The Capital News DC April 2024

Business is Booming at Sycamore & Oak

By: Kristal Knight

Sycamore & Oak is the outdoor eatery in newly developed St. Elizabeth’s East. The venue sits a few feet away from the Congress Heights Metro station making it easily accessible to patrons near and far. Several new businesses have also opened their doors making commercial availability a reality for residents nearby.

Executive Director of St. Elizabeth’s East Redevelopment, Latrena Owens, said she is excited about the small businesses at the site. “We just opened new kitchen trailers and we are inviting everyone to come and explore the cuisine from our local restaurateurs.”

Monumental Agreement

Wizards and Capitals to Stay at Capital One Arena Until 2050

By: Tearea Turner

In a significant development for Washington D.C.’s sports landscape, Monumental Sports & Entertainment and the D.C. government have reached an agreement to keep the NBA’s Wizards and the NHL’s Capitals at the Capital One Arena, nestled in the heart of Chinatown, through the year 2050. This announcement comes on the heels of Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson’s revelation that plans to relocate the teams to Potomac Yard were off the table.

Reported by Jonathan O’Connell, Teo Armus, Gregory S. Schneider, and Michael Brice-Saddler of The Washington Post, the deal, still

[Pictured: Retail Village at Sycamore and Oak credit Dror Baldinger FAIA]

[Pictured: D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and Monumental Sports CEO and Wizards owner Ted Leonis]

The UnTold Stories

Monthly Contributors:

Donald Isaac

Phinis Jones

Kristal Knight

Veda Rasheed

Tearea T. Turner

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Artist of the Month

By: Tearea Turner

Shawn Lindsay, a dynamic artist from Southeast DC, has been captivated by art since childhood, leading to a rich, progressive arts education and a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Cincinnati. Specializing in painting, Shawn also possesses advanced skills in drawing and printmaking, showcasing his diverse talent across various platforms.

His work has been featured in numerous exhibitions, including a notable senior exhibition at the Art Academy of Cincinnati in April 2010 and a memorable guerrilla-style solo exhibition, “Stamp,” in June 2010. Other highlights include participating in group exhibitions in Santa Fe, New Mexico, in July 2011, and the “ART! BURGERS! BEER!” event in New York in June 2013. Shawn’s solo exhibition “GREYSCALE” at the Congress Heights Arts & Culture Center in August 2015 and the “THEORY” group exhibition at Pyramid Atlantic in March 2016 further establish his presence in the art community.

Beyond his art, Shawn has contributed to the creative industry as a Creative Enabler at Art Jamz since March 2014, where he assists customers, leads painting classes, and manages studio upkeep.

Shawn’s latest work features him in the upcoming event, “Painta Day,” on April 13th, 2024, at the Congress Heights Arts & Culture Center, located at 3200 Martin Luther King Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20032.

Shawn Lindsay’s artistic journey is a testament to his passion for art and his commitment to enriching the cultural experience of his community through his work and involvement in arts education.

This promises to be an immersive experience into his artistic world. For those unable to attend on April 13, 2024, the exhibition will remain accessible throughout the month, with walk-in’s welcome from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm. For personalized experiences, private tours can be scheduled (HERE)

[Pictured: Artist of the month: Shawn Lindsay]

By: Tearea Turner

Breadcoin: Fostering Community and Dignity in DC’s Dining Scene

In the bustling streets of Washington DC, Breadcoin stands as a testament to the power of community and compassion. Launched in 2016, this innovative initiative is changing the way we approach food insecurity, bringing dignity and inclusivity to the forefront of the conversation. With its unique model, Breadcoin is not just feeding the hungry; it’s creating a space where everyone belongs, breaking down barriers one meal at a time.

HOW BREADCOIN WORKS

Breadcoin is a tangible symbol of care, a physical coin that carries a value of $2.50, redeemable at a growing network of participating vendors across DC. This system ensures inclusivity, allowing anyone to partake in the dignity of choice, whether they’re selecting a meal at Mama’s Pizza Kitchen or enjoying a treat at Rita’s on MLK. Individuals and organizations purchase Breadcoins for personal use, to host mobile food events, or to distribute to those in need, ensuring a wide-reaching impact.

