East of the River Magazine – April 2025 by Capital Community News

NEIGHBORHOOD

SPRING ARTS WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

We Gather at the Edge: Contemporary Quilts by Black Women Artists at the Renwick

The artists featured in We Gather at the Edge honor the Black story quilt tradition with work that envisions a more just and connected world. The selection of quilts acquired by the Renwick Gallery, Pennsylvania Avenue at 17th Street, NW, and featured in this exhibition through June 22, is remarkable in its scope and groundbreaking in its representation of Black history and culture as told with needle and thread. This exhibition honors the legacy of Mazloomi and celebrates members of the Women of Color Quilters Network. americanart.si.edu.

Myrah Brown Green, In My Akuabaa Form, 2000, cotton fabric and cotton batt, 95 × 86 in. (241.3 × 218.4 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Fleur S. Bresler, 2023.40.19, © 2000, Myrah Brown Green.

Filmfest DC (62 films, 36 countries, 1 amazing film festival)

Filmfest DC has always been about more than just the films; it’s about the magic that happens when people gather, share, and immerse themselves in the art of storytelling. Each film has been selected for its artistic merit and its power to transport, enlighten, entertain, and remind us of the profound way artworks can impact our lives and the world. Festival programming consists of special opening and closing night events, as well as panels, workshops and Q&A sessions in theatres. Film programming consists of fiction, documentaries, animation and shorts. Find the full schedule at filmfestdc.org.

Smithsonian Craft Show

hundreds

The Smithsonian Craft Show is one of the country’s premier showcases for the finest in handcrafted, American artisanal works. Each year, a new trio of experts is selected by the Show chairs to review hundreds of applications and select the year’s featured exhibitors representing all facets of contemporary craft and design, including basketry, ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed media, paper, wearable art, and wood. April 24 to 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and April 27, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW. Admission is $25. smithsoniancraftshow.org.

LEFT: Brooch by Aleksandra Vali

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Come to The Wharf on Saturday, May 3, 2 to 5 p.m. for the Running of the Chihuahuas presented by Pacifico and emceed by Tommy McFly. This fun-filled and free event features the iconic Chihuahua races, a Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ, 360 pet photo booth, an adoptable pet parade, an all-breed dog costume contest and a giant inflatable Chihuahua for photo opportunities. wharfdc.com.

The 2025 EU Open House in Washington, DC is on Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This event falls every year on the first Saturday after Europe Day on May 9. On this day, the European Embassies celebrate by opening their doors to the public so that Americans can catch a glimpse of the European cultures that make up the European Union. Normally you have to cross the Atlantic to visit the EU, but at Open House, you just have to cross the street. Plan your day at washington.org/visit-dc/reasons-to-touran-embassy-in-dc-during-passport-dc.

Spirit in the Dark (Religion in Black Music, Activism and Popular Culture) at NMAAHC

Mosaic’s cullud wattah at the Atlas

It is 2016 and it has been 936 days and counting since Flint, Michigan has had clean water. Third-generation General Motors employee Marion finds herself on the cusp of a promotion until her sister begins participating in protests accusing the company of poisoning the water. Forced to confront their past and weigh their limited options for the future, the family finds their tight-knit unit threatened by more than just the toxicity of the water. cullud wattah is at the Atlas, 1333 H St. NE, through April 27. Tickets are $42 to $78 (includes fees). atlasarts.org.

Sometimes in the foreground, sometimes in the background, at times in the shadows—religion is essential to the story of Black America. Objects in the museum’s collection testify to religion’s role in the struggle for human dignity and social equality. The images in the exhibition spotlight noteworthy individuals including religious and political leaders, musicians, authors, athletes, activists and educators and are supported by an array of objects from the museum’s collection, many on display for the first time. Spirit in the Dark examines Black religious life through a selection of photographs from the Johnson Publishing Company, publisher of Ebony, Jet and Negro Digest. nmaahc.si.edu.

King James Bible belonging to Little Richard.

Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf

WHAT’S ON WASHINGTON

Allison Russell: All Returners Tour at The Lincoln

Grammy-winning artist Allison Russell is a weaver of stories and tales through the medium of music. From her devastatingly moving celebration of survivors’ joy through Outside Child to the body-shaking, mind-expanding, soulful expression of Black liberation that is The Returner, Russell’s music exceeds expectations and affirms her place among today’s most vital artists. Lincoln Theatre, 1215 U St. NW, on Saturday, May 3, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 6 p.m.). Tickets are $30. thelincolndc.com.

Around the World Embassy Tour

On Saturday, May 3, travel the world through food, art, dance, fashion, music, innovations and manufactured goods at this unique event. Non-European Union embassies open their doors and guests can experience a variety of cultural activities, such as petting alpacas, playing with robots and learning indigenous dances. For many Embassies, this is the only time they make themselves open and available for public touring during the year. Most visitors should expect to visit about five embassies in a full day. Participating Embassies will be released in April at eventsdc.com/passportdc.

Guerrilla Girls: Making Trouble at NMWA

The artist collective known as the Guerrilla Girls (est. 1985), who declared themselves “the conscience of the art world,” mark their fortieth anniversary in 2025. Drawn from NMWA’s extensive holdings of work by the Guerrilla Girls, this exhibition presents an enthralling visual timeline of the group’s progress and ever-expanding subject matter, including gender disparity in the arts as well as politics, the environment, and pop culture. Comprising anonymous feminist-activist artists, the Guerrilla Girls are known for their provocative street campaigns and the advertising-style graphics that they use to broadcast their messages across billboards, buildings, banners, and other sites. National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Ave. NW, from April 12 to Sept. 28. nmwa.org.

Valerie

June: Owls, Omens and Oracles Tour at The Birchmere

Wine Fest: Spring Edition at Union Market

On Saturday, April 26, noon to 10 p.m., you’ll have the chance to sample premium wine while live entertainment keeps the party lively during this one-of-a-kind experience at Union Market’s Dock5. Sessions for $35 are 1 to 3 p.m.; 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.; and 7 to 10 p.m. Early admission ($55) gets you in one hour before the crowd. unionmarketdc.com.

Valerie June is known for her distinctive voice and singing style. As a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and three-time Americana Music Honors and Awards nominee, June weaves fresh medicinal downloads of love, sweetness, goodness, and joy with songs that have flowed through her for years June honorably served as a Turnaround artist working with students for the President’s Committee for the Arts and Humanities. She has recorded three best-selling solo albums and written songs for legendary artists such as Mavis Staples and The Blind Boys of Alabama. Valerie June: Owls, Omens and Oracles Tour is at the Birchmere, 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria VA, on Wednesday, April 16, 7:30 p.m. Admission is $49.50. birchmere.com.

Valeria June, 2022.

What Lies Beneath Environmental Concerns About Development Plans for RFK Site

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

After a decade of effort, the District took control of the RFK Campus site in January, following DC Council approval of federal legislation. This transfer came as Events DC began the phased demolition of the 64-year-old RFK Stadium.

“Now we have the opportunity to shape a vision and deliver for the residents of the District of Columbia,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said at a public meeting on February 12. The city is already exploring potential locations for an NFL stadium, which the mayor envisions as the centerpiece of the site’s redevelopment.

Mayor Bowser has confirmed that initial development plans for the 177-acre site are underway. This prime real estate—one of the last large tracts within the District—features extensive Anacostia River frontage and is adjacent to Kingman and Heritage Islands.

But environmentalists focused on protecting the river, wetlands, and wildlife say that transparency around these plans has been lacking. Stakeholders report that the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) has held meetings with invited parties centered on business, sports, as well as parks and open spaces. However, no meeting has yet been held with stakeholders focused on environmental concerns.

“It feels like at some point out of the blue, there’s going to be some sort of deal made, and things are going to move quickly,” said Lora Nunn, a Kingman Park resident and environmental activist. “As advocates, it’s been on us to independently prepare for whatever contingencies arise—whatever type of stadium or no stadium situation.”

Protecting the Anacostia River

Environmental activists are particularly concerned about the Anacostia River, which nurtures Washington, D.C. They fear that ongoing development could reverse hard-won progress in restoring the river and nearby Kingman and Heritage Islands, putting wildlife, water quality, and surrounding communities at risk.

“Our concern is always for the well-being of the river and everyone who uses it, including those who haven’t yet,” said Anacostia Riverkeeper Trey Sherard. A major issue is stormwater runoff, which carries heat, pet waste, trash, and oil into the river.

For the past 50 years, organizations have worked to clean up the Anacostia. The city has invested nearly $3 billion in the Clean River Project, constructing two massive tunnels to capture stormwater and sewage for treatment. The District Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) retrofits about 200 acres of streets annually

The Maury Elementary School hiking club regularly heads to Kingman and Heritage Islands to “enjoy, play and learn,” just as City Wildlife President Linton envisions. Photo: E. Nelson

to absorb stormwater, and private developments must implement runoff management systems. The Anacostia River Cleanup and Protection Act—commonly known as the “bag tax”—has also reduced plastic bag litter in the river by 75%.

