East of the River Magazine 1210

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

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS 08 ............Go See Do by Kathleen Donner 10 ............East of the River Calendar by Kathleen Donner 16 ............The Bulletin Board by Kathleen Donner 20 ............Tax-Incredible • by Ed Lazere and Aleksandra Gajdeczka 22 ............Opinion • by Various 23 ............The Man from Anacostia • by Charles E. Wilson 24 ............Increasing Internet Access... • by Lex Kiefhaber 26 ............Capital Bikeshare • by L. Denise Jackson 27 ............Small Business Incubator Opens...• by John Muller

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE 28 ............District Government Seeks to Develop BIG K •

by John Muller

28

30 ............The Weekly News - East Washington History •

by John Muller

31 ............Living Local - Ray’s the Steaks • by Veronica O. Davis

34

32 ............The Jazz Project • by Jean-Keith Fagon 34 ............The Art of Giving • by Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW

KIDS & FAMILY 36 ............Kids and Family Notebook • by Kathleen Donner 40 ............Digital Connectors in Southeast DC • by Karen Jones

HOMES & GARDENS 43 ............Changing Hands • compiled by Don Denton

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44 ............The Classifieds 46 ............The Nose • by Anonymous

ON THE COVER: “Cauda Pavonis”, 2010, Matt Manley, Mixed Media - Digital

More on the process of Matt’s work can be found in the book “Art Revolution” by Lisa Cyr. To see more of his work, visit www.mattmanley.com or his online gallery at mattmanley.imagekind.com/store.

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

capitalcommunitynews.com 6 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

GO.SEE.DO. Lighting of Capitol Christmas Tree On Tuesday, December 7 at 5:00 PM, our Capitol Christmas Tree on the west lawn will be lit in a short ceremony and you’re invited to watch. The tree comes to us from Ridger-Teton National Forest in the State of Wyoming.

It was cut down in early November and has traveled from Wyoming as a sort-of celebrity stopping at cities and small towns for pictures. For the first time in the nation’s history, “the people’s tree” comes from the “cowboy state.” This lighting ceremony is an easy alternative to the crowded and ticketed White House Christmas tree lighting ceremony that takes place two day later. Dress warmly and wear boots.

Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-Along Expect traffic jams but it’s magical at Wolf Trap when the “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band performs seasonal favorites. Following the concert, the band will accompany local school, church and community choirs in a performance of traditional holiday carols. The evening will conclude at dusk when audience members are invited to light candles and illuminate the Filene Center. Free admission. Free parking. Sunday, December 5, 4:00-5:30 PM. wolftrap.org Courtesy of Wolf Trap

Audubon Christmas Bird Count From December 14 through January 5, tens of thousands of volunteers take part in an adventure that has become a family tradition across generations. Families and students, birders and scientists, armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists go out on an annual mission, often before dawn. For over one hundred years, the desire to both make a difference and to experience the beauty of nature has driven dedicated people to leave the comfort of a warm house during the Holiday season.

Find out how to participate birds at audubon.org/christmasbird-count

Family Kwanzaa Adventure at Anacostia Community Museum This is a great day for families to celebrate Kwanzaa by encouraging connections and building understanding and mutual respect. Join in this observance with Saleem and Ivy Hylton of Youth and Families in Crisis, who have been hosting Kwanzaa celebrations for 18 years. Experience an authentic Kwanzaa celebration through interactive drumming, singing, dancing, and skits, designed to explore the principles of Kwanzaa. The program closes with the “Circle of Hope and Healing,” an original Kwanzaa group activity designed to restore and renew the hopes and dreams of families for the New Year. Tuesday, Dec. 28, 10:30 AM. Free. 1901 Fort Place SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Kwanzaa Table at the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum Photo: Steven M. Cummings Northern Cardinal. Photo: Jerry Acton

DC’s Holiday Markets Open Dec. 3-23, noon-8:00 PM, the Downtown Holiday Market is bigger and better than ever, with more than 150 local artisans and exhibitors with a focus on environmental sustainability. Shoppers and revelers alike will enjoy an exciting mix of live entertainment, ranging from jazz and blues to klezmer and a cappella. Located across from the Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. Capitol Riverfront Holiday Market at Federal Gateway is open Dec. 14-17, 11:00 AM-7:00 PM, Saturday, Dec. 18, 10:00 AM-3:00 PM. Nine local artisans will sell handcrafted jewelry, pottery, watercolors and photography. There will be live entertainment daily, noon–1:30 PM. Eastern Market Holiday Market is open daily (including Mondays) from Nov. 26-Dec. 23, Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM; Saturdays, 7:00 AM-6:00 PM; Sundays, 7:00 AM-5:00 PM. Find trees, wreaths, swags, holly, mistletoe, gifts, crafts, flowers and food.

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 9

CALENDAR THE HOLIDAYS National Hanukkah Menorah. The menorah will be lit each night of Hanukkah, Dec 1-9. The Ellipse (south of the White House, NW end, near Constitution Ave.). 202-3325600. nationalmenorah.org “The Best Gift of All” Air Force Band Holiday Concert.

Friday, Dec. 3, 10:30 AM (for kids); Saturday, Dec. 4, 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM; Sunday, Dec. 5, 3:00 PM. Their mix of traditional and new holiday favorites delight audiences young and old alike. Free but tickets required. There will be a stand-by line. DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St. NW. usafband.af.mil ZooLights. Friday, Saturday and Sunday; Dec. 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12; Dec. 17 through Jan. 2 (Every night except Dec. 24, 25, and 31); 6:00-8:30 PM Don’t miss your chance to meander through the Zoo when it is covered with thousands of sparkling lights, attend special keeper talks, and enjoy live entertainment. $8. National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. nationalzoo.si.edu Christmas Tree Lighting at Fairlawn Park. Saturday, Dec. 4, 4:00 PM. Lighting the tree and light refreshments. Minnesota Ave. and Good Hope Rd. 202-270-9353. fairlawndc. org Christmas in Washington: Two Centuries of Yuletide Traditions. Saturday, Dec. 4, 4:00-8:00 PM. Anderson House, Dumbarton House and Tudor Place. Stroll through three festively decorated museums and learn about historical Christmas traditions at this open house, featuring period decorations, live music, children’s crafts, and refreshments. To visit one site only, $10 per adult and $5 per child; To visit two or more sites, $15 per adult and $10 per child. Reservations required. societyofthecincinnati.org Capitol Hill Chorale “Awake the Harp!” Concert. Saturday, Dec. 4, 7:00 PM and Sunday, Dec. 5, 4:00 PM. A concert to warm a dark winter night. $20-$25. Lutheran Church of the Reformation, 212 East Capitol St. NE. capitolhillchorale.org A JEWMONGOUS Chanukah Party. Saturday, Dec. 4, 9:00 PM. Enjoy a laugh-out-loud, Chanukah-themed comedy concert followed by a late-night party. Sean Altman’s JEWMONGOUS is an unkosher blend of song, humor, pop culture, and all things Jewish. Altman will be joined by special guest comedy songstress Cynthia Kaplan. $20.

Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. 202-408-3100. sixthandi.org Hill Havurah Havdalah Service, Menorah Lighting and Latkes Party. Saturday, Dec 4, 5:30 PM. Bring your own menorah, if you wish. All are welcome. Christ Our Shepherd Church, 801 North Carolina Ave. SE. hilhavurah.org

Photo: Courtesy of USBG

“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 makebelieve world of model trains. There is live holiday music and extended hours (until 8:00 PM) Tuesdays and Thursdays in December. Free. 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov 10 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

Lighting of Capitol Christmas Tree. On Tuesday, Dec. 7 at 5:00 PM, our Capitol Christmas Tree on the west lawn will be lit in a short ceremony and you’re invited to watch. The tree comes to us from Ridger-Teton National Forest in the State of Wyoming. It was cut down in early November and has traveled from Wyoming as a sort-of celebrity stopping at cities and small towns for pictures. For the first time in the nation’s history, “the people’s tree” comes from the “cowboy state.” This lighting ceremony is an easy alternative to the crowded and ticketed White House Christmas tree lighting ceremony that takes place two day later.

Dress warmly and wear boots.

Daughters of the American Revolution Christmas Open House. Dec. 8, 5:30-8:00 PM. Live holiday music, tour 31 period rooms, cider, hot chocolate, cookies and Santa.

Child-friendly. DAR Memorial Continental Hall, 17th and D sts. NW. 202-572-0563. dar.org

MAY THE LORD BLESS YOU DURING THIS SEASON OF HIS COMING

H E R I T ARGSE DA N C E & DRUMMERS

With Guest Artist from the Ethiopian Communiy Celebrating GENA

Kwanzaa CELEBRATION! Sunday, Dec 26 from 7 pm - 9 pm

Open to the Public. Donations Appreciated.

Performances by: African Heritage Dancers & Drums

At 1320-B Good Hope Rd. S.E. For Information Call: 202-399-5252 www.africanheritagedancersanddrummers.org Member Agency United Black Fund

CANDLELIGHT SERVICE, DEC. 24TH 5PM NEW YEARS EVE WATCHNIGHT SERVICE, DEC. 31ST 10PM ALL ARE WELCOME….

SUNDAY SERVICE 11:00AM Adult/Youth Sunday School 9:30AM Wednesday night Bible Study 6:30PM Women’s Bible Study (3rd Sat. of month) Men’s Bible Study (4th Sat. of month)

FAITH PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Rev. Bernice Parker-Jones, Pastor 4161 So. Capitol Street, SW Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-2035 www.faithpchurch.com CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 11

CALENDAR

Audubon Christmas Bird Count. From Dec. 14-Jan. 5 tens of thousands of volunteers take part in an adventure that has become a family tradition among generations. Families and students, birders and scientists, armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists go out on an annual mission - often before dawn.

For over one hundred years, the desire to both make a difference and to experience the beauty of nature has driven dedicated people to leave the comfort of a warm house during the Holiday season. Find out how to participate birds at audubon.org/christmas-bird-count

Tree Prep for The “Living” Christmas Tree. Photo: Elvis Trotman

The “Living” Christmas Tree Dec. 3, 7:00 PM; Dec. 4, 6:30 PM; Dec. 5, 5:00 PM. The “Living Tree” is elegantly adorned with 40 man and women delivering the best of the season’s sacred music while standing within the tree! $10 donation. The Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church, 3000 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-581-1500. pabc-dc.org District of Columbia Senior Citizens Holiday Celebration. Wednesday, Dec. 8, 10:00 AM2:00 PM. Door prizes, health screenings, immunizations, lunch, and hand dancing. Tickets required. Obtain tickets by calling 202-7245626. DC Armory, 2001 East Capitol St. SE. White House Christmas Tree. Dec. 10 through New Years Day. The tree is lit on Dec. 9 at a 5:00 PM ceremony. If you don’t have a ticket, you can’t get in. There is no stand-by line.

The tree is lit from dusk to 11:00 PM. Musical groups perform nightly, weekdays, 6:008:30 PM; weekends, 4:00-8:30 PM. The Ellipse (south of the White House). 202-208-1631.

Old Time Christmas Dioramas at Coldwell Banker. Miss the magic of Woodies or Macy’s display windows? The old time Christmas dioramas will be on display in the windows of Coldwell Banker Capitol Hill located at 605 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. through December.

Delight to little elves cavorting with Santa.

Trains and ski lights. Lighted trees. Bring the kids! Sponsored by Phyllis Jane Young.

US Army Band “A Holiday Festival.” Friday, Dec. 10, 8:00 PM; Sat., Dec. 11, 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM; Sunday, Dec. 12, 3:00 PM. The U.S. Army Band is teaming up with the US Army Chorus, the US Army Chorale and a special guest performer for its annual “A Holiday Festival.” Free tickets required but there will be a stand-by line. DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St. NW. 703-696-3399. usarmyband.com Holiday Caroling at the National Gallery of Art. Saturdays and Sundays. December 11, 12, 18 and 19, 1:30 PM and 2:30 PM. Caroling in the seasonally decorated West Building Rotunda has become a favorite family activity of the holiday season. Guest choirs lead afternoon sing-along caroling all four days. West Building Rotunda, National Gallery of Art, Sxith and Constitution Ave. NW. nga.gov Lighting the Way Concert. Dec. 12, 5:00 PM. Benefit concert to support Hughes HOPE, the HIV/AIDS ministry of Hughes Memorial UMC. Hughes Memorial United Methodist Church, 25 53rd St. NE. 202-398-3411.

Folger Consort celebrates A Renaissance Christmas. Dec. 10, 8:00 PM; Dec. 11, 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM; Dec. 12, 2:00 Pm and 5:00 PM. For its annual holiday concert, early music ensemble Folger Consort performs A Renaissance Christmas featuring acclaimed British vocal ensemble The Tallis Scholars. Vividly conveying the joy and the spirit of the season, the program features five concerts of sacred and secular music by William Byrd, Orlando Gibbons, Henry Purcell, and others. $30-$50.

Georgetown University’s Gaston Hall. 202544-7077. folger.edu/consort

Russian Winter Festival at Hillwood. Sunday, Dec. 12, 1:00-5:00 PM. Celebrate the holidays in Old Russian style! Meet Grandfather Frost and the Snow Maiden and create a kokoshnik (lady’s headdress) or gentleman’s hat just like they wear! Enjoy dancing, storytelling, and lively entertainment. $10. Hillwood Museum and Gardens, 4155 Linnean Ave. NW. 202-6868500. hillwoodmuseum.org

12 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

Christmas Pet Photo with Santa--Fashion for Paws Event. Sunday, Dec.12, 2:00-4:00 PM. Hotel Monaco, 700 F St. NW. support. washhumane.org

Men in Tights: A Pink Nutcracker, Friday, Dec. 17, 8:00 PM; Saturday, Dec. 18, 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM; Sunday, Dec. 19, 3:00 PM. Their holiday fantasia arrives complete with the Sugar Plum Fairy, lots of vodka and, of course, sexy men in tights. GMCW revives its popular take-off on Tchaikovsky’s beloved Nutcracker Suite, set to a wonderland of choral singing.

Lisner Auditorium at George Washington University. gmcw.org Kids on Ice Holiday Show “The Best of Broadway.” Saturday, Dec. 18. time TBA. Third annual Kids On Ice Holiday Show features elite “Grassroots to Champions” skaters and Synchronized Skating Teams. Fort Dupont Ice Arena, 3779 Ely Pl. SE. 202-584-5007. fdia.org “Season of Magic” Navy Band Holiday Concert. Saturday, Dec. 18, 7:30 PM. Sunday, Dec. 19, 3:00 PM. Hear their mix of traditional and new holiday favorites delight audiences young and old alike. Free tickets required but there will be a stand-by line. DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St. NW. 202-433-2525. navyband.navy. mil Carols by Candlelight at National Cathedral.

