East of the River Magazine November 2010

November 26th-27th Fri-Sat December 4th, 11th & 18th Saturdays December 23rd – Thursday 10 AM to 8 PM Holiday Cards Black Angel Tree Toppers African Artifacts, Fabric & Clothes Unique Home Decor Collectible Dolls Books & Calendars Children’s Toys Designer Clothes, Shoes, & Hats Fine Art & Crafts Bath & Beauty Leather Goods Loc Adornments Gold, Silver & Diamond Jewelry Negro League Collectibles Black Memorabilia

General Admission: A Smile!

Shiloh Family Life Center • 1510-9th Street NW, Wash. DC 20001 (9th & P Streets) • 202.610.4188 Ample Parking, Metro Accesible (Mt. Vernon, Greenline)

w w w. b z b i n t e r n a t i o n a l . c o m

EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER 2010 | CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 08 ............Go See Do 10 ............East of the River Calendar 16 ............The Bulletin Board 20 ............The Real Vince Gray • by Michelle Phipps-Evans 24 ............The Numbers: Recession Strikes Again

by Jenny Reed & Ed Lazere

26 ............A Harvest for the Worlds • by Karen Jones

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE 28 ............Langston Golf Course..... • by Selby McCash 30 ............History of “East of the River Exhibit” • by John Muller 31 ............Spirit of Jamaica in DC • by Veronica O. Davis 32 ............The Jazz Project • by Jean-Keith Fagon

20

33 ............The Combined Federal Campaign • by Heather Schoell 34 ............CFC Listings

36

KIDS & FAMILY 36 ............Kids and Family Notebook • by Kathleen Donner 40 ............After 132 years, St. Teresa Remains Faithful

by John Muller

HOMES & GARDENS 42 ............Changing Hands • compiled by Don Denton 44 ............The Classifieds 46 ............The Nose • by Anonymous

ON THE COVER: John Trevino, Connecting Communities Through Language, 2010; a painting commissioned for the exhibition Word, Shout, Song: Lorenzo Dow Turner Connecting Communities through Language (on view at the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum).

The painting represents the three cultures that are included in the exhibit. On the left are the Gullah holding traditional baskets on their heads. In the center are the Brazilian women in the market and a Capoeira dancer and on the right is a traditional market scene from West Africa. The sea in the background connects the three cultures since the slaves came to the Americas by sea.

28

HILL RAG MIDCITY DC EAST OF THE RIVER FAGON COMMUNITY GUIDES

WWW.CAPITOLHILLREALTORS.COM

Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 • www.capitalcommunitynews.com

visit us on YouTube!

Serving MD, DC & VA

Real Estate Classes for $99 Call Today!

Long and Foster Institute of Real Estate has: • • • • • •

One of the best student pass rates in the industry Convenient classroom locations Weekday, evening & Saturday, and weekend & evening only classes available Faculty members who have “real world” real estate experience Easy online registration Career development program

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner melissaashabranner@hillrag.com EDITORIAL STAFF

HOMES & GARDENS

MANAGING EDITOR: Andrew Lightman andrew@hillrag.com CFO & ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Maria Carolina Lopez carolina@hillrag.com KIDS & FAMILY EDITOR: Susan Braun Johnson schools@hillrag.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Mary-Frances Daly maryfrances@hillrag.com

Rindy O’Brien - Hill Gardener • rindyob@mac.com Derek Thomas • derek@thomaslandscapes.com Judith Capen • judith.capen@architravepc.com

NEWS & NEIGHBORHOOD REPORTS

ARTS, DINING & ENTERTAINMENT ART: Jim Magner • jjmagner@aol.com DINING: Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com LITERATURE: Karen Lyon • klyon@folger.edu MOVIES: Mike Canning • mjcanning@verizon.net MUSIC: Stephen Monroe • samonroe2004@yahoo.com THEATER: Brad Hathaway • brad@potomacstages.com TRAVEL: Maggie Hall • whitby@aol.com THE WINE GUYS: Jon Genderson • jon@cellar.com THE JAZZ PROJECT: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com

CALENDAR & BULLETIN BOARD HILL RAG, DC NORTH & EAST OF THE RIVER: Hill Rag & East of the River Calendar Editor: Kathleen Donner BULLETIN BOARD EDITOR: Mary-Frances Daly calendar@hillrag.com, bulletinboard@hillrag.com

GENERAL ASSIGNMENT Monica Cavanaugh • monica.cavanaugh@gmail.com Michelle Evans • invisiblecolours@yahoo.com Mary-Frances Daly • maryfrances@hillrag.com Celeste McCall • celeste@hillrag.com Heather Schoell • hschoell@verizon.net Tanya Synder • tanya.c.snyder@gmail.com Virginia Avniel Spatz • virginia@hillrag.com Peter Waldron • peter@hillrag.com Paul D. Shinkman - pdshinkman@gmail.com Melanie Sunukjian - melsunuk@gmail.com Shannon Holloway - holloway.shannon@gmail.com

VISIT US:

We are right around the corner from you!

WARD 1: Mark Johnson • ward1@hillrag.com WARD 2: Amanda Abrams • ward2@hillrag.com WARD 4: Tanya Snyder • ward4@hillrag.com ANC6A: Tanya Snyder • tanya.c.snyder@gmail.com ANC6B: Kyle Johnson • kylejoh@gmail.com ANC6C: Kyle Johnson • kylejoh@gmail.com ANC6D: Roberta Weiner • rweiner_us@yahoo.com WARD 7: Virginia Spatz • ward7@hillrag.com WARD 8: Virginia Spatz • ward8@hillrag.com BARRACKS ROW: 202-544-3188 H STREET LIFE: Elise Bernard • inked78@hotmail.com THE NOSE: thenose@hillrag.com

PRODUCTION/GRAPHIC DESIGN LEAD DESIGNER: Jason Nickens 202.543.8300 X17 • jason@hillrag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jason Yen 202.543.8300 X21 • jay@hillrag.com

ADVERTISING & SALES SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Deborah Bandzerewicz 202.543.8300 X13 • deb@hillrag.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Kira Means 202.543.8300 X16 • kira@hillrag.com CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Maria Carolina Lopez 202.543.8300 X12 • carolina@hillrag.com

DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Andrew Lightman DISTRIBUTORS: David Sledgister and Southwest Distribution DISTRIBUTION INFORMATION: distribution@hillrag.com

WEBSITE WEB MASTER: Jason Nickens 202.543.8300 X17 • webmaster@hillrag.com

BEAUTY, HEALTH & FITNESS Patricia Cinelli • fitmiss44@aol.com Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW • www.quietwaterscenter.com quiet_waters_center@yahoo.com Peter Sherer • Peter@expmatters.com

KIDS & FAMILY Mary-Frances Daily • kidsnotebook@hillrag.com Susan Johnson • schools@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 lastword@hillrag.com.

For employment opportunities email jobs@hillrag.com.

EOE and certain restrictions apply not available in all areas

PUBLISHER: JEAN-KEITH FAGON • fagon@hillrag.com Copyright © 2010 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

capitalcommunitynews.com 6 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

Public Programs at the Anacostia Community Museum Nov. 3 The Talking Drum, 10:30 a.m. Joseph Ngwa, master drummer from Cameroon, Africa, demonstrates how the talking drum transmits messages and meaning through various sounds.

Nov. 6 Meet Author Eloise Greenfield, 10:30 a.m. This award winning children’s author discusses several of her books including Paul Robeson and her career. Book sale and signing follow discussion.

Nov. 6 Metro Mambo: Mambo Memory, 2-4 p.m. Filmmaker Mimi Machado-Luces discusses the preservation of Latin music legacies on film. Dance party with Verny Varela y su Orquesta follows.

Nov. 7 Growing Up In and Outside Gullah Culture, 2 p.m. Dorothy Hubler recalls growing up in several Gullah households and memories of customs around cooking, medicinal herbs use, and the “praise/ prayer house.”

Nov. 9 Quilts and Baskets in Afro-Carolinian Gullah Life, 7 p.m. Mary Twining Baird, co-author of Sea Island Roots: African Presence in the Carolinas and Georgia, presents common ties of Sea Islanders to West Africa.

Nov. 12-13 Symposium: Connecting the Worlds of the African Diaspora: The Living Legacy of Lorenzo Dow Turner, 9:30 a.m. Panel of contemporary historians, linguists and anthropologists discuss the ways in which Turner’s work inspired their research. Event includes exhibition tours. For info and registration, call 202.633.4832 or email Alcione Amos at amosal@si.edu through Nov. 5.

Nov. 14 Rhythm Café: “The Long Awaited Return – Cont’d”, 2 p.m. Part 2 of a three-part dramatic original performance by David Vandy explores traditional community life in Sierra Leone and the Gullah link. Part 3 takes place on January 9, 2011.

Nov. 16 The Curator’s Vision, 10:30 a.m. Alcione Amos, curator of Word, Shout, Song, leads a gallery tour and discussion.

Nov. 21 Family Across the Sea -56 min. video, 2 p.m. Film focuses on how Lorenzo Dow Turner’s work connected the Gullah people with the people of Sierra Leone.

Nov. 23 Black American Coal Miners, 10:30 a.m. Author Nancy Frantel discusses issues of mining and slavery sharing an often neglected aspect of American history.

Nov. 27 Hoodoo Medicine: Gullah Herbal Remedies, 1 p.m. Medical anthropologist Faith Mitchell explores Gullah healing practices, root doctors and medicinal plants as covered in her book which is available for sale and signing.

Dec. 4 Fused Stained Glass-Style Wall Hanging, 10 a.m. Craft a small stained glass-style wall hanging from pre-washed cotton fabric and fusible webbing to celebrate the holiday season. Fee: $12. Due by Nov. 12.

REMINDER: All events are free, open to the public and require reservations which may be made at 202.633.4844 unless otherwise indicated.

1901 Fort Pl. SE, Open 10am-5pm daily except Dec. 25. 202.633.4820 anacostia.si.edu. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

GO.SEE.DO. Mt. Vernon by Candlelight.

“Mrs. Washington” hosts an enchanting evening of candlelit tours, fireside Christmas caroling, and hot cider and ginger cookies. The Mount Vernon by Candlelight tour includes the first and second floors, featuring characters from the Washingtons’ world guiding visitors through the home and adding ambiance and authenticity to a traditional Christmas evening at Mount Vernon. Tickets on sale Nov. 1. $20. Children 11 and under, $14. Nov. 26, 27 and 28. Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19. 5:00-8:00 p.m. 703-780-2000. mountvernon.org

White House Christmas Tree Lighting Ticket Lottery.

Gone are the days when you could set your alarm for 5:00 a.m. on a cold November morning, drive through the deserted DC streets, stumble past line-campers, pick up a voucher and wait for the 8:00 a.m. ticket distribution.

For free tickets to this year’s Dec. 9th lighting ceremony, visit thenationaltree.org or call 877444-6777 (TDD 877-833-6777) between the hours of 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 5 and 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 7. The lottery will include 3,000 seats and 10,000 standing room tickets.

(If you can’t get tickets, as an alternative consider going to the Capitol Christmas Tree Lighting on Tuesday evening, Dec. 7 at 5:00 p.m.

No tickets needed and all are welcome.) Best of luck.

8 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

BZB Holiday Gift and Art Show.

The largest upscale African American department store on the east coast features holiday cards, black angel tree toppers, African artifacts, fabric and clothes, unique home decor, collectible dolls, books, calendars, toys, designer clothes, shoes, hats, fine art and crafts, bath and beauty products, leather goods, loc adornments, jewelry, Negro League collectibles and Black memorabilia. Nov. 26-27 and Dec. 7, 11, 18 and 23; 10:00 a.m.8:00 p.m. Shilow Family Life Center, 1510 Nineth St., NW. 202610-4188. bzbinternational.com

The Washington Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” at THEARC. A definite must-see on everyone’s holiday list, Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker returns to the THEARC Theatre to offer a unique twist on this family favorite. Set in Washington, DC and filled with hints of Americana, this production features the heroic George Washington as the Nutcracker, King George III as the Rat King and cherry blossoms dancing on the Potomac. This is a Washington, DC tradition that cannot be missed! Saturday, November 27 at 1:00 PM and 5:30 PM; Sunday, November 28 at 1:00 PM and 5:30 PM. THEARC Theatre, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. Tickets on sale now by phone or online. $29.

202-362-3606. thearcdc.org

Rodgers and Hammersteins’s Oklahoma at Arena Stage.

This is not your mother’s Oklahoma!. Inspired by the toughness of the prairie, Artistic Director Molly Smith sets her production in the robust world of territory life filled with a dynamic cast as rich and complex as the great tapestry of America itself. With Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless music, Oklahoma! celebrates the vigor of America’s pioneering spirit with athletic dance and boot-stomping energy.

Chock full of classic tunes such as “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” and “People will Say We’re in Love,” this muscular production will thrill audiences young and old. $60-$90. Through Dec. 26. 1101 Sixth St. SW. 202-554-9066. arenastage.org CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 9

CALENDAR THINGS-TO-DO WITH THANKSGIVING GUESTS Thanksgiving Service at Washington National Cathedral.

Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 25, 10:00 AM. The Cathedral Choir of Men and Girls sings anthems by Billings, Walton, and Candlyn. Organist Erik Wm. Suter concludes the service with Sigfrid Karg-Elert’s setting of Nun danket alle Gott. Free.

Cathedral at the intersection of Massachusetts and Wisconsin aves. NW. 202-537-6200. cathedral.org “Season’s Greenings” at the US Botanic Garden. Opens Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 25, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. The US Botanic Garden invites you to remember that the best things in life are free--the fragrance of a freshly cut fir tree, the magic of holiday lights and sumptuous decorations, and the delight of a child discovering the make-believe world of model trains.

Free. 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. Open Thanksgiving Day. Mid November through Mid March (depending on the weather). Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM-9:00 PM; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM-11:00 PM; Sunday, 11:00 AM-9:00 PM. $7 for adults, $6 for children 12 and under, students with ID and seniors 50 and over. Skate rental is $3. Seventh St. and Constitution Ave. NW. 202-2893361. nga.gov/ginfo/skating All National Mall Museums Open Thanksgiving Day. US Holocaust Memorial Museum is open. Anacostia Community Museum is open. The National Zoo is open. The national monuments are all available for viewing. Frederick Douglass House, Newseum, National Archives, US Capitol Visitors Center and Corcoran Gallery of Art are closed.

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Metro Mambo: Mambo Memory. Nov. 6, 2:00-4:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum. Filmmaker Mimi Machado-Luces discusses the intricacies of preserving Latin music legacies on film. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Growing Up In and Outside Gullah Culture. Nov. 7, 2:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum. Dorothy Hubler, a retired professor of education and foreign languages, recalls growing up in various Gullah/Geechee households in South Carolina and Maryland. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu A Reaffirmation Story: Quilts and Baskets in Afro-Carolinian Gullah Life. Nov. 9, 7:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum. Mary A. Twining Baird, co-author of Sea Island Roots: African Presence in the Carolinas and Georgia, presents the common links and specific ties of Sea Islanders to West African ethnicities. The baskets and the design of the quilt tops, like the Gullah language, relate strongly to the African cultural heritage of the Sea Islanders. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

Metro Mambo at Anacostia Community Museum

Metro Mambo: Mambo Memory.

Nov. 6, 2:00-4:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum. Filmmaker Mimi MachadoLuces discusses the intricacies of preserving Latin music legacies on film. Free.

1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu 10 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

Celebrate New Life at The Rock Christian Church. Every Saturday, 3:00-6:00 PM. If you have hurts, habits or hangups!

This is the place to come to. Help is here. Free. 1300 Good Hope Rd. SE. Call Dwain Lynch 301-523-0381 with questions.

Church office, 240-770-5041.

Big Chair Chess Club. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 4:00-10:00 PM; Saturdays, noon-9:00 PM. “To teach the unteachable, reach the un-reachable, and always think before you move” is the core mission of the Big Chair Chess Club, Inc. at the Deanwood Branch located in the nation’s capital. The organization teaches chess to inner-city children and adults, not only as a board game, but also as an application to life skills, such as improving one’s concentration and self-

discipline. $30 a year for adults, $10 for kids. 4322 Sheriff Rd. NE. 202-396-1780. www.bigchairchessclub.org Ward 7 Parent and Family Resource Center Family Book Club. Every Wednesday, 6:00 PM. Enjoy the evening reading with your child, meeting other families, and strengthening your child’s reading skills. Free books and snacks. For new and struggling readers, ages 6 and under. 5601 East Capital St. SE. For more information, call Marketta Wiley at 202724-7568.

