CALOR is this Sunday night with DJ Paulo!

DC Photographer Frank Muzzy's "Bear" Images Featured On Cover & Inside of Winter 07/08 Issue of White Crane Journal

Though bears had been contemplated for the Winter 2005 issue of the White Crane Journal DC gay photoartist Frank Muzzy was smitten, a few months ago, when the editors of White Crane requested his permission for use of his Red Bear self-portrait for the cover of then upcoming Winter 2007 / 2008 issue of White Crane Journal.

A gay journal magazine dedicated to exploring Gay wisdom, White Crane Issue #75, THE BEARABLE RIGHTNESS OF BEING features two images from Muzzy's Bear To Bare Series.

While Muzzy's self portrait, Red Bear, graces the cover his "Mid-Morning" is featured in the Taking Issue section.

Created by Robert Barzan in the Summer of 1989 as the White Crane Newsletter, White Crane Journal is a quarterly forum for exploring Gay Culture and Wisdom.

An independent thought-provoking journal of gay thought published four times a year, White Crane Journal relies on the support and contributions of subscribers to keep going.

Here is where you can find locations in your local area that carry White Crane. Since I live in WDC, I'll be stopping in at Lambda Rising at 1625 Connecticut Avenue, NW, to pick up a copy for inclusion in my Magazine Collection.

Contact Frank Muzzy at muzzydc@verizon.net.

My newly launched MASS TRANSIT EXPLORATION blog

Though still UNDER CONSTRUCTION, this past week, I launched my MASS TRANSIT EXPLORATION blog.

My First 2008 FLANEURISM Video of the Week

Since January 1992 which was shortly after I received a Minolta as a Christmas gift photo walks have represented a most important aspect of my photography.

When in Fort Lauderdale over Memorial Day Week that both my cameras where in for repair I purchased a Canon Power Shot. Since then videography has been an important element of my photo walks and mass transit series.

In connection with my "New Memories / New Year 2008 Campaign" my "FLANEURISM: Walk Away / Video Walk - WDC - 07 January 2008" Projections Project, highlighting flaneurism and mass transit exploration, represents my first 2008 FLANEURISM Video of the Week.

Two other similar video projections projects that I shot during this past week are:

• WMATA - L'Enfant Plaza Station . SW WDC . 04 January 2008
• FLANEURISM: Ricochet Video Walk / Corcoran / WDC . 08 January 2008

Friday's Photo of the Week . 11 January 2008

Men At Work / Waterfront Mall (Demolition)

Southwest Community / DC 2008

4th & M Streets, SW . WDC

Tuesday, 08 January 2008

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

2 WILD CHERRY Events THIS WEEKEND in WDC

Gearing up for the 2008 Cherry Weekend two events will be held THIS WEEKEND in WDC.

On Saturday night, 12 January 2008, in connection with the Wild Cherry Series, the Cherry Fund / Cherry Events will present DJ Revive, whose name is actually Chris Guénard, from New Orleans at the Be Bar.

Tickets are $5 at the door benefitting The Cherry Fund. VIP Tickets are available at $10 which includes a promo CD and t-shirt. Cherry Weekend (April 17-20, 2008) passes & tickets will be available for purchase.

Be Bar is located at 1318 9 th Street, NW, WDC.

On Sunday, 13 January, Delirium Sundays at Pasha will host a Special Cherry Preview Dance Party, benefitting Cherry Weekend featuring DJ Alexander from LA.

Delirium Sundays at Pasha takes places on the second floor of the former Mr. P's, at 2147 P Street in NW WDC, this Sunday's Special Cherry Preview Dance Party open its doors at 8 pm. The music goes until 2 am. General admisssion is $10.

Winter Party Festival Early Bird Special Ends Monday!

To have the most fun possible at Winter Party Festival and save a little money at the same time ... purchase one of the multi-event passes by Monday, January 14! Passes always save you anywhere from $45 to more than $400, but you can enjoy additional savings during the early bird special.

Two passes, the Florida Resident Pass and the New Generation 21-25 Pass, are only available until January 14. But only purchase these passes if you qualify, as you'll be required to show a valid government-issued ID at all venues.

A new pass for those of you who like to get the party started and not stop, The Climax 24-Hour Pass includes three events that will take you from noon on Sunday to noon on Monday and maybe even later. This new pass is $150 and includes the 15th Annual Winter Party Beach Party, Orbit and BPM: Red Eye. This pass is available only until Monday, January 28.