Advocacy groups like the Anacostia Watershed Society (AWS) continue restoration efforts. AWS volunteers, including Nunn, help reintroduce mussels that naturally filter water and restore wetlands. Casey Trees planted 400 trees along the river in 2019, while DOEE’s planting efforts further reduce soil erosion and improve water filtration.

The effects of these efforts are visible. The river is the cleanest it’s been in decades, according to DOEE. However, new construction could harm these gains. “Nature is delicate,” said Nunn. “Even if something is accidental or unplanned, it could have a devastating effect on the progress that’s been made.”

One concern is that increased sediment flow during construction could harm mussels, cloud the water, and hinder the growth of underwater vegetation—disrupting the entire ecosystem. Environmental advocates are pushing for infrastructure that protects the water from stormwater pollution and construction runoff.

“It’s an opportunity to create additional habitat and

plant more trees,” said City Wildlife’s Linton. She emphasized the importance of natural habitat for wildlife, adding the benefits extend to people. “It’s about habitat for humans too and making sure that that area around the river is a place where people can enjoy, play and learn,” Linton said. While planning, she said the city could also consider how nature will interact with a newly built environment.

Early development plans included footbridges linking the campus to the southern tip of Kingman Island, but advocates are concerned about the impact on delicate wildlife habitats located there. The District should work to promote access to the riverfront and to the islands by expanding a main entrance on Benning Road, Linton said, preserving access to the river from the RFK side but not making the island into a thoroughfare.

In 2018, Mayor Bowser designated Kingman and Heritage Islands as the District’s State Park to preserve their natural resources and scenic beauty. However, Nunn worries that the stadium’s significance may overshadow efforts to protect the parks and wildlife.

Access to the islands is already challenging. During the annual Earth Day cleanup, Nunn noted that festival attendees’ needs elsewhere on campus often take priority over volunteers’ access and resources.

“These challenges make it difficult for the community to trust that, as development grows, the needs of the islands, parks, and residents will be respected,” she said.

What Lies Beneath

Beyond the environmental impacts, there are concerns about what lies beneath the RFK site. The area has a long history, with materials from the dredging of the Anacostia River in the late 1800s used to fill in marshes. Later, the site was filled with soil, rubble and other materials before RFK Stadium was built in 1960. In 2019, The Fields at RFK opened, but much of the site remains covered in asphalt.

The exact condition of the land remains unclear. River advocates stress that a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is necessary before any construction. The site’s history as a marsh, combined with various fill materials over the years, raises concerns about toxins and structural issues.

The last EIS conducted for the site was in 1993 when a new stadium was proposed. That statement found contaminated soils, including lead and semi-volatile organics, from the fill materials. An environmental assessment for The Fields at RFK had missed lead in initial tests, leading to an additional $3.7 million in remediation costs once digging began.

Dr. Larry Martin, Chair of the DC Sierra Club Committee on Water and Natural Places, argues that an EIS

is too generic. He wants the city to hold itself to its own standards. “What we really need is an environmental impact assessment that looks at our laws and evaluates development proposals against what we’ve already said we want for our city.”

In 2022, the Sierra Club created a tool to place monetary value on ecosystem benefits. The same year, DC amended the Green Building Act to require city-funded buildings to meet net-zero energy standards. Despite these progressive goals, the city hasn’t always followed through.

In January, the city granted renovations to Capitol One Arena an exception from the net zero energy standards required in city-funded building improvements, which also condemn energy from fossil fuels. At the public meeting with Bowser, the Sierra Club’s Beyond Gas DC Co-Chair Mark Rodeffer asked the mayor to commit to developing RFK in conformity with the District’s climate commitments and environmental law.

“We’re not at that level of planning,” Bowser said.

“That was a disappointing response,” Sierra Club’s Martin said when I asked him about it. He said the mayor often supports admirable legislation, like the Net Zero building commercial codes. Martin said. “But then she doesn’t always support these lofty goals with the budget to realize them,

Limits to Growth

Mayor Bowser has assured the public that the city will consult the community once it determines the required environmental assessments under federal law. “We’re going to develop 177 acres there,” she said.

However, not all 177 acres are available for development. The legislation transferring the site to the city requires that 32 acres be preserved as riparian wetlands and 30% of the site—about 42 acres—be maintained as parks and recreational space. Bowser has also committed to keeping the Fields at RFK, which occupy 27 acres. This leaves roughly 100 acres for development.

Activists argue that far less land is actually suitable. The Sierra Club, for example, points out that about a third of the site lies within a floodplain, making development risky. Approximately 60 acres are in the FEMA-designated “1% floodplain”—an area prone to severe flooding from once-in-a-century storms. In the past six years, flash floods have occurred twice, and climate change models predict rising sea levels will further increase flood risks in the coming decades.

“We do not need to be building in the floodplain,” said Martin. “Floodplains are meant to absorb floodwater, preventing downstream flooding.”

Rising sea levels also contribute to higher groundwater levels. Sherard noted that sea levels in the District rose 9 inches from 1970 to 2020 and are projected to rise another 11 inches by 2050. This could make it difficult to construct stable foundations for large structures like a stadium or housing.

A National Park Service (NPS) map showing areas in red that were transferred in the Federal legislation. The long, dark strip along the river is reserved to protect it. The blue spaces, which include Stadium Armory and Eastern High School, are not included in the land transfer. From Congressional Research Service (CRS) Dec. 9, 2024 Report.

Cautiously Optimistic

The Hill Rag sent a list of questions to the Mayor’s o ce, DMPED and DOEE, but none provided direct answers. Interestingly, DC DOEE referred questions about the project to DMPED and the Mayor’s O ce.

In a statement, DMPED said, “Washingtonians have an incredible opportunity to create a new waterfront neighborhood at RFK. As the planning process continues, DC will continue to safeguard our air, water, and natural spaces. The District will follow the requirements of NEPA, NHPA, and the transfer legislation, including protecting and maintaining the riparian area, setting aside 30% of the campus for green space, improving public access to the Anacostia River, and restoring the wetlands south of Kingman Island.”

Despite the challenges, activists remain cautiously optimistic that the District and DOEE will do the right thing and hold a city project to the same standards as a private project, in terms of environmental standards for building as well as construction practices. “I have great hope there,” said Sherard, “and I trust DOEE to keep doing it, but they will have to hold their ground, right? One of the things that is awkward for [the agencies] in this kind of situation is that when one arm of the city is saying, we are developing this and they frankly want to do it really quickly, it’s awkward for a di erent arm of the city, DOEE, to have to be the cops for that.”

But they are realists. “I expect they will do their due diligence,” Linton said. “Whether or not everything that DOEE recommends happens, is another story.”

They are hoping for a balance between economic development and public good. “Just because we have these ideas on the books doesn’t mean they’re always going to be honored when push comes to shove,” said Martin. “Economic development is always a struggle between making money and serving the public interest.”

He believes that both goals can be achieved. “There’s always an opportunity to talk to developers and nd solutions that can bene t the public interest and economic development at the same time.” ◆

Rooting for Urban Agriculture in the District

by Annette Nielsen

The return of green sprouts signals the start of the growing season, and one way to celebrate is at Rooting DC, the annual urban agriculture conference hosted by the DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE). This year’s event took place at Eastern High School, drawing more than 800 attendees and 40 organizations for a day of learning and networking.

Launched in 2007 with just 150 urban gardeners, Rooting DC has grown into a major event, featuring exhibitors like Casey Trees, the University of the District of Columbia’s College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences, the US Botanic Garden, the DC Food Policy Council, DC State Fair, FRESHFARM, Plots and Pans and George Washington University – both the Milken Institute School of Public Health and the Global Food Institute, among others.

DOEE Director Richard Jackson highlighted the event’s impact:

“Rooting DC brought hundreds of local garden and nature lovers together to learn about urban gardening from our region’s talent—neighbors, students, businesses, nonprofits, and city partners. Residents explored soil health, composting, microgreens, smallspace gardening, and more. This event is central to our commitment to fostering a healthy, sustainable, and accessible environment.”

Love & Carrots, a sustainable landscape and vegetable garden company, was among the exhibitors. Staff member and urban farmer Mikyla Reta shared her enthusiasm:

“It was invigorating to be surrounded by and learn from community members just as passionate about urban garden-

ing. It’s so inspiring to see what knowledge and information can be shared in just one day by gathering so many of the DMV’s best gardeners and farmers.”

Throughout the day, attendees were able to participate in a wide variety of activities like “Creating a Sustainable Seedling Pot” (from newspaper) with the team from GW University, to sitting in on workshops like “Herbal Remedies” from Little Red Bird Botanicals, and “How to Reuse Household Materials in the Garden” with Community Forklift. Love & Carrots presented on “Tomatoes from Seed to Table”, and FRESHFARM’s FoodPrints programmed around “Gardening with Kids.”

