East of the River Magazine July 2014

JULY 2014

EAST of the RIVER MAGAZINE

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

CALENDAR

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

JULY HEALTH SPECIAL 17......... East of the River Health, A Personal Passion

by Yvette Alexander

18......... Community of Hope Provides Next Door Health Care

by Candace Y. A. Montague

24......... Neighborhood Medicine • by Candace Y. A. Montague 26......... The Silent Epidemic: Hepatitis C • by Candace Y. A. Montague

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 28......... The Numbers • by Wes Rivers 30......... The Bulletin Board 36......... Demolition by Neglect • by John Muller 38......... Solving Hunger East of the River

by Candace Y. A. Montague

40......... Introducing Students to App Development

by Charnice A. Milton

42......... Pathways to Empowerment • by Charnice A. Milton

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

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44

44......... In Your Kitchen • by Twyla Alston 46......... Mayor for Life: The Incredible Story of Marion Barry, Jr. • by John Muller 48......... Love and Baseball • by Stephen Lilienthal 49......... True Colors • by Stephen Lilienthal 50......... Anacostia Community Museum Holds a Summer Soirée • by Charnice A. Milton 52......... Jazz Avenues • by Steve Monroe 54......... EOR 2014 Pet Contest: Capital Cats & Hill Hounds

REAL ESTATE

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

KIDS & FAMILY

56......... Kids & Family Notebook • by Kathleen Donner 62......... Simon Elementary Students Win Essay Contests

by Charnice A. Milton

THE CLASSIFIEDS 64......... The Classifieds

CROSSWORD 66 ........ The Crossword

ON THE COVER:

The Anacostia Watershed Society is hosting free Paddle Nights on the beautiful Anacostia River. No experience necessary.

Go to their website at www.anacostiaws.org for dates, times and details. For more information, email pryberg@anacostiaws.org or call 301-699-6204 ext. 112. Photo: James Havard.

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

Publisher: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2013 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

Look for Next Issue of East of the River on August 9 Online Daily, Printed Monthly | www.eastoftheriverdcnews.com

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

BEAUTY, Health­­& Fitness Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW • www.quietwaterscenter.com quiet_waters_center@yahoo.com Mariessa Terrell • mterrell@sbclawgroup.com Candace Y.A. Montague • writeoncm@gmail.com Jazelle Hunt • jazelle.hunt@gmail.com KIDS & FAMILY Kathleen Donner • kathleendonner@gmail.com Susan Johnson • schools@hillrag.com Society & Events Mickey Thompson • socialsightings@aol.com Homes & Gardens Rindy O’Brien • rindyob@mac.com Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Judith Capen • judith.capen@architravepc.com HomeStyle: Mark Johnson • mark@hillrag.com Catherine Plume • caplume@yahoo.com COMMENTARY Ethelbert Miller • emiller698@aol.com The Nose • thenose@hillrag.com Production/Graphic/web Design Art Director: Jason Yen • jay@hillrag.com Graphic Designer: Kyungmin Lee • lee@hillrag.com Web Master: Andrew Lightman • andrew@hillrag.com Advertising & Sales Account Executive: Kira Means, 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com Account Executive: Dave Kletzkin, 202.543.8300 X22 • dave@hillrag.com Classified Advertising: Maria Carolina Lopez, 202.543.8300 X12 • carolina@hillrag.com Billing: Sara Walder, 202.400.3511 • Sara@hillrag.com Distribution Distribution Manager: Andrew Lightman Distributors: MediaPoint, LLC Distribution Information: distribution@hillrag.com Deadlines & CONTACTS Advertising: sales@hillrag.com Display Ads: 15th of each month Classified Ads: 10th of each month Editorial: 15th of each month; submissions@hillrag.com Bulletin Board & Calendar: 15th of each month; calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

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

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Fort Dupont Summer Concerts

There are four concerts at Fort Dupont this summer.

They are on Saturday evenings (rain or shine, except in the case of lightening), July 19 and 26 and Aug. 2 and 9, 7-9 p.m. It’s lawn seating so you should bring along a blanket or folding chair and, definitely, bug spray. The park opens at 4 p.m. so you can arrive early for a picnic. Fort Dupont Park and the surrounding Civil War Defenses of Washington sites along the Hiker/Biker Trail consist of over 400 acres of mature wooded forest, 10 miles of unpaved and paved trails, an Activity Center, and a concert stage.

The main driving entrances to the park are Fort Davis Drive and Ridge Road; Fort Davis Drive and Massachusetts Avenue; and Randle Circle and Fort Dupont Drive. Watch for signs. nps.gov/fodu Photo: The Jazz Ambassadors appear on Aug. 9 and will play old-school R&B.

American Beer Classic at RFK

On Saturday, July 12, noon-4 p.m. or 6-10 p.m., inside RFK Stadium, beer enthusiasts and festival-goers alike will come together with one commonality: to celebrate good beer at the American Beer Classic. Along with a wide variety of breweries and hundreds of beers, participants will not only discover and taste-test new beers, but also attend educational sessions, enjoy live music, and have the opportunity to purchase food and merchandise. Registration fees begin at $50. For those attending as a designated driver, there is a discounted registration fee as well as a lounge with alcohol-free beverage options. For more information and to register, visit AmericanBeerClassic.com.

Photo: Courtesy of American Beer Classic

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Smithsonian at 8: A Garden of Wonders

A Garden of Wonders, Friday night, July 18, 8-11 p.m., is the Smithsonian’s premier 21+ after-hours event series--a unique mix of culture, art, history, and science, including music, a cash bar, and special access to Smithsonian exhibits, collections, and experts. Find your style inspiration in period garden-party attire or your favorite Alice in Wonderland character. You might not meet a white rabbit, but you can sip specialty cocktails designed by Arlington’s Tortoise & Hare as you wander through the lantern-decked grounds. And speaking of wonders, meet Todd McGrain, whose fantastic large-scale bird sculptures now anchor the corners of the Haupt Garden’s ornately planted lawn. This party is at the Enid A. Haupt Garden at the Smithsonian Castle on Independence Ave. SW. Must be 21. General Admission $15 in advance, $20 at the door, if available. For tickets and further information, call 202-633-3030 or visit SMITHSONIANat8.com.

Photo: Katie Warren, GoKateShoot

Confident City Cycling Classes

The Washington Area Bicyclist Association offers an array a Bicyclist Education classes. We recommend taking Confident City Cycling Classes if you intend to spend any time in DC traffic. Participants of all levels are encouraged to attend these 3-hour classes which will have options for multiple skill levels ranging from simple bike handling skills and using trails, to learning avoidance maneuvers and riding with traffic.

The “Trails” group will discover basic bicycling information and on-bike skills such as: bicycle selection, fit, inspection, gearing, cadence, clothing, accessories, bike handling basics like starting and stopping, riding straight, scanning and signaling. The “Traffic” group will explore vehicular cycling principles, roadway positioning, lane changes, turns and parking lot drills to learn avoidance maneuvers. Find a convenient class at waba.org/education/adult. They’re usually free.

Photo: Courtesy of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association

Capital Fringe Festival

The Capital Fringe Festival’s mission is to “connect exploratory artists with adventurous audiences by creating outlets and spaces for creative, cutting-edge, and contemporary performance in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area.” This they do brilliantly. It is an open, honest, affordable and accessible plunge into the world of art. The volunteers have as much fun and the audiences and the audiences are always challenged, entertained, broadened, shocked and/or changed somehow.

The festival venues on Capitol Hill are The Fridge and the Atlas Performing Arts Center. See Fringe offerings at capitalfringe.org and peppered throughout our Hill Rag Calendar section.

“13 Men” plays at the Atlas Performing Arts Center Lab II, July 11, 13, 22, 26 and 27. Photo: Courtesy of Capital Fringe

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CALENDAR July 10, Balls of Fury; July 17, Space Jam; July 24, Invincible; July 31, Bend it Like Beckham; Aug 7, Rudy; Aug 14, A League of Their Own; Aug 21, The Blind Side; and Sept 4, Moneyball.

Movies shown in northern block of Canal Park, 2nd and “Eye” Sts. SE. yardspark.org

Military Band Concerts at the US Capitol

Weekdays in summer (weather permitting). 8:00 PM. Mondays, US Navy Band; Tuesdays, US Air Force Band; Wednesdays and Thursdays, US Marine Band; Fridays, US Army Band. Free. West Terrace US Capitol Building.

The Sounds of Summer Concert Series at the Botanic Garden. July 10 and 24; 5:007:00 PM. Evenings in the National Garden are a delight. Come experience the wonder of the USBG’s outdoor garden. Concert is held outdoors. No chairs will be provided. The indoor gardens and related facilities (restrooms) will not be available for use. They suggest bringing chairs/blankets for sitting, sunscreen, protective clothing and water. The concert will be canceled if it rains. usbg.gov Navy Band “Concerts on the Avenue.” Tuesdays, 7:30 PM. US Navy Memorial. The United States Navy Band and its specialty groups will perform. Free. 7th and Penn. Ave. NW. 202737-2300. navymemorial.org Lunchtime Music on the Mall. Tuesdays and Thursdays in summer, noon-1:30 PM. Music performed on the National Mall by the Smithsonian Metro Station, at 12th St. and Jefferson Dr. SW.

Navy Band performs on Mondays. Photo: Kathleen Donner

SPECIAL EVENTS Smithsonian Folklife Festival. July 5-6.

11:00 AM-5:30 PM. Evening events at 6:00 PM. Festival features programs on China: Tradition and the Art of Living and Kenya: Mambo Poa! Free entrance. National Mall between 7th and 14th sts. folklife.si.edu/center/festival Marine Barracks Evening Parade. Friday evenings through Aug 29 (no parade July 4).

Guests admitted starting at 7:00 PM. Guests should be seated by 8:00 PM. Program begins at 8:45 PM. The Evening Parade has become a universal symbol of the professionalism, discipline and Esprit de Corps of the United States Marines. The ceremony begins with a concert by the United States Marine Band. Free. It is wise to have reservations that can be made online at mbw.usmc.mil. Marine Barracks (front gate), 8th and I sts. SE. 202-433-4073.

2014 Twilight Tattoo at Fort Myer. Wednesdays (except July 2), through Aug 20 , 7:00 PM with pre-ceremony pageantry starting at 6:45 PM. Members of the 3rd US Infantry (The Old Guard), the US Army Band “Pershings Own,” Fife and Drum Corps and the US Army Drill Team will perform an hour-long sunset military Pageant. Over 100 Old Guard soldiers dressed in period uniforms will pro-

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vide a glimpse of Army history from colonial times to the soldier of the future. Summerall Field on historic Fort Myer in Arlington, VA. twilight.mdw.army.mil

otic birthday cake, food vendors and a dazzling fireworks display. Oronoco Bay Park. 100 Madison St., Alexandria, VA. 703-746-4343. visitalexandriava.com

Truckeroo. July 11, Aug 8 and Sept 12; 11:00 AM-11:00 PM at the corner of Half St.and M St. SE. Over 20 food trucks, live music all day, shade and picnic tables and games. truckeroodc.com

OUTDOOR SUMMER MUSIC AND MOVIES

Fort Stevens Day. July 12-13. Fort Stevens is commemorating the 150th anniversary of the battle to defend the nation’s capital, including a featured ceremony from 10:00 AM-noon on Saturday, July 12. Come learn more about the only Civil War battle to take place in the nation’s capital with living history demonstrations, live period music, historic talks and walks, book signings as well as 19th century children’s game and crafts. Parking is limited and Metro is a good alternative to driving.

Visit nps.gov/cwdw/150th-anniversary-ofcivil-war.htm for more information and a schedule of events.

USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration. July 12, 7:30-10:00 PM. Visitors celebrate America’s birthday along the Potomac waterfront at Oronoco Bay Park and enjoy live music by the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra, patri-

NoMa Summer Screen. Wednesdays through Aug 20. Movies start at dark and are screened with subtitles. July 2, Clueless; July 9, The Muppets; July 16, The Perks of Being a Wallflower; July 23, The Dark Knight; July 30, Pitch Perfect; Aug 6, Top Gun; Aug 13, The Sandlot; Aug 20, rain date movie. Movies shown at the field at 2nd and L Sts. NE. Coolers, children and friendly (leashed) dogs are welcome. nomasummerscreen.org Military Band Concerts at the US Capitol.

Weekdays in summer (weather permitting).

8:00 PM. Mondays, US Navy Band; Tuesdays, US Air Force Band; Wednesdays and Thursdays, US Marine Band; Fridays, US Army Band. Free.

West Terrace US Capitol Building.

Canal Park Outdoor Film Series. Thursday nights (movies begin at sundown-around 8:45 PM). 2014 theme is “It’s a Whole New Ballgame,” and includes sports-related movies of all kinds.

Jazz in the Sculpture Garden. Fridays, through Aug 29 (rain or shine, except July 4), 5:00-8:00 PM. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Live jazz performed by an eclectic mix of top artists from the Washington area entertains visitors outdoors in front of the fountain or in the Pavilion Cafe (if it’s raining). The Pavilion Cafe features a seasonal tapas-style menu and bar service during the concerts. Everyone can enjoy these concerts.

You do not have to order food or drinks. Free.

202- 289-3360. nga.gov Air Force Band Concerts. Fridays in July and Aug. 8:00 PM. Air Force Memorial at One Air Force Memorial Drive in Arlington, VA. (14th St. Bridge into Virginia, merge onto Washington Blvd. and then Columbia Pike in the direction of the Navy Annex. Then follow signs.)

Expect a pleasing mix of contemporary and patriotic tunes and spectacular views of the nighttime Washington, DC skyline. Free. airforcememorial.org Friday Night Live at National Harbor. Fridays (except July 4) through Sept 19, 6:00-9:00 PM. Performances include local and nationally-touring bands playing a variety of genres: pop, rock, soul, funk, blues, country and jazz. nationalharbor.com Rock and Roll Hotel Rooftop Movies. Sundays, 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Join them on their rooftop deck for Sunday night movies shown on their massive projection screen! Hhappy hour specials all throughout the night, including on our frozen drinks and wings. The rooftop deck has plenty of seating available, but feel free to bring a beach chair and settle in. Free popcorn. rockandrollhoteldc.com Free Summer Outdoor Concerts at Strathmore. Wednesdays, through Aug 20, 7:00 PM. Parking is in the Metro garage for $5 with Metro SmarTrip card or major credit card; enter off Tuckerman Lane. Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD. strathmore.org

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CALENDAR Home #4 by Malik M. Lloyd. Image: Courtesy of Honfleur Gallery

Pay What You Can previews: July 23-27. General admission, $20; students with ID, $10. anacostiaplayhouse.com Tattoo Design and Symbolism. July 25, 2:004:00 PM. Artist and educator Jay Coleman talks about the art of tattoo within a cultural context and then leads a drawing workshop in designing the perfect tattoo inspired by South African symbolism and tribal designs.

All materials are provided. Call 202-633-4844 to register. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu Home Sewn: Quilts from the Lower Mississippi Valley. Through Sept 21, 2014. The first in a series of collections-focused exhibitions, Home Sewn features quilts created by Annie Dennis (1904–1997) and Emma Russell (1909– 2004). Quilts represent classic American quilt patterns and techniques passed down through five generations. This exhibition examine the generational, social, and economic fabric of an African American quilting community in rural Mississippi. In addition, fieldwork and interviews with present-day African American women quilters give voice to the continuing tradition of quilting in these communities.

Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

Honfleur Gallery and Vivid Solutions Gallery Annual East of the River Exhibition Opens Friday, July 11, 6:00-9:00 PM. The East of the River Exhibition at Honfleur Gallery includes work by 9 artists who live, work, or have roots in the communities east of the Anacostia River. The Invisible Wall: Photographs from East of the River at Vivid Solutions Gallery presents selections from photographer Susana Raab’s ongoing project to capture the daily humanity of these same communities. Both exhibitions run through Aug 29. Honfleur Gallery, 1241 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-365-8392. honfleurgallery.com BlackRock Free Summer Concert Series.

June 29-July 26, 7:00 PM. The lineup includes The Crawdaddies, The US Navy Band: The Commodores, The Nighthawks, Chopteeth, and Tom Principato. Reservations are not required, but BlackRock encourages patrons to check blackrockcenter.org. Concerts are at BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Dr., Germantown, MD.

Anacostia Watershed Society Paddle Nights.

July 10, 15 and 29, Aug 28 and Sept 18. Canoes and kayaks will be available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis from 5:00-7:30 PM for anyone who wants to paddle, and AWS staff will be available to assist participants on the river. Register at anacostiaws.org/calendar.

Meet at Ballpark Boathouse in Diamond Teague Park, located at Potomac Ave. SE.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Art Workshop: Bedazzling Beads. July 15, 10:30 AM-1:30 PM. Artist Deidra Bell leads this workshop where participants can make personal beadware for all occasions. This workshop is designed for ages 18+. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

Nature Walks at Kenilworth Park. July 5, 13, 26; and Aug. 2 and 3; at 11:00 AM. Join a Park Ranger and explore the ponds, marsh, and woodlands. What will you see on the nature walk? Beautiful butterflies on the summer flowers? Slithering snakes and jumping frogs around the ponds? Animal tracks and chewed tree bark, could that be the beaver?

