Blues artist Kelley Hunt @ The State Theatre 9 November

Blues-based artist Kelley Hunt who graciously donated the song "The Next Step" to the Peace and Forgiveness CD project will perform at The State Theatre on Thursday, 9 November at 220 N. Washington in Falls Church, Va. For more info call 703.237.0300

Rock the House (and Senate) Phone Party

Party to Win Back Congress

Who: Kimberly F.—fellow MoveOn member
Where: 17th and K (in WDC)
When: Sunday, 29 Oct 2006, 5:00 PM
What: We're getting together at my place to call infrequent Democratic voters in the most important congressional races and remind them to vote. Should be fun, and with just days left, we've all got to do our part.
Bring: Cell phones, chargers, and some Halloween snacks to share if you want. To RSVP click one of the following.

YES, I'll be there.

I'll call from home.

Host a Rock the House (and Senate) Phone Party

AAHA announces 40th Anniversary of Kwanzaa Schedule

As the African Diaspora prepares for the 40th Anniversary of Kwanzaa, the African American Holiday Association (AAHA) continues its mission, since 1989, of educating and empowering communities through its events and media outreach campaign, about the healthy benefits of Kwanzaa for people of African descent. Kwanzaa, the 7 day celebration of family, community and culture, was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an African studies professor during the Black Consciousness Movement.

AAHA's founder/director, Ayo Handy Kendi has celebrated this holiday since 1970. AAHA will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Kwanzaa through its traditional educational outreach campaign in the media, in schools, at public and private workshops, and through holiday health and stress management seminars. Mama Ayo, the Kwanzaa Griot, is available for scheduling at special rates, with the organization encouraging colleges and universities to consider such appearances. The planned, Fall/Winter activities include several public performances (Nov 4, 16, 17), Youth Entrepreneur training (Nov 18), a Harambee Peace Parade, Youth Peace Summit and Moratorium on Violence from Thanksgiving to New Years (Nov 25) ; the 23rd Annual MarketPlace Festival (Dec 16/17) and the Kwanzaa City Celebration on the 1st day of Kwanzaa (Dec 26).

Most events are free and open to the public with suggested donations. Partners and sponsors are still being sought to support AAHA/ YEP for youth crime and violence prevention, the focus for all of its community events.

For schedule details visit www.aaha-info.org or call Rashida Thomas, P.R. (AAHA) or Ayo Handy Kendi at 202-667-2577

MÉLANGE @ FoodBar DC--Oct. 28th

MÉLANGE: THE SERIES - Bringing women and men in the life together

Saturday, 28 October 2006
FOODBAR DC @ 17th & R, NW
10:00pm - 3:00am
$7 or 2 for $10

DJ Impromptu/DJ Damon
House/R&B/Hip Hop
Drink Specials & Coat Check

Attire: Casual Chic (no athletic wear)

October 28 - Masquerade (Costume or Not)

RSVP @ VIP

Rosa Parks (WDC) Funeral Photos Never Before Seen

Rosa Louise Parks was nationally recognized as the "mother of the modern day civil rights movement" in America. Her refusal to surrender her seat to a white male passenger on a Montgomery, Alabama bus, December 1, 1955, triggered a wave of protest December 5, 1955 that reverberated throughout the United States. Her quiet courageous act changed America, its view of black people and redirected the course of history.

One year ago on 24 October 2005 Parks died in her Detroit home of natural causes.

The image to the right was taken on Monday afternoon, 31 October 2005, directly across the street from the Metropolitan African Methodist Church as pallbearers escorted the body of Rosa Parks into the church where a funeral mass/service was held.

On the night before, 30 October 2005, I stood along South Capitol Street between L and I Streets in SE and captured the funeral procession as the body of Rosa Parks was escorted to the US Capitol where it would lay in state until late Monday morning. And as the body of Rosa Parks was escorted from the US Capitol to the M-AME Church I'd also captured the funeral procession in the Penn Quarter area on NW WDC along Pennsylvania Avenue and 7th Street.

My fourth installment of the Rosa Parks Funeral Service in Washington DC would occur just before and as the funeral procession arrived at the M-AME Church. The fifth and final installment captures the conclusion of the funeral service and as the funeral procession departed from the M-AME Church.

On the one year anniversary of Rosa Park's death may I bring your attention to 30 - 31 October 2005 Rosa Parks Funeral (WDC) Photographs Never Before Seen.

