Volunteers needed for free tax preparation

Tax season will soon be here and volunteers are needed to help low- and moderate-income DC residents benefit from tax credits and at the same time avoid paying to have their local and federal taxes prepared.   Two opportunities have already presented themselves if you are interested in volunteering:

• The DC EITC Campaign is recruiting hundreds of volunteers for the upcoming tax season:   Volunteer positions include tax preparers, savings promoters and language interpreters.   Contact Adam Perry -- aperry (at) caab (dot) org -- for more information.
• Greater DC Cares, IRS and Howard University Partnership for tax prep:   These organizations have teamed up to help prepare taxes for low income residents of Petworth, Park View and the Pleasant Plains.   Volunteers will receive training from professional accountants who are dedicating their skills to help during their busiest time of year.   Shifts are Tuesday, Thursday evening and Fridays during the day starting in mid-January.   For more information email Sherman Taylor at sjtaylor (dot) 10 (at) gmail (dot) com.

What the DCPS satisfaction survey can tell us about school safety in Ward 1

It should come as no surprise that where you go to school can color how you think about things.   This is the case when it comes to school safety.

Nearly 20,000 parents, students, faculty, and staff participated in a SY 2008-2009 DCPS/Westat school satisfaction survey whose purpose was to identify areas of improvement and to use as an accountability and progress measure.   Areas asked about included safety, family and community engagement, leadership, and teaching and learning.   The report compares findings from the SY 2007-2008 survey.

Violence is unfortunately an issue for too many of DC's youth.   How young people think about school safety, then, is important.   A comparison of the citywide and Ward 1 secondary school findings is shown in the table below.   The good news is that students in three of the four secondary schools in Ward 1 feel safe in their schools.   The not-so-good news is these same Banneker, Columbia Heights Ed and Shaw students do not feel as safe out of school as they do in school, particularly when compared with their peers across the city.   Of course, the Cardozo results are not a surprise.   We owe it to all students to improve safety in and around schools, particularly those who are most threatened.

What we -- school stakeholders, elected and appointed officials, advocates, students -- do with this survey information and real life experience is the question.   There are very real public policy and practice challenges associated with "fixing" this problem.   Some in the community advocate for law and order kinds of solutions while others seek solutions that are less punitive and more in the rehabilitative and supportive realms.   No matter which solutions are chosen, the public should use the survey results as DCPS plans to:   to assess progress and identify areas of improvement.

DCPS is reporting the results in a variety of ways.   Users can find citywide reports as well as summaries for elementary and secondary schools.   DCPS is also reporting results by school:

• Bancroft Elementary
• Benjamin Banneker
• Bruce Monroe Elementary
• Cardozo
• Cleveland Elementary
• Columbia Heights Education Campus
• H.D. Cooke Elementary
• Fillmore Arts Center in Raymond Elementary
• Reed LC
• Shaw Middle
• Tubman Elementary

Free legal advice clinic/asesoría legal gratis - January 9

The next free legal advice clinic sponsored by the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program is being held on Saturday, January 9, 2010 from 10:00 am - Noon.   Bread for the City is hosting the clinic -- at two locations:

• 1525 7th Street, NW (Green Line to Shaw/Howard University)
• 1640 Good Hope Road, SE (Green Line to Anacostia, Bus B2 or W6)

Details about the clinics are in the fliers, below, in English and Spanish.

Free Legal Clinic Jan 2010 English

ASESORÍALEGALJan2010

Help save the Anacostia and save yourself a nickel

Remember, starting January 1, 2010, District businesses selling food or alcohol must charge 5 cents for every disposable paper or plastic carry-out bag.

Five cents here and there adds up; save these nickels by bringing with your own bags.   The District government along with Safeway and CVS are giving away reusable shopping bags as part of the "Skip the Bag, Save the River" campaign.   To learn more about the new bag law, and DDOE's efforts to clean up the Anacostia River, visit the Skip the Bag, Save the River Web site.

Pedestrian and other improvements coming soon to Mt. Pleasant

Good news from Mount Pleasant Main Street:   MPMS has been awarded $243,000 to make much-needed improvements in public space in Mt. Pleasant.   Pedestrian, bicycle and landscaping amenity improvements in Lamont Park and along Mount Pleasant Street, NW will be made.   People can expect to see lighting, benches, a crosswalk, trees, signage and share-the-road arrows for cyclists.

The improvements are based on previous studies involving community input from residents, businesses, and neighborhood organizations.   But there is still plenty of opportunity for residents, businesses, and others to weigh in as the scope and details of the work are finalized.   Construction will take place in 2010.