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is at 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. The park has ample free, off-street parking and is metro accessible (Deanwood). nps.gov/keaq Da’Originalz featuring “Beet Ya Feets”. July 6, 13 and 27, 1:00-3:00 PM. Hip Hop dancers Da’Originalz guide participants in creating their own form of self-expression through original dance movements. Join in this fun workshop, demonstration, and group practice session. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

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George Washington Carver Trail Tour. July 16, 10:30 AM-noon. Join an environmentalist for a walk through an urban forest. Learn how to read the story of the land which nature tells.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes. Call 202633-4844 to register. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu Kenilworth Park Water Lily & Lotus Cultural Festival. July 19, 9:00 AM-3:00 PM. 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. The park has ample free, off-street parking and is metro accessible (Deanwood). friendsofkenilworthgardens.org The Legend of Cool Disco Dan. July 19, 2:004:00 PM. This intriguing documentary profiles

the enigmatic D.C graffiti artist known by his infamous tag “Disco Dan” through a colorful pastiche of interviews with neighborhood crews, Go-Go graffiti, and a Go-Go music soundtrack. Film is narrated by noted rock artist Henry Rollins. Join them for the screening and a post-discussion with the film’s Executive Producer and graffitti historian Roger Gastman, Director Joseph Pattisall and cast (including perhaps Disco Dan himself). Call 202-633-4844 to register. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu The Long Walk of Nelson Mandela. July 202:00-4:00 PM. In recognition of the birthday of Nelson Mandela, the museum is screening this insightful PBS documentary which tells the story of the man behind the myth, probing Mandela’s character, leadership, and life’s method through intimate recollections with friends, political allies, adversaries, and his fellow prisoners and jailers on Robben Island where Mandela spent 18 of his 27-year prison sentence. Discussion with a museum educator follows the film. Call 202-633-4844 to register. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu “The Campsite Rule” at the Anacostia Playhouse. Jule 23-Aug 16. Inspired by the famous relationship rule of thumb coined by sex columnist Dan Savage, The Campsite Rule charts the course of career woman Susan and college freshman Lincoln’s unlikely romance.

Tour the Frederick Douglass House. Tours are at 9:00 AM, 12:15 PM, 1:15 PM, 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM. Ranger led tours are the only way to see the inside of the Frederick Douglass house. Tours are ticketed, and there are a limited number of tickets available for each tour.

Tour tickets are available by reservation or on a first-come, first-served walk-in basis. Visitors are strongly encouraged to make a reservation to guarantee their place on the tour.

Tours last approximately 30 minutes. 1411 W St. SE. 202-426-5960. nps.gov/frdo

SPORTS AND FITNESS Washington Nationals Baseball. July 5, 6, 7, 8, 18, 19, 20 and 31. at Nat’s Park. Tickets, $5, up. washington.nationals.mlb.com Washington Mystics Basketball. July 23, 25 and 27. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. wnba. com/mystics DC United at RFK. July 20, 8:00 PM vs. Chivas USA; July 26, time TBD, vs. Fulham FC; July 30, 7:00 PM vs. Toronto FC. RFK Stadium. dcunited.com Free outdoor public pools in Wards 7 and 8.

Anacostia Pool. 1800 Anacostia Dr. SE. 202724-1441. Barry Farms Pool. 1230 Sumner Rd. SE 202-645-5040. Benning Park Pool. Southern Ave. and Fable St.SE. 202-645-5044. Douglass Pool. Frederick Douglass Ct. and Stanton Ter. SE. 202-645-5045. Fort Dupont Pool.

Ridge Rd. and Burns St. SE. 202-645-5046.

Fort Stanton Pool. 1800 Erie St. SE. 202-6781798. Kelly Miller Pool. 4900 Brooks St. NE. 202-724-5056. Oxon Run Pool. Fourth St. and Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-645-5042. dpr.dc.gov Deanwood (indoor) Pool. Mon-Fri 6:30 AM8:00 PM; Sat-Sun, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Free for DC residents. 1350 49th St. NE. 202-6713078. dpr.dc.gov Ferebee Hope (indoor) Pool. Open weekdays, 10:00-6:00 PM. Closed weekends. Free for DC

residents. 3999 Eighth St. SE. 202-6453916. dpr.dc.gov Free public tennis courts in Wards 7 and 8. Fort Davis Community Center, 1400 41st St. SE; Hillcrest Recreation Center, 3100 Denver St. SE; Kenilworth-Parkside Recreation Center, 4300 Anacostia Ave. NE; Randle Highlands Tennis Courts, 31st St. and Pennsylvania Ave. SE; Anacostia Park, 1900 Anacostia Dr. SE; Bald Eagle Recreation Center, Martin Luther King, Jr Ave. and Joliet St. SW; Congress Heights Recreation Center, Alabama Ave. and Randle Pl.SE; Fort Stanton Community Center, 1812 Erie St. SE. All courts are open daily, dawn to dusk. Some are lighted for extended evening play. Courts are available on a first-come, first-served basis for one-hour intervals; extended use of tennis courts requires a permit.

Proper shoes and attire is required.

202-671-0314. dpr.dc.gov Roller Skating at Anacostia Park.

Skate weekdays in summer, 11:00 AM5:45 PM and weekends, 11:00 AM-6:45 PM. This is a covered, outdoor skating pavilion. Free. One-hour free skate “rental” has started but sizes and supplies are limited. Go east on Penn.

Ave. across Anacostia River and make the first right turn onto Fairlawn Ave. and another right onto Nicholson and then into the park. 202-472-3873. nps.gov/anac Yoga @ the Library. Every Saturday, 10:00 AM. Wear some comfortable clothing and bring a mat, but if you don’t have one, yoga mats are available for use during the class. The classes are taught by Yoga Activist and are held on the lower level of the library in the Larger Meeting Room. This class is free and open to the public. Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. 202-281-2583. dclibrary.org/benning TWB Adult Ballet Class at THEARC. Mondays, through Aug 28, 7:00-8:15 PM. This beginning-level adult ballet class introduces participants to basic barre work, simple stretches, and center exercises, all in a fun, engaging, and relaxed atmosphere. Get in touch with your inner grace and elegance as you explore the fundamentals of this classical dance form. Drop-in rates are $12. If you are a resident of 20020 or 20032 (with Valid ID), THEARC employee, or TWB@THEARC parent, drop-in rates are $6. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org TWB Zumba Class at THEARC. Tuesdays, through Aug 26, 6:30:7:30 PM. Ditch the workout, join the party!! Latin Dance-Fitness fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy to follow moves to create a dynamic fitness program that will blow you away. Drop-in rates are $12. If you are a resident of 20020 or 20032 (with Valid ID), THEARC employee, or TWB@THEARC parent, drop-in rates are $6. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org

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EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 13

CALENDAR

Visitors enjoying the music at Fort Dupont.

Photo: Courtesy of the National Park Service

Fort Dupont Summer Concerts Saturdays, July 19-Aug 9, 7:00-9:00 PM (new time), park opens at 4:00 PM. The lineup TBA. Lawn seating. The main driving entrances to the park are Fort Davis Drive and Ridge Road; Fort Davis Drive and Massachusetts Avenue; and Randle Circle and Fort Dupont Drive. nps.gov/fodu TBW Pilates/Stretch Class at THEARC. Wednesdays, through Aug 27, 7:00-8:15 PM. This class will focus on stretching and strengthening the entire body from the inside out. Drop-in rates are $12.

If you are a resident of 20020 or 20032 (with Valid ID), THEARC employee, or TWB@THEARC parent, drop-in rates are $6. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org TWB Yoga Class at THEARC. Thursdays, through Aug 28, 7:00-8:30 PM. Vinyasa Yoga is a practice where postures or asanas are connected through the breath for a transformative and balancing effect. It builds heat, endurance, flexibility, strength. Drop-in rates are $12.

If you are a resident of 20020 or 20032 (with Valid ID), THEARC employee, or TWB@THEARC parent, drop-in rates are $6. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. thearcdc.org Ranger Fit Challenge at Anacostia Park.

Thursdays, 6:00-7:00 PM at the Anacostia Park-Skating Pavilion. Challenge fitness course along the river trail with Rangers available to advise, encourage and promote healthy lifestyles. Free. For all ages. 202472-3884.

Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Third Wednesday of each month at noon. This run is free and informal. West Potomac Park (meet on Ohio Dr. at West Basin Dr., near the Tourmobile stand). 703-505-3567. dcroadrunners.org Woodrow Wilson Bridge Half Marathon.

Oct 5. Registration now open. 703-5874321. wilsonbridgehalf.com Marine Corps Marathon Registration.

Register online at marinemarathon.com.

Marathon is Sunday, Oct 26.

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MARKETS AND SALES Aya Community Markets @ Minnesota Avenue. Thursdays, through Nov 20, 3:007:00 PM at 3924 Minnesota Ave. NE in the parking lot of Unity Health Care. dreamingoutloud.net Ward 8 Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM. The market is at THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. ward8farmersmarket.com Mid-Week Market Stand at THEARC. Tuesdays, through Oct 28, 4:00-7:00 PM. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. dcgreens.org Anacostia Big Chair Flea Market. Saturdays, 10:00 AM-4:00 PM. The market features a diverse mix of art, crafts, imports, antiques, collectibles and furniture. The market will also feature local specialty food items such as fruits and vegetables, flowers, preserves, prepared foods and beverages. 2215 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. bigchairmarket.com Riverside Farm Market. Every other Saturday (July 5 and 19), 10:00 AM-1:00 PM. Riverside Center, 5200 Foote St. NE. The Route 1 Farmers Market & Bazaar.

Saturdays, 8:00 AM-2:00 PM and every first Friday, 4:00 PM-8:00 PM. June 6-Sept 27.

Located in the Prince George’s County Gateway Arts District at 4100 Rhode Island Ave. in Brentwood, MD. U Street Flea. Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. The U Street Flea features a diverse mix of art, crafts, fashion, jewelry, imports, antiques, collectibles, furniture, and more. The market is in the parking lot, next to Nellie’s Sports Bar (three blocks east of U Street Metro), at 912 U St. NW. ustreetflea.com

Clarendon Night Market. Alternate Saturdays, May 17-Oct 25, 3:00-9:00 PM. It features a diverse mix of art, crafts, fashion, jewelry, imports, antiques, collectibles, furniture, and more. Bistro lights will be strung among the tents creating a festive evening shopping bazaar. It is in the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot, 3140 N. Washington Blvd. at the intersection of Washington, Wilson and Clarendon Blvds in North Arlington, VA. ClarendonMarket.com RFK Stadium Farmers’ Market. Open Saturdays, year round (weather permitting), 8:00 AM-3:00 PM. The market also has merchandise vendors. It can be seen in the RFK parking lot from the interestion of Benning Rd. and Oklahoma Ave. NE. Branch Avenue Pawn Parking Lot Flea Market. Saturdays. Set up (depending on the weather) after 10:00 AM. 3128 Branch Ave., Temple Hills, MD Union Market. TuesdayFriday, 11:00 AM8:00 PM; SaturdaySunday, 8:00 AM-8:00 PM. Union Market is an artisanal, curated, yearround food market featuring over 40 local vendors. 1309 5th St. NE. 3016527400. unionmarketdc.com Eastern Market. Daily except Mondays and important holidays. Weekdays, 7:00 AM7:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM; Sundays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Flea market and arts and crafts market open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Eastern Market is Washington’s last continually operated “old world” market. On weekends the market area comes alive with farmers bringing in fresh produce, craft and flower vendors, artists, a flea market and street musicians.

200 block of 7th St. SE. 202-698-5253. easternmarketdc.com Maine Avenue Fish Market. Open 365 days a year. 7:00 AM-9:00 PM. 1100 Maine Ave. SW. 202-484-2722.

CIVIC LIFE Eastland Gardens Civic Association Monthly Meeting. Third Tuesday, 6:308:00 PM at Kenilworth Elementary School Auditorium, 1300 44th St. NE. Contact Javier Barker, j58barker@yahoo.com or 202450-3155.

Congresswoman Norton’s SE District Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. 2041 MLK Ave. SE, #238. 202-678-8900. norton.house.gov Councilmember Alexander’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. 2524 Penn. Ave. SE. 202-5811560.

Councilmember Barry’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. 2100 MLK Ave, SE, #307. 202-6982185.

Anacostia Coordinating Council Meeting.

Last Tuesday, noon-2:00 PM. Anacostia Museum, 1901 Fort St. SE. For further details, contact Philip Pannell, 202-889-4900.

Capitol View Civic Association Meeting.

Third Monday, 6:30 PM. Hughes Memorial

United Methodist, 25 53rd St. NE. capitolviewcivicassoc.org Historical Anacostia Block Association.

Second Thursday, 7:00-9:00 PM. UPO-Anacostia Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. For further details, contact Charles Wilson, 202-834-0600.

Anacostia High School School Improvement Team Meeting. Fourth Tuesday. 6:00 PM. Anacostia High School, 16th and R sts. SE. Deanwood Citizens Association General Body Meeting. Fourth Monday, except Aug. and Dec., 6:30 PM. 1350 49th St. NE. Deanwood Citizens Association General Body Meeting. Fourth Monday, except Aug. and Dec., 6:30 PM. 1350 49th St. NE. Eastland Gardens Civic Association Meeting. Third Tuesday. 6:30-8:30 PM. Kenilworth Elementary School (auditorium), 1300 44th St. NE. Greg Rhett HYPERLINK “mailto:jrhett3009@aol.com”jrhett3009@ aol.com or 202-388-1532.

Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE.

ANC MONTHLY MEETINGS ANC 7B. Third Thursday, 7:00 PM. Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church, 3200 S St. SE (Branch Ave and S St. SE). 202-5843400. HYPERLINK “mailto:anc7b@pressroom.com”anc7b@pressroom.com. HYPERLINK “http://anc7b.us”anc7b.us ANC 7C. Second Thursday, 7:00 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202-3985100. HYPERLINK “mailto:anc7c@verizon. net”anc7c@verizon.net ANC 7D. Second Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Sixth District Police Station, 100 42nd St. NE. 202-398-5258. HYPERLINK “mailto:7D06@ anc.dc.gov”7D06@anc.dc.gov ANC 7E. Second Tuesday, 7:00-8:30 PM. Jones Memorial Church, 4625 G St. SE. 202582-6360. HYPERLINK “mailto:7E@anc. dc.gov”7E@anc.dc.gov ANC 7F. Third Tuesday, 6:30 PM. Washington Tennis and Education Foundation, 200 Stoddert Place, SE ANC 8A. First Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Anacostia UPO Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-889-6600. HYPERLINK “http:// www.anc8adc.org”anc8adc.org ANC 8B. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Seventh District Police Station Community Center, Alabama and McGee Sts. SE. 202-610-1818.

HYPERLINK “http://anc8b.org”anc8b.org ANC 8C. First Wednesday, 7:00 PM. 2907 MLK Jr Ave. SE. 202-388-2244.

ANC 8D. Fourth Thursday, 7:00 PM. Specialty Hospital of Washington, 4601 MLK Jr. Ave. SW. 202 561-0774 u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 15

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JULY HEALTH SPECIAL A Feature Issue on Black Wellness in DC

O

East of the River Health, A Personal Passion

by Yvette Alexander

ver the last seven years I have had the pleasure of working intimately on matters of health, both as a member, and since 2013 as the Chair of the Committee on Health for the Council of the District of Columbia. Health has always been a passion of mine, and no matter the task or legislation in front of me, its impact on health has always been in the forefront of the decisions I make and in line with my visions for quality health care East of the River.

A full service hospital represents the anchor of my vision with its core focus on reducing health disparities. I plan to be involved in all aspects; especially the development of a new and accessible hospital with a well-respected, financially strong partner.

Prior to joining the council I fought to save DC General. I believe that Reservation 13 is the premier location for a hospital to serve residents East of the River. Reservation 13 is more centrally located in Ward 7 and is directly adjacent to Wards 5 and 6. In practical terms the patient mix at Reservation 13 would provide the balance of privately insured and government insured that gives a hospital a much stronger chance at financial viability. Also, Reservation 13 is served by the convenience of the Stadium-Armory metro stop.

While we should study all viable locations the benefits of Reservation 13 are obvious.

In addition to the development of a full service facility, I am committed to the reduction of health disparities. Our existing hospitals represent billions of dollars in resources that, in conjunction with new clinics, outpatient centers, and our MCO’s, can assist in reducing theses disparities. As Chair of the Health Committee I have oversight over $3.6 billion of the District’s approximately $11 billion budget. My goal is to point these resources in the direction of reducing the heath disparities that are seen throughout the city but primarily East of the River. Teen pregnancy, childhood obesity, high blood pressure, high instances of HIV/ AIDS and high instances of diabetes are a few of the health issues that I am committed to reducing.

In support of reducing disparities I authored the “Commission on Health Disparities Establishment Act of 2013” with the goal of creating a commission composed of professionals and residents tasked with examining health disparities in the District. This commission should be in effect by the end of this year. In advance of this I ask all of our hospitals, clinics, non-profits and other providers to look at the issues East of the River and email my office with suggestions and solutions.

I will also reach out to our corporate community to support our health related non-profits with financial resources that serve East of the River entities. I encourage non-profit providers serving East of the River residents to email my office about needed resources. Right now we all need to work together to improve the health of our city.

The work has already begun with the rollout of the D.C. Health Exchange. This was a tremendous accomplishment. While other jurisdictions have struggled to get their exchanges going and have wasted millions of dollars; we, after nearly 100 meetings, roundtables, and smaller meetings, have an operational and successful exchange. Not only are we able to provide insurance options for our residents, we are able to maintain the type of independence that our Statehood demands by having our own exchange.

I want to thank those providers that work tirelessly everyday serving residents East of the River. It is my goal to ensure you have all the resources and support you need. As your champion I intend to think big about reducing health disparities and I intend to ask everyone to be part of the solution.

Yvette Alexander is the councilmember for Ward 7 and the Chair of the DC Council’s Committee on Health. u

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 17

Community of Hope’s Conway Health and Resource Center opened in January 2014.

Community of Hope Provides Next Door Health Care

Conway Health and Resource Center Brings Accessible Health Services to Bellevue

by Candace Y.A. Montague

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S

outh Capitol Street, below 295, hasn’t seen much new construction in decades. It is lined with blocks and blocks of apartment buildings and businesses that date back to the late 1950s. So it would be hard to miss the shiny new fourstory building that sits upon Atlantic Street. Perhaps that’s a good thing because when it comes to providing health care in Ward 8, where health disparities are blatant, you need a noticeable landmark to guide residents to a wellness center.

With health and social services for families, Community of Hope Conway Health and Resource Center aims to provide wraparound health care for residents to get them healthy and add more life to their years.