Separate and Unequaled: Black Baseball in the District of Columbia. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Exhibition about segregated baseball from from Reconstruction to the second half of the 20th century. Anacostia Community Museum. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu Big Chair Breakfast Bunch. Saturday, Nov. 13, 10:00 AM-noon. Big Chair Coffee n’ Grill (upstairs). All are welcome to attend and discuss what’s happening East of the River. 2122 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. 202-525-4287.

Rhythm Café: “The Long Awaited Return—A Continuation”. Nov. 14. 2:004:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum.

Part 2 of a three-part dramatic performance speaks to traditional community life in Sierra Leone. Told through African dancing with masks and music, the story continues as the people search an unknown land for the missing link. Free.

1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Word, Shout, Song: The Curator’s Vision. Nov. 16, 10:30 AM. Anacostia Community Museum. Alcione Amos, curator of the exhibition Word, Shout, and Song: Lorenzo Dow Turner Connecting Communities through Language, offers a gallery tour and gives insight into the work of Lorenzo Dow Turner, the pioneering linguist who researched Africanisms found in the Gullah and Afro-Brazilian cultures.

Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Friends of the Deanwood Library Meeting. Wednesday, Nov. 17, 7:00 PM. Come and help support the new library. 1350 49th. St. NE. 202-698-1175.

Family Across the Sea (film). Nov. 21, 2:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum.

Family Across the Sea traces the connection between the Gullah people of South Carolina’s Sea Islands and the people of Sierra Leone as uncovered by linguist Lorenzo Dow Turner. The film illustrates how African Americans, through speech, songs, and customs, maintained ties with their homeland over centuries of oppression. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu Food Drive Volunteers Needed. Nov. 22, 23 and 24, 8:00 AM-8:00 PM. Sort and assemble food baskets. Metropolitan Police Boys and Girls Club, 4103 Benning CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 11

CALENDAR Rd., NE. 202-872-2024.

Black American Coal Miners. Nov 23, 10:30 AM. Anacostia Community Museum. Chesterfield County, Virginia, had the first commercial coal mines in the United States. The mother lode of the county, coal was heavily mined in the 1800s by a few wealthy businessmen mainly with the labor of enslaved Africans. They were sent deep into the earth, with a constant threat of danger, to dig the coal and bring it to the surface.

Who were these black coal miners? Nancy Frantel, an author with interests in mining history and slavery, discusses these issues as she shares an important, and often neglected, aspect of American history. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Hoodoo Medicine: Gullah Herbal Remedies.

Nov. 27, 1:00 PM. Anacostia Community Museum. The Gullah of South Carolina and Georgia are unique among African Americans because of the strength of their African heritage. West African religious beliefs, language, and healing practices have been maintained for generations in communities that were virtually unknown until Lorenzo Dow Turner’s groundbreaking research in the 1930s. Join anthropologist Faith Mitchell, PhD, a preserver of Gullah culture, in an exploration of healing practices, hoodoo, root doctors, and plants with healing powers.

Copies of the book are available for sale and signing. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum.

Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. As the Smithsonian Institution’s museum of African American history and culture, the museum explores American history, social and creative expression from an African American perspective. Free. 1901 Fort Place, SE. 202-633-4820 anacostia.si.edu Anacostia Neighborhood Library. Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9:30 AM-5:30 PM. Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00-9:00 PM. Closed Sundays. The new 22,000 square foot library has more than 40,000 books, areas for children, teens and adults, Mac computers for teens, 32 computers for the public, community meeting rooms and more. 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202715-7707. dclibrary.org/anacostia Anacostia Neighborhood Library Book Club.

Thursdays, 6:30 PM. Anacostia Neighborhood Library. Book club just now forming. 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-715-7707. dclibrary.org/anacostia Deanwood Neighborhood Library. Monday and Wednesday, 1:00-9:00 PM. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:30 AM-5:30 PM. Saturday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Closed Sundays. 1350 49th. St. NE. 202-698-1175. dclibrary.org/deanwood Deanwood Adult Book Club. First Monday of every month, 7:00 PM Engage in thought-provoking conversations and share your interests.

1350 49th. St. NE. 202-698-1175. dclibrary. org/deanwood

day, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9:30 AM5:30 PM. Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00-9:00 PM. Closed Sundays. 4037 S. Capitol St. SW. 202243-1184. dclibrary.org/washingtonhighlands Frederick Douglass National Historical Site.

Open daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Tours at 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM From 1877 to 1895, this was the home of Frederick Douglass, the nation’s leading 19th century African American spokesman. Visitors to the site will learn more about his efforts to abolish slavery and his struggle for human rights, equal rights and civil rights for all oppressed people. Free. 1411 W St. SE. 202-426-5960. www.nps.gov/frdo Fused Stained Glass-Style Wall Hanging Fabric Design Workshop. Dec. 4, 10:30 AM-1:30 PM. Anacostia Community Museum.Use prewashed and ironed cotton fabric and fusible webbing to create a small stained glass-style wall hanging that symbolizes a holiday or Kwanzaa. Hang your creation on the wall or door of your choice. $15, due by Nov. 12. For reservations, call 202633-4844. anacostia.si.edu

A Self-Reliant People: Greater Deanwood Heritage Trail.

SPECIAL EVENTS Emancipation Proclamation on display at National Archives. Nov. 10-12, 10:00 AM-5:30 PM. The original Emancipation Proclamation, which is rarely shown, will be showcased in a special three-day display during Part II of the “Discovering the Civil War, Consequences” exhibition. Pennsylvania Ave. at Seventh St. NW (enter on Constitution Ave.). 202) 501-5400. archives.gov Veterans Day Wreath Laying at Arlington Cemetery. Nov. 11, 11:00 AM. Arrive very early.

Security will be tight. Parking is free and transportation provided to the event site. Arlington Cemetery (west side of the Potomac River from Lincoln Memorial), Arlington, VA. 703-6078000. arlingtoncemetery.org Vietnam Veterans Memorial Veterans Day Ceremony. Nov. 11, 1:00 PM. Vietnam Veterans Memorial, 22nd and Constitution Ave. NW. 202619-7400. vvmf.org Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans. Nov. 11, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Mount Vernon celebrates Veteran’s Day by admitting active duty, retired, and former military personnel free-of-charge. Special activities include a patriotic community concert by the all-veteran barbershop chorus The Harmony Heritage Singers at 11:00 AM and a 2:00 PM wreathlaying at the tomb of our first commander-in-chief, George Washington. The United States Air Force String Orchestra performs the “Musicof George Washington’s World” at 3:00 PM in the Robert H. & Clarice Smith Auditorium.3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, VA.

Washington Highlands Interim Library. Mon-

Washington Craft Show. Nov. 19-21. A premier event of contemporary craft in America, the Washington Craft Show presents masterful work, beautifully displayed. Each piece is oneof-a-kind or limited edition in a range of prices, all designed and crafted in artists’ studios across America. $15. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Pl. NW. 203-2540486. craftsamericashows.com

12 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

Francis A. Gregory Interim Library. Monday and Wednesday, 1:00-9:00 PM. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:30 AM-5:30 PM. Saturday, 9:00 AM-5:30 PM. Closed Sundays. 2100 36th Pl. SE. 202-698-6373. dclibrary.org/francis

Deanwood Heritage Trail Walking Tour. Photo by Roy Lewis.

Discover, or see with new eyes, this traditionally African American enclave in Far Northeast when you follow “A Self-Reliant People: Greater Deanwood Heritage Trail.” Fifteen poster-sized street signs combine storytelling with historic photographs and maps to transport you back to the days before Deanwood was Deanwood. The 90-minute, self-guided tour will bring you along Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue, up 49th St. and along Sheriff Rd. back to Minnesota Ave. and the Metro station. Walk the trail at your own pace and take time to enjoy this small town in the city. Don’t forget to pick up a free trail guide from businesses along the way. 202-661-7581. www.culturaltourismdc.org Christmas Tree Lighting and Concert at Union Station. Dec. 2, 6:00 PM. The switch is flipped for the 8,000 lights on the magnificent 32-foot Christmas tree. Free. Union Station Main Hall, 50 Massachusetts Ave. NE. 202-333-6000. norway.org/xmas

MUSIC Gay Men’s Chorus Home Cooked Cabaret. Nov. 6. A cabaret performance by soloists selected from the Chorus followed by hosted dinners and parties throughout the District. Only 200 tickets available. $75. Call to order 202-293-1548. gmcw.org Music, She Wrote – The Artistry of Women Composers. Nov. 7, 4:00 PM. The Thomas Circle Singers open their 35th anniversary season in the beautiful acoustics of National City Christian Church with a concert celebrating the musical and poetic contributions of women to choral music. Included will be a performance of Gwyneth Walker’s “A Heart in Hiding,” commissioned for TCS in 2007. $20. 5 Thomas Circle, NW. 202-2323353. thomascirclesingers.org Anderson House Concert. Nov. 13, 1:30 PM. Julie Mack, vocalist, performs jazz standards and Brazilian music. Free. 2881 Massachusetts

Ave. NW (Dupont Circle area)202-785-2040. societyofthecincinnati.org “Homegrown: The Music of America” Concert at the Library of Congress. Nov. 17, noon.

Carlos Nakai--American Indian Flute Music from Arizona. Free. Coolidge Auditorium in Jefferson Building (First St. between East Capitol St. and Independence Ave. SE). 202-707-5510. loc.gov Sunday Concerts at the National Gallery of Art. November 7, 14, 21, and 28, 6:30 PM. West Building West Garden Court. The West Building entrance at Sixth St. remains open until 6:30 PM on concert nights. Concert line is 202-8426941. nga.gov “Take Five” (free jazz at the American Art Museum). Third Thursday of each month. 5:007:00 PM. Smithsonian American Art Museum, (Great Hall on the 3rd floor), Eighth and F sts.

NW. 202-633-1000. www.AmericanArt.si.edu Organ Recitals at “The Church of the Presidents.” First Wednesday of every month, 12:10 PM. Located across from the White House, this 1815 landmark was designed by architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe and is know as the “Church of the Presidents.” St. John’s Episcopal Church, 16th and H sts. NW (on Lafayette Square). 202347-8766. stjohns-dc.org

Music at Epiphany. Tuesdays, 12:10-1:00 PM Church of the Epiphany. The music is generally classical in this church known for its great acoustics. On the third Tuesday of each month, the music performed is from another culture or style--you may hear a steel drum band or a sitar. Free. A free-will donation ($5 suggested) will be taken to help support artists. 1317 G St. NW. 202-347-2635. www.epiphanydc.org Malcolm X Dancers and Drummers at Meridian Hill Park. Every Sunday (if the weather is 60 degrees or above and the sun is shining), 3:00 PM-sunset. Drummers and dancers from all walks of life and from every level of drumming abilities, other musicians of all varieties, and spectators of all nationalities and ages come together to create a wonderful, Africa-oriented expression of creative energies. Free. Malcolm X Park (Meridian Hill Park), 16th and Euclid sts. NW. 202368-8677.

Steinway Series of classical music concerts at American Art Museum. Second Sunday of every month, 3:00 PM The Steinway Series is a classical music concert that features the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s refurbished Steinway Concert Grand piano. Free. McEvoy Auditorium, Lower Level American Art Museum (between Seventh and Nineth and and F and G sts. NW.) 202-633-1000. www.americanart.si.edu Jazz Night (and fishfry) in Southwest.

Fridays, 6-9 PM. Westminster Presbyterian Church. Local musicians perform, and the Southwest Catering Company provides a fish fry 5:30-8:30 PM. $5/general; free/children under 16. Modestly priced food. 400 I St. SW. 202-484-7700, www. westminsterdc.org/jazz.htm.

Blue Monday Blues. Mondays, 6-9 PM. Westminster Presbyterian Church. Local musicians perform, and the Southwest Catering Company provides a fish fry from 5:30-8:30 PM. $5/general; free/children under 16. Modestly priced food. 400 I St. SW. 202-484-7700. www.westminsterdc. org/blues.htm.

Kennedy Center Millennium Stage.

Daily (including all holidays), 6:00 PM. The Kennedy Center Grand Foyer. “Performing Arts for Everyone” at the Millennium Stage was instituted to introduce the Kennedy Center to wider audiences by offering free performances, 365 days a year. Free. 202-444-1324 or 202-4674600. www.kennedy-center.org Magical, Mystical, Musical Machine: Noon Pipe Organ Recital Series. Fridays in Nov., 12:15-1:00 PM. ...pipeorgan-only focus, a burst of renewed energy, and a fun and interactive approach which will open your eyes to the amazing world of the pipe organ.

Free. National City Christian Church, 5 Thomas Circle. 202-232-0323. www.nationalcitycc.org “The Best Gift of All” Air Force Band Holiday Concert. Dec. 3, 10:30 AM (for CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 13

kids); Dec. 4, 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM; Dec. 5, 3:00 PM. Their mix of traditional and new holiday favorites delight audiences young and old alike. Free but tickets required. Stand-by seats available. DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St. NW. usafband.af.mil

MARKETS

Ferebee Hope (indoor) Aquatic Facility.

Open weekdays, 3:00-8:00 PM. Closed weekends. Free for DC residents (have ID). 3999 Eighth St. SE. 202-645-3916. dpr.dc.gov/dpr

H Street Farmers’ Market. Saturdays, 9 AMnoon, through Nov. 20. Parking lot in the 600 block of H Street. The market is a producers-only outdoor market offering fruit, vegetables, meats, baked goods, cheese, flowers and more for sale. www.freshfarmmarket.org

Langston Driving Range. Open every day except Christmas, sun-up to sun-down. In addition to the driving range, Langston has an 18 hole course, snack bar, pro shop and offers golf lessons. 45 balls, $4.75. 180 balls, $14.25. $2, golf club rental. 26th and Benning Rd. NE. 202-397-8638 www.golfdc.com

SPORTS, DANCE AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Yoga & Meditation Mindfulness Classes.

Every Wednesday, 5:30-6:30 PM. Prevention Works! Stretch, strengthen, and let go of stress by joining this weekly mindfulness class that combines yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. After a few yoga stretches that can help sooth aches and tension, we calm and center through meditation. Breathing exercises can also help us pause, energize, cope, and relax. These classes are open to anyone who wants respectfully to join in. No special clothing is required, but you will be asked to take your shoes off during class. Free. 2501 Benning Rd. NE. 202-588-5580. www.prevention works.org Fort Dupont Ice Arena Public Skating. Fridays in Nov., noon-1:50 pm; Saturdays in Nov., 11:15 AM-12:15 PM. $5, adults. $4, children and seniors. Skate rental, $3. 3779 Ely Place, SE. 202-584-5007. www.fdia.org African Dance Class. Every Monday, 7:15-8:30 PM. For adults. No prior experience necessary.

Walk-ins welcome. THEARC. $10. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. www.thearcdc. org Yoga Class. Every Saturday, 10:00-11:15 AM. For adults. No prior experience necessary.

Walk-ins welcome. THEARC. $10. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. www.thearcdc. org Roller Skating at Anacostia Park. Skate any time. This is a covered, outdoor skating pavilion. Free. From Penn. Ave., just before the bridge, south on Fairlawn Ave. and right onto Nicholson and then into the park. 202-4723873.

Southeast Tennis and Learning Center. Open daily; Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM; Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. Four indoor courts.Six outdoor courts. Summer hourly fees at $6 to $10 for adults. Kids 17 and under play for free. 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-6456242. www.dpr.dc.gov/dpr Tai Chi Class. Saturday mornings (except when it’s below zero or very inclement weather), 8:00 AM. Lincoln Park. Dr. David Walls-Kaufman, a Capitol Hill chiropractor, conducts this class every Saturday morning. Please dress comfortably. Free. East Capitol St. between 11th and 13th Sts. 202-544-6035.

Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Third Wednes-

14 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

day of each month, noon. This run is free and informal. West Potomac Park (meet on Ohio Drive at West Basin Drive, near the Tourmobile. stand). 703-505-3567. www.dcroadrunners.org

CIVIC LIFE 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.

Ward 7 Democrats Monthly Meeting. Fourth Saturday, noon-2:00 PM. Ward Memorial AME Church, 241 42nd St. NE. 202-584-8477 or info@ward7democrats. ward7democrats.org 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.

Historical Anacostia Block Association.

