Because of our location our Wi-fi locations were limited and we were'nt able to blog the last days of our trip. But more will be coming. Stay tuned. Until then these are some of Mel.O.D. and I's favorite pictures of the trip.
Ok. So we're back in the states. and Burr it's cold outside, it hit us as soon as we got off the place. So the flights were long coming back but the conversation sparked with a stranger in my row on the last flight in from Houston made it pleasurable.
Because of our location our Wi-fi locations were limited and we were'nt able to blog the last days of our trip. But more will be coming. Stay tuned. Until then these are some of Mel.O.D. and I's favorite pictures of the trip.
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Alright so presently I am sitting in a park in Caguas,PR with 2 parrots posted up in a gigantic cage in front of me. Different yes, but it is Puerto Rico! So last night, Melody and I had the pleasure of camping on the beach. Not the most comfortable sleeping arrangement but indeed a cheap nights sleep and the pleasure of dipping ourselves in the water at anytime. So we set up camp and got to exploring. We explored the la playa de Luquillo, which actually seemed somewhat deserted. On the coast of the Caribbean Ocean, ba jesus it was beautiful, kinda scary at times. The ocean can be so humbling. Before that we trekked, fa reals, the beautiful rainforest of El Yunque. Four hours in the moist, green, colorful rainforest... Amazing! We felt one with the flora/amazing greenery called rainforest. :) Between the sounds of birds, the coqui (frog) and rain sporadically falling, Melody and I felt like we had become closer to the sun, the land and the spirits of maybe our ancestors. Imagining where people were inhabited or if this particular plant was used to build a home, I mean... this stuff all happened. After spending the night we headed to Ponce early this morning to check out a site, which was known as Taino Ceremonial ground. We watched a short Taino video and then headed towards the grounds. The tour guide was rather unknowledgeable in his answers. I visited three years ago and then there was a gentlemen by the name of Salvador, beautiful storyteller and definitely took this history far more seriously so we asked and discovered he worked not too far from the park, at the History Museum in the center of Ponce. We found him and he didn't let us down. Answered all our questions with a bit of passion and soul in his ojos y corozon. Man o man I got chills the way he spoke of Africans, their beauty and great assets. He has done numerous years of research on the early existence of Aborignal Indigenous groups like the Taino's. He furthered his research with the Indians integration with Africans as slavery took over. Mind blowing I must say, very informative as well. (video coming asap)
Loiza blew me away. It took awhile to get there, the buses weren't running on a regular basis, we considered getting a scooter; would of if the cheap place had available ones. But Enrique, his girlfriend, Amin of the Dominican Republic, Melody and I headed to Loiza in a taxi we finally flagged down. Only Amin and Enrique spoke Spanish and English so it was hard to communicate with Erique's girlfriend, I wanted to be able to fluently communicate with everyone I saw. I need to runaway and learn Spanish.
Enrique added much ease to the trip, translating and guiding us along the way. We were greeted with hi's and santeria statues adorned the street as we entered into Loiza. Warmth Melody and I hadn't fully felt since entering Puerto Rico, was here. I question if culture is the only thing pulling certain people apart? (because I'm sure other people have different experiences) Although Enrique was from Loiza he seemed a bit hesitant to walk the streets, telling us that bad stuff happens at night and the violence was no joke. A party was going on, La Bomba traditional dance was going to be taking place in about an hour or two. I wanted to stay, hearing the sounds allowed me to forget about all the caution signs Enrique was throwing up but we had to solicit a ride from Enrique's Aunt so we had to leave early. His aunt told us we now have a home in Loiza. :) Although I do think she was a bit hesitant with me and not Melody because I do come off as rather masculine/boyish. The car ride back to Santurce proved to be good and at the end she shook my hand, hugged and kissed us both. Yup, she didn't do that before; she only shook Melody's hand. (kinda hurt my feelings) *I can't help but feel that things would be different if I didn't resemble somebody who was confused. I am not. I wear what I like, which fits no boundaries. I am a woman and sometimes the energy that others project out to me causes me to feel bad about who I am but I am strong. The souls that I meet that are worth while will accept me for who I am, not write me off because of what I "seem" to be. Our main mission while here is to meet souls. find out more about the Taino culture, which is everywhere but not at the same time. The symbols, the statues and sparse literature all tell me there are signs of native perseverance but how deep does it go? As we meet people. Talk to people. we are getting a better sense of the people and culture. For one. Old San Juan is so geared toward tourists. Whew. It's kind of disgusting considering all the real culture that exists, it almost seems made up. Our ferry ride to El Catano yesterday proved to be very educational, the front is all glamorous but the town is what it is: Living dwellings and not structures that drive them into debt. Some of the same hang ups we have, they have here. The economy is sucking, mainly due to the fact that Puerto Rico has no main imports. Less people are traveling and spending money. Juan Carlos, an aspiring actor, whom we met at La Perla gave us a tour of the cemetery. strange but very informational. The ocean at night is so surreal and moving... La Perla sits on the coast of the Caribbean Sea/Atlantic Ocean. We now have a friend in Juan Carlos! Manuel has been to more states in the U.S. than me and he had a few things to say about it. He wasn't black in Atlanta, he was Latino, he said. He didn't like that, how people were judging and didn't fully know his background. "What I'm not black, look at my skin, I am you!" The homosexual community is slowly revealing itself. The people are oppressed, they are frowned upon and the more masculine girls hide during the day it seems. A guy stopped us on the street because we were holding hands and through our broken Spanish we found out that he was bisexual. But he seemed shy about it, there are more gay men here than there are open woman though. Hmz... what does that say.