The funding comes from the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and more information about the grant is online -- visit DDOT's Transportation Enhancement Projects.

For more information about MPMS -- a volunteer-driven neighborhood non-profit, founded in 1991 that works with businesses, residents, government, and other community organizations to promote sensible economic development, enhance the quality-of-life of community residents, and foster a dynamic and pleasant commercial corridor -- visit their Web site.

Mentoring Works2 holiday party postponed

Due to forecast of snow this weekend, Mentoring Works2, Inc. has rescheduled its 2nd Annual Christmas Banquet.   Rather than celebrating on December 19, the fete will take place on January 16, 2010 from 7:00 - 11:00 pm at the Thurgood Marshall Building, 1816 12th Street, NW.

Make Saturdays spectacular at Park View Rec

This just in from Greater DC Cares:

A team of talented young people have put together an exciting set of programs under the guidance of the manager of the Park View Recreation Center to start on Saturday, January 9, 2010.   You can help turn the recreation center into a beacon of light in a neighborhood that is undergoing rapid changes.   To get involved, email Katie Delaney, katsdelaney [AT] gmail [DOT] com.

Ward 1 unemployment up slightly in October 2009

According to data from the Department of Employment Services, unemployment in Ward 1 increased from September to October 2009 -- from 10.1% to 10.4%.   While the increase is statistically insignificant, try telling that to people who are not working.

Save the Date: Del. Norton's Tax Fair, February 2010

On February 27, 2010, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton will once again hold her Annual Tax and Information Fair at the Washington Convention Center.

The highlight of the fair is the free preparation of taxes for DC residents.   Residents will have to bring photo identification, social security cards, their 2008 tax return, and appropriate forms such as W-2s and 1098 or 1099.   More information will be available online next year.

City Council hearings/roundtables

Upcoming City Council events include:

• The Performance of the HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Administration:   The Committee on Health (CM Catania, At-large, chair) is holding this public oversight roundtable on December 17 at 10:00 am.   The purpose of this roundtable is to review the performance of the HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and Tuberculosis Administration (HAHSTA) in facilitating and monitoring the delivery of HIV/AIDS services to District residents.   The roundtable is open to the public but only invited witnesses will be permitted to provide oral statements.   Public comments are encouraged in writing; details about submitting comments and the roundtable are in the hearing notice.
• Utility Reliability in the District of Columbia public oversight roundtable:   The Committee on Public Services and Consumer Affairs (CM Bowser, Ward 4, chair) is holding this roundtable on January 23 at 10:00 am in the Council Chamber.   The purpose of the roundtable is to hear from residents and others about the quality of regulated utilities in the city; regulated utilities include Verizon, Washington Gas, and PEPCO.   Details about the hearing, including how to register to testify and what information the committee is most interested in hearing from residents about, is in the hearing notice.

Help needed to set up food bank at Bruce Monroe

From Greater DC Cares comes this call for assistance:

Assist parents of Bruce Monroe at Parkview Elementary School on Thursday, December 10 (and every Thursday) set up and run a food bank from 3:30 - 5:30 pm.   Volunteers will help set up and distribute free food to area residents, including many hit hard by the economic crisis.   To get involved, contact Elizabeth at elizabeth [AT] stepdc [DOT] org or 829-8989.

16th Annual Report Card on Children & Family Well-Being in DC

Wednesday, December 16, 2009 DC Kids Count will release its 16th annual report card and fact book on the well-being of children and families in DC. The release will take place at the Urban Institute, 2100 M Street, NW 5th Fl.

The D.C. KIDS COUNT Collaborative for Children and Families consists of public and private organizations using research to support advocacy for changes in human, social, and economic policies and practices of government, the private sector, families, neighborhoods, and individuals. Its mission is to fight for the interests and well-being of children and families, and to ensure their healthy development and future in D.C. For more information please see the press release following.  Kids Count Press Release 2009

Breaking the Cycle of Teen Violence Fundraiser-December 10, 2009

Have fun fundraising for the purpose of breaking the cycle of teen dating violence across the Nation. “Break the Cycle - a non-profit located in DC and Los Angeles - works on policy, education, and direct service to address the 1 in 3 teens that experience abuse in relationships.” They are hosting a BEER TASTING on Thursday, December 10th from 7pm to 10pm at 2704 Ontario Rd. NW. Donations of $15 to Break the Cycle are being requested.  Break the Cycle Beer Tasting Fundraiser

Parent time with Michelle Rhee

Thanks to the Post's Bill Turque for sharing this important news from DC Public Schools:   Starting immediately, DCPS Chancellor Michelle Rhee is holding office hours to speak with parents and community stakeholders.