Second Thursday of every month. 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. First Baptist Church of Deanwood, 1008 45th St. NE Eastland Gardens Civic Association Meeting. Third Tuesday. 7:00-9:30 PM. Zion Baptist Church, 1234 Kenilworth Ave. NE. Greg Rhett jrhett3009@aol.com or 202-3881532.

Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 6th District Citizens Advisory Council.

Second Monday, except July and Aug. 7:00 PM. 6th District HQ, 100 42nd St. NE. PSA 602 Meeting. Third Wednesday. 6:307:30 PM. Kelly Miller Middle School, 301 49th St. NE. Lt. Phillip Lanciano, 202-6980840, Phillip.lanciano@dc.gov. 6D Cmty Outreach, Julia Irving, 202-698-1315, julia. irving@dc.gov PSA 607 Meeting. Second Thursday. 7:00 PM. Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good

Hope Rd. SE. PSA 701 Meeting. Second Tuesday.

7:00-8:30 PM. 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. For more information, contact Lt. Darlene Terry-Weeks at 202-698-1440.

PSA 702 Meeting. Fourth Thursday.

6:30-8:00 PM. Faith Tabernacle of Prayer, 2465 Alabama Ave. SE. For further details, contact Lt. Peter Hunt, 202-698-1445.

PSA 703 Meeting. Last Wednesday.

6:30-8:00 PM. St. John CME Church, 2801 Stanton Rd. SE. For details, contact Lt. Edward Aragona at 202-6981446.

PSA 704 Meeting. Second Wednesday.

6:30-8:00 PM. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. For details, contact LT Raul Figueras at 202-698-1438.

PSA 705 Meeting. Last Tuesday. 6:007:00 PM. UPO Petey Greene, 2907 MLK Ave. SE. For details, contact Lt. Michael Coligan at 202-698-1437 or Lt. Peter Larsen at 202-698-1441.

ANC Meeting for 7-A. Third Tuesday.

7:30 PM. Benning-Stoddard Rec. Center, 100 Stoddard Pl. SE. 202-727-1000.

7A@anc.dc.gov. www.anc7a.org ANC Meeting for 7-B. Third Thursday.

7:00 PM. Ryland Epworth United Methodist Church, 3200 S St. SE (Branch Ave and S St. SE). 202-584-3400. anc7b@ pressroom.com. www.anc7b.us ANC Meeting for 7-C. Second Thursday. 7:00 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202-398-5100. anc7c@verizon.net ANC Meeting for 7-D. Second Tuesday. 6:30 PM. Sixth District Police Station, 100 42nd St. NE. 202-398-5258.

7D06@anc.dc.gov ANC Meeting for 7-E. Second Tuesday.

7:00-8:30 PM. Jones Memorial Church, 4625 G St. SE. 202-582-6360. 7E@anc. dc.gov ANC Meeting for 8-A. First Tuesday.

7:00 PM. Anacostia UPO Service Center, 1649 Good Hope Rd. SE. 202-8896600. www.anc8adc.org ANC Meeting for 8-B. Third Tuesday.

7:00 PM. Seventh District Police Station Community Center, Alabama and McGee Sts. SE. 202-610-1818. www. anc8b.org ANC Meeting for 8-C. First Wednesday (June meeting is on the nineth because of the holiday). 6:30 PM. 2907 MLK Jr Ave. SE. 202-388-2244.

on THE

Hill Sharon L. Bernier

ANC Meeting for 8-D. Fourth Thursday. 7:00 PM. Specialty Hospital of Washington, 4601 MLK Jr. Ave. SW. 202 561-0774

PhD, CNS, BC

ANC Meeting for 8-E. Third Tuesday.

7:00 PM. SE Tennis and Learning Center, 701 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-5616616. 8e02@anc.dc.gov ●

236 Massachusetts Ave., NE Washington, D.C. 202-546-5311

Psychotherapy

We Bring Healthcare Home Nursing Services Personal & Home Care Aide

201 15th Street SE • Washington, DC 20003 202.293.2931 • www.asapservicedc.com CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 15

BULLETIN BOARD Fishing School, 4737 Meade St. NE. 202-973-8203. fergusonfoundation.org

AARP Highlands Chapter Monthly Meeting The AARP Highlands Chapter #4870 monthly meeting is held every second Wednesday of the month (except July and August) at noon in the Covenant Baptist Church (social hall), 3945 South Capitol St. SW. For more information, call Ms. Vera Abbott at 202-561-8611.

Community Workshop on Transportation Improvements for Far Northeast DC The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is inviting residents to participate in a Community Workshop on Saturday, Nov. 13, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM, to discuss the progress of the Far Northeast Livability Study.

This community workshop is the second to be held in the area and will provide a comprehensive review of the more than 60 concerns raised by the community to date.

DDOT will detail which streets the study plans to focus on moving forward, and to discuss the preliminary recommendations for those streets. Feedback from the community will help in finalizing the study. Kelly Miller Middle School, 301 49th St. NE DDOT studies and future information on the larger Livability Program may be found at ddot.dc.gov. Click on the “Livability Program” icon.

Hillcrest Recreation Center Fall Programming Hillcrest Recreation Center fall programming includes pilates, yoga, belly dancing, Tai Chi, Taekwondo, healthy walking, arts and crafts, basketball, flag football, soccer, ballet, tap, modern dance, sewing circle, card and board games, teen club. All programs are free.

3100 Denver St. SE. 202-645-9200. dpr.dc.gov THEARC Community Open House.

Fifth Anniversary Community Open House @THEARC On Saturday, November 6, 10:00AM-2:00 PM, take a tour of THEARC, see dance, music, and theatrical performances in the theater; play games in the gym; take part in story time in the library and get free fluoride varnishes for kids from Children’s Health Project of DC. Free refreshments. Great fun for the whole family! 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org

Trash Free Deanwood Trash Free Deanwood is project of the Trash Free Community campaign that aims to reduce trash in the Potomac River Watershed by 2013. Through community workshops and activities residents and stakeholders will understand personal and community behaviors that lead to littering, understand the impact of littering on the environment and quality of life, and initiate personal and community strategies to stop littering. Trash Free Deanwood Community Workshops are Nov. 9 and Nov. 23, 8:30 AM-12:30 PM, at The 16 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

Holiday Gala & Inaugural Silent Auction On Thursday, Dec. 2, the East River Family Strengthening Collaborative (ERFSC) will be celebrating 14 years of empowering families, youth and communities by hosting a Holiday Gala & Inaugural Silent Auction at Newton White Mansion in Mitchellville, MD. Tickets are $85.

ERFSC, a community action, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, provides critical services to Ward 7 residents whose lives are impacted by various socio-economic issues on a daily basis. All of the funds raised at this event will be used to support ERFSC’s work in our community. If you are interested in becoming a sponsor of this event, email haynesfrnklyn@aol.com or call Ms. Rosie Parke at 202-397-7300, ext 104. erfsc.org.

Relaunch of ARCH’s Artist Residency Program now accepting applications!

ARCH’s artist residency program is an opportunity for artists to pursue their creative projects amid DC’s vibrant and diverse urban environment. Two residencies (for up to 4 artists each session) are offered; spring and fall. The residencies are approximately 8 weeks each.

Each artist will work closely with the creative staff at the Honfleur Gallery and The Gallery at Vivid Solutions to determine the parameters of the residency and needs of the artist in advance of their arrival. These parameters will focus primarily on details of the artists’ project, but are also about how to best connect to the local community, foster dynamic interaction and develop exposure to the resources of the greater DC cultural community. The program will offer free housing and free workspace to participating artists. Application fee $25. The winter/spring deadline is December 1. Summer deadline is March 1. More details on how to apply, visit honfleurgallery.com. If you have questions. email arts@archdc.org.

202-536-8994.

team played Riverside Baptist. On Oct. 30, they held a festive family and community friendly homecoming parade followed by a tailgate party on the front lawn. FCA has achieved a 96% graduation rate and a 100% college and university acceptance rate. FCA is the first DC metropolitan area high school to establish an early college program and the first high school in the District to win the prestigious Epic Award presented by New Leaders for New Schools. It is the first charter high school to win a College Board Inspiration Award and the only DC high school to participate in the National Football Signing Day. Last year they had 10 seniors sign on to major colleges and receiving significant scholarship support. 202-396-5500. friendshipschools.org

The Washington Ballet and Urban Artistry Hip Hop Jam at THEARC

DDOT Presents Updated DC Streetcar Plan

On Nov. 19, 7:30-10:30 PM, show-off your skills in hip hop, break dancing, house, popping, locking or your own style of moves in the cypher with Urban Artistry! No experience required. UA company instructors will be there to teach you some new moves or just come and watch the fun! African, Modern, Jazz, Ballet and other students are welcome to participate. Live DJ. $10 ($ 5 for 12 and under). This is a family-friendly event. Please bring clean sneakers or dance shoes. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. thearcdc.org

The District Department of Transportation has presented an updated comprehensive DC Streetcar System Plan to the DC Council for review and approval. The plan details DDOT’s plans for the design, construction and operation of the system and covers topics such as operations, safety, fare collection, and funding. The document specifies how DDOT plans to complete the two streetcar lines already under construction, the H Street/Benning Rd Line and the Anacostia Initial Line Segment, and lays out the plans for additional extensions in Wards 7 and 8. It also includes the completed DC Transit Future System Plan – the District’s first comprehensive streetcar system plan.

DDOT is planning a 37-mile, 8-line streetcar system with service across the city. The complete plan is now posted at ddot.dc.gov/DCStreetcar.

Eastern Avenue Bridge Re-opens Eastern Avenue Bridge over Kenilworth Avenue (DC 295) has re-opened less than 10 months after the bridge was closed for a complete reconstruction. The new bridge was funded as a $10.4M stimulus project by the Federal Highway Administration. The now completed bridge provides higher clearances to Interstate traffic on Kenilworth Avenue and will improve traffic flow through the intersection of Eastern and Kenilworth Avenues.

East River Family Strengthening Collaborative has Moved East River Family Strengthening Collaborative moved to 3917 Minnesota Ave. NE effective Nov. 1. All phone numbers and email addresses remain the same. 202-397-7300. erfsc.org

Friendship Collegiate Academy Marks Tenth Anniversary

Byte Back Computer Courses

Friendship Collegiate Academy (FCA) celebrated its tenth anniversary with a very special homecoming celebration. On Oct. 29, their football

Byte Back provides high-quality computer courses to unemployed and underemployed residents of Washington, D.C. and the surrounding comCAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

17

munities. It also provides job readiness help including preparing for job interviews, developing resume writing skills and assistance with job search. It helps unemployed and underemployed residents obtain employment that pays a living wage. For a course catalog, call 202-529-3395 or visit byteback.org. Full and partial scholarships available. Byte Back is at 815 Monroe St. NE.

An Evening with Maya Angelou On Thursday, Nov. 11, 7:30 PM, see her live at the Warner Theatre, 13th St. NW, between E and F. One show only. Tickets start at $50. Buy tickets online at 800-551-7328 or online at livenation.com.

Humanities Council Grant Assistance Workshops Workshops are on Nov. 3, 6:307:30 PM, Humanities Council of Washington, DC, 925 U St. NW; Nov. 9, 6:30-7:30 PM, DCTVBrooks Mansion, 901 Newton St. NE; Nov. 16, 12:30-1:30 PM, Humanities Council of Washington, DC, 925 U St. NW; Nov. 23, 6:30-7:30 PM, Charles Sumner School, 1201 17th St. NW. Application deadlines are Dec.3, 5:00 PM, for preliminary applications and Jan.7, 5:00 PM, for final applications. For complete grant information, visit wdchumanities.org or call 202-387-8391.

Residential Street Cleaning Ends for Season Weekly residential mechanical street cleaning ended for the season on Friday, Oct. 29. “No parking/ street cleaning” restrictions will be lifted and motorists may park along posted, alternate-side, daytime street sweeping routes without being required to move their cars on streetcleaning days. Overnight sweeping scheduled for the District’s major roadways, which include Pennsylvania, Georgia, Constitution, and Independence Aves. will take place as usual all winter, as the weather permits. Motorists are urged not to park in these areas during the posted overnight sweeping hours.

Leaf Collection Begins Nov. 8 The 2010-2011 leaf season will run Nov. 8 through Jan. 15. During this time, leaves will be vacuumed from each street at least twice. New 18 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

brochures announcing the fall/winter leaf collection season will be mailed to residents. The 2010-2011 leaf collection schedule will be posted on dpw.dc.gov. You can view the schedule by selecting “Education and Outreach” and then “Brochures and Fact Sheets.”

Eastern Market. All items are on sale and all offers considered. Discounts available on bulk orders. Salvage yards and wholesalers welcome, but first come first served. Open Mon-Sat, 10:30 AM-6:00 PM. 202-265-0587. thebrassknob. com/backdoors

Serve.gov Online Source for Volunteer Opportunities

Application Available for 2011 Barbara Jordan Health Policy Scholars Program

Serve.gov is an online resource for finding volunteer opportunities in your community.

President has said that the challenges America faces are unprecedented, and that we need to build a new foundation for economic growth in America. Economic recovery is as much about what you’re doing in your communities as what we’re doing in Washington – and it’s going to take all of us, working together.

The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation is accepting applications for the 2011 Barbara Jordan Health Policy Scholars Program. This intensive summer program provides college students with an opportunity to work on policy issues in a congressional office and to engage in original health policy research and analysis under the guidance of Foundation research staff.

College seniors and recent college graduates who have a strong interest in addressing racial and ethnic health disparities or who are themselves a member of a population that is adversely affected by racial and ethnic health disparities are eligible to apply. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens who will be seniors or recent graduates of an accredited U.S. college or university by the fall of 2011. Individuals with a graduate degree and those individuals currently enrolled in a graduate degree program are not eligible to participate.

The application deadline is 5 p.m. ET on Friday, Dec. 3, 2010. Application materials and more information are available online. For questions, please contact Cara James, program director at the Kaiser Family Foundation at 202-347-5270 or contact Jomo Kassaye, program manager at Howard University at 202-238-2385. kff.org

ENERGY STAR® Appliance Rebate DC residents who replace an existing appliance with a new ENERGY STAR® appliance purchased on or after Oct. 25, may be eligible to apply for a rebate (no retroactive rebates will be allowed). Approved applicants will receive a check via mail. Rebates are not guaranteed and are given out on a first-come, first-served basis. This program ends as soon as funds are exhausted. 202-673-6733. green. dc.gov

Public Space Permits now Printable at Home The District Department of Transportation’s (DDOT) Transportation Online Permitting System (TOPS) now allows users to print permits at home. DDOT’s TOPS program debuted in April as a way to make the public space permitting process as easy as possible and has quickly become an on-line favorite for contractors and residents doing business in the city.

Residents needing a moving container, moving truck, debris container or other temporary public space occupancy or reserved parking permit may access TOPS through the DDOT website; register and establish their user ID; apply for their public space permit; and once the application is approved, make payment and print their permit; all online from the resident’s home or office computer. Payment can be made using either Visa or MasterCard. tops.ddot.dc.gov.

Brass Knob Back Doors Warehouse Closing Forever The Brass Knob Back Door’s Warehouse at 57 N St, NW is closing. It boasts one of the largest collections of architectural salvage and historic building materials and artifacts in the Mid-Atlantic region. The owners are liquidating the entire contents of the 20,000 square foot store. Once-in-a-life time deals are waiting to be discovered among the tens of thousands of items from antique Chestnut doors to signs from

Christmas Tea at the Willard Hotel Benefitting Joint Aid Management On Saturday, Dec. 4, noon-3:00 PM, experience an afternoon of elegance with your girlfriends at DC’s Willard Hotel. The Christmas Tea has become a Christmas tradition filled with special treats, laughter, fun and connecting with friends. All net proceeds benefit Joint Aid Management (www.jamusa.us), a non-profit helping Africa help itself. Register at capcitychurch. com/christmastea by November 29. Tickets are $55 (ages 4-12, $25). 202-234-3716.