I don't like acronyms but OMG! We arrived Wednesday in San Juan at approximately 5:30 p.m. after waiting 2, yes 2 hours for maintenance issues with our U.S. airways aircraft. I wasn't even sure if I wanted the plane to lift off after that. We all know what happened with the Hudson river plane last year I know it was a bird but still. And Puerto Rico is surrounded by all water. :) Needless to say we made it! Whisked away by Francisco, after greeting and throwing our bags in the car we toured el barrio de ponce de leon and it's remote surroundings. We weren't expecting the tour but it was definitely good because we would have been lost the first night. I mean we kinda were but even more! We threw our bags in our humble casa where the neighbors appreciate their culture and don't seek to please the thousands if not millions of tourist that trek through their city every year. It's kind of a hostel, Francisco has a two bedroom house a bathroom and a kitchen. $25 a night. a steal for sure! 1st night:
2nd day & night
UTP(us): Why? M: This is a really bad area. My english isn't that good but the police come in and we have to watch who comes in. They raided 5 homes just the other night. UTP: For what? M: Drugs but they get paid off too sometimes... (interrupted by the walki-talki I didn't notice she had) ...You can walk around just be careful. She was monitoring La Perla for $50 a day she said. Not bad she said, for not doing too much. And because I'm not a scary person we explored La perla.
-Dawn J. Exposing roots everywhere we go! Maishah and I hit up Alero for some nice eats before we hit Lyrics and Lace for their special edition v-day open mic set up. So #1 fault, I was late :( the snow, traffic, parking made me late. I felt so bad, had my date waiting for me for a sec. So I get there and the waitress: seemed cool. Later. She ended up messing up our order. It was late. My salad didn't have chicken. Maisha didn't get her order until my salad was almost gone. Despite. We had mucho mucho fun at this pretty cool Mexican spot on Ust. The walls were decorated with painted murals of known folk like Oprah, Gordon Parks and Jay-Z. Only took a few picks because my camera was acting bogus and died! Afterward we hit up the open mic where I laid down 3 poems (pictures soon). Here's we go! And don't forget to check the Black History Month events happening until the end of the month below! Black History Month Events Till the end of the Month! Friday, February 5-Sunday, February 28, 10 am-5 pm (daily) Reception for the Artists: Friday, February 5, 7-9 pm Culture of the Mind & Spirit: An Exhibition of Regional African American Artists This exhibition features the works of a diverse group of artists with a common heritage and profound links to Montpelier Arts Center. All ages welcome. FREE Montpelier Arts Center 9652 Muirkirk Road, Laurel 20708 301-377-7800; TTY 301-490-2329 Saturdays, February 13 & 21, 12 noon-4 pm or Tours by appointment only The Mount Calvert Historical and Archaeological Park Exhibit features American Indian, early colonial and African American history. By the mid-1800s, 51 enslaved African Americans lived and worked at Mount Calvert Plantation. View the on-site exhibit “A Confluence of Three Cultures.” 16801 Mount Calvert Road Upper Marlboro 20772 301-627-1286; TTY 301 699-2544 Sunday, February 21, 12 noon-3:30 pm The Plummers’ Kitchen Join the Riversdale Kitchen Guild in the dependency kitchen as they recreate early-to-mid-19th century, traditional African American foods, similar to what the Plummer family who lived and worked at Riversdale might have eaten. A guided tour of the main house included. All ages welcome. Fee: $3/adult; $2/senior; $1/ages 5-18; FREE ages 4 & under (includes tour of house) Riversdale House Museum 4811 Riverdale Road, Riverdale Park 20737 301-864-0420; TTY 301-699-2544 Sunday, February 21, 2-4 pm The Ties that Bind: Tying the Past to the Future Enjoy fun activities including making a memory book, a historical picture walk, African dance and more. All ages welcome. Tickets: $5/person Prince George’s Ballroom 2411 Pinebrook Avenue, Landover 20785 301-341-7439; TTY 301-446-3234 Monday, February 22, 10 am-12 noon Senior Show & Tell Seniors, share your stories and life experiences while you lunch with friends. Pre-registration suggested. Ages 60 & up; FREE College Park Community Center 5051 Pierce Avenue, College Park 20740 301-441-2647; TTY 301-445-4512 Tuesday, February 23, 8 am-1 pm U.S. Supreme Court Trip Walk the corridors of the Supreme Court where the first African American Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall sat from 1967-1991. Until his retirement from the highest court in the land, Justice Marshall established a record for supporting the voiceless American. Sit in on an oral argument before the Court, explore the exhibits, and watch a short film. Lunch (on your own) is available at the Supreme Court’s cafeteria. Reservations required. Ages 13 & up Fee: $10/person Temple Hills Community Center 5300 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills 20748 301-894-6616; TTY 301-203-6030 Tuesday, February 23, 10:15 am & 12 noon Buffalo Soldier Selected as one of the “Best American Plays for Young Audiences,” this play tells the true story of the heroic deeds of the 9th and 10th Cavalries. Recommended for grades 3 & up Tickets: $6/person; $5/person in groups of 15 or more Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 20784 301-277-1710; TTY 