Individuals will get five minutes face-to-face with Chancellor Rhee, more personal than the community and town hall type meetings with which she started her tenure.   Office hours start on December 9 in Ward 7 and come to Ward 1 on April 8 at Bruce-Monroe Elementary School (3560 Warder Street, NW).   Can't wait until April?   Then head up to Ward 4 on January 14 to Raymond Education Campus (915 Spring Road, NW).   Other dates and locations are listed on the DCPS Web site.   All office hours will be held from 6:00 - 8:00 pm.

HIV Prevention Project

Mary's Center for Maternal & Child Care, Inc.'s HIV Prevention Project provides effective culturally and linguistically age appropriate HIV/STD education and screening services to African residents of DC.   In addition, Mary's Center staff provide information and referrals and routine HIV screening.   All services are free and confidential.

More information is available by calling 420-7033 or emailing bmuleta [AT] maryscenter [DOT] org.

Are you looking for affordable rental housing?

Housing Counseling Services' weekly Housing Search Clinic is held every Thursday* from 4:00 - 6:00 pm at the HCS Training Center, 2410 17th Street, NW, Adams Alley, Suite 100.   HSC is located in Adams Alley.   Walk down the alley on 17th Street between Euclid and Kalorama Streets.   Using the intercom, press # and 100 to be admitted.   No appointment needed.

HCS asks that people bring documents that might help in a housing search.   These include all documents related to income (such as recent pay stubs, TANF, unemployment, disability, child support, pension benefits, alimony, or Social Security statements) and expenses (such as recent phone, credit card, or utility bills, student and car loan statements).   Also, bring information about your current housing (such as a copy or your current lease).

*HCS follows DC government holidays and emergency closing procedures for inclement weather.

Mentoring Works2 holiday celebration

Mentoring Works2 has announced its December 19 holiday event.   Details about the 2nd Annual Christmas Benefit Banquet are in the flier below.

Mentoring Works Christmas Banquet

Vietnamese-American Community Service Center Holiday Fete!

The Vietnamese-American Community Service Center (VACSC) invites the community to the VACSC Annual Holiday Party on December 22 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm.   This Children's Christmas event is being held at the Josephine Butler Park Center, 2437 15th Street, NW.   The event will feature refreshments, entertainment, lots of fun, and good cheer!

Please RSVP By December 15 to Hien Vu at (202) 667-0437 or hienvu [AT] vacsc [DOT] org.

More details are in the flier below.

VACSCAnnual HolidayDecember 2009

Parents: Help bring fresh fruit and veges to DC schools!

Parents can help bring fresh and locally grown fruit and vegetables to DC!

Learn the role parents can play in making Farm to School a reality here in the District at this December 9, 7:00 pm meeting.   The meeting is being held at the Northeast Library (330 Seventh Street, NE at Maryland Avenue in the Second Floor Meeting Room) accessible by using the Union Station/Eastern Market metros.

Questions?   Contact Laura Marks at lauramarks [AT] gmail [DOT] com or Tara Flakker at tara [AT] flakker [DOT] com, or visit http://dcfarmtoschool.org/.

Turning Point Center Recruiting Families

Throughout December, Salvation Army is recruiting applicants for its Turning Point Center for Women and Children located at 1434 Harvard Street, NW.

The Turning Point Center is an intensive, two-year, transitional living program offering housing and supportive services to guide homeless families to independent living and self-sufficiency.   The program targets single parent families, headed by women ages 16 to 30 years.   Candidates should have no more than four children, should be homeless or in an unstable living situation, and, most importantly, should be motivated to make positive changes in their lives.

If you have clients or know people who are eligible and interested in committing to a life-changing program, refer them to a Turning Point Center information session so that the full details of the program's requirements and offerings can be explained.   After completion of this information session, interested applicants can ask for a referral form to be completed in conjunction with their case manager.   Fully completed referral packets with accompanying relevant information will be due just after the holidays.

After the referral is received, candidates will be contacted for an interview with the Turning Point Clinical Team.   Please note that the submission of an application packet does not guarantee an interview and that an interview does not guarantee acceptance into the Turning Point Program.

The referral and interview process usually takes 4-6 weeks to complete.   Therefore, candidates in a "crisis" situation may not be appropriate if they cannot maintain stability in their current residence until the process is complete.   They anticipate accepting 10-12 new families for move in early February 2010.

An information session can be scheduled at your site if you have three or more potential candidates.