My 1997 BRFC Hand/Piano photo selected for jazz pianists György Perczel's 2005 album cover

Last 5 October, I'd learn that my 12th Annual Black Family Reunion Celebration 'Hand & Piano' submission (original photo) had been selected for the October 2005 album cover of Hungarian Jazz Pianist György Perczel's Sub Rosa series (Part 3) entitled ... like Chopin ... play, add to cart, license.

Former President Bill Clinton Receives NLEOMF "Distinguished Service Award"

On Wednesday night, 18 October 2006, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) presented the "2006 Distinguished Service Award" to the Former President Bill Clinton for his leadership and support on behalf of the law enforcement community. "The Distinguished Service Award," the NLEOMF's highest honor, is given annually to an individual or organization that has made a lasting and exceptional contribution to the law enforcement profession.

Dana Ellyn's Open Studio . Sunday, 22 October

Sunday, 22 October, noon-6pm. You are invited to Dana Ellyn's Open Studio. Say 'hi' and have some snacks and see her newest paintings. No need to RSVP. Dana Ellyn's studio is located in the Penn Quarter neighborhood of Washington DC at 916 G Street, NW. Take metro to Gallery Place (exit toward "Galleries") or Metro Center (exit toward 11th & G Street). Click here to view map

Aram, the Angry Left

A pretty regular, 28 year-old tree-huggin', meat-eatin', ex-Navy, agnostic, mountain-bikin', Armenian-Irish, non-PC, kick-boxin', angry-liberal Aram likes pool halls, jazz bars, Irish pubs, ect. and currently works as a tyranical webczar and does a lot of volunteer work on the side. He enjoys reading and writing and is an amature black-and-white photographer.

Able to handle a joke he feels that 'you should be able to as well!"

Having started The Angry Left on a lark it has grown almost out of control.

Wash Blade's 20 October 2006 'Bitch Session'

20 October 2006 Friday's Photo of the Week

Rush Hour Traffic WDC

South Capitol Street @ M Street, SE & SW

Monday, 16 October 2006 @ 5:30 PM

2006 Friday's Photos of the Week

My NYC & Sobo VA photos @ Yahoo Travel

My 25 March 2006 NYC and June 2006 South Boston VA photos featured at Yahoo Travel.

EDGE Philadelphia / Phillygayborhood Newsletter . October 20, 2006

Schmap Washington DC Second Edition Photo Inclusion

27 of my photo(s) that were included in the first edition of the Schmap Washington DC Guide, including the one to the left of Jason Femino taken in Dupont Circle on 18 September 2005, are also featured in the newly released second edition of the Schmap Washington DC Guide.

Mark Lee & ATLAS Thanks LGBT Community, Ends Event Production

Thursday, October 19, 2006 . ATLAS SAYS 'THANK YOU' TO THE WASHINGTON AREA LGBT COMMUNITY FOR 16 YEARS OF SUPPORT in prominent publication print ads AS GROUP CEASES NIGHTLIFE EVENT PRODUCTION due to looming 2007 D.C. MANDATORY SMOKING BAN. Contact: ATLAS InfoLine 202-331-4422

Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation BENEFIT @ CD Release Party . Friday, 3 November

Friday, 3 November 2006, for the ARCHIE EDWARDS BLUES HERITAGE FOUNDATION and CD Release Party for the new CD "SONGS OF PEACE AND FORGIVENESS."

Featuring performances by:

Gaye Adegbalola, Roddy Barnes, Eleanor Ellis, Andra Faye and the Mighty Good Men, Mike Baytop, Ray Kaminsky, BluesWorks, Mark Kinniburgh, MSG - The Acoustic Blues Trio, and special guests.

Proceeds go to help preserve the famous "Archie's Barbershop" in Washington, DC, run by the Archie Edwards Blues Heritage Foundation, winner of The Blues Foundation's 2005 Keeping the Blues Alive Award.

When: Friday, November 3, 8:00 pm
Where: Rodeo Restaurant, 8229 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910-4520, (301) 585-2955. Just blocks from the Metro Redline, with lots of convenient parking.

Ten dollar per person suggested donation; twenty dollars for admission and a CD.

For more information: Jeff Glassie at 301-263-9282; Mike Baytop at (202) 526-7539 or 202-297-3962 or Miles Spicer at (301) 927-6963

Freak House Art @ Warehouse

OPENING RECEPTION
Freak House Art @ Warehouse
October 20th 6-8pm
Show runs October 13-31

Dana Ellyn and Russell U Richards set your funny bone for laughter and pain. Warehouse Gallery presents "Freak House Art". "Cherry Red Productions and The Lobster Boy Revue will join hipster forces to transform the The Warehouse into three floors of frightening and funny fuckedupness."