Said one happy attendee about

Dr. Gabby Headrick (center), a member of GW faculty with Lauryn Nielsen (left) and Humay Sadig (right) at the Rooting DC event at Eastern High School, teaching how to make sustainable paper seedling pots. Photo: Annette Nielsen

Classrooms were bustling at Eastern High School with attendees learning everything from preserving seeds, to soil health and making herbal remedies. Photo: Courtesy of DOEE.

The Greenhouse on the Eastern High School campus provided more learning opportunities and exhibitors. Photo: Courtesy of DOEE.

Check-in and smiles with the Rooting DC event at Eastern High School in March. Photo: Annette Nielsen

what they most appreciated at the event, “The knowledge of the participants and their willingness to help others be successful in gardening, farming and agriculture – people were so friendly, welcoming and respectful towards each other. I loved seeing such an amazing diversity among attendees and speakers.”

To stay informed on all issues Urban Ag in Washington, DC, subscribe to the DC Urban Garden (DUG) Network at: dcurbangardenernetwork.wordpress.com.

Annette Nielsen, a writer and food systems advisor, returned to Capitol Hill from New York where she served as the executive director of the Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center. ◆

Homegrown Chimichurri Recipe by Charlie

Basa

Charlie Basa, a student at George Washington University, highlights the joy of growing herbs and eating healthy food. At the Rooting DC event, Charlie shared a simple chimichurri recipe along with packets of seeds. He explains, “It’s a delicious and versatile way to use the herbs you might be growing in your garden or on your windowsill this season. This sauce pairs wonderfully with meat, poultry, vegetables, and even rice.”

1 cup chopped parsley leaves

1 cup chopped cilantro leaves

¼ cup red wine vinegar

1 shallot, minced

1 teaspoon coarse salt

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon hot pepper akes, or 1 red chili, minced

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

½ cup olive oil

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add vegetables, red wine vinegar and seasons. Stream in olive oil while continuing to blend. Let sit, covered in the fridge for two hours so avor mingles. Serve as an accompaniament with steak, chicken, or roasted vegetables or drizzle over rice.

SATURDAY, MAY 17th 2025 1:00 - 5:00 PM ANACOSTIA PARK BRIDGEPARK.ORG/ARF

@DCBRIDGEPARK #DCRIVERFEST

neighborhood news

Ward 8 Needs Governance of Small Things, Like Illegal Parking

by Paul Davis

It seems like illegal parking is everywhere in Ward 8, especially East of the River. The problem is small in isolation, but its accumulative effect is choking our streets and our communities.

I’m not focused on everyday forms of illegal parking, like momentary parking to retrieve a food order, coffee, or prescription. That may be impolite, but it’s usually not serious. I’m focused on a deeper form: the pervasive use of our streets for chronic illegal parking by out-of-state vehicles. This problem is systemic, and the Department of Public Works is failing to resolve it (DPW is the agency responsible for parking enforcement.)

DPW’s parking enforcement mission assumes reasonable behavior (folks will follow the rules to avoid citations) and good faith (folks will pay their citations.) This approach works to keep everyday illegal parking from getting out of control, but it doesn’t work with systemic illegal parking.

One example is the food trucks and their support vehicles that come East of the River for regular, overnight, and long-term parking. Why? Because they get away with it here. The epicenter seems to be Star Vending—a supply company in the 1100 block of Marion Barry Avenue between Anacostia and Anacostia Park. Its business congests this passageway with food trucks, semitrucks, delivery trucks, and other vehicles. Essentially, it uses a public street—one bearing an honored name—as its own commercial parking lot. The street is narrow here: illegal parking makes the entire passageway hazardous for people traveling via car, bicycle, or foot. It is also unwelcoming to residents and visitors; it creates a vibe of danger and disorder.

Recently, food trucks and their support vehicles have expanded their illegal parking into the residential neighborhood of Fairlawn. I’ve looked up the tags on these offending vehicles: many have thousands of dollars of unpaid citations, often for reckless and dangerous offenses. Such ve-

hicles have nothing to lose, so they park illegally not only in Residential Parking Permit zones but also in spectacularly illegal areas, like in No Parking Anytime locations that block roads, driveways, alleys, fire hydrants, and stop signs. Some vehicles stay for weeks at a time without moving. This congests our streets, makes intersections unsafe, creates zones of litter, and prevents residential parking. All of this is illegal, that’s the injury. The insult is these vehicles are engaged in ongoing public theft against the District. DPW is not holding them accountable, and communities East of the River suffer the consequences.

For these vehicles, routine citations don’t accomplish anything. I’ve witnessed food truck operators throw citations on the ground, and why not? Out-of-state vehicles face no real consequences for ignoring parking citations.

Systemic illegal parking requires a decisive response. But instead of purposeful action from DPW, I’ve received a litany of excuses: DPW doesn’t have enough tow trucks, tow trucks aren’t available right now, the parking enforcement officers can’t escalate anything, boot crews are somewhere else, the tags are valid, etc. It all sounds complicated, but the reality is simple: nothing is being done.

A sympathetic parking enforcement officer shared with me (off the record) that DPW leadership doesn’t prioritize Ward 8 for towing and booting operations. This would explain a lot. But why is DPW not held to account by our leaders? After all, DPW’s Equity Statement states: “DPW remains dedicated to ensuring that all of our services are delivered in an equitable manner, irrespective of which neighborhood one lives in.” Inspiring rhetoric, but it’s only rhetoric. I suspect communities East of the River receive different parking enforcement treatment (i.e., under-served, underresourced, and under-prioritized) for the same reasons they’re always treated differently: indifference (“they don’t need it”), condescension (“they don’t

Top: Another out-of-state vehicle at rest in its private illegal parking spot in Ward 8.

Above: Illegal (and hazardous) parking as far as the eye can see, on Marion Barry Avenue near Anacostia Park.

want it”), and disdain (“they don’t deserve it.”) And our leaders let them get away with it.

Illegal parking is a relatively simple issue with a simple solution. The real scandal is that the problem exists at all. It reveals the state of governance in Ward 8 to be so severely broken that even small problems are becoming intractable.

The situation could be resolved. DPW could prioritize our communities for the deployment of tow trucks and boot crews. Parking enforcement officers could be empowered to identify dangerous vehicles and to escalate DPW’s response immediately. DPW could proactively direct its officers to areas in Ward 8 with a record of persistent illegal parking. DPW could build an interagency task force focused on systemic illegal parking. These are practical, common-sense measures.

But when it comes to good governance in Ward 8, the chair is empty, and it’s been empty for a long time. For too long, small things have been ignored. Illegal parking is just one example of other small things that are negative differentiators for Ward 8, things that reinforce patterns of neglect, disinvestment, and failure. Other examples are nuisance businesses, predatory landlords, lack of safe transportation options, reckless driving, unsafe pedestrian crossings, a methadone clinic operating in defiance of the community, sanitation hazards, and dangerous barbed wire near public sidewalks. All together, these small things make a big difference.

Ward 8 needs leadership that focuses on small things. Good governance of small things will move our ward forward, and make our communities a better place to live, visit, and cherish. As Ward 8 prepares to select its next Councilmember, may we be bold enough to insist on a leader capable of governing small things. That kind of leader is capable of great things.

Paul Davis wasn’t born in Ward 8, but he got here, gratefully, as soon as he could. He loves chatting over coffee. Drop him a line at paul. timothy.davis@gmail.com u

Special Election to Fill the 7D01 Vacancy ANC 7D Report

by Sarah Payne

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 7D met March 11 via Zoom. Commissioners Artilie Wright (7D03), Ebony Payne (7D05), Marc Friend (7D06), Brett Astmann (7D07, treasurer), Brian Alcorn (7D08, chair), Ashley Schapitl (7D09) and Dev Myers (7D10, secretary) were in attendance. Commissioner Mike Davis (7D04, vice chair) was absent. Single Member Districts (SMD) 7D01 and 7D02 are currently vacant.

The commission plans to hold a special election to fill the vacancy in 7D01 which has left residents of Kenilworth and Eastland Gardens unrepresented. Candidates Joshua Taborn and Charles Boston will run against each other for a second time after the Board of Elections (BOE) declared the office vacant following the 2024 General Election.

The unique situation unfolded last fall when Boston withdrew from the race. When he withdrew, however, it was too late for his name to be removed from the ballot. In November, Taborn ran unopposed, but received fewer votes than Boston leading the BOE to declare the office vacant.

Now, the two candidates will face each other again, but under slightly different circumstances. In compliance with the Board of Elections (BOE) rules, current commissioners will host the election in person at a location within the bounds of 7D01, Alcorn reported. The commission will need a quorum of at least five commissioners to conduct business and must schedule the election no later than April 12, 2025, he added.

Residents of the SMD will be invited to attend the in-person event and cast votes for their preferred candidate. Following the election, the commission will pass a resolution to officially fill the seat. The time, date and location of the special election have not yet been determined.