Winter Party Festival isn't just a mind-blowing celebration, it's also an essential fundraiser for the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and organizations that serve the Miami-Dade LGBT community. It takes over 400 volunteers to produce the more than 20 events on the Festival's line-up. These terrific people -- serving as greeters and bartenders, staffing the Welcome Center, working behind the scenes at receptions and fashion events, monitoring shuttle buses and setting up and striking more than 20 events -- help ensure that more money is available for the benefit of all of us.

If you'd like to contribute some of your time to Winter Party Festival, sign up at VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION.

HOST HOTEL RATES INCREASE ON JANUARY 29!

The Doubletree Surfcomber is THE hotel of choice during Winter Party Festival. The Festival Welcome Center is located in the hotel, only steps away from the magnificent pool, site of the ever-popular Under One Sun Pool Party. Hotel guests receive two complimentary tickets per room to this spectacular event.

Room rates are $299/king and $319/double through January 29, after which the rates increase by $20. To reserve your room, please call 305.532.7715, ask for reservations, and mention Winter Party Festival 2008 to receive the special rate or visit the Doubletree Surfcomber website.

Here is the Entertainment List and Schedule. And Travel Information and official photos from last year.

Click the above photo by Elvert Barnes to view images from his 2007 Winter Party Festival photo collection at flickr.

3rd Annual Just Circuit Awards Ballot Deadline - 14 January 2008

Last year, over 2000 JustCircuit members took the time to vote in the 2006 JustCircuit Awards. Their interest and participation in honoring the best in the Circuit was simply...amazing!

Here is the link which will enable you to access your ballot for the 3rd Annual JustCircuit Awards. Please click this link and follow the instructions provided to vote your ballot. Should you have any questions regarding your ballot, user-name or eligibility, please email JCAwards@JustCircuit.com.

Deadline for ballot submission is at 11:59 PM on 14 January 2008 and no ballots will be accepted after that time.

Annie Leibovitz: A Photographer's Life, 1990–2005 at the Corcoran closes 13 January

Tony Moran's "The Event 2008" NOW AVAILABLE at Masterbeat

Paladino Casting Call for BMXers & 'freelance' X-treme Sports Videographers in the WDC area

I received an email yesterday in my YouTube account from Emily Derr of Paladino Casting pertaining to a casting project for the Reebok website.

Paladino Casting is in search of people with interesting and unusual athletic skills, in particular, BMXers and 'freelance' extreme sports videographers in NYC, WDC and Barcelona who would be interested in having their images and/or videography featured on the Reebok website.

Based in NYC, Paladino Casting is currently making plans to visit WDC in the next few weeks for the purpose of scouting 'potential' subjects. While Paladino Casting hopes to spend a day or more videotaping and photographing BMXers in action at various locations in the metropolitan area - interested BMXers and 'freelance' x-treme sports videographers may also upload their projects to YouTube.

While union members or those under contract are welcomed to inquire and will may will be accepted, this particular project may be better suited for those who are non-union or are not under any specific contract.

In any case, it is important to obatain a signed model release from any subject and/or videographer involved in the project.

Contemplating visiting WDC next weekend or, perhaps, the weekend after ... Kristen Paladino has asked for my assistance in connecting her with BMXers and those who videotape them in the WDC area. However, since the cold weather is setting in and the BMXers (mostly from the suburbs) that I am familiar with frequent Penn Quarter, Navy Memorial, Freedom Plaza and Shaw Skate Park & Recreation Center in WDC it was my suggestion that she wait until the weather is warmer.

From conversations that I have had with the various BMXers, over the years, there are several BMX locations out in the suburbs that I have never visited.

So, if you are a BMXer or a 'freelance' x-treme sports videographer in the WDC area and wish to inquire further regarding this Paladino Casting project please telephone 212-741-2224. Or email Kristen Paladino at kristen@paladinocasting.com or Emily Derr at emily@paladinocasting.com.

In addition to that which you'll find at the Paladino Casting website here is a link to information pertaining to Kristen Paladino's casting background.

Click the above image of BMXer Eric, from Fairfax VA, to view my BMX - Penn Quarter photoset.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 04 January 2008

Creating New Memories / 2008

41st Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Roots of Virginia Culture

National Mall . WDC . 28 June 2007

2008 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Photographer Gerald Mocarsky's "Men Who Dance With Men" featured in January 2008 IN THE LIFE "Wide Stance" Episode

In the "IN THE LIFE" January Program Alert I learn of photographer Gerald Mocarsky whose "Men Who Dance With Men" historiographic project captures provocative images of men dancing together. From socials for senior citizens to ballet and hip-hop dancing, he uses his art to celebrate the honesty and beauty of coming to terms with oneself.