Saturday, Dec. 18, 6:00 PM; Sunday, Dec. 19, 4:00 PM. (Choral prelude starts about 20 minutes before the service.) Bible readings are interspersed with Christmas music, candlelighting, and prayers in this holy service inviting the peace of the season. Washington National Cathedral (intersection of Wisconsin and Massachusetts aves. NW). 202-537-6200. cathedral.org Kwanzaa Celebration at Dance Place. Saturday, Dec 18, 8:00 PM; Sunday, Dec 19, 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. In this special holiday showcase, Coyaba Academy, Coyaba Dance Theater and special guests celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa. $22. 202-269-1600. danceplace. org Eucharist Music (Lessons and Carols) at St.John’s. Dec. 19, 11:00 AM In the context of the Sunday liturgy at St. John’s, the St. John’s Choir, a professional ensemble, is joined by a professional orchestra to present musical settings for the Mass. Presentation of these works, as they were originally designed to be done (that is, in the context of liturgy), is intended to enhance and heighten the experience of worship, as well as to attract lovers of classical music. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 16th and H sts. NW (on Lafayette Square).

202-347-8766. stjohns-dc.org

Christmas Music at Epiphany. Tuesday, Dec. 21, 12:10-1:00 PM. This is a special Christmas choral concert presented at the same time as the regular “Music at Epiphany” Tuesday concerts. Freewill offering. Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G St. NW. 202-347-2635. epiphanydc.org Kennedy Center Messiah Sing-Along. Thursday, Dec 23, 8:00 PM. Join the Kennedy Center House Orchestra, a 200 voice choir, a professional soloist and fellow audience members in a glorious “sing-along” of Handel’s beloved masterpiece. This is Washington’s most popular free holiday event. One ticket per person available two hours before performance (6:00 pm) in front of Concert Hall. kennedy-center. org All Star Christmas Day Jazz Jam. Saturday, Dec. 25, 6:00 PM. December 25 always brings this popular annual event. Free. Kennedy Center. 202-416-8340. kennedy-center.org Christmas at St. Francis Xavier. Dec. 24, 7:00 PM, Carols and Music, 7:45 PM, Nativity Procession and Mass. Dec. 25, 10:00 AM, Christmas Mass. 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202582-5021. parishes.org/stfrancisxavierdc Christmas at “The Church of the Presidents.” Dec. 24, 5:00 PM, Children’s Pageant; 7:30 PM, Service with orchestral music; 11:00 PM, “Midnight” Mass. Christmas Day, 11:00 AM. St. John’s Episcopal Church, 16th and H sts. NW (on Lafayette Square). 202-347-8766. stjohns-dc.org Seven Nights of Light at the Franciscan Monastery. The luminaries (seven-day candles) will be lighted in the churchyard on Christmas Eve and continue glowing for seven days and nights until New Year’s Eve. Franciscan Monastery, 1400 Quincy St. NE. 202-5266800. fmgg.org Celebration of Christmas at the National Shrine. Dec. 24, Children’s Mass with Gospel Pageant, 5:00 PM; Musical Meditations on the Nativity, 10:00 PM; Solemn Vigil Mass, 10:30 PM. Dec. 25, Masses, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM and 4:30 PM; Solemn Mass, noon; Spanish Mass, 2:30 PM. 400 Michigan Ave. NE. 202526-8300. nationalshrine.com Christmas at Washington National Cathedral. Dec. 24, Lessons and Carols, 6:00 PM, Midnight Eucharist, 10:00 PM. (Both services require free tickets but there will be a standby line that usually gets in.). Dec. 25, Festive Eucharist (televised), 9:00 AM; Festive Eucharist, noon; Christmas vespers (Evensong).

4:00 PM; Christmas organ concert, 5:00 PM. Intersection of Wisconsin and Massachusetts aves. NW. 202-537-6200. cathedral.org Cut-Your-Own Christmas Tree Farms in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Also find sleigh rides, hayrides and other winter fun. Please call the farm for directions. pickyourownchristmastree.org Watch Night Service at The Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church. Friday, Dec 31, 10:00

PM. Watch Night is followed by the Spirit Cafe’ in the Chapel. 3000 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-581-1500. pabcdc.org

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD Resume and Job Searching Workshop. Wednesday, Dec. 8, 1:00-2:30 PM. Free with your library card! To register, please stop by the library or call 202-698-1175. Deanwood Library, 1350 49th. St. NE. dclibrary.org/deanwood Big Chair Breakfast Bunch. Saturday, Dec. 11, 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.

Oratorical Contest at Frederick Douglass House. Dec. 9, 10 and 11, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. The Frederick Douglass Oratorical Contest invites students in grades 1-12 to take their best shot at giving a Douglass speech. Free. 1411 W St. SE. 202-426-5960. nps.gov/frdo Grass Roots: The Enduring Art of the Lowcountry Basket. Saturday, Dec. 11, 10:30 AM. America’s oldest African-inspired art is the subject of this exciting film. The residents of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, relate the skill, artistry, and tradition of the coiled sea-grass basket. The film is associated with Grass Roots: African Origins of an American Art, an exhibition by the Museum for African Art in New York. (27 min.). Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-6334820. anacostia.si.edu The Drum Folk Discussion and Performance. Sunday, Dec. 12, 2:00 PM. Following a discussion on growing up Gullah, performance artist David Pleasant presents a musical and audience participation program—with tambourines, frame drums, bells, assorted shakers, body percussion, stamping stick, voice, and harmonica—that recalls the rich sounds and rhythms of the African-inspired traditions that are at the heart of the Gullah/Geechee experience. Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202633-4820. anacostia.si.edu Friends of the Deanwood Library Meeting. Wednesday, Dec. 15, 7:00 PM. Come and help support the new library. 1350 49th. St. NE. 202-6981175.

About the Gullah Cuisine Discussion and Book Signing. Saturday, Dec. 18, 11:00 AM. Charlotte Jenkins, premier chef and owner of Gullah Cuisine in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, offers history and insights into the Gullah culture as she discusses cooking and food practices included in her book, Gullah Cuisine. A book signing follows.

Free. 1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu The Rhythms and Movements of Capoeira Workshop and Demonstration.

Sunday, Dec. 19, 2:00 PM. Roda Move-

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ments, a Washington area dance studio, presents the history and influences of Capoeira, an African-based art form that combines martial arts, dance and music and that gave rise to break dancing. Audience participation and demonstrations complete the program. Free.

1901 Fort Pl. SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia. si.edu 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. 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, noon9:00 PM. “To teach the un-teachable, 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 202-724-7568.

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. Open daily, 7:00 AM-4:00 PM. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is about 700 acres and is part of Anacostia Park. The park includes the gardens, Kenilworth Marsh, ball fields and recreational facilities. It is the only National Park Service site devoted to the propagation and display of aquatic plants. Free.1550 Anacostia Ave. NE. 202-426-6905. www.nps.gov/kepa 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 AM5:30 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. 202-715-7707. 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 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 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 Washington Highlands Interim Library.

Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 9:30 AM-5:30 PM. Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00-9:00 PM. Closed Sundays. 4037 S. Capitol St. SW. 202-243-1184. 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 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. 202633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

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 experience necessary. Walkins 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 experience necessary. Walk-ins welcome. THEARC. $10. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-889-5901. www.thearcdc.org

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

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. 202-472-3873.

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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. 202645-6242. 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 WallsKaufman, 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.

Kung Fu and Tai Chi at the Historical Society of Washington, DC. Every Saturday (rain or shine). Kung Fu, noon; Tai Chi, 1:00 PM. Suitable for all ages. Kung Fu is a broad term that is used to describe all martial arts of Chinese origin. The ancient art of Tai Chi is a style of Kung Fu that emphasizes internal energy.

Free. No RSVP required. Historical Society of Washington, DC, 801 K St. NW (Mount Vernon Square). 202-383-1850. www.historydc.org Tidal Basin 3K Monthly Run. Third Wednesday 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 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. www.dpr. dc.gov/dpr East Potomac Driving Range. Open daily except Christmas, 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Tuesdays open 10:00 AM to 9:30 PM. The East Potomac Driving Range features 50 covered and 50 uncovered stalls for year-round golf practice. $6 for 51 balls. East Potomac Golf Course, 972 Ohio Dr. SW. 202-554-7660. www.golfdc.com 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

CIVIC LIFE Councilmember Alexander’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 10:00 AM6:00 PM. 2524 Penn. Ave. SE. 202-581-1560.

Councilmember Barry’s Constituent Services Office. Open weekdays, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. 2100 MLK Ave, SE, #307. 202-698-2185.

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 202-388-1532.

Fairlawn Citizens Association. Third Tuesday, 7:00 PM. Ora L. Glover Community Room at the Anacostia Public Library, 1800 Good Hope Rd. SE. 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, 202-698-0840, 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 202-698-1446.

PSA 704 Meeting. Second Wednesday. 6:308:00 PM. THEARC, 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. For details, contact LT Raul Figueras at 202698-1438.

PSA 705 Meeting. Last Tuesday. 6:00-7:00 PM. UPO Petey Greene, 2907 MLK Ave. SE. For details, contact Lt. Michael Coligan at 202-698-1437 or Lt. Peter Larsen at 202-6981441.

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

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

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

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.

ANC Meeting for 7-C. Second Thursday. 7:00 PM. Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5109 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave. NE. 202398-5100. anc7c@verizon.net

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.

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. 7:008:30 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.

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

OUT OF TOWN Christmas at Mt. Vernon and Mt. Vernon by Candlelight. Daily through Jan. 6, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. Candlelight tours, Nov. 26, 27 and 28; Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12 18 and 19, 5:00-8:00 PM. Mount Vernon is especially wonderful during the holidays. Candlelight tour includes singing around a campfire, costumed characters, hot cider and cookies. Candlelight tours are $20 ($14 for children 11 and younger). General admission to Mount Vernon is $15 ($7 for children 611). Mount Vernon, VA. 703-780-2000. mountvernon.org Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. Saturday, Dec. 4. Festivities begin at 4:00 PM. Free. Alexandria’s harbor lights up when more than 50 illuminated boats cruise the Potomac River at the historic waterfront. Alexandria’s Historic Waterfront at the foot of Cameron St., Alexandria, VA. 703-838-5005.

Antietam Memorial Illumination (23,000 Candles). Saturday, Dec. 4 (heavy winds or rain date, Dec. 11).

Driving tour begins at 6:00 PM on Route 34 east of Sharpsburg. Volunteers place over 23,000 candles on the battlefield; each representing a casualty from the bloodiest single-day-battle in American History. 5831 Dunker Church Road, Sharpsburg, MD. 301-432-5124. nps. gov/anti Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk Parade and Concert. Saturday, Dec. 4, Parade, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM; Massed band concert, 1:00-1:30 PM. Over 100 Scottish Clans, pipe and drum bands, Scottish dancers, re-enactment groups, Scottie dog groups, dignitaries and, of course, Santa Claus will march through the streets of Old Town. scottishchristmaswalk.com ●

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BULLETIN BOARD Black Nativity at H Street Playhouse Photo: Courtesy of Theater Alliance

Theater Alliance Creates New Holiday Tradition on H Street with Black Nativity Langston Hughes’ soul-stirring Afrocentric retelling of the Christmas story returns this year to the H Street Playhouse when Black Nativity opens on Dec. 9. A large cast of singers and actors who have honed their talents both on stage and in church choirs will bring the story to life. Infused with rich gospel, blues, funk, and jazz music and featuring soulful and electrifying dance and griot-style storytelling by a gifted ensemble cast, Black Nativity captures the joy of the African– American worship experience in an accessible theatrical production.

Originally written by renowned Harlem Renaissance poet Langston Hughes, the show changes from year to year thanks to contemporary contributions made by modern directors. Black Nativity will run Dec. 9 through Jan. 2 at the H Street Playhouse at 1365 H St. NE. Performances are Wednesdays through Sundays at 8:00 PM, with 3:00 PM matinees on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Tickets are on sale now for $35, general admission ($25 for seniors and under 12). 202399-7993, ext. 2. theateralliance.com 16 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

What to do if You’ve Lost or Found a Dog Some things to do if you’ve found a pet? Call the Washington Humane Society’s 24 hour hotline at 202-5766664 to see if the owner has filed a missing pet report. Post a free Craigs List ad making sure to include pictures and information about where the dog was found. Send an email to the Hill Hounds Yahoo Group and other neighborhood email lists. Take the animal to a veterinarian or the DC Animal Shelter and ask them to scan for a microchip. Some owners have had a microchip with their contact information inserted under their pet’s skin. If you can’t keep the pet while seeking out the owner, take him or her to the DC Animal Shelter. If you’re worried that the owner might not step forward and the animal may be euthanized, you can contact local animal rescues to see if any of them can find a home for him/her. A new page on the Hill Hounds website has tips about what to do if you have lost or found a dog. hillhounds.com/resources/lost-or-found-a-dog.

Palisades-Hillcrest Partnership Honored by Federation of Citizens Associations The Federation of Citizens Associations will honor the HillcrestPalisades Partnership, now in its 13th year, at its annual holiday luncheon on Monday, Dec. 6, noon, at the historic DACOR Bacon House, 18th and F sts. NW. You are invited to attend this event to celebrate 100 years of service by the Federation and 13 years of happy collaboration between Hillcrest and The Palisades. Penny Pagano, former PCA President who spearheaded the idea of the partnership, and co-founders Alice Stewart and Miles Steele from The Palisades and Hillcrest respectively, will be at the luncheon. $30, payable at the door.

Reservations are required. Email Dave Mallof at mallof@verizon.net.

ARCH Development Corporation 2011 Artist in Residency Program The ARCH Development Corporation artist residency pro-

gram is an opportunity for artists to pursue thoroughly their creative project amid DC’s vibrant and diverse urban environment. 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.

Applications are $25. Summer program deadline is Mar. 1. The Summer Residency will run from May 30–July 22 and is open to any visual arts. Email arts@archdc.org with questions.

