Last Sunday at Malcolm X. Park Drum & Dance Circle

Not having been to the Sunday Drum and Dance Circle at Malcolm X. Park since Sunday, 4 May 2008 I was so looking forward to the occasion.

I started last Sunday with an omelett and spam sandwich that I fixed at the apartment before heading to the Best Buy at the DCUSA Columbia Heights Shopping Mall to purchase a Dirt Devil vacuum cleaner.

On my way there and back I took pictures and shot footage in connection with my WMATA "Take Me Out To The Ball Game" series. Including this clip of 3 guys who I met on the Green Line when I was returning to SW with the Dirt Devil.

After dropping the Dirt Devil at my apartment in SW, I'd quickly head back out to the Waterfront - SEU Station and take the subway to Dupont Circle.

When en route to Malcolm X. Park that I passed through Dupont Circle I inquired of Maestro Darrold Hunt if he cared to accompany me to Malcolm X. Park for the Sunday Drum and Dance Circle. In the midst of rehearsing for an upcoming concert, he declined.

As I walked up Connecticut Avenue to R Street, across R to 18th, up 18th to U, across U to 16th and up 16th Street ... taking pictures along the way ... I was so longing forward to the Drum and Dance Circle at Malcolm X. Park.

As I entered the lower level formal garden from the corner of 16th and W Street I observed a group of Capoeira Angola performers across the garden near the 15th and W Street entrance. In the past I had observed them on the upper level ... just yards from the Drum and Dance Circle which, in the past, had been staged at the level corner of the upper level.

As I ascended the stairway and water fountain cascade to the upper level ... nothing could have prepared me for what I was yet to come.

Not only where two different groups of drummers and dancers at opposite sides of the upper level but, in the field there were slackropers on the left, jump ropers on the right and families of soccer player and frisbee throwers in the center.

I spent the next two or more hours going back and forth, in between and from side to side ... capturing the Sunday 3 August 2008 Drum & Dance Circle in Malcolm X, Park.

When departing shortly after 6:30 pm that I descended down the fountain cascade and stairway to the lower level garden on the 15th Street side, I remembered when arriving at the May 2008 session that I ran into a white lady who was in town from Minnesota and who, apparently, had happened upon the event just by chance.

Having witnessed it for several hours, saying that though she did not want to leave ... the experience was just "so exhausting ... yet exhilirating!"

Which is exactly how I felt after my visit to the Sunday 3 August 2008 Malcolm X. Park Drum & Dance. "Exhilirated but exhausted!"

Here are the 15 video chips that I shot.

• Video #1
• Video #2
• Video #3
• Video #4
• Video #5
• Video #6
• Video #7
• Video #8
• Video #9
• Video #10
• Video #11
• Video #12
• Video #13
• Video #14
• Video #15

While there are several more photos to upload there is the Malcolm X. Park Drum & Dance Circle - Sunday, 3 August 2008 photo album.

Exhausted. But, exhilirated!

The Urban Philharmonic Society Presents "Mozart's Jupiter Symphony" Concert a the Imani Temple / Capitol Hill on Sunday, 17 August 2008

click image for details

Maestro Darrold Hunt prepares for Urban Philharmonic Society's 17 August performance of "Mozart's Jupiter Symphony" at Imami Temple on Capitol Hill

When en route to the Drum & Dance Circle at Malcolm X. Park on Sunday afternoon, 3 August 2008, that I passed through Dupont Circle, I had the pleasure of capturing Maestro Darrold Hunt who as the founder and conductor of the Urban Philharmonic Society was rehearsing for the Sunday, 17 August 2008 performance of "Mozart's Jupiter Symphony".

While I have observed Mr. Hunt for over 30 years since we travel in some of the same circles it was not until I began to photograph in Dupont Circle beginning in 1992 that I became more familar with him.

It was in connection with my ongoing People in Dupont Circle Project which was launched in October 2006 that when passing through Dupont Circle on Sunday I snapped more than a few photos of Darrold Hunt, focusing mostly on his hands. It was during this time that he handed me a flyer pertaining to the Sunday, 17 August 2008 Urban Philharmonic Society "Mozart's Jupiter Symphony" event.

A graduate in conducting of the Juilliard School of Music, Maestro Hunt served for four years as Assistant Conductor of the Baltimore Symphony and three years as the conductor/music director of the Conservatory Orchestra at the Brooklyn College School of Performing Arts.

He has been guest conductor of the National Symphony, The Detroit Symphony, The Pensacola Symphony and many others, as well.

Since its founding in 1970 the Urban Philharmonic Society has proven to be one of the most exciting new ventures in the symphonic field. After graduating the Juilliard School, Maestro Hunt embarked on creating a musical institution which had as its primary commitment the presentation of programs of musical excellence to those areas of the urban community which for social and/or political reasons have not enjoyed live professional orchestral concerts as a part of their lives.

To learn more about Maestro Darrold Hunt and the Urban Philharmonic Society visit the website.

Tickets for the 17 August 2008 "Mozart's Jupiter Symphony" Concert at the Imani Temple on Capitol Hill can be purchased here.

General Admissionis at $25. Students & Seniors at $20. On-line tickets are $20. The event will take place at 4 pm on Sunday, 17 August 2008 at the IMANI TEMPLE ON CAPITOL HILL at 609 Maryland Avenue, NE, Washington DC.