Sessions will also be offered at the Turning Point Center itself throughout the month of December for candidates from those agencies that may only have one or two potential referrals.   Your client must call to reserve her space.

Attendance at an information session is mandatory and applications will not be accepted for those candidates who have not completed this part of the process.

For more information or to reserve a space for an information session, contact Pamela T. Lieber, LICSW, Program Director at 202-250-7721 or Pam [UNDERSCORE] Lieber [AT] uss [DOT] salvationarmy [DOT] org.

Thanks to DC Campaign's Spreading the Word for this information.

Learn about the Afterschool Supper Program for kids

Ward 1 is home to many programs serving children and youth after school.   We all know how hunger has become more common with the youth in these programs.   That is why this December 16 event by the state superintendent's office is so important:   Afterschool Supper Program Information Session.

The session is designed to teach providers how to start participating in the new Child and Adult Care Feeding Program (CACFP) Afterschool Supper Program.

• WHEN:   Wednesday, December 16, 10:30 am - Noon
• WHERE:   Wellness & Nutrition Services, Office of the State Superintendent of Education (51 N Street, NE, Lower Level Conference Room) (Parking is available, but allow enough travel time to secure a parking spot before the session begins.   51 N Street is also Metro accessible.   The office is one block from the Red Line, New York Ave-Florida Ave/Gallaudet U station.   Be sure to bring ID; you will have to check in at the building's guard desk.)

Confirm your attendance by Thursday, December 10 by contacting Suzanne Henley (suzanne [DOT] henley [AT] dc [DOT] gov or 654-6119).   Direct questions to Suzanne Henley (information above) or Katie Vinopal, a Nutrition Associate at D.C. Hunger Solutions (KVinopal [AT] frac [DOT] org or 202-986-2200 x3042).

Holiday party and silent auction, December 10

You're invited to join with the U Street Neighborhood Association to celebrate another successful year of working for and in our neighborhood at the U Street Neighborhood Association's Annual Holiday Party and Silent Auction on Thursday, December 10 at 7:00 pm at Town Danceboutique, 2009 8th Street, NW.

Operation Fix-It Visits Ward 1

Greetings Ward 1 Neighbors:

The Mayor's Liaison to the Office of Community Relations will be conducting a Fix-It on December 2nd at 10:00am at the following locations in your Ward:

200-400 blocks of T Street

200-400 blocks of U Street

200-400 blocks of Elm Street

200-400 blocks of V Street

200-400 blocks of W Street and the surrounding area on Florida Avenue.

We will be addressing the following issues: Abatement of all bulk trash, graffiti removal, abatement of rats, inspection of potential vacant properties, abandoned autos, street signage, street light audit. Please join us!! Operation Fix-It is Mayor Adrian M. Fenty's multi-agency initiative aimed at abating crime, blight, and compliance issues in communities throughout the District of Columbia. The Fix-Its are held weekly and the locations are generated directly from concerned citizens.

To learn more about Operation Fix-It and how you can join us on our next project in Ward 1, please contact the Ward 1 Helpdesk at 202.727.6224.


  

Community Forum-Greater DC Cares

  Greater DC Cares is hosting a neighborhood meeting on Wednesday, December 2nd 2009 from 6:30pm-8:00pm. This meeting will take place at the Parkview Recreation Center, located at 693 Otis Place, NW. The discussion will be centered around various programs in the community initiated by Greater DC Cares. Additionally, information will be given as to how community members can become involved. To register for this event email Meghan at mmcnamara@greaterdccares.org

Food and Fun at Harvest Fest 2009!

  The Columbia Heights Shaw Family Support Collaborative (CHSFSC) is collaborating with the Shepherd Street Boys and Girls Club for Thanksgiving this year. Located just two blocks from the Petworth Metro Station, there will be a free Thanksgiving dinner, face painting, arts and crafts, and entertainment for teenagers and families. The Harvest Fest will take place on Tuesday, November 24, 2009 from 5:30pm-8:30pm. Please find the Harvest Fest 2009 flyer attached for more information.
Harvest Fest 2009

DOES Transition Employment Program

  Check out the Department of Employment Service (DOES) Transitional Employment Program- A Great Community Resource Linking to Employment
In addition to the challenges of a lack of affordable housing and food insecurity faced by Ward 1 residents, joblessness is a growing concern and reality. On one hand, rising rates of unemployment for members of our community is a result of the economic downturn and continuing layoffs. On the other hand, there are resources that could be available to bolster the skills of residents to earn an honest wage and support their families, but oftentimes we do not have the information to access them.

