Congress Heights on the Rise

DC Sustainable Energy Utility seeking CBE General + Electrical Contractors

2012-02-12T22:30:00.000-05:00

The DC SEU is seeking interested CBE General and/or Electrical Contractors (G/EC) with experience in retrofitting Fluorescent T12 lighting fixtures to High-Performance T8 technology. For more information and to respond to the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) please visit http://dcseu.com/working_with_DCSEU/requests_for_qualifications.aspx.

The pre-bid meeting for this RFQ will be held from 11am-1pm on Thursday February 16, 2012 at the DC SEU office.

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Feb 13 | Congress Heights Community Assoc. Mtng w/ Dr. Charlene Drew Jarvis

2012-02-12T22:22:00.000-05:00

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Upcoming 11th Street Bridge Closures

2012-02-12T20:40:00.005-05:00

Off-Peak Lane Closures Possible on the 11th Street Bridges, Related Ramps, Portions of Southeast/Southwest Freeway, I-295/DC 295 And Local Streets Through Friday, April 6

Lane Closures Will Not Be Implemented Over Holiday Weekends

(Washington, D.C.) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) announced it may close lanes during off peak travel times on the 11th Street bridges, related ramps, and portions of the Southeast/Southwest Freeway, I-295/DC 295 and local streets through Friday, April 6 to accommodate 11th Street Bridge Project related construction activities.

The following off-peak lane closure is possible daily Monday through Friday from 6:30 am to 2:30 pm:

· One lane of O Street, SE between 11th and 12th Street, SE.

The following off-peak lane closure is possible daily Monday through Friday from 8 am to 2 pm:

· One lane in the eastbound direction on the Southeast/Southwest Freeway east of 6^thStreet, SE to Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.

The following off-peak lane closure is possible daily Monday through Friday from 9 am to 3 pm:

· One lane on the ramp from the outbound 11th Street bridge to southbound I-295/DC 295.

· One lane in the westbound direction on the Southeast/Southwest Freeway from Pennsylvania Avenue, SE to 4th Street, SE.

The following off-peak lane closures are possible daily Monday through Friday from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm:

· One lane in the northbound direction of I-295/DC 295 between Pennsylvania Avenue, SE and Howard Road, SE.

· Reducing Good Hope Road, SE to one lane between Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE and Anacostia Drive, SE.

· One lane of 12th Street, SE from N Street, SE to M Street, SE.

· One lane on the ramp from northbound I-295/DC 295 to the inbound 11th Street bridge.

· One lane eastbound or westbound on M Street, SE between 11th Street, SE and 12th Street, SE.

· One lane on 11th Street between M Street and I Street

The following off-peak lane closure is possible daily Monday through Friday from 10 am to 3:30pm:

· One lane in the southbound direction of I-295/DC 295 between Pennsylvania Avenue, SE and Howard Road, SE.

The following off-peak lane closure is possible each night Sunday through Thursday from 8 pm to 5 am the next morning:

· One lane in each direction of I-295/DC 295 between Pennsylvania Avenue, SE and Howard Road, SE.

· Reducing Good Hope Road, SE to one lane between Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE and Anacostia Drive, SE.

· One lane of O Street, SE between 11th and 12th Street, SE.

· One lane on the ramp from northbound I-295/DC 295 to the inbound 11th Street bridge.

· One lane on the ramp from the outbound 11th Street bridge to southbound I-295/DC 295.

· One lane in each direction of the Southeast/Southwest Freeway from Pennsylvania Avenue, SE to 4th Street, SE.

· One lane at a time in all directions at the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE and Good Hope Road, SE.

· One lane of 12th Street, SE from N Street, SE to M Street, SE.

· One lane eastbound or westbound on M Street, SE between 11th Street, SE and 12th Street, SE.

· One lane on 11th Street between M Street and I Street

The following off-peak lane closure is possible each weekend from 7 am to 3 pm, the closures may include:

· One lane of O Street, SE between 11th and 12th Street, SE.

· One lane and bicycle lane on 11th Street, SE between M Street, SE and N Street, SE.

· One lane of 12th Street, SE from O Street, SE to M Street, SE.

· One lane in each direction on the Southeast/Southwest Freeway from 6th Street, SE to Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.

· One lane eastbound or westbound on Good Hope Road, SE from Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, SE to Anacostia Drive, SE.

In the event of inclement weather or other unforeseen conditions, this work may be cancelled, rescheduled or extended as needed and an updated advisory will be distributed.

For more information about this work or the 11th Street Bridge Project, please contact DDOT Project Manager Ravindra Ganvir at 202-359-6948 visit www.ddot.dc.gov/11thStreetBridge

####

For additional traffic advisories please visit DDOT’s Traffic Alerts page or visit goDCgo.com for more information on transportation options in the District

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Requests made for BOEE investigation into Darrell Gaston campaign

2012-02-12T20:38:00.000-05:00

I wasn't going to write about this but the emails have been flying fast and furious for days requesting a BOEE investigation into the campaign of Ward 8 City Council Candidate Darrell Gaston for alleged campaign improprieties.

Email from a concerned Ward 8 resident:

Darrell Gaston

Board of Elections, Mr. Simon, and Council Member Barry,

The below forwarded email is an email following up the recommendation for Darrell Gaston's campaign be investigated, for using ANC funds and resources to manage his City Council campaign for 2012. The aforementioned email was sent to the director@dcboee.org as well as bgarner@dcboee.org, Friday 2/10/2012.