The Conway Health and Resource Center opened in January 2014. The 50,000 square foot facility is equipped to handle many health needs. There are 20 medical exam rooms, 11 dental chairs, 6 rooms for behavioral health services. Pediatric and women’s health care is offered. Soon to be added will be an ophthalmologist area for vision exams. “We try to cover as many needs as possible in one space. And we try to be as welcoming as possible. I think that when

patients come in and meet the providers and see the beautiful space and that everyone is friendly, they will want to come back,” stated Kelly Sweeney McShane, President and CEO of Community of Hope.

The Conway Center is a product of the Medical Homes DC Project, a program that is set to rebuild the District of Columbia’s primary care system by granting funds to existing health care facilities to help them expand their programs.

It is estimated that 210,000 low-income residents who live in areas of DC lack sufficient medical services. The Conway Center is projected to serve at least 40,000 patients per year.

With funding from several providers including Bill and Joanne Conway, for whom the center is named, Community of Hope hopes to be the medical home that establishes a long term relationship with residents so that they know where they can go for comprehensive health care. “One benefit of integrated services is that you don’t have to tell your story over and over again. The provider you see will already know what’s going on. So, for example, if you’re suffering from depression we can do a quick referral and the therapist can see what kind of medication you’re on. They don’t need all the details. We can follow up with the patients better,” says Sweeney McShane.

The Medical Landscape

According to the 2014 Community Health Assessment Survey, there are a sufficient number of providers serving the District but there are still “Medical Underserved” designated areas, particularly in Ward 8. In terms of coverage, Medicaid expansion in DC under the Affordable Care Act has increased the number of residents who have insur-

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not well. Patients should feel comfortable in a place where they know their medical provider.

Our focus is to make this a place where you have a provider and you feel comfortable.”

Breast Care for Washington

Conveniently located within the Conway Health and Resource Center is the first state-of-the-art breast cancer screening facility east of the Anacostia River with 3D technology for screening and diagnostic mammograms. This facility is operated by Breast Care for Washington, a new organization founded in 2012 by two local women – Dr. Regina Hampton, a breast surgeon, and Beth Beck former Executive Director of Capital Breast Care Center. “Our mission is reduce breast cancer mortality in the Washington, DC area by promoting access to breast cancer screening, diagnostics, and treatment to all women regardless of their ability to pay” said Beth Beck, CEO/President of BCW. “Our partnership with COH was an excellent match from the very beginning as we each have a goal of reducing health disparities in the District. As COH was developing the Conway Center it was clear that comprehensive health services was something they were interested in,” said Beck. “Our mammography services fit right in.”

3D mammography is the most advanced technology available for breast cancer screening and is currently only available in the larger institutions in Northwest DC. 3D mammograms increase the chances of finding cancer earlier when it is more treatable. Later-stage breast cancer diLEFT: Breast Care for Washington has the only 3D Mammogram machine in Wards 7 and 8.

ance coverage. However that doesn’t guarantee that more providers will be available to meet the health needs of participants. Conway Health Center is expected to alleviate that burden a bit by providing care.

Another point that must be highlighted is the need for medical homes. There are few doctor’s offices that are independent of United Medical Center in Ward 8. Research shows that when patients establish a medical home with a doctor they feel comfortable with they are more likely to remain in care and get necessary, lifesaving screenings in a timely manner. Dr. Shayla Graham-Brock, a family practice physician at the Conway Center, says establishing a relationship with her patients is paramount. “A medical home means not rushing to the ER when you’re

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RIGHT: Breast Care for Washington, located inside Conway Health and Resource Center on Atlantic Street, opened for patients in May.

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agnosis may be more common in African-American women.

“Now women living on the east side of the Anacostia no longer have to trek across the bridge to get comprehensive, quality care for their breast health,” said Beck. BCW anticipates being fully accredited for 3D mammograms early this fall.

In the meantime BCW offers fully digital screening and diagnostic mammograms, ultrasounds, and minimally invasive biopsies onsite in the Conway Center. Patients don’t need a referral for a screening – you just need to be over 40 and have not had one in the past year. “We will screen all women, even those without insurance,” says Beck. If patients don’t have a primary care provider, BCW will work with COH to provide them one.

Appointments for a mammogram may be scheduled.by calling 202-465-7164.

Expect Breast Care for Washington to have more partnerships in the community. The second phase of the program scheduled to be launched in 2015 will be a mobile screening program providing mammography services to be provided with other community health clinics on a rotating basis. “Our goal is grow to be the primary provider of community breast cancer screening services in the Washington, DC area,” stated Beck.

For more information about Community of Hope, visit www.communityofhopedc.org. For more information about Breast Care for Washington, visit www.breastcareforwashington.org.

Candace Y.A. Montague is the health reporter for Capital Community News u

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EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 23

Neighborhood Medicine

A Profile of Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick, physician and public health advocate

Y

ou may not notice Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick right away in a crowd. She stands at 5 feet 5 inches tall with cocoa brown skin and short, natural hair. Her unassuming presence is the way she carries herself in crowds, at community meetings, and with patients. She listens well. She chooses her words carefully.

In fact, that’s why Dr. Fitzpatrick is so often asked to speak at panel discussions and public events. Her ability to put complex medical terms and issues into plain English makes people feel at ease. She is patient and she is a listener. But behind her quiet, wise spirit are years of experience and exposure in the health field that has established her as the reputable community doctor that she is known to be.

by Candace Y.A. Montague Lisa Fitzpatrick, MD. Photo: Ron Ceasar

The Pollinator

Lisa Fitzpatrick grew up in St. Louis, Missouri the middle child of three. She knew at an early age that she would not remain there for the rest of her life. “St. Louis is very provincial. People who are from there don’t typically leave.” In 1986, she entered an intensive, six-year medical school program at the University of Missouri in Kansas City.

Fitzpatrick began practicing medicine in at the St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. She thought she would begin her career as an emergency room doctor. “I wanted to be an ER doctor because I wanted to fix the problem and move on to the next challenge. I call myself a pollinator because I like to take something and make it functional and pass it on to someone while I move on to the next thing. Infectious diseases appealed to me because I could diagnose and treat a person for pneumonia or meningitis, the person would get better and I’d move on to the next patient.” It’s that kind of energy that has kept Dr. Fitzpatrick on the move for many years around the world.

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Since leaving her residency in 1995, Dr. Fitzpatrick has traveled to work in more than 12 different countries in Africa and the Caribbean. She has visited at least three countries in Asia. She settled for an extended period of time in Atlanta while working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. She even did a quick stint in the Caribbean as the head of the CDC’s Global AIDS Program. “I learned many lessons about myself, my leadership style and how to motivate people who felt they didn’t have a champion.

The experience made me realize I really wanted to work in impoverished communities.” After 10 years at the CDC, Dr. Fitzpatrick resigned, took a six-week vacation in Asia and headed to back to the states to move on to the next phase of her career. The pollinator was on the move again.

United Medical Center Welcomes Dr. Fitzpatrick

In 2008, Dr. Fitzpatrick was recruited to work at Howard University Hospital. She divided her time between consulting for the DC Department of Health and practicing medicine at Howard University. When the health department decided to concentrate more on HIV in the city, they asked for Dr. Fitzpatrick’s help. “DC was just starting to increase efforts around HIV and the health department was forging a partnership with NIH. They asked me to conduct a stakeholders’ assessment of the HIV epidemic response. That’s how I came to know all the people who were involved in HIV right away and it helped me a lot.”

During her time at Howard, Dr. Fitzpatrick was asked to conduct HIV trainings at United Medical Center. She was intrigued by the community surrounding UMC and knew that this was just the kind of setting she was looking to serve. “I met with CEOFrank Delisi to get an understanding of their plans and how we could collaborate. He introduced me to members of his executive team. And after they got to know me a little, I helped them establish their HIV program.

We secured a grant from the health department.

In 2012, the Infectious Disease Center at UMC was born. I was very pleased to see this happen.”

Dr. Fitzpatrick had found her niche in public health. She had the drive and demeanor to be the people’s doctor. Approachable. Non-judgmental.

Accessible. Khadijah Tribble, former Director of Operations for the UMC Infectious Disease Center, says Dr. Fitzpatrick explains things so well to patients. “She can get into the intimate details about why there are barriers related to health.

And she can get through to people whether it’s medication adherence or disclosure or safer sex practice. She tries to understand what’s going on with the patient so they can overcome those obstacles and lead a healthier life.”

The Community Wellness Collective

The public health advocate side Dr. Fitzpatrick champions won’t let her rest with infectious diseases. She strives to dig deeper. In 2013, she began to evaluate her surroundings and inquired about starting a place where people can not only exercise but also get health education that would help them sustain a healthy lifestyle. “People say ‘if we only had some place to workout’ it would be better. I thought that we can make that happen but it has to be community focused.

We have to be creative. There are people who want to exercise, but don’t know where to begin. People will tell you that they don’t work out because they don’t have access or they can’t afford it. We eliminate those two excuses off the top.”

After careful examination of the community health needs, Dr. Fitzpatrick collaborated with a few quality fitness instructors to begin the Community Wellness Collective in July 2013. Dr. Fitzpatrick pays to rent space in the Anacostia Arts Center from her own salary while waiting for non-profit status. All instructors and guest speakers donate their time to teach classes. Classes cost $5 a session and the first class is always free.

Tano Mazi, yoga instructor at the Collective, says he was excited to work with Dr. Fitzpatrick. “Everything she wanted to do--health literacy, education, fitness--was in sync with what I wanted to do through yoga. She’s pretty tireless in her efforts.”

Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick is health and healthy habits to the local community one patient at a time.

Candace Y.A. Montague is the health reporter for Capital Community News. u

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The Silent Epidemic: Hepatitis C New drugs give hope to those who face Hepatitis C written and photo by Candace Y.A. Montague

I’ve done some bad things in my lifetime. I’ve hurt some people.

In between my three marriages, I was very promiscuous. But I’ve also learned a lot from those experiences. Now, by the grace of God, I know better.

T

hese days Juan DeCosta reveals his life’s story only to a select few people. He’s a private man. He’s also a man who was near death less than a year ago from a virus that he didn’t even know he had and carried for many years.

Now he is sharing his experiences in hopes of helping others.

Juan DeCosta, 55, is a native of Southeast who dropped out of Hart Middle School in the eighth grade. But that didn’t stop him from getting what he wanted in life. He could talk his way into things. As an adult he networked his way into a staff caterer position at a major DC law firm after being laid off from Clyde’s of Georgetown. He became very good at catering, cooking and training the wait staff to provide top-notch service.

Juan was financially secure, had many friends, and affection for the ladies. He carried this lifestyle on for more than eight years.

One morning, in 2009, Juan woke up extremely fatigued. It was different from other mornings.

“I was working 18-hour days and partying. I was the party guy. But I was killing myself. I was dying and didn’t know it. I thought I was tired from work. Meanwhile my weight was dropping. My skin was discolored. I was weak. I kept popping Aleve and Tylenol for this pain in my stomach that wouldn’t go away. I told my wife I couldn’t do it anymore. I kept saying I don’t feel good.”

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Juan DeCosta, former Hepatitis C patient, now lives a healthier life and strives to inspire others.

At the behest of Juan, his wife called his job and told them that he wouldn’t be in that day. Juan was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver caused

by Hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C, African-Americans, and the Baby Boomers

Hepatitis C is a virus that attacks the liver. It is transmitted through the blood and most people who contract it have no symptoms. If left untreated it can lead to serious liver damage and liver cancer. Hepatitis C is commonly spread through activities such as needle sharing, needle stick injuries or passed to infants from mothers who are

infected. Hep C can also be spread through sexual contact with an infected person. In Juan’s case, it was sexual contact that infected him.

The Center for Disease Control estimates that 3.2 million people in the United States have Hepatitis C. In the District, between 2007 and 2011, it is estimated that there were as many as 13,500 reported cases of Chronic Hepatitis C. More than 3,000 cases were reported in Wards 7 and 8. Hepatitis C is known as the silent epidemic because it typically doesn’t present symptoms. Three out of four people in the District who have it, don’t know it. African-Americans comprise nearly 90 percent of the reported cases; more than half were males.

Baby Boomers are at an elevated risk. Peo-

ple born between the years 1946 and 1964 have the highest number of reported cases. Why? Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick explains that this generation saw a lot of injection drug use. “This birth cohort lived through an era where there was more injection drug use which is where we see the majority of transmission. But it’s important to know that it’s not just injection drug use that transmits the virus.

A person could have had sex with a person who is already infected.”

Some injection drug users are co-infected with HIV because both viruses can be transmitted through the blood.

After Diagnosis

Juan was now facing the awful truth about his health. He had an official diagnosis and was left with very few options for treatment. His doctor explained that he could take a drug that contains interferon, a chemical known to treat Hep C. Interferon has been known for years to have terrible side effects especially for African Americans.

“My doctor said there’s only a 30% chance that this stuff might work.

You’re gonna have side effects like flu-like symptoms. You have to take this injection every week. You have to take this pill every day. If you can get through all of that you might be ok. I didn’t want to do that.” Then he suggested that Juan try to get into a clinical trial with a new medicine being developed at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. He took the number for the trial, placed it in his wallet, and carried it there for months.

Depression set in and he stopped working and left his house very little. “I was devastated. I started thinking about the scandalous women I dealt with. But they didn’t force me. I was mad at myself. My wife was mad but eventually she cooled down. She tested negative but that was the beginning of the end for us.” In 2013 he decided to call the number for the clinical trial. After advocating for himself with an NIH represen-

tative, Juan was accepted into the trial for Sofosbuvir. He wife left him one week prior to his arrival in Bethesda.

Twelve Weeks, One Pill A Day

The first three days of his trial were spent on the campus of NIH. Juan was the very first patient to try a dose of Sofosbuvir. “I felt different on the very first day. I took the pill and was moving around like ‘yeah.

I feel this’. No side effects. I had all this energy. By the end of the third day I was walking around trying to burn off some energy. By the end of the first month I was feeling 10 years younger. It was crazy.”

Sofosbuvir is designed to be taken in the form of a pill once a day for 90 days.

The DC Department of Health Division of HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Administration (HAHSTA) advises people ages 50 and over to get tested with their health care provider. HAHSTA Senior Director Michael Kharfen says the earlier the screenings the better. “We recommend a single screening for the baby boomer population. It just takes one test.

No annual screenings needed. Hep C can be managed if caught early.

The new medications have been shown to be between 90 and 100 percent effective in curing Hep C.” As for Juan, he now sits on several health-related advisory boards contributing to the solution. It’s how he gives back to the community and to NIH for saving his life.

“I’m cured. When people see me now they see life. I got my life back.

Jesus Christ, my Lord and savior gave me my life back. I feel great.”

For more information about Hepatitis C, visit the Department of Health’s website http://doh. dc.gov/service/what-hepatitis.

Candace Y.A. Montague is the health reporter for Capital Community News.

People like Juan DeCosta. A survivor who has lived more ________ and returned to life Reformed, forgiven and redeemed. u

We DOUBLE your EBT,WIC & Seniors Coupon dollars! (up to $15 per week, while funds last) *Double value provided by Wholesome Wave Foundation

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Calendar of Events with Our THEARC Partners: July 12

10:00 AM | Free Beginners Yoga & Bee Keeping 101 10:30 AM | THEARC Organic Garden Tour 11:00 AM | Organic Garden Art Project

July 19

10:00 AM | Free Beginners Yoga 10:30 AM | THEARC Organic Garden Tour 11:00 AM | Whole Foods Cooking Demo

July 26

10:00 AM | Free Beginner Yoga 10:30 AM | THEARC Organic Garden Tour

FRESH FRUIT, VEGGIES, MEATS & MORE! OPEN SATURDAYS 9 AM - 2 PM @ W8FarmMkt 1901 Mississippi Ave., SE www.Ward8FarmersMarket.com ward8fm@gmail.com EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 27

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

theNUMB3RS 3.327.649.10

Coming Soon to You: A Tax Cut!

T

here is a good chance that you will soon get a tax cut from the District government.

In something of a surprise move, the DC Council approved sweeping changes to the District’s tax code in late May, based on recommendations from DC’s blue-ribbon Tax Revision Commission. It includes income tax cuts for nearly all District residents, with special help for middle- and lower-income households. It also includes the first cut in DC’s business income tax rate in decades.

The tax package includes a small number of tax increases, including an expansion of the DC sales tax to gym memberships and other services. As often is the case when a tax exemption is eliminated, some gym owners and members have opposed this change. But their arguments about maintaining their special treatment run counter to the principle that the best approach is to broaden the tax base and keep rates low.

Making the Income Tax Fairer for All District Residents

If your income is below $500,000, you can probably expect a tax cut. District residents with lowand moderate-income residents, who face tax bills that are higher than middle-income families in most parts of the country, will get special help. The council’s tax package will be phased in over the next five years, but only if the city’s economy and revenues continue to grow.

Here is how the key tax changes will affect us:

• Expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for low-income workers without children. The EITC, a tax credit for the working poor, lifts many families with children out of poverty, but it provides very small benefits to workers without children in their home. The maximum credit for childless residents is less than $200 and only goes to workers earning under $14,000 a year. The new tax package expands eligibility to $23,000 and increases the maximum credit to almost $500. For example, a single person earning $18,000 will go from owing $533 this year -to getting a refund of

28 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

by Wes Rivers

$102, largely as a result of the new EITC.

• Raising the personal exemption and standard deduction to federal levels. The District’s personal exemption and standard deduction, which exempt a certain portion of income from taxes, are small compared with states and the federal income tax. This is especially hard for low- and moderate-income families that rely heavily on these deductions. The tax package will raise these deductions to the federal levels – a best practice followed by six other states. A single parent with two children and $30,000 income currently gets a $146 refund as a result of the EITC. With her taxes reduced as a result of a higher standard deduction and personal exemption, her refund will jump to $724.

• Cutting the tax rate for middle incomes. The package cuts the tax rate for income between $40,000 and $60,000 from 8.5 percent to 6.5 percent. The rate cut plus the increase in personal exemptions means that middle income families will keep a lot more of what they earn – helping them pay for things like school uniforms, work supplies, and music lessons. For example, a married couple earning $100,000 will see their taxes cut more than $500.