301-277-0312 Friday, February 23, 11 am-12 noon Cartwright Singers Relax and enjoy the smooth gospel music of the Cartwright Singers. Seating is limited; pre-registration required. Ages 60 & up; FREE Camp Springs Senior Activity Center 6420 Allentown Road, Camp Springs 20748 301-449-0490; TTY 301-446-3402 Tuesday, February 23, 1-3 pm Go AFRICA! Dancing, Drumming, and Head Wrapping Imagine closing your eyes and hearing the sounds of a beating, African Djembe drum. Now picture yourself dancing to the beat of that drum. Then, learn about the origin of the “do-rag” which is today’s African gelee or head wrap. Learn how to tie a head wrap in a variety of styles. Bring fabric and wear comfortable dancing clothes. No reservations necessary. Ages 60 & up; FREE Harmony Hall Regional Center 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington 20744 301-203-6040; TTY 301-203-6030 Wednesday, February 24, 7:30 am-2 pm African American History in Washington, D.C. Tour Join us on an interesting and informative tour in Washington, D.C. Travel to four sections of the city and learn about the history of slavery, civil rights, and education. The 4-hour itinerary includes Lincoln Park, historic U Street, Ford¹s Theater, Peterson’s Boarding House, the Lincoln Memorial and Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Along our journey, we’ll stop for lunch at a famous soul food restaurant. Fee includes transportation, tour, and lunch. Ages 6 & up Resident $60; Non-Resident $72 Harmony Hall Regional Center 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington 20744 301-203-6000; TTY 301-203-6030 SMARTlink #153091 Wednesday, February 24, 12:30-2 pm Black History Movable Museum Explore memorabilia from the late 1920s to the present. Light refreshments served. Ages 60 & up; FREE Langley Park Senior Activity Center 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville 20783 301-408-4343; TTY 301-446-3402 Wednesday, February 24, 4-5 pm Anansegromma of Ghana Celebrate Black History Month with “royal elders” and musicians of a typical West African Village. Through “call and response” songs, games, and drum rhythms on authentic instruments, Anansegromma offers an engaging, first-hand exploration of West African cultural traditions. All ages welcome. FREE College Park Community Center 5051 Pierce Avenue, College Park 20740 301-441-2647; TTY 301-445-4512 Wednesdays, February 3, 10, 17 & 24, 6-9 pm Throwback Theater Join us on Wednesday evenings in February to watch movies featuring black actors and actresses. Scheduled movies include: February 3: They Call Me Mr. Tibbs; February 10: Car Wash; February 17: Uptown Saturday Night; and February 24: The Five Heartbeats. Nominal fees for concession food. Ages 13 (with parental guidance) & up; FREE Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover 20785 301-583-2582; TTY 301-583-2483 Thursday, February 25, 5:30-7:30 pm Black History Jeopardy Think you know black history? Test your knowledge by playing this trivia style game. Prizes awarded. Reserve your spot by February 19. All ages welcome. FREE Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 20782 301-864-1611; TTY 301-445-4512 Thursday, February 25, 6-8 pm Lesole’s Dance Project: Live Performance and Group Workshop Enjoy a live performance that highlights the unique qualities of modern and Afro-fusion styles of dance. Inspired by southern African culture, this unique cultural experience focuses on movement, vocabulary and choreography. All ages welcome. FREE Langley Park Community Center 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville 20783 301-445-4508; TTY 301-445-4512 Thursday, February 25, 7-9 pm Race, War, and Conflict: African Americans in the Military from WWI to Vietnam Join us for an evening of music and food. View a photographic exhibit and learn about the experiences of African Americans in the military and the end of a segregated military force. Fee: $5/person, FREE for veterans and active military personnel Newton White Mansion 2708 Enterprise Road, Mitchellville 20721 301-249-2004, TTY 301-446-3234 Friday, February 26, 10 am-12 noon 4th Annual Black History in Motion Music, reenactments, dance recitals, poetry readings, and memorabilia displays will give a historic overview of the many contributions of African Americans. All ages welcome. Fee: Resident $2; Non-Resident $3 Gwendolyn Britt Senior Activity Center 4009 Wallace Road, Brentwood 20722 301-699-1238; TTY 301-446-3402 Friday, February 26, 10:15 am & 12 noon Everybody’s Hero: “The Jackie Robinson Story” At the beginning of the summer of 1947, television was brand new, the sound barrier had not been broken, and baseball was a white man’s game. By the time fall arrived, all that had changed. President Truman addressed the nation for the first time on TV, Chuck Yeager flew faster than any man ever had, and Jackie Robinson became the first African American to play major league baseball. This play, featuring music by Mad River Theater Works, shows the events that shaped Jackie Robinson’s character, his struggle to gain acceptance, and the tremendous obstacles he overcame on his way to changing the face of our nation and our national pastime. Recommended for grades 3 & up Tickets: $6/person; $5/person in groups of 15 or more Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 20784 301-277-1710; TTY 301-277-0312 Fridays, February 5, 12, 19 & 26 Tours: 12 noon, 1 pm, 2 pm & 3 pm The Bentley Family of Upper Marlborough Join us