When viewing the JANUARY 2008 - WIDE STANCE video and then Mocarsky's website I was glad to observe another photographer who has similar interest and foci as I.

While my ongoing "And Without Apologies", "Out In The Life", and "Dancing The Night Away" series and Winter Party Festival 2007 Beach Party and 2005 Manhunt Pool Party collections attempt to document and celebrate 'gay life' my Movement Choreophotography Project captures folks of any and all sexual orientations, religious affiliations and political persuasion including those at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, in Dupont Circle, at Malcolm X. Park and the Black Family Renion or the Downtown Holiday Market 'dancing in the street'.

When observing Mocarsky in action on the WIDE STANCE video and viewing his work at his website ... I said to myself "George, I know exactly what it is that you are doing because I, too, have the same interests and similar foci.

IN THE LIFE's January episode, Wide Stance, features a diverse collection of stories, from a look at a film that examines biblical language about homosexuality, to a photo essay of men dancing together. We'll hear what it's like to be a gay rapper, take an unflinching and historical look at public sex and entrapment, through the lens of the Senator Larry Craig scandal. Throughout the show, the ever-controversial Margaret Cho, and lesbian comic Kate Clinton, go head-to-head in conversation.

To see when IN THE LIFE airs in your area, visit the Show Schedule finder.

Russell Richards 2008 Wall Calendar 'Limited Edition' available for only two more weeks

The limited edition of "The Art of Russell U. Richards" 2008 Wall Calendar featuring 12 months of inspiring artwork suitable for all ages, which he presented as gifts during this holiday season, will be available for only two more weeks from Russell U. Richards store at Cafe Press.

Click the image to order the limited edition 2008 calendar. Other products featuring "The Art of Russell U. Richards", including T-shirts and posters can be found at his Cafe Press Shop.

To learn more about Russell U. Richards visit his webiste at "The Art of Russell U. Richards.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 28 December 2007

Picture Man . Street Artists Series

in front of 14 U Cafe . 1939 14th Street, NW, WDC

Saturday afternoon, 22 December 2007

2007 Fridays' Photos of the Week

Showtime's "Holy Shit! Promo

By itself, such a promo would be unremarkable, given the R-rated content of so many Showtime skeins and movies. But the [HOLY SHIT] ad -- spearheaded by Showtime execs Frank Pintauro and Angie Speranza -- doesn't stop there.

The montage is set to the Centralia song "Holy Shit," which includes lyrics such as "I've been such an asshole/I've been such a prick" and "Holy, holy shit/We've got the world by the tit."

Read full VARIETY article, dated 17 August 2007, by Josef Adalian.

Click image to view YouTube video.

National Marathon Registration Reminder - Rates Increase After 31 December

A "Timely" Reminder

National Marathon and Half Marathon registration rates increase at the 1st of the new year. Be sure to take advantage of the last days of 2007 for the current race rate of $85 for the marathon and $70 for the half.

[Effective] January 1, prices increase by $10 in each category.
Get ready to run your personal best, sign up to run for your cause, or get a head start on your New Year's Resolution.

Here in DC, Everybody's Running for Something.

REGISTRATION - CLICK HERE.

The above photo by Elvert Barnes was taken at 8:01 am on the 7th Street Bridge in SW between E and H Streets, SW, WDC on 24 March 2007 during the 2nd Annual National Marathon.

Corcoran End of Year 'Annual Fund' Request

A Message / Request from Paul Greenhalgh, Director and President, of the Corcoran Gallery Art / College of Art + Design

As I sit here, adjacent to the crowds queuing to get into our gallery, I realize that the lively bustle of the crowd in the atrium is giving all of my colleagues a new sense of optimism and pride in the Corcoran.

The galleries are looking very sharply designed; the building looks cleaner and grander by the day; the ranks of our membership are swelling to a new size; we are approaching our education and outreach activity with new-found confidence and vigor. We are arriving in a good place.

Your commitment to the Annual Fund is vital. This fund is the foundation of all we do. It enables us to install world class exhibitions, expand the college by offering new degree programs and scholarships, repair and restore our National Historic Landmark Building, and support our community outreach programs.

We all know that the coming period is absolutely key for the future. We are only beginning the journey that will take the Corcoran to places it has not been for a hundred years. We will make the coming year into one of the best in our recent history.

Make your 100% tax-deductible gift to the Corcoran Annual Fund by December 31.

Thank you and Best Wishes for a Happy New Year.

