Upcoming Ward 5 Council Candidate Forums

Here are three that I know of, in chronological order:

What: Coalition for Voter Empowerment (COVE) is hosting a Ward 5 "Meet the Candidates" Forum.

When: Wednesday, August 30th, 2006, 6:30-9:30pm

Where: Mount Sinai Baptist Church, 1646 Third Street, NW (Third and Q Streets)

About: COVE is a collaboration of civic associations that represent citizens on the southwestern end of Ward 5 - i.e., the Bates Area, Bloomingdale, Edgewood, and Hanover Area Civic Associations, respectively.

From 6:30 until 7:00pm, there will be an opportunity for the candidates to meet residents of these communities in an informal social gathering at the church. The forum will take place between 7:00 and 9:00pm and, again, between 9:00 and 9:30pm, candidates will have the opportunity to chat with residents after the formal part of the program.

:: :: ::

What: Premier Community Development Corporation is presenting a Ward 5 Council Candidates Forum on the issue of affordable housing.

When: Thursday, August 31st, 2006 at 6:30pm

Where: Greater Mt. Calvary Family Life Center, 605 Rhode Island Avenue, NE

Contact: For more information, call Hazel Thomas at 202.491.9245 or Stephanie Rones at 202.832.3448

:: :: ::

What: Ward 5 Council Candidates Forum

When: Wednesday, September 6th, 2006 at 7pm

Where: North Michigan Park Recreation Center, 1333 Emerson Street, NE

About: Candidates will be give two-minute opening and closing statements; question will come from the audience.

Brookland Festival Committee Meeting - Wednesday, August 30th

A message from Heather Phipps, Brookland Festival Committee Chair:

The Brookland CDC and I would like to invite all neighbors in the greater Brookland area to attend the next Festival Committee meeting at 7:00 pm this Wednesday, August 30th, at the Brookland Visitors Center, 3420 9th Street NE.

The Brookland Festival and Parade will be taking place on Saturday, October 7th along 12th Street from Monroe to Otis and we could really use a group of volunteers to help organize and plan the event. So if you are interested in making the Brookland Festival a fantastic event this year, please join us this Wednesday evening.

We could really use volunteers to help with the following event activities:

• Contacting vendors, businesses, non-profits, community organizations, government agencies, schools, etc. to participate in the festival


• Organizing the parade


• Organizing childrens activities


• Logistics; set up and break down of event


• Developing banners and posters

Thanks so much and hope to meet you soon,
Heather Phipps
Brookland Festival Committee Chair
and Your Neighbor on 15th!

Because Same-Sex Marriage Doesn't Start with "E"

I can only guess how much The Washington Times despises the other Democratic candidates if it's willing to devote 779 words to the big O. Nearly two weeks after casting judgment on the morality of his opponents, Orange now says "...one of the key differences between himself and other candidates is that he is the only one who recognizes that the city's economic development has occurred according to a 40-point plan called 'The Economic Resurgence of Washington, D.C.' and developed by the city council in 1998." It gets a bit warmer and fuzzier in the following paragraph, but all I really want to know at this point is if "bring[ing] in the citizens" means just the straight ones?

Washington Post Endorses Thomas for Ward 5

From today's WaPo editorials:

Ward 5 has an especially attractive field of candidates. Three stand out as able potential successors to Mr. Orange: Frank Wilds, a businessman and Ward 5 Democratic Party vice chairman; Bruce Marshall, an attorney and former government administrator; and Harry "Tommy" Thomas Jr., a community leader and director of a youth mentoring and learning program. Four years ago, when he captured 40 percent of the vote against Mr. Orange, we said that "Mr. Thomas is close to the Ward 5 community and makes a strong impression on those voters he seeks to win over" but that he would have to broaden his reach to be successful. Mr. Thomas has done that in the intervening years by deepening his service to Ward 5 residents, expanding his civic accomplishments, and earning the respect and support of civic and community leaders. He bears the name of his father, the late former council member Harry Thomas, and the strengths and attributes of his mother, former public school principal Romaine B. Thomas. But Harry Thomas Jr., through the services rendered and experience gained in Ward 5 activities, has earned the nomination of his party on his own.

I'm still undecided. I do know that Frank Wilds has disappointed me by leaving recent ANC-5A meetings midway through - if you're a commissioner, you know you have at least one two-hour committment every month, and this seems more obvious to me than to Wilds. Anyone else?

Help Make the Alexander Crummel School Community Center a Reality - Thursday, August 24th

What: The Department of Parks and Recreation Ward 5 Town Hall Meeting. Stand in solidarity with your Ivy City neighbors in getting the historic Crummel School transferred to the jurisdiction of the Department of Parks and Recreation as a multi-purpose recreation center.

When: Thursday, August 24th, 2006, 6:30-8:30pm

Where: North Michigan Park Recreation Center, 1333 Emerson Street, NE

Background: (from Empower DC)
Ivy City Has a Youth Detention Center - We Need a Youth Opportunity Center!

The continued trend and current rise in crime among youth in the District underscores the dire need for more services, employment opportunities and youth development programs.

The Historic Ivy City/Crummell School Revitalization Coalition is a community based organization dedicated to the rebirth of the historic Alexander Crummell school into a multi-use facility that would provide services to youth and largely underserved senior residents of Ivy City, Langston-Carver Terrace, Trinidad, and surrounding neighborhoods.

The renovated school and its two acre grounds must be transformed from a place of blight and decay to one of community uplift and opportunity including job training, tutoring, mentorship, recreation and other needed programs.

Why Crummell School? The Alexander Crummell School is named for abolitionist, educator and clergyman Rev. Doctor Alexander Crummell whose life's mission was the uplift of Black people. The school was built in 1911 to serve African American children from the historic working-class community of Ivy City and neighboring Trinidad. The school served as the civic heart of the community and as a site for recreational programs until around 1980. Since that time the DC government has allowed the building to sit and rot, and depress its surrounding neighborhood. Residents of Ivy City have long been on record asking that their broken heart be repaired, and turned into a multi-use center to serve youth and elders. Now is a critical time to make this vision a reality.

We are asking the City Council to immediately transfer the Crummell School building and its grounds from the office of Property Management and add it to the inventory of the Department of Parks and Recreation for renovation and community use. Help us hold elected officials accountable to caring for the lives of our youth.

Support the Campaign for Crummell School By:

* You or Your Organization/Institution Signing-On as an Endorser

* Participating in on-going Campaign Activities

Partial List of Endorsing Organizations:

Empower DC
Historic Ivy City/Crummell School Revitalization Coalition
Movement for Love and Unity
Bread for the City
Young Women's Drumming Empowerment Project
DC Statehood Green Party
Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless
Sasha Bruce Youthwork, Inc
Youth Leadership Support Network
Save Our Schools
Power Palette
Gray Panthers of Metropolitan Washington
Stand Up! for Democracy in DC
Committee to Save Franklin Shelter
DC Library Renaissance Project
Fix Our Schools
GCH Endowment to Promote Quality Early Childhood Education
Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington, DC

Parisa B. Norouzi
Co-Director/Organizer
District of Columbia Grassroots Empowerment Project
(Empower DC)
1419 V St, NW
Washington, DC 20009
(202) 234-9119


More background information at Frozen Tropics, Cultural Tourism DC, and the Ivy City-Trinidad Citizens Association.