Public Art Murals Helps Combat Graffiti The DC Commission on the Arts and the Humanities and the Department of Public Works announces seven new murals as part of the Murals DC program. Councilmember Jim Graham launched MuralsDC in 2007 to combat the growing trend of illegal graffiti and reduce urban blight. By pairing local artists with District youth, the program provides a positive learning environment for youth to express their artistic talent, respect public and private property, and gain greater community appreciation. The murals, located in Wards 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8 each reflect the character, culture and, in some cases, the history, of the neighborhoods in which they are located. The Capitol Hill east mural in Ward 6 pays tribute to legendary composer and marching band leader John Philip Sousa, a DC native, while the Deanwood mural in Ward 7 incorporates nostalgic scenes of the community’s past. muralsdc.wordpress.com

Ward 8 Transportation Study Meeting There will be 14,000 new federal government employees traveling to Ward 8 to work at government agencies on the west campus of St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. There are two new developments coming up on MLK Jr. and Sumner Road, SE as well as Sheridan Station on Sheridan Road. These new developments mean more pedestrians, more traffic which will change our traffic patterns and parking. Mark your calendar for very important dialogue.

Saturday, Dec. 4, 10:00 a.m.-noon.

Matthews Memorial Church, 2616 MLK Jr. Ave. SE.

Two Rabies-Positive Raccoons Found in Near-by Parks Two raccoons tested rabiespositive in late November, one near Langdon Park and the other at the National Arboretum. Please do not approach wildlife or animals that appear sick or injured. Instead, call DC Animal Care and Control at 202-576-6664. Rabies is a fatal disease of man and mammals.

District law requires that all cats and dogs over four months old be vaccinated against rabies and distemper. District law also requires that all owners license their dogs and that dogs wear a license tag.

Cats and dogs must be at least three months old to receive a rabies vaccination. The first rabies shot a cat or dog receives is good for one year only. The second shot is good for three years. For low cost rabies and distemper vaccinations visit Washington Animal Rescue League at 71 Oglethorpe St. NW. on the last Saturday of each month. 202-7262273. $10/shot. The Spay and Neuter Center at 1001 L St. SE takes walk-ins, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. $10/ shot. If an unvaccinated dog or cat is exposed to a rabid or rabies suspect animal, or has a wound from an unknown source, the law requires that the animal must be quarantined for six months.

DHCD Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report Public Hearing The DC Department of Housing and Community Development will hold a public hearing on

Wednesday, Dec. 8, 6:30-8:30 p.m., at the DHCD first floor conference room, 1800 Martin Luther King Jr., Ave. SE to discuss the District’s Fiscal Year 2010 performance in its use of funds received from the U.S. Department of Housing arid Urban Development (HUD). These comments will form part of DHCD’s and the District’s evaluation. If you would like to testify, you are encouraged to register in advance either by calling 202-442-7251. Please provide your name, address, telephone number, and organization affiliation, if any. Written statements may be submitted for the record at the hearing or until close of business, Friday, Dec. 17. Mail statements to: Leila Finucane Edmonds, Director, DHCD, 1800 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE; Washington,, DC 20020

Thurlow Tibbs Award Winners Carlene Cheatam, Ernest Hopkins, Philip Pannell, Terrance Payton; Mildred and Eugene Young; the Sargent Memorial Presbyterian Church; and Black Entertainment Television were reccipients of the Thurlow Tibbs Award at the Us Helping Us, People Into Living fall fundraiser, A Passion for Living.

The Thurlow Tibbs Award is given in recognition of outstanding community service.

Possible Off-Peak Lane Closures for 11th Street Bridge Project Contractors for the District of Department of Transportation (DDOT) may close lanes during off-peak travel hours on the 11th St. bridges, related ramps, portions of the Southeast-Southwest Freeway, Interstate 295/DC 295 and local streets from Monday, Nov. 29 through Friday, Jan. 28 for 11th Street Bridge Project construction activities. These closures may include periodically closing up to two of the four lanes on either of the 11th St. bridges and one lane on related ramps on weeknights and some Sunday evenings to deliver steel girders or perform other construction-related work. To implement this, workers will close one bridge lane at 8:00 p.m. and a second lane and one ramp lane beginning at 9:00 p.m. with all lanes reopening by 5:00 a.m. the next morning.

Public Programs at the Anacostia Community Museum Dec. 4 Fused Stained Glass-Style Wall Hanging, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Use prewashed and ironed cotton fabric and fusible webbing to create a small stained glass-style wall hanging that symbolizes a holiday or Kwanzaa. Fee: $15.00. Reservations needed.

Dec. 11 Grass Roots: The Enduring Art of the Lowcountry Basket (film 27 min.), 10:30 a.m. Mt. Pleasant, SC, residents relate the skill, artistry, and tradition of the coiled sea-grass basket in this film about America’s oldest African-inspired art. The film is associated with Grass Roots: African Origins of an American Art, an exhibition by the Museum for African Art in New York.

Dec. 12 The Drum Folk, 2 p.m. Following a discussion on growing up Gullah, performance artist David Pleasant presents a musical and audience participation program–with tambourines, frame drums, bells, assorted shakers, body percussion, stamping stick, voice, and harmonica–that recalls the rich sounds and rhythms of the African-inspired traditions that are at the heart of the Gullah/Geechee experience.

Dec. 18 About the Gullah Cuisine, 11 a.m. Charlotte Jenkins, chef and owner of Gullah Cuisine in Mount Pleasant, SC, offers history and insights into the Gullah culture as she discusses cooking and food practices included in her book, Gullah Cuisine. A book signing follows.

Dec. 19 The Rhythms and Movements of Capoeira, 2 p.m. Roda Movements, a Washington area dance studio, presents the history and influences of Capoeira, an African-based art form that combines martial arts, dance and music and that gave rise to break dancing. Audience participation and demonstrations complete the program.

Dec. 21 The Talking Drum, 10:30 a.m. Joseph Ngwa, ancestral master drummer from Cameroon, Africa, demonstrates how the talking drum (timdene or dundun) transmits messages and meaning through various sounds..

KWANZAA SERIES: Dec. 28 The Family Kwanzaa Adventure, 10:30 a.m. Saleem and Ivy Hylton of Youth and Families in Crisis offer participating families an authentic holiday celebration through interactive drumming, singing, dancing, and skits, designed to explore the principles of Kwanzaa.The program closes with the “Circle of Hope and Healing,” an original Kwanzaa group activity designed to restore and renew the hopes and dreams of families for the New Year.

Dec. 29 Zawadis for Kwanzaa, 10:30 a.m. Following a discussion about Kwanzaa, join artist Camilla Younger and create zawadis (gifts) that include jewelry, a woven mat (Mkeka), and greeting cards.

Dec. 30 Kwanzaa: Nia (Purpose), 10:30 a.m. Melvin Deal and the African Heritage Dancers and Drummers conduct a Kwanzaa hands-on workshop that includes instrument making, drumming, and dancing plus a performance in celebration of the fifth Kwanzaa principle, Nia (Purpose).

Jan. 5 We Shall Overcome: The Song That Moved a Nation (Video 58 min.), 10:30 a.m. We Shall Overcome traces the origins of the civil rights movement through a single song, performed by the SNCC Freedom Singers; Peter, Paul, and Mary; and Joan Baez. Andrew Young, Julian Bond, and other veterans of the 1960s reminisce about the meaning of the song..

Jan. 8 The Music of West Africa, 2 p.m. Brother Ah and the Sound Awareness Ensemble lead a workshop that provides a compelling introduction to the rhythms of traditional Africa. The audience can participate in the drum circle..

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.

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In the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen conditions, this work may be cancelled, rescheduled or extended as needed. For more information about this work or the 11th Street Bridge Project, please contact Public Information Manager Bryon Johnston at 202-484-2330, ext. 137 or visit ddot.dc.gov/11thStreetBridge.

DC gets $3 million to Build Sustainable Communities in SE Washington On Oct. 20, the DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), in partnership with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition, was awarded $3 million under HUD’s Sustainable Community Challenge Grant program – the maximum award and the largest amount awarded to any single awardee. DHCD will use this funding to build on major investments in Historic Anacostia by the District and federal governments. Despite its assets, Historic Anacostia has struggled for years as a very low income community lacking economic opportunities for its residents.

Although this work will encompass the Congress Heights, Anacostia, and St. Elizabeths areas, an emphasis will be placed on Historic Anacostia, ensuring that neighborhood residents benefit from the 11th Street bridge redevelopment, the proposed streetcar line in Historic Anacostia, and the new federal job center at St. Elizabeths. mwcog.org

85th Annual Black History Luncheon Tickets on Sale Now Reserve your spot at the Renaissance Washington DC Hotel, 999 Nineth St. NW, to hear guest speaker, Mr. Lerone Bennett, Jr., Editor Emeritus of Ebony Magazine on Saturday, Feb. 26, 12:30-3:00 p.m. (book signing at 10:30 a.m.). Individual tickets $75-$100. Deadline to purchase is Feb. 2, while seats are available. 202-865-0053. asalh.org

United Service Organizations (USO) is the official charitable partner. The Bowl, now entitled “The Military Bowl presented by Northrop Grumman,” benefitting the USO, is in its third year and will be played Dec. 29 at RFK Stadium. This season, the game is scheduled to feature an Atlantic Coast Conference team vs. a Conference USA opponent. Tickets are $25-$90 and on sale now at Ticketmaster.com or 202-785-BOWL. MilitaryBowl.org.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance The District Department of the Environment’s Energy office has moved. District residents who are out of heating oil or whose electric or gas is disconnected, should go to one of the new locations. DC residents in Wards 6,7, and 8 whose service has been disconnected or are out of heating oil will be processed Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at 2100 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave. SE, Room 404. 202-535-2600. ddoe.dc.gov

DPR Lifeguarding The District of Columbia Department of Parks and Recreation staffs certified American Red Cross lifeguards year round in order to serve residents and guests at DPR Aquatic Facilities. In order to maintain this level of excellence DPR regularly hosts training sessions to certify those interested in becoming lifeguards. Sessions include conditioning exercises and complete American Red Cross lifeguard training in three areas: Lifeguarding, First Aid, and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) /AED (Automated External Defibrillator) for the professional rescuer. Classes cost $100 for DC residents. Contact DPR Aquatics at 202-671-1289 to register or receive more information. dpr.dc.gov

Annual “One Warm Coat” Drive The Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism announces that this year, the annual “One Warm Coat” holiday coat drive, which runs through December 10, will extend its collection from District government agencies to the public and private sector for the first time. With hypothermia season approaching, Serve DC is calling on District residents and employees to donate new and gently used winter coats of all sizes. Drop coats off at William Rumsey Aquatic Center, 635 North Carolina Ave. SE. 202724-4495. Point of Contact: David. brooks@dc.gov. Drop off days and times: Monday-Friday 6:30-9:00 a.m.; noon-5:00 p.m.; 6:30-9:00 p.m.

11th Street Bridge Project

Citing its overwhelming desire to continue its support of those Americans who protect our freedom, Northrop Grumman has become the presenting partner of the previously entitled EagleBank Bowl, while the

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) began construction of 11th Street Bridge Project in December 2009 to replace the two existing bridges with three new bridges and improve the related interchanges. When completed in mid2013, the $300-million the project will improve mobility by providing separate freeway and local traffic

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Military Bowl in Washington, DC to Benefit USO

connections to both directions of DC 295, the Southeast-Southwest Freeway and local streets on both sides of the Anacostia River; provide a shared path for pedestrians and bicycles, as well as rails to allow future streetcar connections; replace the existing functionally deficient and structurally obsolete bridges; Provide an additional alternate evacuation route from our Nation’s Capital, and include new trail connections, improved drainage and other environmental investments.

Projected to serve almost 180,000 vehicles per day by 2030, the existing bridges lack connections to allow travel directly from southbound DC 295/Anacostia Freeway to the Southeast-Southwest Freeway or from the Southeast-Southwest Freeway to northbound DC 295. The two new freeway bridges will provide these connections. The third bridge will carry local traffic between city streets on both sides of the river and provide additional connections to both directions of DC 295. The project is the largest ever constructed by DDOT and is the first river bridge replacement in the District in more than 40 years. 202-484-2330. ddot.dc.gov and theanacostiawaterfront.com

DDOT Starts Installation of New Solar-Powered Single Space Meters District Department of Transportation (DDOT) crews have begun installing 1150 new solar-powered, single-space meters that accept credit cards as well as coins. The new single-space meters are scheduled to

be installed in a number of areas in northwest and southwest DC. The locations for the new meters are based on the following criteria; 1)high demand/revenue and turnover, 2) $2/hour rate, 3) locations with aging meter stock. The machines accept Visa or Master Card, credit or debit as well as coins including dollars, quarters, dimes and nickels. In addition, the “smart” meters alert DDOT and the contractor via text message or e-mail if the meter is malfunctioning. ddot.dc.gov

Volunteer with the Metropolitan Police Department and Toys for Tots Volunteers groups are needed (even if just for a day) through Dec. 18, 8:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m. for five, eight and ten hour shifts. Duites include sorting and categorizing items by age groups (some heavy lifting involved), data entry, bagging and distributing toys. The Old DC General Hospital, 1900 Massachusetts Ave. SE. For more information, contact Charnette Robinson at Charnette.Robinson@ dc.gov or Yvonne Smith at Yvonne.

Smith@dc.gov or 202-727-4218.

HIV Testing, Counseling, and Referral Training Offered in January If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer and make a difference in your community, consider this training. You will learn to answer questions about HIV, administer HIV tests, and provide results, connecting people to the resources they need. Once you complete this training, you will be able to volunteer at the DC Center for HIV testing events conducted in partnership with Whitman-Walker Clinic. You will need to attend both training sessions to complete your training. They are Saturdays January 22 and 29, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Your training will culminate on Feb. 5 for the National first HIV testing event, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, where you will be supervised doing HIV testing and referrals and fulfill your required supervision hours. (if you cannot volunteer on Feb. 5, this final step can be scheduled for a later date). If you are interested, email your name, address, and email address to contact@thedccenter.org.

How to Tour the White House Parties of 10 or more can schedule tours through their Member of Congress. Call the US Capitol switchboard at 202224-3121. DC residents should ask for Congressional Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. These self-guided tours will be scheduled approximately one month from the requested date. Tour requests will be accepted up to six months is advance. 202456-704. whitehouse.gov/history/tours

Volunteer to Support West African Women Volunteer with Shea Yeleen International, a nonprofit organization that seeks to empower West Africa women shea butter producers to achieve economic independence, at their African Cultural Holiday Celebration.

