was full. I found my own seat. Across from me was a woman. She smiled. I smiled back. Once again it is silent, and not a word is spoken.

Mind’s Eye By Kenneth Middleton, Vendor I see the sounds around me, from the smallest bird to the largest trunk. I see all. I hear my own heart beat in unison with the wind. I stand still in the wake of my own thoughts and learn to live in my chaos. I feel the sounds as they vibrate through my soul. With my five senses the sounds build my world and carry me away in the midst of my mind.

ISOTOPIA Ibn Hipps Vendor As Josh entered the headquarters, he saw his uncle sitting at a huge round table full of old men looking very angry at the world. “I never thought you would be this put together,” Josh said as he approached the round table to take a seat. Sitting amongst the most serious looking men he’d ever seen, a prayer of protection was said by the head elder of the Circle. Then the meeting began, with questions from each member of the Circle directed at Josh. One elder shouted, wild and crazy, “Ask him about the visions he’s been having!” Josh replied, “How the hell do you know about my dreams and visions?!” If they know about my visions, then they must know about my wife’s visions and the kid’s too, Josh thought to himself. One elder shouted out, “The truth must be told!” “Well, the Child of Life of Light was

given to me seven years ago from the one God himself,” Josh quickly replied. A mumbling sound echoed through the group. “Why didn’t you let us know?” his uncle demanded. “To protect my family and my family members - you can understand that, right?” Josh replied, “But what is most important, is that the baby has reached his full potential. As half the world has been cleaned of its evil and evil thoughts - the child is now ready for war on the evil hearts and souls of Isotopia.” As the Circle looked at each other, they said in harmonic unison, “We know Josh.” Josh looked amazed as he recognized their combined voice to be that of Maliki himself! Josh jumped up from his chair in surprise, “Now this is weird!” The Secret Circle of Love let Josh know that the elders of the Circle could tune in on the child now that he had reached his full powers of good. Josh’s uncle giggled, “This is Isotopia’s

STREET SENSE July 3 - 16, 2013

PART Ten

last stand for peace, love, and happiness for all of Isotopia.” A small area still resides with a caring heart resting inside the neighborhood of Strive 77 Drive East, hidden from all infection and contamination. After understanding the big secret that Josh kept from his uncle, the Secret Circle of Love explained to Josh the power of Prayers and Chants of Love that keep the elders in tune with the one God himself. This also connects them directly to the Child of Life of Light. The Circle now had permission to leverage its full power together with the Child of Life of Light, now that the child had reached his full potential. “At one time, God didn’t allow the elders to tune in with the human-like child. Now the permission is given, that’s how we knew the child was here,” explained Josh’s uncle. Josh left the headquarters, unsurprised about Isotopia, but really ready for war on evil and its army of hatred: drugs, disease, and prostitution. Josh is ready. (to be continued)

The Mysterious Masonic Ring By John Matthews Vendor, “Mick” Last time: Bill finds a secret compartment in the ring box and inside is a note with a cryptic message, detailing a specific location. He begins to decipher the riddle, and explains to Kittie its historical language. Kittie is in disbelief, wondering how Bill could know all of these facts.. “How the hell do you know that?” she asked, looking a bit frustrated. “Because, my dear, besides being a member of the First Continental Congress, Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolution, President of the Constitutional Convention, and serving two terms as the President of the United States elected under the U.S. Constitution, Washington also served as chairman of a Freemason lodge in Alexandria, Virginia. His title as such was ‘Worshipful Master.’” “I know Washington was a Mason, smarty pants,” she responded. “And I know what a Worshipful Master is, but they generally don’t become gods.” “In a manner of speaking, Washington did,” I told her, sticking my tongue out at her “smarty pants” crack. “Seeing as most Americans at the time were at least nominally Christian of some sort or another,” she argued, “I don’t see how that’s possible.”