Alley Cat Allies Community Meeting - Wednesday, August 23rd

Our neighbors were kind enough to arrange for Alley Cat Allies to handle the Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) of the family of feral kittens (and momma) that appeared in our shed not long after we moved in last year. My biggest fear was that our small colony (6-8, give or take) would quickly become it's own sovereign nation of feral cats. Months later, I'm happy to report that all the kitties are still around, sans additions.

While stray and feral cats are not what most folks would consider ideal - we have three very domestic and spoiled felines of our own, so of course I wish everyone had a home - they are a reality in our urban landscape. And you simply cannot turn a feral cat into a snuggly lap warmer. Our colony - along with a few other strays - is fed daily from at least two backyards and seems to be quite content romping around the block, particularly between our yard and the neighbors'. I urge you to attend this meeting and/or support Alley Cat Allies in any way you can. Also see the National Feral Cat Day site (October 16th this year) for additional information.

What: A free community meeting hosted by Alley Cat Allies. Learn what differentiates a feral cat from other domesticated cats. Hear about non-lethal, humane, and effective means of controlling stray and feral cat populations. See what a humane trap looks like. Learn about available spay/neuter resources in the DC area. Come voice your concerns and learn more about what you can do to help your neighborhood cats.

When: Wednesday, August 23rd, 2006 at 7pm

Where: Petworth Library, 4200 Kansas Avenue, NW (Georgia Avenue and Upshur Street).

Etc.: For more information about this and other neighborhood cat programs, contact MCATdc@alleycat.org.

Ward 5 Council Candidate Forum - Saturday, August 19th

What: Ward 5 Council Candidate Forum at the "Continue Our Legacy - Each One, Teach One" Community Festival

When: Saturday, August 19th, 2006, 10am-1pm

Where: Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, 5301 North Capitol St., NE (corner of Riggs Road and North Capitol Street)

Details: The Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ 125th Anniversary Committee, The August Calendar Club, WPFW (89.3), and The Board of Social Action will present the "Continue Our Legacy - Each One, Teach One" Community Festival on Saturday, August 19th from 10am to 4pm followed by a Jazz Concert at 6pm.

The Festival will include a health fair, dancers, drummers, children's activities such as a balloon bounce, hip-hop bands, book signings, vendors, artists, a jazz concert, a literacy van, the HIV-AIDS screening bus, tabling for organizations, and two candidates forums – one for candidates for the president of the D.C. School Board and a second forum for candidates for the Ward 5 DC City Council seat. The Ward 5 forum will be held from 10am-1pm, and will be moderated by Renee Bowser, noted labor union representative, Ward 4 ANC Chair, and former Statehood/Green Party candidate for Ward 4 City Council. The forum for the D.C. School Board President will be held from 1:30-3:30pm and will be moderated by several education activists.

Don't Drink the Water!

4401 through 4415 8th Street, NE and 831 and 832 Varnum Street, NE have been warned not to drink their water because of elevated levels of nitrates. Not good. Stunning, late-breaking images of water being flushed out on Fox5.

Hear Him, See Him: Orange's Early Week Media Blitz

Wow - here I was thinking he'd all but given up on the Mayoral race (doesn't bother to show for the forums I'm able to attend). But no, he's still in the game, and he knows EXACTLY what the most important issue is for DC residents ducking bullets and still-sky-high housing costs: gay marriage. And I quote:

I'm the only one that is opposed to same-sex marriage. The other four, they say they believe in God, they go to church, but they are also for same-sex marriage. So I think coming down the stretch that is going to be the issue. I don't think they are morally fit to run this city.

Watch the video from Fox5 here if you're in the mood to punch out your computer screen. [4/21/11 - original link has moved, now updated with a link to a YouTube video]

This afternoon, out of the kindness of his heart, Kojo Nnamdi had Orange on for and "intimate" interview. No mention of morality today - clearly Orange is savvy enough to know the difference between his Fox and NPR constituents. If I recall correctly, today's piece goes something like, "Blah, blah, blah, MY New Town, blah, blah, blech." When asked who he would like to see as Mayor if he doesn't win, Orange replies that Cropp would be best "for the stability of the government." What an even-tempered response - and/or he's hedging his bets on the rumor that "Cropp is offering Orange the possibility of an administrative position in her cabinet should she prevail." I suppose that sounds better than Jonetta's suggestion, "Ad man - that's the job!" Pick your listening poison here (the segment lasts ≈16 minutes).

Ward 5 Council Candidate Debate - TONIGHT

What: The Coalition of Concerned Neighbors is hosting a Ward 5 Council candidate debate, moderated by Madeline LaCore, Community Relations Senior Producer for WUSA9

When: Monday, August 14th, 2006, 6:30-8:30pm

Where: Michigan Park Christian Church, Carter Hall, 1600 Taylor Street, NE, (202) 526.3355

I don't have information on who has confirmed their appearance. For a good primer on a number of the candidates running on the Deomcratic ticket, check out the July/August issue of the Brookland Heartbeat (membership to the Brookland listserv required).

Surprise! ANC 5A Meeting TOMORROW

I'm puzzled about this, but it's true there couldn't have been a quorum at July's meeting. From neighbors on the Brookland Listserv:

Just wanted to share that we just learned that our ANC 5A (led by commissioner Mary Currie) will be having a meeting at 11AM Saturday (August 12th) at the Turkey Thicket Recreation Center. Apparently this is due to the regular July meeting's quorum failure. If anyone has any issues they want to raise before the next regularly scheduled meeting on Sept. 12th, it would be good to try and make this meeting. There is a lot going on in Brookland as you all know and these are excellent opportunites to let you voices be heard.

P.S. We don't know when this meeting was called - we just learned of it today (the day before the meeting.)

My guess is that it may be a continuation of the discussion that nearly devolved into an argument about the forthcoming charrette for the Brookland/CUA Metro development. Yes, an near-argument about a plan to come up with a plan.

Suspect(s) Sought in Armed Robberies/Carjackings in Woodridge

I know most of us take precautions when out in the evenings, but these incidents all occurred in the early morning, presumably as folks are heading off to work or returning from their night shifts. Luckily, no one was hurt, but I can't help but think about how pissed - and perhaps more inclined to use the gun - the perpetrator(s) must be, since two of the attempts failed. I'd like to remind everyone that pepper spray (NOT mace) is legal in the District, though it must be registered with the MPD. I purchased mine from Arnold Passman of Live Safe America when he spoke on personal safety at my office; if you tell him you live in DC, he can supply you with the proper paperwork to file. From MPD:

The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in identifying and locating the person or persons responsible for a series of similar armed offenses committed against female victims within the Fifth District. None of the victims in these cases sustained physical injuries.

The first offense, an armed carjacking, occurred in the 3400 block of South Dakota Avenue, NE, at about 4:30 am, on Saturday, August 5, 2006. Reportedly, an adult female was approached by a tall, thin black male armed with a silver colored handgun while she sat behind the wheel of her auto at a red traffic light. The suspect entered the passenger side of the auto and made the victim drive. He then directed her pull over in the vicinity of 20th Street and South Dakota Avenue, NE, where he told her to exit the vehicle and then forced her into the trunk of her car. The suspect drove for a while, and apparently picked up another black male. At some point, the victim was coerced into revealing the Personal Identification Number (PIN) for her ATM card. The suspect(s) then obtained cash from the victim's bank account. The victim was released from the trunk of her car in the area of 20th and Franklin Streets, NE, and her car and keys were returned to her before the gunman fled on foot.