Shea Yeleen needs volunteers to assist with setup, welcoming and greeting attendees, distributing information on Shea Yeleen, and collecting attendee contact information. Event is on Saturday, Dec. 18, 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. at Eastern Market, 225 Seventh St. SE. . To register for this event or for further information on the African Cultural Holiday Celebration or Shea Yeleen, please contact Rahama Wrig 202-2853435. rwright@sheayeleen.org

DC Department of Health Bedbug Summit The DC Department of Health is organizing a summit titled “Bed Bugs Are Changing Our World” on Jan. 13, at 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at 441 Fourth St. NW, Room 1107. The summit will include a discussion about the District’s latest campaign efforts to end bed bugs in our city. At the summit we will aim to leave participants with new opportunities for action, and to start the dialogue on creative and effective approaches to dealing with bed bugs. RSVP to Gerard Brown Program Manager, Bureau of Community Hygiene at gerard. brown@dc.gov or (202) 5352636. ●

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

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

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 19

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS The Numbers

Tax-Incredible!

District Has Lowest Taxes In The Region, Middle Class Pays The Most, And Other Surprising But True DC Tax Facts

by Aleksandra Gajdeczka and Ed Lazere

U

nless you’ve been living under a rock, you have heard about the District’s revenue crisis. The city is short at least $175 million for the current fiscal year, and the projected budget shortfall for the next ranges from $400 million to $600 million. An endless number of questions could be asked about this fiscal pickle, the most fundamental: being: What do we do about it?

Some folks believe that the only way out is to cut DC’s budget, using phrases like “tightening our belt” or “across the board cuts.” Those terms mask the fact that budget cuts mean scaling back services that matter to us all. With a cuts-only approach, how can we keep school reform moving forward? Maintain DC’s terrific new stock of libraries and rec centers?

Meet the needs of residents hurt by the downturn? As Mayor-elect Gray

prominently stated at a community town hall, recent budget cuts are “not only down to the bone, but we’re into the bone marrow.”

Others have suggested that they wouldn’t mind seeing their taxes raised so that city improvements, programs, and services can continue.

At nearly all of Gray’s neighborhood town hall meetings, residents stood up to tell Mr. Gray that they would prefer to pay more in taxes than to see grave budget cuts.

But to really form an opinion about whether and how to include new revenues in the budget equation, it’s important to understand how DC’s tax system has changed in recent years, who is paying how much, and how the taxes owed by DC residents compare with our neighbors.

Taking a closer look at DC’s tax system reveals that rates have fallen for two of the three main tax sourc-

es, and that taxes for DC residents compare favorably with the suburbs.

Meanwhile, DC’s tax system now falls most heavily on middle-income families. Together, these suggest that it’s reasonable to consider some tax increases, especially if that is needed to preserve investments that are important to DC’s future.

Fill in the Blank: Economy Up, Taxes Down. Economy Down, Taxes ____.

It’s not uncommon to cut taxes when times are good and the economy is booming, and to raise taxes when things turn south. During the economic boom of the 2000s, DC’s tax collections streamed in like a mighty river, giving the District’s leaders flexibility to make sizable tax cuts.

DC’s income tax rates were lowered notably in the last decade. The

top tax rate fell from 9.5 percent to 8.5 percent, and rates for other brackets fell, too. A new Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) was adopted in 2000, providing targeted tax reductions to low-income working families. The reductions totaled more than $140 million. By 2008, income tax collections relative to total income in the city had fallen to the lowest level in 20 years.

Property taxes have been cut as well. Since 2000, DC has boosted the homestead deduction from $30,000 to $67,500, set a 10 percent cap on annual increases in taxable assessments, and chopped the property tax rate from $0.96 per $100 in assessed value to $0.85. Despite big jumps in home values, many homeowners actually saw their property tax bills drop in the mid-2000s. Businesses also got a break in their property taxes.

Middle-Income Families Pay the Most.

Would you design a tax system where moderate-income residents pay a much larger share of their income in taxes than higher-income residents? Of course not. Yet in DC, that is exactly what we have. The main reason for this is the city’s reliance on sales and excise taxes. The impact of these taxes is greatest on lower-income residents because they need to spend all they take in, while higher income residents do not.

DC’s lowest-income DC residents pay 6.2 percent of income in taxes–the lowest of all income groups–thanks to DC’s large Earned

20 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

Income Tax Credit. But beyond that group, DC tax system has an upside-down quality, with taxes as a share of income getting lower as income grows larger.

DC families with incomes between $20,000 and $60,000 spend about 10 percent of their income in local property, income, and sales taxes. On the other hand, DC residents making $1,500,000 or more– the top one percent of earners–pay just 8 percent of income in taxes.

Recent tax increases have exacerbated this pattern. Increases in the general sales tax, the cigarette tax, and the gas tax–and the decision to apply the sales tax to soda — affected low- and moderate-income residents more than high-income residents. In other words, the tax system has become less fair.

The Measuring Stick: How Do We Compare, and How Much Does It Matter?

Once upon a time, back in the 90s, taxes owed by DC residents were similar to or higher than taxes owed by residents of surrounding counties in Maryland and Virginia.

But these days are long gone. For most income groups, DC taxes are now lower than or the same as taxes on residents of adjacent jurisdictions.

For low-income earners taxes owed are roughly equal across jurisdictions for households without kids.

A single person earning $15,000, for example, would pay about the same in DC as in the suburbs. The story changes for low-income families with children who qualify for large local Earned Income Tax Credits in Maryland and DC, but not in Virginia. A family with two children earning $25,000 qualifies for a refund of $400 in DC, but $1,800 in Montgomery County and $1,000 in Prince George’s County. A Virginia family at this income would owe $200. Maryland’s larger refund is due to a stronger EITC program, which exists at both at the state and the county level in Montgomery County.

At the middle-income level, however, DC taxes are substantially lower than those of surrounding

neighbors. A married couple with two kids earning $100,000 would pay $5,200 in combined property and income taxes in DC, compared to $7,500 in Montgomery, Fairfax, and Arlington counties, and $10,000 in Prince George’s. At the $200,000 income level, the story is similar. DC’s income taxes are about the same as in Maryland and higher than in Virginia, but DC’s property taxes are the lowest in the region, and DC doesn’t have a car tax like Virginia counties.

While it’s good to know how our taxes compare regionally, that doesn’t mean that it’s important to aim to be the low-tax leader. Residents in Montgomery and Fairfax Counties agree to pay higher taxes because they want the services that come with that. Nationally, the states that have the smallest tax systems tend to invest the least in education — not a smart strategy for global competitiveness.

What To Do? Why Tax Increases Should Be Part of the Debate.

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This review shows that the District used its growth and prosperity of the past decade to reduce taxes for virtually every household and business. The city also used that growth and prosperity to invest in schools, health care, transportation, and public safety, among others.

We are now at the point–three years into a recession– where the tax rates we have in place are no longer enough to support the investments we’ve made. Because tax rates have fallen and DC’s taxes are in line with suburban taxes, a budget-balancing plan that includes both cuts in spending and revenue increases is perfectly reasonable. Given that DC taxes fall most heavily on moderateincome families, raising taxes that affect higher-income households – such as new income tax rates for DC’s top earners – is a good first place to look.

Gajdeczka 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 ★

21

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

East Washington Opinions by various contributors

Remove Harriet Tregoning To Hon.Vincent C. Gray The Penn-Branch Citizens/Civic Association asks you not to appoint Office of Planning Director Harriet Tregoning to any post in your administration.

In Penn-Branch’s experience, Ms. Tregoning and her staff have displayed the same dismissive attitude and disrespect to District residents as former schools chancellor Michelle Rhee. The facts that Ms. Tregoning’s demeanor toward residents has been less well chronicled than that of Ms. Rhee, and that Ms. Tregoning has maintained a collegial relationship with the Council, unlike Ms. Rhee, do not mitigate the hostility she has shown toward us.

Ms. Tregoning’s undoubted energy, talents and commitment are beside the point. Substantively, Ms. Tregoning has been deaf to any views that do not comport with her predetermined goals, making the community input process a sham. No major views expressed by the Association and the majority of individual Penn-Branch residents were reflected in the original or final proposals from the Office of Planning regarding the Pennsylvania Avenue Great Streets SE project or the Penn-Branch neighborhood commercial site. The very limited input we obtained came through the Council small area plan approval process.

The Office of Planning has a one-size-fits-all planning toolkit that is oblivious to neighborhood character and sees no need for a diverse urban fabric.

The Washington of Ms. Tregoning’s envisioning is uniformly high, tight and dense, a landscape of unbroken streetwalls with limited setbacks and almost unlimited uses. There appears to be no room in Ms. Tregoning’s Washington for any kind of development restraint; no value for modest scale; no place for quiet side streets. These qualities must be present in a world class city in co-existence with the bold and busy aspects of the urban environment.

A majority of District residents want to move in

a new direction characterized by respect for all residents and steered by policies that reflect a range of divergent views. Those goals cannot be achieved under Ms. Tregoning’s leadership.

Thank you for considering our views, Respectfully submitted, Penn-Branch Citizens/Civic Association Gilbert Bussey, President, James Ferguson, Vice-President, Marcia Ferguson, Secretary, and Laura Richards, Co-Chair, Legislative Committee.

A Fix For The Ward 8 Democrats The current administration of the Ward Eight Democrats was elected in the fall of 2009 because of the perception that nothing much was being accomplished by the organization and the level of outreach was insufficient for bringing is new active members.

Well, with about one year left to go before the organization’s next convention and election, the current administration led by Jacque Patterson, who recently expressed his desire to be appointed or elected to the District of Columbia City Council position vacated by incoming Chairman Kwame Brown, will need to work a lot harder to ensure that expectations are met based on progress to date. Specifically, a lot of the load of carrying the organization is still borne by members who had been active in the organization for a long period of time. Also, significant numbers of new active members have not materialized as envisioned; and certain new members who have come in and been placed in positions of leadership are struggling to get their bearings.

This organization is only going to be as strong as its committee structure and the ability of these committees to motivate and invigorate. There are seven standing committees of the organization -- Public Relations; Senior; Youth; Fund Raising and Finance; Issues and Legislation; Program; and Membership and Voter Registration. A number of them have had

heads or Chairpersons since February 2010. However, few of these committees have identified their members, held meetings, or reported to the organization on their objectives, activities, and/or accomplishments.

Even though all of the active members in the Ward Eight Democrats are volunteers, it should be understood that when you take a position of leadership in an organization the expectations are that you know what you are doing and/or will exert the energy that is necessary to lead and do an effective job. Thus, when a leader, whether elected or appointed, accepts a position, they agree to be accountable for their performance. The organization depends on its leaders to set up the organization in a manner to make it operate effectively. Just holding a title does little to further the mission and objectives of the organization!

There should be little fear in asking yourself as an elected or appointed leader are you leading and what is your contribution based on expectations. If time will not allow you as an individual to lead and serve your purpose, there should be no shame in stepping down to just serve as a member of a committee to allow for its progress. Even if a committee leader feels in their mind that they can do the job, until they stand their committee up with members, hold meetings, and set and meet objectives, the leader has proven little.

In contrast, when committees are adequately set up and operating, they can continue to function even with leaders resting on their laurels, or through the leadership of Vice-Chairs.

So in the remaining time of the current administration, I ask that committee leaders in the Ward Eight Democrats either give the organization the benefit of your best effort to ensure that your committees are meeting, reporting, and operating effectively, or have the humility to step aside and serve as a member, and allow someone more capable to lead.

Finally, I ask that any Ward Eight Democrat reading this article and who is not currently a member of a committee to please sign up! The organization needs you too!

Darryl Ross Ward 8 Democrats ●

Economic Revival in Anacostia Begins With…

by Charles Wilson

L

ong-term, sustainable economic development in downtown Anacostia begins with the appreciation of …HISTORIC PRESERVATION. Typically, when you hear people talk about what it will take to see economic prosperity in Anacostia they mention new stores, office space, new homes, new residents and jobs for longtime residents. Yes, these are all things that will be the result of economic development in Anacostia, but in order to take dramatic steps forward, we must first start with the appreciation of what we already have in the form historic preservation.

I first moved to Anacostia really for one reason--I admired the historic character and feel of the neighborhood. I appreciated the fact that my home was 100+ years old, that there were other homes in the neighborhood just like it and where I could walk to a historic landmark -- the Frederick Douglass House. I saw potential not only in the neighborhood, but also along the commercial corridor of Good Hope Rd and Martin Luther King Ave., SE. It’s exciting to hear others see the same potential. I hear these conversations every year in September when I participate in the annual Anacostia Coordinating Council Boat Ride. In years past, I would purposely take the community bus to the boat docks. The bus will drive through Old Town Alexandria and almost every time without fail as soon as we arrive in Old Town, people will comment on how Downtown Anacostia is similar to Old Town Alexandria-- from the homes, to the parks, to the commercial buildings-- there are numerous similarities.

So why is it a struggle to get people who live outside of Anacostia to come visit, while on the other end they are more than willing to tour Old Town? One would say that the

reputation of East of the River plays a major role. But in addition to that it is because it is a challenge to get developers to appreciate the historic character of the neighborhood. Instead, what we get along the borders of the historic district are new buildings that do not compliment the neighborhood. It’s almost as if developers come into the community with blinders on. It’s as if they think “I own a piece of land, I have money, and I’m going to build what I want,” and not even consider asking community residents what they would like to see. For an example of this, you can look no further than the Salvation Army building. Don’t get me wrong, I am not opposed to new development, in fact I want it, but just take one look at the architecture of the Salvation Army Building and you can tell the designer was happy to find out that the property was just outside of the historic district boundary.

Historic preservation is as important to Anacostia as it is to Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria and Capitol Hill. These other locations are a regional attraction not only because there are stores and shops there, but also because the residents there take historic preservation seriously and demand that new developers do the same!

According to Washington.org, travel and tourism support more than 66,000 fulltime jobs in DC, generating $2.6 billion in wages. Though Anacostia has the Big Chair, The Frederick Douglass Home, the Anacostia Museum and some of the oldest homes in the District, it is my guess that Anacostia gets less than 1% of those tourism dollars.

Imagine if we were able to get 5% of these dollars, how many jobs would this create in SE? We could actually create our own industry with the presentation of historic charms that have been here for years. And it’s simple….all you have to do is get all large and small developers in Anacostia to build in a way to compliment the historic district and not take away.

I see the beauty and potential in Historic Anacostia--can you?