The below email sent to Mr. Gaston's campaign team specifically requests their attendance to an "all hands on deck" CAMPAIGN meeting at ANC 8B office.
(He gave address, directions and the closets metro stop, proving that he intended to meet in the ANC office space.) To my recent understanding, this is incorrect protocol for a City Council Candidate.

I am concerned about the level of brazen disregard he is showing for the rules of the city, rules of campaigning in the city, and ANC resources. Volunteers don't necessarily know the rules, but as an elected city official, it is expected that he should be minimally familiar, and or aware.

I feel that this "cheating the system" mentality during a campaign will only translate to cheating while in office. Ward 8 doesn't deserve to be taken advantage of. Our resources are far and few between and paper and ink for Mr. Gaston's campaign flyers could have been flyers for job training. Electricity used to carry on lengthy campaign meetings in 8B's office could have been used to provide emergency heat for a resident.

Please read Below. (Campaign volunteer names and email's are purposely shortened. They did nothing wrong, and aren't running for office).

This needs to be adressed,

Concerned Ward 8 resident.

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Gaston 2012 <teamgaston2012@gmail.com>
Date: Thu, Jan 19, 2012 at 10:34 AM
Subject: Campaign Meeting

Greeting Team

This monday @ January 23, 2012 will be an all hands on deck campaign meeting. The meeting will take place at my office at 1809 Savannah St SE. Suite A. Washington DC 20020. One and half block from Congress Heights Metro on the Green Line. I look forward to seeing each of you. For more information or questions please feel free to contact Campaign Manager at202.0097 or @darrellgaston.com

Thanks So Much!!!

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Natalie Williams' Statement on the Death of Whitney Houston

2012-02-12T20:20:00.005-05:00

Having trouble viewing this email? Click here

From the Committee to Elect Natalie Williams

Natalie Williams' Statement on the Death of Whitney Houston

"I Will Always Love You"

(Washington DC) Ward 8 City Council Candidate, Natalie Williams, issues the following release after the unfortunate death of Grammy Award singing extraordinaire Whitney Houston.

"Tonight, I am in complete shock and my heart is full with the news of the sudden death of songstress Whitney Houston. Today, we have lost an extraordinary entertainer and one of GOD's children.

In recent years, Whitney Houston struggled with many of life's unfortunate challenges; however, I will always remember her in the beautiful light in which she was made.   She was truly an extraordinary musical genius. Her voice was truly an instrument.

I remember vividly growing up with Whitney Houston's music during my school-aged days. As a vocal music student at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, we covered many of her songs --- only aspiring to sing it just like her. She has one of the greatest voices of all time.

Tonight, I personally thank Ms. Whitney Houston for her contribution to the world of music and the musical influence she has had on my life. As our nation mourns the death of this beloved entertainer let us remember and hold dear the following profound lyrics.

"I believe the children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside. Give them a sense of pride to make it easier. Let the children's laughter remind us how we use to be.

Everybody's searching for a hero. People need someone to look up to. I never found anyone who fulfilled my needs. A lonely place to be and so I learned to depend on me.

I decided long ago, never to walk in anyone's shadow. If I fail if I succeed at least I live as I believe. No matter what they take from me, they can't take away my dignity. Because the greatest love of all is happening to me.   I found the greatest love of all inside of me. The greatest love of all is easy to achieve.... learning to love yourself it is the greatest love of all." --- The Greatest Love of All

My prayers go out to her family, friends, and fans all across the world. Rest in Peace Ms. Whitney. I will always love you!

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This month in community meetings

2012-02-12T20:19:00.000-05:00

Monday, February 13, 2012 @ 1:00 pm

CM Barry’s Ward 8 Parks Committee Meeting

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Monday, February 13, 2012 @ 6:30 pm

Greening of Anacostia Metro Station Charrette

Matthews Memorial Church

2616 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

Washington, D.C. 20020

Wednesday, February 15, 2012 @ 6:30 pm

Greening of Anacostia Metro Station Open House

Matthews Memorial Church

2616 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

Washington, D.C. 20020

Wednesday, February 15, 2012 @ 6:30 pm

Workforce Development Council Meeting for ANCS

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Friday, February 17, 2012 @ 1:00 pm

CM Barry’s Ward 8 Arts and Culture Committee Meeting

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 @ 2:00 pm

WACIF’s Small Business Tax Planning

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 @ 6:00 pm

Ward 8 Transportation Task Force Meeting

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Thursday, February 23, 2012 @ 10:30 am

Ward 8 Environmental Council

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Thursday, February 23, 2012 @ 6:00 pm

Community Benefits Agreement Meeting

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Tuesday, February 28, 2012 @ 2:00 pm

Oxon Run Community Alliance (ORCA) Meeting

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Wednesday, February 29, 2012 @ 10:30 am

Ward 8 Education Council

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Every Tuesday at 7:00 pm

FREE Zumba Classes

Professional Building

2041 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

Washington, D.C. 20020

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A very HAPPY Hour at Big Chair Bar & Grill

2012-02-11T18:01:00.005-05:00

Downstairs Bar

Salmon burgers - yum!

$5 drinks during Happy Hour

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10-4pm, Frederick Douglass Bday Celebration in Anacostia - Heated tent!

2012-02-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

From the Friends of Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Facebook page:

Saturday we celebrate Frederick Douglass' Birthday with a day of events at Frederick Douglass NHS. The opening ceremony starts at 10:00 a.m. and is in the big heated tent. Our theme for this year's birthday is Abolition then and now. In honor of that, we are honored to have Ambassador Cdebaca, President Obama's point person in the fight against modern day slavery and human trafficking. He is a dynamic speaker. We hope you will join us.