The second offense, an attempted armed carjacking, occurred in the area of South Dakota Avenue and 22nd Street, NE, at about 5:17 am, on Wednesday, August 9, 2006. As she sat behind the wheel of her auto, an adult female was approached by a tall, thin black male wearing a white mask and a white tee shirt and armed with a silver colored handgun. The suspect threatened the victim with the gun, but she drove away.

The third offense, an attempted armed carjacking, occurred in the 2600 block of South Dakota Avenue, NE, at about 5:30 am, on Wednesday, August 9, 2006. As she sat behind the wheel of her auto, an adult female was approached by a tall, thin black male wearing a white mask and a white tee shirt and armed with a silver colored handgun. The suspect threatened the victim with the gun, but she drove away.

The fourth offense, an armed robbery, occurred in the 3800 block of 22nd Street, NE, at about 5:44 am, on Wednesday, August 9, 2006. An adult female waiting for a [G8] bus at a bus stop was robbed at gunpoint by a tall, thin black male wearing a white mask and a white tee shirt and armed with a silver colored handgun. The suspect stole the victim's purse and fled on foot through the north alley.

These cases are under investigation members of the MPDC/FBI Robbery Task Force and Fifth District detectives. Anyone with information about these offenses is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099.

The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any robbery committed in the District of Columbia.

I'll post updates if/when they come in.

Public DCPL Board of Trustees Meeting - Wednesday, August 9th

What: The first Trustees meeting held since the arrival of new DCPL director, Ginnie Cooper.

When: Wednesday, August 9th, 2006 at 6pm

Where: Chevy Chase Branch Library, 5625 Connecticut Avenue, NW

I've been told that a members of the Tenley community will be there protesting the ongoing closure - since December 2004 - of their branch. I hope folks from Anacostia, Benning, and Watha T. Daniel/Shaw do the same.

- - -

Robin Diener, Director of the DC Library Renaissance Project, passed along this interesting tidbit from the Washington Business Journal:

Nat'l Geographic pictures itself at new District site

The National Geographic Society is looking to migrate east, to the sprawling site of D.C.'s old convention center.

The media organization, based in a nearby three-building complex at 17th and M streets NW, is pursuing a deal with D.C. officials to build a museum, retail and entertainment complex -- and possibly office space -- on the city-owned portion of the property.

You should be able to read the entire article if you have a subscription (unfortunately I don't). Now, go straight to the comments, where NGS employee, imgoph, tells us this is nothing more than a delicious rumor.

Two Teens Shot Outside Market Lounge

A friend called this evening and was giving me the details of her bus rides (yes, plural) home to SE from H Street NE. Much of the story revolved around a group of teens both on the bus and at her transfer that was quite excited and vocal about some other kids getting shot. Because I can't help it, I had the TV on in the background. About an hour into our conversation, there was the shooting on Fox 5 news! Now, Fox 5's website stinks, imho, and they don't have RSS, but NBC4 has the goods:

Police are investigating a shooting incident that left three people injured Monday evening in northeast Washington.

Authorities said two teens exchanged gunfire just after 6 p.m. in the 1200 block of Fifth Street Northeast [though I believe I first heard the argument occured at 5th and Morse]. Investigators said the shooting occurred shortly after a concert for teens let out at the Market Lounge, which is a club above the D.C. Farmer's Market in the 1300 block.

Officials said three 15-year-olds were injured [see update below]. A female sustained gunshot wounds to the legs. A male was shot in the hand. Another male was pistol-whipped.

Two teens were arrested for fighting. One had a gun. Investigators said they recovered a car and another gun that may have been related to the shooting, but the person who police said fired the shots is still on the loose.

The dance was scheduled to end early enough so teens could get home before the new 10 p.m. curfew.

Police believe the shooting may stem from an ongoing dispute between two groups of young people.

I'm bothered more by the likely age group of the perpetrators than the fact that this is the second shooting at the Capital City/Florida Market in less than a week. That and how "cool" the incident was to about 200 of our young people....

- - -

At least three other people were shot last night in the District:

An adult male was shot in the 300 block of 61st Street NE just before 10pm. His injuries were not considered life-threatening.

Just after midnight, another shooting was reported in the 5200 block of Just Street NE. A male suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

A fourth shooting incident occurred at 3am in the 4600 block of Livingston Road SE. An adult male suffered multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. The victim was transported to an area hospital in serious condition.

***UPDATE*** This WaPo article has more details. Those injured include a 14-year-old girl shot in both legs, a 13-year-old boy shot in one leg, and a 17-year-old youth who was pistol-whipped. Another 17-year-old who sped away from the scene was stopped by MPD and arrested after they found a shotgun in his car.

Armed Robbery at Capital City/Florida Market

From MPD:

The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the assistance of the public in attempting to identify the suspect wanted in connection with an armed robbery and shooting.

At approximately 6:50 am on Friday, August 4, 2006, four men were sitting in front of the Donald Chin Supply Company located at 1323 4th Street, NE. It was at that time that a lone male subject armed with a handgun approached the group and forced them inside. One of the victims was subsequently shot in the right and left leg and robbed of his wallet before the subject fled on foot. That victim was transported to an area hospital where he was admitted in critical but stable condition. His name and the identities of the other victims in this case are being withheld due to the fact that they are witnesses.

The suspect in this case is described as a black male, possibly in his 30s, 5’10” tall with a slim build, medium complexion and large sideburns. He is further described as wearing a light gray tee-shirt, light blue jeans and black and white tennis shoes.

This case remains under investigation by detectives from the department’s Fifth District. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099.

The Metropolitan Police Department is currently offering a reward of up to $10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any robbery committed in the District of Columbia.

You can watch the surveillance tape (the actual shooting is not on tape) here.

- - -

In other news, an arrest was made in the November 2005 shooting death of 29-year-old Patrick Carter on the 1800 block Corcoran Street, NE.

Finally, New Kid on the Eckington Block gives a shout-out to the cops for getting one more gun off our streets.

Ward 5 Candidate Forum - Monday, August 7th

What: DC Fair Budget Coalition's Ward 5 Candidate Forum

When: Monday, August 7th, 2006, 7-8:30pm

Where: 4860 Fort Totten Drive, NE (Milestone Place)

About: Come learn the candidates’ positions on these and many other issues:

Child Care
Disability Rights
Domestic Violence
Education and Youth Development
Emergency Assistance
Health
Housing, Homelessness, and Shelter
Jobs

Questions? Contact Marina Streznewski, CFLS, at 202.347.0511, ext. 414 or mstreznewski@cflsdc.org.

"The Fair Budget Coalition fights for a just and inclusive District of Columbia through advocacy and organizing and by advancing budget and public policy initiatives which reflect the interdependency of the District’s community and economic development systems. Organized in 1994, Fair Budget is a coalition of grassroots community groups, human service providers, advocates, faith organizations, and concerned community members." For information about the Fair Budget Coalition, contact Martina Gillis at 202.328.5513 or mailto:swade@washingtonregion.net.

DC Environmental Network Mayoral Candidates Forum - Thursday, August 3rd, 1-3pm

What better time to attend an environmentally geared Mayoral Candidates Forum than in globally warmed 100°+ temperatures? Well, perhaps June 29th, but I'm guessing it just wasn't hot enough for Fenty, Cropp, and Johns (in all fairness, Fenty did show up just in time for the last question of the evening).