FotoWeek DC Night Gallery Saturday, Nov. 6 through Saturday, Nov. 13, visitors will be treated to a dazzling display of large-scale projections of photographs selected from the collections of the National Museum of the American Indian. This year’s FotoWeek Night Gallery images highlight award-winning photography with contemporary themes of social and political importance. Images will be displayed on the Museum’s west wall facing Fourth St. SW. National Museum of the American Indian, Fourth St. and Independence Ave. SW. 202-633-1000. nmai.si.edu ●

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 19

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

The Real Vincent C. Gray Relative Newcomer to District Politics Takes Helm as City’s Mayor

article by Michelle Phipps-Evans | photos by Andrew Lightman

W

Gray relaxes with his cat, Samurai, in the kitchen of his gracious Hillcrest home.

ard 7 Councilmember Yvette Alexander remembers her first time encountering the man who would become the sixth mayor of the District of Columbia, Vincent Condol Gray. It was the early ‘90s, and she was at a memorial at Rankin Chapel, at Howard University, for Ray, a friend who passed suddenly.

Ray was an employee at the D.C. Department of Human Services, and the agency’s director was delivering a moving speech.

“I remember thinking, ‘Wow,’ either Ray is very important or that Vincent Gray is sincerely a concerned, compassionate guy,” Alexander said.

“You hardly ever see an agency head attend an employee’s funeral. Far less say anything. He wasn’t even his supervisor.” Afterwards, Alexander headed over to Gray to tell him how much she appreciated what he said.

“I wasn’t sure I’d ever see him again,” she added, “but I wanted him to know. “ Almost 20 years have passed, but this incident still resonates with Alexander, even as she works with her Ward 7 neighbor on the Council dais.

This simple act showed her who Gray was—and is—beyond the politician.

Another person who experienced his compassion firsthand is his brother-in-law, Kenneth Goodson. After suffering his first heart attack in 1993, Goodson said, “Vince was the first person there,” at the hospital to visit, even before his parents or his younger sister, Gray’s wife, Loretta, who passed away in 1998.

“I tell people, this isn’t just my brother-in-law,” Goodson said. “This is my brother.”

20 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

psychology, and where he pledged in the Tau Epsilon Phi fraternity, Gray attended Paul Laurence Dunbar Senior High School. Known as Vint, he was involved in activities including first baseman on the baseball team, major in the Cadet Corp, president of the chemistry club, vice president of the senior homeroom, and more. On his senior photo, he wrote he wanted to be a pediatrician.

That was a mistake, he realized, especially after he saw the way “they carved up a cat in Anatomy class.”

“The scientific aspect was interesting,” he said about becoming a doctor, “but I can’t stand the sight of blood.”

Hillcrest resident and community activist, Carrie Thornhill, then Lee, was two years behind Gray at Dunbar.

“I have been looking up to, and admiring Vincent Gray since our high school days,” Thornhill said. “He was a commanding personality. He was tall, handsome, smart, gregarious, yet humble and caring. He demonstrated his leadership abilities in the classroom, as an officer with the ROTC and on the baseball field.”

Professional Life

Gray addresses supporters on Capitol Hill.

Longtime Ward 7 resident, Paul Savage, has known Gray for more than 20 years.

“Vincent Gray, to his credit, is not a classic politician,” said Savage who lives in the Hillcrest neighborhood, where Gray has lived for 25 years.

“He came to elected office rather late. [He is] a man of impeccable honesty and integrity. As a politician, what makes Vincent Gray successful is his ability to build consensus and coalitions.”

Another friend and neighbor, Miles Steele III, said Gray’s public life saw a “meteoric rise to the top,” which began in 2004 when he ran against and beat then-Ward 7 councilmember, Kevin Chavous.

In 2006, he won Council chair after Linda Cropp vacated the seat to run for mayor. Then recently, he ran as the Democratic candidate for mayor, which he won.

“I like his professional demeanor, ethical conduct and his management skills,” Savage added.

“These skills will be tested mightily during the next four years when he becomes our mayor.”

This compassionate side of the 67-year-old Gray may surprise those who glean their knowledge about him from the newspapers. However, to friends and family, this is the caring, attentive and funny man they know.

“When you get to know him,” Goodson said, “he loves to tell jokes. He loves this city. And he loves those Redskins.”

Alexander agreed. “He is serious but he’s an approachable man with a big heart. ”

Listening to the People It was a warm Sunday morning in October.

Gray was wearing a dark-colored V-neck sweater, with a white shirt peeping out as he casually walked into Denny’s on Benning Road, NE, for an early afternoon breakfast. His presence was not lost

on patrons, many returning from church, and the owners, that the city’s second most powerful politician was dining comfortably at Denny’s among the residents who elected him.

As he ate, a 40something-year-old man hollered from his seat, three tables away, “Chairman Gray, we’re glad you’re in there. We needed to get Fenty out.” A woman interrupted him to endorse an agency head she works with. “We’re happy with her, I thought you should know that,” she said. Another asked if he could take a photo of the chairman with his cell phone. With each, he was gracious, responsive and attentive.

Gray joked that the job as Council chairman cannot compare to his pending job as mayor.

“I thought I used to be in the public eye on the Council, but this is far more than that,” he said about becoming mayor on Nov. 2.”It’s absolutely something else.” A Scorpio, Gray will celebrate his Nov. 8, birthday as the new mayor.

Growing up Gray grew up in a one-bedroom apartment in northeast Washington. His older brother, James, is 12 years his senior. His mother, Elizabeth, was from North Carolina and his father, James, from Southern Maryland. Neither finished high school.

“My father worked his way up as far as he could go,” Gray said, at his job at Freedman’s Hospital.

“He drove a taxi cab at night. He wanted us to do better.” His mother, a homemaker, “never had to work a day in her life.” His father died when he was 19.

Gray’s mother died seven years ago, one year before he won the Ward 7 seat.

Before attending George Washington University to earn a bachelor’s and completeing all the coursework toward his master’s degree in clinical

One decision he regrets was not pursuing professional baseball, especially when he had an opportunity to try out with two major league teams.

Afterwards he said, ‘I will not make another decision based on anxiety.’” That may have been a reason he accepted the job to head up the Department of Human Services under Mayor Sharon Pratt Kelly. The dysfunctional agency had 10 directors in 12 years. It was his leadership there, between 1991 and 1994, which his Democratic opponent, Adrian Fenty, tried to use to paint Gray as moving the city backward to when the government was arguably at its worst.

“It engenders resentment on the part of the people,” he insisted, “trying to portray me as a Marion Barry person. I never worked for Marion Barry.” Heading up the agency was challenging, but he saw an “opportunity to do something important for the people.”

While there, he developed his belief that “a paycheck is fine but there are other important things that make people feel appreciated,” he said. “On so many days, you ask staff to go above and beyond the call of duty.” During his tenure as Council chair, he hosted the first-of-its-kind, summer backyard barbeque at his home to mark his staff ’s years of service, and to simply say thanks.

“I think it’s a good move,” said Venious Parker, the longest-serving staffer at 36 years. “We’ve never been to anyone’s home.”

Gray’s reputation for his advocacy for the developmentally disabled at the Association for Retarded Citizens of DC, (now the Arc) is widely known. But Goodson said he remembered how the Kennedy and the Shriver families were impressed

by Gray’s work with Special Olympics. Later, he became founding executive director at Covenant House Washington, a faith-based, nonprofit serving homeless and at-risk youth.

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 21

Gray looks on as one of his teammates on the Dragons hits a home run.

During his decade there, he helped shape it into one of the most effective of its kind, leading a $6.5 million campaign to build a new community service center in southeast.

“I thought, what a challenge,” he said. “I was among its first staff; now it has 21 different locations. I was loving every minute of it.” Here, he further honed his compassion for the young, and encouraged them to use their voice. He has chaired monthly Council youth hearings with ongoing participation from the youth.

Animal Activist 22 H EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

So, this is Vincent C. Gray—a man who shows compassion for the mentally challenged, the homeless, economically and socially depressed individuals and at-risk youth. But there is one more group he strongly advocates for—animals.

For that, he is grateful to Loretta, who stood with him through 27 years of marriage and two children, Jonice and Vincent Carlos.

Mrs. Gray was a teacher at Winston Education Center in the D.C. Public School System.

“My wife was an animal activist,” Gray said. “We’ve always had cats and dogs around the house.

“I like his

Friends of Fort Dupont Ice Arena

professional demeanor, ethical conduct and his

management skills,” as stated

by Paul Savage.

She found our cat on the street.”

Samurai, who is about 16, is a streetwise cat, Gray said. Gray became a member of the Washington Humane Society’s board.

“My sister loved animals” Goodson recalled. “She would adopt animals, people, anybody who was downtrodden.”

Goodson said he remembered when, in 1964, he met a young, “cool guy,” that his kid sister brought to their northeast home.

“He came in an MG convertible so I thought he was flashy.

But after meeting him, I began to think, “how could he be so young, so driven.” Gray was 24.

The next thing, Goodson recalled, the entire family was watching Gray play football in the fall; then basketball in the winter.

Then, when he thought it was all done, baseball in the spring.

After his sister and Gray were married June 19, 1971, at St. Augustine Catholic Church on V Street, NE, Goodson said they worked well together, and for long hours, mainly on issues for people with mental disabilities.

“They were a charming couple,” said Goodson, “Vince and Loretta could have easily been the Barack and Michelle Obama of their time.” Every year, for the past 12 years, according to Goodson, Gray puts his favorite picture of her in a July issue of The Washington Post’s obituary section, telling her how much she is missed and loved.

He said Gray is exactly what the District needs.

“I think the city needs somebody who cares, and wants to bring it together,” Goodson added. “The city is in need of healing.” l

FREE

foreclosure counseling credit repair homebuyer counseling tenant purchase counseling

Kids On Ice provides ice skating lessons to over 10,000 DC-area children each year. YOUR support through the CFC will help these children build confidence, boost their self esteem and live a healthier and more active lifestyle. Fort Dupont Ice Arena is the only year-round, indoor ice rink in D.C. with the only free, community skating program in the region.

Please designate CFC # 7193 to help.

Call 202-584-5007 or visit www.fdia.org for more information.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT (NON PROFITS ONLY)

UNIVERSITY LEGAL SERVICES Offices at Marshall Heights CDC

3939 Benning Road, NE | Washington DC 20019 202.396.1201x 131 | www.uls-dc.org

Various sizes available from 64SF to 143SF Great Downtown location - One block from Judiciary Square on the Metro Red Line Community Areas: • Conference Room—Seats 15 • Large Kitchen Area • Roof Top Patio • Private Elevator (Street Entrance) For additional information and to schedule a visit to “your” new office, please contact: Betty Washington on 202.347.0511 ext. 320

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM H 23

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS The Numbers

The Recession Strikes Again Poverty’s Rising But Revenues Are Falling

by Jenny Reed and Ed Lazere

J

ust two weeks after DC’s primary election, some troubling news arrived: thousands of DC families have been driven into poverty by the recession. Child poverty, in particular, has skyrocketed. Within days, we also learned that the District faces yet another budget shortfall due to falling tax collections, this time for the fiscal year that started October 1.

The challenges facing Mayor Gray are great — and he hasn’t even taken office yet.

How DC’s leaders choose to resolve our fiscal troubles will greatly affect how the city and its residents come out of the recession.

Mayor Fenty has imposed a hiring freeze and told agencies to hold back on other costs, giving him and the Council time to work out a more detailed budget-balancing plan. That plan will be presented, debated, modified and approved in the next month.

Some have argued for a cutsonly approach focused on education and human services. But reducing education spending could imperil the future of DC’s school reforms, and cutting human services funding would put the greatest burden on struggling families hurt most by the downturn, through reduction of services like child-care, affordable housing, or job training.

Moreover, children who don’t have three meals a day and a stable place to sleep often don’t succeed in school, and family stress from pov-

erty can result in higher incidences of child neglect. In other words, there’s a high cost to poverty, and it’s not simply financial.

It’s time for the District to take a more balanced approach.

Additional cuts in services are inevitable, but revenue increases are needed, too. Both Gray and the new Council Chair, Kwame Brown, have acknowledged the possible need for tax increases. Unlike its neighbors, DC has not raised any of its core taxes in a meaningful way in the recession. And due to tax cuts made before the recession, taxes paid by most DC households are the lowest in the region. Some kind of tax increase, focused on those most able to pay, is reasonable at this point.

Rising Unemployment and Poverty It’s not hard to understand why poverty is on the rise. The District hit a record-setting 12 percent unemployment rate at the start of 2010, as tens of thousands of residents lost their jobs. Many of these workers were living paycheck to paycheck and had little financial protection when the economic tsunami hit.

The impact of the recession has been especially devastating for some of our neighbors. Three in 10 DC children now live below the poverty line, less than $22,000 a year for a family of four. And 14,000 more District residents fell into deep poverty — reporting

24 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

income below half of the poverty line — in just two years. This increase means that one in ten DC residents now live on less than $11,000 a year.

Can you even imagine trying to live in DC on less than $11,000 a year?

Falling Tax Collections, Big Budget Shortfalls It’s important to keep DC’s rising economic insecurity in mind as we turn to another troubling number — the $175 million budget shortfall. It’s not hard to understand how this happened, either. High unemployment means people are earning and spending less. The downturn also walloped the savings of many residents, reducing capital gains income. As a result, the city is collecting less in income and sales tax revenue to support basics like schools, public safety, and parks and recreation centers.

Falling revenue collections have lead to successive rounds of budget cuts over the past three years. As presumptive Mayor Vincent Gray recently said: “We have not only cut to the bone, we are down to the bone marrow.” A closer look at the largest parts of DC’s budget shows that health and human services have been cut the most despite dramatic increases in need for assistance. As one example, the city is now at a point where it cannot provide emergency shelter to all families with children who literally have no place to go, not even a friend’s couch.

The risk we take with cutting even more is it might go beyond the bone and hit an artery—and the impact for our city could be catastrophic. The hiring freeze – if maintained – would mean important initiatives cannot be fully implemented. The Healthy Schools Act – which aims to improve the nutritional content of school meals -- cannot be launched. The Fire Department can’t maintain staffing, potentially leading to higher overtime costs. Council member Catania’s hope to improve mental health services for DC’s stressed children cannot go forward. New libraries will continue to be understaffed. The list goes on.

A Balanced Approach: Revenue Increases and Budget Cuts The solution to these problems isn’t easy or short-term. Despite falling tax collections, it’s important to maintain investments in our neighbors and in the

services that are fundamental to DC’s quality of life – and therefore to our future. Given that, is it really unreasonable to try to preserve funding for education and other services, even if that requires some level of tax increase?

Look at our neighbors. Maryland has raised income and sales taxes. The Virginia suburbs have raised property tax rates. What about the District? The only increase in one of DC’s major revenue sources is a temporary ¼ cent increase in our sales tax. Meanwhile, the city spent much of the past decade cutting property taxes for businesses and residents and cutting income taxes.

That leaves us at the point where taxes for middle-income families are now the lowest in the region. Areport from the DC Fiscal Policy Institute shows that a DC family of four earning $100,000 pays more than $2,000 less in income and property taxes than families in Fairfax, Arlington or Montgomery counties and more than $4,000 less than families in Prince George’s – primarily due to the city’s very low residential property taxes. DC’s income taxes also are lower than in Maryland and only a bit higher than in Virginia at this income level.

It doesn’t matter if you live in Palisades, Petworth or Penn Branch—we all want a city that provides a good quality of life and opportunities for everyone to succeed. Simply taking a cuts-only approach to our budget will make it harder for our neighbors to get back on their feet in the still-shaky economy, which means less income and sales tax revenue, more strain on social services, and less money for teachers, trash collection, bike lanes—you name it.

Taking away these opportunities jeopardizes the past investments we have already made and the future prosperity of our city. By maintaining our investments in education, providing literacy and job training for our out-ofwork neighbors, and keeping the quality of life in our city strong, we can help prevent the economic divides in our city from growing even more – and ensure we all come out the recession stronger.

Reed and Lazere are staff of the DC Fiscal Policy Institute (www.dcfpi.org), which conducts research on tax and budget issues that affect low- and moderate-income DC residents. ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 25

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

A Harvest for the Wards Healthy Solutions Produce Cooperative hosts Fall Harvest Festival

by Karen Jones

Two apple lovers pick from the fresh fruits and vegetables.

Pumpkin decorating from the Pumpkin Patch!

26 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

T

he crisp, sunny, autumn day could not have been better for the First Annual Fall Festival held in Ward 7’s Marvin Gaye Park on Oct. 30, 2010. Founder of Healthy Solutions Produce Cooperative, Tannika Cunningham hosted this event and rolled out the red carpet for health.

This was a spin-off from the co-op’s Summer Festival held earlier this year. The goal of the Fall Festival was to promote education, access to resources, and employment opportunities through the concept of nutrition and healthy lifestyle choices. The event provided children and families the opportunity to shop with cash or WIC vouchers in their open-air market filled with fresh, organic produce and snacks; play flag football and soccer; decorate pumpkins; partake in face painting; and enjoy other fun and physical activities that promote healthy living.