Charles Wilson is a neighborhood activist in Historic Anacostia located in Ward 8. He was recently elected as Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner in Single Member District 8A04. He can be reached at charleswilsonhu@gmail.com ●

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 23

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Digital Divide Increasing Internet Access for DC Residents rector of Byte Back, said one of the most difficult obstacles is “the basic functionality of getting through the day without access to what everyone else has access to.”

“If you don’t know how to use a computer, you are at an almost insurmountable disadvantage in the job market,” she continued. “You’d be hard-pressed to find an employer in the district that doesn’t have an online application or who doesn’t ask for a resume by email.”

Confronting the Challenge

by Lex Kiefhaber

L

ast summer Jonathan Colbert had just finished his junior year at Calvin Coolidge Senior High School and he needed a job. His first stop was DC Employment, which matched him with a program he had never heard of -- Byte Back’s Summer Youth Employment Program.

The program is designed to educate senior citizens in computer literacy, teaching them everything from how to create a word document to upload pictures of their grandchildren on the web. What started out as a summer holdover until his life would be consumed with the SAT and college applications turned into an unforgettable learning experience for Jonathan, and even more so for the dozens of senior citizens who, for the first time, were introduced to the digital world.

Byte Back is one of many organizations whose goal is to teach people how to use the internet and equip them with the means to do so. The gap between those who have computers and a stable connection to the web in their home and those who are not net-savvy, or, in some cases, have

24 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

never even used a computer, is referred to as the “Digital Divide.” For the iPhone junkies, Facebook addicts, and incessant googlers the world over, it may seem almost incomprehensible that someone could be totally insulated from the digital universe, which is part of the reason internet illiterates often go unnoticed.

By the Numbers According to a report published by the Children’s Partnership in 2008, 40% of Washington DC households do not have a computer and 47% do not use the internet at home. Those numbers skyrocket for households earning less than $15,000 annually, of which 68% do not own a computer, and 79% do not have access to the internet at home.

Across DC, the rate of internet connectivity is highly correlated to geography. A press release from the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) announcing a “Broadband Summit” stated that “while the District has a citywide broadband adoption rate of 57.87%, adoption rates are near 100% in the more affluent neighborhoods, but below 40% in lower-income areas, which cluster

| DECEMBER 2010

in Wards 5, 7, and 8.”

The poorer communities of DC are the most affected in rough economic times, and are the ones whose residents would most benefit from the plethora of information and opportunities available on the internet.

Kelley Ellsworth, the Executive DiTOP: 1. The “i-am-dc” truck provides free internet access.

LEFT and BOTTOM: 2&3. People standing in line at the library for Internet access.

Photos by Lex Kiefhaber

Teaching a willing student to learn how to effectively get online is only part of the challenge. Those isolated from the digital universe must first understand what they are missing. Chris Tonjes, the Director of Public Information Technology for the DC Public Libraries, put it like this: “If you don’t have a computer and you don’t have broadband access,

Bryan Sivak, DC’s Chief Technology Officer.

Photo by Lex Kiefhaber

a lot of times it’s because you don’t understand why you need it.”

This obstacle is especially prevalent in adults who have never used a computer for work, and who, on average, have less formal education. “If you cannot read, you aren’t thinking about turning on a computer,” Mr. Tonjes said. With this population, they must first understand “how the internet could be relevant to them.”

The DC Public Libraries have teamed up with Byte Back and a host of other nonprofit organizations to address the multi-faceted challenge of closing the digital divide.

In August the DC Public Library received a $1.5 Million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for programs targeted toward increasing computer and internet literacy.

A portion of this money will be spent on a program to train 1,600 people in a range of computer related activities from proficiency in Microsoft Office, to resume construction and online job application. Each participant will undergo a 32-hour educational program and upon completion they will be awarded their own refurbished laptop. Cricket Mobile has agreed to provide 1 year of free broadband access, and a reduced rate thereafter.

The Library system is also undergoing a digital facelift. At the end of 2006 there were 135 DC Public access computers in the DC Library system; currently there are 660. Using money from the ARRA grant, that number will jump to over 1,200 by the end of 2011. Additionally, the bandwidth will be increased from about 10 megabites per second to 100 megabites per second, and

for some locations as much as 1 gigabite per second, according to Mr. Tonjes. These efforts will not only make internet connectivity more expeditious within the library system, it will cut down on the average two and half hour wait for one hour of computer use.

These developments are made possible through $27 million in federal grants from the ARRA awarded to OCTO. At the “Broadband Summit” OCTO unveiled its plan to fund “the public awareness campaign and a variety of other major digital inclusion programs. These initiatives include publicprivate partnerships to provide free computers and training in underserved areas, expansion of public wi-fi hotspots, community broadband pilot programs, and a citywide public access broadband network leveraging the District’s municipal fiber-optic network, DC-Net.” In attempts to expedite the proliferation of broadband access, OCTO will equip public facilities, such as libraries, recreation centers, certain senior citizen homes, police stations and fire departments with wi-fi accessible to anyone in proximity of the router.

Additionally, OCTO unveiled the Mobile Tech Lab, a hot-spot on wheels. The flagship web-bus will rove the city, visiting communities far from static public internet access sites. Using the onboard computers and presentation center, the Mobile Tech Lab will offer lessons in internet use and basic computer literacy. Look for a schedule in the coming months delineating where the bus will be on OCTO’s website, OCTO.dc.gov.

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SEVEN PRINCIPLES of KWANZAA

Moving Forward These and other initiatives are all elements of OCTO’s ongoing endeavor to bridge the District’s digital divide through widespread broadband adoption. The Chief Technology Officer in charge of OCTO, Bryan Sivak, said that substantial progress will “help the District expand education and employment opportunities for all our citizens and truly create ‘One City.’”

As the 21st century continues to unfold, access to the internet will be an increasingly fundamental aspect of daily life.

From accessing medical records to updating Facebook status, the digital world will be evermore tightly intertwined within the fabric of society. “Digital isolation in this day and age,” said Mr. Tonjes, “is the same thing as physical isolation.”

To this end, Jonathan Colbert will continue his efforts to introduce the computerilliterate to the world of internet connectivity. Before he ships off to college in the fall, he plans to return to Byte Back and resume his role as student-educator.

A Celebration of Family, Community, and Culture WHO: WHAT: WHEN: WHERE:

Ward Eight Democrats Annual Kwanzaa Celebration Saturday, December 18, 2010 12:00 – 2:00 PM Matthews Memorial Baptist Church 2616 Martin Luther King, Jr., Avenue, SE

For more information please contact Jacque Patterson at 202.834.2553 Please bring a dish!!

Our website just got a whole lot better!! www.capitalcommunitynews.com

For more information on Byte Back go to www. byteback.org or call 202-529-3395. ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 25

NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS

Capital Bikeshare Adds To Sustainable Living and Leisure But less than 1% of subscribers live in east DC

by L. Denise Jackson

C

apital Bikeshare is the newest program the Washington DC area to support a more sustainable environment and a metropolitan area becoming a greener and healthier space through “bike sharing.” Located around the District of Columbia, Crystal City, and Arlington are 1,100 bikes for people to run short errands, take in the sights while touring the city, or get some fresh air and exercise while biking.

Yet, of the 4,940 subscribers, 98 percent of which are annual members, less that 1 percent live east of the river. There are only 32 memberships with addresses in the zip codes 20019, 20020, and 20032.

One problem may be access to the bikes. Of the 110 bike stations 86 are west of the Anacostia River, 14 are in Northern Virginia within the beltway, and only nine are in service in Wards 7 and 8. An additional bike station is out of service at Branch and Pennsylvania Avenues due to construction. When I surveyed the bike stations on recent weekend mornings and afternoons, there were anywhere from four to 10 bikes in any rack. The bike stations are conveniently located at Metro stations, libraries, newly established parks, or recently renovated areas with high foot traffic. One of the locations is located while coming off the ramp onto Martin Luther King Boulevard, which is right next to the government building where most riders may be arriving. A rider can simply take a Metro train to the Anacostia stop and ride a bike up Martin Luther King Boulevard to their office or to stores in the business district. It is a zero greenhouse gas emission option to travel.

Another problem may be that people just don’t know about the program. There is very little marketing or advertising that I have seen. I noticed the bike racks before I began writing the story and because of my interest

26 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

Capital Bikeshare rack at the Benning Branch Library with the self-payment kiosk. Photo by L. Denise Jackson

in sustainable living I investigated the program. However, if someone does not come across the racks outside of the metro rail, would they know that BikeShare exists? Is there an opportunity for potential riders to learn about the program and become a subscriber? Will there be specials introduced in the spring to boost subscribers? I hope that all of these answers are “yes” because sustainable living is needed for everyone.

How It Works The system is pretty simple. Anyone who wants to use a bike pays for usage for a 24-hour period, by the month, or by the year. An annual membership is $75 paid online via credit card or debit card that works out to about $0.20 per day to use.

Once registered, you receive a key to use at any of the bike stations in the city. Riders who choose to be a 24hour member can take two bikes out at the same time with the same credit card which adds some convenience.

If a bike station is full, you have 15 minutes to return it to a neighboring station located on the dual-sided information panel that provides maps and other usage instruction. If the neighboring station is full or there is an issue

| DECEMBER 2010

with the actual bike station, you can call the Bikeshare customer service number at the station for direction on where to return it without being charged the rather expensive replacement fee.

The daily and monthly rentals are convenient for short-term or instant use. If you need a bike at a moment’s notice, you just go to one of the stations, follow the directions to pay via credit or debit card and receive a code to release the bike from its station. You must return it in 24 hours.

You are responsible for securing the bike at your destination and having the proper safety equipment.

Places to Bike This program is great for those who like exploring. There are several National Parks, historic sites and the National Arboretum with biking trails that provide excellent leisurely places to ride and take in interesting scenery.

The most spacious are east of the Anacostia and Fort Dupont Park, one of the largest parks in Washington, is 376 wooded acres that invite bike riding, picnicking and viewing scenic nature.

The park also provides environmental education and seasonal activities.

If you are not sure where the bike paths are located, you can go to the

Two-sided information panel includes local and regional maps, usage instructions, and Captial Bikeshare information.

Photo by L. Denise Jackson

Capital Bikeshare website (www. capitalbikeshare.com) for maps and safety tips. There is also an extensive online instruction manual to maximize your Bikeshare experience.

While you may have a bike of my own, this is a perfect option for you to not have to load your bike in the car

and take it somewhere else. It’s perfect if you need an extra bike for a houseguest who may need a bike during their visit. You can jump on the Metro and when you arrive at the Minnesota Avenue or Anacostia Metro station, just rent a bike to visit local attractions like the Anacostia Cultural Community Museum, The ARC, Center of Green Urbanism, or art galleries. You can ride to play tennis at one of the parks, or ride on a bike path through the Anacostia or River Terrace Parks. You may want to bike through some of the quiet neighborhoods off Good Hope and Naylor, such as Fairfax Village and continue biking to or through Fort Dupont Park.

The program overall encourages people to be healthy, explore communities east of the river, and support the city’s overall initiative to be more sustainable and decrease the carbon footprint.

The Capital Bikeshare site is very informative website covering everything you need to get started and most other questions that come to mind. As the seasons change, let us hope that the marketing and collaborative opportunities are created and expanded to increase ridership and support the sustainable lifestyle that is being adopted in other parts of the District of Columbia.

After all, Washington, DC is the first jurisdiction in North America to launch a bikesharing system much like those in other parts of the world, like Asia, Australia, the Netherlands, and Paris. So we should make every effort to use it.

L. Denise Jackson, founder of The Professional Green Network, is an author, speaker, and sustainability consultant. Some may wonder why the subscribership is so low. Is it lack of marketability, is the process complex and bureaucratic like most programs in the District, or is it the payment options? The process is simple and Ward 8 is the greenest ward in the city, which is perfect for biking. ●

Small Business Incubator Opens in Anacostia

GreatSchools, one of the first tenants at The Hive, has been active in DC since their arrival in the summer of 2009. Photo: GreatSchools DC

by John Muller

A

t 2027 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave. in Historic Anacostia there is a newfound buzz of activity. The Hive, home of innovators, visionaries, and entrepreneurs, opens this month as a “creative and shared workspace for freelancers, satellite offices, and small businesses.”

An outgrowth of a collaboration between local leader Duane Gautier of the Arch Development Corporation, and members of River East Emerging Leaders, with funding from the DC Department of Housing and Community Development, The Hive is located in a Federal and DC government enterprise community and a Federal Small Business Administration Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Zone, providing tenants a preferential designation when applying for contracts.

Located in a fully renovated two story building with conference rooms, plasma TVs, Wi-Fi Access, and a front desk receptionist, The Hive resembles the Cultural Development Corporation downtown and the Affinity Lab on U Street and Adams Morgan, which have been successful in helping launch entrepreneurs and providing space for emerging artsbased non-profits.

“Anacostia will benefit in two major ways; the Hive will bring in new organizations, businesses and individuals that will increase the traffic for established businesses in the area and it will also improve the image of the neighborhood by showing that Anacostia is a desirable place to conduct business,” says Gautier.

With the opening of the Honfleur Gallery at 1241 Good Hope Road in February of 2007, Anacostia has seen numerous art galleries subsequently open bringing an increased awareness and interest in the neighborhood.

“Over the past year, ARCH and private landlords in Anacostia, such as 4 Points LLC which represents Curtis Brother’s property, have received three to five phone calls a week inquiring about small office space,” notes Gautier.

GreatSchools at the Hive “We wouldn’t consider being anywhere else,” remarks Natanya Levioff, DC Program Director for GreatSchools, a national organization that works with parents, schools, and community organizations to make information available about schools across the country and the more than 275 public, public charter, and private schools within the city limits.

With a presence in DC since the late summer of 2009, GreatSchools

receives funding from national sources such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Walton Family Foundation, the NewSchools Venture Fund and local sources including Fight For Children and DC’s Office of the State Superintendent of Education.

Previously located in a shared space in the Ward 7 neighborhood of Fort Chapin, Levioff says their new location at The Hive enables GreatSchools to better connect with community partners such as the Far Southeast Family Collaborative, Anacostia Library, and Higher Achievement, to name a few.

With their targeted niche “educating parents on the school landscape,” GreatSchools says it’s “important to be on the ground where we can reach parents who, for whatever reason, are not comfortable using the Internet.”

Their website features a profile for each individual school in the city with its own ranking information and independent review, along with a printed version, the “DC School Chooser,” that is readily distributed throughout the city.