for a tour that focuses on African American women who lived at Darnall’s Chance in the 18th century with a special focus on the Bentley Family. Tours are FREE on Fridays during February. Reservations not required. Darnall’s Chance House Museum 14800 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro 20772 301-952-8010; TTY 301-699-2544 Friday, February 26, 12 noon-2 pm & 6-8 pm Black Movie Cinema From noon-2 pm, watch Imitation of Life about two single mothers raising daughters and the role race plays in their lives. In the evening, watch The Longshots, a sports comedy about a former high school football player who coaches his niece to be the first ever girl quarterback in Pop Warner football. Popcorn and soda will be available. All ages welcome. FREE Kentland Community Center 2411 Pinebrook Avenue, Landover 20785 301-386-2278; TTY 301-445-4512 Saturday, February 26, 2:30-4 pm Becky Umeh and The Zomeme Dance Company Enjoy a lively performance in which Ms. Umeh interprets dances representing African life. You’ll tap your feet to the vibrations of drums and be amazed at the acrobatic moves of the dancers. All ages welcome. FREE North Brentwood Community Center 4012 Webster Street, North Brentwood 20722 301-864-0756; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 26, 4 pm A Glimpse into the Life of an Aviator Take a glimpse into the life of Charles H. Flowers, as you watch The Tuskegee Airmen. Immediately following the movie, Mr. Flowers, a resident of Prince George’s County, and other prominent African American aviators will be available for a Q&A session. Pre-registration is required. All ages welcome. FREE Columbia Park Community Center 1901 Kent Village Drive, Landover 20785 301-341-3749; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 26, 4-6 pm Black Pilots of America Members of the Black Pilots of America will host a “How to Fly” workshop, which focuses on the aerodynamics of flying. Reservations required by February 19. All ages welcome. FREE Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center 6120 Sargent Road, Chillum 20782 301-853-2005; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 26, 7-9 pm Black History Step Show Watch local steppers perform. Light refreshments served. All ages welcome. Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6 Potomac Landing Community Center 12500 Fort Washington Road, Fort Washington 20744 301-292-9191; TTY 301-203-6030 Saturday, February 26, 7-10 pm “50 Greatest Basketball Players from the Washington Metro Area” Join us for a screening of the African American-produced documentary profiling the 50 greatest basketball legends from the Washington metropolitan area. Meet the producers and join in for a question and answer session of how and why the film was made. Reservations required by February 19. All ages welcome. FREE Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 20782 301-864-1611; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 26, 7:30-9 pm Honor Roll of Excellence Honor Roll of Excellence is the 2010 Black History Month, live theatrical production presented by Huntington Community Center¹s Teen Theatre under the Arts, Culture, Technology, and Wellness Program. This play was written about the men and women who have had schools named after them in Prince George’s County. Ages 2 & up; FREE Huntington Community Center 13022 8th Street, Bowie 20720 301-464-3725; TTY 301-218-6768 Saturday, February 27, 9 am-4 pm African American Festival Celebrate Black History Month by taking a class or workshop focusing on black culture. Shop from a variety of vendors selling reasonably priced items. End the day by joining us for a jazz concert. Interested vendors should contact staff for information about vendor spaces and reservations. 9 am-3:30 pm Vendors available10 amAfrican Drumming Workshop11:30 amAfrican Dance Class12:30 pm Fashion Show1-3 pm Ongoing Educational Workshops4-6:30 pmJazz Concert (nominal fee) All ages welcome. FREE admission Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover 20785 301-583-2582; TTY 301-583-2483 Saturday, February 27, 10-11:30 am 18th Century Bladensburg Learn about the importance of the African American contribution to the economic development of Bladensburg and Washington, D.C. This program will include a skit, presentation and West African refreshments. Reservations required. Space is limited. All ages welcome. FREE Bladensburg Waterfront Park 4601 Annapolis Road, Bladensburg 20710 301-779-0371; TTY 301-699-2544 Saturday, February 27, 11 am Genealogy Is More Than Charts Learn how information at the National Archives and the Library of Congress can be used to complete your family tree. This FREE, 2-hour presentation has been designed primarily for adults; however, all ages are welcome. Pre-registration (by phone) is required. Columbia Park Community Center 1901 Kent Village Drive, Landover 20785 301-341-3749; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 27, 1-2:30 pm The Life and Times of Dr. Henry A. Wise, Jr. Come and spend some time with us as we discuss the achievements of this WWII fighter pilot and many more of his great historical accomplishments. Pre-registration is required (in person) at the center. Ages 5-12; FREE Patuxent Community Center 4410 Bishopmill Drive, Upper Marlboro 20772 301-780-7577; TTY 301-203-6030 Saturday, February 27, 1-7 pm Xtreme Teens/Pre-Teens: Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture Join us for a trip to Baltimore to learn about