Chapter 4: The Secrets of the Ring (cont’d) “Take it up with the architect of the Capitol then,” I responded sarcastically, “Because that is where he is deified.” “How’s that?” she asked incredulously. “Well, for starters, the ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda was painted into a massive fresco called ‘The Apotheosis of Washington.’ It depicts George Washington dressed in white robes, ascending to the heavens, surrounded by thirteen lovely maidens, representing the thirteen original states. The word ‘Apotheosis’ is Greek for ‘to become a god.’ It’s quite literally a painting of George Washington ascending to godhood.” “In fact,” I continued, “It’s been said that the Rotunda itself was all but a temple to Washington, once complete with a statue of him dressed like Zeus and an eternal flame kept by an elderly woman on Federal pay, a Vestal Virgin, if you will. The flame is gone nowadays, but the statue is still on display at the Smithsonian American History Museum.” “Okay... I don’t know how you know this stuff, but you still haven’t answered my question, why aren’t we going to the Capitol?” she asked, more confused than ever. “Because, the clue says that ‘the shadow of Freedom’ points the way,” I explained. “The morning sun rises in the east, casting a shadow of the capitol which points due west toward the phallic symbol

dedicated to the Worshipful Master.” “Yeah, and the first 555 steps of a journey,” she mused, “so what’s that genius IQ of yours telling you about that?” “The 555 steps represent the 555 feet in height that the phallic symbol in question stands,” I answered, knowing where she would go with it. “A 555 foot phallic symbol?” she exclaimed. “I knew D.C. once had the world’s biggest chair, but what you’re describing has got to be the world’s biggest sex toy.” Leave it to Kittie to always have her mind in the gutter. “No, babe, not the world’s biggest sex toy,” I chuckled, “but the world’s tallest obelisk. The obelisk is an ancient Babylonian and Egyptian symbol of divine masculinity and fertility, a phallic symbol, if you will, of a mojo, more spiritual than physical.” “And you say this obelisk is in D.C.?” she asked. “Yep, you’ve seen it with me a few hundred times or so,” I replied. “Okay, if you say so,” she replied, deep in thought. “Obelisks? Demigod presidents? What’s it all mean?” “It means we’re going to the Washington Monument tomorrow.” (to be continued)

11 33

FICTION

Gayle arrives in LA

Part 3

By Gwynette Smith Vendor Last Time: Gayle is a new lawyer working at the office of Legal Aid in Los Angeles and living at the Loma Y. A recent client, a 14-year-old boy named Sam, barged into her office with a gun he said was used to kill a cop. He left the gun with Gayle... Nothing in Gayle Tyler’s life had prepared her for the problem she was facing. Thankfully, Sam had taken the magazine out of the gun. Gayle didn’t have a clue how to do that, and the weapon would have been very dangerous to handle if it had been loaded. She had made several good friends at the Y, and the fact that Margaret, Kathy, and Peggy were game to go see the Queen Mary gave her a certain amount of relief from her dilemma. In the meantime, she had wrapped the weapon and magazine separately in Kleenex and packed them underneath belongings in her suitcases in the back of her closet. She had thrown away the bag she received the weapon in. Margaret said to her, “When do we all have time available to go to the Queen Mary?” “It will be fun, just like when we took the tour of those movie stars’ houses,” Peggy added. Kathy laughed and said, “Weekend after next is good for me!” Everyone was free for that date and the time was set for 6 p.m. for wine, salad, and hopefully some music. Gayle volunteered to get directions and the prices for the food and wine. Kathy said, “We’ll really dress-up and maybe meet some eligible bachelors!” That increased the interest in going even more, since all the women were presently socially available. At the set time, the women gathered in the lobby. Margaret made them and the taxi wait about five minutes. Gayle had found out that taxis are always around the ship when the cruise is over, and it would not be hard for them to get back home. They split the cost of the cab and then walked gleefully up the gangplank. A man greeted them dressed Navy whites.