But enough about my disappointment with a few of the contenders the first time around; let's just hope they don't squander this second chance:

OPEN TO ALL!
D.C. Environmental Network to hold Mayoral and Council Chair CANDIDATES FORUMS @ Friends of the Earth

District of Columbia environmental organizations, individuals and activists will hold Mayoral and Council Chair Candidates Forums in August to highlight key issues in the recently released DC Environmental Agenda. Candidates will have an opportunity to present their environmental vision for the District to residents and explain their thoughts on issues that most directly impact the environmental health of our communities.

MAKE-UP Forum for Mayoral Candidates FORUM
DATE: Thursday, August 3, 2006
PARTICIPANTS SO FAR: Linda Cropp, Marie Johns, Adrian Fenty
TIME: 1:00 TO 3:00 PM
PLACE: FRIENDS OF THE EARTH, 1717 Massachusetts Avenue NW #600 (Dupont Circle Metro - South Exit)

Council Chair/At-Large Council Candidates FORUM
DATE: Thursday, August 17, 2006
PARTICIPANTS SO FAR: Phil Mendelson, Kathy Patterson
TIME: 12 TO 1:30 PM
PLACE: FRIENDS OF THE EARTH, 1717 Massachusetts Avenue NW #600 (Dupont Circle Metro - South Exit)

Please remember to bring a picture ID to get in the building!

About the DC Environmental Agenda
In 1999, twelve District environmental organizations created the first ever Environmental Agenda for the District of Columbia. This agenda was a collaborative effort of citizen activists to chart a course for environmental protection. It recognized that a new Mayor and Council would have an opportunity to reverse some of the negative trends of years past and promote working towards a more livable city for all residents. It made recommendations, for action and drew upon the collective wisdom of many District environmental leaders as well as successful initiatives in other parts of the country.

Today in 2006, the Summit Fund of Washington and over 30 environmental, health, faith, citizen and civic organizations are answering a call to action by participating in creating a new environmental agenda for the District. This new agenda will build on the successes of the past six years and will set a new standard of environmental excellence for the District.

Together, these proposals will chart a course toward excellence in the provision of city services and the protection of public health. As we believed in 1999, restoration of environmental quality in the District is a pro-business, pro-economic growth platform that more and more public officials are starting to embrace and act on.

For more information please contact Chris Weiss at 202.222.0746.

Drug Bust in NE and a Great New Google Mashup Crime Map

Thanks to Frozen Tropics and Kathryn Sinzinger, Editor and Publisher of The Common Denominator, for early updates about Sunday crime happenings in NE, including a First District carjacking that ended at 17th and Jackson in Brookland with the apprehension of the suspects and a handgun. Ms. Sinzinger posted to the Brookland listserv on the drug bust:

This news tidbit should be of interest to everyone who has been concerned about the continuing drug problem around Turkey Thicket. Officers from the Fourth Police District executed a search warrant around 1 p.m. yesterday at 1017 Taussig Place NE and arrested a 24-year-old resident of that address, identified by police as Derek Nathaniel Blandon. Blandon is supposed to be arraigned in D.C. Superior Court today on charges that include possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and carrying a pistol without a license. Police seized crack cocaine, marijuana, cash, a handgun and drug paraphernalia during the raid.

A PSA 405 officer tells me that this incident resulted from chance, not an investigation. Police who accompanied a probation officer to the home on Sunday smelled marijuana and "locked everybody down" while the search warrant was obtained.

I have been unable, so far, to ascertain whether 4D and 5D officers are communicating about this search and arrest, since the police district line is at Taylor Street and 5D has been trying to deal with the Turkey Thicket problem.

MPD's press release on the incident here.

- - -

CrimeinDC.org is a sparkly new Google Map mashup that not only incorporates the latest from Crimereports.com, but also breaks down the crimes into statistical data by type, ZIP, street, date, and day of the week. RSS, neighborhood radius searches, and e-mail alerts are forthcoming.

Also of note: The DCStat program intends to make "Crime Incidents" and arrests and charges available through RSS (hopefully) before the end of the year.

Finally, continue to stay alert and safe - it looks like we can't afford otherwise.

Ward 5 Light Up the Night Coalition Launch in Conjunction with the 23rd Annual Night Out

Mentioned previously here, Ward 5's "Light Up the Night Coalition" officially launches its campaign at the National Night Out against crime kick-off:

The District's observance of [the 23rd annual] National Night Out will officially kick off at 5pm on Tuesday, August 1st, 2006 at Turkey Thicket Recreation Center at 10th and Michigan Avenue, NE, with food, music and a short walk around the neighborhood with the Ward 5 "Light Up the Night Coalition." Consisting of 16 community organizations, the Coalition is launching a campaign to distribute energy-efficient light bulbs to homeowners and to encourage them to leave their exterior lights on from dusk until dawn every day, as a way to combat crime.

Be sure to check out the July issue of DC North for a profile of Ms. Martha Ward and Light Up the Night (PDF version / text version).

National Night Out - Tuesday, August 1st (and the weekend NE crime round-up)

In an effort to get to sleep at a semi-decent hour, I'm cramming quite a bit of information into one post....

· The District's 21st homicide of 2006 came early yesterday morning when 25-year-old John Stapleton, III was stabbed from behind in the heart at the Benning Court Apartments in the 1700 block of Benning Road, NE around 1:20am July 30th, 2006. NBC4 has more here; MPD here.

· The February 17, 2006 death of 84-year-old Annette Oxley was ruled a homicide last week. Ms. Oxley was found unconscious in her residence on the 1500 block of Otis Street, NE. The Medical Examiner's Office determined that the cause of death in this case was murder by Acute and Chronic Cocaine Intoxication.

· Tuesday, August 1st, 2006 DC celebrates "National Night Out," sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. Some police districts start their festivities as early as 4pm; you can find the link to yours here.

· Finally, check out the MakeDCSafe.com site and petition for more foot patrols in DC, and consider adopting your own neighborhood version of "Know Five in Frederick." The name may not be as catchy for your immediate area ("Know a Bunch in Brookland," "Know Who's Your Neighbor in Woodridge," "Know Many in Michigan Park," "Know 'Em All in Edgewood or Eckington," "Know Ten in Trinidad," etc.), but the effect could far outshine the snazzy alliteration.

Ward 5 Council Candidates' Forum - Monday, July 31st

What: ACORN is hosting a Ward 5 Council candidates' forum

When: Monday, July 31st, 2006, 7-8:30pm

Where: Trinity Baptist Church, 1814 Central Place, NE (behind the Bethesda Baptist Church)

Inquiries: Please contact Modestine Snead, 202-547-9292 (ACORN's DC office)

Florida Market Tour - Saturday, July 29th @ 9am

I enjoyed last month's tour, but I'm mad at myself for skipping breakfast at Young's Deli, which closed quite suddenly just a little over a week after I was there....Details of Saturday's tour from Richard Layman:

The Capital City Market, more commonly known as the Florida Market, is the primary wholesale food distribution center in the city. A number of the businesses sell to retail customers. The cinder block "DC Farmers Market" building on Neal Street is comparable to Eastern Market, except it is privately owned, and less pretty.

