Metropolitan News » District of Columbia

Man Runs Shooting at a Group on R Street, NW then Flees

News Staff — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 17:33:43 +0000

Just before midnight on June 15, 2013, MPD responded to a report an attempted assault with a dangerous weapon. The complainant reported that while standing with several other individuals in the 1400 block of R Street, NW, an unknown black male ran towards him firing a gun.

The complainant was not injured. The suspect then fled on foot north on Johnson Street, NW. Police are on the lookout for a black male, 24-30 years, 5’9”-5’10”, 170-180 lbs., with a beard, short hair and dark complexion wearing a black shirt and blue jeans armed with a handgun.

This case in currently under investigation and anyone with additional information please call the Command Information Center on 202-727-9099.

One City Summer Initiative 2013 Highlights Enriching Programs for Residents of all Ages

News Staff — Sun, 16 Jun 2013 06:03:08 +0000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray today kicked off the One City Summer Initiative 2013 (OCSI), a citywide public-private partnership to ensure young people, ages 5 to 24, have a safe and enriching summer experience. The Mayor’s One City Summer Kickoff coincided with the Department of Public Works’ popular Truck Touch at RFK Stadium’s Parking Lot 7. The annual Truck Touch event draws children and families to “touch” and learn about the vehicles used to provide infrastructure support and emergency and medical services around the city.

“The summer can be a great time for children to play, learn and enjoy the outdoors. However, summertime also can be a time when they are unsupervised and not always safe. That’s why we have planned the One City Summer Initiative to be a wide-ranging government and community effort to engage youth of all ages in safe and productive activities,” Mayor Gray said. “One City Summer involves numerous agencies, nonprofits and businesses, offering fun, recreational and educational programming of all kinds, including special events for children, youth, senior citizens, and families.”

This year, One City Summer is focusing efforts in 10 areas, including public housing communities and the DC General Shelter. The DC Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation (CYITC) is coordinating OCSI again this year and has added new features. Notable among these is regular evening programming at DC Housing Authority sites that is designed to meet the specific interests and needs of their residents; and a new website to serve as a hub for services and supports for young people at onecityyouth.dc.gov.

At Saturday’s kickoff, agency and community representatives were on hand from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm to give out valuable information about the direct services, resources and myriad opportunities that exist in the city during the summer and beyond. Participants of all ages took advantage of a wide variety of mobile services, from health screenings to voter registration. In addition, activities were targeted to teenagers and school-aged youth, including band performances, a basketball tournament and free food.

Police Are Looking for Two Persons of Interest in Armed Robbery on Benning Road

News Staff — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 23:45:01 +0000

(Washington, DC)- The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and locating two persons of interest in connection with an armed robbery of an establishment which occurred on Wednesday, June 12, 2013, at approximately 3:05 am, in the 2500 block of Benning Road, NE.

Two subjects entered the establishment, displayed a handgun, and stole cash belonging to the establishment. The subjects were captured by the store’s surveillance camera and are described as follows:

The first subject is described as a black male, 6’0″-6’1” tall, thin build, with brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a gray sweatshirt/hoodie, dark pants, and a black face mask.

The second subject is described as a black male, 6’0”-6’4″ tall, 220-230 pounds, with brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt/hoodie, cargo-style pants, and a black face mask.

The persons of interest are shown in this video:

Anyone with information that can assist in the identification of this subject is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099.

Pedestrian Killed in Accident on 17th Street, NW

News Staff — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:59:55 +0000

Contact: Officer A.B. Clay (202)727-4383

June 13, 2013

Pedestrian Traffic Fatality: 1100 Block of 17^th Street, NW

(Washington, DC)-Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Major Crash Unit are investigating a pedestrian fatality which resulted from a traffic collision in the 1100 block of 17^th Street, NW.

On Wednesday, June 12, 2013 units from the Second District responded to a pedestrian traffic collision with injury, which occurred at approximately 3:12 pm in the 1100 block of 17^th Street, NW. A 2000 Dodge Caravan was traveling northbound on 17^th Street approaching the intersection of Desales Street, NW and struck a pedestrian who was walking in the crosswalk. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services responded to the scene and transported the pedestrian to an area hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition.

On Thursday, June 13, 2013 the pedestrian succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

The decedent has been identified as 70 year-old Benjamin Arquines Soriano of Bladensburg, Maryland.