Other Matters

Lead for the Safe and Healthy Housing Division of the Department of Energy and Environment (DDOEE) Healthy Housing Program, Dr. Lakisa Blocker, briefed the com-

mission on resources available for community members who suspect mold or radon in their dwelling. Blocker highlighted the risks of mold exposure, which can include headaches, allergic reactions and difficulty breathing, as well as the dangers of radon, which can increase lung cancer risk. She also encouraged residents to use inspection services to ensure their homes remain safe. Tenants who suspect the presence of mold or radon can request an inspection through the DDOEE website (doee.dc.gov).

The commission voted to:

• request that the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) extend the closing date for Notice of Intent (NOI) 25-64 regarding improvements at Miner Elementary School (601 15th St NE) to allow the commission to submit comments and feedback about the proposed design.

• request that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) increase their presence at the intersection of North Carolina Ave, 16th Street and C Street NE to improve traffic enforcement and safety.

• support the stipulated class CT license application, in connection with the substantial change application, for Langston Bar and Grill (1831 Benning Rd. NE) to allow the establishment to expand business hours and begin serving alcohol earlier in the day.

• support the stipulated Class B license application for Economy Market (411 18th St. NE) in connection with its application for a license transfer.

• request an update from the Parks and Recreation (DPR) on maintenance and development plans for Kenilworth Park along Deane Ave NE. The land parcel is currently managed by the National Park Service (NPS), but negotiations to transfer the land to the District are in progress. The commission also requests additional information about maintenance and usage during the transfer.

• send a letter to DDOT concerning NOI 24-166TESD, which establishes a no turn on red at the intersection of Burroughs Ave and Kenilworth Ave NE, to instead suggest traffic light turn indicators synchronized with leading pedestrian intervals to allow pedestrians to more safely cross this intersection.

• send a letter of support to the Mayor’s Office of Special Events for the Capitol Hill Classic road race scheduled on May 18, 2025.

• send a letter of support to the Zoning Commission for the design review of the new correctional treatment facility annex project following their presentations to the commission and engagement with the community.

ANC 7D will meet next on April 8 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. You can learn more about the commission and register to attend at 7d0761.wixsite.com/anc7d-1.

Sarah Payne is a reporter for Capital Community News. She can be reached at sarahp@hillrag.com. u

Event Traffic Issues Dominate ANC 8F Report

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) 8F met both inperson at 250 M St. SE and online via Zoom March 18. On the Dias were Commissioners Nic Wilson (8F01), Markita Bryant (8F02), Brian Strege (8F03) and Edward Daniels (6/8F04) and Liam Goodwin (6/8F05).

Samaya Lane from the DC Federation of Democratic Women came to ask the ANC to write a resolution in support of a Friends of Diamond Teague Park organization, which she hopes will be able to rehabilitate the park and the unique pyramid artwork on the site. The park at 100 Potomac Ave. SE was dedicated in 2008 to Diamond Teague, a young man born and raised in Southeast. Lane said that Teague had a difficult time, living on the streets until he joined the Earth Conservation Corps and was able to turn his life around. Teague had a full scholarship to college, Lane said, and was doing well when he was shot and killed.

The ANC agreed to consider the resolution at their April meeting, which will also be attended by DPR.

Parking Woes

ANC spent discussed the perils of parking during events around Nationals Park (1500 S. Capitol St. SE), Audi Field (100 Potomac Ave. SW) and at The Wharf.

Johnny Gaither, a parking administrator with the Department of Public Works (DPW) and District Department of Transportation (DDOT) Ward 8 Community Engagement Specialist Keith Jones appeared for a question and answer session with commissioners and attendees.

Gather provided insight into special event enforcement,

as listed on street signs in Navy Yard. He said it only applies to baseball games at Nationals Stadium. It does not apply to DC United events or to concerts at Nationals Field, unless the event holder paid for it— then DPW would do parking enforcement and towing as during a game throughout the neighborhood.

Commissioner Daniels asked if the agencies were working on updating the 311 system so that citizens reporting parking issues can track whether their ticket had been resolved. Gaither said this was an issue with the Office of Unified Communication (OUC), which runs the system, and coordination between information in parking enforcement handheld systems, which he hoped would be resolved soon.

DPW has hired 12 additional parking officers who will be on the street after eight weeks of training; midway through that time, DPW will onboard another 12 officers, bringing another two dozen enforcement personnel to DC streets by the end of the summer, a total of about 280.

Responding to a question from Daniels, Gaither agreed that officers should ticket delivery drivers who are not parking in a safe manner and said he would address it with supervisors to ensure this would be addressed in officer training. Jones, from DDOT, added that his department was looking at additional curbside signage options to be announced shortly.

Commissioner Bryant asked about the new traffic pattern at I Street at South Capitol Street. The commissioners flagged a lack of signage indicating that turning is now forbidden left from westbound I Street SW onto South Capitol Street SE. DDOT agreed to address this.

Finally, Jones from DDOT said that a change in traffic pattern was coming to the Frederick Douglass Bridge. DDOT met with the residents in Buzzard Point a few months prior, and found they had concerns around the timing of traffic lights as vehicles travel around the circle onto the bridge. DDOT will be adjusting some of the lights over there, as well as making a lane change to facilitate traffic flow. There was no vote on any part of the discussion.

Llama Bar

The ANC voted to support an Alcohol Beverage Cannabis Administration (ABCA)

application for a Class C restaurant liquor license with entertainment endorsement for Llamabar Cafe (! Mst. SE), pending a signed Settlement Agreement (SA). The coffee and juice bar hosts daytime events with DJs but until now has not served alchol. Entertainment would be permitted from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. A representative for the applicant said that the establishment just wanted to have a DJ, noting they were willing to include limits on decibel levels. Commissioner Bryant said that lines to gain admittance are blocking entrances to parking garages. The representative said that while he was pleased to hear of the popularity of the establishment, he was also surprised and willing to create a barrier so that guests will not block entrances or public space. He also indicated that the ownership was willing to include language about alternate travel to Llamabar besides driving, as Circa has done on their materials.

Crime Down in Navy Yard

Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Captain Adam Crist told the commission that there had been two robberies reported in ANC 6/8F since the last meeting. The first was an attempted carjacking on the unit block of N Street SE in early March. People were out celebrating a birthday, Crist said, taking photos by a rental car near Nationals Stadium. They were approached by suspects who attempted to take the car, but they got the wrong key and were unable to take it. The suspects stole jewelry from one of the victims and fled. The other robber was a smart phone snatched on the Unit Block of M Street Feb. 24. It was reported the following day, Crist said, making it more difficult to make an arrest.

There were no new assaults with a deadly weapon (ADW) nor any homicides, Crist said, adding that both ADWs committed in ANC 6/8F in 2025 were closed with an arrest as well as one of the two homicides. Crist said he was confident the other would also be closed given the excellent video of the suspect MPD had obtained from a nearby store.

ANC 8F generally meets on the third Tuesday of the month with the exception of August. The next meeting is scheduled for April 22 to avoid Tax Day. See the full calendar of meetings and instructions to join at anc8f.org. u

Azalea Peak Bloom at the Arboretum

Visitors come to the US National Arboretum’s Azalea Collections every spring to witness one of Washington’s premier spring attractions: thousands of azaleas covering the anks of Mount Hamilton in a blaze of color. Peak bloom can vary by two weeks or more, depending on the weather, but usually takes place around the end of April. The earliest peak date reported last decade was April 15; the latest, May 4. Many azaleas are in bloom long after the peak and others might bloom early-there are usually some azaleas in bloom from early April until well into June. The best way to see this collection is on foot. The US National Arboretum main entry is at 3501 New York Ave. NE. usna.usda.gov/discover/gardens-collections/azaleas.

Earth Day Celebration: A Day Unplugged at the ACM

On Saturday, April 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., step away from the screens and reconnect with nature at the Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Pl. SE, Earth Day Celebration: A Day Unplugged. Join Them for a fun- lled, educational day celebrating the beauty of our planet with hands-on activities for all ages. Bring the whole family for an interactive exploration of what makes Earth such a special place. Enjoy gardening sensory play, paint your own planet Earth to take home, and discover ways to care for the environment. Take a storytime hike with Nature Play educators at 11 a.m., noon, and 1 p.m., and learn how to appreciate and protect our natural world. anacostia.si.edu.

DC Emancipation Day at Freedom Plaza

On Sunday, April 13, celebrate Emancipation Day in DC at Freedom Plaza, 1455 Pennsylvania Ave, NW, with a parade at 2 p.m., a concert at 3 p.m. and reworks at 8:30 p.m. dcemancipationday.com.

Canva Creations for Beginners at Anacostia Library

On Wednesdays, Through May 28, 2 to 4 p.m., at Anacostia Library, 1800 Marion Barry Ave. SE, join Digital Navigator Porsche to learn how to use Canva. Learn how to create a variety of items from yers, to invitations, business materials like business

AWS Earth Day Cleanup

Started in 1985 by DC native Howard Gasaway of Seafarers Yacht Club, the Anacostia River Earth Day Cleanup is AWS’s largest volunteer event and one of the biggest in the DMV. On Saturday, April 26, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., thousands of volunteers will clean up trash, serve the community, and enjoy the Anacostia River. At 1:30 p.m., AWS will host a celebration to thank volunteers. Register at anacostiaws.org.

cards and logos, and much more. dclibrary.org.