The market area is under great development pressure because of its location and the attractiveness of the New York Avenue subway stop. The Office of Planning Cluster 23 Study proposes that the market be revitalized through a food-centered plan. An alternative proposal suggests demolishing everything and starting over. We're interested in showing people the assets that the market has to offer. The July issues of the Hill Rag and DC North had an article about the market and the issues involved (PDF versions).



On Saturday, Elise Bernard of the Frozen Tropics blog, and I will lead a free tour of the market. It will start at 9:00 a.m. at 4th and Morse Streets, NE.

We will visit one dozen places that sell retail, including the multi-vendor cinder block "Farmers Market" and the outdoor flea market, before finishing at Litteri's, which in my opinion, has the best Italian sub sandwich in the city (sorry Vace, sorry Mangialiardo's). We should finish up around 11 a.m.

New developments. In the month since we've done the last tour, Young's Deli has closed because the landlord wants to sell the building. Councilmember Orange announced at a Mayoral candidates forum that he has entered legislation with 11 co-sponsors!!!!!!!!!!!! to proceed with the "New Town" plan, which to go forward requires (1) hundreds of millions of dollars of city subsidies; and (2) eminent domain takings; because (3) the initiators of the New Town "plan" only control 10% of the land.

Also see this feature from the Post food section, published in May, "The Insiders' Market: For International Finds, Those in the Know Shop at Capital City in the Warehouse District."

Three Assisting Mayor's DCPL Task Force Among Those Allegedly Fired

Wow. Compare this sentence from "The Mayor's Task Force on the Future of the District of Columbia Public Library System: Summary of Findings and Draft Report, November 2005":

Similarly, the following members of the staff of the District of Columbia Public Library provided assistance to the Task Force: Gail Avery, Se'an Crumley, Rose Dawson, Bette Ann Hubbard, Monica Lewis, Jewel Ogonji, Pat Pasqual, Rita Thompson-Joyner and Barbara Webb.

With this from last week's Post:

According to the sources, those dismissed were Jewel Ogonji, head librarian; Angela Purnell, assistant library director for administrative and operational services; Yema Tucker, head of collection development and management; Se'an Crumley, head of information and technology systems; and Barbara Webb, head of neighborhood library services....A blue-ribbon task force appointed by Mayor Anthony A. Williams (D) is expected to release a report in about two weeks, [John W.] Hill, [president of the library Board of Trustees,] said. The task force did not recommend the terminations, Hill said.

No, I imagine those assisting the Task Force wouldn't suggest their own terminations.

Edgewood Terrace Shooting - One Teen and One Adult Wounded

From NBC4:

In the midst of a crime emergency, a 14-year-old boy is one of two people shot overnight in northeast Washington.

D.C. police said officers were called to the 600 block of Edgewood Terrace shortly before 12:30 a.m. Officers said a group of people had gathered in the courtyard area of the Edgewood Terrace Apartments when an armed person began shooting.

"There were several people in the courtyard and a subject walked up with at least one weapon, opened fire and struck two individuals," said D.C. police officer Willie Smith. "One juvenile and one adult male was struck and both were taken to hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries."

Authorities said the two victims are in stable condition. Police said they have yet to establish a motive for the shootings, which happened just days before an alternative curfew takes effect for anyone under the age of 16.

The new curfew hours are from 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. and start July 31, but there are some exemptions.

Teens under 16 will be exempt if they are with a parent, guardian or a person over the age of 21, if they are on an errand for a parent or guardian, if they are attending a school or church event and if they are going to or returning from work.

The alternate curfew expires Aug. 31.

Just two hours earlier, 17-year-old Ronnie Garner died after being shot in the head Monday morning. Two homicides in less than 24 hours; two teens shot in less than 24 hours....Will the curfew really make a difference?

ANC-5A Monthly Meeting - Wednesday, July 26th

What: Advisory Neighborhood Commission 5A Monthly Meeting (this link shows you the 2006 schedule - no meetings in August and December)

When: Wednesday, July 26th, 2006 at 7pm

Where: Slowe Elementary School, 1404 Jackson Street, NE

Agenda: Ms. Ellen McCarthy, Director, Office of Planning; Ms. Deborah Crain, Ward 5 Planner; Police Crime Reports; Community Concerns

*There will be no meeting in August - the next ANC 5A Monthly Community Meeting is Wednesday, September 27th, 2006*

Ward 5 Democrats Endorsement Meeting Tomorrow

The DC Urban Moms and Dads Mayoral Forum originally scheduled for tomorrow has been cancelled:

While our event was scheduled weeks before the Ward 5 Endorsement Meeting, the candidates have expressed their need to attend that meeting. As as a result, we cannot expect candidate participation in our forum. We thought that changing the time would resolve this conflict, but ran into additional issues. Therefore, we are left with no alternative but to cancel the event.

Ward 5 Democrats Endorsement Meeting

When: Saturday, July 22nd, 2006, 10:00am-2:00pm

Where: Noyes Elementary School, 10th and Franklin Streets, NE

Notes: The Ward 5 candidates will give presentations from 12:45-1:45pm. The meeting begins with presentations by the Council Chairman candidates. All Democrats registered to vote in Ward 5 are invited and may vote to endorse the candidates of their choice in each of the following contests: Council Chairman, Council At-Large, Mayor, Delegate to Congress, Shadow Senator, Shadow Representative, and Ward 5 Council.


DC Urban Moms and Dads Mayoral Candidates Forum

When: Saturday, July 22nd, 10:00am-12:00pm (the time has changed so that mayoral candidates may participate in both events this Saturday)

Where: Foundry United Methodist Church, 1500 16th Street, NW (16th and P)

SIXTH July Homicide in NE

In light of the heated discussions going on across the District, it's important to note that the only place I've seen info on this yet is in an MPD press release:

Homicide in the 3600 Block of Jay Street, NE

At approximately 11:08 pm, on Tuesday, July 18, 2006, police were called to the 3600 block of Jay Street, NE, for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival officers located 26-year-old Daniel Joseph Bailey, of the 100 block of Joliet Street, SE, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to the Prince George's County Hospital where he was admitted in critical condition. On Wednesday, July 19, 2006, he was pronounced dead at 2:35 pm.

The case is under investigation by members of the department's Violent Crimes Branch.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to called police at (202) 727-9099.

The department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information who leads to the arrest and conviction to the person or persons responsible of any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.

Setting my stopwatch for the WaPo and [insert mainstream media outlet here] human interest story. . .now.

Let the Firing Begin - DCPL

From today's Post:

The head librarian at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library and several other high-ranking officials have been fired days before the arrival of the new D.C. library director, according to sources familiar with the personnel changes.

John W. Hill, president of the library Board of Trustees, said yesterday that he could not confirm which employees had been dismissed, but he said the move was "part of the big transformation."

"We felt that there needed to be a transformational structure put in place to allow the new director to make changes fast," Hill said.

Hill added that Ginnie Cooper, the former executive director of the Brooklyn (N.Y.) Public Library, will start work Monday.

The decision to terminate employees was authorized by the library's acting director, Ellen M. Flaherty, who previously was head of personnel for the library. The board "fully supports this move," Hill said.

According to the sources, those dismissed were Jewel Ogonji, head librarian; Angela Purnell, assistant library director for administrative and operational services; Yema Tucker, head of collection development and management; Se'an Crumley, head of information and technology systems; and Barbara Webb, head of neighborhood library services.