Click the above image to view my ongoing Maestro Darrold Hunt (People / Dupont Circle) photo set.

WHITE PARTY this Saturday at C9 in REHOBOTH features DJ Jason Horswill

click image for details

DJ Tony Moran to spin at TOWN's first RED PARTY this Saturday

This Saturday, 9 August 2008, many party-goers will be decked out in red as TOWN BOUTIQUE holds MOULIN ROUGE, its first Red Party.

Featuring the music of DJ Tony Moran, dance production performances by X-Faction Dance Company, an airbrush-tattoo artist to decorate your body, and downstairs music by BacK2bACk ... doors will open at 9 pm.

$12 from 9 -11 pm and $15 after 11 pm.

For more details visit TOWN's E-News dated Monday, 4 August 2008.

Image of Tony Moran by Elvert Barnes is from the March 2007 Winter Party Festival's Beach Party.

Some say Nike ain't right for their new ad campaign

A lot of people are saying Nike's new crotch-in-your-face ad campaign is homophobic. What do you think?

Here is what I think.

GREAT AD! I don't see it as 'homophobic'!
Two THUMBS UP!
Posted by:Elvert Barnes August 01, 2008 at 05:17 PM

and

If anything ... its more HOMO-EROTIC than HOMO-PHOBIC!
Posted by:Elvert Barnes August 01, 2008 at 05:31 PM

Click the image above to read the entire PlanetOut.com article and to post your comment.

Friday's Photo of the Week - 31 August 2008

Nicolas F Shi Artist Studio . 1500 P Street, NW, WDC

Thursday evening, 31 July 2008

Windows - P Street, NW, WDC (2008)

Fridays' Photos of the Week / 2008

Dorothy, Toto & the Mayor of Munchkinland Makes Special Appearance at Last Nights Screening of The Wizard of Oz at Stead Park

Though when I left the apartment it had been my intention to attend last night's Summer Movie Mania screening of the Wizard of Oz! at Stead Park as I strolled down 17th Street from Q Street and reflected on my experiences, over the years, when I have attended such things or, for that matter, stopped in at the gay bars ... I decided to head home.

However, on my way down 17th Street, I did have the pleasure of running into Dorothy, Toto and the Mayor of Munchkinland who, having just exited from JR's was en route to Stead Park. Here is the video clip.

Perhaps, I'll attend the last event of this season on 28 August 2008 when Goonies will be screened.

Steve waters the Steve & Phil's Flower & Weed Garden at Dupont Circle East - 31 July 2008

Though I had noticed it many times before, it was during a February 2006 Historic Dupont Circle Main Street photo walk that I learned that the little garden just west of the Sulgrave Club situated in the Dupont Circle East traffic triangle intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and P Street in NW Washington DC was referred to as Steve and Phil's Garden. Realizing that it was also the work and effort of Steve and Phil ... in connection with my ongoing Community Gardens series ... when passing through the area since then I have often made a point to photograph it.

As was the case on Thursday evening, 31 July 2008, that I'd video-taped Steve watering the flower and weed garden.

Though I have 'noticed' Steve many times at Dupont Circle, over the years, I did not know until Thursday evening, 31 July 2008, that he was the Steve of Steve and Phill who attended to the garden.

Now that I know that ... I'll pay even more attention to what I refer to as Steve & Phil's Flower & Weed Garden at DupontCircle East.

Click the above to view my 31 July 2008 video of Steve watering the garden.

Rick Castro's Antebellum Gallery presents AUTOMOLOVE: car culture with a kink! opening this Saturday, 2 August in LA

Click above image for Google Document w/ details from various sources and info pertaining to severaal exhibitors.

Theo Eastwind advances to Round One in NYC Sound Tracks Competition at MSG / Channel 27

Troubadour Theo Eastwind who I captured at the 1350 Connecticut Avenue Complex / Dupont Circle South in January 2007 is amongst the 8 finalists in the NYC Sound Tracks Competition which is hosted by MSG - Channel 27.

"NYC Sound Tracks" is an eight-episode series that goes underground to find the most talented New York City subway musicians. Tapping into the literal ground level of the music industry, these subway musicians play their souls out trying to make a living and hoping for their big break. The winner, as chosen by the viewers via www.MSG.com, will have the opportunity to play as an opening act on the stage of one of Madison Square Garden's prestigious venues.

Over the first three episodes of the series, MSG's cameras scoured the NYC subway system in an extensive search that offered viewers an inside look into the culture and lifestyle of the underground musician, resulting an open call audition where 16 performers were selected to compete in the "NYC Sound Tracks" competition which took place on Sunday night, 27 July 2008.

Here are episodes #1, #2 and #3. After competing in Sunday night's Open Call competition featuring 16 finalists, Theo Eastwind is amongst the 8 finalists that will advance to the 10 August 2008 Round 1 Episode.

Five Boroughs, 16 Musicians, One Superstar ... the search for NYC's best underground sound is on.

And troubadour Theo Eastwind is amongst the 8 finalists.