The Metropolitan Police Department’s Major Crash Unit is investigating this crash.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411.

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moveDC is a citywide initiative to develop a bold, new vision for the District’s transportation future and increase transportation choices for all.
Visit www.wemovedc.org for more information.

City Officials Encouraged by Continued Decrease in Infant-Mortality Rate in D.C.

News Staff — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 16:53:13 +0000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, Mayor Vincent C. Gray and officials from the DC Department of Health (DOH) announced an infant-mortality rate of 7.4 infant deaths per 1,000 live births – another historic low for the District, after last year’s announcement of 8.0 infant deaths per 1,000 live births. The declining infant-mortality trends reflect the District’s successful 10-year path to achieving its Healthy People 2010 objective of reducing infant mortality.

“The rate of infant mortality is the best-known indicator of community’s health status,” Mayor Gray said. “It is encouraging to see the continued decline in infant mortality in the District, and I am confident that as we continue making long-term health investments for the city’s most vulnerable populations, we will continue to see improvements in many health indicators.”

Several factors contributed to the District’s 2011 reduction in infant mortality, including:

An increase in public-health initiatives for expectant mothers;
An 86.3 percent reduction in smoking among pregnant women;
A 50 percent increase in mothers who breastfeed;
Expansion of, and increased access to, the District’s primary-care prenatal services; and
An 8.6 percent reduction in teen births in the District.

“The continued decrease of the District’s infant-mortality rate is a reflection of the city’s strong leadership and commitment to increase access to care and improve local programming,” said Dr. Saul Levin, DOH Interim Director. “The Department of Health will continue to develop targeted programs to improve health outcomes to ensure every District resident lives their best life.”

2011 Infant Mortality Report Highlights

Highlights of the report include:

The number of infant deaths decreased from 73 in 2010 to 69 in 2011, a 5.5 percent decrease.
Infant-mortality rates declined in Wards 1, 3, 4, and 6 in 2011.
The post-neonatal death rate decreased by 32.4 percent.
The proportion of births to teenaged mothers (mothers aged 15 to 19 years) decreased by 8.6 percent between 2010 and 2011.

Ongoing research and data collection have enabled DOH to identify factors such as low birth weight, lack of adequate prenatal care and prematurity as contributors to infant mortality in the District. DOH will use the 2011 infant-mortality data to develop hyper-local, targeted programs that address pre-conception health in the areas that saw an increase in mortality rates. DOH’s Safe Cribs and I Am a Healthy DC Mom/Dad initiatives will continue to serve as the cornerstone of the Perinatal and Infant Health programs.

MPD Investigate Fatal Shooting on 18th Street, NE

News Staff — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 17:51:48 +0000

(Washington, DC)-Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch are investigating a fatal shooting which occurred in the 400 block of 18^th Street, Northeast.

On Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at approximately 9:42 pm, officers from the Fifth District responded to the 400 block of 18^th Street, NE for the report of a shooting. Upon their arrival, a crime scene was located and further investigation revealed that the victim was transported by citizens to an area hospital. The victim, an adult male was admitted in critical condition suffering from apparent gunshot wounds and later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

The decedent is identified as 45 year-old Lawrence David Phillips of Southeast, Washington, DC.

The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons wanted for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411.

Police Investigate Fatal Shooting on 18th Street, NE

News Staff — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 17:49:49 +0000

(Washington, DC)-Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch are investigating a fatal shooting which occurred in the 400 block of 18^th Street, Northeast.

The decedent is identified as 45 year-old Lawrence David Phillips of Southeast, Washington, DC.

District Will Help Frager’s Hardware Open Pop-Up Version of Garden Store at Eastern Market

News Staff — Mon, 10 Jun 2013 06:53:17 +0000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, Mayor Vincent C. Gray and Frager’s Hardware owner John Weintraub announced that the District’s had expedited an agreement with the Capitol Hill business to continue operating its lawn-and-garden store on the concrete pad on 7^th Street SE that formerly served as the foundation for the temporary location of Eastern Market.

The arrangement follows a devastating fire that completely gutted the 90-year-old Capitol Hill business on the evening of June 5. Since 1923, Frager’s has sold hardware on the corner of 11^th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Over the years, the business has expanded to include the sale of housewares, paint, lawn-and-garden supplies and other goods.