Healthy Solutions Produce Cooperative was founded in 2005 and established as an actual co-op in 2008. Tannika explained that the co-op is a family run establishment originating in Ward 8, SE, DC. The family briefly relocated to North Carolina where they distributed produce to schools and prisons. Upon their return to DC, Tannika saw an even greater need for the development and distribution for fresh organic produce. Hence, the creation of the “Freggie Box”, created by her 8 year-old daughter. “Freggie Boxes” are a combination of fresh vegetable and fruits that are sold and distributed at the Benning Terrace Market in the Riverside area of DC. In addition, the co-op has another program that provides mentoring and education to youth 12-18 years of age. The “Healthy and Sustainable Food Development Center,” managed

by Derrick Smith, provides opportunities to foster new African American farmers. Through this program, humorously referred to as the ‘Boys Club,’ Tannika explained, youth are immersed in the seed-to-table process of farming to include preparation and distribution. For example, Chef Jane and the ‘Boys Club’ were

Ward 8 Farmer’s Market HEALTHY FOOD, HEALTHY COMMUNITY Fresh produce from local farmers, plants, art, food-preparation workshops, children activities, nutrition, give-always, music and more...

EBT, Snap Cards, WIC CVC & Senior Coupons accepted

Saturdays Derrick Smith and one of “The Boys Club” members serve a healthy, balanced meal.

able to provide and serve an organic, healthy meal of Eggplant Parmesan, Steamed Okra & Peppers, Butternut Squash, Yams and Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Pies. The health conscious concepts permeated the event as Autumn, the coach for the flag football team, expressed concern that not many adults take the time to demonstrate and support youth in appropriate sportsmanship, teamwork, and other activities that promote healthy competition.

Other sponsors included DC Chartered Health, and The Community College of the District of Columbia’s (CCDC) Health Education Team. Mr. Isadore Melton, a DC Paramedic expressed being very satisfied with taking free classes three times a week through the CCDC to become a Community Health Worker. While the event of-

fered cooking demonstrations, pie contests, and a Town Hall Meeting, the sparse attendance did not support all of these activities. However, Ms. Tannika Cunningham was not discouraged. She expressed being more than willing to keep educating and collaborating with the goal of establishing more drop-off spots in DC, especially at the new Big Chair Restaurant.

9:00 am to 2:00 pm @ United Medical Center Front parking lot - 1310 Southern Ave. SE Ward8FM@gmail.com www.Ward8FarmersMarket.com

Karen R. Jones is a Ward 8 resident, parent of two and has served as a human/social services worker in many capacities for the past twenty years.

She currently provides quality assurance, training coordination and programmatic consultation to individuals and non-profits in the DC metro area Karen can be reached via email mochaink@gmail.com or clinicallyspeaking@gmail.com. ●

Healthy Solutions DC Produce Cooperative 447 Valley Avenue SE Washington, DC 20032 1.888.415.COOP (2667) www.healthysolutionsgroup.org (for information) www.producecoop.com (for orders)

Washington Parks & People: Farmers Markets Riverside Farmer’s Market Riverside Center 601 Division Avenue NE Washington, DC Email: info@washingtonparks.net CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

27

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

W hen Langston Golf Course A historic photo of Roy Botts, Joe Louis, Charles Sifford and Tex Guillory proudly graces the wall of the club house.

opened in 1939 to accommodate black golfers at a time when DC’s federallyowned and privately-managed courses were segregated, it was the beginning of a long struggle for survival.

article by Selby McCash | photo by Andrew Lightman

Robert Gales completes a swing.

Langston was shut down on several occasions as financial losses mounted and poor conditions deteriorated even more. Built partly on an abandoned landfill, old timers remember when a hard rain would leave discarded tires and other rubbish exposed on the weedy fairways. But Langston always reemerged to continue the struggle under new management.

Today the scene is much different at the hilly, 156-acre facility located off Benning Road on the north side of RFK Stadium.

The contemporary Langston Golf Course is rated among the country’s better publicly-owned courses. While lacking the means to reach a country club-level of gentrification, today’s Langston is nevertheless characterized by dramatically-improved playing conditions; a reconfigured layout some golf pros say has championship potential; a well-scrubbed if aging clubhouse; landscaping projects enhancing scenic views; environment-friendly maintenance, earning Audubon Society certification; a range of community outreach programs, especially for youth; low user fees, and its designation as a federal historic site for its galvanizing role in the lobbying and demonstrating that led to the desegregation of all DC courses in 1941.

This is the good news. Langston also faces some breaking news that threatens to deprive the northeast facility of a critical source of income and bring 27 years of relative financial security and steady improvements to an end, according to Jimmy Garvin, a former Howard University baseball standout who rose from the ranks to become president and part owner of Golf Course Specialists, Inc. Over the objections of Garvin and other concerned observers, the NPS has decided to put a stand-alone contract up for bids for DC’s oldest, busiest and

Langston Golf Course Future Jeopardy in

New contract could end revenue sharing that sustains the course 28 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

CLOCKWISE from top left: 1. Ray Savoy comments corrects Tony Burnett’s form. 2. A player tees up at the 25th Annual Capitol City Open.

3. Jimmy Garvin, President of Golf Course Specialists and Manager at Langston. 4. Football dominates the discussion in the Langston Club House.

only consistently-profitable golf venue at East Potomac Park by next spring.

If a rival company should win the bidding for a separate East Potomac Park contract, it would end revenue sharing between DC’s one relativelyaffluent golf site and the two operating in the red and leave the incumbent management firm without sufficient income to remain financially viable or to maintain, let alone upgrade, the courses at Langston and Rock Creek Park, Garvin contended.

For the past 27 years, Golf Course Specialists has managed DC’s three golf sites under National Parks Service (NPS) concessioner contracts. The firm was already managing the East Potomac and Rock Creek courses when called upon to rescue Langston in 1982 after Langston’s concessioner, famed former PGA Tour player Lee Elder, threw in the towel as red ink deepened and the course and clubhouse fell into extreme disrepair. It was profits from East Potomac Park that enabled Golf Course Specialists to bring Langston back from the brink of a permanent shut-down.

The firm has relied on the multicourse complex at East Potomac Park to underwrite historic losses at Langston and Rock Creek Park ever since, including the transfer of more than $360,000 over the past year.

The East Potomac Park contract expired two years ago. Since then, the NPS has administratively extended the old contract on a month-by-month basis while considering the issues. To ensure the continuation of unified management and revenue sharing, Garvin

and others have urged the park service to continue extending the East Potomac Park contract until all DC golf contracts can be bundled into one, logically in 2015 when all have expired.

“As an historical and recreational oasis for African Americans for many years, Langston is a resource unmatched anywhere in America,” observed U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay, Jr. (D-MO), a member of the Congressional Black Caucus who has taken an interest in Langston’s civil rights legacy.

“Revenue sharing is absolutely essential,” asserted Ward 5 DC Councilman Harry Thomas, Jr., whose ward includes Langston. “It could be really bad for Langston if cut off from East Potomac Park,” said Earl Riggs, a Springfield, Virginia businessman who has played at Langston since the mid-1970’s.

Garvin cites two reasons why he believes letting a separate East Potomac park contract is riskier than in the past.

One reason is the expectation of greater

competition, increasing the chances of ending up with divided management.

The other is the disadvantage Garvin believes his firm faces. While challengers would base their bids on projected profits from East Potomac Park, Golf Course Specialists’ bid would be based on the projected deficits of the two lessprosperous properties it would continue to manage as well as the profits anticipated from the well-off property up for grabs. This would give challengers an advantage in bidding a higher federal franchise fee, he reasoned.

The NPS disagrees. The federal agency has determined the Langston and Rock Creek Park courses would have a “reasonable opportunity” to make a go of it on their own if necessary, NPS Business Services Director Steve LeBel explained. The park service plans to merge the contracts in 2015, he disclosed. But, he added, “it would hardly be fair” to other potential bidders to freeze the competitive process

during the interim.

The NPS decision was reached after a “thorough analysis,” LeBel said.

The agency has “miscalculated,” Garvin responded, saying the analysis fails to adequately factor-in the economic slump and reaches overly-optimistic conclusions about the expanding player base. Both sides agree the improved courses and increased tourism will expand DC’s share of the area’s golfing public. In fact, Langston’s playing base has gradually become bigger and more diverse in recent years. The question in dispute is whether Langston can realistically achieve self-sufficiency in the immediate future or whether that day is still a few big improvements and a few years away. .

Clay has introduced a resolution recognizing Langston’s history, drawing attention to the contractual issue in Congress. Thomas has written the NPS asking the agency to reconsider. Riggs is organizing a letter-writing campaign

by Langston regulars. Garvin continues to plead his case with NPS officials. So far, he said, “they haven’t listened.” ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 29

History of “East of the River” Exhibit article & photos by John Muller

Introducing Fine EAST OF THE RIVER Living by ANACOSTIA RIVER REALTY

Principal Broker/Owner Darrin D. Davis

202-678-REAL (7325) 2412 Minnesota Ave. SE Ste. 204 Washington, DC 20020 www.AnacostiaFineLiving.com Additions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Basements Renovations • Decks • Patios • Porticoes Painting • Fine Carpentry Custom Bookcases & Built Ins • Murphy Beds Mantels • Furniture Restoration & More

Over

25 years experience

Grace Custom Build Professional Remodeling & Design

240-550-3177 gracecustombuild@yahoo.com Licensed & Insured • References

30 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

“East of the River: Continuity of Change”, a collection of maps, paintings, diagrams. newspaper articles, historic and recent photos and a running video which features community commentaries about Far Southeast will be on exhibit at the Historical Society of Washington (801 K Street NW) until January 2011.

C

ontemporary history of East Washington is being transformed before our own eyes as we live, work, and engage our community, which has seen small yet important incremental changes in 2010.

For the past year, the Historical Society of Washington has hosted a gallery that examines the history of our community going back more nearly four centuries ago when the first settlers arrived. In a partnership with the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum, the Historical Society, located at the historic Carnegie Library at 801 K Street NW, will continue to exhibit “East of the River: Continuity of Change” until the middle of January 2011.

Complete with a collection of maps, paintings, diagrams, newspaper articles, historic and more recent photos, and a running video which features community commentaries about Far Southeast, the “East of the River” exhibit, touching on the cultural, social, political, religious, and economic dynamics of East Washington, is a learning experience not to be missed or overlooked.

From the native Nacotchtank tribe that built the first communities along the East-

ern Branch of the Potomac River to the early European settlers of the 1600’s to the Resident Bill of 1790 to growth of the Village of Good Hope in the early 19th century to the Civil War to growth of Saint Elizabeth’s Hospital to the modernization of transportation to the 1966 summer riots in Anacostia, the exhibit reveals insights to a broad and complicated history of East Washington.

While not ignoring the violence that has come to dominate the perceptions of the area’s more recent history, the exhibit touches on the racial strife of the community during the 1950’s when white students from Eastern High School marched on Anacostia protesting its integration. A yearbook photo from the 1956 class of John Phillip Sousa Junior High School, with students dressed in formal attire, shows a diverse student body that now seems very far removed the present.

As change continues to impact the future of East Washington, this inclusive exhibit shows that change is what has defined the area since its earliest history. “East of the River: Continuity of Change” is free and open to the public on Tuesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. ●

Living Local, Viva Local

Spirit of Jamaica in DC artcle & photos by Veronica O. Davis

Animal Clinic of Anacostia Candace A. Ashley, DVM

Negril Bakery located at the Good Hope Shopping Center.

20 years of serving Capitol Hill (minutes from Capitol Hill & Southwest via 11th Street Bridge)

2210 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, SE

202.889.8900 American Express, MasterCard, Visa & Discover accepted

Negril has the best rum cake I’ve tasted in a while.

Tracey working hard to serve the customers.

A

other favorites are: Rum Cake: When going to Negril with friends they always ask me to try a piece and I always tell them to get their own. There is no such thing as taking one bite or splitting this cake, so just order your own. The texture can only be described as if an angel cake and pound cake had a baby and cotton candy as a grandparent. It’s a light and fluffy cake that melts in your mouth.

Curry Goat: I first tried the curry chicken and thought it was okay. Then I tried the curry goat. The meat is so tender it is literally falling off the bone. The curry goat comes with rice and peas, and a small salad. Even with a hearty appetite, it is enough food for two meals.

Plantains: They take a little longer to cook, so be prepared for the extra wait.

However, as the adage goes “the best things come to those who wait.” I am picky about my plantains and these make a nice treat to end a hearty meal.

I’ve been back several times since then.

At one point I was there a few times a week, which gave me an opportunity to get to know the woman behind the cash register, Tracey.

Nothing like walking in and being greeting with “Hey Sweetie, what can I get you today?”

Some times I eat at one of the four high top tables and other times I take it to go. I highly recommend Negril and please say hi to Tracey when you go.

lthough I was born in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area, I spent most of my childhood in Northern New Jersey. If you ever been to that area of New Jersey, you know that area loves celebrating ethnic pride when it comes to food, be it an Italian pizzeria, an Irish pub, a Greek diner, a Jewish bakery or a Caribbean restaurant. Since I’ve lived in DC, it’s been hard finding eateries that match the taste of the ones I frequented as a child.

When I first moved here I was craving a beef patty and coco bread. I passed a Caribbean eatery at the Good Hope Shopping Center and decided to stop in to address my craving. The food left much to be desired. There is nothing worse than eating a bad version of the food you are craving. The eatery closed a few months later.

Last year a new Caribbean eatery called Negril opened at 2863 Alabama Ave SE. Based on my experience with the eatery that was there previously, I was not in a rush to give the new restaurant a try. After urging from a neighbor I finally went in. I ordered a Jerk Chicken Sandwich. A couple minutes and my order was up. Like it was Christmas morning, I ripped open the aluminum foil to reveal a shredded jerk chicken with lettuce tucked neatly inside coco bread. It passed the smell test. I took a big bite and it definitely passed the taste test as well. The spice from the jerk chicken blended perfectly with the sweet flavor of the coco bread. Absolutely scrumptious! That sandwich propelled Negril to my Places to Eat in DC lists. Some of my

Veronica O. Davis is a resident of Ward 7 and manages the blog, Life in the Village (http:// fairfaxvillage.blogspot.com) ●

202-544-6060

1308 Constitution Ave., NE the

Center for Traumatic Stress Studies, PLLC Thoughtful treatment of trauma, depression, and stress

Judy B. Okawa, Ph.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist, jokawa@gmail.com Therapy, psychological evaluations, consultation and training CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 31

A Theory Of Jazz Jazz can be enigmatic, an alchemy of mysterious sounds and moods that is spontaneous and yet deliberate in its free flowing creativity. The music can be complex, but good jazz feels as simple as first love—it goes straight to the heart and rests there, beating gently.

At times, the music can be so life-like that it speaks to you with honesty and love. One still gets a keen sense of understanding of the complexity of the music. There is such a high note of haughtiness, perhaps a natural aristocracy from a kind of inbred austerity about jazz that puts it in a class by itself, elevating one to a higher ground of one’s consciousness. It almost borders on elitism, and yet jazz strikes one as a beautiful music for everyone. And it is, especially for those of us who not only enjoy, but truly love, the music. True, most good jazz musicians more than likely think of jazz as the arbiter of modern music. And on a good day, I think they are correct.

You can walk in your door after a hard day’s work and a harrowing Metro ride, put on Sarah Vaughn and your world is transformed. Your mind clears, your body relaxes and suddenly life is pretty good. There’s no drug in the world that can do that.

Jazz is beautiful music.

by Jean-Keith Fagon Food: Quiet Inlet •••• Thomas Stronen & Iain Ballamy, ECM These fresh, appealing performances stand up well in their lyrical beauty and sublime spaciousness from the Food duo of Thomas Stronen (drums, live electronics) and Iain Ballamy (tenor and soprano saxs), joined by Nils Petter Molvær (trumpet) and Christian Fennesz (guitar) in concert at Oslo’s Blå club and the Molde Festival, in 2007 and 2008. On Quiet Inlet, Food’s sixth album, and their first for ECM, Austrian guitarist and electronics player Mr. Fennesz is featured on the tracks “Tobiko”, “Mictyris”, “Fathom”, while Norwegian trumpeter Mr. Molvær appears on “Chimaera”, “Becalmed”, “Cirrina” and “Dweller.”