Paul van Dyk at Hudson River Park's Pier 54 / NYC - 16 August 2008 (Afterparty at Webster Hall / Brooklyn)

Friday's Photo of the Week . 18 July 2008

Himmarshee Street . Fort Lauderdale, FL . 14 July 2008

2008 Friday's Photo of the Week

Elvert Barnes in JibJab's "Time For Some Campaignin'

Rosen's Prestige Automotive's Hydrogen Conversion Kit featured on Fort Lauderdale's Local 10 News

When on Monday afternoon that we stopped in at Rosen's Prestige Automotive to have the car checked underneath to make sure that there were no damages after an almost acccident at the airport on Friday afternoon, after a friendly greeting by owner Robert Rosen he would inquire if we had seen them on TV.

When we replied that we had not he directed us to a computer screen situated at the receptionist counter and showed us a video feature that recently aired on South Florida's Local 10 News regarding Rosen's Prestige Automotive's Hydrogen Converstion Kit.

While hydrogen conversion kits are readily available online it is my suggestion that unless you are an automobile mechanic that you seek the services of a reputable automotive company such as Rosen's Prestige which is considered as one of the best automotive repair businesses in the Fort Lauderdale FL area.

Regardless, you may wish to read Are Hydrogen Conversion Kits a Scam? by Michael Cooper to gain a better understanding of what hydrogen conversion kits are.

Click the above image to view my Rosen's Prestige Automotive album which also includes a few images of their classic cars collection. See also Rosen's Prestige Automotive at Yelp.

Visit Rosen's Prestige Automotive at their website or at 600 West Broward Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale FL. Telephone 954-467-2234. Email at CarCare@rosensprestige.com.

"Herb Gentry & Friends" Opening Reception THIS FRIDAY at Parish Gallery in Georgetown

Opening this Friday, 18 July 2008 at the Parish Gallery in Georgetown with a 6 till 8 pm reception will be the Herb Gentry & Friends Exhibition that will feature the work not only of Herb Gentry but also of Richard Mayhew, Nannette Carter, Ed Clark and others.

The exhibition will run through 30 August 2008. Click the image above to view a larger version of the flyer that I have compiled from flyers that Herb Gentry's widow Mary Anne Rose furnished me.

The flyer features a letter from Mary Anne Rose with details regarding the event as well as a more complete list of other artsts whose work will be featured in the 18 July through 30 August 2008 HERB GENTRY & FRIENDS EXHIBITION at PARISH GALLERY in Georgetown.

The Parish Gallery / Georgetown is located at 1054 31st Street in NW Washington DC. Telephone at 202-944-2310.

Unfortunately, already in Fort Lauderdale I will not be able to attend.

Friday's Photo of the Week - 11 July 2008

Mr. Yogato . 1515 17th Street, NW, WDC

The 17th Street / WDC Project

Saturday, 5 July 2008

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Jim Lucio / Defekto E-News: Art Stuff Going On...Trash Cinema, Photo Show..etc - Thursday, 10 July 2008

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to let you know about a couple of things going on.

Tomorrow there is a group photo show that I'm in at the Wind-Up Space called The Fourth Wall and will also feature the work of a bunch of the usual suspects including Joe Giordano, Sam Holden, Eldon Baldwin, Rob Perry, Josh Sisk, et al.

The opening is starts at 7pm and is located at 10-12 W. North Avenue which is right at Charles Street, directly across from New York Fried Chicke.

And NEXT WEEKEND, Saturday and Sunday 19 - 20 July ...yes, Artscape weekend.

Flux Studios and Metro Gallery are joining forces with a show called Sinerama: That's Exploitation!

Click above image for Jim Lucio / Defekto's E-News dated Thursday, 10 July 2008 for more details.

People of Dupont Circle: What's Inside of Werner Jampen's Pants?

Though I had observed Werner Jampen many times before when passing through Dupont Circle and while I now do not recall exactly when it was that we first conversed, in Dupont Circle, I have always remembered him since that first conversation (perhaps a year or so ago) as the artist who spoke of Dallas and Houston as places that he was planning future exhibitions.

So when passing through Dupont Circle on Wednesday afternoon, 2 July 2008, that he suggested that I return with him to his art studio / apartment in Georgetown to view and discuss his "What's Inside The Pants?" collection which he is currently in negotiations with galleries in NYC, the Hamptons, Boston, Dallas, and Houston for future exhibitions ... after joking that I've heard that "... come up and see my etchings ..." line before we took a leisure walk from the Dupont Circle, west on P Street to the rear of his apartment building in the 2500 block of P Street, NW.

During which time he told me a little more about himself. Now 69, originally from Switzerland, when Werner Jampen moved to WDC from NYC in 1972, one of his first exhibitions in WDC was at the Swiss Embassy. Which is where he has exhibited many times, over the years. As well as at other locations throughout the city.

It was also during our walk along P Street that he mentioned that he was in negotiations with the Leslie Lohman Gay Art Foundation in Soho NYC and several galleries in Dallas and Houston TX, including the Main Contemporary Gallery for future exhibitions.

Nearing the rear of his building on P Street he told me of Finnish photographer, Karl Sonio, who held an exhibition of 'out of focus' images projected onto mirrors and glass ... as a means by which to express the fact that the creation of art does not always have be an expensive production but can come from the simpless of the things in life.