Monthly Anacostia Park Cleanups

Washington Nationals “Pups in the

Park” Games

Pups in the Park games this year are Sunday, April 6, 1:35 p.m. vs. Diamondbacks; Friday, April 25, 6:45 p.m. vs. Mets; Tuesday, May 20, 6:45 p.m. vs. Braves; Saturday, June 14, 4:05 p.m. vs. Marlins; Wednesday, Aug. 20, vs. Mets; Sunday, Sept. 28, 3:05 p.m. vs. White Sox. Tickets are $42, Purchase a discounted ticket for you, your family, and your favorite family pet and support the Washington Humane Society. All those with tickets purchased for Pups in the Park must enter through the Right Field Gate. Before entering, you must drop o a signed waiver for your dog’s up-to-date shots. All Pups in the Park attendees must print, sign and bring the Waiver Form with them to Nationals Park. For more information, visit washington.nationals.mlb.com.

Monthly on the second Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon, join Friends of Anacostia Park and 11th Street Bridge Park for a trash cleanup at Anacostia Park. This is an excellent chance to help the environment, hear from community partners and meet new people. Gather at the corner of Marion Barry Jr. Ave. SE and Anacostia Drive at 10 a.m., where gloves, bags, and garbage grabbers will be provided. Dress for the weather and bring water with you. nps.gov/anac.

The Big Chair Chess Club at Benning Library

The Big Chair Chess Club (BCCC) was started by famous ex-con Eugene Brown, whose life story is the basis for the movie “Life of a King”. The BCCC aims to infuse engineering and STEM concepts along with strategic thinking modules into its activities. Participants will be supplied with playing boards and chess literature as well. All ages and playing levels are welcome to come and play chess on Tuesdays, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Benning/Dorothy I. Height

Library, 3935 Benning Rd. NE. dclibrary.org.

Growing Community: Connecting the Past at the ACM

On Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. to noon, workshop participants will unpack the connections between modern urban gardens and their ancestral past to better understand urban gardening practices of today. They will examine how gardening in the midAtlantic has cultural contributions from many regions of the country and

Rhododendron cultivar. United States National Arboretum, Washington, DC, USA.

DC Open Doors

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. is program o ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership i city. is program o ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust

DC Open Doors

homebuyer or a D.C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. is program o ers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on rst trust homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst -time home buyer program

DC Open Doors is your key to homeownership in the city. This program offers competitive interest rates and lower mortgage insurance costs on first trust mortgages.You are not required to be a first-time homebuyer or a D.C. resident to qualify for DCOD. You must, however, be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia.

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst -time home buyer program

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

homebuyer or a D C. resident , be purchasing a home in the District of Columbia Visit www.DCHFA.org how to apply to any of DCHFA’s

HPAP provides interest free deferred loans for down serves as a co-administrator of this DC Department of Housing and Community Development’s (DHCD) rst -time home buyer program.

DC4ME

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees.

DC4ME provides mortgage assistance with optional down payment assistance to D.C. government employees. DC4ME is o ered to current full-time District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower's employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

years or older who have fallen behind on insurance and tax payments as a result of their reverse mortgage. Quali ed District homeowners can receive up to

COVID-19

DC4ME is offered to current fulltime District government employees, including employees of District government-based instrumentalities, independent agencies, D.C. Public Charter Schools, and organizations, provided the applicant/borrower’s employer falls under the oversight of the Council of the District of Columbia.

COVID-19

DC MAP COVID-19 provides nancial assistance to those a ected by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quali ed borrowers can receive a loan of up to $5,000 per month to put toward their mortgage for up to six months.

COVID-19

Gateway Open Studios Tour (Four Towns, One Community, 250 Artists)

On Saturday, May 10, noon to 5 p.m., the public is invited to explore the vibrant art community located in the four towns of Mount Rainier, Brentwood, North Brentwood, and Hyattsville that comprise Maryland’s Gateway Arts District. On this day, the artists have their studios open at the same time and visitors can explore the depth and breadth of this unique community. The district encompasses a two-mile stretch from Mt. Rainier to Hyattsville with most locations on or around Route 1/Rhode Island Avenue. Free shuttles will operate along the corridor to help people cover more ground. Street parking is available as well at Lots 1, 3, and 4 in Hyattsville. Shuttle routes and a parking map is available on the OST website. After the open studio tour, all are welcome to the outdoor afterparty from 5 to 7 p.m. at 3698 Wells Ave., Mount Rainier, featuring music, skateboarding, and a food truck. gatewaycdc.org/ost2025.

how this has in uenced garden practices of today. The Anacostia Community Museum is at 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu.

Monthly Invasive Species & Trash Removal at Shepherd Parkway

Monthly on the second Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., volunteers will join members of Ward 8 Woods to clean up litter and debris and remove invasive vines. Meet at 555 Newcomb St. SE. nps.gov/fodu.

The Dreaming and Building Together Series: Anacostia Arts Center

Join the Anacostia Arts Center on Wednesday, April 16, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for the 2025 Dreaming and Building Together Series at 1231 Marion Barry Ave. SE. This event invites the community to help reimagine and shape the center’s future—not just its building but its purpose. Organizers want input from neighbors, entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives on how the space can best serve the community. What do you value most? What do you need as creators, business owners, or residents? In December 2023, the Washington Area Community Investment Fund (Wacif) acquired the center to preserve it as a hub for economic growth, supporting local entrepreneurs in Wards 7 and 8. Learn more at anacostiaartscenter.com.

The Pearl Escape Commemoration

Join the Pearl Escape Project on Tuesday, April 15, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Westminster Church, Fourth and I Streets SW, for a powerful commemoration of resistance and freedom. This event honors the 77 African American men, women, and children who courageously attempted to escape slavery in 1848 by sailing from the Seventh Street Pier at the Wharf aboard the schooner Pearl. Dr. Clarence Lusane, Howard University professor and author of Twenty Dollars and Change: Harriet Tubman and the Ongoing Fight for Racial Justice and Democracy, will lead a discussion with Howard University graduate students on the modern-day relevance of the Pearl escape. After the program, attendees can join a jazz-led procession retracing the escapees’ path to the Wharf, where descendants of the Pearl passengers will call their names. All are welcome to attend, re ect, sing, and march. Learn more at westminsterdc.org.

Nat’s Baseball District Tickets

Start at $5

The Nationals o er DC residents exclusive savings on tickets in sections 401 & 402 all season. District Tickets are available for all home games on a rst-come, rst-served basis at nats.com/boxo ce or the Nationals Park Box O ce. Each fan can purchase tickets for up to four games. If not sold out, they will be available on game day. District Ticket holders qualify for fan giveaways, and kids 12 & under can receive special kid’s giveaways. They also get access to Happy Hour, Signature Sundays, and Kids Run the Bases.

Invasive Plant Removal at Kenilworth Park

Join volunteers monthly on the rst Sunday, 10 a.m.–noon, at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens to remove invasive plants. Meet at the parking lot on Deane Ave. NE near Kenilworth Track. No experience needed. Tools and gloves provided; bring your own if preferred. Wear close-toed shoes, long pants, and long sleeves. More info at nps.gov/keaq.

FurnishHopeDC

FurnishHopeDC helps DC residents in Wards 7 and 8 furnish their homes, breaking cycles of poverty by ensuring families have beds, dressers, tables, and couches. They are the only nonpro t in the area that delivers furniture, recognizing transportation barriers for those in need. Their mission also keeps good furniture out of landlls. Learn more at furnishhopedc.org.

Free DPR Lifeguard Training

DC DPR o ers lifeguard training and certi cation through the International Lifeguard Training Program (ILTP). Candidates must be 16 or older and pass a screening on the rst day, including a 100yard swim, retrieving a 10-pound brick from deep water, treading water for one minute without hands, and exiting the pool unassisted. Details at dpr.dc.gov/lifeguard.

Residential Street Sweeping Resumes

The Department of Public Works has resumed residential street sweeping through October 31. Motorists must obey posted parking restrictions to allow thorough cleaning. Parking is prohibited for two-hour intervals (9:30–11:30 a.m. or 12:30–2:30 p.m.) on sweeping days, with alternate side parking in some areas. Violators face $45 nes. Learn more at dpw.dc.gov/spring.

Do You Have a Notice for the Bulletin Board? The East of the River Bulletin Board includes event notices, volunteer opportunities and other community news. If you have a notice, send it to bulletinboard@ hillrag.com. ◆

Jun Lee from Washington Glass School in Mount Rainier.

Representing the Capitol Hill/Hill East, Eastland Gardens, Kenilworth, Kingman Park, Mayfair, Parkside, River Terrace and Rosedale neighborhoods and the RFK Stadium Complex.

