Celebrating Small Business Month in Ward 8
 
Dear Ward 8 Community,
 
As we close out Small Business Month this May, let's come together to celebrate and support the incredible contributions of our local small businesses and startups. This month offers a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to explore innovative ways to grow their organizations both directly and indirectly.
 
We are excited to announce the launch of Round II of the Ward 8 Community Investment Fund (Ward8CIF) on May 30th at Sycamore & Oak from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This initiative aims to provide essential startup and working capital to Ward 8 entrepreneurs. With $800,000 available through grants and loans, and awards up to $40,000, we are committed to fostering a vibrant small business economy in our community. Additionally, this round introduces a mini-grant opportunity for youth ages 14-21, offering up to $2,000 to help young entrepreneurs grow their businesses.
 
The mission of the Ward8CIF is to close the significant 81x racial wealth gap in DC by funding local entrepreneurs and strengthening our community through cultural building and job creation. It’s a sobering fact that Ward 8 businesses receive only 2.3% of all working capital from banks and financial institutions in DC. Our initiative seeks to change that by providing much-needed financial support and resources.
 
To qualify, applicants must be Ward 8 resident-entrepreneurs or business enterprises. Note that nonprofits are not eligible.  We are proud to partner with organizations such as the DC Community Development Consortium (DCCDC), DC Department of Small Local Business Development (DSLBD), LISC DC, Life Asset, Ballard & Spahr, H2DesignBuild, and Ward8 Arts Collaborative.
 
For more information or to RSVP and apply, please visit DCCDC.org by June 30th. Let's make this Small Business Month a catalyst for growth and success in Ward 8!
Sincerely,
 
Regards,

Trayon White, Sr.
Councilmember, Ward 8 
 

May 29, 2024

The District of Columbia's Council Committee of the Whole convened to vote on the FY25 Budget. Among the voices of all councilmembers in attendance, Councilmember Trayon White, Sr. stood out, both for his vote and the impassioned words he shared.

Councilmember White, representing Ward 8, has long been a figure known for his advocacy and community engagement. His stance on various issues often reflects the sentiments and concerns of his constituents, who look to him for representation and leadership in the corridors of power. As the council gathered to deliberate on the budget, all eyes turned to see how White would wield his influence.

In a session marked by intense discussions and impassioned pleas, Councilmember White's vote not to support the FY25 Budget emerged as a focal point. With the budget proposal on the table, White's decision carried significant weight, symbolizing not just a political stance but a statement about the priorities and values he upholds.

However, it was not just the vote itself that captured attention but the words that accompanied it. In his statements on the dais and to local media, he offered insights into the rationale behind his vote and the principles guiding his decision-making process.

Councilmember White underscored the importance of equity and justice in budgetary allocations, emphasizing the need to uplift marginalized communities and address systemic disparities. He spoke passionately about the pressing needs of Ward 8 residents, advocating for investments in education, healthcare, affordable housing, and economic development initiatives that would directly benefit his constituents.

Councilmember White's vote and impactful comments resonated with many in the chamber and beyond, drawing attention to the stark realities faced by underserved communities in the District. His words served as a reminder of the responsibilities inherent in governance, urging his fellow council members to prioritize the needs of those most vulnerable and marginalized.

DC Public Library
Ward 8 & Virtual Events
May 29 -June 4, 2024
 
Wednesday
Job/Resume Clinic - Job/Resume
Wednesday, May 29: 3:00pm - 4:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library - Conference Room B (6-12 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  JOB READINESS CLINIC
Job Seekers/Resume provides help to create your résumé, apply for posted jobs, research in demand careers, and find occupational training opportunities that meet your needs.
Teen Time
Wednesday, May 29: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  GAMING, FILM, ARTS & CRAFTS
Come out to the library to engage in different activities with peers. Movie night... Game night... and more! Also enjoy the resources of the library!
ANA-CON - Anacostia Anime Club
Wednesday, May 29: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  FILM, ARTS & CRAFTS
Come watch anime, learn to draw manga, and hang out with your friends!
Thursday
DC Jail Video Visitation
Thursday, May 30: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Meeting Room 1 (2-6 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
DCPL partners with DC Department of Correction to bring a Video Visitation program.
 
TechHelp
Thursday, May 30: 3:00pm - 4:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  COMPUTER CLASS, AGE-FRIENDLY DC
Onsite Technical Support for Customers
National Creativity Day
Thursday, May 30: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
 Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5  5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  FAMILY PROGRAM, ARTS & CRAFTS
Express yourself on National Creativity Day!
Lego Lab - What Will You Build?
Thursday, May 30: 4:00pm - 5:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5  5 - 12 YEARS OLD
EVENT TYPE:  STEM (SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH), FAMILY PROGRAM
Come play with Legos and other building materials. Kids ages 5-12 are invited to make and build at this open play time. 
May Book-to-Movie Night
Thursday, May 30: 4:00pm - 7:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Ora Glover Meeting Room (25-100 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  FILM, BOOK CLUB
Join us every month as we read a book and then watch its movie adaptation!
Chess for all Ages
Thursday, May 30: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
 Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS  5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  CHESS CLUB
Come play and learn from others in a friendly game of chess.
Email Troubleshooting - with Porsche the Digital Navigator
Thursday, May 30: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
 Arthur Capper TechExpress
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  COMPUTER CLASS
Come get drop-in help with all of your email questions!
Financial Empowerment Workshop
Thursday, May 30: 6:30pm - 7:30pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5  5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  WRITING
Bellevue Library invites you to join us in about financial Literacy.
Friday
DC Jail Video Visitation
Friday, May 31: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Meeting Room 1 (2-6 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
DCPL partners with DC Department of Correction to bring a Video Visitation program.
Game Hour
Friday, May 31: 3:30pm - 5:30pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   5 - 12 YEARS OLD
EVENT TYPE:  GAMING
Fun for the whole family! Join us for blocks, Legos, board games and Virtual Reality gaming. Ages 3 and up.
Saturday
Kemetic Yoga with Nzinga - Body N Mind Connectivity
Saturday, June 01: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  HEALTH
Kemetic Yoga with Nzinga at Bellevue Library in large meeting room on the Saturdays of May 4th, June 1st, and June 15th. Come out to learn how to become one with the universe by way of movement.
Build with Legos!
Saturday, June 01: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5  5 - 12 YEARS OLD
EVENT TYPE:  STEM (SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH), GAMING
Come to Bellevue and show off your Lego and Duplo building skills!
 