Paul Greenhalgh
Director and President

Taken at the Corcoran on 2 June 2006 of John Fulton who was visiting WDC from South Boston VA, click the above image to view my ongoing Corcoran photoset and 17th Street, NW, collection.

Happy Kwanzaa 2007

Click image to view my Kwanzaa 2007 greeting card & video

Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Click image to view my 2007 Christmas Greeting Card & Video

2007 Deadly Year for Police

According to data and analysis provided by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 2007 is turning out to be one of the deadliest years in decades for police.

Recently, ABC's World News with Charles Gibson ran a two-part series that took an in-depth look at the growing dangers faced by police and what's being done about them.

Part 1 of the series which was entitled Officer Down: 2007 Deadly Year for Police and here is part 2, Increasing Assault Weapons in Criminal Hands.

Click the Christmas Eve, 24 December 2007 image by Elvert Barnes to view USPP 2007 and Cop Duty 2007 photo sets.

View Horseback USPP "Merry Christmas" Wish video here.

WOW Party Tonight with Larry Tee at Galapagos / Brooklyn

Every Saturday at Galapagos Larry Tee, Kevin Graves, Earl Dax, and Tobell von Cartier bring you the funnest new party in NYC!!!

This week special appearance by Bad Brilliance and performance from Tobell.

$5 or free if you RSVP to myspace.com/nylarrytee.

DON'T MISS THIS PARTY!!

EVERYBODY GETS LAID AT THIS PARTY!!!

Washingtoniana WMATA Oversized 2008 Wall Calendar

While my Washingtoniana WMATA Oversized 2008 Wall Calendar features images taken one year before, in 2007, of the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority the Elvert Barnes 2008 Wall Calendar includes 2007 images of varying themes taken in WDC, NYC and South Florida.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 21 December 2007

National Christmas Pageant of Peace 2007

The White Holidays at the National Park

President's Park / Ellipse . NW . WDC

Thursday Night, 20 December 2007

2007 Fridays' Photos of the Week

24th Annual Market Place Festival at Reeves Center THIS WEEKEND

The 24th Annual Market Place Festival & Health Fair (formerly the African American Holiday Expo) will take place this weekend on Saturday and Sunday, 22 - 23 December 2007, at the Reeves Center from 10 am until 6 pm each day.

AAHA's MarketPlace Festival and Health Fair, serves as an example of Umoja, the Kwanzaa principle of cooperative economics, where the slogan, "For the Most Positive Holidays Ever - Spend Your Money Where it Counts" has been demonstrated annually.

The Reeves Center is located at 14th and U Streets, in NW WDC.

My first of several 2008 calendars available at Cafe Press

The first of several that I will create, this particular 2008 calendar features images taken in WDC, NYC and South Florida ... with the exception of that depicted for the month of December which was taken in December 2006, each month is represented by an image taken during the corresponding month, one year before, in 2007.

My current two stores at Cafe Press are Elvert Xavier Barnes Creations and Elvert Barnes Washingtoniana.

Hopefully, by the first of the year, they will be pretty much all set up.

Harold Flagg's WWII Memoir "GI Odyssey"

Author Harold Flagg's of Fort Lauderdale FL, a traveller and sometimes tourism consultant, recently has had his second book published through Xlibris, a self publishing divison of Randon House Inc.

A military auto-biography, GI Odyssey: World War II Memoir/Novella is a highly enjoyable tour de force about a teenager’s coming-of-age during World War II.

Harry “Harold Flagg” Bandera writes his story in third person and uses mental time travel to depict life on an Ohio farm, sightseeing in Paris, skiing in Switzerland, meeting English cousins by the dozens, earning a university degree, and surviving $90,000 worth of cancer treatments—all on Uncle Sam’s tab.

Come, crawl between the sheets, and read how it all went down.

Here are exceprts from the book.

Though Flagg has all but recovered from his recent bout with cancer, last spring, in observance of the Silver Anniversary of Conch Republic Independence Day Celebration, he joined many for a National Endowment of the Arts bus ride from Fort Lauderdale to Key West for a lunch, lecture and tour of the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum.

Flagg's writing style is similar that of Hemingway.

When communicating with Flagg, by email, seldom does he not speak of and reminisce about Paris. A city and country that he 'longs for' ... and soon hopes to revisit.

Currently available through Xlibris, within a few weeks Harold Flagg's GI Odyssey: World War II Memoir/Novella may also be purchased from Amazon.com, Barnes&Noble and Borders.com.

His first book "Affordable LuxuriesCaviar Living on a Tuna Diet" is available at Amazon.com, World Retail Store, and MSN Shopping.