These cuts will help families cope with DC’s rising cost of living, leaving them in a better position to make investments for future needs and thrive economically.

Creating a strong and fair sales tax

Consumption patterns in the U.S. have shifted over time from an economy based mostly on goods to one dominated by services. That means that a sales tax tied largely to the purchase of goods becomes weaker every year at raising revenue to pay for

services like police protection and libraries. Fiscal policy experts re c o m m e n d broadening the sales tax to include as many consumer purchases as possible.

With that in mind, the Council chose to broaden the sales tax to include several more services, including carpet cleaning, health clubs, and billiards parlors and bowling alleys. The expansion will not only align our sales tax to consumer expenditure patterns, but also raise revenue that will help offset income tax reductions for both individuals and businesses.

Some—especially the affected businesses—have raised concerns about this approach, fearing that the expansion of sales tax to gym memberships will be a fitness deterrent, a so-called “fitness tax.”

However, expanding the sales tax is sound policy, and there are several reasons why claims opposing the expansion are unfounded: Convenience and location factor into purchasing decisions. Shoppers always look for good prices, but they also want convenience. The District’s sales

tax applies to dry cleaning, yet there is no evidence that people travel elsewhere to get their clothes cleaned. It is hard to believe that District residents will choose to travel outside of the city to work-out, when the sales tax will only add a couple of dollars a month to their fee or membership.

Income tax reductions in the package will more than offset any increases residents see in sales tax.

Individual residents will benefit from significant tax reductions with the Council’s package, giving consumers more purchasing power. Residents with incomes between $50,000 and $75,000, for example, will receive a tax cut of about $400. Given that gym membership costs around $70 a month, the benefits from the income tax would far outweigh the additional $50 members would pay in annual sales tax. Businesses affected by the tax expansion will also benefit from reductions in the business franchise tax.

Expanding the sales leaves fewer exemptions to the tax, making it fairer for the business community. Affected businesses feel targeted, but that is because they are among the small group of consumer purchases not taxed now. Adding gyms to the sales tax makes sense not only for base broadening but also as a matter of fairness. If a resident pays sales tax to buy weightlifting equipment, someone who buys a gym membership should pay sales tax, too.

The Council’s tax package will make the District a fairer place. The reforms will help ensure that low and moderate-income residents can continue to afford the city and that DC has a robust sales tax that continues to pay for important city services.

Wes Rivers is a policy analyst at the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www.dcfpi.org). DCFPI conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect low- and moderate-income DC residents. u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 29

BULLETIN BOARD Visitors of all ages enjoy the crafts at the Lotus & Water Lily Festival.

Photo: M. Marquez

4844 to register. This forum is at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

11th Street SE On-Ramp to Westbound I-695 Closed

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens Annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in NE Washington is one of DC’s “Hidden Treasures.” It is the only National Park devoted to the propagation of water lilies and lotus plants that are native to the DC area and from countries around the world. These beautiful flowers are at peak bloom in mid-July and the display of pink and purple blossoms spread out over several acres of the park is worth celebrating. Join them on Saturday, July 19, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for a day of free music, educational programs, art, hands on activities, demonstrations, and more.... The festival is a cultural event that ties in Korean and South African culture that both have strong connections to aquatic lilies and lotus’ in their countries. Learn about the use of the lotus plant for dyes, tea, food, and other uses in these other countries and see varieties of plants from these and other countries in the gardens. Programs, activities and entertainment will be on-going throughout the day. Due to the growing popularity of this event, the National Park Service has set up satellite parking areas and will offer a free shuttle bus service from parking lots to the event. In addition, people are being encouraged to take Metro to the Minnesota Avenue station and to follow signs to Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue to pick up the free shuttle to the park entrance. The shuttle will run from 10 a.m.-5:00 p.m. For more information, visit nps.gov/Keaq.

Skating Resumes at Fort Dupont Ice Arena

Starting Saturday, July 5, public skating will resume at Fort Dupont Ice Arena on Saturdays and Sundays through the end of summer from noon to 1:50 p.m. Dress for warmth and safety. Clothes should be easy to move in, and pants must not fall below the heel of the skate (sweatpants or leggings are a good choice).

Everyone needs to wear gloves or mittens, and one pair of thin, long 30 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

socks or tights that fit snugly (no ankle socks). A helmet or knit hat is strongly recommended (loaner helmets are available). Admission is $5 for ages 13 and older, $4 for ages 12 and under and $4 for seniors 65 and older. Skate rental is $3. Fort Dupont Ice Arena is at 3779 Ely Pl. NE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org

Community Forum: Weed, a Dialogue on De-Criminalization

With the push to legalize marijuana

gaining ground nationally, “legal weed shops” in urban centers such as Seattle and Denver have re-invigorated the ongoing national dialogue on the socio-economic consequences of legally buying and using marijuana in urban communities.

On Wednesday, July 9, 7-9 p.m., join DC Councilman Tommy Wells, representatives from the Wards 7 and 8 DC Prevention Center, MPDC, and other members of the community as they discuss the ramifications of this timely issue. Call ACM at 202-633-

As part of the 11th Street Bridge Project, the District Department of Transportation has closed the 11th Street SE on-ramp to westbound I-695 (Southeast/Southwest Freeway). The ramp is scheduled to reopen on Saturday, Aug. 23, weather permitting. The two-month closure of this ramp is needed to allow crews to complete final construction of the ramp and new bridge structure. During the closure, traffic will be detoured to I St. SE and Virginia Ave. SE to access westbound I-695 via the 3rd St. SE on-ramp.

Artist Studio Tour to DC and Maryland: Focus on Women

On Saturday, July 12, 10:30 a.m.3 p.m., catch the museum shuttle and visit the studios of Cheryl Edwards (painter), Lilian Thomas Burwell (mixed-media installation), and Betty Murchison (painter). There is a $10 transportation fee. Call ACM at 202-633-4844.

Bus leaves from Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu

Discover the Plants of Shepherd Parkway

On Saturday, July 19, 10-11 a.m., join your neighbors for a leisurely walk through one of Ward 8’s stunning but rarely-visited forests.

Mary Pat Rowan of the Maryland Native Plant Society will help identify common, rare and invasive plants and trees. This is a opportunity to learn more about the ecosystem. This event, sponsored by the Congress Heights Community Association, Washington Parks and People, National Capital Parks-East, Maryland Native Plant Society, is free and welcoming of the public. Meet across from 249 Newcomb St. Coffee and donuts provided. Call 301-758-5892 or email nbharrington@yahoo.com with any questions.

Community Forum: Culture & Creativity (People in Business, Parts 1 and 2)

The legion of young entrepreneurs has steadily grown in communities nationwide with no end to the trend in sight.

On Thursday, July 10, 7-9 p.m., join clothing store owner Anika Hobbs of Nubian Hueman boutique, Allison Brown of Allison’s Quilting, and others as they discuss their motivation to succeed and the businesses they started as a result.

This program repeats on July 17 with new speakers. You may also call 202-633-4844 to register. This forum is at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu

Recreational Fishing Days

Please join Anacostia Watershed Society, University of Maryland College Park, and Anacostia Community Museum for a day of recreational fishing. They will provide fishing rods and bait on a firstcome, first-served basis (bring your own if you prefer). Each participant will receive a gift card valued at $10 for providing them with your catch! All ages and experience levels are welcome. They are also looking for a few volunteers to help with logistics if interested, let them know at anacostiaws.org.

Remaining Recreational Fishing Days this season are Saturday July 26, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Bladensburg Waterfront Park, 4601 Annapolis Rd., Bladensburg, MD; Saturday, Aug. 16, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Anacostia Park, 1900 Anacostia Freeway; Saturday September 20, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Hains Point, 927 Ohio Dr. SW; Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m.4 p.m., Bladensburg Waterfront Park, 4601 Annapolis Rd, Bladensburg, MD.

The South African Spoken Word Tradition

In conjunction with the exhibition Ubuhle Women: Bead-

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650 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. Suite 420 Washington, DC 20003 (202) 547-9090 (O) • (202) 547-9092 (F) EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 31

BULLETIN BOARD Photo: Courtesy of DC Greens

DC Greens Opens Mid-Week Market Stand at THEARC

Good news! You don’t have to wait until Saturday to purchase fresh, organic produce at THEARC! Stop by every Tuesday, through Oct. 28, 4-7 p.m., to check out what’s growing on! DC Greens connects communities to healthy food in the nation’s capital. The market is at THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. dcgreens.org

work and the Art of Independence, this special edition of “Community Leaders are Readers” focuses on South African languages. Local artist Akua Allrich talks about the tonal rhythms found in African speech patterns and their relationship to poetry and music. A participatory art workshop follows. Event is on Saturday, Aug. 2, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Call 202-633-4844 to register. Anacostia Neighborhood Library

Invasive Insects Threatening DC’s Ash Trees

Arborists from the District Department of Transportation’s Urban Forestry Administration recently discovered a number of small, invasive beetles that pose a threat to some trees in the District. Adult emerald ash borers (EABs, aka Agrilus planipennis) were found 32 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

inside ash trees near Oxon Run in Ward 8 and were sighted in other locations throughout the District, which UFA has identified on an interactive map. The larvae of these insects, which are native to China, grow and devour the insides of ash trees before chewing their way out through telltale D-shaped tunnels.

Currently, the District has 215 ash trees in public space (that is, street trees); however, there are hundreds– if not thousands–of ash trees located on private property.

Leave Fire Hydrants Alone

As temperatures rise, the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department and DC Water urge those in the District to beat the heat without tampering with fire hydrants. Unauthorized hydrant use can hamper firefighting, damage the water system and

cause injury. It can also flood streets, creating traffic dangers. It can lower the water pressure for everyone on the block. Residents and visitors in the District can keep cool by staying in shade or air conditioning and drinking plenty of water. When the temperature or heat index reaches 95, residents are encouraged to take extra precautions against the heat. If they do not live in an airconditioned building, they may take refuge at a District swimming pool, cooling center, recreation facility, senior center or other air-conditioned building. More information, and locations, can be found at dc.gov or by calling 311.

In the event of a life-threatening heat emergency, please call 911 for medical assistance. Tampering with a District hydrant is a crime, subject to a $100 fine. To report unauthorized use of fire hydrants, call the DC

Water Command Center at 202612-3400. To learn more about the perils of opening a hydrant, view the DC Water video at: bit.ly/T3Y0XZ.

DDOT Showcases Historic Photos, Documents Online

The District Department of Transportation announces the debut of its new tumblr page, ddotdc.tumblr. com--an online resource for historic, transportation-related photos and documents. The agency’s tumblr page is an effort to showcase the District’s transportation past and give the public a look into the collections that are housed in DDOT’s Library and Archives. For the full story, visit ddotdish.com.

Native Art Market Call to Artists

The Native Art Market is Dec. 5-7 at the National Museum of the

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 33

BULLETIN BOARD Anacostia Water Trail Ribbon Cutting.

Photo: Anacostia Watershed Society

dence in the District of Columbia.

REAL ID is a coordinated effort by US jurisdictions and the Federal Government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards which should inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification. REAL ID implements a 9/11 Commission recommendation urging the Federal Government to “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver licenses.” The Department of Homeland Security is implementing REAL ID through a period of phased enforcement over the next several years. dmv.dc.gov

Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair Seeks Vendors

Anacostia Water Trail Unveiled

On June 5, the Anacostia Watershed Society was joined by Maryland Governor O’Malley, Congresswoman Edwards and National Park Service Deputy Director Goldfuss to officially launch the Anacostia Water Trail. The unveiling, part of the official launch of the Star-Spangled Summer and Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, was set against a backdrop of kayakers enjoying the Anacostia River at Bladensburg Waterfront Park and featured the unfurling of a hand-stitched replica American flag, and a performance of the National Anthem by members of the Fort McHenry Guard Fife and Drum Corp. The launch of the water trails promoted outdoor experiences and recreational opportunities available to Anacostia Watershed residents.

American Indian. There are online applications only. The application deadline is Sept. 5, 2014. Apply at nmai.si.edu/artmarket/calltoartists.

If you have any questions or need help, email NMAI-ArtMarket@ si.edu or call 212-514-3709.

11th Street Bridge Project Receives Excellence in Concrete Award

The District Department of Transportation’s 11th Street Bridge Project received its eighth award on May 29, an Award of Excellence in Concrete from the National Capitol Chapter of the American Concrete Institute.

The award was the seventh in two years and the eighth since 2009.

In 2009, DDOT began construction on the new 11th Street Bridge Project, the District’s first river bridge replacement in more than 40 years and the largest project in DDOT’s 34 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

history. The project has created direct connections between the DC-295 (Anacostia Freeway) and I-695 (SE/ SW Freeway), diverting traffic from local roads. It has also replaced the structurally-deficient spans and provides an enhanced emergency evacuation route. The 11th Street Bridge Project is an integral piece in the Anacostia Waterfront Initiative, one of the most ambitious development plans in the history of the District.

Spanning 30 years and comprising $10 billion worth of investment, the AWI pledges to restore and revitalize the Anacostia River. Led by the District of Columbia government the AWI vision is to reconnect to the river, so that widespread access to the Anacostia River and its new parks, recreational, cultural, residential and commercial centers is possible. For more information about AWI and the 11th Street Bridge Replacement Project, visit anacostiawaterfront.org.

Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair will be held Saturday, Sept. 27 and Sunday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The vendor application deadline is July 6.

All applicants must submit conatct and business information, description of your work and the products you will have for sale (100 words max). 5 images (200K max file size) and a $20 application fee. Email craftybastards@washingtoncitypaper.com with any questions. washingtoncitypaper.com

REAL ID Credential Issued by DMV DDOT Compendium: DDOT’s Effective May 1, the District of Co- Online Research Tool lumbia began issuing a REAL ID credential. The REAL ID credential requires a one-time revalidation of source documents when obtaining, renewing or requesting a duplicate DC driver license or identification card. This validation will enable the DC Department of Motor Vehicles to ensure your identity and issue a federally compliant REAL ID driver license/identification card. The new requirements will affect what you will need to bring to the DC DMV office when obtaining, renewing or requesting a duplicate credential. First time DC applicants and existing DC driver license/identification card holders should expect to provide source documents as proof of identity (full legal name and date of birth), social security number, lawful presence in the United States, and current resi-

The District Department of Transportation has announced an online research tool to assist residents, visitors and businesses alike to better understand the legal parameters within which DDOT functions as well as the policies and vision that guide its day-to-day operations.

The DDOT Compendium is a tool that provides comprehensive information about DDOT policies, procedures, and services in an online, searchable format. The Compendium contains a variety of documents and reference materials—ranging from regulations, federal legislation, and transportation studies, to online permit look-up tools and FAQs—organized by topic into summary pages that provide links to related documents and references. For more information, visit comp.ddot.dc.gov. u

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

Request for Proposal Environmental Consulting Services SOLICITATION NO. 0033-2014

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY (DCHA) a public housing authority responsible for administering federal assistance programs for low and moderate income families hereby request proposals from qualified firms to provide Environmental Consulting Services.

Solicitation documents will be available at 1133 North Capitol Street, N.E., Room 300, Department of Administrative Services, Washington, DC. 20002 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday beginning Monday, June 30, 2014 or the District of Columbia Housing Authority website at www.dcha.org. Proposals are due to the issuing office by 10:00 a.m. (ET) Wednesday, July 30, 2014.

Contact information for issuing office: Darcelle Beaty (202) 535-1212 or email dbeaty@dchousing.org for additional information.

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 35

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Demolition by Neglect A Rich Architectural Heritage Worth Saving Article and Photos by John Muller

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ld Anacostia’s abandoned houses abide; some vacant a matter of weeks, others a couple years, many a decade or two or three. “An entire generation of children has grown up in Anacostia only knowing a neighborhood of vacant houses,” says local activist William Alston-El. “Ask Rip Van Winkle; he could tell you the last time someone was living there,” AlstonEl remarks as we stand in front of a two-story Victorian home at 1220 Maple View SE that has been abandoned for parts of six decades according to property records. A look down the street unfolds a panorama of the city with the Capitol Dome punctuating the skyline.

“The city owns it now. You think they’ll save it? They’re the only ones that can. They could if they wanted to, but this isn’t the Ana-

costia people want to talk about.”

Teal paint still clings in places to the window frames of the home, known as “Big Green,” built in 1902 for N. R. Harnish, the shopkeeper at the Government Hospital for the Insane, just up Nichols Avenue, today Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue. Popular neighborhood myth has incorrectly held that the home was that of Dr. Charles H. Nichols, the first superintendent of the Government Hospital, today known as Saint Elizabeths.

(Nichols died in December 1889 and lived on campus.)

By the late 1880s, Harnish, an emigrant from Nova Scotia, was working at the Hospital and making $50 a month, according to government reports. In 1901, he was making more than $65 a month, and his wife, Annie,

was making $18 as the assistant storekeeper.

The next year, Harnish applied for a building permit to construct a two-story, multi-family dwelling for an estimated cost of $4,000.

In August 1933, at the age of ninety-one, Nathaniel Robert Harnish passed away at his home. His funeral was held at Emmanuel Episcopal Church at 13th and V Streets and he was interred at Rock Creek Cemetery. In February 1952, Annie S. Harnish, a resident of Washington for more than 60 years, passed away at 1220 Maple View Place. She was 98

LEFT: 1220 Maple View Place SE Was recently acquired by DCHCD. RIGHT TOP: The first 5 homes on Valley Street SE shown on an 1887 Hopkins Real Estate Map. DC Public Library, Special Collections.

RIGHT BELOW: Valley Place SE in 1885. Historical Society of Washington.

36 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

years old. In November the property was transferred to a new owner, Rose Lawler, pursuant with Harnish’s will.

In September 1954 the home’s deed of trust was mortgaged by the Anacostia Federal Savings and Loan Association for $9,500 with monthly payments of $71.25. A decade later, the house was returned to Lawler.