And, as an example of his creating art from the simpless of things, once inside his artist studio / apartment, the first works that Werner showed me was his newly started project that involves pouring a small amount of water onto a collage of tissue paper or paper towels that have been embedded into the back of a plastic picture frame that onced dried will then serve as the canvas as well as frame for an abstract oil-painted work of art.

And though I did not photograph nor video-tape the first few minutes of the impromptu get-together in the process of him showing me not only his large collection of "What's Inside The Pants" series but other collections as well ... since such documentation of an artist in his /her studio is amongst my ongoing themes, particularly, when it is my intent to refer the artist to galleries or collectors ... I insisted that I video-tape as much of my visit as possible with him discussing his art.

Currently in the final stages of negotiation with The Main Contemporary Gallery for exclusive representation and exhibition rights to his work in the Dallas and North Texas markets an in discussions with the Leslie/Lohman Gallery in SoHo NYC for future exhibitions, Werner Jampen will be traveling this summer to NYC, The Hamptons, Boston, Houston and Dallas for summer 2008 exhibitons and to finalize plans for future ones.

Having founded the Werner Jamper Foundation in 2007 which will curate his large collection as well as develop creative avenues by which the work of unknown but talented artists may be introduced to the world, Werner Jampen can be reached by telephone at 202-965-1503.

To get a glimpse of what's inside of Werner Jampen's pants ... you, simply MUST, FIRST, EXPERIENCE HIS ART!

While "What's Inside The Pants" derived from his fascination with Texas, as you can see, Werner Jampen's art and exploration of powerful and provocative themes has no bounds.

Drawing on Nina Simone's "Strange Fruit" and through paintings depciting 'racial themes' he's currently in the process of a series that will speak on the issue of lynching!

People of Dupont Circle: Wadey, aka 'Marilyn Monroe'

Born in Costa Rica in November 1933, 75 year old Wadey, also known as Marilyn Monroe was a fixture at Mr. P's which opened in 1975 or 76 as the first gay bar in the Dupont Circle area at 2147 P Street in NW WDC.

In fact, Wadey would inform me during our brief conversation in Dupont Circle on Wednesday evening, 2 July 2008, that he began working for George Dotson and Gene Newsome ... the first owners and operators of Mr. P's ... on the first night of its opening in the coat check.

At the time, working full-time at Helman's Company in the accounting department it was not until after his retirement at 62 that, on a dare, he began to perform in drag at Mr. P's as the infamous Marilyn Monroe. Who, along with James Dean and Elvis Presley, he has always had a fascination with.

Regarding himself as a very patriotic American, Wadey says "Marilyn, Elvis and James Dean" personifies the true America. The America that he fell in love in 1956 when he, his mother and father would visit Washington DC for the wedding of his sister.

Born of wealth to a Lebanese mother and an Italian father who sent him and his sister to private schools in Costa Rica as children, he was much closer to his mother than his father.

It was while she was attending a private University in Washington DC that his sister met her future husband.

While his parents returned to Costa Rica after his sister's wedding in 1956, Wadey did not. Since then he has lived in Washington DC and until recent years would revisit Costa Rica at least once a year.

In addition to diabetes and high blood pressure, now 75, Wadey recently suffered a stroke. Which he as all but recovered from.

When I asked why he chose Marilyn Monroe as his drag persona he replied that it started on a dare shortly after his retirement when a drag party was to be held at Mr. P's. Having had a fascination with Marilyn for many years who he and his mother actually met at a train station when they were traveling in the late 50's or early 60's ... his friends who thought that he had a resemblance to Marilyn suggested that he should go in drag as Marilyn.

And, so he did.

Reminicsing about the good ole days, Wadey spoke highly of George Dotson and Gene Newsome who he said 'took care of and respected people'. While he did not speak badly of John Mako, he expressed that the last owners 'were just into it for the money'. And did not care about the people nor respect him the way Dotson, Newsome and folks of his day did.

When Mr. P's closed its doors in January 2006 or 2007, many of his dresses and other valuables were left in the apartment that he rented above Mr. P's with the understanding that when he recovered from his stroke and other ailments he could pick-up his things. But, unfortunately, in the process of renovation his things were misplaced or disgarded by the contractors.

Which saddens and has angered Wadey!

Robert Lighthouse to appear at 2008 Summer Blues Festival in Sweden

Having captured Delta Blues artist Robert Lighthouse many years ago with 35mm film, as part of my ongoing Street Musicians series, I believe my 2 July 2008 Robert Lighthouse at the 1350 Connecticut Avenue Complex at Dupont Circle South series represents the first time that I have captured him on video.

During which time I also purchased his Deep Down In the Mud cd. And, as a result, will purchase other cds of music.

Delta Blues artist Robert Lighthouse is one of the many artists featured at this summer's 4-day Åmål's Blues Fest in Sweden. Here is the English translation.

His website indicates that his Amals Blues Festival schedule is as follows:

Thursday, 10 July from 21.00 to 22.00 at Cafe Örnäs
Friday, 11 July Blues Breakfast at Cafe Örnäs from 9.30 to 11.00
Friday, 11 July Blues Train (next to Bluesterminalen) from 15.00 to 17.45
Saturday, 12 July Blues Train (next to Bluesterminalen) from 13.00 to 15.45

The Original Soul Invaders perform on 42nd Smithsonian Folklife Festival Closing Day

I would not have revisited the 42nd Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival had it not been that I wanted to pick-up two official 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival tee-shirts (one for Richard and the other for me). Which after much searching over the past two seasons I have not been able to locate at its Folkways online store.