Code of Conduct

Sounding Off

Faith in God

Athletes, organizations and even myself all have codes of conduct that should be followed. But what is a code of conduct? A code of conduct is a set of rules outlining the responsibilities of proper practices for an individual, party or organization. Professional athletes are always in the public eye. That’s why it’s important for them to live by a good code of conduct. Some people may look at them as powerful people. Take Michael Jordan for example. Jordan testified in the trial against James Bouler, a convicted drug dealer, in 1992. Jordan was asked why Bouler had a personal check for $57,000 that was signed by Jordan. Jordan first said the check was a business loan before changing his story to say it was to pay for a gambling debt. A short time later the National Basketball Association did an investigation to see if Jordan had violated any league rules. Did he violate the NBA code of conduct? That question was never answered. As I watched him during his college and professional career he was well-respected, not just as an athlete, but also as a person. Jordan earned his respect not just on the basketball court, but also in the community, and he did it through his code of conduct. We, as self-employed contractors, have a code of conduct we must follow. Read page two of this paper. Of the ten rules, #3 and #10 are the most important to me. They speak about respect, racism, prejudices, supporting the mission of Street Sense and the Street Sense community. They are the most important because, if followed, they help show the good character, conduct and dedication of us as people and vendors. All ten are important and needed. But what if we didn’t have a code of conduct in place? That’s almost like saying, “What if there were no rules in sports?” My thought is that my code of conduct not only represents me, but Street Sense as a whole. We should respect the code of conduct at all times, because you never know who is watching. As for myself, I try to show a good code of conduct at all times because it shows the community the person that I am. Having a code of conduct in place is important, because it helps keep things in order and make individuals responsible for their actions. Why write a code of conduct? To convey the importance of the code of conduct and to encourage people to be the best that they can be. Remember your code of conduct, good or bad, can affect others.

Rain, rain, please go away. The Bible says that everytime it rains it is a cleansing. In psychology books, authors claim that everytime it rains people with extreme mental health issues are on watch for suicidal tendency. Sounds pretty scary to me, but as I try to obey God’s rules I shouldn’t worry about the rain. Now that I’ve been in my own apartment for the past four months, I’ve learned how much more expensive everything has gotten during the three years I was living in and out of shelters. I can’t believe detergent has shot up to $6 more than it cost three years ago. I just can’t see myself buying $12 to $13 of soap so I can have clean clothes. I go into Safeway, Whole Foods, Harris Teeter, or Giant and try to buy food on sale. When I buy a sweet onion, I want it to be sweet at the price for $1.99/lb. I think farmers might be picking food too quickly thinking it will ripen and taste good once it reaches the shelves of the supermarket. Or it could be that the heavy storms we’ve had all over the nation are making our food weaker in taste. I don’t really know what it is, but I do know that merchants have heard my and other customers’ complaints about food quality; the price of sweet onions, yellow onions, sweet yams, watermelons ($3.99 ea) should be $1 because they taste like water and the fruit doesn’t taste like the particular fruit it is supposed to be. I have yet to taste a grape the way a grape should taste. But, merchants want to charge $4.99/lb for tasteless grapes. Maybe next year there will be a better crop of fruit and we won’t have so much rain.

I do not understand why people believe in God. To me, God is not real. I think we are what is left from a planet that is dying. I know that people must have faith in something but, why believe in a person who is not real? I tried to believe in a god, but I have been in a mess for 47 years. I thought God was real but I have been in

By E. Thompson-Bey, Vendor

By Aida Basnight-Peery, Vendor

Ken Belkosky, Vendor

a Hell that I cannot get out of since the time I did believe in God. I think we are from a dead planet that came to a dead planet that wanted its people to live. This is what I believe, not what the paper believes. I do not want the readers to write off the paper saying they will not buy the paper because a vender wrote what he felt.

So, I Write.

By Robert Warren, Vendor So, why should I write these words as I always do? Mostly for the love of the Lord and you. I love to write my words for that word called peace, happily you may know before your days go. Oh, I write my words for those I hate, who stand against that which is just. The Lord commands that I stand. Sometimes I write a line to remember back in time. Or I just write to say how beautiful are the Lord’s days. The moon, the stars, the sun, All created by one.  And if I have to write about life and death, there is guilt within myself. But the words always come back to love. And I write to say: Stay in the human race, the Lord’s human race, to see who is best in doing good deeds. So, I write that one may see and know a little bit about me. So, I write.