Warehouse Gallery is located at 1021 7th Street, NW, WDC . 202-783-3933.
Gallery Hours: M-TH 5-10pm, F 5-11pm, S 10am-11pm, Sun noon -8pm
Metro: GalleryPl / Mt Vernon Sq.

PS24 @ Busboys & Poets . Saturday, 21 October

Upon hearing of PS24's Saturday, 21 October performance @ Bus Boys & Poet's Langston Room which is located at 2021 14th Street, NW, WDC I'd upload the remaining photos that I took of PS24 during the 21st Black Family Reunion on the National Mall.

Ps24's debut CD can be purchased at Busboys and Poets Books. Doors at 9 PM, show begins at 10 PM. Cover $5

The Gap (Red) Campaign

GAP (PRODUCT) RED COLLECTION DESIGNED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR AFRICA

Founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver, (RED) Will Raise Money to Help Eliminate AIDS in Africa, on October 13, Gap introduced Gap (PRODUCT) REDTM - a new, limited collection of clothing and accessories for men and women designed to help eliminate AIDS in Africa. As part of Gap’s global partnership with (PRODUCT) RED, half of the profits from sales of the Gap (PRODUCT) RED Collection will go to The Global Fund to finance programs that help women and children affected by HIV/AIDS in Africa.

Near Southeast DC Redevelopment "Old-New" Exhibition

Though I had planned to hang only two historic images from my Near Southeast DC collection since exhibitions can be costly and time consuming at the request of the manager eight Out With the Old & In With the New 'Near Southeast DC Redevelopment' images are now on display at Sizzling Express located at 4th and M Streets, in SE, just across from the Navy Yard.

Since my work is documentary, an online exhibition is currently in development that will shed light on some of the stories behind each picture.

Condolences to Neal Avery in the passing of his mother, Maudine L. Avery

While I did not know Maurine L Avery I have known her son for many years and since 1992 have often photographed him in connection with my ongoing projects Homelessness in WDC and WDC Street Life.

A few weeks ago when I happened upon Neal in Dupont Circle I mentioned to him that it would be my honor to include him in my Naked Truth Project and therefore would like to capture him at some of his more private moments. Perhaps when he is in the process of writing poetry in the park. He would then inform me that the best place to find him is in the park just north of the Dupont Circle North Metro Station.

Though suffering from the beginnings of a cold, on Saturday afternoon, 7 October, I'd visit Dupont Circle North for the expressed purpose of capturing and spending time with Neal. When I did not see him, in the park just north of Dupont Circle North Metro Station, I'd shift my focus to the Connecticut Avenue Dupont Circle Underpass Revitalization project and the Pedestrians at Dupont Circle North. As the afternoon wore on, the chill and dampness in the air begin to permeate my body. And though I should not have been out into the dampness I would continue to photograph for more than an hour.

When heading back to the Dupont Circle North Station I'd walk into the park to see if Neal was around. He was not. However, having observed a young man sitting on a park bench I'd inquire if I may photograph him. He said yes. He was visiting from out of town. After taking several photos I'd thank the young man and then turn in the direction of the Dupont Circle North Station exit.

At which time, I'd hear Neal yell "Hey ...".

We'd sit for a moment. During which time he would inform me that his mother had passed on 18 September 2006. On the brink of tears, Neal would then pull from his coat pocket a copy of the program from the 23 September funeral service. Which he was not able to attend.

He'd open the pamphlet to an inside page and point to a picture of his father. We'd talk for a few minutes about his mother, his father and his family. He asked if I would make sure to send copies of the photos that I took of him, in the park, to his family.

I said, "Yes, of course". I'd then suggest that he write their address in my note pad.

It is in the early to late afternoon, in the fall of the year, and when the tempertures dip below 60 or 50 degrees on damp days as was the case on Saturday, 7 October, that I must be especially careful. Having already been under the weather since the Wednesday before, I'd tell Neal that I had to get home ... and out of the chilled air and dampness since my cold was already worsening.

When hugging, in a departure gesture, I'd reiterate that I would make sure to get in touch with his family. Walking toward the subway, I'd realize that what had just transpired reprented a perfect example of a NEAL AVERY - NAKED TRUTH moment.