the contributions of prominent Marylanders including Cab Calloway, Billie Holliday, Thurgood Marshall and Reginald F. Lewis. Fee includes transportation and museum admission only. (Bring additional money for food.) Reservations required by February 20. Ages 10-17 Fee: $8 (Residents only) Rollingcrest-Chillum Community Center 6120 Sargent Road, Chillum 20782 301-853-2005; TTY 301-445-4512 Saturday, February 27, 4-5 pm Black Nuns in a Slave Society A little-known aspect of African American history is the first order of black nuns in the United States of America, founded by Sister Mary Elizabeth Lange in Baltimore City. On July 2, 1828, four women of color met in a row house on Fells Point to pronounce simple vows, giving birth to a new order of nuns within the Catholic Church a community of free black women living in a slave-holding state. Sister Mary Reginald Jervis of the Oblate Sisters of Providence will speak on this remarkable history. All ages welcome. FREE Surratt House Museum 9118 Brandywine Road, Clinton 20735 301-868-1121; TTY 301-699-2544 Saturday, February 27, 5-7 pm Music Madness Join us for a night of fun and enrichment! Learn all the latest dance moves from our hip-hop dance group, while Priscilla’s Hand Dance Group will show parents the latest steps. All ages welcome. FREE Good Luck Community Center 8601 Good Luck Road, Lanham 20706 301-552-1093; TTY 301-445-4512 Saturday, February 27, 7-10 pm Umoja High School Step Show In the spirit of the first principle of Kwanzaa (“Umoja” which means “Unity”), M-NCPPC hosts the 1st Annual High School Step Team Competition. Prizes awarded. Ages 5 & up Fee: $5/person Bowie Center for the Performing Arts 15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie 20715 301-464-1737; TTY 301-218-6768 Sunday, February 28, 3-5 pm Drum Line Face-Off Join us for a drum line face-off between several Prince George’s County High School drum lines. See our county’s finest battle it out with snare drums, tenor drums, bass drums, and cymbals. As an added bonus, there will be a presentation by a representative from the Black Diamonds exhibit. Light refreshments served. All ages welcome. FREE South Bowie Community Center 1717 Pittsfield Lane, Bowie 20716 301-249-1622; TTY 301-218-6768 Sunday, February 28, 4 pm PRAISE! The annual liturgical dance festival returns with top dance troupes from area churches. This year’s performance features gospel soloist Cora Harvey Armstrong, a widely known and admired singer whose voice has been compared to Mahalia Jackson’s. Tickets: $12/person; $10/person/seniors, students, and groups of 15 or more Publick Playhouse 5445 Landover Road, Cheverly 20784 301-277-1710; TTY 301-277-0312 There are Maryland ARts grants up for the taking. UTP is going to try and take a stab at getting some money but here are some links so you can try to.
Prince George's Arts Council is giving away individual and 501(c)3 org arts education grants. Deadlines begin April 30th-May 14, 2010 Maryland State Arts Council is doing the same thing, with a bit more to receive you better get on it. July deadline. Black History Month is here, yes 6 days into it and I haven't done anything. I read about Carter G. Woodson, which I seem to do every year but nevertheless he basically founded Black History Month, making February the respected month. Because abolitionist Frederick Douglas and President Abraham Lincoln's birthdays were during that month. I greatly appreciate the thought of Douglas and only Lincoln because the emancipation proclamation was approved under his name but he was certainly for voluntary emancipation for a second and the initial proclamation only included 10 states. Anywho I want to take time to partake of some of the wonderful events happening in DC and in PG county.
The Maryland National Capital Park & Planning commission, Prince George's County has a whole jammed pack calender full of Black History Month events to attend: Open daily, sunrise to sunset Self-guided tours Cherry Hill Cemetery This late 1800s African American family farm cemetery is the only intact African American family farm cemetery in the Bladensburg-Riversdale-Hyattsville area. Interpretive signage is on site. 6821 Ingraham Street, Riverdale 20737 301-627-1286; TTY 301-699-2544 Open daily, sunrise to sunset Self-guided tours with interpretive signage. Columbia Air Center Memorial What is now a wide open field at Patuxent River Park in Upper Marlboro, used to be a booming airfield with several large aviation hangars in the mid-1900s. Visit our newest memorial park site and learn about the first African American-owned and -operated airfield in America. 16000 Croom Airport Road, Upper Marlboro 20772 301-627-6074; TTY 301-699-2544 Open daily, sunrise to sunset Self-guided tours Northampton Slave Quarters and Archaeological Park This historic site features reconstructed foundations of two slave quarters from the former Northampton Plantation (1673-1860). Interpretive signage is on site. 10915 Water Port Court, Bowie 20721 301-627-1286; TTY 301-699-2544 Monday, February 1-Sunday, February 28; Daily, 9 am-5 pm (daylight hours) Self-Guided Walking Tour: “Three Towns - One Community” Take a self-guided, walking tour of the historically black towns of Cedar Heights, Fairmount Heights, and Chapel Oaks. During your tour, you’ll see many historic homes and buildings, including the former home of Booker T. Washington’s daughter; the former home of the first black Superintendent of Prince George’s