We affectionately like to say that the Frederick Douglass Birthday is like a "3-ringed circus" because we have activiites and programs going on in a huge tent in our parking lot, in the visitor center and we will be doing tours of the house. A little something for everyone from 10 to 4 on Saturday, February 11th

We have a great Frederick Douglass Actor, Fred Morsell who will give a selection of Douglass' abolitionist speeches at 1:30 p.m. He is so good that you can imagine for a minute that Douglass has "come to life." Hope you can join us Saturday!!!

View Larger Map

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Natalie Williams produces the BEST campaign video so far

2012-02-10T19:57:00.002-05:00

You can't deny it. Ward 8 Council Candidate (and former Barry spokesperson) Natalie Williams puts out some really good campaign materials. Whether it is the music, the candidate, or the sense of community this is one motivational video. One thing we could use plenty of in Ward 8 is excitement, hope, and a positive attitude.

Is it time to make a change Ward 8?

Email: info@nataliewilliamsonline.com

Go HERE to make a campaign donation!

"Time to Make A Change" from natalie williams on Vimeo.

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Today at 1 - 3pm: "Baubles For Books" Fundraiser for school library

2012-02-10T11:49:00.000-05:00

Baubles For Books:

Fundraiser For Building For The Future Academy School Library

Come Shop for Jewelry by Stella and Dot

with Personal Stylist Karen Curtis

Between the Hours of 1:00-3:00 p.m.

on February 10, 2012

Anacostia Professional Building

2041 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE

Suite M1

Washington, DC 20020

Preview The Jewelry:

www.stelladot.com/KarenCurtis

Unable To Attend? Place Your Order Online and Select Monica Livingston as Your Hostess
Questions? Please Contact Karen Curtis at (202) 455-6987

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.

Natalie Williams "Fit to Run" Official Campaign Rally and Speech

2012-02-09T23:28:00.002-05:00

"Fit to Run"
Official Campaign Rally and Speech
Click Here to View Video

"Let My People Go!"

Official Announcement Speech (Full Text)

Delivered by: Natalie Williams, Ward 8 City Council Candidate

"Thank you so very much for the kind words spoken here today by all of you, and the wonderful introduction by my daughter, Nyela Williams. She is truly an example of what our young kids grow to be when we invest in them. And I thank her for being such a beautiful young lady.

I thank my Bishop, Bishop Hudson of Matthews Memorial Baptist Church for being here today and believing in my candidacy. I thank Pastor Holebrook from Delaware Baptist Church for his support and willingness to open his doors so that we may gather. I thank my campaign chairman, Mr. Bruce Holmes, and my entire campaign team for just being so awesome. We are a small team, but we are a mighty team. I say thank you for making me look so good.

Today, I thank all of you who participated in the "Fit to Run". It was important for me to take our campaign to the streets as we kickoff our field operations plan this week. Our goal is to travel to every corner of this Ward to spread our message of empowerment, advancement, and prosperity.

And certainly, I thank GOD for giving me the strength each day and for allowing me to be all that I am --- and allowing me to stand before you as the next City Councilwoman of Ward 8.

There is a familiar story in the Bible that I believe truly captures the day and time in which we, Ward 8 residents, are finding ourselves living in - as well as my run to represent my fellow neighbors here in Ward 8. African American history has drawn significant parallel to the story of Moses and the Israelites because the Israelites, just as our ancestors, were held in captivity for over 400 years. Please allow me a moment to set the stage for the sole purpose of getting my message across to you.

The story of Moses and the Israelites

You see ... Moses was ordered by GOD to lead the people out of captivity from under the leadership of King Pharaoh. You see, under King Pharaoh's leadership the people were dying - literally and figuratively. They were drowning because instead of King Pharaoh giving to the people, he took from them. He held them back by not providing them with the needed materials and necessary tools to survive. GOD said to Moses that he had seen the misery of the people; he had heard their cries, and he was very concerned. He called upon Moses to go to where the people were being held captive and free them of their suffering.

The story goes on to say that with deep hesitation and fear, Moses questioned GOD by asking "who am I?" to go and speak with the King and to challenge him on his rule. GOD replied to Moses saying go forth ... that he would empower him along the way by performing many miracles through him. GOD told Moses that the blessings would come to him and the people in an "unfamiliar" package - meaning it would be something that he had never seen before. Moses didn't believe until GOD killed Pharaoh's son, which in my opinion symbolizes the hopes and dreams of a better Ward 8 having to be realized by the killing of something dear to Pharaoh. As a result, with the strength of

GOD and a belief, Moses went toe-to-toe with King Pharaoh shouting "Let My People Go."

Now, before I go any further let me say. Councilman Barry is not King Pharaoh, but has a similar rule over the people. And I am not Moses, but my decision to run was met with the same deep consideration and even some fear as that of Moses. So in that regard, I draw significant parallel to this story between Councilman Marion Barry, the residents of Ward 8, and myself.

I am like Moses in that I have heard the many cries of the people, and GOD spoke to my heart and said use what you've been equipped with to serve your community and I will be there to help you along the way. And the residents, which include my daughter and I, are like the Israelites. We hold an allegiance to a man who has been ruler over our land, thus ourselves, and have been willing to bury our hopes, dreams, and aspirations so that he may be able to, figuratively speaking, continue to live. And how do we do that? By continuing to vote for mediocre representation.

Like Moses... Who am I?

I am simply a resident of Ward 8 with a thought that our community should be better than what it is today. And I am running for Ward 8 City Council in hopes of fulfilling that dream by changing the condition of my own existence as a single-mother living in Ward 8, while at the same time changing the condition of our community and enhancing the lives of my 74,000 neighbors.