“Frager’s Hardware is one of the most beloved businesses in the District, and none of us can imagine the Capitol Hill community without Frager’s,” said Mayor Gray. “We wanted to ensure that the District did everything we could to help this locally owned and operated small business weather the hardship caused by this fire and continue serving its neighborhood and employing District residents as it rebuilds.”

The agreement is with the District’s Department of General Services (DGS), which controls the parcel. Weintraub has vowed to rebuild his entire operation, but the arrangement with DGS allows the lawn-and-garden portion of the business to reopen almost immediately – helping to maintain a revenue stream during the busy summer season. While the interior portions of the hardware store were completely destroyed by the blaze, many of the plants and supplies in the nursery were left undamaged. Frager’s employs 65 people.

District Residents Give Agencies ‘A-Minus’ for Month of May

News Staff — Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:03:08 +0000

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray has released the May grades for the District’s Grade.DC.gov program. The average grade for all participating District government agencies held steady at an “A-minus,” confirming that additional attention to customer service is improving service delivery across the District government.

For the second month in a row and in an effort to increase transparency and give the public more context for each grade, the number of reviews per agency was also released. Over 1,300 reviews were logged by District residents and visitors during the month of May. To date, the public has reviewed agencies over 11,500 times since the start of the program last June.

“I am pleased to see increased efforts in customer service resulting in solid agency grades through the innovative Grade.DC.gov program,” said Mayor Gray. “Through this program and other efforts, we endeavor to continue improving our residents’ experience with these agencies as well as making it easier for agency customers to provide feedback.”

The May grades for participating agencies range from a “C-plus” to an “A-plus”:

Agency	Jan 2013	Feb 2013	Mar 2013	April 2013	May 2013
ABRA	N/A	B	A-	A-	B-
DCOA	A	A+	A+	A+	A
DCRA	B+	B+	A-	A	A-
DPW	C	C+	A	A-	B+
DDOT	A	A	A+	A	A
DOES	N/A	D+	A-	B-	B-
DOH	N/A	D+	B+	B	B-
DPR	A-	B	B	B+	C+
DMV	B-	B-	C+	B-	B+
DCPL	B	A-	A-	A-	A-
DSLBD	N/A	A-	A	B	B+
FEMS	A+	A	A+	A-	A+
MPD	B-	B-	B-	A-	A-
OSSE	N/A	B	A	B-	A
911/311	B	B+	B	B+	B+

The platform is powered by newBrandAnalytics (nBA), a leading provider of social-market-intelligence solutions in the private sector, and is the company’s first venture into government services. The Web interface enables agency leaders to gather and interpret real-time, continuous feedback from constituents and use it to make data-driven decisions that will improve agency operations as quickly as possible. Using a proprietary algorithm, nBA converts feedback about each agency into a score, which, in turn, is converted into a letter grade. The grading rubric is the same scale that nBA uses for its private-sector clients in the restaurant and hotel industries.

Independent analyses have shown the District’s customer-service levels improving significantly in recent years. Residents have enjoyed increasing access to online systems for payments, license and permit applications, and public information. Grade.DC.gov complements the District’s existing customer-service-survey tools by providing an additional platform not only for soliciting information, but also for proactively aggregating and analyzing feedback residents are already providing on popular social media platforms.

Grade.DC.gov enables residents to provide their comments and opinions via text, tweet or Facebook post as well as via the initiative’s namesake Web portal.

District Bans Coal Burning

News Staff — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 17:33:09 +0000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray today announced new legislation that would protect residents’ health and safety by banning coal-burning power facilities in the District of Columbia. The move comes in conjunction with permits issued by the District Department of the Environment (DDOE) to the Architect of the Capitol to construct a new cogeneration facility that will allow the Capitol Power Plant (CPP) to stop using coal to produce power for facilities on Capitol Hill.

“In conjunction with the permits DDOE issued today, this legislation will help District residents breathe more easily for years to come,” said Mayor Gray. “My Sustainable DC initiative aims to make the District the nation’s greenest, healthiest, most sustainable city in the country in the next two decades – and eliminating coal emissions from the Capitol Power Plant is a key victory in achieving that goal.”