One such resource is the DOES Transitional Employment Program. To participate, residents must stop by one of the One Stops and register for Project Empowerment, through which they will be referred for training, work, and support in our area. Flyers in English and Spanish with highlights and details are attached. You may also check online, at http://does.dc.gov/does/frames.asp?doc=/does/lib/does/services/TEP_Fact_Sheet-revised_FY_07_%282%29.pdf
DOES Transitional Employment Program (in English)

TEP Flyer en Espanol

Mil Mujeres Legal Services' open house, November 25

Mil Mujeres Legal Services (MMLS) is hosting an open house to celebrate the opening of their new office in Mt. Pleasant (3118 16th St NW) and in commemoration of International Day of Violence Against Women.   The open house is being held this Wednesday, November 25 at 10:00 am.   So stop by the event and enjoy a delicious breakfast and take advantage of this opportunity to learn about the services Mil Mujeres is offering to the community.   Additional information in the English and Spanish fliers.

The open house is made possible with the support of the Latino Agencies Coalition United to Stop Violence Against Women (member organizations listed in fliers).Mil Mujeres Legal Services English

Mil Mujeres Legal Services Spanish

FREE youth conference, December 12

The December 12 DMVoices Youth Conference is the place to be for young people who have something to say and want to make a difference.

The Latin American Youth Center's free half-day conference is featuring:

• Workshops on topics like youth violence, education, and segregation/gentrification (These are examples only; the agenda is being finalized.)
• Inspirational speaker(s)
• Free food
• Opportunity fair featuring groups and organizations that offer youth community-based developmental, educational, leadership and/or organizing opportunities

The event is being held from 1:30 – 6:30 pm in Columbia Heights.   More information in this flier and on the LAYC Web site.

But wait - there's more!   To pull off this ambitious event for young people, volunteers (young and old alike) are needed.   There's a job for everyone.   They range from outreach, registration, note takers, and serving dinner.   Volunteers get community service hours if they need it, free dinner, and LAYC's everlasting thanks!

Walk through of 14th St with Mayor Fenty and CM Graham is on!

The communtiy walkthrought that was rained out on November 13 has been rescheduled for Wednesday, December 9 at 9:30 am.   This pubic safety walk-through will be on 14th Street between Monroe Street and Oak Street, NW.   This is a good opportunity for residents, providers, and advocates to share their public safety concerns and solutions with the mayor and his team.

Questions?   Email Ward 1 Outreach/Services Coordinator, sybongile [DOT] cook [AT] dc [DOT] gov.

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Campbell Heights Community Health Fair, December 5

The Campbell Heights Residents' Association (along with a number of partners, listed below) is holding a Community Health Fair on December 5 from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm at the Campbell Heights Apartments (2001 15th Street, NW, Multipurpose Room and Dining Room).

An array of screenings will be available including:

• Glaucoma and other ophthalmology testing
• Blood pressure
• Prostrate
• Audiology
• HIV
• Diabetes

The health fair will also feature discussions including:

• Health resources and health maintenance for the aging
• Poly pharmacy
• Food nutrition
• Podiatry
• HIV/AIDS and STDs
• Financial management
• Mental health

Attendees can also participate in exercise and yoga/meditation demonstrations.   Another feature of the event include free light refreshments.

Co-sponsors of this health fair are: Howard University Hospital, Women in Medicine, Jair Lynch Development Corporation, Campbell Heights Property Management, and Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham.

For more information, contact Rev. Dr. Sandra Butler-Truesdale, (202) 246-6300 or Sandrabt [AT] emmamaegallery [DOT] com.

The Campbell Heights Residents' Association, Inc. was organized more than 25 years ago and now represents 171 senior citizens residing at the Campbell Heights Apartments.

View 2001 15th St NW in a larger map

Preliminary assessment online for health benefits

Now online is this helpful preliminary interview for public health benefits.   Residents and providers of all kinds can use this online tool to initially assess eligibility for the DC Healthcare Alliance, Medicaid for the elderly and disabled, and DC Healthy Families.

Here's an overview of the online process:

1. You don't need to be related to the family members needing assistance in order to help.
2. There are two parts to the online process.   Part 1 takes about 20 minutes and Parts 2 and 3 take about 10 minutes.   The time it takes depends on whether you have the materials you need to do the assessment.
3. You will have to mail or drop off in person the application.
4. It takes between 30 and 45 days for the Department of Human Services to determine you eligible and mail enrollment information.

Equally as exciting and useful is that this tool is also available in Spanish.