BEFORE THE RAIN PT 25: COUNT THE DOTS, ‘COS SHIVA AIN’T GOT NOTHING COMING ! By Chris Shaw, “The Cowboy Poet”

Lyndsey Pattison wept, not as profoundly as the Virgin Mary over the Crucifixion, but Lyndsey’s weeping was moving. She had waited the proper amount of time in the Dew Inn, near Houston Truckway, and had managed to whip up some fantastically impressive journalism credentials in order to join the Sports Illustrated cavalcade to New York. The old crone with the turban had mumbled an imprecation against the Akashic records for fast-forwarding a Mister Duda to the New York Mets. Duda’s ascendancy was more than five years off; Shea Stadium hadn’t yet been dynamited to make way for Citi Field. But the Gita and the Akashas were definitely on the money about Loomis—he was already on Houston Street in lower Manhattan. Don Strabonamus, a slightly tipsy sportswriter who wanted to initiate the comely Miss Pattison into the “Mile-High Club,” pointed out ever so graciously that unlike the pitcher street, the New York lo-

cale was pronounced “HOWS-TON” Street! “Oh-ho-ho,” Lyndsey sighed, “thanks for that, Mister Strabonious.” She then drank part of a Pink Lady, muttered, “I have reserved all of my heart for Loomis Reader,” and, after some sudden turbulence and a drop of thirty-or-so feet of altitude, passed out until the abrupt arrival at JFK. Meanwhile, or as Chuck Berry likes to say meanWHILE, Loomis was dithering over Ovetta Rheems, who was laying before him. Earlier, the two alleged lovebirds were seen browsing the display windows further uptown on Fifth Avenue, of Tiffany’s and Harry Winston’s. They headed for Mott Street because Ovetta and Chang, her impassive chauffeur, had a hankering for some opium and wontons. As Loomis put it so eloquently, “Who am I to stand in your way?” Problem was, overcome by the ambient poppy fumes in the doss house, Loomis began to re-evaluate. Maybe this wasn’t the best setting for his rediscovery of self. And,

he was missing Lyndsey’s unvarnished niceness. Luckily for him, it appeared the Chinatown narks were about to pounce. A quick flash-glance from Chang and the party of three were out a side exit and down a rusty fire escape into the waiting black SUV, a Cadillac Escalade they’d now ‘escalated’ to. Off they fled to Kelly Joe’s on Houston near Delancey, a true ‘hole’ which was so prized by the hip NEW YORKER crowd, especially due to their lack of a house phone. Ovetta was flying high in her spindizzy coif, and produced from her decolletage a bona fide $1000 bill—a real Grover Cleveland, for goodness’ sakes. Even as they spoke, Ovetta’s clique was fully unaware of a knot of boisterous sports scribes, crashing thru the swingin’ doors of Kelly Joe’s on Houston, led by a flushed-cheeked lass in lavender evening wear--none other than the mother hen social worker, Miss Lyndsey Pattison. (to be continued)

Coalition for Nonprofit Housing and Economic Development By Reginald Black Vendor, “Da’ Street Reportin’ Artist” At a June 15 training session, Coalition for Nonprofit Housing and Economic Development (CNHED) taught newcomers like myself how to advocate for affordable housing for ourselves and others. CNHED works to promote programs that provide affordable housing, help low-income individuals rent apartments for the first time and hold onto their places during difficult times. At the session, CNHED leaders explained the importance of good planning and organizational skills. They explained how and why CNHED supports and creates advocacy events. From the timeline that the instructors displayed, it was plain to see how some of these tactics can be used effectively. Then participants were treated to a discussion and video on how to testify at public events. It was explained that an audience connects more with some-

Academy of Hope: 269-6623 601 Edgewood St, NE aohdc.org

COMMUNITY SERVICES

one who is speaking from personal experience than when hearing from someone talking about generalized points. The video showed different people speaking and did a good job of illustrating how effective each testimony was. The video was a great tool for showing us new advocates how to craft our testimony to reach a wider audience. The video also emphasized the importance of making testimony powerful enough to change a lawmaker’s mind. With this training, I hope I can be a more effective advocate for the homeless.