The Ban on Combustion of Coal Act of 2013 would:

Ban coal burning in the District, beginning 18 months after the commercial operation date of the Capitol Power Plant’s (CPP) cogeneration project (except in instances of force majeure and for testing and tuning). The commercial operation date is the date upon which construction of the new cogeneration equipment has been completed, adequately tested, and authorized as able to deliver electricity to the distribution system.
Strictly limit facilities to burning coal for no more than 72 hours per emissions unit, per year, and only for the purposes of tuning and testing. Testing and tuning are required by the federal Clean Air Act and District regulations.

This language mirrors the language in the soon-to-be issued permits for the CPP. The facility’s ability to restrict coal usage (with the exception of the 16,666 ton limit above) is entirely dependent upon completion of the cogeneration project and achievement of the commercial operation date.

18 Year-old Arrested in Homicide of Akinwole Olu W

News Staff — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 01:19:13 +0000

(Washington, DC)-Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch have announced an arrest in the fatal shooting which occurred in the 1000 block of 44^th Street, Northeast.

On Thursday, March 14, 2013, at approximately 11:40 pm, units from the Sixth District responded to the 1000 block of 44th Street, Northeast for the report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they located an adult male lying on the ground suffering from apparent gunshot wound. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services transported the victim to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

The decedent is identified as 31-year-old Akinwole Olu Williams, of Northeast, Washington, DC.

On June 3, 2013, at approximately 5:30 pm, members of the Capitol Area Regional Fugitive Task Force, pursuant to a DC Superior court warrant, arrested 18 year-old Deandre Shaheed of Northeast, Washington, DC, charging him with First Degree Murder While Armed in connection with the shooting death of Akinwole Olu Williams.

Subjects Sought in relation to Burglary on Monroe Street, NE.

News Staff — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 23:36:51 +0000

(Washington, DC)- The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and locating multiple suspects in connection with a burglary which occurred in the 1400 block Monroe Street, NE.

On Wednesday, May 29, 2013, between the hours of 9:00 am and 1:00 pm, subjects entered a home located in the 1400 block of Monroe Street, NW and took the victim’s credit cards and other property from the home.

Later that day, the victim’s credit cards were used at a clothing store on Georgia Avenue, NW. The subjects using the victim’s credit cards were captured by surveillance video.

The suspects are shown in this video:

Anyone with information that can assist in the identification of these suspects is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411. The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $1,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for a crime committed in the District of Columbia.

Police Investigate Fatal Shooting on Brentwood Road, Northeast

News Staff — Wed, 05 Jun 2013 14:25:19 +0000

(Washington, DC)-Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch are investigating a fatal shooting which occurred in the 1200 block of Brentwood Road, Northeast.

On Monday, June 3, 2013 at approximately 11:18 pm, patrol officers from the Fifth District responded to the 1200 block of Brentwood Road, Northeast for the sounds of gunshots. Upon their arrival, they located a male inside a hallway, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Personnel from DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services transported the victim to a local hospital where he was admitted in critical condition.

On Tuesday, June 04, 2013, at approximately 1:25 pm, the victim of this shooting, succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead. The remains of the decedent have been transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the District of Columbia pending a determination of a cause and manner of death.

The decedent is identified as 16 year-old Malik Spears of Southeast, Washington, DC.

Contractor from Culpeper, Va. Sentenced to 26 Months in Prison For Cheating Elderly Woman for more than $170,000

News Staff — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 01:50:53 +0000

WASHINGTON – James F. Butler, 52, a contractor from Culpeper, Va., was sentenced today to 26 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution to an elderly woman he tricked into paying more than $170,000 for home improvements that were not performed, announced U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. and Cathy L. Lanier, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

Butler pled guilty in November 2012 in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to a charge of first-degree theft of a senior citizen. He was sentenced by the Honorable Gerald I. Fisher. Judge Fisher ordered Butler to pay $174,471 in restitution to the victim. Upon completion of his prison term, Butler will be placed on three years of supervised release.

According to a factual proffer, signed by the defendant as well as the government, Butler wrongfully obtained the money between December 2011 and February 2012 from the victim, who was then 93 years old and residing alone in Northwest Washington. The victim has memory issues that are readily apparent to anyone having a conversation with her.

Butler met the victim at her home in December 2011. He and his workers asked her to execute multiple contracts for home improvement work. He then falsely represented that the victim owed him money for home improvement labor that was not performed, and for materials that were not installed. He and others told the victim that payments were due for material and labor a total of 38 times during a period of just one and a half months.