My inspiration to seek elected office is birthed out of a passion of listening and working on behalf of the people. For twelve years, I traveled all across the United States telling the stories of our world, our communities, and our people as a news journalist. As a result, I took a special interest in improving the quality of life of individuals and began working as a top aide to elected officials who represent our nation's urban cities. It is through these combined experiences that I have come face to face with the needs and challenges of our communities, and the role of legislators to ensure that they are met and addressed.

My life's work led me here to Washington DC where I have been fortunate to work alongside some of Washington DC's top elected officials and leaders. I was inspired to seek elected office in Ward 8 because it is where my personal love and connectivity to people lie. Over the years, as the spokesperson for our current ward 8 councilmember, I have had a front row seat into the operations and management of our Ward, and have unfortunately, drawn the conclusion that the place where I call home not only deserves better ... we want better. I have had the opportunity to meet longtime residents, and those who are new to our Ward, and they have overwhelmingly expressed loud and clear that they are ready for a change in leadership. I am that change. I am a real choice for carrying the torch into the next phase of empowerment, advancement, and prosperity of our Ward. And, I am the only candidate with a real chance to win against the legendary incumbent.

Back to the Basics

Now, Folks always ask what are you going to do differently than what's being done now. It is at this point where most candidates get stuck and begin promising lofty deliverables which will undoubtedly come back to bite them. When this happens, it's merely a set up for disappointment for the constituents and the candidate down the road. My reply to this question is always the same and within reach --- "I am going to work - to empower, uplift, and advance our community."

It is important that we go back to the basics, and begin to infuse hope and energy back into our people. Far too long, we have been told that we are the last, the least, the forgotten. This repeated message to our residents has been embedded into the mindsets of our people to the point where they begin to believe that that is who they truly are. My message to all of Ward 8 is to not let your circumstances and your environment determine who you are and where you are going. Together, we are a smart people. We are a resilient people. We have hopes. We have dreams. The difference between deserving better, and wanting better is that deserve leads us to a feeling of entitlement, while wanting makes of active participants in seeking and achieving our goals.

As I traveled our Ward and talked with our residents several key matters surface immediately, 1) Public Safety, 2) Education, 3) Employment and Training, 4) Affordable Housing, both rental and purchase, and 5) Healthcare.

I intend to use my skills and resources as a professional communicator and strategic planner to first create a working group of residents and professionals around each of these areas. I will work with each of these groups to develop both a strategic/action plan and a marketing/ communications plan in order to a) clearly isolate and address the root causes of each of these issues, b) identify resources both public and private to work on these issues, and c) create a community-based working group to provide ongoing coordination and implementation of our efforts. Given that we are in the Nation's Capitol, I would encourage, and in some cases insist on, Federal Government support in assisting us in moving our plan forward. I would work to ensure that all of our programs and efforts serve as examples and models across the country.

I will work towards the creation of stronger collaboration initiatives amongst service and training providers. Develop better communication systems between Ward leaders and their respective constituency. Work with existing community organizations to strengthen existing programs and to identify new possibilities for the betterment of respective neighborhoods in particular and the Ward in general. Moreover, I would work with my colleagues on the City Council to create legislation, and provide extensive oversight over existing legislation, that will help to reduce poverty, reduce crime, provide jobs, reduce the recidivism rate, reduce the HIV/AIDS rate, and address the issue of homelessness and single motherhood in the city and in the Ward.

Socially, I would use the office of the City Council to build relationships across our Ward. It would be my intent to foster on-going activities aimed at bringing neighborhoods together, highlighting the hopes, dreams and aspirations of our residents, and creating a "yes we can" atmosphere throughout the Ward. It would be my intent to sponsor events that bring the residents out, encourage success amongst the young people, and support the elderly in the Ward. I would also ensure that we don't leave out the disabled and those who are mentally challenged. I want our Ward and its residents to feel a sense of oneness and exhibit the attributes of what a wholesome and thriving community represents.

Politically, I would work collaboratively with the Ward 8 Democrats to increase the numbers of members in our party organization. I will work with our two high schools to make sure that our students are involved in civic engagement opportunities and voter registration. I will commit to monthly dialogues with our residents giving personal face-to-face meetings in various neighborhoods across the Ward.

Culturally, I would work with existing arts and humanity organizations in finding out what are their more pressing needs. I would use the office of the City Council to identify resources both government and private sector to strengthen and expand our existing arts and music programs in the schools and in the community.

Economically, I would promote the existence of our Hub Zones, Enterprise Zones and Empowerment Zones in the Ward. I would highlight the benefits that these entities have and encourage the development and growth of small businesses utilizing these avenues created for economic development. I will call for a balanced approached on providing social services versus economic opportunities.

Now, specifically for my single mothers of the Ward. Let me say this -- I personally know first hand the challenges that we face on a day-to-day basis. I don't have to tell you, but its hard work being the mother, the father, the doctor, the teacher, the counselor, the disciplinary ...and the list goes on and on. Most days we wonder -- "How are we going to make it". But I know you agree with me when I say that at the end of the day, the smiles on our babies faces is worth all the sacrifices in the world.

For those of us who are getting public assistance now to make ends me - you should know that that will come to an end within a 5 years period...this according to TANF officials. Today, I urge my fellow single mothers to begin taking the necessary steps now to care for your babies tomorrow. We must begin now to prepare for tomorrow --- that day sure to come.

As your sister in motherhood and your next Councilwoman, I ask that you stand with me so that I can fight for the future of our children. I commit to developing programs that would assist you with the basic necessities today and at the expiration of your government support. We've got to be able to take care of our babies. And that is my commitment to you!