REDEEMING BREADCOIN

Each month, Breadcoin representatives visit participating vendors to redeem the coins. They tally the Breadcoins, record the transaction electronically, and ensure each coin is valued at $2.50 through a direct deposit to the vendor’s account via Bill.com. This seamless process underscores Breadcoin’s commitment to supporting local businesses while addressing food insecurity.

COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Breadcoin’s impact is magnified through mobile food events and beautifully set community tables. These events, often in collaboration with local organizations like Children’s National Hospital and DC Dream Center, offer a festival-like atmosphere, inviting everyone to the table with no distinction. Food trucks and caterers distribute meals paid for with Breadcoins, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

EXPANDING REACH

From its origins in the Union Station neighborhood, Breadcoin now serves seven of eight wards in DC, with notable participation from venues in Southeast DC like Open Crumb and MLK Deli. The initiative’s growth reflects a citywide embrace of its mission to destigmatize hunger and ensure everyone has a place at the table.

A UNIFYING COIN

The beauty of Breadcoin lies in its universal acceptance across diverse neighborhoods, from Northwest to Southeast DC. This unity is a powerful statement against the divides of hunger and socioeconomic status, embodying the true spirit of community support.

GET INVOLVED

Breadcoin’s journey is a community effort, thriving on the support of volunteers, donors, and local businesses. By setting tables in parks, hosting meals, or simply spreading the word, everyone has a role to play in this movement. To become part of the Breadcoin story and help expand its reach, visit GET INVOLVED

As Breadcoin continues to weave its narrative of compassion and community across DC, it stands as a light of hope, proving that when we come together, we can create a world where everyone has a seat at the table.

“Monumental Agreement” continued from pg. 1

pending city council approval, seems poised for ratification. The arrangement stipulates a $515 million investment from the D.C. government over three years aimed at modernizing the Capital One Arena and bolstering public safety measures, including an increase in police presence.

Additionally, the agreement grants Monumental Sports & Entertainment the management reins of the Entertainment and Sports Arena, currently the home turf for the WNBA’s Washington Mystics, and opens the possibility for a new practice facility for the Wizards.

This turnaround can be attributed, in part, to Virginia State Senator L. Louise Lucas’s decisive stand. As Chairwoman of the State Senate’s Finance and Appropriations Committee, Lucas declined to advance stadium authority bills, effectively quashing the Virginia relocation project. Depending on one’s perspective, Lucas’s action has painted her as either the savior of D.C. sports or the antagonist in Virginia’s bid to house the teams.

Despite the Virginia proposal falling through, dialogues between Monumental Sports and the D.C. government persisted, aiming to secure a vital economic asset for Chinatown. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin voiced his disappointment over the failed deal, citing “personal and political agendas” as the culprits in a Washington Post piece.

While the Capitals and Wizards have sidestepped a relocation drama, the Washington Mystics face their challenges, needing a venue capable of accommodating more than the 4,200 spectators their current arena holds.

This unfolding saga, laden with political intrigue and last-minute negotiations, underscores the complex interplay between sports franchises and urban planning. As more details emerge, the focus will remain on how these developments impact the fans, the teams, and the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood.

Written by Logan McCrae, Daryl Davis& Makayla Napper

The sun is out

shining, the sun is out beaming on me. I got a smile on my face, don’t look at me crazy.

I shine bright like a diamond pretty like a daisy. We’re starting over again, the past is in the past

I was a 1 and now I’m a 10. So fresh, so clean Water Figi now it’s clear for you and me. As the Spring season rises you won’t see me left behind I will follow up and awaken and become a new sunrise For my past will be gone as beautiful as the cherry blossoms fall

My beauty will cover my past and create my a new path I will move along as the spring brings a new dawn. Summer sun beaming my playlist stuck on repeat Feeling like a bird, free is the word I’m achieving.

Cherry blossoms blooming, looking like lucky charms i see

Ferry wheels, ice cream and leprechaun horror movies. April rain brings May flowers, takes away the pain. Rain rain go away, let the sun shine again Today is a new day!

Women’s HistoryMonth

Madam C.J. Walker and Barbara Armwood

By Logan McCrae, Junior Richard Wright Public Charter Schools

Madam C.J. Walker was an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and activist who rose from poverty in the South to become one of the wealthiest African American women of her time. She was originally born as Sarah Breedlove on December 23, 1867, in Delta, Louisiana, one of six children of Owen and Minerva Anderson Breedlove, former slaves turned sharecroppers after the Civil War. Orphaned at seven, Walker mostly lived with her older sister Louvenia, and both worked in cotton fields.