Although Butler performed some work and provided some materials at the residence, it was for a fraction of the cost that the victim ultimately paid.

From Dec. 24, 2011 through Feb. 12, 2012, the victim wrote multiple checks for home improvement work to the defendant. On some occasions, Butler would have her write him multiple checks on the same day, knowing that she did not remember already paying him. All told, Butler unlawfully obtained $174,471 from the victim.

Butler is the owner of Nationwide Tree Specialists, a tree and stump removal business that is operated out of his home in Culpeper. He is not licensed as a general contractor in the District of Columbia or elsewhere.

A financial advisor who did work for the victim noticed the payments and the matter was brought to law enforcement’s attention. Butler was arrested at his home in April 2012.

“As our population grows older, we see more and more cases of scam artists exploiting the elderly,” said U.S. Attorney Machen. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office has focused on both education and prosecution to fulfill our moral responsibility to protect our older neighbors from shady operators who try to take advantage of them. This prosecution demonstrates the importance of reporting elder financial abuse so that we can prevent fraudsters from creating more victims.”

“It is shameful that this criminal preyed on a vulnerable member of our community,” said Chief Lanier. “Hopefully, this sentencing will send a message to other would be thieves and con

artists.”

In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Machen and Chief Lanier praised the work of the Metropolitan Police Department, including the detective in the financial crimes and fraud

squad who investigated the case. They also expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by the Virginia State Police, City of Culpeper Police, and a regional law enforcement task force

from Virginia. Finally, they acknowledged the efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie G. Miller, who prosecuted the matter.

moveDC is a citywide initiative to develop a bold, new vision for the District’s transportation future and increase transportation choices for all.
Visit www.wemovedc.org for more information.

Person of Interest Sought in Homicide of Robert Plight

News Staff — Tue, 04 Jun 2013 01:48:48 +0000

(Washington, DC) – The Metropolitan Police Department seeks the public’s assistance in identifying a person of interest in reference to a homicide which occurred in the 4400 block of Benning Road, NE, at approximately 8:17 PM on Saturday, June 1, 2013. The person of interest was captured by surveillance cameras at a nearby establishment.

The person of interest is shown in this video

The decedent in this case is identified as 31 year-old Robert Plight of Northeast, Washington, DC.

The Metropolitan Police Department currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone that provides information which leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons wanted for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411.

Suspect Sought in Sexual Assault on Hunt Place, NE

News Staff — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 02:16:37 +0000

(Washington, DC)-The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and locating a suspect wanted in connection with a First Degree Sexual Assault while Armed in the area of the 4300 block of Hunt Place, NE.

On Saturday, June 1, 2013, at approximately 3:30 am, an adult female was walking in the area when she was approached by an unknown male who produced a knife and sexually assaulted her. The suspect is described as a black male, dark complexion, 5’9″ in height, wearing a black shirt, black hat, and black shoes.

Anyone who has knowledge of this case, knows the identity of the suspects or sees them, should take no action, but should immediately call police at 202-727-9099. Additionally information may be submitted to the TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411.

Play DC is an ambitious program to renovate 32 District play spaces across the city and improve your quality of life.
Click here for more information on this DPR and DGS-driven initiative.

Mayor Cuts Ribbon on First Playground Renovated Under Play DC Program

News Staff — Fri, 31 May 2013 23:13:15 +0000

Rosedale Playground is DC Department of Parks and Recreation’s First Inclusive Play Space

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Today, Mayor Vincent C. Gray was joined by city officials, community leaders, area residents, youth and special guests at Rosedale Recreation Center Playground to cut the ribbon on the first of playground to be renovated under the Play DC program. Play DC is a multi-year initiative to renovate 32 D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) playgrounds across the city. It is the largest playground-renovation project in the District’s history.

“Improving every resident’s quality of life is one of the main goals of my One City Action Plan, and every child in the District should have a safe and inviting place to play,” said Mayor Gray. “Renovating these playgrounds is an investment in the well-being of our children that will pay dividends for years to come.”

Originally, the Rosedale playground was slated to be a small “tot lot.” However, under Mayor Gray’s Playground Renovation Project, the scope of the playground was expanded to become DPR’s first totally inclusive play space, meaning that it furthers physical, cognitive, sensory and social skills.