As time goes on, more programs and services will be added to this tool.

  
Vietnamese American Community Service Center (VACSC) Hosting Crime Prevention Workshop in Vietnamese

Who: VACSC is hosting event for parents, community members, and youth.

What: A Crime Prevention Workshop

Where: At VACSC, located at 2437 15th Street, NW Washington, DC 20009. Phone: 202-667-0437. Website: http://www.vacsc.org/

When: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 at 3:00pm

Why: To assist people in being alert and safe during the winter season and as it gets dark outside much earlier.

How: Distribution of a fact sheet on Census 2010 in Vietnamese language.

VACSC, a non-profit organization in Ward One, helps Vietnamese-Americans in the DC Metropolitan area to assimilate and integrate in American socieity “without sacrificing their cultural heritage and identity.” VACSC also promotes “friendship and understanding” between people who are Vietnamese and American.

Did you know Pepco wants to increase residential rates?

Pepco has proposed an increase in rates and charges to residential electricity customers.   According to a June 2009 fact sheet,

Pepco’s proposal seeks an increase of nearly 6.1% in residential customers’ overall monthly bills.   The typical bill for a Standard Offer Service ("SOS") residential customer who does not choose an electric generation supplier using 750 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month would increase by about $6.00.

The Public Service Commission is holding community meetings to elicit resident feedback on the proposal.   Two meetings remain:

• Thursday, November 19 at 6:30 pm at Hillcrest Recreation Center (3100 Denver St SE)
• Friday, November 20 at 10:00 am at D.C. Public Service Commission (1333 H St NW, Hearing Room 7th Floor East Tower)

Green DMV has started a petition opposing the increases.

Finally, more about the rate increase and what service providers can do to comment on the proposal is here.

Help is out there for choosing a new Medicare Part D plan

Open season for Medicare Part D has started (November 15).   Medicare beneficiaries may need to choose a new Medicare prescription drug plan before December 31, 2009 to avoid cost increases or changes to their drug coverage that could happen beginning in January 2010.

The Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia and the Whitman-Walker Clinic Legal Program have scheduled free walk-in clinics to help Medicare beneficiaries evaluate their current drug plans, and help them enroll in a new plan for 2010 if necessary.   Learn more about the Whitman-Walker open enrollment clinics here and the Legal Aid open enrollment clinic here.   Note that help from Whitman-Walker is available in Ward 1.

ANC vacancy bill hearing rescheduled

The hearing for B18-324, "Advisory Neighborhood Commission Vacancy Amendment Act of 2009", has been rescheduled by the Committee on Aging and Community Affairs (CM Alexander, Ward 7, chair).   The new date and time are November 19 at 6:00 pm in Room 412 of the JAWB.   This is rescheduled from an earlier date.   Details in hearing notice.

Those concerned with the work of these community-based elected officials and the role ANCs play in local democracy should comment on this bill.

November 11 ANC 1A meeting

Attend the November 11 ANC 1A meeting and you will be updated on the Park Morton development as well as a number of other issues that effect Park View.   The meeting will be held at 7:00 pm at Park Road Community Church at 1019 Park Road, NW (rather than the usual meeting place due to the holiday).

Community crime prevention meeting November 18

Interested in addressing crime and violence in your community?   This meeting may be one way.

Assistant Chief of Investigative Services Peter Newsham will attend a Fourth District (4D) crime meeting on Wednesday, November 18 at 7:00 pm at Emory Recreation Center (5701 Georgia Ave NW).   Chief Newsham is interested in hearing resident concerns.   Detectives will explain the investigative process including how residents can play an important role in helping the police solve cases.

Further, 4D officers will answer questions about social services and programs available to individuals and families.

Police district boundaries differ from Ward boundaries.   As a result, part of Ward 1 is in 4D.

View Larger Map

PEPCO proposes rate and fee increases; comment now to prevent these changes

The DC Public Service Commission has announced a series of public meetings to get feedback on the PEPCO proposal to increase rates and charges for electric service in the District.

The two remaining meetings are:

• Thursday, November 19 at 6:30 pm at Hillcrest Recreation Center (3100 Denver St SE)
• Friday, November 20 at 10:00 am at D.C. Public Service Commission (1333 H St NW, Hearing Room 7th Floor East Tower)

Organizations that provide emergency assistance, including for electric bills, should consider sharing aggregated data about client needs to demonstrate the negative impact a rate and fee increase would have on low- and moderate-income residents.   Residents should also consider submitting comments either in person or in writing to the Commission.

Santa's Secret Shop needs Elves for the Holidays!