13 October 2006 Friday's Photo of the Week

Washington Nationals New Baseball Stadium

Under Construction Photographic Exhibition

Sizzling Express . 4/M, SE WDC

13 October 2006 Friday's Photo of the Week

11 October, National Coming Out Day

The first National Coming Out Day was held on October 11, 1988. This date was chosen for the annual event in commemoration of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. It also marks the anniversary of the first visit of the AIDS Memorial Quilt to Washington, D. C.

The theme for the 2006 NCOD is "Talk About It!". In celebration of the 2006 NCOD visit my Love Power photo monage of the 2006 Capital Pride Celebration.

Birthday Calendar regarding 5 October 1953

5 October 1953.

Your date of conception was on or about 12 January 1953 which was a Monday.

You were born on a Monday under the astrological sign Libra. Your Life path number is 6.

Life Path Compatibility:
You are most compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 3, 6 & 9. You should get along well with those with the Life Path numbers 2, 4, 8, 11 & 22. You are least compatible with those with the Life Path numbers 1, 5 & 7.

The Julian calendar date of your birth is 2434655.5. The golden number for 1953 is 16. The epact number for 1953 is 14. The year 1953 was not a leap year.

Your birthday falls into the Chinese year beginning 2/14/1953 and ending 2/2/1954.You were born in the Chinese year of the Snake.

Your Native American Zodiac sign is Raven; your plant is Ivy.

You were born in the Egyptian month of Choiach, the fourth month of the season of Poret (Emergence - Fertile soil).

Your date of birth on the Hebrew calendar is 26 Tishri 5714.

The date of Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 5 April 1953. The date of Orthodox Easter on your birth year was Sunday, 5 April 1953. The date of Ash Wednesday (the first day of Lent) on your birth year was Wednesday 18 February 1953.

The date of Whitsun (Pentecost Sunday) in the year of your birth was Sunday 24 May 1953. The date of Whisuntide in the year of your birth was Sunday 31 May 1953.

The date of Rosh Hashanah in the year of your birth was Thursday, 10 September 1953. The date of Passover in the year of your birth was Tuesday, 31 March 1953.

The date of Mardi Gras on your birth year was Tuesday 17 February 1953.

As of 10/10/2006 5:56:02 PM EDT You are 53 years old. You are 636 months old. You are 2,766 weeks old. You are 19,363 days old. You are 464,729 hours old. You are 27,883,796 minutes old. You are 1,673,027,762 seconds old.

Celebrities who share your birthday:
Nikki Hilton (1983)
Paul Thomas (1980)
Kate Winslet (1975)
Grant Hill (1972)
Guy Pearce (1967)
Patrick Roy (1965)
Mario Lemieux (1965)
Bernie Mac (1957)
Bob Geldof (1954)
Karen Allen (1951)
Glynis Johns (1923)
Donald Pleasence (1919)
Allen Ludden (1917)
Larry Fine (1902)
Ray Kroc (1902)
Chester A. Arthur (1829)

Top songs of 1953
Vaya Con Dios by Les Paul & Mary Ford
Song from 'Moulin Rouge' by Percy Faith
Rags to Riches by Tony Bennett
The Doggie In the Window by Patti Page
You You You by Ames Brothers
I'm Walking Behind You by Eddie Fisher
Till I Waltz Again with You by Teresa Brewer
Don't Let the Stars Get In Your Eyes by Perry Como
No Other Love by Perry Como
St. George and the Dragonet by Stan Freberg

Your age is the equivalent of a dog that is 7.57847358121331 years old. (You old hound dog, you!)

There are 360 days till your next birthdayon which your cake will have 54 candles. Those 54 candles produce 54 BTUs,or 13,608 calories of heat (that's only 13.6080 food Calories!) .You can boil 6.17 US ounces of water with that many candles.

In 1953 there were approximately 3.6 million births in the US. In 1953 the US population was approximately 150,697,361 people, 50.7 persons per square mile. In 1953 in the US there were approximately 1,667,231 marriages (11.1%) and 385,144 divorces (2.6%)In 1953 in the US there were approximately 1,452,000 deaths (9.6 per 1000)In the US a new person is born approximately every 8 seconds. In the US one person dies approximately every 12 seconds.In 1953 the population of Australia was approximately 8,902,686. In 1953 there were approximately 202,235 births in Australia.In 1953 in Australia there were approximately 70,640 marriages and 7,962 divorces. In 1953 in Australia there were approximately 80,188 deaths.Your birthstone is Tourmaline -->The Mystical properties of Tourmaline
Pink Tourmaline promotes female balance and protection. Green Toumaline promotes male balance.Some lists consider these stones to be your birthstone. (Birthstone lists come from Jewelers, Tibet, Ayurvedic Indian medicine, and other sources) Opal, JasperYour birth tree is
Rowan, the Sensitivity Full of charm, cheerful, gifted, without egoism, likes to draw attention, loves life, motion, unrest and even complications, is both dependent and independent, good taste, artistic, passionate, emotional, good company, does not forgive.