While Walker was seeking a way out of poverty, in 1889, she moved to St. Louis, Missouri, where her four brothers were barbers. She worked as a laundress and cook. Later, she joined the African Methodist Episcopal Church, where she met many black men and women whose education and success inspired her. In 1894, she married John Davis, but the couple later divorced because of troubles in their marriage, at a moment when she was struggling, dealing with hair loss, and experiencing years of physical labor.

In 1904, she began using African American businesswoman Annie Turbo Malone’s “The Great Wonderful Hair Grower,” she joined Malone’s team of black women sales agents. One year later, Walker moved to Denver, Colorado, where she married ad-man Charles Joseph Walker, renamed herself “Madam C.J. Walker,” and, with $1.25, launched her line of hair products and straighteners for African American women, “Madam Walker’s Wonderful Hair Grower.”

in Harlem, Chicago, Pittsburgh, and St. Louis.

As her wealth increased, so did her philanthropic and political outreach. Walker contributed to the YMCA, covered tuition for six African American students at Tuskegee Institute, and became active in the anti-lynching movement, donating $5,000 to the NAACP’s efforts. Just before dying of kidney failure, Walker revised her will, bequeathing twothirds of future net profits to charity, as well as thousands of dollars to various individuals and schools.

By Jamari Tyree, Junior, Richard Wright Public Charter Schools

Barbra Armwood who was born on May 11, 1947, in Washington DC, attended River Terrace Elementary School, Carter G Woodson Junior High School, and Eastern High School.

Barbra worked as a crossing guard for almost three decades, guaranteeing children’s safety but also leaving a mark on the community with her care and dedication. Reflecting on her path, she remembers her time managing the Ridge Road Summer Youth Program and her involvement at the JC Nalle computer program.

After Walker and her new husband divorced in 1910, she relocated to Indianapolis and built a factory for her Walker Manufacturing Company. She eventually opened training pro grams in the “Walker System” for her national network of licensed sales agents who earned healthy commissions. Ultimately, Walker em ployed 40,000 African American women and men in the US, Central America, and the Ca ribbean. She also founded the National Ne gro Cosmetics Manufacturers Association in 1917. Walker’s business grew rapidly, with sales exceeding $500,000 in the final year of her life. Her total worth topped 1 million dol lars, including a mansion in Irvington, New York, dubbed “Villa Lewaro,” and properties

Family is the foundation of Barbra’s life, and it has been instilled in her since she was very young and increased as a mother of 7 children. Her unshakeable faith has been a guiding light, defining her path and anchoring her through life’s ups and downs. Barbra was a witness to history when she stood on the National Mall and saw Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. deliver his historic address, an experience she will never forget.

Her childhood was marked by the reality of segregation and prejudice, a legacy she bears with dignity and determination. Barbra recalls a time when communities were divided, schools were segregated, and opportunities were limited, reflecting a generation’s hardships and successes. “Your neighbors could correct you,” she stated, highlighting a community bound by care and accountability.

Barbra’s childhood memories include dances, May Day celebrations, and the Safety Patrol Program, where she learned principles of service and responsibility. Her neighborhood, which was once an atmosphere of safety and unity, maintains a unique place in her heart as a reminder of an earlier time that she cherishes. Embracing the “old school way of life,” Barbra finds peace in simplicity and connection, enjoying a life spent outdoors and with loved ones.

There are traces of a past time when community, family, and faith served as the cornerstones of life in Barbra’s story. Let’s recognize the history of women like Barbra Armwood, whose life demonstrates the simplicity, courage, and resilience of those who paved the way for later generations, as we commemorate Women’s History Month.

Business at Sycamore and Oak continued from pg.1 WeFitDC is a multifaceted wellness hotspot at Sycamore & Oak. They have an emphasis on whole body health and community wellness. They have a space where residents can activate their wellness goals and feel empowered along the way. The gym has a team of expert coaches and motivators to engage and empower clients.

Soufside Creative is another store that’s located at the site and is owned and operated by Keyonna Jones. Keyonna is the executive director of Congress Heights Arts and Culture Center and opened the store to give other black entrepreneurs a place to sell their handmade goods. You can purchase anything from candles to art to clothing inside the location at Sycamore & Oak.