The terminations came a month after Hill and union officials testified at a D.C Council hearing in favor of a proposal to sell the 36-year-old central library and replace it with a $207 million state-of-the-art building at the old convention center site at 11th Street and New York Avenue NW.

A blue-ribbon task force appointed by Mayor Anthony A. Williams (D) is expected to release a report in about two weeks, Hill said. The task force did not recommend the terminations, Hill said.

"The report signals a vision for the future, and it is up to management to determine what staff is needed to implement that vision," Hill said of the draft.

Robin Diener, director of the Library Renaissance Project at the nonprofit Center for the Study of Responsive Law, said her advocacy group welcomes some changes in personnel.

"I don't want the Board of Trustees to get a get-out-of-jail-free card, because they have left the library system adrift for the past three years by failing to provide a permanent library director," Diener said.

Anntoinette White-Richardson, a union official who represents 300 library employees, said she does not expect that the rank and file, who "keep the library system running," will be affected by the firings.

"We expected the transformation to reach farther than facilities," she said. "Once the board started peeling the layers, they saw they couldn't stop there. It was more than about buildings."

Meanwhile, as plans for the new main library move forward, the rest of us are still waiting on the "blue-ribbon task force" report. Take a look at this article in The InTowner (if you have trouble, search for "Mayor’s Plan for New Central Library to Replace Existing MLK Building Continues in Limbo; No Immediate Action Expected" from the main page in the July 3, 2006 issue). A nice wrap-up of last month's hearing, it notes what the Post continuously overlooks - the community is divided on the plans for a new central library and for various reasons. Myself? I'm straddling the middle, but I am strongly against the way this is being handled as a community matter; it seems the only input those ultimately making the call consider credible falls directly in line with the plans they've had in motion long before they asked for our opinions.

Escaped Prisoner Apprehended Near Scene of Original Crime

James Bell was captured around 7:15 p.m. Tuesday near 17th and L Streets, NE. Good to know that if you're an arsonist with no fixed address, you'll just duck from the cops a block away from the original crime scene. I hope someone is taking notes.

"Night on Ninth" Gallery Receptions - Thursday, July 20th

Roxanne’s ARTiques, located at 3426 9th Street NE, on Historic Brookland’s Gallery Row, across the street from the neighborhood landmark Colonel Brooks Tavern, will feature original photographs by six Washington-area photographers. The show features photographs and manipulated images of summer, including children at play, bridges and alleys, fireworks, flowers, and other scenes.

The photographers represented in the show are Ted Austin, Melissa Covington, Gloria Kirk, Otis Motley, Kelly Perl, Ph.D., and Leonard Tate. An opening reception will be held from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 20th.

Ted Austin owns Pro Photo Images, a full service photography studio, including complete digital imaging facilities, in the Takoma neighborhood in Washington, DC. Over his career, he has gravitated towards fine arts photography and now, after further study and experimentation, digital imaging.

A retired teacher and photographer for a federal government agency, Mr. Austin teaches at his studio and for the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. His work has been displayed in numerous exhibitions. As a retired teacher and educator, Austin prefers photography, saying that "A bad day in the darkroom is better than a good day in the classroom, although now, instead of eight hours in the darkroom, it's eight hours at the computer."

Melissa Covington, a speech-language pathologist, took up photography in 1995, and is a partner in Beyond Photography. She prefers to shoot odd architectural angles, unusual objects, and scenes in nature.

Gloria Kirk is a native Washingtonian. While focusing today on photographing vintage vehicles and creating conceptual photographic art, Ms. Kirk's photography includes weddings, photojournalism, portraits, architectcure, and abstracts. She has had work published in various media, and has exhibited in galleries in the U.S., Africa, and Cuba.

Otis Motley is a freelance and press photographer, specializing in portraits, news, sports, dances, weddings, and special events, and travel. A graduate of the New York Institute of Photographer, his assignments have included Hoops for the Homeless, Cherry Blossom Festivals, Fourth of July Celebrations, and activities in Germany including the Michael Jackson concert tour in 1997 and President Clinton visiting U.S. troops.

Kelly Perl lives in the the Brookland neighborhood in Washington. She has photographed a wide variety of New York City landmarks including the Brooklyn Bridge, the now abandoned Bethelehem Steel Works in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Her work in the show can be described as "industrial pastoral," juxtaposing industrial subjects and infrastructure with nature.

Leonard Tate was born in Detroit, Michigan and works as a psychologist in Virginia. His photographic eye captures people, nature, and odd and weird objects. He is also a partner in Beyond Photography.

The "Summertime: Six Photographers" show will be displayed from Thursday, July 20th through Thursday August, 31st. A closing reception will be held on Thursday, August 31st, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Roxanne’s ARTiques is owned by Roxanne Carter, a long-time resident of the Michigan Park neighborhood in Greater Brookland, in the northeast quadrant of Washington, D.C. The gallery features artifacts and works of art by national and international artists. The Gallery is open from 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, and from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, and is located one block from the Brookland/CUA red line Metro subway station. For more information, contact Roxanne Carter at (202)-526-7020, by email at roxannesartiques@hotmail.com, and on the internet at www.roxannesartiques.com.

Also see the Summer Art! blog for additional gallery openings in Brookland this Thursday.

Man Missing from NE

Missing Person: Jerome John Baker

The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in attempting to locate a missing person. Jerome John Baker was reportedly last seen at approximately 8:30 am, on Monday, July 17, 2006, in the 400 block of W Street, NE.

Jerome John Baker is described as a black male, 48 years of age, 6'0" tall and weighing approximately 180 pounds. He is further described as having a dark complexion, brown eyes, black hair and a scar on his left cheek. He was reportedly last seen wearing blue jean shorts, a red baseball hat and black slippers. He is also said to use a black metal cane for walking.

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Jerome John Baker is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099.

Prisoner Escapes in NE During Transport

***UPDATED***

I just put two-and-two together: this is the man who torched Kathy Henderson's car just over two weeks ago! I wonder if this qualifies her for a police escort home?



From MPD:

The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in helping to locate an escaped prisoner.

At approximately 3:30 am, on Friday, June 30, 2006, a 1991 Mercury Capri was set ablaze at 1807 L Street, NE. A second vehicle, a 1999 Suzuki Vitary, was also damaged as a result of the fire.

A subsequent investigation by members of the department's Fifth District led to the arrest of 34-year-old James D. Bell, of no fixed address. He was arrested, without incident, at 19th Street and Maryland Avenue, NE, at approximately 4:24 pm, on Saturday, July 15, 2006, and charged with Destruction of Property. At approximately 10 am, on Monday, July 17, 2006, Mr. Bell was being transported from the Fifth District station, located at 1805 Bladensburg Road, NE, to the department's Central Cell Block, located at 300 Indiana Avenue, NW. While in the 1300 block of Maryland Avenue, NE, Mr. Bell apparently managed to force or kick open the back door of the transport wagon and make good his escape.

James D. Bell is described as a 34-year-old black male, 6'1" tall, approximately 150 pounds with braided type hair. He has a tombstone-shaped tattoo with the letters "RIP" on his upper right arm and a heart-shaped tattoo with the word "TANYA" on his upper left arm. He was last seen wearing a black jump suit.

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of James D. Bell, or who sees him, should take no direct action but should call police at (202) 727-9099 or 911.