Closing Thoughts

The story of Moses and the Israelites ends by Moses telling the children of Israelites to put blood over top of their doors so that the death angel would pass them by. In our case, I would ask for the residents of Ward 8 to signal their and their children's desires to live, by casting your vote for me on April 3, 2012.

Our Ward has the highest rates of social pathology there is. We have the lowest rate of those indicators which represent positive growth and responsible development, both human capital and bricks and mortar. All of those running for the Council seat, including Marion Barry, have had many years between them to address these inequities. Every last one of them ... except for me. I believe that I am the real choice and I am the only candidate with a real chance to change the direction of our Ward.

In return, it is my promise to ALL WARD 8 voters that I will never take your vote or your voice for granted. And that together, we will work for a better, brighter, and more hopeful Ward 8.

Thank you.

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Tonight's artist presentation for Anacostia public art project rescheduled

2012-02-09T17:57:00.001-05:00

With all the guest blogging I wasn't able to post this sooner. Please spread the word.

REMINDER: The meeting scheduled for tonight has been postponed until next Thursday, February 16th.

The updated meeting details are:

· Artist Presentation for 1201-1203 Good Hope Rd. SE Public Art Installation

6:30-7:30pm

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Department of Housing and Community Development

1800 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE, Room 318 (Good Hope Rd. entrance, third floor)

Washington, DC 20020

As planned, the DC Commission on Arts and Humanities will present the artist who was selected to create the totem pole at 1201-1203 Good Hope Road SE. He will seek feedback on the design and establish opportunities for community engagement.

We look forward to seeing you on the 16th!

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Volunteers needed this Saturday for Frederick Douglass Bday Celebration

2012-02-09T13:58:00.001-05:00

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED THIS SATURDAY!!!
2/11/12
AN ALL DAY EVENT!!!

The Frederick Douglass Birthday Celebration will be held, Saturday, February 11th.
Please call the park at (202) 426-5961 for more information.

Go HERE for a list of events and to learn more about the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.

Frederick Douglass birthday celebration this Saturday at 10am!

2012-02-09T13:44:00.002-05:00

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site News Release

Release date: Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Contact: Julie Kutruff, Eastern District Manager, 202-426-5961

Celebrate Frederick Douglass’ 194^th Birthday

Washington, D.C. — Come celebrate with the National Park Service (NPS), the 194^th birthday of Frederick Douglass on Saturday, February 11, 2012, at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site (NHS). The program begins at 10:00 a.m. and concludes at 4:00 p.m. The Frederick Douglass NHS is located at 1411 W Street, S.E. The event is free and open to the public.

Frederick Douglass’ birthday will be celebrated with period music by “Washington Revels” and a reenactment of the great orator, by actor Fred Morsell. Morsell has also performed as Frederick Douglass in the CBS Bicentennial production, “We, The Women,” as well as at Harpers Ferry and Women’s Rights National Historic Parks, and Gettysburg National Military Park. Take part in a spirited discussion on Frederick Douglass, moderated by Edna Greene Medford, Professor of History Ph.D. Dr. Medford specializes in nineteenth-century African American history. There will also be a live broadcast from New Bedford Whaling National Historic Site. Douglass lived in the Massachusetts seaside town after his escape from slavery.

During the opening ceremony that begins at 10:00 a.m., Ambassador Luis CdeBaca will deliver keynote remarks to commemorate the great nineteenth-century activist. Ambassador CdeBaca was appointed by President Obama to coordinate U.S. government activities in the global fight against contemporary forms of slavery. Also, the winning students of the Frederick Douglass NHS’s oratorical contest will receive recognition of their accomplishments and will recite their award winning Frederick Douglass’ speeches.

Born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in 1818, Frederick Douglass escaped to spend his life fighting for justice and equality for all people. His tireless struggle, brilliant words, and inclusive vision of humanity continue to inspire and sustain people today. For more information, please visit www.nps.gov/frdo/

Frederick Douglass NHS is one of several park sites that make up National Capital Parks-East (NCP-East). NCP-East offers a wide array of historic, cultural, and recreational areas that are part of Washington, D.C. and its eastern environs. The park is comprised of over 8,000 acres of federal land, ranging from community parks and National Historic Sites to unique wetland ecosystems, meadows, and mature hardwood forests.

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Local Author Marcus A. White

2012-02-09T01:14:00.001-05:00

Pick up your copy of Marcus White's books this month at Fireside Restaurant in Anacostia.

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Ward 8 City Council Candidate Sandra "S.S." Seegars: "Incorruptible"

2012-02-08T00:05:00.000-05:00

Jacque Patterson and Natalie Williams have had their turn as guest bloggers and last but certainty not least is Ward 8 Council Candidate Sandra Seegars. To learn more about Sandra or to make a contribution to her campaign you can reach her at (202) 561-1017. You don't have to be a democrat or even a Ward 8 resident to be a Ward 8 supporter. Now enjoy! Be sure to post your questions or comments for the candidates in their post.