Black Bella Spa is a women-owned wellness sanctuary that is run by massage/lymphedema therapist and esthetician Josei Harris. The spa helps community members achieve health and wellness goals through a combination of western technology and traditional eastern techniques, including massage therapy, lymphatic drainage, and detox and contouring treatments.

[Pictured: Top WeFitDC @ Sycamore and Oak event]

Bottom: Joe Houston Jr. Founder/President]

[Pictured: SoufSide Creative @ Sycamore and Oak] Bottom: Keyonna Jones Owner and Operator]

[Pictured: Top Black Bella Spa @ Sycamore & Oak] Bottom: Josei Harris Founder and Operator]

Bowser To Hold Parents Accountable for Absent Students

By: Kristal Knight

In early April Mayor Muriel E. Bowser has said she intends to offer a proposal that would hold parents accountable for their children’s chronic absenteeism. She said her plan would not include jail time for parents, but rather ways to better address kids who are late and absent too much.

Last November the Office of the State Superintendent for Education (OSSE) released a report that showed 60% of high school students in the District were chronically absent during the 2022-2023 school year. Their characterization meant that a student was absent either part of the day or all day at least ten percent. These numbers are higher than the absentee rates pre Covid and have steadily risen, but are slightly down from the immediate years that followed the Covid school year. According to the report the numbers were as high as 48% during the 2021-2022 school year.

Truancy is also a problem in addition to absenteeism. Pre-pandemic the number of chronically truant students for the 20182019 school year was 30% and in 2022-2-23 that number rose to 37%. DC Public Schools Chancellor Lewis Ferebee said he expects the truant and absentee numbers to drop for the current school year and hopes the mayor’s proposal will help address some of the challenges.

Bowser said, “In our system right now, if they make a referral to [the Child and Family Services Agency] or to the courts or to the [Office of Attorney General], nothing happens. So they have then entered into an antagonistic relationship with the family to no good end. So we have to tighten up that system.” She further said she will work with OSSE and the Chancellor and other involved agencies to determine the best solution to put forward that will help.

[Pictured: Top DC Office of the State Superintendent for Education 2022-2023 Attendance Report Figure 5

Bottom: DC Mayor Muriel Bowser and DC Public Schools Chancellor Lewis Ferebee crdit DCPSStrong.com]

Child Vaccinations continued from pg. 8

Two clothing stores are also located at the site: Chris Pyrate and Love More. Love More is headed by Jovan Davis (aka Von) and is inspired by Von’s work as a violence interrupter in the Washington Highlands neighborhood. He sells hoodies, jackets, tee’s and more!

Chris Pyrate is an art-focused streetwear brand created by the D.C.-born visual artist. The brand’s loyal following — which includes countless sports icons and celebrities — is proof that the artist’s signature illustrated patterns and imagery translate beautifully into covetable fashion.

The business incubation is exactly what Owens stated she wanted to see at St. Elizabeth’s East. “This campus is continuously growing and we can only do it with small businesses like the shops at Sycamore & Oak.” She said she hopes people from across the city will stop by to visit and patronize. The site also hosts a lineup of monthly events that visitors can attend while they shop.

[Pictured: Top Love More Store @ Sycamore & Oak]

Bottom: Jovan Davis Founder and Operator via IG]

[Pictured: Chris Pyrate - Artist, Owner& Operator Instagram]

ARIES

(March 21 to April 19)

Affirmation:“I am exactly where I am meant to be right now.” It’s your birthday season! The month begins, with as much drama as it does excitement. While the retrograde could mix signals and make it difficult to get your point across effectively, expect a boost in your charm making it easy to win people’s affection. Brace yourself for intensity during the second week of the month, pushing you to overcome your weaknesses and embrace your bravery. New beginnings are emerging, but you’ll have to fight for your right to pursue them.

TAURUS

(April 20 to May 20)

Affirmation:“IambraveenoughtolosemyselfsoIcanfindmyself.”

Taurus horoscope for April 2024 is off to an introspective start. But rest while you can, because once your birthday season rolls around, it’s time for celebrations! Reflect on your values and explore what’s really meaningful to you. The solar eclipse on April 8 calls for even more self-examination and soul searching, so carve out some alone time where you can process your feelings.

GEMINI

(May 21 to June 20)

Affirmation:“The future I want is the future that was always promised to me.”