Virtual Login: https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/822418957 70?pwd=30xgxP1oqOWhDHUuXw1vbrC1rYieSe.1 and enter password: anc7d

Brian Alcorn, Chairperson 7D08 – Capitol Hill 7d08@anc.dc.gov

Vacant 7D04 – River Terrace 7d04@anc.dc.gov

Brett Astmann, Treasurer 7D07 – Rosedale 7d07@anc.dc.gov

Dev Myers, Secretary 7D10 – Hill East 7d10@anc.dc.gov

Artilie Wright 7D03 – Parkside 7d03@anc.dc.gov

Ebony Payne 7D05 – Kingman Park 7d05@anc.dc.gov

Marc Friend 7D06 – Rosedale 7d06@anc.dc.gov

Ashley Schapitl 7D09 – Hill East 7d09@anc.dc.gov

Josh Taborn 7D01 7d01@anc.dc.gov

Vacant 7D02 7d02@anc.dc.gov

east washington life

Jazzmyne Townsend Meet Your Neighbor—DCPS Teacher of the Year

by Elizabeth O’Gorek

In October 2024, Stanton Elementary School (2701 Naylor Rd. SE in Ward 8), held a National Book Month assembly. In the audience was teacher Jazzmyne Townsend. She had no idea what was about to happen when DCPS Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee and Mayor Muriel Bowser walked in. “Okay, well, this is pretty cool,” she remembers thinking. “Like, DCPS really does it big for book month.”

Then Principal Richardson winked at her, and Townsend knew something was up. Bowser presented her with the 2025 DCPS Teacher of the Year Award.

“When we talk about how our children are challenged and loved in our schools, it’s because of teach-

ers like Ms. Townsend,” Bowser said in her remarks. Townsend got emotional, realizing that friends, family, and colleagues were present. It was Oct. 3, the day before Townsend’s birthday. “If you’ve seen the footage, you could definitely see me crying,” she said. “It was the best birthday gift.”

An Accidental Teacher

Townsend describes herself as an “accidental educator.” Born in San Diego, CA, the youngest of three children raised by a single mother, she said her mother instilled the value of education in all three kids early on.

“My mom worked a full-time job for the Franchise Tax Board in California, and she went to school at night. So I’ve always seen my mom juggle so much... I think that’s where I got my strong work ethic from,“ she says.

Townsend knew when she graduated from high school in 2005 that she wanted to attend an HBCU. She applied to three and was accepted to her dream school—Howard University, bringing her to the District in August, 2005. But she didn’t major in education. Her mother and sister both worked as teachers

and she thought she wanted to try something different, so she majored in business administration.

“I thought I would work in corporate America and do the fancy suits and briefcases and all that good stuff,” she said. But she graduated in 2009, at the peak of the recession when jobs were hard to find. She took a job at Friendship Public Charter School as a paraprofessional and she fell in love with the kids and with teaching. After half a year, the principal asked her to become a lead teacher the following year. That was 15 years ago.

Townsend worked at Friendship for four years, teachingearly childhood education, moving to DC Public Schools in 2013. She served a decade at Randall Highlands Elementary (1650 30th St. SE) and then at Stanton Elementary (2701 Naylor Rd. SE), where she has been for the past two years. She has taught early childhood through third grade as well as spe-

Jazzmyne Townsend. Courtesy: DCPS/J. Townsend

Jazzmyne Townsend with Mayor Muriel Bowser and Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee at the Oct. 3 ceremony presenting her with the 2025 DCPS Teacher of the Year Award. Courtesy: DCPS/J. Townsend

Stanton Elementary students and Ms. Townsend celebrate the holidays with then Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff. Photo Courtesy: J. Townsend

cial education, providing pull-out services for children who need extra support.

At Randall, Townsend watched as the girls in the upper grades struggled with relationships and conflict. Concerned about social media, mental health and student responses to their own changing bodies, she created My Sister’s Keeper, a group that met twice a week, offering girls an opportunity to discuss sensitive issues with a trusted adult. They talked about self-care, online information sharing and relationships. “We wanted to create the same sense of safety inside school that they have outside of school,” she said.

In her first year at Stanton in 2024, she wanted to address chronic absenteeism.

“So kids don’t come to school for a variety of reasons, but one of those reasons is sometimes our students don’t have clean clothes,” she said. “Something as simple as a clean uniform can really make a difference.”

Stanton partnered with a local laundromat, owned by the family of a former student. The school offered free laundry services for the community, supplying detergent. While the families washed and dried, they could attend readings and activities from local authors, along with sessions on incorporating reading at home. “Parents really loved this event,” Townsend said. So, they expanded: another organization helped the school get a washer and dryer installed at Stanton, and parents can use them free of charge.

“We’re just trying to eliminate some of those barriers and things that could keep kids out of school,” Townsend said, “and they have access to the resource right in the building.”

Changing the Narrative

Townsend wants to change the perception of kids who attend DC Public Schools in Wards 7 and 8. “There’s this narrative that gets attached to urban school districts,” she said, “that these kids ‘can’t’ because of where they come from, their socioeconomic status, their life experience.” There’s a level of lower expectation for them, Townsend said. They’re called “at-risk.”

“I would like to change the narrative,” she said. “Our students are ‘at resil-

ience.’” They face obstacles and use the adversity to become critical thinkers, creatives, and learners, Townsend explains.

“One of the most remarkable qualities of Ms. Townsend is her ability to connect with students on a personal level,” said Stanton Elementary Principal Allen Richardson. “She takes the time to understand each student’s unique strengths and challenges, providing individualized support. This approach not only boosts academic achievement but also fosters a strong sense of self-worth and confidence in students.”

Townsend is also a published author. Her first work came from a need: she wanted to teach Black history to kindergarten students but struggled to find materials that were developmentally appropriate. The book, *Hattie Leads the Way*, focuses on a little girl who faces challenges on her school playground, called the “Promise Land.” Hattie uses her intelligence and perseverance to outsmart bigger kids, eventually using tunnels just outside the playground. The story ties to Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, teaching students bravery and perseverance. “It’s about demonstrating bravery, believing in yourself, and never giving up,” Townsend said.

Townsend is now a nominee for the 2026 National Life Group Lifechanger of the Year Award, which celebrates those making a significant difference in students’ lives through excellence, influence, and leadership. The award, including a $10,000 prize, could be announced soon.

Townsend says awards are a huge honor. But, she said, the spotlight doesn’t belong to her. “It’s about other people, and I get to use these platforms to shine a light on my students, on their resilience, bravery, creativity, and imagination,” she said. Whatever recognition comes her way, Townsend plans to continue advocating for her students, colleagues, and administrators in the public schools serving Wards 7 and 8.

“I look at these opportunities as platforms,” Townsend said, “to highlight the great things happening in our communities.” u

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 34-2025

PHYSICAL NEEDS ASSESSMENT (PNA) CONSULTING SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Capitol Programs (OCP) qualified professionals to conduct physical needs assessment consulting/environmental assessment consulting services for DCHA.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and can be found on Housing Authority Market Place at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com

To access files respondents are required to Register on the Housing Agency Market Place platform.

Respondents will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the respondent’s responsibility to check the Housing Agency Market Place site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication sit for this RFP.

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025 by 12:00 p.m.

Email Lolita Washington, Contract Specialist lwashing@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 40-2025

LANDLORD DEBT COLLECTION SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Financial Management (OFM) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Landlord Debt Collection Services.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at:

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist at afarooqi@dchousing. org for additional information.

Theater Night

A curated review of theater in the DMV

by Matthew McClure

Politics. The thing that most of us think is rude to talk about at the dinner table doesn’t just happen in the vaulted halls of a domed building in our nation’s Capital. Politics is everywhere, all the time. Filling a glass with fresh water can be a political act. Reading a book can be transgressive, as can choosing to love or hate someone. Read on for our curated selection of plays this month that dive head rst into the complicated world of politics.

On Right Now

cullud wattah, Mosaic Theater Company Showing April 3 – April 27 www.mosaictheater.org

Did you know that one in four people across the world don’t have access to safe, clean drinking water? For the residents of Flint (one of the most densely populated cities in Michigan), this startling statistic became real when in 2014 the lifegiving uid owing from their faucets suddenly turned toxic.

Written by Susan Smith Blackburn Prize winner Erika Dickerson-Despenza, cullud wattah is an emotional exploration of the e ects of the Flint water crisis on three generations of an African American family. Like many rivers owing through the hearts of American industrial cities, the Flint River was always plagued by pollution and an ambivalent local government allowing factory waste to poison its waters. A state-employed “efficiency manager,” attempting to mitigate the lingering effects of the economic downturn of the

1980s, shifted the city’s water supply from the local puri cation plant to the Flint River, with no consultation or feasibility studies. The results were and are catastrophic: For 18 months, residents broke out in rashes and lost hair and weight while a generation of kids faced developmental and neural issues. The Flint water crisis was a loaded gun aimed directly at the country’s future.