The 12,000-square-foot playground is also accessible for children and caregivers of all physical abilities.

Rosedale playground’s features include:

An Omni Spinner – a high-backed version of a merry-go-round which allows children to be transferred into the equipment from a wheelchair or walker. This play piece is good for sensory play, social skills and team work;
Enough clearance between pieces of equipment to allow two wheelchairs to pass each other or travel through the equipment together;
Seating within the play equipment to allow for caregivers or children to rest when needed. This element was added to the design after receiving feedback from our advisory group; and
Sensory elements that include items such as finger mazes, musical instruments and talk tubes. There is a sensory wall for more sensory play, and quiet places for imaginary play or for children who may prefer less stimulus.

To ensure that each newly renovated play space meets the needs of, and reflects the individuality and uniqueness of, District neighborhoods, DPR and the D.C. Department of General Services (DGS) have hosted community meetings across the District to discuss the overall Play DC project, and each individual play-space project. District residents were given the opportunity to weigh in and supply input on details such as design and amenities that should be considered for each play space. Feedback was gathered from residents, community groups, and especially children.

“DPR is pleased that the District is supporting the renovations of playgrounds across the city,” DPR Director Jesus Aguirre said. “Play is a fundamental aspect of growth and development for children and youth, and a positive exercise experience leads to avoidance of weight gain, higher self-esteem and reduction of risk factors for disease.”

The following playgrounds are underway for Play DC renovations:

Ward 1
• Harrison Playground, 1330 V Street NW
• Banneker Playground, 2500 Georgia Avenue NW

Ward 2
• Rose Park Playground, 2609 Dumbarton Street NW

Ward 3
• Macomb Playground, 3409 Macomb Street NW
• Palisades Playground, 5200 Sherrier Place NW
• Forest Hills Park Playground, 32nd Street NW and Chesapeake Street NW
• Newark Park Playground, 39th Street NW and Newark Street NW
• Key Playground, 5001 Dana Place NW

Ward 4
• Takoma Park Playground, 300 Van Buren Street NW
• Emery Playground, 5801 Georgia Avenue, NW
• Upshur Park Playground, 4300 Arkansas Avenue NW
• Fort Stevens Playground, 1327 Van Buren Street NW
• Hamilton Playground, 1340 Hamilton Street NW

Ward 5
• Harry Thomas Sr. Playground, 1743 Lincoln Road NE
• Turkey Thicket Playground, 1100 Michigan Avenue NW
• Brentwood Playground, 2311 14th Street NE

Ward 6
• Randall Playground, South Capitol and I Streets SW
• Kennedy Playground, 1401 7th Street NW

Ward 7
• Hillcrest Playground, 3100 Denver Street SE
• Benning Park Playground, Southern Avenue & Fable Street SE
• Neval Thomas Playground, 650 Anacostia Avenue NE

Ward 8
• Fort Greble Playground, Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue and Elmira Street SW
• Douglass Playground, 2100 Stanton Terrace SE
• Oxon Run Playground, 6th Street and Mississippi Avenue SE

In addition, Mayor Gray’s Fiscal Year 2012 and 2013 budgets include capital funding for the renovation of the following eight playgrounds:

• Volta Playground, 1555 34th Street NW (Ward 2)
• Raymond Playground, 915 Spring Street NW (Ward 4)
• Noyes Playground, 2725 10th Street NE (Ward 5)
• Rosedale Playground, 1701 Gales Street NE (Ward 6)
• Benning Stoddert Playground, 100 Stoddert Place SE (Ward 7)
• Barry Farm Playground, 1230 Sumner Road SE (Ward 8)
• Congress Heights Playground, 611 Alabama Avenue SE (Ward 8)
• Fort Stanton Playground, 1800 Erie Street SE (Ward 8)

Takoma Park Man Killed on Hamilton Street

News Staff — Thu, 30 May 2013 13:21:48 +0000

(Washington, DC)-Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Branch are investigating a fatal shooting which occurred in the unit block of Hamilton Street, Northwest.

On Monday, May 27, 2013, at approximately 7:50 pm, units from the Fourth District responded to the unit block of Hamilton Street, NW for the report of shooting. Upon arrival, they located an adult male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services personnel responded and transported the victim to an area hospital where he was admitted in critical condition. On Wednesday, May 29, 2013, the adult male succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.