From WTOP:

D.C. police are looking for a prisoner who escaped from a transport vehicle Monday morning.

Police say 34-year-old James Bell managed to kick open the door of the vehicle in the 1300 block of Maryland Avenue, Northeast around 10:30 a.m. Bell was being moved from the Fifth Police District to police headquarters.

Bell also goes by the first name Marcell. He was arrested on Saturday on charges of setting fire to a vehicle on L Street, Northeast.

Police say Bell is a black man, about six-foot-one and 150 pounds. He has braided hair, a tombstone "RIP" tattoo on his upper right arm and a heart with the name "Tanya" in it on his upper left arm.

Bell was last seen wearing a black prison jumpsuit and may still have the plastic handcuffs he was wearing when he escaped.

I have a hard time believing the plastic 'cuffs are still on....

ANC-5A07 Meeting - Tuesday, July 18th

What: SMD-5A07 Meeting

When: Tuesday, July 18th, 2006, 6:30-8:30pm

Where: Slowe Elementary School, 1404 Jackson Street, NE (not at the library this time - the entrance is on 14th Street next to the playground)

Agenda: Charlie Robinson to discuss the Police Report; John McGaw and Brookland CDC Board to discuss questions about the CDC and the Brookland Main Street Program; Community Concerns

This meeting appears to have been called in response to what Commissioner Boston feels are "issues with the Brookland CDC." Pleaes note that the letter below states Boston's feelings, not mine, verbatim:

Hi everyone,

On Tuesday, July 18th, 6;30p, I will be having an ANC meeting at Slowe Elementary Library. I decided not have a meeting in July, but the issues with the Brookland CDC are very important for the neighborhood. I have invited the Brookland CDC and its board members to the meeting. They have yet to confirm. Yet, they send out this message talking of answering questions.

Why does it take over 2 weeks to answer simple questions on your dealings in the Brookland community? I have great concern for a 501c3 that continuously hides public information.

John McGaw who oversees the MainStreet programs under the office of Economic Development will be attending the meeting to answer questions. He told the community at the CDC annual meeting they were getting $300,000.00 to invest in the Brookland community. He is directly responsible for renewing the Mainstreet contract with the CDC,and helping them get these monies.

I am very concerned over these matters. The CDC could not answer one question concerning their finances at their Annual Meeting. Lavinia would not explain why Deans is still sitting empty. We know they are making money off that lease.

I want to understand who is responsible for the Brookland Parade and how we can improve it?
Lavinia is our Ward 5 Rep to the City for the Complehensive Plan, is a conflict of interest?
Where is the money their making off the parade going?
I would like to know how the art galleries are tied to the CDC?
I want to know what are their plans concerning Historic Preservation?
What is the make up of the Board?
Why are the volunteers and employees not from the Brookland community?

There are several more questions that I have been asking for over a year. Many of you have seen the emails. The CDC keeps trying and doing business concerning the community behind the community's back. This has to stop, especially since they are getting 300 grand. I want to see the Deans contract, everyone should have a copy.

Once again, I am inviting Lavinia Wohlfarth and the Board of Directors out to the July 18th meeting. If John McGaw can come to the meeting. Certainly, Lavinia can come and answer all of our questions.

If you do not see this on the Listserv, someone please post this email for me. Thank you

Please come out to this meeting and support YOUR community. I look forward to seeing everyone there. 6:30 - Slowe Library

ANC Boston

Trinidad-Ivy City Garden Club Annual Yard Sale Saturday, July 15th

Frozen Tropics point us to tomorrow's Trinidad-Ivy City Community Garden Club Annual Yard Sale, as well as their blog/site and listserv. Also note Trinidad's website, with Elise's wonderful neighborhood pictures, and the Ivy City-Trinidad Citizens Association website (though I don't know how often this site is updated).

TRINIDAD-IVY CITY GARDEN CLUB

2nd ANNUAL YARD SALE

JULY 15, 2006, 10am – 3pm

1100 Block Montello Ave. NE

All proceeds support the planting projects of the Trinidad Garden Club.

trinidadivycitygardenclub-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://ticgardenclub.blogspot.com/

Sometimes We Hear the Victims' Stories

Today's Post article, "13 Days, 14 Homicides: Each Victim In the City's Violent July Has a Story" laments:

Their cases received little attention compared with the slayings of a convenience store owner, a community activist and an aspiring British politician. But they created the same kind of anguish for the people they knew.

True, but can we now expect WaPo and other local media to give us this kind of detail going forward? Though doubtful, this piece does offer some insight into the lives of those murdered in the past two weeks - victims' whose names were likely found only in MPD press releases.

5 People Shot Overnight in DC - 4 of Them in NE

From NBC4:

D.C. police said one person is dead and four others wounded following four shootings that took place in different parts of the city.

About 10:44 p.m. Tuesday, police were called to the 1200 block of Morse Street Northeast, where they found an adult female who had been shot. Police said her injuries were not life-threatening.

Then about 11:30 p.m., police were called to 8th and Xenia streets in Southeast and found an adult male shot. He was taken to a local hospital in critical condition, police said.

Eight minutes later, officers were called to the 1800 block of Lincoln Road Northeast and found an adult male who had been shot. Police said he was also transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Another shooting victim later showed up at the hospital and was linked to Lincoln road, police said.

Finally about 2:10 a.m. Wednesday, police said [23-year-old Michael Dorsey] was shot in the 1900 block of Gallaudet Street in Northeast. Investigators said he was shot in the street and stumbled into a building where he collapsed and died.

The shootings happened just hours after D.C. Police Chief Charles Ramsey declared a crime emergency in the city, in response to this month's jump in violent crime.

The District is, at this very moment, at 14 homicides for the month of July. Courtland Milloy notes that the recent surge in violent robberies has "[shaken the] sense of security among the affluent and influential....The city is being terrorized - and, as residents of many low-income neighborhoods will tell you, it's been that way for years."

Vote for Dwellings in the Washington Post's 2006 Best Bets (and more!)

Do it now and do it often! If you haven't yet been to Dwellings, try to stop by this weekend. The owner, Roz Moore, and her staff are extremely helpful and kind, the products are lovely, and the prices are very reasonable (I wouldn't be surprised if you've seen a number of their accessories at other boutiques for twice the price). What a gem on 12th Street!

- - -

While I'm in endorsement mode, sneak a vote or three in for Washington Improv Theater. I've been a WIT student and volunteer - and soon to be class TA - for over a year-and-a-half. In that time I've made a number of great friends, reclaimed my "funny," and gained confidence I knew was hiding in me somewhere. Looking ahead, I'm partnering with their staff to fulfill their mission in the community by sharing the gifts of improv with local youth.

And, finally, take a look at the Best of Washington, DC Shop run by Brooklander dc gal. A comprehensive online shop for DC merchandise and political gear - t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, ringers, baseball jerseys, tote bags, messenger bags, mugs, stickers, teddy bears, and more. Look no further for your neighborhood gear....