There are 76 days till Christmas 2006! There are 89 days till Orthodox Christmas! The moon's phase on the day you wereborn was waning crescent.

Storehouse Goes Out of Business

In the process of my 14th Street Windows Project on Columbus Day Monday, 9 October I'd observe that the Storehouse located at 1526 14th Street, NW, in the Logan Circle area of Washington DC is holding a going of business sale. After taking a few exterior shots I'd walk inside and inquire of the manager if I may take a few interior shots. Having introduced myself a few weeks before as a documentary photographer whose interest is to record the history of 14th Street which includes furnisher stores the staff remembered me and, therefore, were very cooperative.

While, for many years, I have photographed and recorded the exterior of stores in Washington DC and New York City this was the first time that I had approached a store manager inquring if I may engage in architectural interior photography. Which is a focus that I spoke recently of adding to my collection of ongoing themes. My first 14th Street Storehouse window images were taken on 4 January 2006 which according to an August 2004 Washington Post article was scheduled to have opened in the fall of 2004 but if my memory serves me correctly may have opened one year later, in the fall of 2005.

Storehouse Inc. began selling off $60 million worth of inventory Friday after attempts to sell the company or obtain new equity proved fruitless. The court-ordered bankruptcy liquidation was announced by Newton, Mass.-based Hudson Capital Partners LLC, a firm specializing in retail dispositions and asset recovery. Following the sale, which is expected to take several weeks, all of the Storehouse retail locations will be closed.

When taking this series of images I'd reflect on my 1 September 1995 Woodies Closing Sale photographs. As well as my Labor Day 2006 WDC Hechts and March 2005 Miami Burdine window display images which was on the eve of when each of these stores would transform into Macy's.

Fallan Fall, Flowers & African Imports Street Vendor @ 13th & F NW

Though, in the course of Street Photography, I had photographed street vendors since 1992 it was in June 2005 that I would embark an ongoing project that while capturing particular street vendors I would also conduct brief photo-interviews and in the process learn of and then shed light on their personal history.

My first expose, in June 2005, brought attention to Frank's Place on Capitol Hill and whose proprieter, Frank Lloyd, I had first photographed in November 1993.

Shortly after my first visit to the Sunday's Drum & Dance Circle in Malcolm X Park which took place in July 2006 I contemplated purchasing a drum. However, it was after my second visit to the Drum Circle on 20 August that I would observe that several street vendors exhibited drums and other such paraphernalia at their stands.

A few weeks ago when enroute to capture Skateboarders in Freedom Plaza I'd observe that the flower vendor at the corner of 13th a I inquired if he had other sizes he said that he sometimes will carry larger sizes but, at the time, he only had the one size.

It was then that I would vow that as a birthday gift to myself, I would return on 5 October and purchase a drum from the street vendor at 13th and F Street, NW, in downtown WDC.

Which is exactly what I would do. And since he still had only the one size at the price of $15 each, I'd purchase two. For starters. One is actually for Richard whose birthday is 11 October.

Before departing I'd inquire of the street vendor if I may photograph him and his stand. He said yes. His name is Fallen Fall.

Recently, in New York City, The Street Vendor Project released a study, Peddling Uphill (PDF), showing the difficulties street vendors have these days, given steep fines that are handed down for small infractions.

2006 DC Red Dress Run

Walking north, yesterday afternoon, on 18th Street from the Farragut West subway station I'd observe two men and one woman walking south, all three dressed in red dresses. Positioning my camera for several photos I'd inquire if they had just participated in the AIDS Walk Washington.

"O' no ..." the man in the center responded and would exlpain further, "We are from the DC Red Dress Run and we drink lots of beer when we run." When I asked if there is a website he said check for DC Hashing.

Hash House Harriers and Red Dress Runs have an interesting history.

Flickr @ Yahoo Travel

Having learned yesterday that images may be uploaded to Flickr and Yahoo Travel, simultaneuously, I spent much of late last night and early this morning uploading more of my 25 March 2006 Ninth Avenue Chelsea NYC images to Flickr and Yahoo Travel. During which time I'd learn of Blog Chelsea. This is an area of Manhattan that I am very familar with since from September 1980 to July 1981 Frank and I shared a studio at 319 West 21st Street before he, Steve and I leased a loft at 22 East 22nd Street in Gramercy Park.