Citylife Barbers on 9th Avenue in Chelsea

I first came across Citylife Barbers on 9th Avenue in Chelsea in March 2006 when during a photo walk that I focused on NYC barber shops as part of my ongoing barber shops series.

Though, at the time, I did not need a hair cut I stepped inside to introduce myself and informed the staff that as a visitor from WDC barber shops was amongst my ongoing themes.

The staff was so very pleasant that I vowed that when I returned to NYC in the future that I would make a point to stop in Citylife Barbers for barber service.

Which is exactly what I did, three months later, when I rode up to NYC with Mark and Ken for the June 2006 Heritage Pride Parade. But, after a late night / early morning of 'partying' at the West Side Club when I did stop in at Citylife Barbers late Saturday evening, 24 June 2006, they were just then closing up shop.

However, when Richard and I visited NYC in September 2007, I made a point to stop in at Citylife Barbers on a Saturday afternoon.

And as one reviewer says, I was "... greeted by the friendliest staff in NYC". Which was my first and second impressions when stopping in the two previous times before.

Though each barber was busy, at the time, I was the next person to be serviced. While waiting, reading the news paper, viewing images on my digital camera and watching the plasma TV one of the barbers offered me a bottle of water. Which I thought was a 'very nice touch'. Thanking him, I said 'Yes'.

After about a 5 or 10 minute wait I was in the barber's chair. And Jeovani would provide excellent service. While he cut my hair, I explained further the nature of my photography and told them that I would be attending a wedding on Long Island the following day.

Another 'added treat' occurred just before I was released from the chair when Jeovani wrapped my face and head with a hot eucalyptus towel.

If I remember correctly, the cost was $20 and I gave him $30.

I highly reccommed Citylife Barbers which, located at 201 9th Avenue between 22nd and 23rd Street in Chelsea NYC, the barbers provide TOP SERVICE.

Hours: Monday thru Thursday, 9 am - 8 pm. Friday and Saturday, 8 am - 8 pm. No appointments necessary.

Telephone 212-366-5369.

Rally to Protest Market 5 Gallery's Illegal Eviction and Breakin by DC Government

Join Market 5 Gallery and its supporters Saturday, 15 December at 1 pm to protest the eviction of Market 5 Gallery. Washington, DC's Office of Property Management (OPM) and its contractors have bullied and harassed Market 5 Gallery ever since it was given oversight of Eastern Market's North Hall.

On Tuesday morning, OPM broke in the gallery and changed the locks under the guise of a window inspection. Later that day an OPM official said it was a mistake and that they would send someone to let gallery staff in on Wednesday. Somehow, the window inspection and lock change caused the gallery computers to crash. Computer Geeks will give a full report of the problem when the computers are fixed. We need your voice to put an end to this kind of harassment and illegal activity by the government. We need you to:

• View the video of the recent lockout, rate it and leave comments to boost visibility of the gallery's predicament
• Join us for a rally and petition signing at Market 5 on Saturday, 15 December at 1 pm. Rain, snow or shine!
• Sign the online eviction protest petition.
• Contact the mayor and city council to express your outrage. Telephone Mayor Fenty at 202-727-2980 or fax at 202-727-0505. Email at Mayor@dc.gov.
• Help us spread the word even if you can't make it to the rally. Post it on your web site or blog, e-mail and call friends.

Holday Gift Suggestion #2: FDNY Firefighters 2008 Calendar of Heroes

My first holiday gift suggestion was the official 2007 National Cherry Blossom T-Shirt. Four which I received in the mail yesterday. My second is the FDNY Firefighters 2008 Calendar of Heroes which, along with many other items, is available online at the FDNY Fire Zone - the OFFICIAL store run by the FDNY Foundation, a non-profit foundation that supports the Fire Department of New York to serve the public and save lives through fire safety education and other joint projects.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 14 December 2007

Come Experience Equinox: A Fredericksburg Rock Band

Writings on the Wall . 14th & Church Street, NW, WDC

Monday morning, 10 December 2007

2007 Friday Photos of the Week

Manny - Victor - Junior to spin at NYC New Year's "Circuit Events'

Thanks to Mark Nelson Events here is the low down pertaining to New Year's Day "circuit events" in NYC.

Moments after the New Year's Eve Ball descends from the flagpole atop One Times Square, the Saint At Large will ring in the New Year with an After the Ball - New Years Party at the Nokia Theater at 1515 Broadway and 44th Street in Times Square from 12:30 am until 8 am, featuring DJ Manny Lehman.