Soon thereafter, in late 1964, the home was advertised in the Post as being “VACANT – DECORATED.” The listing for 1220 Maple View SE read, “DETACHED TWO FAMILY, 2 klts., 2 baths, 10 rms., full bsmt., auto. heat., conv. area.” The ad ran for a number of months.

It is unclear from subsequent property and tax records when the house was next occupied. In conversations with area residents it appears the home may have been lived in for a short period during the 1980s.

Other residents, such as Alston-El, are unable to confirm this, believing the home to be vacant for more than three decades. According to property records, Citicorp foreclosed on the home in March of 1990 when more than $19,000 was owed on the principal of the mortgage. According to property records and a 1992 real estate assessment directory, the home was purchased in May 1990 for $50,000 by a private individual. It has been continuously vacant since, with the exception of the occasional squatter or alley cat.

A number of years ago what remained of the decaying wrap-around porch was removed. More recently, in late 2005 and early 2006, a new foundation was laid in the back twothirds of the home with original brick remaining towards the front. The rear has been held up from collapse by a weathered series of boards that extend at a 45 degree angle into the ground, nearly extending into the alley.

On May 20 the Department of Community and Housing Development secured the tax deed for just under $38,000. The proposed 2015 property value of the home and land are $157,470. According to a local developer familiar with historic preservation efforts in Anacostia, the cost of a full restoration could run well over a million dollars. “You could spend easy a half-million before you even start on the inside work. It’s leaning. It has to be stabilized. It

1326 Valley Place crumbles as 1328 Valley Place is restored to its orignal beauty.

could need a new roof, you got the porch to restore. It’s not going to be cheap,” the developer said on condition of anonymity.

Carol Goldman, President of The L’Enfant Trust wrote in an email,” I think ‘Big Green’ could well be a six figure rehabilitation project. In the Trust’s model, it would take charitable funding as well as end user dollars – for example a veterans group, workforce housing group, or for an arts/community/education center.”

Does DHCD have a restoration plan for 1220 Maple View Place SE? Can the house be saved or will it vanish while under the city’s care like 2228 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE? In order to save the home, the city will have to act quickly, likely selling the property for $1 and substantially subsidizing its restoration with grants. Through decades of private inattention and a lack of aggressive enforcement of public policies intended to prevent the demolition by neglect of old Anacostia, the razing of the property may be inevitable.

The acquisition of “Big Green” swells DHCD’s portfolio of vacant buildings within Anacostia to over a dozen residential and commercial properties. Here’s a look at another agency property in immediate need of preservation and restoration.

1326 Valley Place SE

In 1885 local streetcar president Henry A. Griswold built five detached single family homes as the first development to line Valley Street in Uniontown. To generate interest in his properties, which were built on speculation, Griswold put trees in front of each home and had a photograph taken that he distributed throughout the neighborhood.

In the mid-1930s a room for rent at 1326 Valley Place was advertised for $20 per month in local newspapers. By the late 1930s Earl Von Reichenbach, a prominent local architect, lived at the home with his son and dog. During World War II the address is listed for a GI returning to Washington but otherwise the public record on the home is rather bare. In 1985 the home was listed in a legal notice printed in the Post seeking owners of abandoned property. A private individual appears to have made a claim of ownership to the city but never acquired the deed.

According to property records, 1326 Valley Place was sold by the city in 2005 at a foreclosure auction for $2,044.14 to Darwin Trust Properties, LLC. Darwin Trust’s CEO was incarcerated while the city pursued legal action against the company under the demolition by neglect statute, one of only two times the city has prosecuted

the statute. Through the litigation, the city was able to get a court order to let DCRA abate the property.

At some point in recent memory an industrial machine was brought in to cut off the rear of the home as though it was a loaf of bread. This was done in an effort to prevent further deterioration of the room which still has its original banister.

After half a decade of further deterioration, the city finally re-acquired the property in a November 2011 foreclosure sale for just under $12,000. According to a 2015 proposed tax assessment, the house is worth less than $2,500 and the land is valued $125,330 for a total of $127,750. In 2011 the property had a value of $135,900.

Last year the exterior of 1328 Valley Place SE, next door and one of the original five homes on the street, was fully restored, in part through a popular grant program coordinated by the Historic Preservation Office that targets 14 Historic Districts citywide.

Given the historic character of 1326 Valley Place, we hope the city finds a way to restore what’s left of 1326.

The rebirth of old Anacostia should not occur with the continued neglect and slow demolition of two of the oldest homes in the city’s first subdivision. u

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 37

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Solving Hunger East of the River The Triumphs and Struggles with Food Assistance written and photos by Candace Y.A. Montague

F

ood insecurity was and still remains a grave concern for many families. Although there are programs available to assist in times of trouble, the need has grown and the suppliers are overwhelmed with requests.

Capital Area Food Bank offers assistance to organizations all across the metropolitan area. They help stock the shelves for groups that serve the families, the elderly, and the disabled. But beyond the benevolence of CAFB there is a reality that leaves some families constantly worried that their food will run out.

square mile where there are people without access to the food they need.

People aren’t aware of the stories of hunger around the city. The need is real and palpable.”

In addition to training programs that show community partners how to teach parents to create healthy meals at home with a few ingredients, CAFB offers free programs such as Kids Café, Weekend Bags, and the Summer Meal Program that provides breakfast and lunch to TOP: Wanda Flibbonds, Site Director, heads the Summer Enrichment and After School Programs for the Frederick Douglass Community Center.

Together We Can Solve Hunger

Capital Area Food Bank is the area’s largest hunger relief organization apportioning 45 million pounds of food every year across the District, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County and Northern Virginia.

The non-profit organization, now in it’s 34th year of existence, partners with 500 agencies including soup kitchens, food pantries, homeless shelters, faith-based organizations and more. CAFB has several programs to address hunger among the estimated 31,000 kids who are hungry in the city. Although the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) Program help, it isn’t enough.

Nancy Roman, President and CEO of the Capital Area Food Bank, says their non-profit helps other organizations fill in those gaps.

“We don’t exist in substitution of Federal Programs; we complement them. We don’t want there to be any 38 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

BOTTOM: Capital Area Food Bank stocks storage shelves with donations from food drives and individual donors.

summer programs all over the city.

“People aren’t aware of how much the school infrastructure provides a safety net around children. They may live with a single parent who works a lot and there isn’t much food in the household. So we have expanded to put programs into parks and recreation programs,” says Roman. CAFB provides food assistance to more

than 150 partner agencies, 14 kids’ afterschool programs, and 21 kids’ summer programs in the District.

Reaping the Benefits

Approximately 10 miles across the city, there is a community center next door to the historic Fredrick Douglass Home that hosts many of the neighborhood kids after school and

during the summer. The Frederick Douglass Community Center provides a summer enrichment program for elementary school aged children to come to during the day.

In Ward 8, it is estimated that 49% of the children live in poverty so it is critical that any program that will host children all day offer free meals. Wanda Flibbonds, Site Director for the Community Center, says the meals provided by the center, like the weekend bags, help families get by during the rough times. “Parents rely on those bags. Kids may not want to take it home. They’ll call me and say ‘if my child doesn’t want to bring that bag home, call me. I’ll come get it.”

tions of Public Benefits in the District of Columbia. The report asserted that lost applications and recertification documents, inaccurate information and long wait times have interrupted SNAP benefits for families across the city. And while caseworkers and clients struggle with paperwork blunders, food becomes more and Capital Area Food Bank volunteer moves produce to the cooler area. more scarce in households.

Wards 7 and 8 are often decried for beChelsea Sharon, Staff Attorney at Legal ing food insecure areas with little promise Aid Society says there are several possibiliof change. Having the Capital Area Food Bank supply food for programs such as the ties for why paperwork isn’t processed in a timely manner. “Families experience many Frederick Douglass Community Center has barriers to getting and keeping public benbeen a welcomed ‘blessing’ that fills in the efits like SNAP. The report shows some gaps. “The meals and weekend bags help of these reasons include: long lines at serparents because between shopping times vice centers that require families to choose things may get tight and those bags usually between getting and keeping benefits and has something in it to help stretch a meal. getting and keeping their jobs; language acTuna fish, snack bars, soup, etc. A lot of cess problems; paperwork that is lost or not them appreciate it.” FDCC also offers supprocessed in a timely manner; and difficulty per meals during the school year in their afreceiving accurate information from governterschool program. ment agencies.” It can be a frustrating process. When charity runs out and relatives are A paper trail to nowhere tapped out, what will the children eat while What’s the hold up for food for families their parents are waiting for application apin poverty? Government programs supple- proval? ment household budgets so parents can It seems unlikely that things will change spend less of their money on food. So why for the better in the future. Last fall, Conwould children be hungry? One obstacle gress voted to cut $39 billion dollars from that impedes progress is processing forms the SNAP budget over the next ten years. for SNAP benefit.

Reduction in benefits undoubtedly means According to the DC Human Services a dire need for more food assistance, more Economic Security Administration, in fiscal educational opportunities, job training and year 2011 alone over 135,000 DC residents help with financial literacy so that families benefited from SNAP. Hundreds of ap- can achieve independence. plications are received and processed every For more information about the Capital month. DC Fiscal Policy Institute and the Area Food Bank and how you can donate or Legal Aid Society of the District of Colum- volunteer, visit www.capitalareafoodbank.org. bia published a report in May 2014 entitled Closing the Gap Between Policy and Reality: Candace Y.A. Montague is the health reporter Preventing Wrongful Denials and Termina- for Capital Community News. u

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EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 39

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Introducing Students to App Development Deloitte and WOLCF Make an Impact at Hart Middle School

O

written and photo by Charnice A. Milton

n the morning of June 6th, the seventh graders of Charles Hart Middle School arrived at the ground-floor math lab to work with blue-shirted volunteers from Deloitte Consulting, LLC. Their assignment was to propose a new app to help them manage social and educational issues. While the volunteers were participating in their annual IMPACT Day, it was thanks to a partnership with the William O. Lockridge Community Foundation (WOLCF) that the students have this opportunity.

A group of Charles Hart Middle School students put the finishing touches on their app. The program, “What if There Was an App for That?” was a collaboration between Deloitte Consulting, LLC and the William O. Lockridge Community Foundation.

Impact Day

According to Deloitte’s website, the company promotes volunteerism as a part of business. “We offer flexible scheduling, and recognize and reward our volunteers for their efforts,” it said. “It’s a culture of volunteerism you won’t find everywhere.” To that end, every year Deloitte closes its nationwide offices so that its employees can participate in community-based service projects. “Since 2005, an estimated 1.5 million lives have been impacted by the volunteer efforts of Deloitte professionals on IMPACT Day,” stated a press release for the event. “This year, with a special focus on veterans and education-focused projects, volunteers have the opportunity to participate in more than 800 volunteer events in over 80 U.S. Communities.”

Partnerships

Kimberly Corley, an associate director at Deloitte, has already made 40 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

an impact in communities east of the Anacostia River as WOLCF Program Development and Scholarship chair since last fall. “In discussing what we can do this year to...give our kids more opportunities, she shared IMPACT Day with us,” said WOLCF founder and executive director, Wanda Lockridge.

During a competitive proposal process, WOLCF members aimed to create a project that would make

an impact on the students, yet be simple to operate.

For instance, Lockridge originally wanted to work with three schools for the project; however, logistics forced the foundation to choose one school. They chose Hart as the pilot school since WOLCF has a long-standing relationship with the school, most recently sending a small group of students to Africa over Christmas

break. Lockridge and Corley presented the idea to Hart principal Bill Kearney between January and February. “It’s a great educational opportunity, the whole concept of designing an application,” he said of the project. “Social media is all the rage with our students, so I know that this is something that would grab their attention and help them get their creative juices flowing in a positive way.”

Three Issues

The student-created apps addressed one of three topics: bullying, school lunch, and homework. Of the three, bullying seemed to have the most direct impact on the students. “Kids have committed suicide from being bullied, and with this whole internet thing...you don’t even have to bully each other face-to-face,” said Lockridge. She hopes that the project helps students find new ways to confront the issue. With school lunches, Lockridge hopes that students learn how to make better health decisions. “If you look around Ward 8, you’ll see Popeye’s and carry-outs almost on every corner,” she explained. “We need to let our kids know that’s not all you can put in your body.” Finally, with homework help, students found ways to make the process more manageable. “We have to make sure our kids know the importance of education, expanding your knowledge base and your skill set. Exposure is one way to do it,” Lockridge explained. “But, if you can give our kids opportunities to think any way, as often as they can, about education, it’s key.”

The Project

Corely stated the project is a brainstorming exercise. “We only have a day here at the school, so we don’t have the time to do all the technology,” she explained. During two sessions, the students were separated into groups of five with two volunteer leaders. Each group received an iPhone poster mock-up with removable icons to help them create apps focusing on one of the three topics. “The focus of this is... around exposing them to technology,” Corely explained, “But really, it’s about creative brainstorming; thinking creatively about how to solve problems.”

The project also included a contest to see which group would create the best app. After an hour and a half of planning and designing, each group presented their apps to their classmates, Deloitte volunteers and

a panel of judges. Mark Jones, president and Ward 5 representative for the DC State Board of Education, served as one of the judges during the afternoon session. “I just want to see innovation. I hope something catches me by surprise and is applicable,” he said of his judging criteria. “That’s basically what I look for in apps: stuff that is applicable to our everyday lives that make things relevant.” The winners received iTunes gift cards.

A Volunteer Speaks

“I didn’t know if the kids would be engaged by the topic of application development,” said Alvil Singh, a software developer. “But, you expect some kids to be really excited...either on the art side or on the creative side.” However, he found the students to be extremely engaged.

“One student in our group started off quiet,” he explained. “But once it got to the artistic aspect, she was completely engaged.” In fact, she gave the presentation that earned her team second place during the morning contest. “We didn’t tell them there was an iTunes gift card [prize] in the beginning,” he said.

“It took their excitement to another level.”

A Possible Future

Considering the project a success, Corely and Lockridge hope to do it again next year. “If we are able to do this next year, I would hope to expand it to other schools,” said Lockridge, “I would hope that we’d get more volunteers from Deloitte.

I don’t know if we could get outside volunteers, but if we could, I would certainly incorporate and encourage that as well.” Corely also hopes to expand the project; however, she believes that this could become a permanent program. “That’s one of the things Deloitte encourages,” she explained. “Don’t just do it one time, but establish a long-term relationship with an organization and try to be impactful.” u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 41

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Pathways to Empowerment

DC Government Agencies and Organizations Celebrate Father’s Day

by Charnice A. Milton

O

n June 13, Mayor Vincent Gray spoke to the crowd gathering at the Turkey Thicket Recreational Center. His speech, “A Salute to Fatherhood,” is fitting since Father’s Day was two days away. “Part of being a successful parent is having both parents providing for their children,” he said. “Unfortunately, the perception all too often is that fathers often are not involved in the lives of their children.” However, organizations such as Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the United Planning Organization (UPO) as well multiple DC government agencies are using their resources to change that perception.

One way they do this is through the annual two-day Pathways to Empowerment program.

The Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative

The event was inspired by the national Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative. In 2010, President Barack Obama announced the initiative during a Father’s Day event. “This is a call to action with cities and states, with individuals and organizations across the country -- from the NFL Players Association to the National PTA, to everyday moms and dads,” he said.

“We’re raising awareness about responsible fatherhood and working to re-engage absent fathers with their families.” As part of the initiative, President Obama invited organizations to create programs to promote responsible fatherhood; one of those organizations was Omega Psi Phi. “Every level of the Fraternity, particularly at the chapter level, is expected to play an active role in support and partnership with the Presi42 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

women, then what are you really doing?” he asked. “You’re not really living; you’re just out here existing.”

Why Fatherhood is Important?

Mayor Vincent Gray speaks at the fourth annual “Pathways to Empowerment” program. The two-day event aimed to celebrate and strengthen relationships between fathers and their children. Photo Credit: DCHA

dent’s White House Fatherhood, Mentoring Initiative and actively engage in the promotion of the Fraternity’s Fatherhood Mentoring initiative,” stated a Omega Psi Phi “call to action.”

“Pathways to Empowerment was created with this goal in mind.

We decided to partner with the DC Department of Health, HUD, the Housing Authority, and other organizations to put on this event each year,” said Robert Fairchild, Omega Psi Phi’s International Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative chair.

The Event

The two-day event began on June 13 with the Healthy DC Dad Celebration, which provided men with information about health, housing, and employment. Hosted by radio personality Justine Love, the program also featured appearances from the Mayor, WPGC 95.9 personality DJ Flexx and Ron Ashford, HUD’s

director of public housing and supportive services. “We’ve asked housing authorities across the country to sponsor a Father’s Day event,” he explained. “We think that Father’s Day events are events that can bring fathers and children together.”

The next day was a Celebration of Youth, in which young men discussed their concerns and what the community can do to support them. Among the day’s speakers were NFL player Joshua Morgan and Air Force’s Vice Chief of Staff General Larry Spencer. As DC natives who grew up east of the Anacostia River, both Morgan and Gen. Spencer look for ways to support their communities. “Fathers can be role models for their kids,” said Gen. Spencer. “It doesn’t have to be something big and spectacular; it’s just setting a good example and doing what you can to contribute.” Morgan, a new father himself, stressed the need for more father figures in the community. “If you are not helping these kids become better men and

Throughout the weekend, speakers reflected on the importance of fatherhood. “My father wasn’t in the house, so the streets raised me,” Lamont Carey said. “And in the streets, they define manhood as something else: it’s stackin’ money.”

As a result, he was incarcerated at age 16. “In the prison cell, I discovered that my definition of what made me a man was twisted and confused,” he explained. “And if I stayed with that definition of manhood, prison was going to be my future.”

After leaving prison, Carey became a father. “That is the most terrifying and most enjoyable experience I ever had,” he said. However, there were times where he felt that he did not deserve to be a father, despite becoming a noted spoken-word artist.