Rod Stewart Rocks Times Square . 9 October

Calling all Rod Stewart fans! Tickets are sold out for the New York City show, but you can still see Rod rock Times Square! On Monday, October 9th, at 9:30 PM ET/6:30 PM PT, Rod Stewart will perform in an exclusive concert on the eve of the release of his brand new album. Big Screen Concerts will present this live broadcast in movie theatres nationwide. If you can't make it to your local theatre, check out the live webcast on MSN! Don't miss the show, and don't foget to pick up Rod's brand new album "Still The Same...Great Rock Classics Of Our Time" on October 10th!

Mark Lee's ATLAS Events celebrates 16th Anniversary w/ Columbus Day Weekend Holiday Event

ATLAS Events 16th Anniversary

20th AIDS Walk Washington, 7 October 2006

The 20th Annual AIDS Walk Washington will commence at 9 am tomorrow morning, 7 October, at Freedom Plaza with an inspiring pre-Walk program of speakers and music followed by a 9:30 am step-off.

The never before seen photo to the right was taken during the 2005 AIDS Walk Washington by Elvert Barnes who has captured AIDS Walk DC since 1994.

John Epperson, A.K.A Lypsinka, to appear at Lavender Vaudeville October 11

Since 1982, the name Lypsinka has been synonymous with magnificence. The prolific theatrical drag aesthete is featured in seven movies, numerous television appearances, and headlined more than a dozen original productions. John Epperson, the genius behind the conceptual art form that is Lypsinka, is poised to divulge insights about his twenty-five year career. The perpetually astute (and occasionally provocative) Epperson will present these fascinating traits on October 11, when he will face up-and-coming interviewess, Millie Shayntwrite.

“I like to describe the series as Inside the Actor’s Studio meets Def Poetry Jam,” says Millie. “I want to know what makes these luminaries tick. My questions generally revolve around their childhoods, vices, traumas, political perspectives, and what motivates them as artists; with an obligatory dose of current events.”

Millie’s razor-sharp wit lacerated Ben Sanders, aka Brini Maxwell, in last month’s titillating discussion. Drag commentator, Millie Shayntwrite, hosts a monthly evening of poetry readings, and in-depth live interviews with the most powerful and talented luminaries in the GLBT world. Come and witness prominent figures such as Lypsinka, Edmund White, Norah Vincent, and Kevin Aviance probed before a live audience.

Seizing the opportunity, Millie is introducing the only monthly GLBT poetry slam in the city. Readers from every corner of gay life have lined up to share their poetry on Lavender Vaudeville’s stage. The affect on audiences is the kind of magnetic spirit unique to iconic gay cultural experiences.

Hosted by Millie Shayntwrite, on 11 October Lypsinka will appear at Lavender Vaudeville which is a second Wednesdays event at the Nuyorican Poets Café, from 7 to 9 PM, @ $7 admission.

Available for Comment:

Aaron Kinchen - amknyc@comcast.net – 551-208-4372

John Epperson – lypsinka@aol.com

Lois Griffith (Dir. of programming at the Café) – Nuyorican@mindspring.com -718-522-5893

Gift Trap Massive Play Weekend . 6 - 8 October 2006

In benefit of Right to Play, this weekend, 6 - 8 October, marks the GiFtTrap Massive Play Weekend which and because GiftTRAP is the game that keeps on giving, registered volunteers who send in pictures and testimonials from their events and who donate to Right to Play are eligible to win a fabulous $15,000 value prize, including five nights at B.C.’s beautiful Big White ski resort along with complimentary ski passes. Now that’s giving and receiving at it’s very best!

Should a coffee shop or a trustworthy individual be in need of a GiFt Trap board game for this weekend's lauuch, since two of my photographs are featured in the game, I just so happen to have one that I will donate for the purpose of this event. However, it must be returned to me afterwards. Contact me, Elvert Barnes.

Washington Blade's BEST OF GAY DC 2006

06 October 2006 Friday's Photo of the Week

53rd Birthday, Thursday 5 October 2006

2006 Friday's Photo of the Week

Millions More Movement March PHOTOS NEVER BEFORE SEEN

2005 Millions Move Movement March

PHOTOGRAPHS NEVER BEFORE SEEN 2006

The Vulgar Bulgars, a Klezmer band @ Dupont Circle North

Since 1992 which is when I would take up photography and in the course of what I refer to as street photography Street Musicians have been an important element of my body of work. In recent months, as a former caterer, sometimes event coordinator and always promoter of the arts when I have come across groups such as Vulgar Bulgars, as was the case on Saturday afternoon at Dupont Circle North my intent is to refer them to caterers, event coordinators and venues that may be interested in booking them for events.