County’s Black Schools; the former home of one of Prince George’s County’s first black judges; and an 85+-year-old home built with plans from the Sears-Roebuck catalog. Also see one of the first black-owned gas stations and stop at the historic Chapel Oaks Fire Station, one of the first all-black fire departments in the country. Cedar Heights Community Center 1200 Glen Willow Drive, Seat Pleasant 20743 301-773-8881; TTY 301-218-6768 Events Starting tomorrow by days of the week! This is some interesting stuff for all ages! Monday, February 8, 10:30 am Travel to South Africa with Lesole Dance your way to the tip of the African continent with Lesole Dancers. Experience traditional Ndlamu dance from Zulu villages that give a snapshot of the clothing, customs, live drumming and high energy of South Africa. Enjoy the percussive sounds of Gumboot, a kind of “instant messaging” dance slapped out on gold miners’ rubber boots, and learn about Pantsula, an upbeat urban dance like American hip-hop but with a cultural twist. Learn more about this performance and the post-performance lunch by calling the center. Ages 60 & up Tickets: $5/person Harmony Hall Regional Center 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington 20744 301-203-6040; TTY 301-203-6030 Monday, February 8, 6-8 pm Black History Cinema: Black Magic Samuel L. Jackson and Wynton Marsalis narrate this ESPN documentary chronicling the civil rights movement as experienced by black college basketball players and coaches who were a part of these events. All ages welcome. FREE Prince George’s Plaza Community Center 6600 Adelphi Road, Hyattsville 20785 301-864-1611; TTY 301-445-4512 Tuesday, February 9, 3-5 pm The Traveling African American Memorabilia Museum Learn about African American history through Donald Conway’s memorabilia exhibit. Reminisce and learn as you view a variety of items from postage stamps and baseball cards to U.S. money and cereal boxes. All ages welcome. FREE Langley Park Community Center 1500 Merrimac Drive, Hyattsville 20783 301-445-4508; TTY 301-445-4512 Tuesday, February 9, 6-8 pm Scrapbooking Workshop Bring your family photos and creativity to a scrapbooking workshop. Participants supply the memories and we’ll supply the materials to create a 2-page layout. Ages 13 & up Fee: $8/person Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover 20785 301-583-2582; TTY 301-583-2483 Wednesday, February 10, 9 am-3 pm African American Heritage Tour Take a closer look at Prince George's County's African American history sites. We'll visit Charles Duckett Freedman's Cabin, Columbia Air Center (the 1st licensed African American-owned and -operated airfield in America), Northampton Plantation Slave Quarters and Dorsey Chapel. All ages welcome. Fee: Resident $10; Non-Resident $12 Temple Hills Community Center 5300 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills 20748 301-894-6616; TTY 301-203-6030 SMARTlink #154886 Wednesday, February 10, 10:30 am Kids’ Day Out: Lions of Industry, Mothers of Invention Unknown history is revealed as we learn about the giants of African American business and innovation. Do you know about the amazing ghost story of hair care entrepreneur Madame C.J. Walker? What about the paintings of agricultural chemist George Washington Carver, who made over 300 products from the peanut? Or the hilarious antics of George Crum, the inventor of the potato chip? ‘Host’ Booker T. Washington, mixes media and audience participation and brings these champions to life. All ages welcome. Tickets: $5/person Arts/Harmony Hall Regional Center 10701 Livingston Road, Fort Washington 20744 301-203-6070; TTY 301-203-3803 Wednesday, February 10, 2-6 pm Black Heritage Art Show Learn about well known African American leaders and the schools in the county named after these prominent Americans. Light refreshments served. All ages welcome. FREE Marlow Heights Community Center 2800 St. Clair Drive, Marlow Heights 20748 301-423-0505; TTY 301-203-6030 Wednesday, February 10, 3-4 pm African Dancers Performers from the Lesole Dance Project present Zulu, Gumboot and street dances from South Africa. Ages 5-12; FREE/members of the Kids’ Care program William Beanes Community Center 5108 Dianna Drive, Suitland 20746 301-568-7719; TTY 301-203-6030 Wednesday, February 10, 3:30-5 pm African Mask Making Show your creative side! Paint and decorate a mask with a variety of materials and colors. Ages 6-12 Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $6 Baden Community Center 13601 Baden-Westwood Road, Brandywine 20613 301-888-1500; TTY 301-203-6030 Wednesdays, February 3, 10 & 17, 6:30-8 pm Xtreme Teens: Black History Can You Dig It ~ Freedom Fighters Teens, register for an interactive series of seminars focusing on six extraordinary ‘Freedom Fighters’ for African culture. Earn community service hours while learning about the lives of Nat Turner, Marcus Garvey, Huey Newton, Shirley Chisholm, Steve Biko and Nelson Mandela. Pre-registration required by January 27; space is limited. Ages 12-17; FREE Bladensburg Community Center 4500 57th Avenue, Bladensburg 20710 301-277-2124; TTY 301-445-4512 Wednesdays, February 3, 10, 17 & 24, 6-9 pm Throwback Theater Join us on Wednesday evenings in February to watch movies featuring black actors and actresses. Scheduled movies include: February 3: They Call Me Mr. Tibbs; February 10: Car Wash; February 17: Uptown Saturday Night; and February 24: The Five Heartbeats. Nominal fees for concession