###

SANDRA "SS" SEEGARS

Web: *

Facebook: SS For Ward 8

Twitter: *

Email: ComSSeegarsANC8E@aol.com

Phone: (202) 561-1017

*Will update when information has been provided

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Ward 8 City Council Candidate Natalie Williams: "Let My People Go"

2012-02-07T00:06:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we heard from Jacque Patterson, today our guest blogger is Ward 8 Council Candidate Natalie Williams. To learn more about Natalie visit her campaign website and if you are so inspired please make a much needed donation to Natalie's campaign HERE. You don't have to be a democrat or even a Ward 8 resident to be a Ward 8 supporter. UP Next: Sandra Seegars

Today's Blogger: Natalie Williams

There is a familiar story in the Bible that I believe truly captures the day and time in which we, Ward 8 residents, are finding ourselves living in – as well as my run to represent my fellow neighbors here in Ward 8. African American history has drawn significant parallel to the story of Moses and the Israelites because the Israelites, just as our ancestors, were held in captivity for over 400 years. Please allow me a moment to set the stage for this article for the sole purpose of getting my message across to you.

The story of Moses and the Israelites

Here we go! Moses was ordered by GOD to lead the people out of captivity from under the leadership of King Pharaoh. You see, under King Pharaoh’s leadership the people were dying – literally and figuratively. They were drowning because instead of King Pharaoh giving to the people, he took from them. He held them back by not providing them with the needed materials and necessary tools to survive. GOD said to Moses that he had seen the misery of the people; he had heard their cries, and he was very concerned. He called upon Moses to go to where the people were being held captive and free them of their suffering.

The story goes on to say that with deep hesitation and fear, Moses questioned GOD by asking “who am I?” to go and speak with the King and to challenge him on his rule. GOD replied to Moses saying go forth ... that he would empower him along the way by performing many miracles through him. GOD told Moses that the blessings would come to him and the people in an “unfamiliar” package – meaning it would be something that he had never seen before. Moses didn’t believe until GOD killed Pharaoh’s son, which in my opinion symbolizes the hopes and dreams of a better Ward 8 having to be realized by the killing of something dear to Pharaoh. As a result, with the strength of GOD and a belief, Moses went toe-to-toe with King Pharaoh shouting "Let My People Go.”

Councilman Barry is like Pharaoh, in that, he will not let the people go despite being ineffective in addressing the social ills of our community, and advancing the people of our Ward so that they may break free and become self-reliant. I am like Moses in that I have heard the many cries of the people, and GOD spoke to my heart and said use what you’ve been equipped with to serve your community and I will be there to help you along the way. And the residents, which include my daughter and I, are like the Israelites. We hold an allegiance to a man who has been ruler over our land, thus ourselves, and have been willing to bury our hopes, dreams, and aspirations so that he may be able to, figuratively speaking, continue to live.

Like Moses... Who am I?

My inspiration to seek elected office is birthed out of a passion of listening and working on behalf of the people. For twelve years, I traveled all across the United States telling the stories of our world, our communities, and our people as a news journalist. As a result, I took a special interest in improving the quality of life of individuals and began working as a top aide to elected officials who represent our nation’s urban cities. It is through these combined experiences that I have come face to face with the needs and challenges of our communities, and the role of legislators to ensure that they are met and addressed.

My life’s work led me here to Washington DC where I have been fortunate to work alongside some of Washington DC’s top elected officials and leaders. I was inspired to seek elected office in Ward 8 because it is where my personal love and connectivity to people lie. Over the years, as the spokesperson for our current ward 8 councilmember, I have had a front row seat into the operations and management of our Ward, and have unfortunately, drawn the conclusion that the place where I call home not only deserves better ... we want better. I have had the opportunity to meet longtime residents, and those who are new to our Ward, and they have overwhelmingly expressed loud and clear that they are ready for a change in leadership. I am that change. I am a real choice for carrying the torch into the next phase of empowerment, advancement, and prosperity of our Ward. I am the only candidate with a real chance to win against the legendary incumbent.

Back to the Basics

Folks always ask what are you going to do differently than what’s being done now. It is at this point where most candidates get stuck and begin promising lofty deliverables which will undoubtedly come back to bite them. When this happens, it’s merely a set up for disappointment for the constituents and the candidate down the road. My reply to this question is always the same and within reach --- “I am going to work - to empower, uplift, and advance our community.”

It is important that we go back to the basics, and begin to infuse hope and energy back into our people. Far too long, we have been told that we are the last, the least, the forgotten. This repeated message to our residents has been embedded into the mindsets of our people to the point where they begin to believe that that is who they truly are. My message to all of Ward 8 is to not let your circumstances and your environment determine who you are and where you are going. Together, we are a smart people. We are a resilient people. We have hopes. We have dreams. The difference between deserving better, and wanting better is that deserve leads us to a feeling of entitlement, while wanting makes of active participants in seeking and achieving our goals.

I intend to use my skills and resources as a professional communicator and strategic planner to first create a working group of residents and professionals around each of the areas identified above. I will work with each of these groups to develop both a strategic/action plan and a marketing/ communications plan in order to a) clearly isolate and address the root causes of each of these issues, b) identify resources both public and private to work on these issues, and c) create a community-based working group to provide ongoing coordination and implementation of our

efforts. Given that we are in the Nation’s Capitol, I would encourage, and in some cases insist on, Federal Government support in assisting us in moving our plan forward. I would work to ensure that all of our programs and efforts serve as examples and models across the country.

Socially, I would use the office of the City Council to build relationships across our Ward. It would be my intent to foster on-going activities aimed at bringing neighborhoods together, highlighting the hopes, dreams and aspirations of our residents, and creating a “yes we can” atmosphere throughout the Ward. It would be my intent to sponsor events that bring the residents out, encourage success amongst the young people, and support the elderly in the Ward. I would also ensure that we don’t leave out the disabled and those who are mentally challenged. I want our Ward and its residents to feel a sense of oneness and exhibit the attributes of what a wholesome and thriving community represents.