Drum Lore •••• Owen Howard, bju records This is an outstanding release. According to drummer Owen Howard “Drum Lore” was developed from a project dedicated to exploring compositions exclusively by drummers. What is most striking is the radical clarity of texture which makes the music seem at once ultra-modern and shrewdly realized in terms of phrase and color, the result of each composer’s comprehen32 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

sive exploitation of the drum’s expressive capabilities. This 11-track album features “Bulgaria” (Peter Erskine), “Arboretum” (Tony Williams), “Duchess” (Billy Hart), “Zoot Suite” ( Jack DeJohnette), “It Should’ve Happened A Long Time Ago” (Paul Motian), “Togo” (Ed Blackwell), “The Chief ” (Al Foster), “45 Degree Angle” (Denzil Best), “Roundabout” (Owen Howard), “Stompin’ At The Savoy” (Chick Webb), and “Flip” (Shelly Manne).

Performers include Owen Howard (drums), John O’Gallagher (alto sax), Andy Middleton and Adam Kolker (tenor and soprano saxs), Alan Ferber (trombone), Frank Carlberg (piano), and Johanes Weidenmueller (bass).

Impromptu ••• Bob Mamet Trio, Counterpoint Records This is an enjoyable and relaxing album from the Bob Mamet Trio that could provide the necessary underpinning for a romantic evening. But then this is the perfect jazz music for just about any occasion. From the opening title track, “Impromptu” to “Cats on the Roof ” followed by “Until Morning,” there is no loss of praise for other songs on the album. Performers include Bob Mamet (piano), Darek Oles (bass) and Joe La Barbera (drums).

Officium Novum •••• Jan Garbarek & The Hilliard Ensemble, ECM On both the tenor and soprano saxophones, Jan Garbarek’s music contains glories and riches indeed -- an unending sense of intricacy and clarity from Norway’s (perhaps all of Europe) most subtle and distinguished con| NOVEMBER 2010

temporary musician. Truth be known, Mr. Garbarek with his highly distinctive tone -- “a desolate, stinging sound, floating in simplicity and haunting clarity” -- is undoubtedly one of the most original individualists on the saxophone to have emerged on the jazz scene since the ‘70s. Mr. Garbarek’s latest collaboration with the Hilliard Ensemble is an outstanding release. Rarely, if ever, have there been performances where soloist and ensemble connect with such unerring intuition, where the music is treated so naturally. The Hilliard Ensemble includes David James (countertenor), Rogers Covey-Crump (tenor), Steven Harrold (tenor), and Gordon Jones (baritone). Highlights include “Hays Hark Nviranats Ukhti,” “Litany/Otche Nash/Dostoino Est,” “Surb, Surb,” “Allelula. Nativitas,” and “We Are The Stars.”

grown-ups it’s perfectly good music for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries or generally feel-good-occasions with songs like “Country Road,” “A Winter’s Night,” “Sunshine,” and “By The Fire.”

Here. There …

Bossa Brazil & Mauricio De Souza Group, Pulsa Music This album has a heavy line-up of musicians (eight to be exact) but offers only a few noteworthy pieces like the title track “Here. There…,” “I Can’t Get Started,” “Windows,” and “Firm Roots.” Performers include Mauricio De Souza (drums), Mike Stern (guitar), Andrew Beals (sax), Gregory Revkin (trumpet/flugelhorn), Noah Haidu (piano), Carl Viggiani (piano), Jerry Weir (vibraphone) and Morrie Louden (bass).

Cold Sun ••• Yelena Eckemoff www.yelenamusic.com Pianist Yelena Eckemoff along with Mads Vinding (double-bass) and Peter Erskine (drums) are heard here with exceptional flair and finesse on some fine accomplished pieces like the title track, “Cold Sun,” “Scents of Christmas,” “Stubborn” and “Winter.”

Home ••• Jim Brickman, Somerset Entertainment A collection of country-flavored originals from pianist Jim Brickman that is full of nostalgia and sentimentality from favorites like “Thank You” (featuring Matt Giraud), “Welcome Home” (featuring Robin Meade), to the heartbreaking-save-my-soul/God bless America “Breathe, Dream, Pray, Love.” Strictly speaking, the album has a most appealing delicacy and engaging sense of innocence censored with great rhetorical and emotional power. For

This Could Be The Start Of Something Big ••• Andy Farber and his Orchestra, Black Warrior Records Jazz lovers might want to take a peek at Andy Farber’s (saxs) latest album for its back-inthose-years/Duke Ellington kind of music with that crowded dance floor of happy folks whispering the night away. Get into the spirit with that daring “The Man I Love,” the romantic “Midnight The Stars And You,” or that tender but melancholic “Body And Soul.” And for the truly sophisticated how about the favorite “Broadway” followed by the that goodnight kiss on the “52nd St Theme.”

All CDs and DVDS reviewed in this article are heard through Bowers & Wilkens 802D Speakers and ASW 4000 subwoofer, and Rotel Preamp 1070, amplifier 1092 and CD player 1072. CDs are available for purchase through amazon.com For more information about this column, please email your questions to fagon@hillrag.com. ●

The Combined Federal Campaign CFC National Capital Area Impacts Local Causes

by Heather Schoell

D

isposable income may have gotten the short end of the economic stick in households across America, but one thing we can count on is the generosity of federal workers through the Combined Federal Campaign of the National Capital Area (CFCNCA) to support charities – local, national, and international. Designate funds for your pet causes or let the pot divide equally – it’s your money and your choice, feds of the Hill.

CFCNCA, which began in 1961 under the direction on then-President John F. Kennedy, is a clearinghouse for federal giving. It is a regionalized campaign, and adheres to the guidelines for the national Combined Federal Campaign, set by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). The CFCNCA campaign is the only time that federal employees may be solicited by charities.

The smartest part about CFCNCA is that it acts as a catch-all for charity, and because it is one targeted campaign, rather than each charity’s advertising and soliciting, it narrows cost and time spent. They have an extremely low, fixed budget for operating costs, amounting to only 7.5% of revenue.

“This is set up to be a payroll deduction,” explained Ann Canela, CFCNCA’s Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications. “This is a workplace giving campaign. On the

giving side, people give more when it is a budgeted monthly deduction, a certain amount each month.” That’s really simple, but something we might not consider – $1,000 is a big check to write, but $83 per month is much more manageable. On the charity’s side, a steady monthly contribution allows them to budget – a huge advantage for managing and allocating funds in a realm that is largely at the mercy of charitable whims.

CFCNCA vs. CFC Not verses, really. CFC is the mama bear, broken into regional sections. CFCNCA covers the DC Metro Region, and vets local charities through an application process that ensures compliance with OPM’s standards for legitimate organizations.

CFCNCA raises funds from local federal workers, but also receives money from the CFC’s national federal worker allocations. “Last year our goal was $64,000, and we raised $67,000. This year our goal is $67,000,” said Canela.

“Local distribution last year was $26.1 million.” That is from the whole CFC campaign, of course, but our area truly benefits from this campaign.

If federal employees do not specify which charity or charities they wish to support, then their contribution goes to a general fund that is split among the designated charities.

Capitol Hill Restoration Society (CHRS) is in their first year as part of

CFCNCA. CHRS’ membership chair, Cathi Smith, went through the application process last year. “There was quite a lot of paperwork, but you can do it all online, so they make it really easy,” she said. “It was a pretty efficient process, and if you need help, there’s a number to call.” Smith applied by the January deadline, was notified in July that CHRS qualified, and received their CFC number in Aug. “We’re hoping that federal workers on Capitol Hill who are interested in historical preservation and protecting the historic character of the Hill will take the opportunity to give in this way.”

Targeted Giving Canela points out that some local charities do global work, and some are specific to the area. Many organizations on Capitol Hill are part of the CFC campaign, but maybe not all Hill feds have a local focus. “Charitable giving is inspired by their passion – that’s the great thing about this campaign,” she said. “There is something for everyone.”

It’s easy to search for your favorite charities. Go to cfcnca.org and click the pink box for e-Giving. On the next page, click Online Charity Search. This brings you to a box that will allow you to find exactly what you want to give to.

Let’s try keyword “teens,” mission scope being local only, proximity within 2 miles of zip code 20002. Click go and scroll down. Two results found – DC Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy and The H Street Community Development Corporation. Their overviews tell me their mission, location, CFC number, and the percentage that goes to their overhead.

Here’s a challenge: local, national and international charities with keywords matching “children”, with program areas matching “CEnvironmental Quality, Protection and Beautification”, and proximity within 10 miles of ZIP code 20003.

Friends of the National Arboretum

and National Building Museum were the results.

“Local, national, international – federal employees are going to give because they have the spirit of public service,” Canela said. “No one goes to work for the government to get rich.”

To sign up, you’ve got to be a federal employee. Go to cfcnca.org, sign up, pick your favorite charities, pick e-Giving to go paperless. Tell them how you want to do this – optimally by automatic monthly payments, but you can also choose a one-time payment. Submit it, and (if you’re e-Giving) you’re done!

What it Means to Them Capitol Hill Village is one of the local charities listed. How has CFC money helped them? “Do I kiss you now, or do I wait until this comes out,” joked Executive Director Gail Kohn.

“The CFC campaign is an opportunity for those who live on the Hill to focus their giving on the Hill. We basically break even (or not quite) on our membership – we want to keep it affordable,” she said. “We have to have gifts to sustain ourselves. We are thankful.

We focus the [CFC] contributions on low income Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW), Atlas Performing Arts Center, and Congressional Chorus give you the opportunity to support local arts.. CHAW has been listed with CFC for roughly 15 years. “The money we get helps provide tuition assistance,” explained the executive director of CHAW, Jill Strachan. “We gave about $60,000 in tuition assistance last year, and 90% of that is to children, to expose them to the arts.

The CFC money comes in throughout the year, which is helpful.”

If school improvement is your thing, Hands on DC beautifies our schools every year. Saint Coletta of Greater Washington, St. Peter’s Interparish School, and Cesar Chavez Public Policy Charter High School are on the list.

Unity Health Care, Capitol Hill Group Ministry and Manna are just a couple of local choices if advocacy for the underserved fires you up.

There is a charity to represent everyone’s passion, everyone’s issue. Designate your dollars, federal friends! ●

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 33

CFC LISTINGS Access Housing, Inc. CFC #22663 Access Housing, Inc. (DC) operates the Southeast Veterans Service Center and Chesapeake Veterans House in Southeast DC. This is a nonprofit agency dedicated to providing support services and housing to formerly homeless veterans. Both male and female veterans reside at the facilities. Veterans from all branches and wars have been served by the SEVSC; which celebrated its 10 year anniversary last November.

820-840 Chesapeake Street, SE, DC 20032, 202-561-8387, Accesshousingdc.org

The Arc of the District of Columbia CFC #35103 The Arc is a private, non-profit 501 (c)(3) membership organization serving persons with intellectual and their families since 1950. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for all persons with intellectual disabilities and their families through supports and advocacy. 415 Michigan Ave, NE, DC 20017, 202-636-2950, www.arcdc.net

Capital Area Food Bank CFC #30794, United Way #8052

They helped you, now it’s YOUR TURN to help them!

Walk for a Homeless Veteran at the Fannie Mae Help the Homeless Walkathon Saturday, November 20th, 2010 To Register to walk visit: www.helpthehomelessdc.org Register Under Access Housing, Inc(DC) Code DC002 For more information on how you can assist please call

202-561-VETS (8387) 9533

9533 22663

34 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

Get Involved!

| NOVEMBER 2010

For 30 years, CAFB has been the D.C. metro area’s hub for food sourcing, distribution and nutrition education - serving over 478,000 people struggling with hunger. Through direct service and a network of 700 nonprofit partners, the CAFB distributed 27 million pounds of food last year, including 10.8 million pounds of fresh produce. For more on hunger, visit our website at CapitalAreaFoodBank.org. 645 Taylor Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017, 202-526-5344, www.

CapitalAreaFoodBank.org

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington CFC#83997, UW#8054 Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington helps individuals and families overcome poverty and isolation in the District and Maryland. Annually, over 100,000 people receive help with housing, food, legal aide, physical and mental health, immigration and more.

We have 79 programs in 53 locations. www.

CatholicCharitiesDC.org

Coalition for the Homeless CFC #83436, United Way #8194 The Coalition for the Homeless was established in 1979. Our mission is to help transition homeless and at risk individuals and families in the Washington area to self-sufficiency through housing programs and supportive services. The Coalition fulfills its mission by operating 13 housing and shelter facilities. 1234 Massachusetts Avenue NW., Suite C-1015, Washington, DC 20005, 202-347-7279, www.dccfh.org

Friends of Fort Dupont Ice Arena CFC # 7193 Friends of Fort Dupont (FDIA) supports a wide variety of skating programs for District children, ages 5-18. Kids can enroll in group skating, and summer camp activities. FDIA partners with DC public schools to provide ice skating to students during the school day.The arena also has facilities for private parties. 3779 Ely Place, SE, 202584-5007, www.fdia.org

THEARC Help Us In Building Bridges Across The River at THEARC Building Bridges Across the River works to help improve the lives of people who reside East of the Anacostia River by overseeing the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC). Through a collaboration of partner organizations, THEARC provides access to quality educational, cultural, health, social service and recreational programs.

CFC# 97182 United Way, UWNCA#8884 Building Bridges Across the River (BBAR) @THEARC 1901 Mississippi Ave., SE Washington, DC 20020 (202) 889-5901 www.thearcdc.org

COALITION FOR THE HOMELESS Our mission is to help homeless, at-risk individuals and families return to self-sufficiency and independent living, through a range of residential and social services.

In 2009 the Coalition served

• 550 individuals and families daily.

• 344 individuals and families were placed into permanent housing • 194 adults were placed in jobs • 41 families with children were prevented from becoming homeless

Rebuilding lives and strengthening communities Please support us by donating through the 1234 Massachusetts Ave., NW Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) # 83436 Suite C-1015, Washington, DC 20005 or United Way #8194 Main Office: (202) 347-8870 / Fax: (202) 347-7279 Open Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm

For more details on our program and services, please visit our website at www.dccfh.org.

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 35

KIDS & FAMILY

Notebook

by Kathleen Donner The Washington Ballet at THEARC. Photo by Brianne Bland

The Washington Ballet @THEARC The Washington Ballet @THEARC works to enliven the beauty and discipline of dance in southeast Washington. Inaugurated in summer 2005, TWB at THEARC houses the southeast campus of The Washington School of Ballet and two unique community engagement programs, DanceDC and EXCEL! The space is equipped with two dance studios with pianos for live accompaniment, locker rooms, offices and use of the state-of-the-art THEARC Theater.

TWB at THEARC offers a pre-professional ballet program for children ages four through 18 as well as the adult program with classes in Modern, Hip Hop, Pilates, and African dance. Students enrolled in the program receive additional opportunities such as performing in The Nutcracker featuring The Washington Ballet.

TWB at THEARC also hosts a Summer Dance intensive, which allows children to foster their love for ballet while participating in programs with THEARC partners. 202-889-8150. thearcdc.org

36 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

Tutoring at Deanwood Library on Saturdays Your child can receive free tutoring from the DC Reads program this academic year.

DC Reads is a program based at Georgetown University that provides one-on-one literacy tutoring to children in elementary school.

Tutoring is on Saturdays from 10:30 AM-12:30PM at Deanwood Recreation Center Library.

To find out more, call DC Reads Director Nathanial S. Roloff, Center for Social Justice, Georgetown University. 202-687-0821.

Deanwood Library, 1350 49th. St. NE. 202-698-1175. dclibrary.org/ deanwood

Kids Euro Festival at THEARC Kolos is a master magician whose show includes incredible tricks, transformations, and all kinds of fun props. From simple children’s magic to mind-bending miracles, Kolos keeps the audience wondering just how he does it. Free. Saturday, Nov. 6, 1:00 PM at THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE 202-889-5901. kidseurofestival.org

Teen Studio at the National Gallery of Art On Saturday, Jan. 5, 10:00 AM-3:30 PM, spend a day at the National Gallery looking at works of art, experimenting with studio materials and techniques, and meeting other teens (grades 9 - 12) who are interested in art!

Led by artists and museum educators, each five-hour workshop includes gallery visits, group conversations, art instruction, and open studio time to experiment with materials and techniques and to create a work of art. Explore paintings by Edouard Manet and Pablo Picasso through drawing and movement techniques. Transform your drawings into colorful

paintings using a watercolor resist technique. Lunch and all materials are provided. Program is free but advance registration required.