The music of Victor Calderone will get you through the day at the 9 am until 9 pm New Years Day Party at Pacha New York at 618 West 46th Street. DJ Boris will preceed Calderone from 9 pm until 9am.

And the New Year's Event w/ Junior Vasquez will get you through the night at Sol NYC at 609 West 29th Street, from 9 pm until 4 am.

Winter Music Conference / Miami Beach . 25 - 29 March 2008

Issue 2 of Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams' online "Comfort mag.net" is NOW AVAILABLE

In celebration of the holiday season, issue 2 of Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams' online magazine "Comfort mag.net" focuses on Entertainment Ideas, New Year & New Looks, and Chef Sean's Holiday Recipes.

Issue #1, in celebration of Valentines Day 2007, featured an interview of Eve Ensler and an article on second homes.

Click photo to view my ongoing Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams - Logan Circle - 14th Street NW WDC store and Windows / Logan Circle - 14th Street photo sets.

'Chocolate City' Has Two New Faces IN Town

Local artist and chocolate connoisseur Eric Nelson of Artfully Chocolate in Del Ray has teamed up with chocolatier Robert Kingsbury of Kingsbury Chocolates in Alexandria VA to open the much 'talked about' chocolate cafe Artfully Chocolate featuring Kingsbury Confections (ACKC) Cocoa Gallery on 14th Street in the Logan Circle area of NW WDC.

When Eric Nelson opened his Artfully Chocolate store in the Del Ray neighborhood in July/August 2006, creating a space where he and his domestic partner, orchid enthusiast Edward Hart, tie together a passion for art, chocolate and orchids ... Kingsbury Chocolates which had been in business since December 2002 was one of his then two local suppliers.

Both companies have grown leaps and bounds since.

As America celebrates a recent chocolate cafe trend, the newly opened ACKC Cocoa Gallery at the Matrix Condo Complex on 14th Street in NW WDC will afford Nelson and Kingsbury the opportunity to expand in the respective directions that they each which to explore.

The artwork displayed at ACKC, including the painted bistro tables as well as the cocoa cups and t-shirts - all of which are for sale - are the work of Eric Nelson.

In addiction to confections, packaged items, wedding and corporate gifts, the ACKC Cocoa Gallery & Cafe will feature the orchids of Eric's domestic partner, Eric Hart.

As the first chocolate cafe to open in WDC, Eric Nelson and Robert Kingsbury represent two new progressive faces in 'chocolate city'.

Artfully Chocolate featuring Kingsbury Confections Cocoa Gallery & Cafe (ACKC) is located in the Matrix Condos Complex at 1529C 14th Street in NW WDC.

Hours are as follows:

Monday & Tuesday - 7:30 am until 8 pm
Wednesday - 7:30 am until 9 pm
Thursday - 7:30 am until 10 pm
Friday & Saturday - 7:30 am until 11 pm
Sunday - 9 am until 7 pm

For more info or confirmation of hours telephone 202.387.COCO.

Click the above photo to view my ACKC Cocoa Gallery and ongoing Logan Circle and 14th Street Historic District photo sets.

Steve Penley's "Reinventing The American Icon" at Fine Art & Artists Gallery in Georgetown

Since visiting Georgetown on Friday evening for the Georgetown BIDness Holiday Party that in the process of my ongoing Georgetown Windows and Windows of the World projects that I'd capture the windows of the Fine Arts & Artists Gallery at 2920 M Street, NW, Steve Penley's current exhibition "Reinventing the American Icon" has been on my mind.

The new collection of WDC inspired works by Atlanta based artist Steve Penley opened with a Saturday, 17 November 2007 reception and will be on display through Saturday, 22 December.

Five percent of all art sales made at the gallery from 17 November through the end of the year will be donated to the Duke Ellington School for the Arts. Here is the PDF document.

Located in Georgetown at 2920 M Street, NW, WDC, hours for the Fine Art & Artists Gallery are Tuesday through Saturdays from 11 am until 5 pm. For appointment and inquiries call 202-965-0780 or email info@faagallery.com.

Click the above photo to view my Fine Art & Artists Gallery photo set which features images from the Steve Penley "Reinventing the American Icon" exhibition.

Since my visit to Georgetown on Friday evening, Steve Penley's exhibit at Fine Art & Artists Gallery has been on my mind. Here is an excellent blog posting at Mother Pie entitled Rising from The South: Artist Steve Penley... that explains why.

And, so has the racism that I experienced in Georgetown on Friday evening ... been on my mind, as well. Which is why it took me a day or so more ... to write this blog posting.