Closing Thoughts

The story of Moses and the Israelites ends by Moses telling the children of Israelites to put blood over top of their doors so that the death angel would pass them by. In our case, I would ask for the residents of Ward 8 to signal their and their children’s desires to live, by casting your vote for me on April 3, 2012.

Our Ward has the highest rates of social pathology there is. We have the lowest rate of those indicators which represent positive growth and responsible development, both human capital and bricks and mortar. All of those running for the Council seat, including the incumbent, have had many years between them to address these inequities, except for me. I believe that I am the real choice and have the only real chance to change the direction of our Ward.

In return, it is my promise to the Ward 8 voters that I will never take your vote or your voice for granted. And that together, we will work for a better, brighter, and more hopeful Ward 8.

NATALIE WILLIAMS

Go HERE to learn about Natalie!

Web: www.nataliewilliamsonline.com

Twitter: @dccouncil8

Facebook: Natalie Williams for Ward 8 Council

Email: info@nataliewilliamsonline.com

Go HERE to make a campaign donation!

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.

Feb 9 | Artist Presentation for 1201-1203 Good Hope Rd SE

2012-02-06T23:25:00.001-05:00

Dear Team,

We want to remind you that the artist who was selected to create the totem pole at 1201-1203 Good Hope Road SE will present his project to the community next Thursday. He will seek feedback on the design and establish opportunities for community engagement. Immediately following the presentation, the Arts Subcommittee will meet to coordinate upcoming projects and discuss ideas for future projects. Here are the meeting details:

·         Artist Presentation for 1201-1203 Good Hope Rd. SE Public Art Installation

6:30-7:30pm

·         Arts Subcommittee Meeting (Ward 8 Beautification Project)

7:30-8:30pm

Thursday, February 9, 2012

DHCD Housing Resource Center

1800 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave SE (Corner Entrance)

Washington, DC 20020

Also, if you have not yet signed up to participate in one of the three subcommittees, please indicate your choice in a reply to this email. The three subcommittees are:

·         Mentoring / Employment

·         Gardening / Landscaping

·         Arts

Many thanks, and hope to see you next Thursday!

Darnetta K. Tyus, Special Assistant
Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
Government of the District of Columbia
1350 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Suite 317, Washington, DC 20004
W 202-442-7165   Fax 202-645-6727  darnetta.tyus@dc.gov

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WCP | What LUMEN8Anacostia Will Occupy

2012-02-06T23:21:00.001-05:00

Go HERE to read the full article by Alex Bacca.

Excerpt:

ARCH Director of Economic Development and Marketing Nikki Peele says that all artists will preferably be set up in their spaces by April 6, but have an absolute deadline of April 14. That's the date of the LUMEN8 festival, which will coincide with a Pink Line Project-sponsored party in the largest of available spaces, a warehouse on Shannon Place SE. They can use the spaces for about two months, or until ARCH finds a more permanent tenant.

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EotR Mag | Anacostia's Arts District has ambitious plans for LUMEN8Anacostia

2012-02-06T23:17:00.001-05:00

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Ward 8 Council Candidate Jacque Patterson: "What are you looking for in your next Ward 8 Councilmember?"

2012-02-06T00:02:00.000-05:00

Today's guest post is written by Ward 8 Council Candidate Jacque Patterson, Sr. To learn more about Jacque visit his campaign website. If you are so inspired you can make a much needed donation to his campaign HERE. You don't have to be a democrat or Ward 8 resident to be a Ward 8 supporter.

Today's Blogger: Jacque Patterson

Given the opportunity to be a guest blogger on Congress Heights on the Rise grants me a rare opportunity to turn the table from being the interviewee as a candidate for public office to becoming an interviewer of the residents of Ward 8. And I think I’ll be a pretty easy interviewer, as I only have one question for Ward 8 Democratic voters, “What are you looking for in your next Ward 8 Councilmember?”

I thought about that one question long and hard because it’s the same question I asked myself before I decided to run for the Ward 8 Council seat in the April 3^rd Primary Election. Because at the end of the day, I’m not only a candidate, I’m a resident, a neighbor and a voter in the Ward we share. My future is tied to your future.

When I look at it from the perspective of being part of something bigger than being an individual candidate, I see the community first and my candidacy second.

When I think about answering the question I’m asking you, since I am part of your community too, I start to answer it by saying I want a candidate who has shown they possess the professional skills to be an effective councilmember. We all know Ward 8 has been fed more rhetoric than results for years now. I would vote for a candidate who has a similar public service record as my own, which includes bringing the KIPP Public Charter School Campus to the Hillsdale neighborhood, the Higher Achievement After-School program to Anacostia, the experience of playing a role in every affordable housing development project currently under construction in our Ward, and has actually helped residents who are suffering under the current economic recession by saving their homes from foreclosure. A candidate without a list of accomplishments couldn’t win my vote.

I’d like my next councilmember to show that they could bring consensus amongst the various views and visions of the Ward. Lord knows, if there is one thing we do well as a community, it’s disagree on just about everything. But if a candidate hasn’t proven by holding leadership positions in the past that they can execute a vision, how are they going to be able to do it as a councilmember? If a candidate hasn’t been effective in running their respective Advisory Neighborhood Commission or winning a leadership position, is he/she realistically ready to tangle with seasoned elected councilmembers currently exploiting the ineffectiveness of our current councilmember? To get my vote, I want you to have not only been an ANC, I would want you to have been as productive as I was as chair of ANC 8B. During my tenure, we brought the Andrews Federal Credit Union to the corner of Alabama and Stanton Road SE; we worked hand in glove with the developers of the Giant/IHOP Development and THEARC facility. Instead of spending money on cell phones and other personal items, we gave out more grants to worthy non-profits than has been given in the Ward by any other ANC. It’s easy to show up, hype up residents concerned about a community issue through grandstanding public relations tactics, but how are you going to change the situation? Answer that question first, before I cast a ballot for you.