Your social life is packed with action this month to keep you on your toes but make sure you pencil in some peaceful time for solitude, too! Beware of drama in your friend group and stay open-minded when it comes to working with others. The solar eclipse on April 8 swoops in to help you push past limitations when it comes to envisioning your ideal future and the ways in which you can work with others. Sit with whatever comes up and let it simmer.

CANCER

(June 21 to July 22)

Affirmation:“Every struggle takes me closer to achieving my dreams.”

Activate boss mode, because your career is popping off, pushing you to step up to the plate. Be wary about starting new brand work projects or making any big professional decisions. It’s best to wait things out and revisit retrograde ideas with fresh eyes at the end of the month! It’s time to own your authority and embrace your leadership skills in a big way. Your community could be growing and shifting in a special and unexpected way right now, so keep an open mind and heart!

April Horoscopes

Source: https://stylecaster.com/

LEO

(July 23 to August 22)

Affirmation:“Iamalwaysonthebrinkofan amazingadventure.” you an opportunity to rethink your current worldview and explore higher-minded interests that may have sparked your fancy in the past. Take a leap of faith, more clarity could come posteclipse. Opportunities could come flying out of left field around this time, and lucky connections could emerge from places you never expected. Surprise blessings abound!

VIRGO

(August 23 to September 22)

Affirmation:“I embrace the death of my old self for my rebirth.” Reevaluate your personal boundaries and sort through all the under surface complexities of your most complicated entanglements. You’ll have no choice but to face the skeletons in your closet, but trust that doing so will help you break free of emotional shackles and embrace a greater sense of independence. Clarity comes to help you find empowerment amidst the cosmic chaos. Speak your truth!

LIBRA

(September 23 to October 22)

Affirmation:“I am loved and cherished by those who respect my boundaries.”

Relationships are at the forefront this month, but calls for balance too. You may be revisiting past issues or disagreements with a partner during this first stretch so be extra conscious about how you communicate. Drop the people-pleasing and start being shamelessly real about what you want and need in love.

SCORPIO

(October 23 to November 21)

Affirmation:“I always do my best work and I am rewarded .” Buckle up, your April blends equal parts business and pleasure. Some sudden changes of heart or shifts in your relationship dynamics could rock your world, so keep an open mind and try to trust the process. Remember, change can be exciting—and whatever surprises are in store will ultimately make you feel more empowered.

SAGITTARIUS

(November 22 to December 21)

Affirmation:“My imagination is an endless ocean and I am surfing itscurrents.”

This month promises passion, excitement, and plenty of shifts. it’s time to stop playing small or catering to other people. Live your truth and express your visions to the world! You may even get re-inspired to pick up an old passion project during the week following the eclipse. You’re changing the way you do things, Trust the process!

CAPRICORN

(December 22 to January 19)

Affirmation:“My home protects me, honors me, and nurtures me every day.”

Home is where the heart is, and with all the chaos this month, your horoscope wants you to find places where your heart can rest. Focus on clearing conflicts with the people closest to you and freeing yourself of lingering emotional baggage. Choose your words wisely and move forward with your plans carefully, because right now, your actions have lasting power. Real friends support your joy no matter what!

AQUARIUS

(January 20 to February 18)

Affirmation:“I express myself because bottling things up does harm to me.”

You’re never afraid to be yourself, April 2024 will have you speaking your truth in powerful new ways. Be extra aware of choosing your words intentionally, as it’ll be easy to misunderstand things or get misconstrued by others. It’s time to work to overcome your mental blocks so you can start expressing your ideas loudly and proudly. You’re growing in so many ways, so find your confidence and let it shine.

PISCES

(February 19 to March 20)

Affirmation:“I honor my self-worth and I do not compromise my values to fit in..”

You’re exploring all sorts of thrilling and creative new ideas, but you’ll have to focus on some practical matters, too, as there’s loads of activity hitting your finance sector. Be thoughtful about how you spend your money this month, as it’ll be easy to make mistakes when it comes to number crunching or conceptualizing new investments. Ready or not, it’s time to work through your hang-ups and start leveling up. Expect to be struck with an exciting flow of brilliant new ideas or have some unusually titillating conversations. Whatever comes up, no matter how surprising, you can trust that it could lead to something lucrative and enjoyable. Put this creativity to good use.

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