I Gorman & One in Ten Holiday Party tomorrow evening

Join One In Ten and I Gorman Jewelers for an Holiday Party tomorrrow evening, Tuesday 11 December 2007 from 6:30 until 8:30 pm, at the I Gorman's new store - a modern and elegant design that uses the best of ”green” technology and gem-inspired materials.

Enjoy holiday cocktails, gourment food, and perhaps find that perfect gift for loved ones, friends and family.

Proceeds from the party support One in Ten's programming and operations for 2008.

I Gorman is located at 1133 20th Street, NW, between L and M Streets in WDC.

To RSVP, please email mmurray@oneinten.org

Holiday Gift Suggestion: Official 2007 National Cherry Blossom Festival T-Shirt on 'Holiday Sale'

The official 2007 National Cherry Blossom T-Shirt which usually goes for $15, is currently on sale online at $7, in celebration of the holiday season. Another gift idea may also be the official 2007 National Cherry Blossom Festival poster at $10.

While I do not have them all in frames, I have a collection of the National Cherry Blossom Festival posters that date back to the 80's. And, in recent years, have made a point to purchase a t-shirt or two during the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Here are the official store and store index links. As well as the National Cherry Blossom Festival website.

Click the image to purchase the 2007 National Cherry Blossom Festival t-shirt at the $7 holiday sale price.

Tickets Are Selling Fast for Jenifer Lewis & Keith Boykin Saturday Night Special Screening of "Dirty Laundry"

The 7:45 showtime of "Dirty Laundry" that Keith Boykin is hosting tonight, Friday, 07 December is already SOLD OUT!

Since many could not make it tonight, Boykin is happy to announce that he and cast member Jenifer Lewis will be hosting a special Saturday screening of the movie at 7:45 pm at the Clearview's Chelsea Theater at 260 West 23rd Street.

This time you have to move quickly to get your tickets because they will probably sell out early. But if you can't get tickets for that show either, never fear. Tickets are still available for the other showtimes.

A New York Times review of the movie today says the "cast spins ... comic gold."

3rd Annual Downtown Holiday Market opens TODAY at 12 noon

Beginning at 12 noon today, the Downtown DC BID and Diverse Markets Management will kick-off is 3rd annual Downtown Holiday Market.

For 17 exciting days from Noon to 8:00 pm, at Penn Quarter, the sidewalk on F Street between 7th and 8th in front of the Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture will be transformed into a marketplace of local artisans selling a diverse array of goods including: art, crafts, jewelry, textiles, photography, pottery, clothing, prepared food and other high quality gift items. Enjoy live entertainment and refreshing food and beverages while you shop.

Each year, the event gets better and better.

All-weather large-screen monitors running continuous, looped programming with sound are a new and exciting addition to this year’s Market. Additionally, several food and beverage vendors will offer a variety of interesting savory, sweet and seasonal treats.

Taken during the 2006 Downtown Holiday Market the above image is in included in my December 2006 Photographs Never Before Seen (December 2007) project and Downtown Holiday Market 2006 collection. And here are images from the 2005 event.

Opening at 12 noon TODAY which is Friday, 07 December 2007, the event will take place every day, from 12 noon until 8 pm, thru Sunday 23 December.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 07 December 2007

Man Reading the News Paper . L'Enfant Plaza WMATA Station

SW WDC . Thursday evening, 06 December 2007

2007 Friday's Photo of the Week

Artist Robin Carol Blum 'Makes A Bold Statement'

By trade a newspaper artist with a master’s degree in illustration, Robin Carol Blum’s vibrant collection utilizes photos converted onto acrylic film, while everyday objects such as leaves, mesh, wire & fabric are intertwined.

The introduction of found street objects such as license plates & red light switch plates generate a bold urban composition. The smaller pieces are collages created with original cover letters & stamps from across history & the world.

All of the artist’s one-of-a-kind art will liven up your home & are perfect for small city walls. Your own photographs can be added to make the art more personal.

On 01 November 2007, the Zack's Taverna Art Gallery introduced the unique artwork of Capitol Hill resident Robin Carol Blum with a 5:30 - 8 pm opening reception. Located at 305 Pennsylvania Avenue in SE WDC, a second special viewing and reception will be held on 20 December 2007, from 7 until 10 pm.

Formerly the Taverna The Greek Islands, Zack's Taverna, serves Greek and mediterranean food and is a popular restaurant/bar for the Capitol Hill crowd.