The decedent is identified as 22-year-old Rhett Gelb of Takoma Park, Maryland.

Patti Labelle to Perform in Benefit Concert for Duke Ellington School of the Arts

News Staff — Sat, 25 May 2013 00:23:06 +0000

The Duke Ellington School of the Arts is pleased to announce the 6^th annual Performance Series of Legends benefit concert featuring the legendary Patti LaBelle on Monday, March 25, 2013 at 7:30pm in the concert hall of The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

Singer, author, and actress Patti LaBelle is one of the most prolific artists in modern music with an illustrious career than spans over 50 years. As the melodic doyen of the legendary 60s quartet, Patti LaBelle & The Bluebelles, and the retro 70s trio, LaBelle—Patti’s kinetic performances and signature four-octave instrument served as the group’s torch.

The multiple Grammy and American Music Award winning legend continues to savor one of the longest sustained recording and touring careers in contemporary music.

This event is the latest installment of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts’ Performance Series of Legends that has previously featured Dave Chappelle, Denyce Graves, Stevie Wonder, Earth Wind & Fire and Smokey Robinson.

“We are truly honored by the support of such legendary artists for our students and community. Their willingness to give back their time, resources, and inspiration through this Performance Series provides Duke Ellington students’ valuable exposure and customized artistic direction. This is an experience that changes the course of a student’s dream”, states Rory Pullens, Head of School and CEO of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts.

The contributions of such performers has provided a source of revenue that allows the school to continue providing talented students in the DC metropolitan area the opportunity to receive the highest quality arts and academic education.

The Duke Ellington School of the Arts was founded in 1974 and is the only DC public high school that provides pre-professional arts training and college preparation to more than 500 talented students. For more than thirty-nine years, it has fulfilled its mission to “nurture and inspire passion for arts and learning in talented students who might not otherwise have an opportunity to develop their artistic skills.”

The Duke Ellington School of the Arts has continued to maintain a 98% graduation rate with 95% of its seniors being accepted into colleges, universities and conservatories.

Performance only tickets priced $50-$175 are on sale at the Kennedy Center Box Office at 202-467-4600 or kennedy-center.org.

VIP tickets at $500 each, and sponsorship opportunities of $2,500-$100,000, are available through The Ellington Fund at 202-333-2555 or info@ellingtonarts.org. Please visit ellingtonschool.org for further details or to learn more about the Duke Ellington School of the Arts.

BrightFarms to Build Largest Hydroponic Greenhouse Farm in Ward 8

News Staff — Fri, 10 May 2013 01:10:17 +0000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray today launched a partnership with BrightFarms to build a 100,000 square-foot, state-of-the art greenhouse farm in Ward 8 designed to grow up to one million pounds of local produce per year. The greenhouse farm project – which also has the potential to create jobs for District residents – showcases the city’s position as a leader in sustainability and fresh-food initiatives.

“This greenhouse farm project is consistent with our Sustainable DC food goals,” said Mayor Gray, who in 2011 announced a plan to make DC the greenest, healthiest, and most livable city in the nation. “This project not only adds 2-1/2 acres of food-cultivating land within the District, but it helps put the city on the path to ensuring universal access to secure, nutritious and affordable food supplies.”

Among a host of other initiatives, Sustainable DC seeks to dramatically expand food production and access to healthy food within the city. The location of the farm, at the corner of South Capitol Street and Southern Avenue in Ward 8, has been underutilized and plagued by illegal dumping.

“Ward 8 has been a food desert for far too long,” said Ward 8 Councilmember Marion Barry. “This farm will not only provide a healthy food option for our constituents, but the greenhouse will also provide jobs, economic stimulus and greater access to fresh produce for residents citywide.”

By growing locally, BrightFarms delivers produce that is thousands of miles fresher, more flavorful and better for the community. This farm will:

Grow enough crops to meet the fresh-vegetable-consumption needs of up to 5,000 residents;
Create 25 full-time, green-collar jobs; and
Facilitate more 100 construction jobs.

“Using District land for this hydroponic greenhouse farm is emblematic of our commitment to the Mayor’s Sustainable DC goals,” said Department of General Services (DGS) Director Brian J. Hanlon. “We have a responsibility to the District and to future generations to be more intentional about prioritizing agricultural land use and healthy food access in urban environments.”