In the past I have visited the Festival a number of times during each summer season, this year, as a result of the 25 June 2008 incident which was not unlike similar incidents in 2007, 2006 and 2005 nor incidents that I experience when documenting the annual National Police Week, Race For The Cure or the various GLBT Pride events ... I purposely did not document the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival nor the Independence Day Parade.

Returning home after my 4 July 2008 photo walk through Dupont Circle and along P Street I ran into a lady who lives in my apartment complex that mentioned that she was just getting in from an almost nine hour day of volunteering at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival's Market Place. It was during that conversation that when I inquired if the tee-shirts were available online that she informed me that they were not.

It was then and there that I decided that I would revisit the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival on Sunday, its closing day, to pick up a couple of tee-shirts.

I'm almost sure that my Sunday visit would not necessarily have been an 'in your face' direct action' had I not received the email that I did from a white man whose book I am in the process of reading who tried to tell me that, perhaps, my perspective about racism is not what it is.

And, as I subwayed to the Festival I reflected on my experiences over the past 40 some years when others had tried to convince me of the exact same thing. Only to realize years later that what I had expressed or suspected at the time that it was or was not was more true than the lies or misconceptions that they had misled me to believe.

So, as I captured The Original Soul Invaders performance on the Dancehall Stage at the 42nd Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival closing day in a similar way that I captured opening day, not only was that email reverberating through my thoughts so was the incident that had occurred on opening day.

Here is the video.

Alfredo Hernandez's Drum Circle "Lesson" at Dupont Circle last Sunday

Though I was not at Dupont Circle for long this past Sunday while there I made a point to capture a variety of scenarios in connection my ongoing Sundays at Dupont Circle Project, including this photographer in action.

Though, over the past two years I sometimes have ventured to Malcolm X. Park at Meridian Hill for the Sunday afternoon Drum & Dance Circle my introduction to the Drum Circle scene in DC is rooted in Alfredo Hernandez's sessions and often lessons that he and others in his network have held on Sunday afternoon in Dupont Circle.

Which I have captured dating back to 1994. Perhaps, before!

Realizing now that the Dupont Circle sessions are sometimes lessions held by Alfredo Hernandez and others in his network ... my focus when capturing the Drum Circle in Dupont Cirlce this past Sunday was to depict Hernandez and others in the process of mentoring, instructing and teaching.

Click the above image to view my Drum Circle - Dupont Circle - 29 June 2008 photoset.

The videos are as follows:

• Video #1
• Video #2
• Video #3

Music That I'm Listening To: Julie Clark's FEEL FREE

In turn for having sent her a cd of the video footage and photography images that I took of her during the Capital Pride Festival, songwriter Julie Clark sent me a copy of her debut cd entitled Feel Free.

Which, since its arrival last Friday evening, I've listened to many times. Often repeating One Of These Days, The Naked Song, Think Too Much, Your Wings and She's Movin' On. Especially, One Of These Days ... over and over again.

When I first listened to FEEL FREE while fixing dinner last Friday evening I kept thinking that she reminds me of another artist but could not put my thumb on who it was.

Then, eating dinner and taking the time to glance at the lyrics while listening to the cd ... it dawned on me.

Julie Clark, in particular, her songwriting reminded me of Carole King. Who I had just saw a few nights before on one of the late night talk shows discussing that she her recent re-emergence and soon to be launched The Living Room Tour.

FEEL FREE by Julie Clark is a cd that I be listening to for a long, long time. And many times over!

I Hate Shopping At Whole Foods

For more than two weeks I had searched the dairy section at the Safeway at Waterfront Mall for Monterey Pepper Jack Cheese which, living in SW DC since November 2001, is where I have purchased it many times over the years.

Planning to mix up a batch of ground beef for burgers for Sunday's dinner and the weeks leftovers before leaving the apartment for my 29 June 2008 Sunday photo walk I made a mental note to stop in at the Whole Foods on P Street, during my walk, to pick up some monterey pepper jack cheese.

And when I say a mental note I usually will say the world outloud or jot int down into my note pad which is deliberate on my part so as to register the thought in my brain making it more likely that I will forget.

Not even a second would pass after registering "Monterey Pepper Jack Cheese - Whole Foods Market" did the words or thought but more flashback "I hate shopping at Whole Foods" spiral through my head.

My white friends talk about how they love shopping at Whole Foods or brag about how this one and that one cruised them at the DC Eagle or the fabulous time they had at some circuit party or the bath house my reflections which haunting similar to those that flashed before on Sunday afternoon when I contemplated stopping in a Whole Foods for some Monterey Pepper Jack Cheese.

While Whole Foods may be organic and eco-inclined and have received awards for one of the best places to work ... from the very first moment that they saw me, a black man, walk through door their first, last and after thought was to oversee, police, watch, and stalk me.