“Flint is like the Rodney King of environmental justice,” explains director Danielle A. Drakes, referring to the brutal assault of King by Los Angeles police in 1991 that precipitated weeks of protests and violence in that city. “That was the rst real-time, videoed crisis. Black men and women under attack. This is just as much of an indictment. We’re watching folks being impacted and watching the people responsible walk away. People are still using bottled water daily.” Ezinélia Baba plays Plum, with Kelly Renee Armstrong as Marion, Lizan Mitchell as Big Ma, Khalia Muhammad as Reesee and Andreá Bellamore as Ainee, a multi-generational family of strong Black women ghting to live, love and thrive in a city seemingly determined to kill them. Drakes says she views herself as an “artistic Doula.” The prose, movement and actors are the catalysts that drive the narrative, while she provides a capable pair of hands that deliver the message to the audience. “This is an ensemble-driven play. The playwright suggests how the show should go. (Dickerson Despenza’s) stage directions aren’t parenthetical. They’re part of the poetry of the text.”

multi-generational of

cullud wattah nds resonance in the con-

texts of Black Lives Matter and #ICantBreathe, at a time when the foundations of social justice are being shaken. “What’s important about doing this play now is it’s still fresh. It’s an indictment of the justice that was done (in Flint).” Drakes says. “The way the play moves is a ritual. The playwright asks us to spend some time on what our intentions are in the world and society. It begs the audience to move and my job is to facilitate the audience being moved to action.”

In the Spotlight

Fake It Until You Make It, Arena Stage Showing April 3 – May 4 www.arenastage.org

The non-pro t environment is cut-throat. Allegiances and loyalty – both personal and professional – are tested, and betrayal in the name of funding is as common in the workplace as water cooler humor. This is the world created by Sicangu Lakota playwright and choreographer Larissa Fasthorse in her play Fake It Until You Make It at Arena Stage this month.

It’s not all seriousness though. There’s a good deal of laughs and ridiculousness in Fasthorse’s farcical tale

cullud wattah cast (front row: Lizan Mitchell and Ezinélia Baba; back row: Khalia Muhammad, Andreá Bellamore-Jeanniton and Kelly Renee Armstrong. Photo by Chris Banks.

Eric Stanton Betts and Brandon Delsid in Fake It Until You Make It at the Mark Taper Forum. Photo by Makela Yepez.

of rivalry between two com peting not-for-profits working to represent the rights of Native Americans, being produced in association with LA’s Center Theatre Group and directed by Michael John Garcés. There’s a lot that Fasthorse and Garcés (frequent collaborators on plays focused on and in Native American communities) manage to squeeze into 80 minutes of action: A rivalry between River (played by Amy Brenneman) and Wynona (Shyla Lefner) and their co-workers, a cat in peril, a grant up for grabs, an invasive species of plant and a love affair. All the action is set against a backdrop of shifting identity politics signified by pops of color and texture that speaks to the complexity of what it means to be a contemporary Native American.

allowing ‘objectionable’ books to be pulled from school library shelves.

2024 saw a record number of texts labelled undesirable: 10,000 in total across the nation.

Bad Books – Sharyn Rothstein’s new play at Round House Theater being debuted across the country as part of the National New Play Network’s Rolling World Premiere –tackles the topic of censorship through a battle of wits between a mother and a librarian.

In the current storm of American politics, where cracking a joke about racial or ethnic affiliation is like walking on eggshells, Fasthorse and Garcés ride out the danger admirably. “The play goes pretty hard in problematizing those issues.” Garcés says. “It doesn’t lead to easy answers either. (Fasthorse) is doing what the best satirists do: Leave people in a place of questioning and uncertainty so that they can really grapple with the issue.” Garcés says that he and Fasthorse create work that depicts Native people as active participants in and creators of their own joy. “We wanted to reflect that in this play. Humor is such a huge part of how indigenous folk have resisted and survived for centuries. When Larissa and I work in these communities, people ask for humor on stage. They don’t want a tragedy fest. They want it to be about serious things but they want it to be funny.”

Special Mention

Bad Books, Round House Theatre Showing April 2 – April 27 www.roundhousetheatre.org

In the early Spring of 2022, Florida governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill

Rothstein writes regularly for TV and film. As the child of immigrants, she’s compelled by stories that highlight discrimination, prejudice and freedom of people and ideas. “I started writing Bad Books a few years ago, and it feels even more relevant today, which is always a good thing for a playwright but does also speak to the current moment.” Directed by Ryan Rilette and featuring Holly Twyford (‘The Mother’) and Kate Eastwood Norris (‘The Librarian/Editor/Manager’), Rothstein, who is a mom herself, explores the anxieties involved in raising children and wanting to protect them while still permitting them to think for themselves. “I purposely didn’t set it in a specific place and I didn’t give the characters names.” Rothstein explains. “There’s a parable quality to the play. Every theater that’s producing it is doing research on local initiatives to ban books. There’s talk about making this feel as local as possible which isn’t hard to do because we’ve seen book banning discussions all over the country.”

Bad Books has a serious message for audiences, Rothstein says, but it also invites us to laugh at the messiness of being human. “The play makes a plea for talking to each other as people that are united in wanting what’s best for our kids and communities. Maybe that sounds idealistic, but I think it’s the only way forward.” u

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 53-2025

FEE ACCOUNTING –BALANCE SHEET ACCOUNT RECONCILIATION

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Financial Management (OFM) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Fee Accounting – Balance Sheet Account Reconciliation services.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Monday, March 31, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at:

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, April 28, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist at afarooqi@dchousing. org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 55-2025

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Capital Construction and Design (CCD) requires licensed, qualified professionals to be able to solicitate and coordinate with 3rd party testing companies to satisfy hazmat report requirements.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at:

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506 To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist at LMMCLEOD@ dchousing.org for additional information.

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

SOLICITATION NO.: 59-2025

COMPREHENSIVE RISK ASSESSMENT FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) Office of Financial Management (OFM) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Comprehensive Risk Assessment for the District of Columbia Housing Authority.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available Tuesday, April 1, 2025, and can be found on Housing Agency Marketplace at: https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Housing Agency marketplace. See registration link below.

https://ha.internationaleprocurement.com/requests.html?company_id=506

PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.

Email Abdul Karim Farooqi, Procurement Specialist at afarooqi@ dchousing.org for additional information.

The Old Man from Anacostia Hats Off to the Old School

by Philip Pannell

When I was growing up, there were certain rules of behavior that were followed by most men in my community. Men wore their best clothes to church and never kept their hats on indoors. As I got older, read more, met different people and experienced other people’s cultures, I realized that I had to be more exible in my thinking.

There are cultures and religions where it is acceptable if not required for men to wear head coverings indoors— and there are special situations. Maryland Congressman Jamie Raskin wore head scarves to cover his hair loss due to the side e ects of chemotherapy. I asked Lamont Mitchell, the chair of the Anacostia Coordinating Council, why he wears a baseball cap during meetings and his response was immediate and clear: it keeps his head warm. Bald heads do get cold.

I do not think that head warmth is the reason that Elon Musk wears his MakeAmerica-Great-Again baseball cap indoors. The world’s richest man and our country’s most in uential oligarch clearly feels he is not bound by old-school customs. He has been photographed wearing his baseball cap in the White House Oval O ce. It is di cult to tell boys in DC schools not to wear hats indoors when they see our nation’s top plutocrat wearing his baseball cap, a t-shirt and casual jacket in the president’s cabinet meeting. If Elon Musk walked into a DC school in his casual attire, do you think its principal would ask him to take o his hat? If Musk’s wearing a cap indoors is okay with the president, why should it matter to a school principal?

Last month Vice President J.D. Vance visited a Marine Corps base in Quantico,

Virginia. He wore a baseball cap with the message “Once a Marine, Always a Marine” and kept it on while having lunch in the mess hall. Marines learn on day one to remove their head coverings when indoors. It is a matter of showing respect. Vance was quickly criticized by many military veterans for keeping his cap on. A furious debate was ignited on social media and the vice president did have his defenders, but his detractors carried the day.

I have reached the point that I will not fall on my sword regarding whether men should remove their head coverings when indoors. It is more important what is in a man’s head than what is on it. However, unless there is a religious reason to the contrary, I think men should remove head coverings indoors–particularly when dining.

And I still believe that male students should not wear head coverings in school.

Donald Trump and his associates are having a profound e ect on the rules of public behavior. His use of profanity at rallies and other public events has contributed to the increased frequency of vulgarisms on cable news shows. Recently Evangelist Franklin Graham sent President Trump a letter asking him to “stop using foul language” in his speeches. He shared the biblical admonition with the president that “On the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak” (Matthew12:36). Graham has been a Trump supporter since 2016 and apparently is more taken aback by foul language than insensitive and destructive public policies.