Coalition of Concerned Neighbors Monthly Meeting TONIGHT

What: Coalition of Concerned Neighbors Monthly Meeting

When: Monday, July 10th, 2006, 6:30-8:30pm

Where: Woodridge Library, 1801 Hamlin Street, NE (18th and Rhode Island Avenue), 202.541.6226

Agenda: MPD-5D - Public Safety Update; Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton; Ron Magnus - Candidate for Ward 5 Council; Ron C. Claiborne - On Financial Safety, Public Affairs Specialist with the DC Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking

Contact: 202.882.1683 or concernneighbors@aol.com. Additional questions or concerns, please call Ms. Llyod at 202.903.6197 or 202.257.0001

* Note: The ANC Citizen Conference has been postponed until July 29th, 2006 at McKinley Tech High School. Please stay tuned for more information.*

Also of note tonight at the Woodridge Library: The Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking (DISB) is teaming up with the DC Public Library System and the Investor Protection Trust (IPT) to provide the Investor Education @ Your Library® seminars. The 60-minute seminar (7-8pm) includes a presentation on the regulation of securities by DISB, investor protection and education initiatives that can benefit District residents, and investor education exercises. Contact: Mary Cooper mary.cooper@dc.gov or (202)541-6226

Brookland Main Street Committees Looking for New Volunteers

The new Executive Director of the Historic Brookland Main Street initiative, Lee Alexander, sent out a message last week:

We are actively scouting for new volunteers to join the community working within our four main program committees. We seek volunteers with all types of backgrounds and experiences -- people who want to be part of the action; people who want to be "in-the-know"; people who are looking to become active and involved and give back to the community!

Here's just a taste of how to get involved:

Promotions Committee: Creates the excitement for our commercial district. Coordinates our street festival, parades, retail events and promotional campaigns. This committee meets the first Thursday of every month. This committee is meeting Thursday, July 6, 2006 at 7:15 PM! (apologies for my tardiness on this one -jaime)

Organization Committee: Involves creating a framework for our community that is well represented by businesses, property owners bankers and neighbors. In other words, a strong organization provides the stability to build and sustain long-term success. This committee meets the second Tuesday of every month. Our next committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 11, 2006!

Economic Restructuring Committee: Gets involved in analyzing current market forces to develop the long term success of our merchants as well as becomes active in helping to recruit new businesses to our neighborhood. This committee meets the third Tuesday of every month. Our next committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 18, 2006!

Design Committee: Works to enhance the street appeal and attractiveness to our business district. This committee meets the third Thursday of every month. Our next committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, July, 20, 2006!

Our meetings are held at the Brookland Visitors Center, 3420 9th Street, NE, and typically begin at 7:00 PM. If you would like more information about each committee, please contact me, Lee Alexander, Executive Director - Historic Brookland Main Street/CDC. I can be reached during normal business hours Monday through Friday at (202) 529-8400.

Please plan join us at one, two, or all program committee meetings this month!

More info about the Historic Brookland Mainstreet intiative here, here, and here (from 2004).

Homicide Inside 534 23rd Place, NE

This makes six homicides in the past seven days (NE and the NW section of Ward 5 combined - five if you want to stay within the bounds of NE). From MPD:

At approximately 9:45 last night, Thursday, July 6, 2006, police were called to 534 23rd Place, NE, for the report of an unconscious male. Upon arrival officers located a district male in an unresponsive state. DC Fire Department emergency medical personnel responded to the scene, but found no signs consistent with life. He was taken to the DC Medical Examiner's office and pronounced dead. His identity is being withheld pending notification of his next of kin.

The case is under investigation by members of the department's Violent Crimes Branch. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099.

The department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.

All I can bring myself to say at this point is that I hope the community has a safe and peaceful weekend.

1 Dead, 3 Injured In Northeast Shooting

It seems we are having a record-breaking homicide week here in NE. From MPD:

Homicide in the 1400 Block of Duncan Street, NE

At approximately 11:42 last night, Wednesday, July 5, 2006, police were called to the 1400 block of Duncan Street, NE, for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival officers located 30-year-old Darryl A. Hill, of the 1400 block of Duncan Street, NE, suffering from apparent multiple gunshot wounds to the body. He was taken to the Washington Hospital Center's MedStar Unit and pronounced dead. Police also located a 22-year-old male, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to the body along with a 30-year-old male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the body and a 37-year-old man suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the ankle. All the victims were taken to area hospitals. The 22-year-old male was admitted in critical but stable condition, the 30-year-old male and the 37-year-old male were admitted in stable condition.

Their names are being withheld because they are considered witnesses at this time.

The case is under investigation by members of the department's Violent Crimes Branch. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099.

The department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.

I missed this last week on the eve of the holiday weekend - with a juvenile victim; from MPD:

Homicide at 1506 45th Street, NE

At approximately 10:43 pm, on Thursday, June 29, 2006, Metropolitan Police were called to the front of 1506 45th Street, NE, for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, police located 17-year-old Carl George Whitfield, of the 4600 block of Blaine Street, NE, suffering from an apparent multiple gunshot wound to the body. He was taken to the Howard University Hospital and pronounced dead.

Also located at the scene was a 19-year-old male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the foot, and a 16-year-old male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound to the heel. Both victims were taken to area hospitals, treated and released.

The preliminary investigation reveals that, while the three victims were standing in front of 1506 45th Street, NE, an unknown person or persons drove up to the location in a dark-colored car and started to fire at the victims, before fleeing the scene.

The case is under investigation by members of the department's Violent Crimes Branch. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at (202) 727-9099.

The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia.

By my count - excluding any activity tonight and any I may have missed - NE has had a grand total of 5 homicides in the past 7 days. Add Maurice Darnaby's slaying (NW in Ward 5), and we're averaging nearly 1 homicide per day in the past week. Unacceptable. Much like the thanks citizens and community leaders get when they push for positive change.

Kathy Henderson's Car Set on Fire

***UPDATED***

Proof that it's not easy being a Ward 5 ANC Commissioner or Council candidate. Henderson's (5B-10) demeanor in the NBC4 footage is the same that has impressed me in various meetings. Also noted in The Examiner, the Post, and on WUSA9. It should be interesting to see where the investigation leads.

Hat tip to Elise for pointing out a WaPo article written a little over a year ago, "Hazards of ANC Job Outlined."

Zipcar vs. Flexcar - Help Me Decide!

I'm hoping some of you out there have already made a decision - that you either regret or not - on whether Zipcar or Flexcar was the right choice for your carsharing needs. Maybe you're still trying to figure it out yourself....Either way, I need your help taming my indecisive mind!

Not long after we moved to the District, we realized we didn't need our second car, Sparky the Saturn. To avoid the perceived hassle of selling it ourselves, and without the easy switcheroo of trading it in for another car, we took it to the nearest CarMax and left with the spare change they offered. While we're hardly in the position where we physically need two vehicles at the same time, it has happened a couple of times in the past year, and one of us has been SOL for the day - or relying on the generosity of a coworker or friend. The fact is, sometimes we still need two cars, most importantly for vet and dentist visits in the burbs, neither of which is Metro accessible or readily available to see us on a Saturday. And this post isn't to argue why my dentist and vet are still in a Red state; if I'd found an amazing gynecologist while we were out there, I'd need carsharing for yet another appointment. Point being, some doctors are worth the trouble once you find them. Now I just need help deciding which company is going to get me there....

House Fire at 1310 Monroe Street, NE

While devastating, and one of my biggest fears, luckily no one was killed in an early morning fire Saturday, July 1st. Two firemen suffered potentially serious injuries, and the three occupants are now homeless. If anyone has additional info on how we can help any of them, please let us know in the comments.