So, Carey decided to do things with his son that he never did, like feeding ducks on the National Mall and visiting museums. “The main thing that I know that I wanted to do was save his life,” he said. “And by saving his life, I knew that I have to be able to save mine.” This included changing his perception of himself and create his own opportunities, including starting his own company. “To me, fatherhood is a weapon,” Carey summarized. “If you’re there...you’ll protect them from everything. If you’re not there, it leaves them vulnerable.”

For those who made mistakes, he advised, “You don’t have to discard your past to be a better person. You have to figure out how to use what you know to make your future better.” u

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 43

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Four Women

written and photos by Twyla Alston

TOP: Jade watching April preparing chili corn. | BOTTOM: Alexis setting the table.

I

arrived at the contemporary Anacostia home to cook with two sisters, April and Alexis Goggans, and Jade, April’s sixteen year old daughter. Looking at the three is like peering into three subtle shifts of a kaleidoscope. April is a steady and vivacious force laying the space open with her personal power and fervor. Alexis brings both vibrant pops of imaginative energy as well as amazing liberty with color that a home requires.

Jade is a warm and receptive flow of gentle brilliance. The kitchen in their home seems to be a place of giving, receiving and sharing traditions.

Although living in DC, when in the kitchen these women are also at home in Colorado with the fourth woman, Antonia “Toni” Goggans--April and Alexis’ mom. The history of their kitchen begins with two girls wrapped in the arms of a “Phenomenal Woman.”

One Woman—Two Arms

Toni and her husband Anthony (also Tony) moved from Los Angeles and the Bronx respectively to Colorado Springs, CO where they met and married. Antonia worked as a corporate HR professional and Anthony as an executive recruiter. When life in Colorado Springs began to feel too much like the city, the Goggans moved their four children (ages 3-12) to the rural town of Falcon for more land and a slower pace. Alexis shares that at their new ranch home, her father built a barn with his own hands.

Learning to Cook

When April was in 7th grade, her mother began to teach her to cook, and thus healp out by preparing meals for the family.

Given her parent’s long commute “I was the first one home,” April explained. Toni taught her to prepare a solid battery of three to five-step dishes: stir-fry, cream of mushroom casserole, spaghetti, and crockpot dishes. Taco night was a family favorite.

April described lining up her three siblings on a kitchen bench for meals on weeknights all the way through high school.

April married just after graduating high school and began a family soon after. She found herself returning quickly to the duty of cooking for her family. She eventually developed an attitude that cooking was “a job that had to be done.”

Alexis finds the Joy of Cooking

Alexis was five years old when they moved to the ranch. Her stories of life raising farm animals for the county fair were “like a scene from Charlotte’s Web,” she chuckled.

“People are always surprised to hear that when I grew up, we had llamas.”

Although only a first grader, she remembers her mother holding her near 44 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

while extending this wholesome form of caring for her family into the kitchen. “I was my mom’s little helper,“ she said. She described being an eager observer of her mother’s pride in cooking and always wanting to be able to do more. She gravitated towards the joy people often experience when cooking is a special occasion.

As the children grew older she described her siblings all having small roles in cooking for special occasions. “One child made the monkey bread each time,” she shared. By college Alexis had learned some preparations from a far, but mostly felt comfortable cooking breakfast.

Once in college studying Environmental History in undergrad and later earning a Master’s in Sustainability, she realized meat had become the centerpiece of her diet. She experimented with the colors and textures of many vegetables, and grew to love vegetarian dishes.

LEFT: Complete taco ensemble with family favorite, Jarritos Soda.

Above: Jade, Alexis and April getting ready to enjoy taco night.

Two Arms, One Young Woman

April is now the proud and focused mom of 16-year-old Jade. Her food journey combined with her professional education as a Clinical Sociologist led her to see food as a necessary evil in a sense. She often ate out or opted for prepared and processed foods due to the typical exhaustion associated with being a single parent.

Two years ago when Alexis moved to Washington, DC to live with April, she brought with her a wealth of environmental knowledge and several years of vegetarian eating experience. Being a single woman she eats and experiments with whatever tastes she fancies. Although she now eats some meats, she describes being a bit of a drill sergeant in the kitchen when it comes to including fresh and unprocessed foods in each meal. Her reach toward her niece—Jade—embodies the joy of growing to love food in its many facets and her care for her vibrancy inside and out.

From the spirit of a nurturer (Antonia) flows both joy (to April) and responsibility (to Alexis) to lavish upon Jade. She is the recipient of this nurturing spirit reconciled through four “Phenomenal Women.”

Goggans Family Taco Night

For taco night the Goggans suggest browning, draining and seasoning ground turkey or beef with your favorite taco kit. For accompaniments select your favorite shredded cheeses, vegetables and sauces. Instead of using lettuce, the Goggans use fresh cilantro for a richer southwestern flavor.

Holy Moly Guacamole

4 semi-soft avocados (unbruised) ½ lime (juiced) ¼ cup finely chopped red onion Salt and garlic powder to taste Optional: diced tomato Cut four avocados in half (long way) and scoop out ‘meat’ with a spoon. Smash avocado meat until slightly lumpy. Add chopped red onions and mix until evenly distributed. Squeeze ½ slice of lime over avocado mixture and then season with salt and garlic powder to taste.

Pico de Gallo, on the Flyo

⅓ cup cilantro (finely chopped) ¼ white onion (diced) 2 vine-ripened tomatoes (diced) ½ lime (juiced) 1 teaspoon green chili pepper sauce Combine all the ingredients and then chill covered for at least 20 minutes. For added spice add 1 tablespoon finely chopped jalapeno pepper (seeds removed).

Mango Coconut Rice Delight

3 mangoes (peeled and cut into ¾” cubes-- chilled) 4 cups of vanilla coconut milk (light or regular) ⅓ cup of sugar 1 cup of water 2 cups of rice 1 teaspoons of vanilla extra (optional)

In a 4 quart pot, add two cups of rice with 1 cup and 2 cups of vanilla coconut milk. If adding more vanilla it should be stirred in at this point.

Cover and bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Reduce the heat to low and cook until rice is soft (apprx 20 minutes). Add the sugar, remaining coconut milk and mix well over low simmering pot for 10 mins. The sauce will thicken.

Place the cooled mango slices on top of the coconut rice, and season with ground nutmeg.

Dish can be served warm, or cold.

Twyla Alston is a writer, artist, minister, and I.T. manager, passionate about food, gardening, technology, and community development. She resides in Ward 8 with her husband and two children. u EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 45

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Mayor for Life: The Incredible Story of Marion Barry, Jr. Barry’s Life in His Own Words

by John Muller

M

arion Barry has finally published his autobiography in an effort to vindicate his decades of public service in Washington which include his four terms as Mayor and current position as Ward 8 Councilmember. Co-written with urban fiction novelist Omar Tyree, throughout Mayor For Life: The Incredible Story of Marion Barry, Jr. (Strebor Books; $25, hardback, 325 pgs., no index or notes) the enduring and oft-repeated theme is that Barry is a fighter whose entire life has been about defying the odds and assisting others in an effort to achieve “big dreams.” Unfortunately, as Barry laments, “Most people don’t know me. They don’t know my work ethic, and don’t know me as a person. …

More white people, and some black people, only remember me from the Vista Hotel some twenty years ago.”

For residents of Ward 8, where Barry has served as council member since 2005, he is no distant stranger and has recently demonstrated his days fighting for the underdog may have come to an end. The evening before his book’s release, Barry attended a public hearing on Barry Farm’s Planned Unit Development before the Zoning Commission where he spoke in favor of the PUD. During his testimony he mentioned the pending release of his book which drew a smattering of jeers from a room crowded with anxious residents of Barry Farm. Following his testimony, Barry sat down in the front row with members of the develop46 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

ment team, which upset some residents. Weeks before Barry spoke at the Mayor’s Agent Hearing on the Department of Housing and Development’s appeal on the proposed development of the Big K lot. In both instances Barry’s support of the development was at odds with organized community opposition.

Mayor for Life

The names and accomplishments of 19th century Washington mayors

Robert Brent, Peter Force, Richard Wallach and Sayles Bown have been forgotten today. Washingtonians born in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s recall the presidentially appointed three-member Board of Commissioners which had governed the city since the 1870s. In June 1967 President Lyndon Johnson introduced a plan to reorganize the city’s government. Johnson, in his message to Congress, said the city government was “neither effective nor efficient.”

At this time Johnson appointed Wal-

ter Washington, a city housing director, as the first modern mayor of the nation’s capital. By 1973, Congress enacted Home Rule and the next year elections for mayor and city council members were held.

In 1974 Marion Barry, a transplant from Mississippi and Tennessee who came to Washington in the mid1960s amongst a wave of student activists, was elected an at-large member of the City Council following his service to the city’s Board of Education. In 1978 Barry defeated Walter Washington to become the second modern Mayor and first prominent civil-rights activist to become chief executive of a major city. Barry won re-election in 1982 and 1986 and subsequently earned the title of “Mayor for Life,” from a reporter for the Washington City Paper. Beloved by the majority of the people of Washington, but increasingly under pressure from multiple investigations by federal prosecutors who sought to incriminate him of drug use, Barry was set-up in a downtown hotel and arrested for drug possession on January 18, 1990. Overnight Barry became known throughout the entire world when newspapers headlined reports of his arrest.

After serving a six-month jail term Barry returned to Washington and in 1992 defeated incumbent Wilhelmina Rolark to serve as the Ward 8 City Council member. Barry used Ward 8 as a springboard to run against incumbent Mayor Sharon Pratt Kelly in 1994. Being the

“Mayor for Life,” Barry defeated Kelly in the Democratic primary and Republican Carol Schwartz in the general election to win a fourth term as mayor.

Barry explains, “I wanted to be an example that we can fall down from great heights and still get back up again to uplift more people. I wanted my fourth term as mayor to be inspirational.” Upon taking office in January 1995, Barry quickly learned the city was running a deficit in the hundreds of millions.

Congress formed the District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority, more commonly known as the Control Board, to oversee the city’s finances, in effect stripping the city council and mayor of budget autonomy. Although Barry saw a need for “programs and money for public safety, health care and security for the elderly … money became the biggest issue for everything.”

In an effort to regain the confidence of Congress and Wall Street Barry hired Anthony Williams, who had been Chief Financial Officer at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, to manage the city’s finances. Williams, now the CEO of the Federal City Council, would succeed Barry as Mayor and serve two terms from 1999 to 2007.

In Chapter 18, “Back To Service,” Barry gives a brief account of his return to the Ward 8 council position. Alleging that a stint as a reading tutor at Savoy Elementary School prompted Barry to “answer the call to return to public office,” he challenged incumbent Sandy Allen in 2004. Winning 58 percent of the vote in the democratic primary and 91 percent in the general election, Barry says he promptly got to work . “I jumped right back in the fold with budget proposals for 10,000 new units of housing in Ward 8, and better education facilities and more jobs for the people in the area.”

Not everyone, Barry admits, was pleased to see his reappearance. “Of course, when I returned to public office as a council member for Ward 8, some people didn’t like it, but I

didn’t care if they didn’t like it. It made some of the council members and politicians nervous because of my voice and experience.”

Some on the ground questioned the convenience of Barry representing Ward 8. “After serving the District in office as the mayor for sixteen years, some people found it hypocritical for me to criticize the city government about so many inequalities in Ward 8. Some of these detractors claimed that the same inequalities occurred for Ward 8 when I was the mayor. But I didn’t see the problem with me instigating and advocating changes at all.”

While credit must be given to Barry for getting his story out before it is too late, Mayor for Life is a rather limited and fleeting account of his truly unduplicated life. The conversational tone of the book will ring true to anyone who has heard Barry attend community meetings in recent years where he jumps around before making his point which is often more reliant on generalities than specifics. Organized in 20 chronological chapters, Mayor for Life gives readers the impression this is the Barry they already know; the Barry who yearns for a closer connection to his only son, makes no apology about forgetting to file taxes for a number of years and is confident he transformed the lives and fortunes of thousands upon thousands of Washingtonians.

Explaining the title of the book, Barry writes, “Everything I did in government in Washington was for the benefit of the common people; that’s why they continued to vote for me. I didn’t force myself on anyone. It was all a democratic process.

So I never liked the reference of being the ‘Mayor for Life.’ However, once people started using it, over time they were able to bring a positive light to it where I could accept it. I didn’t have a choice anyway, because they kept using it.”

On Thursday, July 10th, at 6:30pm Barry will be at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, 901 G Street NW, to discuss his new book in the Great Hall. u

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www.larrysweetcorn.com EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 47

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Love and Baseball

Pitch Black Describes Baseball And Much More

by Stephen Lilienthal

G

rowing up in southeast DC, Christine Turner Jackson enjoyed the stable family life that had eluded her father. Benjamin Turner’s experiences are common for all too many DC kids--fractured family relationships, rivalries among peers, moving often, adjusting to new households, schools and neighborhoods.

Yet Benjamin Turner succeeded.

The reason why is detailed in his daughter’s self-published Young Adult novel, Pitch Black, which describes DC in the early 1950s when Major League Baseball had just integrated and segregation in DC was approaching its end. Many teens can identify with the problems facing Benjamin, but older Washingtonians may find Pitch Black worth reading because it recalls mid-20th Century DC life.

A Family Affair

Sitting in a Benning Road restaurant on a Saturday morning, Jackson is enthusiastic when talking about her family and her book. Benjamin Turner is present too.

Watching her father play softball was a constant in Christine’s youth.

Benjamin worked as a forensic nurse at Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital. When studying nursing, he met his wife and Jackson’s mother, Hattie, later an employee at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

Jackson says her family life was “stable.” They were one of the first African American families to move into their neighborhood and her mother and father, married 51 years, remain there.

Active parents, however, were lacking in young Benjamin’s life while growing up on a street that was located on what is now a Nationals Stadium parking lot. Back then, as Jackson writes in Pitch Black, Southwest ranked among DC’s most hard48 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

scrabble neighborhoods.

An important message in Jackson’s book is that, despite both parents missing from young Benjamin’s life, his grandfather and uncles provided guidance and love.

Benjamin’s grandfather, a good baseball player when young, is aging but has an affectionate relationship with his grandson in part due to their shared love of baseball. “Unc,” one of Benjamin’s uncles (based on the living Benjamin’s uncle, Winston Turner, a respected DC educator who served a term in the 1970s as president of the National Association of Elementary School Principals) emphasizes the importance of academics. Uncle Bump, a fictional former Negro League baseball player, younger and more relaxed than Unc, also helps Benjamin to mature. (Uncle Bump was based on the real-life Benjamin’s uncle, Lloyd Turner, a semi-pro ballplayer.)

Uncertainty confronts Benjamin throughout Pitch Black as he confronts problems ranging from racism to obnoxious rival players. Not every event described in Pitch Black matches actual occurrences in her father’s life since the book is fiction, but Jackson strives to capture the feel of the times.

The real-life Benjamin was a notable baseball player for Cardozo High School, and his 1953 Purple Wave yearbook entry lists his ambition to be a “baseball player.” Indeed, a story published in the June 3, 1952 Washington Afro-American, his junior year, describing Cardozo’s 1-0 victory over Dunbar credits “the diminutive righthander” for firing a “sinker” that “gave Dunbar considerable trouble throughout the contest.”

A professional baseball career never developed for the real-life Benjamin, but he did go on to serve in the Navy, where he did play baseball, and, together with his wife, provide an or-

Christine Turner Jackson

derly family life for his daughter.

The Story Behind The Story

“Perseverance” and “persistence” define how the real-life and fictionalized Benjamins overcome their troubles. But that description also describes the qualities Jackson drew upon in writing and publishing Pitch Black.

Jackson’s interest in writing started as a young child and as a student at George Washington University she took a class in children’s literature.

Then, while working as a senior risk consultant at the US Department of Education, she took a correspondence course in writing. Pitch Black was her writing project. The writing proved to be slow, chapter by chapter, but eventually she finished.

Keeping in mind the problems of reluctant readers, Turner wrote Pitch Black at a sixth grade reading level.

Tanya Callender, Learning Center Director for the US Dream Academy, which serves Baltimore’s high pov-

erty Park Heights neighborhood, had children read Pitch Black and then discuss it. They identified with how Benjamin persevered despite facing obstacles similar to theirs.

Next Up

Since the book’s publication last spring, Jackson has been marketing Pitch Black as much as she can given the demands of her day job.

Benjamin lets his daughter take centerstage during the interview. He is a quiet man unless talking baseball.

Remarking about her interviews with him, Jackson says, “The little bit that I was able to get, I got a lot out of it.”

So much so that she is already considering more books including a sequel to Pitch Black. Stay tuned....

Stephen Lilienthal is a freelance writer.

Pitch Black is available through online booksellers and Jackson’s website: pitchblack.info/. It will soon be available through the DC Public Library. u

True Colors

Collaboration Between Author and Artist Brings Gift to Passersby

by Stephen Lilienthal

B

efore last summer, Courtney Davis’ backyard, adjacent to an alley just off Good Hope looked like any other. But if you know Courtney Davis, you know that there is a lot more zest in her approach to life than her backyard would have suggested.

Long intent on beautifying the space, she decided to fulfill a long-held dream and commission a mural. She took to Facebook and soon a friend, local storyteller Jessica Smith, connected her to artist Chanel Compton, who could make Davis’ vision a reality.

Davis: Revealing Her Dream

Courtney Davis (left) and Chanel Compton. Photos: Stephen Lilienthal

Davis, a special education administrator in the DC Public School system, has lived in southeast DC for approximately a decade.

She is well known to many in Anacostia for her children’s book, A is for Anacostia, that shows youngsters there is plenty to be proud of in Anacostia. Davis also served as coordinator of the first Annual East of the River Book Festival and created the www. lifeintheana.com website and manages its event calendar.

Just as Davis uses writing and books to promote a positive vision of southeast DC, Compton uses art to help to heal and to empower kids and the disenfranchised.

Compton, the Program Director for the Prince George’s County had early ambitions to be an artist growing up in Connecticut. “I’ve always been interested in art.