In the exact same way that when I visited the DC Eagle the night before that they watched my ever move that they have watched my ever move since my first visit to the first DC Eagle almost 30 years ago. If after 30 years I can not walk into the DC Eagle or on my job without being overseen, policed, stalked at every along the way ... Independence Day does not mean to me, a black man ... what it means to you.

But, shopping at Whole Foods is no different than shopping at Safeway. If I can not walk into the Safeway at Waterfront without being targeted the problem is not me. Nor has it ever been me. The problem, at least from where I stand is you!

If you were me or I were you ... what would you do!

I hate shopping at Whole Foods but Safeway, too!

The problem, for me ... has always been you!

Diverse Markets Management Announces Debut of Annual Fall Crystal City Markets

On Friday, 27 June 2008 I received an E-Newsletter from Diverse Markets Management which announced the September 2008 debut of the new annual fall Crystal City Market in Arlington VA.

Operating every Thursday through Saturday for 6 weeks, it will open Thursday, 18 September, and will run for a total of 18 days ending on Saturday, 25 October. Hours will be from 11:30 am - 6:30 pm each day. Additionally, there will be two special event Sunday markets in coordination with Vintage Crystal, a wine festival, on Sunday, 21 September and the Marine Corps Marathon’s leg through Crystal City on Sunday, 26 October.

Click above Crystal Market / Crystal City logo for details.

The Sergeant of Dupont Circle Memorial to Little Freddy

Since first meeting and capturing The Sergeant of Dupont Circle last August seldom to I not pass through Dupont Circle without looking for him. In recent months he has suggested that we shoould collaborate of one or two stories which I am contemplating.

But as I told him, it is not my intention nor practice to tell the story of others but more that my photography is about capturing 'a moment in time'. And since an image of 'a moment in the time of one's life could not ever tell the whole story nor could I ever attempt to tell another's story based on the few moments in each of our lives that we shared.

However, it is often my hope that when a subject views an image that I took of them that they may will then reflect on what they were experiencing or feeling at the time. And, perhaps, be inspired to 'write their own story' through the image (s) that I took of them.

Getting involved in the lives of others for the purpose of telling their story is something that does not fascinate nor interest me. I can't image having another person telling my story. Nor them telling mine!

Each time that I take on such projects it actually opens myself up for other people to enter into my life. Which is something that I am very cautious of. Equally as cautious as 'entering into the life of another person. I do not enter into the lives of other people. Nor do I want other people to invite themselves into my life.

With that having been said, if I take the time to document or capture a moment in time of your life that neither infers nor suggests that you have any claim to me nor do I have any claim to you. We simply crossed paths and that is that.

I say this because it has been my experience, as a black male, that when people see me they see me as their project and a means by which they can get something that has no connection to me. But, more accurately stated ... someone that they will henceforth oversee and police.

But that they will attempt to convince me that they are 'doing it for me' or for some cause to better or save the world.

So, each time that The Sergeant suggests that we should collaborate on projects pertaining to homeless veterans, I am reminded of the many different articles, issues and causes that I have reported on and supported, over the years, ... many which have no connection to me.

And, yet, as a 50 something black male, I can not tell you how many veterans, civil servants and government agents have 'come through me' over the past 35 to 40 years ... feeding through black men. Many who may now be veterans but were then in the miltary. Many who now may have retired from law enforcement, federal or state positions but who, then were civil servants.

And their relationship with me now is the same as it was then but, then ... I did not realize that they saw me and other black men ... just as their ... project!

When during my 29 June 2008 Sunday photo walk that I passed through Dupont Circle, the Sergeant asked that I photograph is memorial to Little Freddy, a sterling, that died in his hands after being attacked in the park by several black birds.

The Sergeant said that he had been taking care of Little Freddy since its birth ... almost two months ago. And that the injury in the palm of his right hand resulted when during the attack upon Little Freddy that he attempted to fight off the black birds.

Since his arrival to Dupont Circle last summer, The Sergeant has gone out of his way to establish a network of other homeless people, many who are veterans, that assist and look out for each other.

He refers to this network as 'family'.

I like that about him.

Venue Change for Champions (Dance on the Pier Afterparty)

The Saint-At-Large announces that CHAMPIONS: The Official Afterparty of Dance on the Pier benefiting HERITAGE OF PRIDE will now be held at one of New York's most spectacular venues, THE CAPITALE.

Click image for details.

Melange Lavonne's performance at Capital Pride Festival 2008 still reverberating in my head!

Since having heard Melange Lavonne at the 15 June 2008 Capital Pride Festival the voice, the lyrics, the activism and the beauty of the Lesbian Hip Hop artist has been on my mind.

And reverberating in my head!

While I do not have the time, right now, to delve into the impression that she has made upon me ... since the purpose of this posting is to provide you with links to various videos and images that I shot of Melange Lavonne performing at the Main Stage during the 2008 Capital Pride Festival, hopefully, I'll find the time later to give her a proper review.

The above photosets which are included in my 33rd Annual Capital Pride / 2008 collection and along with the following videos are accessable from my 33rd Annual Capital Pride - WDC / 2008 webpage:

• Video #1/4 featuring Gay Bash
• Video #2 & 3/4 featuring Gay Parenting & Gay Marriage
• Video #4 featuring The Game

Metro Weekly's 5 June 2008 article Mixing It Up by Doug Rule sheds light on her story.