From Greater DC Cares:

Santa's Secret Shop needs Elves for the Holidays!

Looking to donate goods, or volunteer on the holidays?   Parkview Community Center (693 Otis Pl NW) needs extra hands and goods during its Santa's Secret Shop event.

Children will be shopping at Parkview for gifts to give to their parents.   There will be six shifts during a school day in late December, as well as organizing opportunities for people who are unable to take the day off of work.   If you are interested in getting involved for the holidays, or making a donation to Santa's Secret Shop, email Nuri Heckler at nheckler [AT] greaterdccares [DOT] org for more information.

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Help youth help others

Youth involved with the Vietnamese-American Community Service Center (VACSC) are collecting food for those who are in need this holiday season.   To support these active and caring young people, check out the flier below.

VACSCCan Food Drive Nov 2009

Mayor Fenty public safety walk-through on 14th Street

On Friday, November 13 at 9:30 am, Mayor Fenty will do a pubic safety walk-through on 14th Street between Monroe Street and Oak Street, NW.   This is a good opportunity for residents, providers, and advocates to share their public safety concerns and solutions with the mayor and his team.

Questions?   Email Ward 1 Outreach/Services Coordinator, sybongile [DOT] cook [AT] dc [DOT] gov.

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Did you know Ward 1's unemployment was 10.1% in 9/09?

The Washington Business Journal reported on November 3 that unemployment in Ward 1 was 10.1%, between Ward 3 with the lowest unemployment (3.2%) and Ward 8 with 28.3%.

Thanks and Giving at DPR in November

Ward 1 residents may give and receive this Thanksgiving holiday season at the Kalorama Recreation Center:

• Thanksgiving Food Drive, November 2 – 23:   At Kalorama Recreation Center (1875 Columbia Road, NW) from 2:30 - 8:30 pm.   This event is for all ages.   Participants will drop off can foods; non-perishable items; or donations at the recreation center.   For more information, call John Borges, Site Manager, (202) 673-7606.
• Thanksgiving Basket Give Away, November 24:   At Kalorama Recreation Center (1875 Columbia Road, NW) from 7:00 - 8:45 pm.   This event is for all ages.   Site will collect food and donate baskets to needy families in the community.   For more information, call John Borges, Site Manager, (202) 673-7606.

Members of the media should contact John A. Stokes, (202) 673-2195.

Catch some health care on the Mama & Baby Bus

The March of Dimes Mama & Baby Bus schedule for November 2009 is now online.   The bus stops many days during the month in Ward 1 so check out the dates.   The bus is made possible by the cooperation of the March of Dimes, Mary's Center, Washington Hospital Center, Office of Latino Affairs, and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.

César Chávez PCS returns Bruce School to original purpose

Ward 1 CM Jim Graham recently announced the opening of César Chávez Public Charter School for Public Policy's newest campus in the historic Blanche K. Bruce School.   The Bruce School site is Chavez's fourth campus and "restores a tradition of education excellence at the Bruce school" according to CM Graham.   The transformation of this building may be long overdue but the historic preservation has succeeded in ending the blight.

To learn more about how the "restoration contributes to quality of education of the city's youth, and to the ongoing revitalization of this east side area of Ward 1", visit the CM's blog.

Have a Tummy for Some Yummy?

Girard Garden Workshop Series Continues...

City Blossoms will be hosting a cooking session presented by Chef Jamie Forsythe of B. Bistro on Saturday, October 31, 2009 from 10-11:30am at the Girard Garden, 1480 Girard Street, NW.

Chef Forsythe will give cooking instructions using some fall harvest recipes. Come to taste, see, hear, learn, and have fun with food!

For more 411 contact:
Rebecca Lemos
443-854-1669
rebecca@cityblossoms.org

This event is made possible by the the support of the Columbia Heights/Shaw Family Support Collaborative (CHSFSC) and Horning Brothers.

Holiday celebration for seniors

Ward 1's more than 7,500 residents age 60+ should save the date for the 12th Annual Senior Holiday Celebration to be held on December 9!
SeniorHolidayCelebrationSTD

Annual Feast of Sharing, November 25

A Thanksgiving spread with all the trimmings is being served up by friendly volunteers at the annual Feast of Sharing, this year on November 25.   Salvation Army and Safeway are once again coming together to make this holiday festive for all.   The feast will take place at the Washington Convention Center on November 25 from 9:30 am – 2:30 pm.   In addition to the awesome food, attendees will be able to get information from community and government service organizations and have a health screening or two.   To learn more about transportation to and from the feast and other event features, read the event flier.