I don’t remember wanting to do anything else.” Receiving encouragement from her family to pursue art as a career, Compton studied art at Rutgers and came to DC to obtain her master’s degree in arts management. Knowing little about the DC arts scene at first, she became “enmeshed” in it by helping to organize the murals commemorating noted Harlem Renaissance writer Zora Neale Hurston that grace the Eatonville Restaurant on 14th Street, NW. Compton cites Albus Cavus, a collective of artists dedicated to art projects that invite participation from the community and which promotes community change, as inspiring her work.

Art, she believes, makes people feel good because they express their thoughts and feelings. Making public art is better in that not only do the creators “leave a visual mark on the world, they are provid-

ing a service to enhance a neighborhood or school.” That makes the creators feel very good. Plus, murals can “heal” communities by beautifying it and historical references can impart pride.

Compton asserts, “I’ve seen ...how this collective art making process can make individuals more confident, more creative, and more thoughtful.”

Overseeing a mural painted by students at the Perry School, she recalls the effort they put into researching art and murals, then creating the mural at the Father McKenna Center which serves the homeless. The kids had not had this creative type of outlet in school.

The Mural

Davis requested a theme exploring childhood. She was interested in having neighborhood kids participate in the painting, but other summer activities precluded the children from participating. Compton would have welcomed it. “If I work with younger people who may not have artistic experience, I’ll usually do the design first, and they fill in the color.”

After looking over the space Davis wanted the mural to be placed, and discussing the theme and possible colors, Compton developed a mockup of the mural.

Then, she went to work. Within a few days, the mural was installed. It’s large enough for the public to see and it helps to beautify the alley to passersby.

ANC 8A 04 Commissioner Charles E. Wilson who also serves as President of the River East Emerging Leaders, concurs. He considers the mural a testament to Davis’ imagination and Compton’s artistic ability. “I remember seeing it for the first time and thought it added a unique flavor to the house. It really fits the personality of the homeowner and it adds an open, friendly atmosphere to the backyard.”

Stephen Lilienthal is a freelance writer. u

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 49

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

Anacostia Community Museum Holds a Summer Soirée

by Charnice A. Milton

O

n June 6, the Smithsonian Castle was transformed into a dance hall. As visitors entered, they enjoyed music from the 3rd Generation Band, a group that played until recently at the now-closed Channel Inn Engine Room. At 7:10 p.m., Camille Akeju, the Anacostia Community Museum’s (ACM) director, welcomed the guests to the Summer Soirée, a new event celebrating “... the diverse, culturally rich communities that make up Washington, DC.” The event was also a chance to raise funds and awareness of the museum and its programs.

The Event

While holding a fund-raising event is nothing new for ACM and its advisory board, it is the first time they held one at the Castle. “We do a major formal sit-down dinner every five years, on our milestone anniversaries like the 40th, the 45th, and we’ll do another big one on the 50th, ” said Akeju.

“For the off years, we try to keep the

price affordable so that our core constituents can afford to come.” Usually, that means holding luncheons at the National Press Club; however, the advisory board decided to do something different to attract new audiences. As a member of the Smithsonian Institution, ACM has access to the Castle.

“So, we decided to try a new format,” Akeju explained. “Rather than have a sit-down luncheon or dinner, to have a more celebratory atmosphere.”

News4 Today anchors Aaron Gilchrist and Eun Yang, co-chairs of the host committee, served as the master and mistress of ceremonies.

“This event, as you look around, is all about good food, having fun, good partying and supporting this museum and celebrating all those iconic things that make the DC metropolitan area a special place to live and to work,” said Gilchrist. This included a hand-dancing contest (as the form is the city’s official dance), a Southerninspired menu, and a silent auction featuring art from local artists, as well as items from News4, the Washing-

(L-R) NBC 4 News Anchors Eun Yang and Aaron Gilchrest, emcees for the Anacostia Community Museum’s June 6, 2014 Summer Soiree, lead the crowd in the “wooble” dance at the event held at the Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall. Photo: Susana Raab/ Anacostia Community Museum

50 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

(L-R) Ubuhle exhibition curator Bev Gibson, ACM Director Camille Akeju, Smithsonian Secretary G. Wayne Clough, visiting South African artists, Ntombephi Ntobela, and Zandile Ntobela, are all smiles at the museum’s June 6, 2014 Summer Soiree at the Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall.

Photo: Susana Raab, Anacostia Community Museum

ton Redskins, and other organizations and businesses.

Special Awards

The event also celebrated two of the museums biggest supporters. G. Wayne Clough, the 12th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, received the Anacostia Community Museum Special Recognition Award for his seven years of leadership. “Wayne’s enthusiasm for the Smithsonian Institution is infectious,” said Akeju in her presentation. “Actually, watching him is like watching a kid in a candy store. He loves it here.” Akeju stated that ACM was the first museum Secretary Clough visited at the beginning of his tenure. “He noticed us from the beginning and has supported us this entire time.” Secretary Clough,

who will retire at the end of the year, thanked ACM and the advisory board saying, “It’s an honor that you would recognize me this way and it’s very special to me to be recognized by this museum, one that I am so incredibly proud of and I’m certainly proud of its leadership and the board’s work for this museum.”

The second award of the night, the John R. Kincaid Leadership in Community Service Award went to DCbased artist and former advisory board member Sam Gilliam. “I first encountered his creative genius in the early 1970s while I was a student in the Howard University College of Fine Arts,” said Akeju, who counts Gilliam as a mentor. “I remember this quiet, thoughtful man whose draped canvas paintings became my personal refuge as I often sat beneath them when they

The 3rd Generation rocked the crowd with lead singer Tiya at the Anacostia Community Museum’s June 6, 2014 Summer Soiree held at the Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall.

Susana Raab/Anacostia Community Museum.

Photo: Photo: Susana Raab/ Anacostia Community Museum

were on exhibit in the College gallery.” While Gilliam could not accept the award in person due to health issues, Bennie Johnson, chair of the advisory board’s fund-raising committee, did so on Gilliam’s behalf.

Promoting the Museum

While the night was focused celebrating the city’s culture, it was also about celebrating ACM’s accomplishments. For instance, the artists behind one of the museum’s current exhibits, “Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence,” made an appearance during their first trip to the United States; in the week afterward, they completed a series of talks and demonstrations. Also, Secretary Clough pointed out that ACM’s exhibit, “Reclaiming the Edge: Urban Waterways and Civic Engagement,” became the foundation of the institution-wide Urban Waterways Project.

“This is just a slice and a sample of the diversity in programming,” said Eugene Kinlow, a Ward 8 resident whose wife Tonya Vidal Kinlow, serves on the advisory board. “We’re looking for more people to be involved.” He believes that the best way to get involved with ACM is experience it for oneself.

“People shouldn’t want the museum to come to them,” he said.

“You should want to find it out for yourself.” Anastasia Johnson, a third-generation Washingtonian and ACM volunteer, agreed with this sentiment: “This is a hidden jewel. The level of education and knowledge that this museum imparts to the community is priceless. Every church, every school, every senior center, and every homeowner’s group should make a point of visiting this museum at least once a year.”

The Anacostia Community Museum is located at 1901 Fort Place SE. It is open every day except December 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 202-633-4820 or visit anacostia. si.edu. u

READ ALL ABOUT IT! EastofthERivERDCNEws.com

202.236.0783 202.664.0168 www.anytimek9.com 900 M Street SE 1232 9th Street NW

NEW CLASSES STARTING SOON FUN WITH AGILITY starts July 8!

PRIMARY PAWS starting on July 16!

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 51

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

jazzAvenues

by Steve Monroe

Songbirds highlight July events

This July brings us a vocalists harvest with Integriti Reeves, Emy Tseng, Alison Crockett, Akua Allrich, Sharon Clark and Lori Williams highlighting the month’s performances.

Reeves, a hit during the Washington Women in Jazz Festival in March, has also drawn solid reviews for her recent debut recording, “Stairway to the Stars.” Reeves, a product of the Peabody Institute in Baltimore and Howard University’s graduate school, appears at the Hill Center July 10 with Elijah Jamal Balbed, tenor sax, Matvei Sigalov, guitar, Eliot Seppa, bass and Amin Gumbs, drums. See www.hillcenterdc.org for more information.

Tseng, now based in DC, has a background in classical music, and fell in love with jazz and Brazilian music in particular while studying in New York. Among others, she credits pianist Wayne Wilentz and bassist David Jernigan – who supported her fine show at Dukem Restaurant last month – for mentoring her since she moved to the area three years ago. Tseng is to appear at Black Fox Lounge July 11.

See www.emytseng.com.

Crockett, who appears at Westminster Presbyterian Church July 11, has fashioned a Diva Blue persona while delving into soulful jazz, jazzy soul and also social justice artistry with her recordings and recent one woman show, “Is This It? My American Dream.” At Westminster, she is to appear with sax man Marshall Keys, Wayne Wilentz, piano, Herman Burney, bass and John Lamkin III, drums.

See www.alisoncrockett.net.

Allrich is a D.C. native and Howard University graduate, whose last recording was “Uniquely Standard: Akua Allrich Live!” released in 2012. Allrich is known for often 52 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

D.C.’s own Akua Allrich, appearing July 18 at the Loew’s Madison Hotel, will perform her Nina Simone/Miriam Makeba tribute shows next month at Bohemian Caverns.

weaving a world music tapestry of vocal renderings, combining jazz, blues, African and other genres into compelling performances, with the ability to sing in many languages, including Portuguese, French, Spanish, Xhosa and Twi. She appears July 18 at Loew’s Madison Hotel. See www. akuaallrich.com.

Clark, at the Loew’s Madison July 19, is of course our reigning queen of divas, enlarging her presence nationally and internationally by making waves in New York club circles and during trips to perform in Russia and elsewhere in recent years.

Pianist Chris Grasso says she is at work now on another recording, after releasing “Do it Again: My Tribute to Shirley Horn” a few years ago. See www.chrisgrassomusic.com.

Lori Williams, appearing with Winard Harper at Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, has been a frequent performer at Westminster, Loew’s Madison Hotel and many other venues, and covers multiple genres in her vocals herself. Her stirring gospel-based performance that Sunday during the Mid-Atlantic

Jazz Festival in February was special.

Her most recent CD, “Eclipse of the Soul,” was released in 2012.

InPerson … Sakoto Fujii, WRO

The Sakoto Fujii Trio + 1 closed out the Transparent Productions 201314 season at Bohemian Caverns last month, with pianist Fujii leading the way on some edgy, winding, melodic runs, with Todd Nicholson, bass, Oshi Shutto, drums, and Kappa Maki on trumpet displaying darting, rapping, and spearing runs of their own for an entertaining set of provocative compositions.

When the house lights went down, the musicians on stage fired it up to the max late last month at the Lincoln Theatre when The Washington Renaissance Orchestra swung into Woody Shaw’s “Moontrane” for its opening number. Artistic director Nasar Abadey was a powerhouse all night with his pulsating percussion and musical director Allyn Johnson sprinkled in vintage ripples on piano while also conducting his bandmates in the group’s debut performance be-

fore an eager and appreciative crowd.

Highlights from opening night also included saxophonist Charlie Young’s melodic work on “Anna Maria,” vocalist Navasha Daya’s fine reading of “Sweet Kiss,” which also had a superb solo by tenor sax man Brian Settles; and rip-roaring riffs

by Settles and fellow sax man Elijah Balbed, creating their own tenor madness during Johnson’s “Freedom Warrior’s Suite.”

July Highlights: Tommy Cecil & Bill Mays “Sondheim Duos,” July 8, Blues Alley … Integriti Reeves, July 10, The Hill Center … Emy Tseng, July 11, Black Fox Lounge … Alison Crockett Experience, July 11, Westminster Presbyterian Church … Chuck Redd, July 12, Loew’s Madison Hotel … Chelsey Green, July 17, Reginald Lewis Museum/ Baltimore … Akua Allrich, July 18, Loew’s Madison Hotel … Jeff Antoniuk Update, July 18, Westminster … Greater U Street Collective, July 18-19, Twins Jazz … Lonnie Liston Smith, July 18-20, Bohemian Caverns … Sharon Clark, July 19, Loew’s Madison Hotel … Swing Shift, July 22, Blues Alley … Jimmy Haslip, MARS 4-Tet, July 22, Bethesda Blues & Jazz … Reginald Cyntje July 25-26, Twins Jazz … Winard Harper, Lori Williams, July 27, Bethesda Blues & Jazz …

July Birthdays: Rashied Ali 1; Ahmad Jamal 2; Johnny Hartman 3; Hank Mobley 7; Louis Jordan 8, Billy Eckstine, Lee Morgan 10; Albert Ayler 13; Philly Joe Jones 15; Cal Tjader 16; Chico Freeman 17; Sonny Clark 21; Billy Taylor 24; Johnny Hodges 25; Carl Grubbs 27; Charlie Christian 29; Hank Jones, Kenny Burrell 31. u

BEST HAPPY HOUR ON THE HILL!

CHANGING HANDS

Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month.

A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIs, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker ofямБce on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

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HILL CREST

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KINGMAN PARK 1629 ROSEDALE ST NE

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EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 53

2014

Pet Special

Capital Cats & Hill Hounds

Best Buddies (Pets) Loveliest

Libra (Shih Tzu) & Emma (Bichon Frise) “Inseparable!”

Submitted by Tiffany Foy

Ellie (Maine Coon Cat, 14 years old) Submitted by Olivia Fagon

Best Buddies (Human & Pet)

Mopsey (grey tabby) and Marcus - “We may be best buddies but I don’t want you sittin’ on me.”

Submitted by Crystal Banks

Funniest

this thing!”

Nekoe (Shiba Inu) - “Get my head out of n tma Submitted by Andrew Ligh

54 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

Most Laid Back

Byrd (Redbone Coonhound) “It’s a dog’s life.”

Submitted by Anne Willis

se)

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EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 55

KIDS & FAMILY

Kids & Family Notebook

by Kathleen Donner

Photo: Joan Marcus

Disney’s Lion King at the Kennedy Center

Winner of six Tonys including Best Musical, Disney’s The Lion King returns to the Kennedy Center Opera House this summer. With direction and costumes by Julie Taymor, Elton John and Tim Rice’s musical score brings the African Pridelands to life, featuring riveting performances of “Circle of Life” and many more great songs. Tickets are $40 and up. Performances run through Aug. 17 on Tuesdays-Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday, 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There will be no performance on July 4th. Visit kennedy-center.org for more information.

Showtime Tuesdays at THEARC

Showtime Tuesdays @ THEARC is a six week fun-filled source of entertainment for youth participating in summer camps in Southeast, Washington, DC. Children take part in literary activities and receive a health snack in addition to viewing a specially featured movie provided

by Capital One, BET Networks/Viacom and Walmart. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Pre-show activities commence at 10:15 a.m. and the movie begins promptly at 10:30 a.m. The schedule is as follows: Tuesday, July 8, EPIC; July 15: Disney’s Planes; July 22, Percy Jackson & Lightning Thief; July 29, Cloudy with a Chance of Meat56 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

balls 2; Aug. 5, Oz The Great & Powerful; and Aug. 12, Monsters University. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. Go to thearcdc.org for more information.

The program is held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Call 202-633-4844 to register. Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE. More information can be found at anacostia.si.edu.

Move This World (for youth) at Anacostia Community Museum

Community Leaders are Readers: The South African Spoken Word Tradition

On Friday, Aug. 1, performance troupe Move This World leads an interactive empowerment workshop based on the themes in the Ubuhle exhibition related to self-esteem, independence, and empowerment. The group uses gesturing and body movement as a platform for participants to attain a sense of self-worth and independence.

In conjunction with the exhibition Ubuhle Women: Beadwork and the Art of Independence, this special edition of “Community Leaders are Readers” focuses on South African languages. Local artist Akua Allrich talks about the tonal rhythms found in African speech patterns and their relationship to poetry and music. A participatory

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 57

KIDS & FAMILY New Teen Safe Driving Campaign Announced

The District of Columbia Department of Motor Vehicles has announced the launch of the Parent’s Supervised Driving Program, an innovative new program sponsored by Ford Motor Company and State Farm. The program is designed to prevent one of the major causes of death and injury for teens on the road and help them become safe and responsible drivers. This free tool optimizes the 50 hours of parental supervised driving required for the approximately 5,000 District of Columbia teens seeking learner’s permits each year. The guide is packed with information and lessons on driving basics, parental pointers, licensing qualifications, and even a Parent/Teen Agreement. The program is supplemented by the RoadReady mobile app that easily and accurately tracks the required supervised driving time. The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program is available to parents and guardians of teens on multiple platforms, beginning with the printed curriculum that is distributed at DC DMV Service Centers when the teen receives his or her learner’s permit.

Origami Nights at Francis A. Gregory Library Students from Moten Elementary School take a break from playing soccer

DC SCORES Jamboree at Anacostia Pa rk

On May 31, nearly 2,000 people attended the 19th Annual DC SCORES Jamboree! at Anacostia Park to celebrate the conclusion of the after-school program’s soccer and service-learning season. During an actionpacked day on a large expanse of grass, the 1,500 program participants representing 47 DC public and public charter schools played 178 soccer games. They also had the opportunity to engage in numerous other activities such as facepainting, writing colorful and creative stories with 826DC, practicing shooting accuracy with Penya Barcelonista, and making healthy yogurt parfaits with Revolution Foods. In addition, each participating school presented a service-learning project that bettered its community on a large, creative poster board. DC SCORES’ biggest event in the program’s 20-year history would not have been possible if not for the 150 volunteers who helped in varying capacities throughout the day. Go to DCSCORES.org to learn more. art workshop follows. Event is on Saturday, Aug. 2, 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call 202-633-4844 to register. Anacostia Neighborhood Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. Visit dclibrary.org/anacostia for more information.

“Buds” at the National Arboretum

On July 19 and August 16, 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m., children can enjoy stories, music, crafts, and discovery time, all focused on trees and nature, and all for free! The program is held at the National Arboretum in partnership with Casey Trees. Registration required by email to Sue Erhardt at serhardt@caseytrees.org. Call Casey Trees at 202-349-1903 for more information.