In addition to writing songs, dabbling in music production and touring with HomoRevolution 2008, Melange has also done some modeling and acting and is attending school, majoring in graphic design with a minor in business marketing.

Having released her first cd, Melange, in 2006 ... her sophomore effort, The Movement, which I believe was released in April 2008 ... is receiving raved reviews.

I am almost certain that once you hear her music and listen to her lyrics or witness her performance ... you, too, will not be able to 'get Melange Lavonne out of your head'.

And like so many others, including me ... wishing and hoping for her next project.

Check out her website and myspace.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 27 June 2008

Commuters . VRE L'Enfant Station

The Southwest Federal Center Project

7th Street between Maryland Avenue and C Street

SW WDC . Wednesday, 25 June 2008

Friday's Photo of the Week

Les Amis Creole Trio at 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival

When leaving the Opry House Tent on Wednesday, 25 June 2008, and after having just captured Texas Johnny Brown & the Quality Blues Band and Los Texmaniacs a man named Sidney who along with many others I have documented many times over the years dancing at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival walked up to me and thanked me for the images and videos (some depicting him) that I posted on Flickr, You Tube and Google Video from the 2006 and 2007 Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

He suggested that we head over to the Dancehall Tent which was where many of the folks that I've captured in past years were dancing

To my delight, I thoroughly enjoyed myself as I captured folks dancing to the Gulf Texas region music of the Les Amis Creole Trio from Beaumont, Texas.

Led by veteran fiddler and accordionist Ed Poullard, this trio ... includes James Adams and Lawrence Ardoin ... draws its inspiration from old-style French songs of the upper Gulf Coast. They expertly play and preserve a traditional repertoire of waltzes, ballads, and two-steps. Featuring the acoustic interplay of diatonic accordion, fiddle, guitar, and voice, their music is homemade, with an Afro-French twist.

I throughly enjoyed myself until when at the conclusion of their performance that, another white person approached me the way white people do "... when they see black men ..." and started to rant something about unless I had press credentials that, perhaps, I should not be video-taping.

And though I observe many white people and Asians with all kinds of cameras and video-recorders seldom is there a time that white folks and sometimes Asians do not approach me the exact same way as did that white man.

As a 50 something black man who, over the years, practiced integration and who experience the racsim everywhere that I've gone I turned and said "White man, please. I'm 54 ... years old. You don't tell me what I can or can not do!"

After that incident at the Dancehall, I headed home and in continued to document Washington DC, from the perspective of a black man, by focusing on several ongoing projects, including the VRE L'Enfant Station, the Southwest Federal Center - 7th Street, SW, the Marcel Breuer designed HUD Building and a view of the 14th Street Rush Hour Traffic from the 7th Street, SW, overpass.

Since having first seen on TV in the summer of 2001 Gordon Parks' "Solomon Northup's Odyssey - Twelve Years a Slave" when ever I now see a fiddler as was the case on Wednesday, 25 June 2008, that I captured the Les Amis Creole Trio ... I can not help but reflect on my experiences and those of Soloman Northrup.

Click the above image to view my Les Amis Creole Trio - 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival photoset and 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival collection which are accessable from my 42nd Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival / WDC webpage.

Here are the videos that I shot of the Les Amis Creole Trio during my 25 June 2008 visit to the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

• Video #1/5
• Video #2/5
• Video #3/5
• Video #4 & 5/5

Los Texmaniacs at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Another excellent group of Texas entertainers that you do not want to miss at this year's 42nd Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival are the Los Texmaniacs, from San Antionio, TX.

Max Baca, David Farias, Lorenzo Martinez and Israel Villanueva, a contemporary-sounding conjunto ensemble, Los Texmaniacs combine traditional instrumentation and repertoire, with blues, rock, R&B, and a dash of country. Leader Max Baca is a much-in-demand bajo sexto player whose music echoes that of his many genre-bending San Antonio mentors—legendary musicians like Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, and Flaco Jimenez.

All of which can be accessed from my 42nd Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival webpage, here is my Los Texmaniacs - 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival photoset and 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival photo collection.

The following are videos that I shot of Los Texmaniacs during my 25 June 2008 visit to the 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

• Video #1/6
• Video #2/6
• Video #3/6
• Video #4/6
• Video #5/6
• Video #6/6

Texas Johnny Brown at Smithsonian Folklife Festival

The first act that I had the pleasure of capturing on the Wednesday afternoon, 25 June 2008 during Opening Day of the 42nd Annual Smithsonian Folklfe Festival was Texas Johnny Brown and the Quality Blues Band who, upon my arrival was performing on the Opry House Stage's 2 - 3 pm set.

Though I'm seriously contemplating featuring my 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival to my recently launched ipernity account, for now, here is my Texas Johnny Brown & the Quality Blues Band photoset at Flickr.

And here are videos #1/2 and #2/2 that I shot of Texas Johnny Brown and the Quality Blues Band's 2 - 3pm set on the Opry House Stage.

Then too, though it has been one of ongoing projects since 1993 I am SERIOUSLY CONTEMPLATING NOT RETURNING TO THE 2008 SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL this year as a result the racism that I experience each and every time that white people see black men ...