Although GreatSchools is a relatively established organization looking to expand its role, The Hive is open to organizations and entrepreneurs looking to start from the ground up.

“What makes The Hive great is that with the different membership levels there is something for everyone.

Our membership options are affordable and flexible enough that members can transition from one membership type to another as their business grows until hopefully they graduate from The Hive into their own office space,” says Peele. “That is what we see The Hive becoming, an opportunity for small businesses and organizations to realize their full potential.

We provide the infrastructure and the opportunity in which to cultivate their business or organization.”

With space limited, the Hive is currently accepting membership applications now.

Lease terms vary depending on membership type and range from three months (virtual) to one year (private office). To learn more about The Hive or take a tour, contact Nikki Peele at 202-352-6585 or email nikki@respindc.com. ●

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 27

DISTRICT GOVERNMENT SEEKS TO DEVELOP

BIG K

PROPERTIES

Residents skeptical that their input is being respected articles & photos by John Muller

“

T

he warlords in the Congo have more integrity than these people,” says James L. Hope, a long-time resident of Anacostia and international traveler, one of many longtime East Washington residents who expressed their suspicions during a meeting held last month by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) at the Anacostia Gateway Government Center. The meeting was held to solicit community input on the agency’s summer acquisition of 2228, 2234, 2238, and 2252 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE, known as the “Big K” site.

“This is nothing more than a dog and pony show,” Rev. Oliver Johnson said as he rose to his feet. “They are meeting the benchmarks of the grant. All they have to do is turn in those attendance sheets to meet the grant deadlines.

It’s pseudo participation.” Rev. Johnson, a sixth generation Washingtonian and former Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner later told East of the River, “They think we don’t have the acumen to see through the razzle-dazzle.”

Facts of the Purchase In July, DHCD acquired the Big K properties from the Kushner family for just under one mil28 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

lion dollars, thus avoiding the one million threshold requiring City Council scrutiny. DHCD hopes “to strategically invest in a long-standing abandoned and deteriorated group of properties that represent a blight to the Historic Anacostia neighborhood,” according to an official statement.

Presented at the meeting was DHCD’s timeline which called for “Next Steps” to incorporate community comments into an RFQ [Request for Proposals] and then issue an RFQ to secure development partners

by December 2010. DHCD’s recommendations were to secure a development partner by February 2011 and meet with the community, and by spring 2011 to continue “on-going community meetings around development timeline and program.”

DHCD’s Executive Director, Leila Edmonds, was not available for further comment. Along with other officials at last month’s meeting, she was decried as a “professional mover” by Rev. Johnson, who predicted that a changeover in Mayoral administrations could sharply change the organization’s leadership.

Anacostia Historic District At the heart of the future of the Big K site is the Anacostia Historic District which includes 2228, 2234, and 2238 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, but does not include the former site of Big K Liquors at 2252 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue.

In early 1978, after years of community driven advocacy, Anacostia was designated a Historic District, roughly bounded by Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue on the west, Fendall Street at the rear of the Frederick Douglass house on the east, and Bangor Street at Morris Road on the south. The historic designation by the Joint Committee on Landmarks of the National Capital includes 550 buildings dating from 1854 to 1930 within a 20 block area listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

“We feel that these buildings are important to the Anacostia Historic District. Now that the city is in control of these resources we feel they need

to be brought back into productive use in a timely fashion,” says Rebecca Miller, Executive Director of the DC Preservation League, which has listed the Anacostia Historic District on its 2005 and 2010 list of Most Endangered Places for Washington, DC. According to Catherine Buell, recently appointed Chair of the DC Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB), the Kushner family’s request to demolish the properties earlier this year was denied by the HPRB. “It is difficult to say what HPRB will and will not support at this point. We will have to wait and see

the former Big K liquor store, falling outside of the zoned Historic Anacostia District, to be demolished immediately. “What is most disturbing is that these social programs have a strong presence on the ‘main street’ where businesses should be located.”

Anacostia’s main streets remain blighted with a large inventory of vacant properties and a high concen-

OPPOSITE PAGE: 1. 2228 and 2234 MLK Jr. Ave. 2. Anacostia Historic District Sign THIS PAGE: 3. Aerial view of the Big K site 4. 2252 MLK Jr Ave.

a proposal before the board,” says Buell, an associate attorney with Patton Boggs.

Neighborhood Suspicions Expressing a need for parking, workforce development, affordable housing, and locations for area youth, some in the meeting focused on Anacostia’s need for commerce.

“The Anacostia metro stop is the gateway to one of the most historic communities in the city, yet one of the most neglected in terms of high level development. The community has more than its fair share of social programs, like the Salvation Army Headquarters across the street from the Big K property,” remarked Drake Wilson, a resident of the 1600 block of V Street for more than two decades and an active member of numerous neighborhood civic groups. Drake called for

tration of social service agencies --- from Bread for the City on Good Hope Road to the Whitman Walker Clinic on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, and the Good Hope Institute, a high volume methadone clinic which attracts heroin users and their dealers who idle in the neighborhood throughout daylight hours.

“There’s a lot of hustling going around,” says Hannah Hawkins, known for her work with Children of Mine, an after-school program for neighborhood children, located at 2263 Mount View Place SE, directly behind the Big K site.

“There was trash everywhere.

Homeless men were sleeping on the back porch,” notes Hawkins who says the historic homes on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue were abandoned when she moved into her location on Mount View Place in May of 1992.

“It’s hard to tell what’s going to happen because you have a lot of speculators. They are always looking out for their concerns as opposed to the concerns of the general public,” observes Hawkins. “The Salvation Army went up like a thief in the night. They came into the community without any major references,” notes Hawkins, who says DHCD officials have yet to reach out to her in any way.

Questioning the timing of the purchase in the middle of this summer’s mayoral contest, Ward 8 City Councilmember Marion Barry says he was not informed of the DHCD’s purchase beforehand. In a subsequent letter, sent in November to District officials and community organizations, Barry writes, “It is unprecedented that the government would buy a liquor store because it’s an eyesore rather than getting DCRA [Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs] to clean it up.”

“If it is possible and can be done right we can move the houses to an alternative site,” Barry told East of the River. “In Washington we are so land poor we need to go up. I would support housing or office space with retail on the ground floor; something half the size of the Salvation Army building with parking on the bottom.”

Others in the community such as Nikki Peele, of Eat, Shop, Live Anacostia, a newly launched branding campaign, have expressed a desire that DHCD rehabilitate the current properties to become a restaurant and cultural center that can be used as a performing arts venue.

“Both parties, DC government and the community, want to see the best outcome for this property,” says Charles Wilson, ANC 8a04 elect and founding member of the Historic Anacostia Block Association.

The past decade of change and development that has defined the continued, albeit sometimes contentious, re-emergence of many of the city’s historic commercial corridors has eluded Historic Anacostia. With 2011 dawning, the process of change in Anacostia moves forward with lingering questions and suspicions as to what the future will bring to the Big K properties. ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 29

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

The Weekly News Focus on East Washington History article by John Muller | photos courtesy of Library of Congress

M

ore than a century ago an ambitious community-focused newspaper, The Weekly News, began appearing in households and businesses throughout the maturing neighborhoods of East Washington. The stories indicate that some issues have not changed in more than 100 years.

From Dec. 11, 1909, “It is surprising how, that for so long a time the Eastern Section has been without representation in the District’s form of government. Why this has been, we cannot clearly ascertain, but the fruits of it are apparent in our Eastern Section everywhere. Look at our streets and sidewalks, and our institutions and compare them with the Western Section. Note the comparison, in the appropriations and see if the rich have not fared sumptuously while the poor have suffered need.”

prietor and manager in latter issues of the newspaper.

Issues Covered

Launched in the summer of 1909, The Weekly News, “Devoted to the Eastern Section of the City,” first appeared on Saturdays as a four-page, three-column publication. By December it had expanded to seven columns with a smaller font and more than double the content of earlier issues. Individual editions first sold for three cents and later editions sold for a nickel while subscriptions were advertised at ten cents per month. The paper, similar to other upstarts in the city’s historical cannon of newspapers, was, as evidence is available, only published for its pioneering year.

Existing issues of the weekly paper can be found on the Library of Congress’ (LOC) Chronicling America website and can be viewed on microfilm. Holdings at the LOC cover from August to December 1909 with a total of thirteen surviving issues.

The newspaper’s offices were located on 23rd Street, south of Pennsylvania Avenue SE, in the Randle Highlands neighborhood. Elias Auger, a Baptist minister, is listed as pro-

From October 9, 1909, “Anacostia offers special advantages to home seekers, it is one of the most attractive suburbs of Washington.

It has schools of the best grade, churches of every denomination, its own fire departments and a separate police precinct and excellent car service which takes you to the heart of the city in 20 minutes.”

Early issues of The Weekly News are characterized by society listings, church news, and advertisements for insurance, real estate, groceries and dry goods.

Once the newspaper expanded, news of downtown Washington appeared regularly, as well as brief entries on national and international news.

Later editions prominently featured illustrations on the front page.

A reoccurring advertisement from the Anacostia Bank encourages readers to, “DO IT NOW! Start a Bank Account. What you save is clear profit – drawing interest. $1.00 opens an account.”

With prominent front page advertisements for “Property for Sale in all … Southeast…” including “Anacostia, Bennings, Congress Heights, East Washington Park, East Washington Heights, Garfield, Good Hope, Kenilworth, Hillsdale, Randle Highlands, Twinning City” the paper captures a moment in time when East Washington was a growing suburb of the city’s center.

From the December 11, 1909 edition we are reminded that issues of the past are still prescient today.

Within the contemporary context of the planned redevelopment of the Barry Farm and Park Chester communities we read, “OLD SHACKS CONDEMNED; Hundreds In Southeast Section May Be Torn

30 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

History

Down. The board for condemnation of insanitary buildings has it eyes on one hundred shacks in Garfield and Hillsdale, which are said to be so far gone and so unfit for habitation that only complete demolition will satisfy the standards of sanitary living. The shacks are occupied almost entirely by colored families.

Roy E. Haynes, secretary of the board, is sure that there will be no difficulty in carrying out the orders of the board. The owners of the buildings realize that to carry out the regulations and repair the dwellings would cost more than it would to tear them down and build new homes.”

From the November 13, 1909 edition, “Old Anacostia was shaken from center to circumference Sunday afternoon, about ten minutes after two, when a terrible fire broke out in the old stables below Shannon Place.

When the fire started the wind was blowing right toward the city. Had it continued Anacostia would have been burned to the ground. But Kind Providence willed it otherwise, and while the conflagration was fierce and disastrous, still no lives were lost. The scene was fascinating, yet horrible.

The old barn close to W Street was wooden and burned like a cauldron of oil. There were ten fire companies present and about $20,000 dollar loss.

The old stables were an eyesore to the citizens, yet they would rather they were demolished some other way. We hope that the owners of the ground will embrace this opportunity to improve the street and add their mite (sic) to help Anacostia progress.”

The Weekly News acknowledged its own means of distribution within the growing community, “Do we appreciate the Waiting Room News Stand at the end of the bridge? What would we do without it?”

If you have an idea for a future history focus, email John Muller at muller. h.john@gmail.com. ●

Living Local, Viva Local

I’m Ray’s the Steaks Biggest Fan! article and photos by Veronica O. Davis

A

nyone remember the opening theme song for the sitcom Cheers?

“Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.

You wanna be where you can see, our troubles are all the same.

You wanna be where everybody knows your name.”

I was a child when that show was on, but I remember watching it with my parents and thinking one day I was going to have a place that would be my version of Cheers. That day has come.

There is no secret that I am a fan of Ray’s the Steaks East River located at 3905 Dix Street NE. I supported Michael Landrum bringing Ray’s the Steaks to Ward 7 when the restaurant was under construction. I was standing in the front row at the ribbon cutting. I made it a point to eat at Ray’s the Steaks the first week it opened.

I have written about the restaurant several times on my blog. At one point I was eating at Ray’s two times a week. When I’m not working from home, I’m conducting business over lunch or dinner at Ray’s the Steaks.

Why do I love Ray’s so much?

One reason is the food. I have tried almost everything on the menu.

Brittany, one of the waitresses, makes fun of me when I study the menu.

She’s convinced I have it memorized.

My favorite is a Presidential Burger with American cheese, medium-rare with the cognac mushrooms on the side. For my sides I order regular French fries and the vegetable of the day as a substitute for the cole slaw.

My second favorite is the crab cake sandwich with the fried chicken as a close third. For dessert I like the Milk Chocolate Mousse and the Apple Cobbler. To drink I like half sweeten tea and half unsweeten tea.

Maybe Brittany was right. I do have the menu memorized.

Besides the food, I feel like Ray’s has become a community gathering place that brings the northern and southern neighborhoods of Ward 7 together. I will admit that prior to Ray’s the Steaks, I had never been north of Massachusetts Ave. SE. Now I venture all through the northern neighborhoods. Every time I eat at Ray’s I bump into someone I know, someone I recognize from a community meeting or I get introduced to someone whose name I recognize from the community listserv. Ray’s has also been a driving force at bring residents west of the river to our community.

Above all else, the reason why I am so faithful to Ray’s is the wonderful staff. Lee served me my first drink at Ray’s. He lives around the corner and is one of the hardest working employees. Lucas and Danielle, the managers, always greet me by name with a smile. Carlos promises me he going to cook my food for me. Brittany writes down my order before I even say it. Not only is the staff friendly, they are dedicated to the community.

For example, the staff took a teenager from the neighborhood who would hang outside of Ray’s the Steaks under their wings. They started teaching this young man a proper handshake, saying “yes” instead of “yeah”, the importance of going to college, and other life skills. When he made the Honor Roll, the staff hung his certificate on the wall. The last time I was there, Lucas told me the young man now works there.

Eating at Ray’s the Steaks is more than a dining experience for me. It’s about good people, good people and building community. “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.”

Veronica enjoying lunch with Maceo Thomas and Autumn Saxton-Ross.