Since my visit to South Boston Virginia in June for the 2006 Juneteenth Celebration at Berryhill Plantation I've made it a point to keep my eyes and ears open for talent that may fit into the scheme of things at The Prizery. There is no doubt in my mind that the Vulgar Bulgars, from central Virginia, would fit quite well into the scheme of the Chastain Theater at the Prizery.

And caterers including Susan Gage, Occasions and Design Cuisine may would find them of interest as well.

My Hand/Bible Ron Brown Memorial photo

At least once a week I'll search the internet for Elvert Barnes or Elvert Xavier Barnes Photography to see where my pictures may be included at various websites or blogs. Taken on 13 April 1996 during the Ron Brown Memorial Service at the Department of Commerce in WDC the photo to the left is featured in the 1 March 2005 Science and Technology News artilce entitled Genesis: God’s word, Evolution: God’s work by Devon McPhee.

Cowgirl Creamery comes to F Street in WDC

It has been just nine years since Sue Conley and Peggy Smith launched Tomales Bay Foods in a renovated barn in Point Reyes Station, California. After successful careers as Bay Area chefs (Sue owned the popular Bette's Oceanview Diner in Berkeley; Peggy ran the kitchen at the renowned Chez Panisse), the women shifted their focus to Tomales Bay. Their new market would carry the region's finest natural foods and other products, from prepared dishes, fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, wines and cheeses. Sue and Peggy began to make cheese from the pure, natural, organic milk produced by Straus Family Dairy, and Cowgirl Creamery was born. All Cowgirl Creamery cheeses are still made at the barn in Point Reyes Station.

A second Cowgirl Creamery would open in 2003 at Ferry Plaza in San Francisco. In June 2006, Cowgirl Creamery would 'go east' when a Cowgirl Creamery would open at 919 F Street in the Chinatown/Penn Quarter area of Washington DC.

The above photo was takeen on Tuesday evening, 26 September 2006, while in the process of my ongoing Downtown F Street Project which I have been documenting for several years.

29 September 2006 Friday's Photo of the Week

Verizon Center . Chinatown . 26 September 2006

2007 Winter Party @ South Beach

28 February 28 thru 5 March 2007 represents the 2007 Winter Party™ Festival, in South Beach. A world-class beach dance party and cultural festival benefiting the Miami-Dade gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. Photo from 2005 Winter Party.

Southern Heritage Harvest Festival . Sobo VA . Saturday, 30 September 2006

JPG Magazine's rebirth

Exactly two years ago today, JPG Magazine began with a simple mission. Today, the humble project that began with a Gmail account and a dream is growing up. Welcome to the new JPG Magazine. In many ways, this is the project we always wanted. The front cover, to the right, is from the inaugural issue, Origins. There are four days left for submissions to the 7th Issue which will soon be on the newsstands.

COLORLINES - September/October Issue

Autumn has arrived, and with it the September/October issue of ColorLines hits newsstands around the country.After reflecting last month on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, we shift gears this month to look at some new cultural and political trends affecting communities of color. From a discussion of Muslim communities in the aftermath of 9/11 to welfare nannies and Jonestown, ColorLines brings you the best coverage on the issues that matter.

Springsteen's BORN TO RUN: Unseen Photo becomes a Classic Poster

One of the reasons that I photograph so proflically is to curate future Never Before Seen Photographic Exhibitions and Documentary Projects many years later. So whenever I hear of never before seen projects such as Springsteen's Born To Run Unseen Photos or Patti Smith: American Artist I get a rise.

Eric Meola, the photographer who shot the classic black & white cover of Bruce Springsteen's Born to Run, has taken one of the captivating photographs from his Born to Run: The Unseen Photos book and created a poster suitable for framing and available to all. From the same 1975 photo session that brought us the album cover, this alternate shot of Bruce and Clarence standing back-to-back feels familiar on one hand, yet its an entirely new glimpse of that iconic pose.

Offered exclusively by Backstreets Magazine, this striking image has been beautifully reproduced as a 20" x 30" poster on 100 lb. glossy stock. And best of all, the proceeds from all poster sales will go directly to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. So help a great cause and get a great poster, unseen no more. Order yours today.