BrightFarms grows local produce nationwide. By financing, building, and managing greenhouse farms at or near grocery retailers, BrightFarms eliminates time, distance, and costs from the produce supply chain. BrightFarms local produce is fresher, more flavorful, and better for the environment, enabling grocers to change their produce supply chain in a way that improves the planet and their profits.

“When it comes to sustainability, DC is a real player with an impressive long-term plan,” said BrightFarms CEO Paul Lightfoot. “The DGS, acting on behalf of Mayor Gray, has been a tremendous and extremely efficient partner. We cannot wait to bring millions of pounds of the freshest local produce to an innovative retailer in the nation’s capital!”

The groundbreaking for the greenhouse farm construction project is set for fall 2013, with completion in early 2014. A local partner on the BrightFarms project is the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation (AEDC).

“The Anacostia Economic Development Corporation is pleased to be in partnership with BrightFarms to provide quality, healthy and GMO-free vegetables to the residents of the District of Columbia,” said Stan Jackson, CEO of AEDC. “We are equally excited to create jobs for our residents that will pay a livable wage in recognition of our diversifying economy.”

Persons of Interest Sought in Kidnapping, Sexual Assault and Robbery at Meridian Place

News Staff — Thu, 09 May 2013 00:16:06 +0000

(Washington, DC)- The Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and locating two persons of interest in connection with a kidnapping, sexual assault and robbery which occurred in the 1500 block of Meridian Place, NW. One of the suspects is shown in photos below that were taken from surveillance video.

On Monday, May 6, 2013, between the hours of 1:00 am, a female and a male were sitting in a vehicle in the 1500 block of Meridian Place, NW, when they were approached by two unknown males who produced a handgun and forced them out of the vehicle. The male victim was assaulted at that location whereas the female victim was taken to the 1400 block of Oak Street, NW, where she was sexually assaulted. Both victims were robbed of property.

The persons of interest are described as two black males wearing all black and ski masks. Both suspects were armed with a handgun. Below is an image of a subject that was captured by a camera using one of the victims ATM cards.

The person of interest is shown in this video:

Anyone with information that can assist in the identification of the suspect pictured above is asked to call the police at (202) 727-9099. Additionally, anonymous information may be submitted to the department’s TEXT TIP LINE by text messaging 50411. The Metropolitan Police Department is currently offering a reward of up to $10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the aforementioned offenses.

Grand Opening of The Heights on Georgia Avenue

News Staff — Wed, 08 May 2013 16:20:09 +0000

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray celebrated the grand opening of The Heights on Georgia Avenue – a mixed-use development that provides affordable housing and retail space along the historic Georgia Avenue corridor in Ward 1.

“Celebrating the grand opening of The Heights on Georgia Avenue is a milestone that signals the ongoing preservation of affordable housing in the District,” said Mayor Gray. “I thank Neighborhood Development Company, Mi Casa, members of my Cabinet and all who came together to make this project successful. This kind of development featuring residential and retail components is central to the renaissance of the Georgia Avenue corridor.”

In addition to principals from the development partnership – Adrian Washington, founder of the Neighborhood Development Company; and Fernando Lemos, Executive Director of Mi Casa, Inc. – Mayor Gray was joined by Ward 1 Councilmember Jim Graham, Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) Victor L. Hoskins, DC Housing Finance Agency Director Harry Sewell, and DC Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Director Michael Kelly to ceremonially cut the ribbon on the 100,000-square-foot building.

On-site construction of the building began in January 2012 and was followed by a groundbreaking ceremony in March of that same year. The building contains a total of 69 affordable one-, two- and three-bedroom units, a second-floor community space for tenants, a second-floor garden area, a green roofdeck, and other sustainable development features. In addition, the first floor of the building will contain over 10,000 square feet of neighborhood-serving retail, which is supported by a $1.4 million Great Streets Initiative grant.

“The District is committed to the revitalization and strengthening of neighborhoods along the Georgia Avenue corridor,” said Deputy Mayor Hoskins. “We are excited to unveil today’s affordable housing development and offer additional community-serving retail to the area.”

The project was completed on budget and on time, and it has formally been renamed 32thirty-two Apartments. For more information on the building, please see visit its website here.