Online registration begins January 5. For more information call 202842-6252, e-mail teens@nga.gov, or visit nga.gov/programs/teens

Young Readers Center at the Library of Congress Young people are encouraged to explore the center’s library of current and classic books, which can be read onsite. Adults can also read aloud to their children from a selection of preschool-appropriate books by the nation’s best authors and illustrators. This collection of books is noncirculating, and readers are encouraged to check with their school and local public libraries for copies that they can borrow and enjoy at home to complete their reading. Open weekdays (except federal holidays), 9:00 AM-4:30 PM. Thomas Jefferson Building, Room LJ G31 (ground floor), 10 First St. SE. 202-707-1950. read.gov/yrc

Parenting Classes at THEARC Every Wednesday THEARC offers free parenting classes.

Through a special relationship with Boystown, they are able to provide a comprehensive six week parenting class. You will learn how to communicate effectively with your child, avoid power struggles with your child, give positive attention, stay calm in frustrating situations, balance discipline with affection, and praise your child’s good behavior. Call 202-436-3060 for reservations and information.

Pioneers of Flight Family Day at Air and Space To celebrate the re-opening of the newly updated Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight Gallery, the National Air and Space Museum CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

37

is hosting a Family Day. Activities will focus on the 1920s and 1930s, formative decades in aviation when flight technology rapidly advanced; military and civilian aviation grew tremendously; record-setting and air racing captured public interest; African Americans began to breach the social barriers of flight; and modern rocketry was born. Free. Saturday, Nov. 20., 10:00 AM3:00 PM. Gallery 208. 202-633-1000. nasm.si.edu

National Award Celebrates District’s Food Service Director and Innovative Lunch Program

Community Child Development Center “A Child’s World for Learning”

District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) Food Services Director Jeff rey Mills has won a national award for his innovative approach to serving healthy, vegetarian lunch options in more than 120 schools in the nation’s capital. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), a national nonprofit organization that promotes healthy diets, has named Mills a winner in the 2010 Golden Carrot Awards. The award will be presented during this year’s National School Lunch Week, which runs from Oct. 11-15. A cash prize accompanies the award: PCRM will give $1,000 to benefit the schools’ innovative food service program.

DCPS offers a wide variety of nutritious, vegetarian meal options--including curried local fall vegetables with steamed brown rice, Moroccan bean and vegetable stew, and black bean burger on a whole wheat roll--with fresh salads offered daily.

Mills has introduced students to a variety of new fruits and vegetables this year through afterschool programs and a “Strawberries and Salad Greens Day” to kick off a celebration of fresh, high-quality, local food in school cafeterias. pcrm.org

Children’s Artwork for Wounded Marines Open Year round 6:30am to 6:00pm Ages 2 to 4 plus School age Developmentally Appropriate Programs Toilet Training • Certified Educators Hot Balanced Meals • Educational Field Trips Tuition Based on Income Two Locations 4021 Minnesota Ave NE Washington DC 20019

1105 50th St., NE Washington DC 20019

202-397-1170

202-397-8754

38 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

The National Museum of the Marine Corps is sponsoring a collection of original art to display at the Wounded Warrior wing of the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda. Children who wish to participate should draw a picture and write a supportive message on an 8 1/2x11 piece of paper. Artists should also write their name, hometown and grade level on the back of their picture. The Museum will accept drawings, paintings or colorings. All works must be submitted in a flat, rigid envelope, postmarked by Nov. 30, 2010.

The Wounded Warrior wings of the

National Naval Medical Center (NNMC) is a dedicated area for men and women recovering from injuries sustained in battle.

NNMC provides medical services for every injured Sailor and Marine returning to the continental U.S. from Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2003, NNMC has cared for more than 2,000 American uniformed service members wounded in war.

Mail submissions to: The National Museum of the Marine Corps; Attn: Teacher in Residence; 18900 Jefferson Davis Highway; Triangle, VA 22172-1938. For more information call 703-221-8430 or email daniels@marineheritage.org.

Americas Award for Children’s and Young-Adult Literature Announced Authors Julia Alvarez and Carmen Tafolla and illustrator Magaly Morales have received the 2009 Americas Award for Children’s and Young-Adult Literature.

The award is sponsored by the Consortium of Latin American Studies Program at the University of Wisconsin, the Library of Congress’s Hispanic Division and the Center for the Book. Julia Alvarez will be honored for her book “Return to Sender” (Alfred A. Knopf, 2009). Carmen Tafolla and illustrator Magaly Morales will be recognized for “What Can You Do With a Paleta?” (“Que puedes hacer con una paleta?”) (Tricycle Press, 2009). Morales, born in Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico, is an illustrator of children’s books known for her bright colors and a sense of play. She also illustrated “Chavela and the Magic Bubble” and “Piñata in a Pine Tree. uwm.edu/clasp

The White House Internship: A Public Service Leadership Program The White House Internship Program provides a unique opportunity to gain valuable professional experience and build leadership skills. This hands-on program is designed to mentor and cultivate today’s young leaders, strengthen their understanding of the Executive Office and prepare them for future public service opportunities. Applicant must be 18 years old and and US citizen. The Summer 2011 application and details will be posted on Nov. 8 on whitehouse.gov/about/internships/apply

First Lade Michelle Obama Honors M.O.M.I.E’s TLC For its effectiveness in developing cre-

Prepare Your Son for College ativity and fostering academic success by engaging young people in the arts and humanities, M.O.M.I.E’s TLC of Washington, DC was recognized with a prestigious national award by First Lady Michelle Obama at a White House ceremony in October. Chosen from a pool of almost 500 nominations and 50 finalists, M.O.M.I.E’s TLC was one of 15 after-school and out-ofschool programs across the country to receive the 2010 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award, the highest honor such programs can receive in the United States. The awards are administered by the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The award honors community-based arts and humanities programs that make a marked difference in the lives of their participants by improving academic scores and graduation rates, enhancing life skills, and developing positive relationships with peers and adults.

M.O.M.I.E’s TLC was recognized by Mrs. Obama for using engagement in the humanities and arts to build self-esteem, develop leadership skills, and improve academics. Founded in 2000, M.O.M.I.E’s TLC was created to nurture the genius of children through creative and culturally-relevant learning opportunities. Over the past 10 years, the organization has engaged more than 6,000 young people in all of its year-round cultural education Programs, including the After School and Summer Programs and the year-round Children’s Gallery of Black History. 202-545-1919. momiestlc.com

Youth APPLab Classes for Teens Youth APPLab is designed to teach Black and Latino high school students in DC how to design and create mobile Android applications (apps). Classes are

starting soon and will be held on the campus of Howard University. If you or someone you know is interested, please send an email to leshell@youth-lab.org for more information and a student application package. Space is limited, so reply now. For more information, visit www.youthapplab.org.

Classes will go until May/June with an app competition for internships. 202-713-5027.

“The Stars Tonight” at Air & Space Journey through the stars, constellations and celestial highlights of the current night sky with a museum staff member using the planetarium projector. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday (except Saturday in first full weekend of each month) at 11:30 AM. Free. National Air and Space Museum, on the National Mall at Seventh St. and Independence Ave. SW. nasm.si.edu

An All Male Education Works.

Septima Clark Public Charter School for Boys Enroll Now Preschool to 4th Grade • College Preparatory Education • Enrichment Activities • Small Class Size • Hands on Learning • Leadership Activities • Afterschool Program

NEW LOCATION! 2501 MLK Ave., SE Located in Birney ES

“Septima Clark is doing an extremely great job and I am so proud and thankful that my grandson is a part of something this fantastic.” ~ SCPCS Grandparent Changing Lives in Southeast DC.

SEPTIMA CLARK PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL

Limited Seats!! Call Now! 202-563-6556 WWW.SCPCS.ORG

Arena Stage Accepting Entries for Student Playwrights Project The 2010-11 Arena Stage Student Playwrights Project invites all students in fifth through 12th grades in DC and its neighboring counties to enter into competition an original 10-minute play. Entries must be delivered to Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater (1101 Sixth St. SW ) by Friday, Dec. 3.

The winning students will receive playwriting master classes and participate in further script development with professional playwrights, directors and dramaturgs.

The winning entries will then be performed by professional actors at Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater. All winning playwrights receive $250.

For competition guidelines, visit arenastage.org <http://arenastage. org> . For more information, call Community Engagement at 202600-4062 or email education@ arenastage.org. ●

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

39

KIDS & FAMILY

After 132 years, St. Teresa remains faithful Oldest Roman Catholic Church east of the Anacostia

St. Teresa at 1244 V Street SE is the oldest Roman Catholic church in East Washington.

the time, African Americans contributed much of the funding and labor to construct Saint Teresa. However, by the second decade of the twentieth century black parishioners were dissatisfied with the limited role they were permitted in the predominantly white church and established a separate church and parish for black Catholics as the Mission of St. Teresa’s. Meeting for worship in private homes and in the basement of St. Teresa’s, black parishioners raised funds for a new church.

By 1920, the cornerstone was laid for Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Morris Road, SE. According to Cultural Tourism DC, this would be the second formal division of St. Teresa’s.

The first occurred when white parishioners established Assumption Catholic Church in what had been the village hall for Congress Heights at 611 Alabama Ave. SE on April 2, 1916.

The first pastor of Assumption, Reverend John E. Horstkamp, purchased the lot on the corner of Portland Street, now Malcolm X Avenue, and Martin Luther King Avenue SE. The area is now occupied by a park and gas station.

The Twining City Chapel, founded in 1924, later Saint Francis of Xavier, at Pennsylvania Avenue and 27th St. SE, was another church started by former parishioners of St. Teresa’s, as was Our Lady Queen of Peace at 3800 Ely Place SE founded in 1948, Saint Thomas More at 4275 Fourth Street SE founded in 1952, and Holy Family in Hillcrest Heights

article & photos by John Muller

O

n Sunday morning the streets of historic Anacostia are alive with activity as city denizens and suburban dwellers flock to worship at their home sanctuaries. As songs of praise emanate from the numerous homes of God within the boundaries of the historic neighborhood, one church has faithfully anchored the same corner for more than one hundred and thirty years.

Saint Teresa of Avilla, at the

northwest corner of 13th and V Street SE, is the oldest Roman Catholic Church east of the Anacostia River.

Its doors opened in the fall of 1878.

Originally part of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, the City of Washington was named a separate archdiocese by Pope Pius XII in 1939. St. Teresa, in fact, is older than the Archdiocese of Washington by more than a half century.

Beginning as a multiracial church, reflective of the area’s population at

40 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

St. Teresa from around the turn of the 19th century.

Rev. Msgr. Raymond East has lead St. Teresa as pastor for the past five years.

in Prince George’s County, Maryland founded in 1962.

The growth of the Catholic community east of the Eastern Branch parallels the population growth and residential development of East Washington.

By the second half of the twentieth century St. Teresa had become a predominantly black congregation with whites slowly moving out of the area after integration of the city’s schools. In 1976, Rev. George Stallings, the youngest pastor in the history of the Archdiocese of Washington, was installed. Stallings attracted considerable attention by appealing directly to the cultural and spiritual needs of his growing black membership. Combining traditional Catholic liturgy with African rites, a traditional black preaching style, and elements

On a recent Sunday the message bulletin is updated at St. Teresa.

of African American history and music, Stallings captured national headlines.

He hung a painting in St. Teresa’s Catholic Church depicting a black Jesus, introduced gospel music at mass, and delivered fiery, spirited sermons resembling those of black Protestant church orators. Stallings remained the church’s pastor until 1988. During his tenure at St. Teresa membership grew from 200 to 2,000 parishioners.

A Washington Post article from 1984 cites changes Stallings instituted at St. Teresa and quotes parishioners as being happy with the changes. In 1983 St. Teresa’s newly formed gospel choir beat out choruses from denominations across the city to win a gospel contest held at the Kennedy Center. On a recent visit to St. Teresa, near the end of a more than two hour service, the choir in the rear balcony brought the congregation to its feet.

Through the floor you could feel the vibrations and movements of the congregation.

“There’s too little of the streets in the church and too little of the church in the streets,” says Rev. Monsignor Raymond G. East, who has been pastor at St. Teresa for the past 5 years, and tells members of St. Teresa that, “God is all that.”

“Being at St. Teresa has been a great learning experience. There has been so much the community has taught me. We tend to focus on the

needs of Anacostia, but there are a lot more gifts than needs,” declares Msgr. East, who was involved in a support role at St. Teresa during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s.

“St. Teresa gives me a sense of energy. If I miss a week, I feel funny.

When I’m here with my church family, I feel better,” said Douglas Daniels, who, with his own family, has been coming to the church for the last seventeen years and has been an usher the last fourteen.

With a congregation of three hundred and fifty families, St. Teresa plans to start a Saturday evening jazz liturgy in the upcoming months as a way of opening the doors of the church to the neighborhood to give the community a place to gather and to build friendships, according to Msgr. East.

As a member of the Washington Interfaith Network, St. Teresa is active with other citywide churches of various faiths to address community issues. Recently, St. Teresa participated in a workshop with more than seventy-five adults, the majority under the age of twenty-five, who received information about job training opportunities.

For more information on St. Teresa of Avilla visit http://www.stachurch.org.

Daily mass is held M-F at 7 a.m. Traditional Mass is at 7:30AM and Contemporary Mass is at 9AM on Sundays.

The church has ministries that are active throughout the week. ●

H E R I T ARGSE DA N C E & DRUMMERS ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION!

54th

ALUMNI DINNER & AWARDS Friday, Nov 19 from 7pm-11pm – $25 PERFORMING GROUPS, FOOD, FUN & MORE Saturday, Nov. 20 from 7pm-11pm Open to the Public. Donations Appreciated.

Performances by: African Heritage Dancers & Drums, Izibu Muntu Dance Co., Cacho Dancers & Drums

At 1320-B Good Hope Rd. S.E. For Information Call: 202-399-5252

www.africanheritagedancersanddrummers.org Member Agency United Black Fund

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

41

I’M A GOOD LISTENER

HOMES & GARDENS Changing hands is a list of most residential sales in the District of Columbia from the previous month. A feature of every issue, this list, based on the MRIS, is provided courtesy of Don Denton, manager of the Coldwell Banker office on Capitol Hill. The list includes address, sales price and number of bedrooms.

Share your thoughts on areas for future Circulator service.

Upcoming Circulator Public Meetings: Monday, November 8 • 6:00-8:00 PM Martin Luther King Memorial Library 901 G St NW, Room A-10 Saturday, November 13 • 1:30-3:30 PM Benning Library • 3935 Benning Rd If you need special accommodations or language assistance (interpretation or translation), please contact Marti Reinfeld at (202) 423-3734 or marti.reinfeld@dc.gov.

dccirculator.com

WIDE SHOE OUTLET Men’s and Women’s sizes up to 15 EE Brands: Naturalizer • Soft Spots Ros Hommerson • Propet Walking Cradles • InStride Slingshots are Back

Marlow Heights Shopping Center 4123 Branch Ave Marlow Heights, MD

301-702 1401

Free Gift With Ad 42 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| NOVEMBER 2010

Neighborhood

Close Price

BR

FEE SIMPLE ANACOSTIA 1312 V ST SE

$55,000

2

$182,000

3

$339,000 $321,650 $190,000

4 3 4

$275,000 $272,000 $270,000 $262,000 $249,000 $224,999 $80,500 $75,350 $70,000 $67,000 $67,000

3 4 3 4 5 3 3 3 3 3 3

$180,000 $170,000 $142,000 $84,200 $81,000 $76,900 $55,000 $55,000 $43,900 $43,000 $40,100

3 3 3 3 4 4 2 3 2 3 3

BARRY FARMS 1345 TALBERT TER SE

CHILLUM 131 LONGFELLOW ST NW 5405 1ST ST NE 40 LONGFELLOW ST NE

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 934 BELLEVUE SE 104 XENIA ST SE 930 BELLEVUE ST SE 111 MISSISSIPPI AVE SE 3822 1ST ST SE 837 MARJORIE CT SE 1046 BARNABY TER SE 1214 BARNABY TER SE 3217 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVE SE 1058 BARNABY TER SE 3739 HORNER PL SE

FORT DUPONT PARK 1100 CHAPLIN ST SE 4259 FORT DUPONT TER SE 1173 46TH PL SE 1242 CHAPLIN ST SE 1151 46TH PL SE 310 CAPE DR SE 4016 Q ST SE 1703 FORT DAVIS ST SE 204 34TH ST SE 3353 DUBOIS PL SE 4303 GORMAN TER SE 4632 HILLSIDE RD SE

$268,000 $245,000 $219,500 $200,000 $199,900 $190,000 $160,000 $104,000 $92,500 $85,000 $65,000 $61,000

3 3 4 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 6

$335,000 $315,000 $200,000

4 4 4

$200,000 $193,900 $150,000

2 3 2

$245,000 $142,500 $110,000 $35,500

3 4 3 3

$9,500

2

$90,000 $42,700

2 2 ●

HILL CREST 3415 HIGH VIEW TER SE 3027 ALABAMA AVE SE 1027 31ST ST SE

MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5221 CALL PL SE 4831 BASS PL SE 5520 B ST SE

RANDLE HEIGHTS 3103 28TH ST SE 2340 Q ST SE 3483 23RD ST SE 2315 ALTAMONT PL SE #103

DEANWOOD 103 56TH ST SE 221 56TH ST NE 56 55TH ST SE 5719 N. HELEN BURROUGHS AVE NE 4631 HUNT PL NE 806 46TH ST NE 922 52ND ST NE 514 EASTERN AVE NE 4908 JAY ST NE 918 44TH ST NE 4621 KANE PL NE

CONDOs BARRY FARMS 2636 WADE RD SE #22

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 3211 8TH ST SE #9 705 BRANDYWINE ST SE #203

Looking For Your New Home?