Community of Hope: 232-7356 communityofhopedc.org

STREET SENSE July 3 - 16, 2013

Housing/Shelter

Clothing

Outreach

Transportation

Education

Legal Assistance

Food

Showers

Medical/Healthcare

Laundry

Employment Assistance DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS HOTLINE 1-888-7WE HELP (1-888-793-4357)

SHELTER HOTLINE: 1–800–535–7252

PHOTO BY REGINALD BLACK

Martha’s Table: 328-6608 2114 14th St, NW marthastable.org

Thrive DC: 737-9311 1525 Newton St, NW thrivedc.org

Covenant House Washington: 610-9600 2001 Mississippi Avenue, SE covenanthousedc.org

Miriam’s Kitchen: 452-8926 2401 Virginia Ave, NW miriamskitchen.org

Unity Health Care: 745-4300 3020 14th St, NW unityhealthcare.org

Calvary Women’s Services: 678-2341 1217 Good Hope Road, SE calvaryservices.org

D.C. Coalition for the Homeless: 347-8870 1234 Massachusetts Ave, NW dccfh.org

My Sister’s Place: 529-5991 (24-hour hotline) mysistersplacedc.org

The Welcome Table: 347-2635 1317 G St, NW epiphanydc.org/thewelcometable

Catholic Charities: 772-4300 catholiccharitiesdc.org/gethelp

Father McKenna Center: 842-1112 19 Eye St, NW fathermckennacenter.org

N Street Village: 939-2060 1333 N Street, NW nstreetvillage.org

Whitman-Walker Health 1701 14th St, NW | 745-7000 2301 MLK Jr. Ave, SE | 797-3567 whitman-walker.org

Bread for the City: 265-2400 (NW) | 561-8587 (SE) 1525 7th St, NW | 1640 Good Hope Rd, SE breadforthecity.org

Central Union Mission 745-7118 1350 R Street, NW missiondc.org

Charlie’s Place: 232-3066 1830 Connecticut Ave, NW charliesplacedc.org Christ House: 328-1100 1717 Columbia Rd, NW christhouse.org Church of the Pilgrims: 387-6612 2201 P St, NW churchofthepilgrims.org/outreach food (1 - 1:30 on Sundays only)

Community Council for the Homeless at Friendship Place: 364-1419 4713 Wisconsin Ave, NW cchfp.org Community Family Life Services: 347-0511 305 E St, NW cflsdc.org

Food and Friends: 269-2277 219 Riggs Rd, NE foodandfriends.org (home delivery for those suffering from HIV, cancer, etc)

Foundry Methodist Church: 332-4010 1500 16th St, NW foundryumc.org/ministry-opportunities ID (FRIDAY 9-12 ONLY)

Georgetown Ministry Center: 338-8301 1041 Wisconsin Ave, NW georgetownministrycenter.org Gospel Rescue Ministries: 842-1731 810 5th St, NW grm.org

Jobs Have Priority: 544-9128 425 Snd St, NW jobshavepriority.org John Young Center: 639-8569 119 D Street, NW

New York Ave Shelter: 832-2359 1355-57 New York Ave, NE Open Door Shelter: 639-8093 425 2nd St, NW newhopeministriesdc.org/id3.html

Rachel’s Women’s Center: 682-1005 1222 11th St, NW rachaels.org

Samaritan Inns: 667-8831 2523 14th St, NW samaritaninns.org Sasha Bruce Youthwork: 675-9340 741 8th St, SE sashabruce.org

Subscribe to Street Sense 1 Year: $40 2 Years: $80 3 Years: $120 I want half of my purchase to benefit a vendor directly Vendor Name Vendor Badge # Name

So Others Might Eat (SOME) 797-8806 71 O St, NW some.org

Address Phone

The Fourth of July By Veda Simpson, Vendor

The Fourth of July, Fireworks bursting in the sky. Look at all the wars where we have been. Not one of our foes has been our friend. If President Obama had been there from the start Maybe things could have been talked out Instead of being torn apart. We are the land of the free and the brave— Why is it lives can’t be saved? So as I see the Fourth of July fireworks Bursting in the sky Every year it looks so beautiful, I cannot lie.