As a 50 something black man who, over the years, practiced integration ... I'm sick and tired ...!

The Cicruit is Coming to NYC: Masterbeat World Tour hits New York This Friday at Splash - 27 June 2008

DC Cowboys on 'America's Got Talent' TONIGHT

Rebecca Armendariz of The Wash Blade Blog reports that TONIGHT's preview of 'America's Got Talent' new season will feature clips of the DC Cowboys audition session.

Though I have a few more images to upload to my DC Cowboys - Capital Pride Festival - Main Stage - 15 June 2008 photoset here are my four video projects of the DC Cowboys Dance Company's performance during the Capital Pride Festival:

• Video #1/3
• Video #2/3
• Video # 3/3
• Video Compilation (click image above)

Here are my 33rd Annual Capital Pride / WDC (2008) and GLBT Pride Seasons / 2008 documentary pages.

FUNKIN' IT UP at Baltimore's Pride Block Party

My third time for checking out the Baltimore Pride one of the artists that more than caught my attention at the Baltimore Pride 2008 Saturday Block Party was DJ Alex Funk. Who while spinnin' from the Dance Tent at the corner of Cathedral and Eager Streets managed to 'funk up' the crowd with unique mixes of gay anthems, old school soul, some rhythm and blues, a little rock and roll smashed against electronic techno.

Though I have a few more photos to upload of DJ Alex Funk performing at the 2008 Baltimore Pride here is video #1/2 and #2/2 of Alex funkin' up the crowd from the Dance Tent during Saturday's Block Party.

To learn more about DJ Alex Funk visit his website or myspace. Having just finished two busy weeks, in addition to regular appearances at Club Hippo, you can catch him at the Red Maple on Thursdays (gay boys and top 40 remix) and Fridays (international staight crowd and electro/latin/2step).

Click the above image to view my Alex Funk - Dance Tent - Block Party - Baltimore Pride - 21 June 2008 and Block Party - Baltimore Pride - 21 June 2008 photosets which are included in my 2008 Baltimore Pride photo collection.

Here are my 33rd Annual Baltimore Pride and 2008 GLBT Pride Season webpages.

Million DJ March / WDC . 28 - 30 August 2008

Sea Tea's Gay Pride Cruise: Sunday, 29 June 2008

While the summer 2008 Sea Tea's Maiden Voyage With Mateando sets sail tonight featuring DJ Robbie Leslie, there will be three Sea Tea Cruises over next weekend's NYC Pride Celebration.

Saturday, 28 June 2008's MUSCLE BEARS CRUSIE, co-hosted by Pual Skelson, featuring DJ Mark Cicero and apperances by Jonny Mack & RIck Gonzales. $25 in advance / $30 at the gate.

Sunday, 29 June 2008's CRUISE 1: GAY PRIDE CRUISE sailing on Queen of Hearts featuring DJ Robbie Leslie. Performance by Victoria Lace. $25 in advance / $30 at the gate.

Sunday, 29 June 2008's CRUISE 2: THE LATIN CRUISE, co-Hosted by Club Atlantis, sailing on The Star of Palm Beach, featuring DJ Eddie Cruz. $25 in advance / $30 at the gate. Advance Tickets for the Latin Cruise only available from Club Atlantis.

Two events this weekend hosted by Prison Art Gallery are not for the meek!

While TONIGHT's "Eroticon" auction and reception at Busboys & Poets featuring controversial prison art, hosted by Woodhull Freedom Foundation and Prisons Foundation, has hit at least one sour note ... Saturday's free mentoring training workshop at the Prison Art Gallery by ex-prisoner artists and officials from Washington DC area jails and prisons is getting MUCH praise.

Click the above image to read the entire Priosns Foundation / Prison Art Gallery E-Newsletter dated Monday, 16 June 2008.

Singer / Songwriter Julie Clark performs at Capital Pride Festival

Though my 2008 Capital Pride Project is still under construction here the three videos that I shot of singer / songwriter Julie Clark's performance at the Main Stage during Sunday's Festival.

• Video #1/3
• Video #2/3
• Video #3/3

Click the image to view my Julie Clark - Capital Pride Festival - Main Stage / WDC - 15 June 2008 photoset.

John Waters LIVE: One Night Only! - Thursday Night, 26 June 2008 (NYC)

If you are planning a trip to Manhattan for next weekend's NYC Pride Celebration you may wish to arrive in time for the Thursday evening, 26 June 2008 Josh Wood Productions "John Waters - LIVE: One Night Only event.

A benefit for The Stonewall Community Foundation, the JOHN WATERS' "THIS FILTHY WORLD" one-man show is a “vaudeville” act that celebrates the film career and obsessional tastes of the man William Burroughs once called “The Pope of Trash.” Focusing in on Waters’ early negative artistic influences and his fascination with true crime, exploitation films, fashion lunacy, and the extremes of the contemporary art world, this joyously devious monologue elevates all that is trashy in life into a call to arms to “filth followers” everywhere.

Held at the Concert Hall at The New York Society for Ethical Culture, at 9pm on Thursday, 26 June 2008, general admission at $37.50 iincludes a subscription to Time Out New York. Filthy VIP at $100 includes Meet & Greet with John Waters, autographed DVD and reserved seating.