dc diary

A Birthday Worth Celebrating

By Jack Evans

July 2008

Last week we celebrated the 232nd birthday of our great nation. For those of us living and thriving in DC, it was another great holiday. I always look forward to being here in the city and participating in the various celebrations. The day usually begins with the annual Palisades Parade, which takes place on MacArthur Boulevard. All the politicians, neighborhood groups and others come out to participate in what is a family parade. My family, including our golden retriever Kelly, was out in force, throwing candy and seeing friends. Afterward, hot dogs and drinks were available for all.

Unfortunately, this year the Washington Nationals did not have a home game for the first time in three years. So instead, we continued our day with some neighborhood events. After a cookout at home, we headed to the National Mall to see the fireworks.

It seems like every year there is a threat of rain throughout the day, but the skies never seem to open. And once again, the rain held off during the fireworks display and it was terrific. The Mall is definitely the best place to watch and getting there is not a problem.

However, it is sad to see the level of security. I remember the days in years gone by when you could walk into the Mall without restriction. Whether the type of security provided is necessary is anyone’s guess.

The security is not the only thing that has changed over the past 232 years. We just saw two candidates for the Democratic nomination battle for months – a woman and an African-American – not long ago these individuals would not have been considered for the post of President of the United States. In August, I will be one of the 38 leaders from DC representing the city at the Democratic Convention, which will be hosted by Denver.

Locally, Washington continues to prosper in the face of an economic downturn elsewhere in our country. Tax collections are strong and the housing market in the city remains solid. We have our primary election on Tuesday, September 9, so I will be spending the next two months campaigning around the Ward.

My mother always said that summer really runs from July 4th to Labor Day. So enjoy it.

Jack Evans is the D.C. Councilman representing Ward Two. His column appears in each edition of this publication.