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

■ Let’s Touch The Sky ••• Fourplay, Heads Up Here’s an excellent album that offers a blend of contemporary jazz and soulful blues anchored by some fine high-spirited musicians like Bob James (keyboards), Nathan East (bass & vocals), Chuck Loeb (guitars) and Harvey Mason (drums and percussion) with special guest star Anita Baker (“You’re My Thrill”). Highlights include “More Than A Dream,” “Pineapple Getaway,” “I’ll Still Be Lovin’ You,” featuring Nathan East, and “Love TKO” featuring Ruben Studdard.

by Jean-Keith Fagon

Crescent •••• Mike Mainieri, NYC Records A first-class double album of impeccable standards that offers some classic performances like “Naima,” “Nancy,” “Wise One, “Bye Bye Blackbird,” “Miles Mode,” “Giant Steps,” and “Body And Soul.” Meditative and at times almost cerebral,

the fecundity of the music ensures thoughtfulness with an undercurrent of superiority. Performers include Mike Mainieri (vibraphone), Charlie Mariano (alto sax), and Ilg (bass).”

Superbly recorded with three topquality musicians, the recordings are full of atmosphere but well balanced with a somewhat timeless quality.

Burnin’ ••• Paul Taylor, Peak Records One of coolest of today’s pied pipers of smooth contemporary jazz is saxophonist Paul Taylor.

Full of lovely swinging melodies, Mr. Taylor offers nightcrawlers some fun-loving music for wining and dining with a sexy touch of class. The latest album, Burnin’ is chock full of romantic interludes and jam-down-hip-come-loveme sassy jazz starting with “Back in the Day,” “It’s Like That,” “Me and Baby Brother,” “Remember the Love,” “Revival,” and “So Fine.”

Twillight ••• Luis Bonilla, New Jazz Consortium Although this album boasts a stellar collection of musicians (six to be exact), the music heard here never quite achieves its full potential and exemplify its accomplishments only with pieces like the title track, “Twillight,” “Cork Grease,” “Let It Be Said,” and “Visions.” Musicians include Luis Bonilla (trombone), Ivan Renta (sax), Bruce Barth (acoustic piano, Fender Rhodes, Hammond C3), Andy McKee (acoustic bass), John Riley (drums and percussion), and guest artist Vincent Chancy, French Horn, (“Visions”).

32 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

Fields of Moons ••• Chris Washburne and the Syotos Band, Jazzheads Fields of Moons, as the title suggests, is a very sweet, mellow album that will allow you to sit back and enjoy jazz on any occasion. Still, on pieces like “Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans” and “Evening Rites,” the tragedy of New Orleans is a painful reminder that we are all one people in life and death.

Listen close and you’ll more than likely be reminded of a loved one, a memory, an event or a moment in time when all was well in your world. Such is the power of music when it hits you, and on “Fields Of Dreams” (title track), “Long Time Coming” and “Obsession,” you will enjoy this album from a group of dedicated musicians. Performers include Chris Washburne (trombone, tuba), John Walsh (trumpet, flugelhorn), Ole Mathisen (sax, clarinet), Barry Olsen (piano), Leo Traversa (bass), Diego Lopez (drums), and Cristian Rivera (percussion).

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202.889.8900 American Express, MasterCard, Visa & Discover accepted

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Coin Flip ••• Nathan Eklund Group, OA2 Records All the music heard here is played with a sense of robust authority and enthusiasm from a fine group musicians like Nathan Eklund (trumpet, flugelhorn), Shawn Baltazar (drums), KellenHarrison (bass), Craig Yaremko (saxs), and Steve Myerson (Fender Rhodes). While there are no surprises on this album, some of pieces have a certain flair for subtle improvisation especially on “The Supernatural,” “Triple Shot Espresso,” “Happy’s Sadness,” and the title track, “Coin Flip.” The recording is spacious and full of radiance for a well-balanced album.

All CDs and DVDS reviewed in this article are heard through Bowers & Wilkens 802D Speakers and ASW 4000 subwoofer, and Rotel Preamp 1070, amplif ier 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. ●

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

Get Involved!

CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★ 33

EAST WASHINGTON LIFE

The Art of Giving Making A Difference with Your Generosity

by Ronda Bresnick Hauss, LCSW

I

t’s that time of year again when many of us are making our lists of holiday gifts to buy for family and friends. As you mull over your plans for giving, you might want to consider reading the book, “The Power of Giving: Creating Abundance in your Home, at Work and in your Community.” The authors, Asim Jamal and Harvey McKinn, write about the power of giving -- not simply the giving of material objects or money -- but also the giving that involves your time, your love, knowledge, leadership, skills, advice, hope, laughter or attention to others.

In our community, there are many people who are struggling. The unemployment rate in the District is higher than it has been in more than a decade and people in our community have also had to face pay cuts or shorter work hours. For those of us who are in a position to make a contribution to others, there are clear benefits to all for doing so.

those who volunteer benefit from their actions in measurable ways. Volunteering can enhance your immune system, reduce stress and strengthen your heart.

Giving can also bring to the giver a sense of pride in their contribution, and fulfillment from making a difference. It offers an experience of meaningfulness to one’s life. Mahatma Gandhi said, “To find yourself, lose yourself in the service of others”.

Finally, your contribution can make a positive, life-changing difference to others, sometimes in ways that you cannot predict. At times there are immediate benefits to giving and at times the benefits of your actions may not occur until many years in the future.

What ever your contribution -- your time, your enthusiasm, your money or your knowledge -- it matters.

To Whom Could You Give?

When you give with joy, selflessness and love, Jamal and McKinn say in their book, you benefit greatly. Giving promotes social connections; it helps us to understand others, and also reduces self-centeredness and isolation.

Giving to others is also good for our health. Studies have show that

Give to yourself. It is important to give compassion and love to yourself. To look after others, you have to look after yourself first. Offer yourself the same kindness you would others, nurture your health, your relationships and your skills.

Give to your family. Set aside time for your spouse and your children. Make a conscious effort to bring kindness and compassion to them. Give them your love and un-

34 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

The Benefits of Giving

conditional support.

Give to your neighbor. We all know someone next door or in our neighborhood that could use some help. Whether it’s giving someone a ride, helping them clean up the yard or offering them a listening ear -there are plenty of opportunities to give in our own back yard.

Give to your community. There are many local charities that contribute to our community and need our help. They are facing hard times because of the economic downturn.

Here are a few examples. For more choices, you can go to www.idealist. org and put in your zip code for a local non-profit in your neighborhood.

• The Fishing School: The Fishing School provides a safe haven, intervention and education for vulnerable children and youth in Wards 6 and 7 during afterschool hours. The programs and services are designed to strengthen academic achievement, deepen cultural and social values and develop leadership skills that will assist youth in developing into independent, productive and contributing members of society.

202-399-3618. www.fishingschool.org • Hill Hounds: Hill Hounds is a small, volunteer-run non-profit organization that works to enhance the welfare of dogs and their human companions in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, DC. 202-715-3879; www.hillhounds.com • Horton’s Kids, Inc.: Horton’s Kids is a non-profit that provides comprehensive services to the children of Ward 8. The programs improve the quality of their daily lives and nurture their desire and ability to succeed. This organization provides opportunities for Capitol Hill residents to tutor kids from Anacostia right on Capitol Hill. 202-544-5033. www.hortonskids.org.

• Washington Youth Garden, Friends of the National Arboretum: Using the garden cycle as a tool, the mission of the Washington Youth Garden at the

U.S. National Arboretum is to inspire children and families to engage in self-discovery, explore relationships with food and the natural world and contribute to the health and well being of their communities.

202-544-5398. www.fona.org/youthgarden.html • Family Health and Birth Center: The Family Health and Birth Center is a full scope birth center providing prenatal, birth, postnatal, gynecological and primary health care to underserved women and their families in NE Washington D.C. 202-398-5520. www.yourfhbc.org.

• Atlas Performing Arts Center: The Atlas Performing Arts Center presents innovative, thoughtprovoking performances by its Arts Partners and other artists, and provides arts education opportunities for DC’s Near Northeast community. 202-399-7993. www.atlasarts.org • Episcopal Senior Ministries: Provide services to low and moderate income seniors and their families of all faiths to help them maintain their independence and dignity.

202-414-6310. www.esm.org During this holiday season, remember that it is better to give than not to give. As Asim Jamal and Harvey McKinn say in their book, “Give with respect and humility. Give unconditionally. Give even when you think you can’t. There are other things to give besides money.” In your giving you have the opportunity to find meaning and fulfillment, while making a contribution to others. What better way could there be to celebrate the holidays?

Ronda Bresnick Hauss is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of the Quiet Waters Center for Trauma, Stress and Resilience, on Capitol Hill.

She uses an integrative & holistic approach to psychotherapy – addressing the connection between the mind, body and spirit through the use of traditional talk therapy, meditation, visualization, and creative, non-verbal techniques. She can be reached at 202-544-5050 and is on the web at http://www.quietwaterscenter.com. ●

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

Youth Hockey Classes at Fort Dupont Ice Arena

Photos courtesy of Fort Dupont Ice Arena

36 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

The Kids on Ice Hockey Club program is designed to take skaters, ages 5-18, from beginning hockey skills through league levels. Although this is an instructional hockey class, students are provided opportunities to participate in special events. Players are required to have basic skating skills before entering the class-forward and backward skating, stopping, ability to fall and get back up quickly. Saturdays, Dec. 4 and 11; Jan. 8 through Mar. 12; 8:00 AM-9:20 AM. $35 annual fee. 202-584-5007. fdia.org

THEARC Winter Praise Fest and Toy Drive On Saturday, Dec. 4 at 5:00 PM, there will be performances and guest appearances by Lashawna Moore, Michael Hunt, New Vision, What To Do With My Hands, Dennis Jones of “While It’s Day Drama” and couture fashions by Cantoire. Event will be hosted by Kleon, the comedian. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. Advance tickets are $10 for Adults, $5 for children (10 and under). At-the-door tickets are $12 for Adults, $7 for children. For more information, contact Dwayne Moore at 202-330-6038 or email HDEntertainment1@yahoo.com.

Family Kwanzaa Adventure at Anacostia Community Museum This is a great day for families to celebrate Kwanzaa by encouraging connections and building understanding and mutual respect. Join in this observance with Saleem and Ivy Hylton of Youth and Families in Crisis, who have been hosting Kwanzaa celebrations for 18 years. Experience an authentic Kwanzaa celebration through interactive drumming, singing, dancing, and skits, designed to explore the principles of Kwanzaa. The program closes with the “Circle of Hope and Healing,” an original Kwanzaa group activity designed to restore and renew the hopes and dreams of families for the New Year. Tuesday, Dec. 28, 10:30 AM. On Wednesday, Dec. 29, 10:30 AM, come for Zawadis for Kwanzaa. Following a discussion about Kwanzaa, join artist Camilla Younger and create zawadis (gifts) that include jewelry, a woven mat (Mkeka), and greeting cards. On Thursday, Dec. 30, 10:30 AM come for Kwanzaa: Nia (Purpose). Melvin Deal and the African Heritage Dancers and Drummers will conduct a Kwanzaa hands-on workshop that includes the making of tambor instruments, drumming, and dancing. The workshop features a special performance in celebration of the fifth Kwanzaa principle, Nia (Purpose). This is a special treat for seniors and families. All these events are free. 1901 Fort Place SE. 202-633-4820. anacostia.si.edu

Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Washington at THEARC This branch is committed to excellence in providing quality out-of-school-time programming for youth ages 5–18. There is a ceramic room, games room, gymnasium, Intel computer clubhouse, learning center, library and teen center. Open Monday thru Friday 3:30-9:00 PM and Saturdays for special programs only. Membership is $25 a year, Jan-Dec. 1901 Mississippi Ave. SE. 202-540-2300. bgcgw.org

Mail Letters to Santa at Macy’s There is a mailbox at every Macy’s to collect letCAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

37

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

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

ters to Santa. Bring your stamped letter, addressed to Santa at the North Pole, to any Macy’s and drop it in the special mailbox.

For each letter received, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make-a-Wish Foundation up to $1,000.000. wish.org

next school year’s rising 9th graders and a small number of seats will be offered to rising 10th graders. For more information on the school or the process, contact Principal Michael A. Johnson at 202-729-4360. mascarocenter.pitt.edu

Operation Christmas Miracle, Toy Drive

The Academy of Construction and Design

Drop off your gift wrapped toy donation at Garden District, 1740 14th St. NW through Dec. 3 for kids affiliated with the Central Union Mission in our community.

For more information, missiondc.org/ christmas.

The Academy of Construction and Design at Cardozo Senior High School is a specialized career and technical education program operated by the nonprofit DC Students Construction Trades Foundation in partnership with District of Columbia Public Schools. Academy students complete academic requirements for high school graduation while earning industry credentials and technical certifications. District high school students in grades 10 through 12 may apply for admission to the Academy of Construction and Design, which enrolls more than 100 students each year. The Academy of Construction and Design encourages District students to stay in school and graduate with skills they can use in work, college and future careers. With a 90% high school graduation rate among seniors enrolled in its academic support and technical programming, the Academy is putting District students on the path to employment, higher education and careers in architecture, construction, facilities management and electrical design.

202-340-5657. dcstudentsctf.org

Girls on the Run-DC Invites DC Community to 5K Run/Walk On Sunday, Dec. 12, 2:00 PM, at American University, 4400 Massachusetts Ave, NW, Girls on The Run of Washington, DC (GOTR-DC) welcomes the DC community to its fun-filled, family-friendly event. Everyone is invited - friends, families, neighbors -- boys, too! The run/walk is not a race, and will not provide official race times. Instead, a clock will provide finishers with estimated times. The 550 girls who make up 50 teams from across all 8 wards in D.C. will assemble at 1:00 PM for pre-race “get-psyched” activities, including a “crazy hair” station, face painting, poster making and more. Fee to run, $25. 202-258-7876. gotrdc.org

Newseum “Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Free Saturday Morning Children’s Claus” Family Day Performance at the National Theatre On Dec. 11, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM, Newseum is hosting a “Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus” Family Day complete with crafts, madrigal singers, games, a reading of the Sun’s famous editorial by a local celebrity and a visit from Santa bearing gifts for kids.

Any youth visitor who brings a toy to Family Day will get in for free. They hope to collect 250-500 toys. 888-639-7386. newseum.org

Allen A. Flood, M.D. 650 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., S.E., SUITE 420 WASHINGTON, D.C. 20003 TELEPHONE: (202) 547-9090 FAX: (202) 547-9092

Skin, Hair & Nails NARROW BAND UVB PHOTOTHERAPY • Safe effective reatment • Psoriasis, vitiligo, and several other conditiions • • • •

Hair Removal Leg and Face Veins Skin Rejuvenation Hair Restoration

• Hyperhydrosis • Hyperpigmentation • Non Surgical Face Lifts

BEAUTY ENHANCEMENT • Stretch Marks • Dark Spots • Puffy Eyes THINNING HAIR? Harmonix Hair Products

38 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

PACE High School Accepting Applications Phelps Architecture, Construction and Engineering (PACE) High School at 704 26th St. NE is a city-wide application high school and is currently accepting applications for the 2011-2012 school year. The deadline for receipt of admissions applications is March 18, 2011. Applications and brochures can be obtained from the school Monday-Friday 8:00 AM-6:00 PM. The school is accepting applications for the

On Dec. 11, 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM, “Christmas Dreams from The Nutcracker.”