Search at www.LeeMurphy.net A Classic Georgetown Residence 1624 34th Street Beautifully appointed & finely restored Georgetown classic Victorian. 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 baths. PLUS renovated basement office/ 4th bedroom. Traditional & uncommonlylarge garden. Open space for maximizing entertaining. Lovely kitchen with designer flourishes. Steps to Volta Park. Hyde-Addison public school. Offered at a purse pleasing $1,399,000.

202.277.7477 lmurphy@cbmove.com REALTOR, licensed in DC, MD & VA Coldwell Banker Residential Brogerage 2.547.3525

LEE MURPHY Distinctive Homes. Distinctive Style.

6000 sq. ft. vacant lot on Capitol Hill Rare Opportunity at a Great Location!

Two blocks from the Potomac Ave. Metro stop, the new Harris Teeter and the Anacostia Waterfront riverwalk. Near Pennsylvania Ave retail corridor, Eastern Market and Barracks Row

3 buildable lots totalling 6000 sq. ft., 3 two family flats or up to 6 condos possible. Blueprints available (McAllister Architects); 10' Easement provides all lots with parking.

13,000sf GBA. $950K

For more information, email tkaupp@cbmove.com or kkaupp@cbmove.com or call 202-741-1699 CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 43

CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS To place a classified in East of the River, please call Carolina at Capital Community News, Inc. - 202.543.8300 x12 or email Carolina@hillrag.com

AIR CONDITIONING

CONTRACTORS

AIR CONDITIONING

Over 20 years of Experience

ELECTRICIAN THE HILL’S ELECTRICIAN Since 1990

www.wilcox-electric.com

202-546-1010

HEALTH & FITNESS

METROPOLITAN FITNESS & SAFETY ACADEMY @ 2201 SHANNON PLACE, SE • WDC 20020

P R O F E S S I O N A L & A M AT E U R BOXING LESSONS

Polar Bear

AIR CONDITIONING PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.

202-333-1310 www.polar-bear-hvac.com LICENSED BONDED INSURED FALL & WINTER SPECIALS FREE ESTIMATES

CLEANING SERVICES STANDARD CLEANING SERVICE INC. Commercial & Residential

Residential & Commercial

Residential & Commercial New Work • Rewiring • Repairs • Interior/Exterior Lighting

• Bathroom & Kitchen Remodeling • Hardwood Floors, Ceramic/Vinyl Tile • Demolition & Light Hauling • Drywall, Plastering & Painting • Waterproofing/Concrete Work • Roof Repair/New Roof • Carpet Cleaning

Awarded the Super Service Award from Angie's List in 2007, 2008, and 2009.

Stephen D. Wilcox Master Electrician References Available Licensed - Insured - Bonded

Ana Julia Viera 703.719.9850 • 703.447.9254 Days

HANDYMAN

For all Your Home Improvement Needs

* Senior Discount Available * Discount for Church Members

Free Estimates • Bonded & Insured References Upon Request 15% Discount New Customers

Specializing in Graphic Design & Website Design

PLEASE RECYCLE 44 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

• • • •

brochure design advertisements website design branding design

• • • •

corporate identity signage design illustration portraits

• • • • •

Painting & Drywall Remodeling Woodwork Roofing Landscapes: Installation & Maintenance

301-512-9454

Call Miguel Flores for your fee estimate Jason Nickens (c) 202.321.0793 (w) www.jasonnickens.com (e) artist@jasonnickens.com

| NOVEMBER 2010

(202) 889-5711

MOVING & HAULING

• Bulk Trash • Appliances • Basement Furniture • Yard Cleanup • Weekly Trash Pickups • Evictions • Demolition • Local or Long Distance • Residential or Commercial MD DC VA • 24 Hour Same Day Service “No job too small or big”

202.396.0105 license # 1948

PAINTING

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Unique Creative Cutting Edge

• OLYMPIC FREE WEIGHTS • FREE PERSONAL TRAINING • SENIORS WELCOME • HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE

MOVING & HAULING COMPANY

24 Hour Service

202.575.1064 240.620.2992

• ALL TYPES OF EXERCISE MACHINES Lat pull, ab crunch, back & shoulder press, etc.

• DIET COUNSELING & NUTRITION

Licensed • Bonded • Insured

www.maf-enterprises.com

DS

Johnston & Johnston Roofing

PLUMBING WAIT NO MORE PLUMBING 24 Hour Service

• FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST • WATERPROOFING • BASEMENT LEAKS • ALUMINUM ASPHALT COATING • SLATE REPAIRS • SHINGLE REPAIRS

DC License #1164

Just Say I Need A Plumber®

Kenny

202-251-1479 L U M M E R

’

S

L

I C E N S E

#707

WHS PLUMBING & HEATING Superior Service and Quick Response

We are Repiping & Drain Cleaning Specialists · Competitive On The Spot Pricing · Same Day, Nights, Weekends & Emergency Service · Licensed Plumbers and Gasfitters · Underground Domestic Water and Sewer Line Leak Detection · Underground Pipe Locator

Hill Family Owned & Operated Call William at

(202) 255-9231 20 years of experience Licensed, Bonded and Insured LSDBE Certified

www.whsplumbingandheating.com

ROOFING

Alex Williams Seamless Gutters • Box Gutters • Gutter Guards • Gutter Repairs • Gutter Cleaning • Flat Roof Repairs • Water Proofing Free Estimates

(202) 256 6981 (301) 858 6990 Licensed • Bonded • Insured

WELDING

FREE MAINTENANCE! Licensed • Bonded • Insured Family owned & operated 40 Years Experience

202-607-4038

www.JohnstonandJohnstonRoofing.com

202 271 4377

• Licensed Gas Fitter • Water Heater • Boiler Work • Serving DC • References John • Drain Service • Furness Repair & Replacement

Licensed Bonded Insured

Spectacular - Once in a Life Time Cross Country Tour 21 Days - West Coast Tour via Deluxe Motor Coach sponsored by The Washington’s Senior Wellness Center, July 11 – July 31, 2011. Call Patricia @ 202-213-1021 for additional information.

• CHIMNEY REPAIR • BRICK POINTING • GUTTER REPAIR/GUTTER REPLACEMENT • INQUIRE ABOUT OUR SPECIALS • FREE ESTIMATES

Dial A Plumber, LLC®

DC P

WEST COAST TOUR

“Try a new coating vs. a roof replacement.”

Master Plumbers No Job Too small

Darrell White 202-575-1885 202-812-7115

TOURS

Keith Roofing EXPERT WORKMANSHIP

AT

REASONABLE PRICES!

Residential/Commercial • Over 40 years in Business Chimney Repairs • Storm & Wind Damage Repair

ISAAC HOLDEN Roofing, Gutters & Painting

• New or Re-Roofing • Tear-Off & Replacement • Flat Roof Specialist • Copper, Tin, Sheet Metal & Rolled • Seamless & Flat Roofs • Re-Sealing • Tar, Asphalt, Gravel, Hot Coats • Modified Bitumen • Ask about our gutter specials

WANTED – HELP

Insurance Claims • Free Estimates • 24Hr. Service

OVER 30

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

DC Lic. 7610

• New Roofs & Maintenance • Seamless Gutters • Waterproofing • Chimney • Brick Pointing • Interior & Exterior Painting

Fully Insured • Licensed • Bonded “No Job Too Large or Small” Senior & Military Discounts Available!

Manna, Inc. is seeking CBE subcontractors for the construction of new 2-family houses in the Ivy City neighborhood. Trades being considered are: Concrete & Masonry, Plumbing, Fire Sprinklers, HVAC, Electrical, Roofing, and Interior finishes (drywall & painting, ceramic tile, carpet).

Plans & specifications are available to view for bidding purposes at the Manna offices. Bid requirements: CBE certificate, DC license, Liability & Worker’s Compensation Insurance, Davis Bacon Certified weekly payroll reports, Section 3 compliance, First Source Agreement compliance for contracts over $100,000. Bids due November 30, 2010.

Please contact Charlene Tibbs (ph. 202-832-1845 X 202) Monday thru Friday between 9 AM & 4 PM to reserve a viewing time for the plans & specs for bidding purposes.

202-486-7359 All Work Inspected by Owner...Deals Directly with Customers!

All Work Fully Guaranteed

See Our Ad with Special Discounts on Page 7

202.486.7184 15% off with Ad LICENSED & INSURED

24 Hour Emergency

FLAT ROOF SPECIALIST WE STOP LEAKS! • Roof Repairs • Roof Coatings • Rubber • Metal • Slate

• Tiles • Chimneys • Gutters • Waterproofing • Roof Certifications

We Do Everything!

BOYD CONSTRUCTION INC. LIC. BONDED. INS

75 years in service

Stopping Leaks is our Specialty!

Member

EAST OF THE RIVER CLASSIFIED RATES LINE CLASSIFIEDS: $25 for the first 15 words; 25 cents for each additional word

Flat • Rubber • Slate • Metal • Tiles & Shingles • Vinyl and Aluminum Siding • Skylights • Gutters & Downspouts • Chimneys • Waterproofing

We Do it All! 202.637.8808 Licensed, Bonded & Insured

BOX CLASSIFIEDS: $25 per column inch, two inch minimum; $25 each additional inch; 3 month minimum Multiple paper discounts available. Paid in advance and billed quarterly FREE CATEGORIES: Lost and Found, Items to Give Away, Club Meeting Notices

Serving DC Since 1927 BBB

JOB OPPORTUNI TY CBE SUBCONTRACTORS NEEDED Bids due by 11/30/2010

E-mail your ad with credit card information to carolina@hillrag.com or call 202.543.8300 x12.

202-223-ROOF (7663) CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 45

THE NOSE

By Anonymous

T

he leaves are falling and turning amber shades.

Soon, the November election will be over and a cast of characters, both old and new, will make their debut in that much storied edifice, the Wilson Building. After drinking Blackberry Breezes for the past four years, The Nose faces the daunting task of mixing a new brew to take the edge off the endless hours of District political porn on Channel 13.

However, with a looming budget deficit about to flatten the District’s financial house, the city cries out for a savior.

No, Dear Readers, The Nose has not broken into the Wilson Building, climbed onto the roof, and turned on the Bat Signal. It is not necessary. The Nose has every confidence that the new Chair of our esteemed Council, Kwame “Mighty” Brown is already hard at work steering his fellows away from that gaping fiscal abyss.

Ah, those lines should earn The Nose an angry midnight call.

Now, please take a moment, Dear Readers, and put your well-worn Imagination Caps.

The crowd roars and the scent of sweat and beer is in the air, as our mighty competitors, The Grinch and The Bean Counter, stride purposely down the red carpet courting the adoration of their Ward 3 fans. The latter, already formulating his arcane budgetary calculus, waves his laptop in the air in a menacing manner. The former loosens his designer tie and pulls off his suit raring to defend the wealthy against increased municipal assessments.

A thumping theme song fills the cage: Efficiency and progress are ours once more Now that we have the Neutron bomb It’s nice and quick and clean and gets things done Away with excess progeny But no less value to property No sense in Three but perfect sense in Eight:

After all...

Mr. Gandhi never hangs around, when he hears this Mighty sound, “Here I come to save the day!”

That means that Mighty Brown is on the way!

Yes sir, when there is a deficit to right, Mighty Brown will join the fight!

Whether it is a million or a grand, He’s got his head out of the sand!

Last year’s budget deliberations, broadcast to the public for the first time, took place in a dimly lit conference room. This year, according to what The Nose has heard from a well-regarded Wilson Building source, the venue will be shifted to the now vacated Blackberry bullpen. There, laborers from the Dept. of Public Works are busy erecting a cage of the type usually featured in World Wide Wrestling. To add a scintillating element to the proceedings, they have left several folding chairs in the ring.

The main bill is a death match between the Council’s Liberal wonks, Tommy “The Bleeding Heart” Wells and Phil “The Nitpicker” Mendelson; and its Conservative rump, David “The Bean Counter” Catania and Jack “The Grinch” Evans, who has taken a moment to put his check book down on the dais to tend to the Public’s business...

You’re a distracted one, Mr. Grinch.

You’re really are a schlemiel.

It was your focus on Wall Street, Allowed those folks at Tax & Revenue to steal. Mr. Grinch.

46 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

The sun beams down on a brand new day No more welfare tax to pay Unsightly slums gone up in flashing light Jobless millions whisked away At last we have more room to play All systems go to kill the poor tonight * Relaxing in the center of the cage, the Liberal faction awaits the moment of judgment. The Bleeding Heart furiously tweets on his iPhone, while the Nitpicker reclines on a folding chair shuffling a stack of budget documents nonchalantly. Who can tell whether the Bean Counter’s PowerPoint presentations can prevail over the Nickpicker’s ability to drone on for hours over the minutia of civic affairs?

The Conservatives enter the cage. The Bean Counter grabs a chair. Is he preparing to brain the Bleeding Heart over their disagreement on the Human Services budget, or simply attempting to prevent the Nitpicker from opening his mouth? Dear Readers, we shall never know, because he is interrupted by a Mighty Call, “Here I come to save the day!”

Did Mighty Brown succeed in preventing budgetary apocalypse? Did he ensure that The Grinch paid attention on the dais? Did he prevent the Nitpicker’s diatribes from casting colleagues into a coma? The Nose leaves that to his Readers’ imagination.

The Nose loves to hear from his readers. Have a comment?

Email TheNose@hillrag.com. ●

| NOVEMBER 2010

In Search of Citizen Journalists Capital Community News is searching for writers to serve report on community news for East of the River Newspaper.

Writers are expected to adhere to AP Style and take their own photographs.

Please submit writing samples and clips to

Andrew Lightman, Managing editor@andrew@hillrag.com

$"--*/( "-- "'3*$"/ ".&3*$"/ "35*454 We are now featuring original African American Art on the cover of the new East of the River Magazine Contact Jason @ 202.543.8300 x17 or email jason@hillrag.com

WACIF

Washington Area Community Investment Fund, Inc. The Washington Area Community Investment Fund (WACIF) helps small business owners succeed

Small Business Development - Business and Marketing plans - Legal and Accounting advice

Access to Capital - Loan Packaging and Sourcing - Loan Application Assistance

Workshops and Loan Days

Financial Needs Assessments

Specialized technical assistance in Small business law, financials Marketing, planning, taxes, credit and more!

- Analyze financial statements - Prepare budgets - Cash flow projections - Determine your capacity to borrow

For more information or to RSVP please call WACIF at 529-5505 or visit www.wacif.org Interpretation services and accommodations for persons with disabilities are available.

Contact WACIF one week prior to event for any special assistance needs.

Support for WACIF’s programs and services is provided by: DC Department of Housing and Economic Development; DC Department of Small and Local Business Development; Neighborhood Investment Fund, Government of the District of Columbia, Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development; Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development; U.S. Small Business Administration; The Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation; American Bank; M&T Bank; TD Bank; The Wachovia Wells Fargo Foundation; D.C. Pro Bono Bar Program; and other corporate and individual donors and investors.