Asian American and Pacific Islander Film Festival
Saturday, June 01: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS BIRTH - 5 ADULTS  5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  FILM, ASIAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER MONTH
Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with us through beloved movies featuring AAPI characters Saturdays from May 11th to June 1st. Snacks will be provided as long as supplies last.
Sunday
No Events
Monday
Peer Outreach Specialist
Monday, June 03: 9:45am - 5:30pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Study Room 4 (2 Person Max Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Meet with a Peer Outreach Specialist
Play & Explore
Monday, June 03: 10:00am - 12:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5
EVENT TYPE:  FAMILY PROGRAM
Come play and explore in our board book area
Cartoons, Cereal and Coloring
Monday, June 03: 10:00am - 11:00am
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5  5 - 12 YEARS OLD
EVENT TYPE:  FAMILY PROGRAM, ARTS & CRAFTS
Join Anacostia Neighborhood Library to help celebrate the recent release of the DC Public Library Coloring Book by enjoying a bowl of cereal, watching cartoons, and coloring with us.
Preschool Storytime
Monday, June 03: 10:30am - 11:00am
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5
EVENT TYPE:  STORY TIME, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Share the joy of reading with your children ages 3-5 years! In these 30–40-minute programs, preschoolers and their grown-ups will explore stories and activities.
Discover Summer Kickoff!
Monday, June 03: 11:00am - 3:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS BIRTH - 5  ADULTS  5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  GAMING, FAMILY PROGRAM, DISCOVER SUMMER
Stop by for outdoor games and fun while you sign up for our summer reading challenge! Sweet treats and sign-up prizes available as supplies last.
Sit and Stitch
Monday, June 03: 2:00pm - 3:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Meeting Room 2 (8-16 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  ARTS & CRAFTS
Unleash your inner crafting pro at the library!
Tuesday
Peer Outreach Specialist
Tuesday, June 04: 9:45am - 5:30pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Study Room 4 (2 Person Max Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Meet with a Peer Outreach Specialist
Preschool Story Time
Tuesday, June 04: 10:30am - 11:00am
 Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5
EVENT TYPE:  STORY TIME
Come to hear stories, sing songs and move with us at Parklands-Turner! For ages 3 to 5
Hot Topics and Cool Drinks - A Conversation Circle
Tuesday, June 04: 3:00pm - 4:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Meeting Room 2 (8-16 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  CONVERSATION CIRCLE
Customers are invited to join a casual conversation with other library customers and individuals from the neighborhood. Snacks and cool drinks will be provided.
 
Beat the Production
Tuesday, June 04: 4:00pm - 7:00pm
 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library
AGE GROUP:   13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  MUSICAL PERFORMANCE, KNOW YOUR POWER
Come out and express yourself to the beat of music here at William O. Lockridge/Bellevue library, every Tuesday in the month of June.
Gamer's Galaxy - Gaming program at Anacostia Library
Tuesday, June 04: 4:00pm - 6:00pm
 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Ora Glover Meeting Room (25-100 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS)
EVENT TYPE:  GAMING
Teen gaming program (Register)
Happening Outside The Ward
Navigating the DCPS Special Education Process - A Virtual Workshop for Parents and Caregivers
Tuesday, June 04: 7:00pm - 8:00pm
 Virtual Program
AGE GROUP:   ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  HEALTH, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
Early Stages experts guide parents through the DCPS special education process, from referral to implementation of services for eligible children.
Bringing the Law Library to the Community - Justice Access
Sunday, June 02: 1:30pm - 3:30pm
 Shepherd Park (Juanita E. Thornton) Neighborhood Library - Conference Room 1 (2-12 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS  ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  LEGAL CLINIC
Are you facing a legal issue and don't know where to begin? Ask a law librarian!
Job Seekers Drop-In Clinic
Thursday, May 30: 2:00pm - 4:30pm
 Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library - Central Library - 205-J Computer Lab (12 Person Capacity)
AGE GROUP:   SENIORS ADULTS
EVENT TYPE:  JOB READINESS CLINIC, COMPUTER CLASS
If you are a job seeker in need of assistance with your job search process, the Adult Learning Department at DC Public Library invites you to the Job Seekers Drop-In Clinic!
 
Events Attended
Chess for all Ages- As a member of the committee, I attended Parklands Turner- DC Public Library chess event for kids. It was a fun and educational experience for the children, who learned new strategies and techniques for playing chess. The event also provided an opportunity for team building and collaboration among the children, as well as reducing any potential friction during the chess games. Overall, it was a great event that I recommend for future participation.
Asian American and Pacific Islander Film Festival-I recently attended a movie festival at the Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) DC Public Library in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Month. The event provided an opportunity to watch and appreciate films from different cultures while also promoting diversity and representation. It was a great way to learn and celebrate the rich cultures and stories of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community.