Should you visit Zack's Taverna for lunch or dinner before the 20th December event, be sure to take the time to view Robin Carol Blum's 'Bold Statement' exhibition. Zack's Taverna is opened from 11 am until 11 pm, daily. Telephone at 202-547-8360.

Contact Robin Carol Blum at 202-547-1942 or Blum50@comcast.net .

Saint At Large & Masterbeat 2008's 'After The Ball' New Year's Eve Party

For its 8th year, Masterbeat New Year's Eve will become a global celebration. Host cities, Los Angeles and Miami promise multiple spectacular events over the weekend.

Get tickets here for the Masterbeat 2008 event happening in a city near you.

On New Year's Eve, Masterbeat will introduce you to the Future of Dance! Celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of 2008 at the largest New Year's event in the world!

In NYC, the 'Saint At Large' & Masterbeat 2008 will host an "After The Ball New Year's Eve Circuit Party at the The Nokia Theatre in Times Square. Featuring DJ Manny Lehman and special guests Les Go-Go Bleu de Montreal, the celebration will began at 12:30 am and will last until 8 am.

WDC Ranked #1 In Walkability

A Brookings Institution survey ranks the 30 biggest metropolitan areas according to the number of "walkable urban places" relative to the area's population. The WDC area is ranked as #1.

As one who, over the years, has embarked photo walks I could not agree more.

Click photo to view my Pedestrian 2007 and ongoing pedestrians project.

One of the reasons that I have always enjoyed WDC and NYC is due to their walkability.

WORK Holiday Party (NYC) - 8 December 2007

Georgetown BID's Holiday Open House . Friday, 7 December 2007 . 4:30 - 7:30 pm

The Georgetown BID will host its 3-hour Holiday Open House on Friday evening, 7 December 2007 from 4:30 until 7:30 pm at 1055 Thomas Jefferson Street, Suite L-11.

RSVP at jbell@georgetowndc.com or telephone 202.298.9222.

Here is a larger version of the flyer.

Here is my ongoing Georgetown flickr photo set and recent Downtown DC BID 10th Anniversary Celebration blog posting.

AT&T to Disconnect Pay-Phone Business After 129 Years

Dec. 3 (Bloomberg) -- AT&T Inc., the biggest U.S. phone company, plans to leave the pay-phone business after 129 years as more people use wireless handsets to make calls on the go.

The first pay phone, installed in 1878, had an attendant who took callers' money, AT&T spokesman Michael Coe said. Inventor William Gray set up the first coin-operated phone in 1889 at a bank in Hartford, Connecticut. Both devices were operated by AT&T predecessor companies.

Verizon Communications Inc., the second-biggest U.S. carrier, still operates about 250,000 pay phones and has no plans to exit the business, spokesman Jim Smith said. The company will shut down an unprofitable line unless the location pays a fee to keep it operating, he said.

"There are people who still need them, and so we still sell them,'' Smith said.

To contact the reporter of this story, email Crayton Harrison in Dallas at tharrison5@bloomberg.net.

Click the above 3 December 2007 photo of AT&T service technician Larry Wimberley working on a pay phone in Chicago IL by photographer Tim Boyle/Bloomberg News to read the complete article.

As a result of the increasing use of cell phones, in recent years, and not unlike my interest in call boxes, I have embarked on several ongoing pay phone and phone booth projects. So when searching the internet for information pertaining to this blog posting I was delighted to learn of the Pay Phone Project.

Friday's Photo of the Week . 30 November 2007

Fort Lauderdale Drawbridge . Las Olas Riverfront

Railroad Crossing . Old Fort Lauderdale . FL

Wednesday afternoon, 21 November 2007

Georgetown's 2nd Annual Tree Lighting - 2 December

Georgetown's 2nd annul holiday tree lighting kicks-off the holiday season with free photos with Santa, cookie decorating, snowflake making, and hot cocoa from Starbucks! Free and open to the public the event will take place on Sunday evening, 2 December 2007, from 4 till 6 pm at the Georgetown' Washington Harbour at 3000 K Street, NW, WDC

The Georgetowner Annual Holiday Store Window Competition

Though the Windows - Georgetown image to the left was taken as part of my Fall Fashion 2007 series I'm sure I'll revisit Georgetown over the holiday to capture The Georgetowner Annual Holiday Store Window Competition which I learned of via the Georgetown BIDness Newsletter dated 21 November 2007.

Deadline to participate is Monday, 3 December. In addition to a $50 reward the winner will be featured in an upcoming issue of The Georgetowner. For more information email adra@georgetowner.com or telephone 202.338.4833.

Click the image to my ongoing Windows of the World collection.