Summer

By Sybil Taylor, Vendor

Summer brings 100 percent great weather, and time to cool off with drinks, ice cream, air conditioners, and being in the shade or in the swimming pool. Summer brings joy, great sunshine, beautiful moonlight at night, BBQing food, swimming, taking walks, enjoying the morning breeze as well as the evening breeze. Birds singing so joyfully, butterflies flying so beautifully in the air, all insects, grass so green, flowers so beautifully sweet smelling, enjoying a trip to the beach, the sand, as well as the water with starfish. Going down to the wharf to buy crabs, so fresh and nice off the shore, as well as shrimp, enjoying the season of relaxation. School is out for the kids; they enjoy a wonderful, hot summer until school opens in the fall. Everyone have a great summer enjoying ice cream, sodas, food or just relaxing. Have a happy summer with your sunshades.

Fourth of July Poetry By Samuel Fullwood, Vendor

We the people – of this earth must begin to see each other as one nation, undivided, with liberty and freedom. We the people – must come together and respect the laws placed upon us. The earth is to be respected and it is meant for all. We the people – must stop destroying each other for heritage differences, for we all come from the same seed long ago. We the people – must strive to exist for centuries to come, all being equally treated and sharing our planet’s resources. We the people – must understand that each has a path to travel assuring the freedom in our time here to complete our chosen goals. We the people – shouldn’t be divided by nations. We must proclaim ourselves one nation. We the people – must stand side by side not placing ourselves above each other. We the people – must understand that life is sacred. We the people – united we stand – divided we fall.

July 3 - 16, 2013 • Volume 10 • Issue 17

Street Sense 1317 G Street, NW

Nonprofit Org US Postage Paid Washington, DC

Washington, DC 20005

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COLLAGE BY SYBIL TAYLOR

The Joy of Independence Day By Jacqueline Turner, Vendor

Coming from the South, I can say the Fourth of July was really celebrated. A couple days before and a couple of days after you can hear firecrackers and gunshots through the night. It’s supposed to celebrate the independence of the American colonies from England. To me, all should be happy to participate, because this means freedom of religion and inalienable rights, why the democracy was born. Nothing like it exists in other parts of the world. Had it not been for people willing to fight, we might still be living under a dictatorship. So, when the Fourth of July comes around, please remember the reason for it and celebrate your freedom.

Independence

By Jacqueline Turner, Vendor I. is for the Idealism it took to form this nation. N. is for the Nation that arose. D. is for the Determination to build a strong nation. E. is for Every person’s rights and freedom. P. is for the Peace and Persistence needed to keep a democracy. E. is for the self-Evidence that all men are created equal. N. is for the Need for self-government of the colonies. D. is for the many that Died for those rights. E. is for the Endless cry for liberty. N. is for the Natural desire to live independently. C. is for the Character it built. E. is for the Ever-lasting nation. INDEPENDENCE.

Independence Day Remember, buy only from

badged vendors and do not give to those panhandling with one paper. Interested in a subscription? Go to page 15 for more information.

By Evelyn Nnam, Vendor

Fireworks, cookouts, and time spent with friends; swimming and playing, the good times never end—but lest we forget the reason for today. Let’s all say it now, Happy Independence Day. Today is a time for fireworks and fun, but we shouldn’t forget the reason for the celebration. This is one of the most important days of the entire summer season. Today’s the day our nation became free, the date of the country’s birth. For so many years we have grown to be one of the best countries on Earth. Today we celebrate freedom thanks to those who came before. Those brave soldiers who fought and died in each and every war. Freedom always comes at a price, and while we celebrate we should tip our hats to the heroes who made our country great.