Consejos de Seguridad Halloween

Consejos de Seguridad_Halloween

Clinicas gratuita de informacion legal

Para Sobrevivientes de la Violencia Doméstica se ofrece Información y Consejos sobre Órdenes de Protección Civil (CPOs) y Ley de Familia (incluyendo Divorcio, Custodia y “Child Support”).   Mas información en este volante.

Free legal clinics for survivors of domestic violence

WEAVE is offering legal information and advice on civil protection orders (CPOs) and family law cases (including Divorce, Custody, and Child Support).   More information in this flier.

Do you have something to say about drug use and treatment in Ward 1?

The City Council’s Committee on Health (Councilmember David Catania, At-large, committee chair) is learning from the public their view on service delivery – access, options, special populations, etc. – by the Addiction Prevention and Recovery Administration’s services and its contractors.   The committee had scheduled an oversight roundtable for October 15 but a scheduling conflict forced the cancellation.   Public comments are due to the committee by 5:30 pm on Wednesday, October 21.   Send to Jen Barry, Committee on Health, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Suite 115, WDC 20004.   Or email to jbarry [AT] dccouncil [DOT] us.

Why does this matter to Ward 1?   Well, consider these facts:

• Ward 1 had the greatest number of alcohol-related robberies in 2006.
• Ward 1 ranked second in police issuance of driving under the influence infractions in 2006.
• Death from chronic liver disease, lung cancer, and emphysema were common causes of death between 2001 and 2005; these diseases largely affected adult Black males.
• Young people over age 12 reported using/consuming illicit drugs at the same rate as their peers in other wards.
• An average of young adults between the ages of 18 and 25 between 2002 and 2004 needing but not receiving treatment for illicit drug use was higher than averages for adults over age 26.   (www.cesar.umd.edu/cesar/pubs/20080301.pdf)
• As of February 2008, there were two substance abuse services providers located in Ward 1.   (dcahec.gwumc.edu/education/files/s5/copc%20in%20dc.ppt)

As you well know, drug use affects individuals, families, and communities and all of us in one way or another pay the cost of use and addiction.   If you are a service provider, you have a story to tell.   You could present data on the co-occurrence of drug use and homelessness for example.   You could also talk about the challenges facing your organization in serving clients with drug problems by comparing non-drug related cases with those involving drugs.   If you are a resident, you could talk about the challenges of living in a community with open air drug markets or drug-related violence as a way of life for some.

Want to learn more about the Committee on Health?

Check out the following pages on the City Council's Committee on Health Web site:

• Budget and Oversight
• Policy
• Members
• Calendar

"The Great Harvest", a party for food for all

"The Great Harvest", a celebration of a new collaborative community food blog called The DC Food For All, is being held on October 24 at Big Bear Cafe.   The new blog will be about all things related to DC's food infrastructure and food culture, looking towards a healthier future for all of the city's residents.   There is a suggested $15 donation that will go to support the DCFoodFinder.org Web site, an interactive map of food resources in DC.   (But we mean the "suggested" part - all are welcome, regardless of ability to donate!)   Details about "The Great Harvest" are online at Beyond Bread.

So what does all of this have to do with Ward 1 and our residents?   To start, Ward 1 nonprofits (such as Martha's Table) are included in the DC Food Finder map.   Also consider that 6,991 individuals received food stamps in 2008.   The DC Food Finder is a terrific tool that links residents to the services they need.   So party for a great cause!

Halloween safety tips for kids and Ward 1 events

This easy-to-use tip sheet will help make Halloween fun and safe for children and youth this year.   And as an added bonus, we have listed events in Ward 1 on a separate page.   Please share far and wide!
HalloweenSafetyTips.Ward1Eventspdf

Ward 1 Halloween events

There are some fun and exciting Halloween events planned for children, youth and families in Ward 1 this year:

• Halloween Activities at the Trolley Park at 11th and Monroe, NW:   Pumpkin decorating (October 24) and Halloween Costume Parade and Contest (October 31)
• Actividades para el Halloween en Trolley Park:    Decoración de calabazas (24 de octubre) y Desfile y consurso de disfraces de Halloween (31 de octubre)
• MPD 4D Annual Haunted District October 31
• MPD 3D Sub Station:   October 31 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at Harriet Tubman Elementary School for ages 3-14
• MPD 3D Main Station:   October 31 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at 1620 V St NW for children and teens
• Mentoring Works2 Halloween Party:   October 30 from 5:00 - 8:00 pm at MW2 (2828 Georgia Ave NW) for children and teens