food. Ages 13 (with parental guidance) & up; FREE Prince George’s Sports & Learning Complex 8001 Sheriff Road, Landover 20785 301-583-2582; TTY 301-583-2483 Thursday, February 11, 1:30 pm (This event date has changed to Thursday, February 18) Grandma’s Cautionary Tales Actress Debra Mims transforms herself into Grandmother Sally Kathryn Mims to tell ghost stories and folktales of African, African American and Caribbean literature. Ages 5-12; FREE Baden Community Center 13601 Baden-Westwood Road, Brandywine 20613 301-888-1500; TTY 301-203-6030 Friday, February 12, 11 am-12:30 pm Celebrating Black History at its Best Relive the civil rights movement by listening to personal stories of those who survived the trials and tribulations of that era. Engage in a Q&A session and answer trivia questions for prizes. Children will enjoy face painting. Light refreshments served. Ages 17 & under; FREE Glassmanor Community Center 1101 Marcy Avenue, Oxon Hill 20745 301-567-6033; TTY 301-203-6030 Fridays, February 5, 12, 19 & 26 Tours: 12 noon, 1 pm, 2 pm & 3 pm The Bentley Family of Upper Marlborough Join us for a tour that focuses on African American women who lived at Darnall’s Chance in the 18th century with a special focus on the Bentley Family. Tours are FREE on Fridays during February. Reservations not required. Darnall’s Chance House Museum 14800 Governor Oden Bowie Drive, Upper Marlboro 20772 301-952-8010; TTY 301-699-2544 Friday, February 12, 12 noon-2 pm & 6-8 pm Black Movie Cinema Join staff from noon-2 pm to watch Ira Gershwin and DuBose Heyward’s operetta, Porgy and Bess. This classic tells the story of a crippled man who is in love with a beautiful, but troubled woman. Beginning at 6 pm, kids of all ages will love Akeelah and the Bee, a new classic about a young girl who learns to believe in herself. Popcorn and soda will be available. All ages welcome. FREE Kentland Community Center 2411 Pinebrook Avenue, Landover 20785 301-386-2278; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 12, 3-4 pm Art Display and Gullah Cultural Storytelling View a historical art display and listen to a “Gullah” story. Gullah stories reflect the traditions of West African and European cultures, which came together in the Sea Island communities of South Carolina and Georgia. Ages 6-11; FREE Patuxent Community Center 4410 Bishopmill Drive, Upper Marlboro 20772 301-780-7577; TTY 301-203-6030 Friday, February 12, 7 pm Nada Brahma’s “World Music Concert” Join us for an energetic, interactive performance that explores the vital core that music plays in many world cultures. Experience a variety of musical styles and instruments from the Caribbean, Andes Mountains, Central and Southern Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. All ages welcome. FREE Vansville Community Center 6813 Ammendale Road, Beltsville 20705 301-937-6621; TTY 301-445-4512 Friday, February 12, 7-8:30 pm Follow the Drinking Gourd Join a naturalist for a multimedia, star constellation presentation and hike to the lake to observe the evening sky. Before leaving, enjoy some hot cocoa and marshmallows around the campfire. Reservations recommended. Ages 8 & up Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $4 Clearwater Nature Center 11000 Thrift Road, Clinton 20735 301-297-4575; TTY 301-699-2544 Friday, February 12, 7-10 pm Xtreme Teens/Pre-Teens: Open Mic Night Area teens will share their visions of the past, present and future. Prizes will be awarded for best original readings. Light refreshments served. This program is open to Prince George’s County residents only. Ages 10-17; FREE w/M-NCPPC Youth ID Baden Community Center 13601 Baden-Westwood Road, Brandywine 20613 301-888-1500; TTY 301-203-6030 Saturday, February 13, 11 am-12:30 pm Black History Storyteller Enjoy a visit from Baba Jamal, a great storyteller of African American history. Light refreshments will be available. All ages welcome. FREE Berwyn Heights Community Center 6200 Pontiac Street, Berwyn Heights 20740 301-345-2808; TTY 301-445-4512 Saturdays, February 13 & 21, 12 noon-4 pm or Tours by appointment only The Mount Calvert Historical and Archaeological Park Exhibit features American Indian, early colonial and African American history. By the mid-1800s, 51 enslaved African Americans lived and worked at Mount Calvert Plantation. View the on-site exhibit “A Confluence of Three Cultures.” 16801 Mount Calvert Road Upper Marlboro 20772 301-627-1286; TTY 301 699-2544 Saturday, February 13, 1:15 pm Xtreme Teens/Pre-Teens: Frederick Douglass House Trip Visit the home of the “Sage of Anacostia” and learn about his fight against slavery and for civil rights. All participants must have a signed permission slip and M-NCPPC Youth ID. Ages 10-17; FREE Suitland Community Center 5600 Regency Lane, Forestville 20747 301-736-3518; TTY 301-203-6030 Saturday, February 13, 1:30-3 pm Lions of Industry, Mothers of Invention Unknown history is revealed as we learn about the giants of African American business and innovation. Learn about hair care entrepreneur Madame C.J. Walker and about the paintings of agricultural chemist George Washington Carver, who made over 300 products from the peanut. ‘Host’ Booker T. Washington leads the discussion through mixed media and audience participation. All ages welcome. FREE Stephen Decatur Community Center 8200 Pinewood Drive, Clinton 20735 301-297-4648; TTY 301-203-6030 Saturday, February 13, 2-4 pm Buffalo Soldiers’ Reception Join us for a reception honoring Buffalo