Snowflakes and Sugar Plum Sweets are in the air as the Virginia Ballet Company and School present selections from their magical, glittering Nutcracker. Familiar music, lively dances, lovely costumes and charming characters from Tchaikovsky’s classic confection bring us elegant and amusing holiday cheer.

Performances are free and in the Helen Hayes Gallery at the National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave.NW. Shows are best appreciated by children four and older. Tickets are Required and are distributed without charge one half-hour prior to performance, on a first-come first-served basis. One ticket only to each person standing in line. Children must be accompanied by an adult who remains present for the entire performance.

202-783-3372. nationaltheatre.org

A Great Way For Children To Learn - Grades Pre k-12

The William E. Doar, Jr. Public Charter School for the Performing Arts (WEDJ PCS)

Children’s Chorus of Washington Presents “Holidays Through the Years” Children’s Chorus of Washington (CCW) will mark its 15th season with two joyous holiday concerts to be performed on Saturday, Dec. 18, and Sunday, Dec. 19, 4:00 PM at National City Christian Church, 5 Thomas Circle. Joined by the renowned Washington Symphonic Brass, “Holidays through the Years” will feature beloved favorites such as It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, a carol singalong, and the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling CCW’s office at 202-237-1005 or online at instantseats.com. $25 for adults and $10 for kids. childrenschorus.com

2011 Open Houses NE Campus: All at 1:30 pm Saturdays: Jan. 22, Feb. 12, Mar. 26, May 21, Jun. 4 Grades Prek 3 - 12 (accepting applications through 11th grade) 705 Edgewood Street, NE • Washington, DC 20017 (202) 269-4646 • (202) 269-4155 fax

NW Campus: All at 1: 30pm Saturdays: Feb. 5, Mar. 26, May 21 Grades Prek 3-8 Armed Forces Retirement Home 3700 N. Capitol St. NW • Washington, DC 20011 (202) 882-1980 • (202) 882-1936 (fax) Lottery forms are available on our website for both campuses and all grades

New Children’s Book Celebrates Traditional African Storytelling Recently published “African Moonlight Stories”

by Ayodapo Ayansiji Oyelana and Akinyemi Muyiwa Dahunsi offers a collection of anecdotes intended to invoke the African tradition of storytelling on moonlit nights. According to Oyelana and Dahunsi, storytelling is one of the intrinsic components of many African cultures. The pair contends that folktales have been shared for countless generations not only for fun and amusement, but also to educate and impart values and morals. iyailu.com

www.wedjschool.us Public Lottery - Multi purpose room 705 Edgewood Street, NE

April 8, 2010 at 5pm Attendance at lottery does not affect outcome Enrollment Info:

(202) 269-4646 • wedjenrollment@wedjschool.us

WEDJ PCS CFC # 76494 United Way # 9485 Friend WEDJ PCS on Facebook and Follow WEDJ PCS on Twitter!

Free Visual Arts Classes at CHAW On Saturday, Dec. 18, CHAW presents “Paintng with Yarn” for caregivers and children (no dropoffs please). Students of all ages will learn to make a painting by placing strips of colored yarn next to each other to fill in the picture. Two sittings at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. in CHAW’s Gallery. Free but limited space available. Please call the office at 202547-6839 to reserve your spot. For a complete list of workshops, classes or registration information, please visit CHAW’s website at chaw.org. 545 7th St. SE.

National Gallery of Art Kid’s Movie “Bagpuss: The Most Magical, Saggy, Old Cloth Cat” On Dec. 4, 10:30 AM and Dec. 5, 11:30 a.m. meet Bagpuss, a sleepy and much loved pink-andwhite striped cat, whose many friends sing songs and share tales with him between naps. Bagpuss is of the most popular children’s television programs ever broadcast in the United Kingdom, though only 13 episodes were produced. These short tales of discovery, friendship, and learning introduce the very young to concepts of cooperation, communication, trust, and the importance of imaginative play. Approximately 50 minutes. National Gallery of Art, East Building Concourse Auditorium. For ages 4 and up. nga.gov ● CAPITALCOMMUNITYNEWS.COM ★

39

KIDS & FAMILY

Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc.© 2041 Martin Luther King Jr., Ave., SE, Suite 304 Washington, DC 20020 202.889.1425 (Office) www.fsfsc.org (cholland@fsfsc.org) (tfagbemi@fsfsc.org)

One Economy Headquarters 1220 19th Street NW Suite 610 Washington, DC 20036 (202) 393-0051 www.one-economy.com

Digital Connectors in Southeast DC The Emergence of Techno Talent article and photos by Karen Jones

I

had to ask but one question to know that eighteen year-old Elizabeth Renee Perry was not your average student. Whether attending Southeast, DC’s Ballou Sr., High School or the Digital Connectors’ program three times a week after school, Elizabeth Perry is planning for a successful future in the vast field of technology. A Ward 8 resident for the past six years, Elizabeth told me that attending the Digital Connectors program was just what she needed. She explained that aside from pursuing a college education in music technology, she planned to use her newfound technology skills to teach seniors in her Congress Heights neighborhood how to use computers and especially the internet.

Digital Connectors is a free, major technology program east of the river, providing computer literacy opportunities for youth and young adults between the ages of 14 to 21.

The program is sponsored by One Economy, a global technology program and the Far Southeast Family Strengthening Collaborative, Inc., (FSFSC) a Ward 8 grassroots, social and human services non-profit organization. Their idea is to support and educate students and residents of Ward 8 by providing them learning and community service opportunities via the use of technology. This is a rigorous twenty-five week course.

Currently there are twenty-two participants receiving instruction on media education, digital arts, office programming, web design and other technologically-based programs.

Elizabeth came highly recommended by her previous FSFSC Case Manager, Temitope Fagbemi, who also facilitates the curriculumbased program along with FSFSC’s Community Engagement Liaison, Charles Holland. The team described Elizabeth as a great participant who

40 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

TOP LEFT: Elizabeth R. Perry (far right) gearing up for class.

ABOVE: Website for Digital Connector members.

is always on task, actively engages, comes early and works hard.

With a calm and gentle demeanor, Elizabeth seemed assured of the benefits of the Digital Connectors program, expressing, “It’s an interesting program, it’s something to learn since we didn’t even know how the internet got started, we just knew how to get on it.” Elizabeth was very clear that music is her greatest motivator. She views music and technology combined as her gateway to enabling others in the helping profession.

Currently Elizabeth is preparing for the application process to attend Fay-

etteville State in North Carolina. She acknowledges that her family support is important as she and her family relocated to Ward 8 six years ago due to the unexpected illness of her mom.

As a student, Elizabeth thinks that the program is a positive way to impact the Ward 8 community and she would really like for her peers to “take heed--a lot of times we hear about programs going on but don’t take heed to use the programs.” She said that the programs requires a lot of time and effort, but she sees the program as good fit for her as a high school student. Elizabeth is hopeful

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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.

Elizabeth Perry (center) receiving instruction from Temitope Fagbemi, Facilitator (left) and Charles Holland, Facilitator (right).

Digital Connector members engaging and participating.

that this program will provide her with a solid technology background with which to enter college. She thinks that there should be programs like Digital Connectors in every ward of the city since there are so many others that need help and education in the field of technology.

Other benefits and opportunities include community service hours, community outings, Digi-Gear, Digi-Cash, mobile devices and a stipend. The program is the brainchild of COMCAST, and is also sponsored by AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint. This program is the result of the growth and development of COMCAST which connected Cricket, One Economy and FSFSC a year ago. The program conducted outreach to secure students including recruitment from Ward 8 schools, Advocates for Justice, Partnership for Community-Based Services and the Court Social Services program Balance for Restorative Justice (BARJ). The program has been underway since October and will end the first week of June. The students all seem enthusiastic and willing to work with the facilitators for the benefit of acquiring techno talent!

Neighborhood

42 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

BR

FEE SIMPLE ANACOSTIA 1986 RETTA GILLIAM CT SE 1994 RETTA GILLIAM CT SE 2205 RETTA GILLIAM CT SE 2003 NAYLOR RD SE 1408 T ST SE 1624 U ST SE 1344 VALLEY PL SE 2006 14TH ST SE 1414 T ST SE

$380,000 $355,000 $350,000 $247,500 $209,900 $200,000 $195,000 $180,000 $51,000

3 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3

$139,000

2

$197,500

2

$268,000 $265,000 $252,000 $174,900 $87,500 $81,500 $72,000 $70,000 $42,000

4 4 4 3 3 3 3 2 0

BARRY FARMS 1461 MORRIS RD SE

CHILLUM 119 QUACKENBOS ST NW

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. ●

Price

107 50TH ST NE 5338 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 4013 BLAINE ST NE 4519 EADS PL NE 426 60TH ST NE 116 SYCAMORE RD NE 3978 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 712 56TH PL NE 836 51ST ST NE 255 57TH ST NE 5112 BROOKS ST NE 5347 AMES ST NE 5401 EAST CAPITOL ST SE 4001 AMES ST NE 4126 EAST CAPITOL ST NE 4616 HUNT PL NE 811 50TH PL NE 1024 47TH ST NE 4620 LEE ST NE 29 53RD ST SE

$230,000 $230,000 $220,500 $190,000 $189,900 $188,600 $185,000 $180,000 $150,000 $125,000 $105,000 $100,000 $88,000 $81,050 $76,000 $75,000 $59,997 $50,000 $50,000 $45,000

2 3 3 2 3 3 3 3 2 6 6 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2

$275,000 $246,000 $117,500 $98,000 $55,000

3 3 3 3 2

$64,900 $43,000

4 3

FORT DUPONT PARK

CONGRESS HEIGHTS 932 BELLEVUE ST SE 106 XENIA ST SE 113 MISSISSIPPI AVE SE 127 DARRINGTON ST SW 724 CHESAPEAKE ST SE 1105 ALABAMA AVE SE 491 VALLEY AVE SE 3507 MARTIN LUTHER KING JR AVE SE 105 GALVESTON PL SW

DEANWOOD

1223 45TH PL SE 1515 FORT DAVIS PL SE 1630 40TH ST SE 4336 BARKER ST SE 1116 44TH PL SE

MARSHALL HEIGHTS 5345 D ST SE 5213 B ST SE

5120 C ST SE

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$44,900 $35,000

1 1

$64,000

2

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2

$50,000 $44,000

2 1

$75,000

2

RANDLE HEIGHTS 3418 21ST ST SE 1938 VALLEY TER SE 1433 ALABAMA AVE SE 2332 NAYLOR RD SE

CONDO CONGRESS HEIGHTS 2915 8TH ST SE #201 3425 5TH ST SE #24

DEANWOOD 940 EASTERN AVE NE #5

FORT DUPONT PARK 3935 S ST SE #101

HILL CREST 3939 PENNSYLVANIA AVE SE #101 2042 FORT DAVIS ST SE #301

RANDLE HEIGHTS 2844 HARTFORD ST SE #203 ●

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

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THE NOSE

by Anonymous

S

ecreted away, high above the city in the mountains of Hillcrest lies the lair of the newly minted mayor, Vince “Undertaker’ Gray. Behind a black, wrought-iron fence, the scene is quiet, blinds closed, lights dimmed.

It is well past midnight. The Undertaker sits at his kitchen table. Budget reports litter the room; massive stacks of documents teeter precariously, threatening to bury the lonely occupant.

In the pages of the morning’s Examiner, the budget gap, according to prognostications of Natwar “I Missed a Zero” Gandhi, has topped $187 million. Yet a red magic marker rests nearby, neglected.

The Undertaker buries his head in his hands. In deep despair, he fails to notice the sound of four padded feet on the tiled floor. Suddenly he is startled by the feeling of soft fur against his ankles.

“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger

46 ★ EAST OF THE RIVER MAGAZINE

| DECEMBER 2010

leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering,” a gravelly, feminine voice purrs up from the floor.

Samurai The Cat, the Undertaker’s true political mentor, jumps effortlessly into his lap and proceeds to lick her elegant tabby-colored paws.

Samurai’s deep, emerald eyes contemplate the sea of papers threatening to submerge them both.

“Named must your fear be before banish it you can,” the cat states.

“What should I do, Samurai? What should I cut first?”

“Ready are you to cut the budget?

What know you of ready? For eight hundred (cat) years have I trained politicians. My own counsel will I keep on who is to be trained. A politician must have the deepest commitment, the most serious mind. This one a long time have I watched. All his life has he looked away... to the future, to the White Sox. Never his mind on where he was. Hmm? What he was doing. Hmph. Softball. Heh. Hand dancing. Heh. A politician craves not these things. You are feckless.”

“Help you I can, yes.” Samurai pauses to scratch her ear with a back leg while staring dubiously at her protégé.

“What about delaying the street car program?” the Undertaker queries.

“Unleash you will Tommy “The Bicyclist” Wells and his hoards of slavering New Urbanists. On blogs and listservs will they rend and slay you. Under the bus, go you will.”

“Limit welfare to five years?”

“Marion “I Forgot My Checkbook” Barry and Yvette “Ms. Congeniality” Alexander, duck you could behind. David “The Bean Counter” Catania and Jack “Scrooge” Evans applaud they will.”

“Bulldoze the dog parks?”

“Good idea it is not. Show up and pee on our fence outraged canines would. Terrible smell it will be.”

“Sell the Fentymobile?”

“Finally, one good idea have you! Up the steep hill to our lair, it goes not.”

“Samurai, the budget gap is simply too wide. Closing it would take an Act of Congress. It is an impossible task.”

Samurai fixes her student with a basilisk-like stare.

“Cut or cut not...there is no ‘try.’” ●

WACIF

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

FREE Small Business Seminars and Technical Assistance Greening Your Business Thursday, December 9 6:30-8:30pm

Small Business Financing Saturday, December 11 11:30am-1:30pm

3939 Benning Rd. NE Washington, DC 20019

961 H St. NE Washington, DC 20002

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, OfďŹ ce 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.