Although I have evolved in my thinking about men wearing headgear indoors, I have not changed my view about the use of profanity at public meetings. Some people may nd the use of foul language

in public impactful and just a matter of “telling it like it is.” I nd the use of public profanity usually unnecessary and inappropriate. Recently at a community meeting in Ward 8, one of our community leaders went to the microphone, gave passionate remarks and used a profane word to nail home her point. That meeting was in a church and I found her use of profanity to be shameful given the venue.

Please do not think that I am a prude. Currently my favorite television drama is Tyler Perry’s “Sistas.” There is no lack of obscenity in either words

or actions and it is, in my opinion, one of the most sexually explicit shows ever to appear on television. But please do not disturb me when “Sistas” is on because I will be too busy being shocked.

While my views about many things have evolved and changed, cursing in church or any house of worship is something that I will never nd acceptable or excusable. I take o my hat to that oldschool custom.

Long-time Ward 8 community activist Philip Pannell can be contacted at philippannell@ comcast.net. ◆

Changing Hands

Changing Hands is a list of residential sales in Capitol Hill and contiguous neighborhoods from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, Associate Broker at Coldwell Banker Realty on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

kids & family

by Kathleen Donner

Easter Monday at the Zoo: A Washington Family Tradition

On April 21, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., join the National Zoo for a wild and egg-citing celebration. This decades-long tradition is a roaring good time, celebrating families and the vibrant DC community. Get a front-row seat to keepers working with animals in the daily demonstrations. Admission is free and all are welcome. Parking is $30. Zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Last admittance to exhibit buildings is 30 minutes before closing. For a schedule of activities, visit nationalzoo.si.edu/visit/events/easter-monday.

MOST-DC Portal For Out of School Time Programs

Mayor Bowser has announced the launch of the My Out of School Time DC (MOST-DC) portal, a new online platform designed to make it easier for families to find and register for afterschool and summer programs. The portal serves as a one-stop shop for parents of students in kindergarten through 12th. most.dc.gov.

Family Workshop: A Power Player Spectacle at the Folger

On Saturday, May 3, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., join the Folger Shakespeare Library, 201 East Capitol St. SE, as they use their how-to guide to power playing and the

Dog Man: The Musical at the Warner

With the head of a dog and the body of a policeman, Dog Man loves to fight crime and chew on the furniture. But while trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings?

Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?? Find out in this epic musical adventure featuring the hilarity and heart of Dav Pilkey’s beloved characters.

Dog Man: The Musical is at the Warmer Theatre, 513 13th St. NW, on Saturday, April 26, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and Sunday, April 27, noon and 4 p.m. Tickets start at $48. Recommended for grades one through five. warnertheatredc.com.

words of Shakespeare to create their own spectacular production. This family workshop is inspired by Folger’s temporary exhibition, How to Be a Power Player: Tudor Edition. There are two sessions available with these recommended ages: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for ages five to seven; and 1 to 2 p.m. for ages eight to eleven. Free, however registration is required. folger.edu.

DC Truck Touch

On Saturday, May 3, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., RFK Stadium’s Lot 8 (2400 East Capitol St. SE, entrance off Independence Avenue) will rev up with excitement for DC’s annual Truck Touch--a high-energy, hands-on experience for all ages. Watch local kids take the wheel as they navigate a dynamic track in electric vehicles they’ve engineered themselves--showcasing innovation and energyconscious design in action. Get a front-row seat for the EV time trials from 9 to 11:00 a.m., followed by wheelto-wheel racing kicking off at 12:30 p.m. Explore nearly 30 types of vehicles from DC government agencies— from street sweepers and snowplows to dump trucks, police cruisers, fire engines, and even mobile medical units. This is your chance to hop inside, honk the horn, and learn about the tools that keep our city moving. Hosted by the DC Department of Public Works, this free, family-friendly event invites kids to climb aboard big rigs while grown-ups get to test out equipment usually seen from a distance. dpw.dc.gov.

Kids Fun Run at the Capitol Hill Classic

The 44th annual National Capital Bank Capitol Hill Classic is on Sunday, May 18. Washington’s largest and oldest 10k brings runners through the roadways of Capitol Hill, winding past the US Capitol, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, the Folger Shakespeare Library, Lincoln Park, East Capitol Street, and the Fields at RFK. They also have their regular 3k and kids’ fun run that will follow the 10k. The 10k ($50) starts at 8:30 a.m.; the 3k ($40) immediately following the conclusion of the 10k and the fun run ($20) immediately following the 3k. Registration is open now at capitolhillclassic.com/registration.

Kids Welcome at AWS Earth Day Clean-up

Kids, accompanied by an adult, can join in the Anacostia Watershed Society’s Earth Day Cleanup--a DC-area tradition where thousands of volunteers cleanup sites all along the Anacostia River and its tributary streams. On the Saturday following Earth Day, thousands of volunteers come out to dozens of different sites to pick-up trash, serve their communities, and enjoy the Anacostia River. This year’s Earth Day Cleanup is on Saturday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. After the cleanup, AWS will host a community celebration to show appreciation to their volunteers. Preregistration is required to volunteer and to get the Earth Day Cleanup t-shirt at anacostiaws.org.

Kids Opening Day at Nat’s Park

On Sunday, April 27, 1:35 p.m., vs. the Mets, ages 12 and under pick up a kids designed Opening Day T-Shirt and enjoy Screech’s Birthday. u

The kids fun run ($20) follows the 3k.

L-R: Brian Owen, Dan Rosales, DeShawn Bowens, JamieLaVerdiere, L.R. Davidson, Crystal Sha’nae. Photo: Jeremy Daniel

“C, See or Sea starters”

by Myles Mellor

Across:

1. Sporty British auto

6. Worthy principles

12. Web address ender

15. Douro river port

17. Win back the favor of

20. Annie Lennox hit “No More I Love ___”

22. Wire haired dog

24. C-____

26. Speech stumbles

27. Swing about

28. And others, for short

29. Baseball card datum

30. Paid attention

33. Swashbuckler Flynn

36. Berlioz’s “Les nuits d’___”

37. Banquets

38. Inspector in a UK TV series

40. Apartments

43. Alice Walker’s color

46. Peddle

47. Art photographer Goldin

48. Skillful veteran

56. Dictionary abbr.

57. Djokovic’s nation

58. BBC rival

59. Stair part

61. No-see-ums

62. Drug buster

64. Electrolysis particle

65. Artistic figures

70. “Umbrella” singer

72. Unspoken

73. Unfreeze

77. It’s a gas

80. Make really happy

81. Where Belg. is

82. Annexes

84. Bread buy

87. They all start with sea

92. Payoff

93. Fix

94. Bugs

95. Burned up

100. Center

102. Regal

103. ___ compos mentis

104. Tiff

106. Garden watering tubes

110. “ ___ never fly!”

111. “Love Kills” novelist Buchanan

113. Distinctive flair

115. Wire service (abbr.)

116. Painter Veronese

118. Romantic 1962 hit for Bryan Hyland

123. Word with judgment or shot

124. Bear

125. Southwestern grassy plains

126. Concorde or Tupolev?

127. “Later”

128. African tribesman

Down:

1. Gets licked

2. Drama set to music

3. Breakfast food

4. Website address

5. Awful mess

6. Imprison

7. Office stamp

8. ___ out a win

9. Fizzy prefix

10. Fishing tackle junk food

11. Dealt with maliciously

12. Sounds of woe

13. Alarm clock

14. Feliciano’s instrument

16. Understanding words

18. Milk dispensers

19. City in France

21. Tired

23. Microbrewery outputs

25. Dolls of the 80s

31. Strike callers

32. Some shirts

34. Carmen and MacBeth

35. “___ And Stitch”

37. Hanukkah item

39. Go back

41. Fey

42. Indo-China language

43. 2nd letter addendum

44. One-eighty

45. Campaigned for office

46. Show disgust

49. Surrealist painter Max

50. Business abbreviation

51. In-flight info, for short

52. Elder

53. Mexican child

54. Q ___ queen

55. Former heavyweight champion Spinks

60. DNA’s cousin

63. Sing softly

65. Fr. martyress, maybe

66. Hard to believe

67. Type of berry

68. Cosmonaut, Dennis

69. Part of a place setting

71. Poor

74. Self starter?

75. Hung. neighbor

76. Extract

77. Kubla Khan’s region

78. Turning point

79. Confidentiality agreement, for short

83. Pile up

84. E.R. personnel

85. Nay’s opposite

86. Guess: Abbr.

88. Cupcake

89. Most accessible

90. Imitator

91. Palindromic dog’s name, in the comics

95. Bits

96. Hose

97. Memorable soprano

98. Bucking bronco show

99. Chronicles

100. Surroundings

101. ___ the finish

102. Separate

105. Unfamiliar with

107. Appealing

108. Racetrack town near London

109. Spacek of “Crimes of the Heart”

112. On the safe side

114. Ice hockey org.

117. Decide

119. Poetic conjunction

120. “Waterloo Bridge: Gray __” by Monet

121. European skyline sight

122. Mary __; Cosmetic mogul