Soldiers who were members of the historic 92nd Infantry Division from WWII. Many of these men made their homes in Prince George’s County, including Richard Johnson, William Gray, Joseph Stephenson, and Captain Charles H. Lancaster, one of the few black commissioned officers during WWII. Other Buffalo Soldiers from the region include Howard Fletcher, Albert Burke, Joseph Hairston, and Norris Bucksell. These men were featured in the 2008 People Magazine photo spread honoring Spike Lee’s movie, Miracle at St. Anna. The reception will include a presentation of the Governor’s Proclamation. All ages welcome. FREE Cedar Heights Community Center 1200 Glen Willow Drive, Seat Pleasant 20743 301-773-8881; TTY 301-218-6768 Saturday, February 13, 5-7 pm Black History Extravaganza Watch the unique talents of African dancers and drummers, and enjoy songs, stories, and poetry readings as we celebrate these influential aspects of African American culture. Door prizes will be awarded and light refreshments served. All ages welcome. Fee: Resident $3; Non-Resident $6 Glassmanor Community Center 1101 Marcy Avenue, Oxon Hill 20745 301-567-6033; TTY 301-203-6030 Saturday, February 13, 7-9 pm Step into Africa with an African Dance Show Be part of the festivities as we celebrate Black History Month. Watch a performance by African dancers as they bring the tribes and heritage of Africa to the audience. All ages welcome. Fee: Resident $5; Non-Resident $7 Marlow Heights Community Center 2800 St. Clair Drive, Marlow Heights 20748 301-423-0505; TTY 301-203-6030 Sponsored by: THE MARYLAND-NATIONAL CAPITAL PARK AND PLANNING COMMISSION 6600 Kenilworth Avenue, Riverdale, MD 20737 • 301-699-2255 Who's trying to go to the drinking gourd event with me on Friday the 12th? (3 bucks in Clinton) :) -Dawn J. exposing what I come across. Amidst all the lovely good that is being done in the world there is far greater evil counter acting that good. Not a good theme to live in but indeed it exists. I myself try to create a bubble that keeps negativity away from me. Some don't exercise their own ability to keep harm out of their life. By either surrounding yourself with non healthy folk or just plainly not valuing yourself! So Kadesh, our youth Ambassador, witnessed a horrific scene as she was walking with friends from her high school. Her eyes and heart were affected to the point she wrote a poem. Here are her words: Violence What is violence? Violence is the aggression on others violence is the brutality on children Violence is the cruelty on animals Violence is the pain a girl suffers from sexual abuse What is violence? Violence is the bloodshed of our loved ones, wounded by the bullets from guns or the stabs from pocketknives Violence is the lives lost fighting for our country Violence is the loss trying to protect themselves and their children from terrorists Violence is the pain people suffer from something they can't get rid of. What is violence? Violence is the attacks that, out of no where, come straight at you Violence is the feeling you get not celebrating a holiday Violence is the pain you feel when you see violence on other people That's what violence is.... disrespectful Kadesha: I wrote this poem because I saw a brutal fight outside my house and the girl was covered in blood. I like blood and all, but this was sick. That's what inspired me to write this poem, not the fight, but the pain I saw in that girl's eyes.The pain represented guilt like she started the fight, which she didn't, and her life is over. By the way, she's still in the hospital, I got to see her the other day. *Kadesha,15, attends a high school in NE DC and is our youth ambassador; she works hard spreading our message in the teen world! Dawn J. Tree's need nurturing! Has anybody ever told you to wake up? I'm sure at some point in your life, you have. I often have to tell myself to wake up, out of a conscious sleep I'm in. Rev. Erika told us to wake up yesterday in the most humbling way. After walking through her home, which is known as the Awakening Spiritual Worship Center, she greeted us with her words of conceiving a dream to birthing a dream. I was, we were, every individual sitting in the living room of her home were helping her birth her dream. Yes, yesterday was the first official service of the Awakening movement! Yes I know we are leery of movements, religion, spirituality and what you may open yourself up to, period. But as Rev. Erika's daughter read an excerpt from a book she owned from a man who was quoting the book of Psalm's (I believe) I obtained better words to describe what it means to aid a movement. She read aloud to us and this is the just of what I got: That if you were not apart of a movement, indeed you were sleeping and not aiding in progressive energy. ha. I really would like her to read it again. But I'm not quoting. Not that every movement should be something you jump on but if it spiritually feels right, explore it! Check out the wonderful scene. DJ Village Child graced the ones and twos with heartfelt beats from neo-soul, spiritual, to soul period. I dug your energy! Meditation slowed our souls when we immediately got there. I must admit it was so soothing I almost fell asleep but it definitely centered me to the point where I could take in the wonderful words of Rev. Erika.
I mean how many places can you fellowship and feel like you know everybody once you leave? Yup, I know right! :) -Dawn J. Exposing and finding roots everywhere! |