The National Arboretum is located at 3501 New York Ave. NE. 58 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

DC Diaper Bank Recycles Diaper Packaging for Cash

The DC Diaper Bank is keeping diaper packaging out of landfills and earning money at the same time. The diaper bank participates in the Diaper Packaging Brigade, a recycling partnership between Kimberly-Clark’s Huggies brand and recycling company TerraCycle. DC Diaper Bank staff collects the diaper packaging, and for each piece sent to TerraCycle, the diaper bank earns two points, which can be converted into cash. The DC Bank uses the money earned to pay utility bills and keep the bank running. The DC Bank will be accepting donations of diaper packaging from local community members at its warehouse and any of its Ambassador locations throughout the metro area. Locations can be found here.

Every Tuesday and Thursday at the Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library, Origami classes take place for children aged 7-12. Origami, the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative shapes and figures, is a fun way for children to learn about the Japanese culture and a different art form. Children make cranes, ties, frogs, foxes and whatever other designs they can come up with! The program is open to children of all levels. Francis A. Gregory Neighborhood Library, 3660 Alabama Ave. SE. 202-698-6373. Click here to visit the library’s website and learn more.

Discover the Moon Family Day! at Air and Space

The National Air and Space Museum will be hosting a variety of fun and educational activities celebrating Earth’s Moon on Friday July 25. The show will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. National Air and Space Museum, Independence Ave. at 6th St. SW. 202-633-2214. Visit airandspace.si.edu for more information.

The Uncle Devin Show at Dorothy I. Height/ Benning Library

On Monday, July 28, at 1:30 p.m., Uncle Devin will introduce children to the world of percussion and provide a brief history of various percussion instruments. Children will also learn rhymes that are easy to memorize. For ages 5-12. Dorothy I. Height/ Benning Neighborhood Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. 202-281-2583. Go to dclibrary.org/benning to learn more.

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 59

KIDS & FAMILY Fizz, Boom Read! Magic Show at Deanwood Library

On Friday, Aug. 8, at 11 a.m., Joe Romano answers the question “Is it Science or Magic?!” Children will witness a glass of water defy gravity, smoke rings fly over their heads, and more. For ages 5-12.

Deanwood Neighborhood Library, 1350 49th St. NE. 202-698-1175. More information can be found at dclibrary.org/deanwood.

New York Times YA Best Sellers

(1) THE FAULT IN OUR STARS, by John Green. (Penguin Group.) A 16-year-old heroine faces the medical realities of cancer. (Ages 14 and up) (2) IF I STAY, by Gayle Forman. (Penguin Group.) A young cellist falls into a coma after she suffers an accident. (Ages 12 and up) (3) LOOKING FOR ALASKA, by John Green. (Penguin Group.) A boy seeking excitement finds that and more when he meets a girl named Alaska. (Ages 14 to 17) (4) PAPER TOWNS, by John Green. (Penguin Group.) After a night of mischief, the girl Quentin loves disappears. (Ages 14 and up) (5) THE BOOK THIEF, by Markus Zusak.

(Knopf Doubleday Publishing.) A girl saves books from Nazi burning; now a movie. (Ages 14 and up) (6) AN ABUNDANCE OF KATHERINES,

by John Green. (Penguin Group.) Colin Singleton wants to break the pattern of being dumped. (Ages 12 and up) (7) MISS PEREGRINE’S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN, by Ransom Riggs.

(Quirk Books.) An island, an abandoned orphanage and a collection of curious photographs. (Ages 12 and up) (8) WHERE SHE WENT, by Gayle Forman.

(Penguin Group.) A rock star and a cellist reunite for an evening in New York City. (Ages 12 and up) (9) WE WERE LIARS, by E. Lockhart.

(Delacorte Press.) Four friends decamp to a private island off Martha’s Vineyard. (Ages 12 and up) (10) ELEANOR AND PARK, by Rainbow Rowell. (St. Martin’s Press.) The world opposes the love of two outcast teenagers. (Ages 14 to 18)

Artful Conversations Summer Series at the National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art invites children to use their observation skills, imagination, curiosity, and creativity to explore various works of art. Guided discussions that delve deep into masterpieces from the Gallery’s collection allow participants to spend an hour exploring one work of art! Each week’s discussion is accompanied by activities such as sketching, writing poetry, creating sounds, or making comparisons between works of art. Children who attend three or more programs receive a prize.

“See–Wonder–Poetry” is on Saturday, July 12 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sunday, July 13 at noon and 2 60 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

p.m. “See–Wonder–Sketch” is on Saturday, July 19 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sunday, July 20 at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. “See–Wonder–Compare” is on Saturday, July 26 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sunday, July 27 at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. “See–Wonder–Sound” is on Saturday, Aug. 2 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 3 at 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Sign-in for Artful Conversations will take place in the West Building Rotunda, beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturdays and at 11 a.m. on Sundays, and will continue until all spaces are filled.

Constitution-in-Action Family Activity Dates at National Archives

On Thursday, July 10, Wednesday, July 23 and Tuesday, July 29, 2-4 p.m., families are invited to take on the role of researchers and archivists for the day. During a two hour simulation, they will help the President and Bob, his Communications Director, prepare for a very special press conference.

Families will work together to locate and analyze facsimile documents and find the connection each has to the Constitution. This is a great way to explore the history, learn more about the National Archives, and gain a greater understanding of the role the Constitution plays in our daily lives. Reservations are required and must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Reservations can be made by emailing learninglab@nara.gov and specifying: date and time, parent/adult, child(ren), e-mail, phone, cell phone, and mailing address. National Archives is at 700 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.

The Ultimate Urban Safari at the Corcoran

On Saturday, July 19, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., families are invited for a wild summer day dedicated to the animal kingdom! Spurred on by Albert Paley’s exhibition, children discover how creatures big and small can inspire their lives through workshop activities, book readings, and wildlife specialists. Participate in an animal welfare community service project that day and make a difference! All ages welcome.

The Washington Humane Society is looking for donations of all kinds! They are welcoming pet supplies and encouraging families to bring in as much as they can. Dogs wish list is hard rubber toys, training treats, rope toys, peanut butter, canned pumpkin (unsweetened), slip leads and leashes, gentle leader, headcollars, dog hair dryers, Martingale collars, and tennis balls. Cats wish list is wet and dry cat food, training treats, cardboard scratching posts, unused cat toys, fleece donut cat beds, non-clumping cat litter, nail clippers, Feliway dispenser refills and KMR for kittens. Gently used blankets and towels are always needed. Visit washhumane.org/adopt to learn more.

Baseball Family Festival at American Art Museum

On Saturday, July 19, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., families are encouraged to bring their children to play ball

with the American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery! Visitors may tour the galleries to find some of the best names in the game, enjoy baseballthemed crafts, a book signing of Becoming Babe Ruth by author Matt Tavares, and appearances by local team mascots. American Art Museum, 8th and F Sts. NW. Visit here for more info.

Civil War Reenactment Weekend at Fort Ward

The Civil War Reenactment Weekend is Saturday, July 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, July 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, 4301 W. Braddock Rd. Alexandria, VA. This weekend recognizes the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Fort Stevens, the only battle fought in the defense of Washington. Saturday’s schedule features a skirmish interpreting the historic battle, at 2 p.m. Sunday’s schedule includes a concert by the Federal City Brass Band at 2 p.m. The suggested donation is $2 per adult or $5 per family. For more information, visit alexandriava.gov.

Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods

Tickets are on sale now: July 8 and 9, Mr. Molecule-Bing, Bang, Boom! Science Show; July 10 and 11, Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band; July 12, DinoRock-Dinosaurs Forever; July 15 and 16, Catskill Puppet Theatre-Sister Rain and Brother Sun; July 17, Los Quetzales Mexican Dance Ensemble-Fiesta Mexicana; July 18-19, Culkin School of Traditional Irish Dance; July 22, Natyabhoomi School of Indian Dance-India CallingAn Indian Journey Through Dance!; July 23, Hope Harris-Picasso, That’s Who (And So Can You!); July 24, Taikoza-Japanese Drums and Dance; July 25 and 26, Hudson Vagabond Puppets-Butterfly!

The Story of a Life-Cycle; July 29 and 30, Mista Cookie Jar & The Chocolate Chips; July 31, Capitol Tap-Tapping the Timeline: Tap Music from the 1920s to Today; Aug. 1 and 2, Pushcart PlayersLittle Red Riding Hood & Other Stories; Aug. 5, Improv 4 Kids; Aug. 6 and 7, Taylor 2-Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company; and Aug. 8 and 9, Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players.

All performances are $10 and are at 10:30 a.m. wolftrap.org

Marines in Sports Family Day

On Saturday, Aug. 9, 12 p.m.-3 p.m., families may bring their young ones to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway, to learn about Marines in sports and why athletics are an important part of the Marine Corps.

Kids can also make and take their own sport craft.

Free admission, free parking. Go to usmcmuseum. org to learn more. u

DON’T MISS IT! A Removable Directory to Assist Parents on the Decision Making Process Our summer Education Supplement will feature interesting articles on public, private and charter schools as well as extracurricular activities, resources and programs.

Publication Date - August 9

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 61

KIDS & FAMILY

Simon Elementary Students Win Essay Contests written and photo by Charnice A. Milton

O

ver the last two school years, Simon Elementary School, located on Mississippi Avenue, has celebrated both student and staff achievements. For instance, kindergarten teacher Kathy Hollowell-Makle was honored twice, as DC Public Schools (DCPS) 2013 Teacher of the Year and as First Lady Michelle Obama’s guest at the 2014 State of the Union. In May, Simon students and staff had another reason to celebrate: Whitney Bartell’s fifth grade students, Ka’Shawn Hough and Arjanae Mitchell were two of ten winners of the National Capital Lawyers Auxiliary’s (NCLA) Law Day essay contest,

while another, Kavon Douglas, was named as a Carson Scholar.

Why Apply?

Although she is in her second year at Simon, Bartell is used to finding new opportunities for her students.

“I have a very supportive administration and colleague network here and they are always making me aware of various things that my students can apply for,” she said. “And these students in particular always display the hallmarks of what it means to be an excellent student.” Not only do Hough, Mitchell and Douglas have good grades, Bartell stated that the

three are leaders in the classroom.

“They are the people who take over in terms of projects and can manage their peers in a way, and their peers are very dedicated to following these three,” she explained. “Now, I see that a lot of kids may ask them for help on certain homework or class assignments where they’re working in groups.”

When Bartell suggested Douglas, Hough, Mitchell for the Carson Scholarship and NCLA Law Day essay contest, she said that their enthusiasm made them easy to convince. “I think that these experiences are also things that will follow them for the rest of their lives,” she ex-

plained. Mitchell was already thinking of her future when she applied: “I decided to enter to essay contest because I want to be a teacher when I grow up and I want to help others,” she said. Hough had a different reason: “I wanted to be in the essay contest so I could try something new this year.” Not only was the contest a new experience, she also wanted to meet Supreme Court Judge Sonia Sotomayor, who was the keynote speaker during the May 1 award ceremony. Finally, Douglas said he wanted to become a Carson Scholar because, “...I want to set an example for young people just like me and older people.”

NCLA Law Day Essay Contest

(From Left to Right) Fifth graders Kavon Douglas, Arjanae Mitchell, and Ka’Shawn Hough (seen here with teacher Whitney Bartell) received special recognition after being named a Carson Scholar (Douglas) and winning the NCLA Law Day essay contest (Mitchell and Hough).

62 H EASTOFTHERIVERDCNEWS.COM

According the application, the NCLA Law Day essay contest hopes “...to encourage students to understand the importance of living in a democratic society.” The contest invites DCPS fifth graders to write 250 to 500 word-essays on a given theme. This year, the theme was “What America Means to Me.” NCLA chose up to ten students to win a gift certificate and an autographed copy of Justice Sotomayor’s book, “My Beloved World;” they also have the chance to meet Justice Sotomayor and read excerpts from their essays during the awards ceremony.

“I was nervous when I was getting my award because there were so many things going through my mind. I didn’t really know what to say,” said Mitchell of the event.

“Then, I stopped being nervous. So, I just went up there and read my essay.” Hough was also nervous during the ceremony. “When I went to

the Supreme Court, I thought if I saw [ Justice Sotomayor] in person, I might say the wrong thing,” she said. “But I was also excited because I got to see the Supreme Court Justice.” After the ceremony, Justice Sotomayor congratulated and took pictures with the students, along with Bartell and their principal, Dr. Adelaide Flamer.

Ben Carson Scholars

Since 1996, the Ben Carson Scholarship Fund (CSF) award students in grades 4 through 11 with academic success and a dedication to serving their communities. Perspective Scholars are nominated a school official (i.e., principal, teacher, or counselor); however, only one student from each school can apply. The student must have a minimum GPA of 3.75 and display humanitarian qualities through community service. Winners receive $1,000 college scholarship as well as an “Olympic-sized medal and trophy.” This year, 510 students around the country were named as Carson Scholars and to date, CSF has awarded 6,200 scholarships.

Although he did not attend the awards ceremony, Douglas is still proud of the work he accomplished. “I feel excited, but when I was doing the contest, I was nervous because I didn’t know I was going to win,” he explained. “But I tried my best. I got so excited; I cried in front of my mom and my sister and Dr. Flamer.” After receiving the nomination, Douglas completed an application, which included an essay portion. “I wrote my essay about how I struggled so bad when I was young and I met my goals when I got older and the people that eventually helped me,” he said. Douglas struggled with multiple subjects, including math, science, social studies, and reading. “I couldn’t get it,” he explained. “I was trying my best, but I still couldn’t get it. But now, I

know what I need to do. I believed in myself. I tried my best. I never back down on myself and I never give up.”

A Family Affair

What makes this achievement special for Douglas and Hough is that as siblings, they can celebrate together. “They’re very competitive, but they’re very, very close,” said Bartell. “Right now, they’re actually competing for valedictorian and salutatorian.” Despite having a competitive relationship, they support each other’s achievement. “I’m proud of him for winning,” said Hough. “He’s my older brother, so now, I can follow his footsteps.” Douglas agreed saying, “I never thought she would get this type of award from this greatest person...So now, I can set examples for her and she can set examples for me.

What Happens Now

As the school year ends, Douglas, Hough, and Mitchell are preparing for graduation and middle school; Douglas and Hough will attend Somerset Preparatory Public Charter School in the fall (Mitchell said that she will attend a preparatory school, but she does not know where). However, they are also applying for a summer program that allows them to gain experience in their chosen career field. With her students’ recent successes, Bartell hopes that their stories show how much the city has to offer: “There’s so much available in Washington, DC for students who want to learn and want to showcase their particular talents,” she argued. “It’s just a matter of enabling the students to take advantage of that. These students will never win anything unless they apply or unless they try.” u

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | JuLY 2014 H 63

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“Come Back Kids”

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

by Myles Mellor and Sally York Across:

1. “Rock the ___” 7. Life-force 12. Visits too long 20. Iroquoian language 21. Chart anew 22. Group of one-celled organisms 23. Hugh Lofting fantasy novel 26. Convenience 27. Ancient writing materials 28. Cockeyed 29. One side in checkers 30. Memory unit 31. Cash in Denmark 33. Urge 35. Foot bones 39. European nation 42. Besides 44. Summer cooler 46. Bacterium that doesn’t need oxygen 48. Trans-Siberian Railroad city 52. 2006 Disney flick 56. First home 57. Ground 58. Last: Abbr.

59. Eagle’s nest 60. ___ Rouge 62. Realizes 65. Fix 66. Connections 69. Lubricate 70. Brought on board 71. Part of i.p.s.

72. Sycophant’s response 73. Derived from oily substances 75. English Channel feeder 76. Piano man?

78. Vetoes 79. Hair raiser?

80. Draws nigh 82. Symphony member 86. Annual filings, for many 91. Particular 92. Results 93. Certain strays 94. Barley beards 96. Tipped off 99. “___ side are you on?”

100. Hot spot 103. Litigant 104. Marked down 106. Samovar

107. Indian princes 110. With pluck 113. Old Icelandic literary work 117. Horror film series 121. Cordial 122. Positive pole 123. Until now 124. Good health 125. Mug 126. Saucy lass

Down:

1. Word with red or blew 2. Celebes buffalo 3. Moments 4. Dentist’s request 5. Bother 6. Hellcat 7. Move forward 8. Bank 9. Mideast chief: Var. 10. ___ debt 11. Liable 12. Some tournaments 13. Comic villain 14. Undecided 15. Soaks 16. Squirt 17. Blue shade 18. Yesteryears 19. Smooths 24. Facts and figures 25. Idle 30. Frame used for burials 32. Cambodian money 34. Fan 35. Bad thing to blow 36. Zipped through 37. Mesh of veins 38. Was abhorren 40. Thai money 41. Disneyland city 42. Opposite of hinder 43. Wranglers alternative 45. Feeble 47. Birds in barns 49. Eel 50. Filch 51. Jabs, in a way 53. Old Chinese money 54. “Catch-22” pilot 55. Button material 61. Raise

Look for this months answers at labyrinthgameshop.com 63. Pitcher’s pride 64. Input data again 65. Picked up 66. Japanese system of writing 67. No-brainer?

68. Undeliverable mail, slangily 70. Nuclear ___ 71. Engine sound 74. Scribe 75. The Amish, e.g.

76. Custom 77. Crude 79. Wildebeests 81. How Phileas Fogg traveled

83. Verve 84. Snake eyes 85. Finnish river 87. Carbonium, e.g.

88. C.I.A. worry 89. On the way out 90. Picks up a pickup, maybe 95. Michigan city 97. Big roll 98. Where to find a hero 100. Soft twilled fabric 101. Gladiators’ locale 102. Sammy Kaye’s “___ Tomorrow” 103. Hotel amenities

105. ___ pop 108. Advance amount 109. Iotas 111. Lily family member 112. Calf-length skirt 113. Christian Science founder 114. Kaput 115. Check information 116. Former British protectorate 118. Not waste 119. Partakes of 120. Sentimentality

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