I’d like my next councilmember to understand how crafting public policy works. I doubt that any of us would allow a doctor to operate on us if that doctor had not graduated from medical school. So why expect less of a councilmember, who is equally tasked with life or death decisions when it comes to the future of our Ward, as they attempt to properly perform oversight of major government operations. How underserved have we been in the past by candidates and elected officials who, although well intended and passionate about community concerns, were ineffective? I’d expect my next councilmember to have a degree in public administration, possibly be a certified public manager and having attended a Senior Executives in Local and State Government program at JFK School of Government at Harvard would set that candidate head and shoulders above candidates who lack professional training in public service. Those are exactly the educational programs I took in preparation for a career in public service. I knew public service was not something I could one day wake up with an epiphany and desire to be an elected official, but something I’d have to train for with the same seriousness of a person wanting to become a surgeon.

And is it asking too much for a candidate to conduct him/herself in a manner that improves the image of Ward 8. Not saying the candidate has to be perfect, but could they include in their formal responsibilities of Councilmember, the unspoken expectation of role model to what we’d want our children to aspire to be. Ethical behavior, service before self, integrity, moral character. I’d like the candidate to at least strive to embody these personal characteristics, even as I acknowledge in my own efforts as a husband, father and civic advocate, I’ve made mistakes.

Lastly, but most importantly, as a resident of Ward 8, I’m looking for a candidate with a plan to transform the quality of life in our Ward. While there is no way any one plan could encompass everything that ever yone wants, it does have to touch on some of the most pressing issues confronting our communities. Each of the other candidates are great people in their own right. I take nothing away from their desire to serve Ward 8, but I have to be honest as a voter and question their readiness to serve in the highest elected office of our Ward. I found it very difficult to see in any one candidate, the qualities I listed above. That’s why I asked the very same question I asked you at the top of the blog, of myself, “What are you looking for in your next Ward 8 Councilmember?” And being unable to confidently cast a vote for the incumbent or the other candidates, decided to run for the office myself. Our community concerns are too important to continue on the same course or to allow unqualified candidates to win office.

As I change back from being a blogger to a candidate, I’d like to leave you with my “8for8” platform.

Patterson “8for8” Platform

1. Lowering Unemployment 5. Strengthening Families

2. Generating Economic Development 6. Addressing Seniors/Elders Concerns

3. Advocating for Education Reform 7. Improving Public Transportation

4. Alleviating Public Safety Concerns 8. Developing Affordable Housing

Since the Advoc8te has been more than accommodating with space, I won’t go into each one here, but will ask you to go to my web site www.pattersonforward8.com to read more about the details to change the way of life in Ward 8. Thank you for opportunity to use this venue to serve our Ward!

JACQUE PATTERSON

Go HERE to learn about Jacque!

Web: www.pattersonforward8.com

Twitter: @jacque4dc

Facebook: Jacque Patterson for Ward 8 City Council

Email: jacquedpatterson@gmail.com

Go HERE to make a campaign donation!

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.

In Pictures | LUMEN8Anacostia temporium site tour hosted by ARCH Development Corporation

2012-02-05T14:39:00.003-05:00

Visit www.eatshopliveanacostia.com for photos of yesterday's tour through Anacostia and to learn more about the LUMEN8Anacostia project.

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.

Feb 21 | Ward 8 Transportation Task Force Meeting

2012-02-05T12:46:00.003-05:00

Tuesday, February 21, 2012 @ 6 pm

CM Barry’s SE Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.

Feb 23 | Ward 8 Community Benefits Agreement Seminar

2012-02-05T12:44:00.001-05:00

Ward 8 Community Benefits Agreement Seminar

Thursday, February 23, 2012 @ 6 pm

CM Barry’s Southeast Office

2100 MLK Jr. Avenue, S.E.

3^rd Floor Conference Room

Washington, D.C. 20020

Please join Bishop C. Matthew Hudson and James Bunn of Congress Heights Main Streets as we learn the significance of a Community Benefits Agreement.

Definition:

A Community Benefits Agreement ("CBA") in the USA is acontract signed by community groups and a real estate developer that requires the developer to provide specific amenities and/or mitigations to the local community or neighborhood. In exchange, the community groups agree to publicly support the project, or at least not oppose it. Often, negotiating a CBA relies heavily upon the formation of a multi-issue, broad based community coalition including community, environmental, faith-based and labor organizations.

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Greening America's Capital | The Anacostia Metro Station

2012-02-05T12:40:00.000-05:00

The District of Columbia was recently selected as one of five capital cities to receive the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s, Greening America’s Capitals technical design assistance to help green the public spaces surrounding theAnacostia Metro Station.

WHEN?

February 13th 6:30pm to 8pm

Project Introduction

February 15th 12:30pm to 2pm

Open House

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Laine Cidlowski Office of Planning

Tel. 202.442.8809 laine.cidlowski@dc.gov

PLEASE JOIN US IN DRAFTING PUBLIC SPACE DESIGNS THAT:

WHERE?

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

2616 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave, SE

Connect the metro station to neighborhood assets

Make the area safer for pedestrians and bicyclists

Better manage local stormwater runoff

Complement development projects in the community

To attend all or part of this event, please RSVP online or to john.heermans@dc.gov

To submit an article or to inquire about advertising send an email to Advoc8te@congressheightsontherise.com.