John Kiser from Rizik's says "Flip-flops belong at the beach ..."

I have photographed the window displays of Rizik's since January 1992 which was shortly after I received a Minolta as a Christmas gift in December 1991. And have admired Rizik's window displays long before. I would first observe and photograph John Kiser on 20 December 1993 when he and an assistant were in the process of dressing Rizik's window. Though I did not ask his name at the time when I'd happen upon him some months or years later dressing the windows at Rizik's having already noticed me, in the past, he'd introduce himself, saying that he also had a few clients in Baltimore.

On Tuesday afternoon, 26 September, in connection with my In the Fall of the Year 2006 Project I'd take to the streets and as I have done each fall since 1992 I'd record the window display situated at Rizik's south side. And just as I'd turn to head north on Connecticut Avenue to capture the window displays at The Gap I'd observe John Kiser standing at the front entrance of Rizik's at the store's northwest side.

When I inquired if I may take a few photos of him for posting to my blog, remembering me from over the years, he said yes. During which time I'd conduct a brief interview.

John Kiser was born in Kentucky and has worked in the window display industry for more than 28 years. At first in Huntington Kentucky before relocating to the Washington DC area which for more than 25 years he has dressed the windows at Rizik's.

As Rizik's Advertising and Visual Director Mr. Kiser no longer does work in Baltimore. At least, not on a regular basis but, may in the case of a special event.

"Flip-flops belong at the beach or a backyard barbecue," was John Kiser's reaction four members of the Northwestern University's championship women's lacrosse team showed up for a White House meeting with President Bush wearing flip-flops, in July 2005.

MPDC CCTV Neighborhood Cameras

When taking architectural and industrial photographs north of the 14th and U Street area of NW WDC on yesterday evening I'd observe an MPDC CCTV at the corner of 14th and W Streets. And as result will now embark on an ongoing documentary project that will focus on the MPDC CCTV Neighborhood Cameras Campaign.

Key Elementary's Penny War 2006 nets Whitman Walker Clinic $2000 donation

The initial idea to raise a few hundred dollars for a good cause would soon come to be known as the Penny War of 2006.

On 25 May 2006, headed by Elizabeth Fosburgh and Shane Ache Beck the Student Government Association (SGA) at Key Elementary School, located in NW WDC, donated $2000 to the Elizabeth Taylor Medical Center at the Whitman Walker Clinic in Northwest Washington DC which represented more than 20,000 pennies collected by the school's students.

Kevin Zeese, Independent Candidate for MD's US Senate @ 2006 Black Luv Festival

In his remarks at the 2006 Black Luv Festival when speaking about the truth in American politics, Green-Libertarian-Populist US Senate candidate for Maryland, Kevin Zeese, said that though the democratic party takes the Afro-American vote for granted without the Black vote democrats, simply, could not win.

He said further that though history reveals that far more whites are involved with drugs in the state of Maryland, 90% of those in the system for drug offenses are black compared to 7% that are white.

Which, as a 52 year old gay black man who for more than 40 years has practiced integration ... I know a great deal about. And have spoken, extensively, on in my writings.

On 24 September, Zeese was endorsed by the Baltimore Times as the best candidate for Afro-Americans.

Tomorrow night, 26 September 2006, the Unity Convention of the Zeese For Senate Campaign will feature representatives of the three parties that nominated him, Green, Populists, Libertarians as well as Democrats, Republicans and Independents who support him. There will be speakers who work for the issues Zeese is advocating -- Peace, Justice, Democracy and Prosperity. The event is being held at the University of Baltimore, 1420 Maryland Ave. at 7 PM.

Photog Frank Stefanko's Patti Smith: American Artist

Patti Smith was a favorite subject for photographer Frank Stefanko back in their college years. "Patti had jet-black hair and pale blue eyes that could see right through you. When I visited New York, I started photographing Patti; I was captivated by her look...tall, thin, with porcelain skin, sharp features, and those piercing eyes. With me, in terms of portraits, it's always the eyes first, and then the rest of the face comes into view." In his book Patti Smith: American Artist Frank Stefanko introduces a Patti Smith the world has never before seen.

According to the 24 September 2006 Washington Post Sunday Source and in conjunction with the release of Stefanko's book an opening reception from 6 - 9 pm will be heldon Friday evening, 29 September 2006, at the Govinda Gallery in Georgetown for the Frank Stefanko's Patti Smith: American Artist exhibition which will run through 28 October 2006.