Dear Neighbors,

As we reflect on this Thanksgiving week in the District of Columbia, I am reminded of the many blessings we share as a community. Yesterday, as families and friends gathered to celebrate, we took a moment to appreciate the support, unity, and resilience that define our city.

Thanksgiving is not only a time for giving thanks but also an opportunity to recognize the importance of coming together to strengthen the bonds that make our neighborhoods thrive. Whether through acts of service, supporting local businesses, or simply offering a kind word to a neighbor, every gesture of care helps build a stronger, more connected community.

I am grateful for the privilege of serving as your At-Large Councilmember and for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated individuals, organizations, and families who make D.C. the vibrant, diverse city it is. Let us continue to uplift one another—not just during the holiday season, but throughout the entire year.

Wishing you all a season filled with peace, gratitude, and joy.

In service,
Kenyan

Legislative Update: Electrical and Gas Utility Underground Work Wage Act of 2024

On Tuesday, November 26th, the Council of the District of Columbia held a Committee of the Whole meeting where my colleagues and I discussed and advanced my legislation, Bill 25-587: The Electrical and Gas Utility Underground Work Wage Act of 2024. This bill, which passed both the Committee of the Whole (COW) and first reading, proposes extending a prevailing wage (a higher minimum wage) to construction laborers working on qualifying underground utility projects in the District—specifically those led by contractors and subcontractors of gas and electric utility companies.

The bill outlines two key scenarios where construction laborers working on gas and electric underground utilities will be eligible for this prevailing wage. By ensuring fair compensation for these workers, we aim to promote higher wages and improved working conditions for those contributing to critical infrastructure projects in our city.

Team McDuffie In The Community

A Memorable D.C. Turkey Bowl

This year’s 54th Annual D.C. Turkey Bowl was a thrilling football game, with the Dunbar Crimson Tide defeating the Coolidge Colts 35-21 to repeat as champions of the D.C. Interscholastic Athletic Association. It was Coolidge’s first appearance in the game in over a decade, and the competition was fierce.

As always, the Turkey Bowl is a beloved Thanksgiving tradition in D.C. I enjoyed chatting with familiar faces in the crowd, all united in support of our youth athletes. These young players demonstrate incredible skill and determination, and their hard work is an inspiration to us all.

Supporting our youth sports programs is essential for helping these young people grow and succeed. Let’s continue to cheer them on as they represent our city with pride!

It was an honor to join the 25th Annual Safeway Feast of Sharing event on November 27th, celebrating a tradition that exemplifies community and giving. A heartfelt thank you to Safeway for 25 years of support, nourishing both our bodies and spirits.

I also want to thank Angie Gates and the Events DC team, as well as Mayor Bowser and my colleagues on the Council of the District of Columbia, for their ongoing commitment to serving our residents.

This event underscores the importance of access to healthy food and reminds us that ensuring no one goes hungry is vital to a thriving community.

A special thanks to the volunteers whose dedication made yesterday possible, and to our veterans and seasoned residents—your contributions are honored and appreciated.

Let’s continue to support each other, not just during the holidays, but year-round.

Friendsgiving Celebration at Rosedale Recreation Center

On Friday, November 22nd, Team McDuffie had the privilege of supporting the Friendsgiving event at the Rosedale Recreation Center, hosted by the wonderful Ms. Sareka. This annual celebration brings together neighbors, families, and friends for a time of fellowship and gratitude.

We are proud to continue our partnership with Ms. Sareka, who works tirelessly to create meaningful moments for our community.

This year, Team McDuffie not only enjoyed the celebration, but also shared valuable resources and information with attendees, ensuring that our neighbors are aware of the services and opportunities available to them. We are committed to connecting residents with the support they need and empowering our community to thrive.

My office will always look forward to continuing the tradition of unity and service in our community.

On Monday, Team McDuffie was invited, along with many other government and community leaders, to sit at the table with Deacon Tim Tilghman of St. Avila Catholic Church. Deacon Tilghman, a native Washingtonian and Community Ambassador for the Community Renewal We Care Team, began working on community renewal in Ward 7 a few years ago. Community Renewal is a faith-based nonprofit organization founded in Louisiana to bring together caring partners to restore the foundation of safe and caring communities. Statistics show proven success in significant reductions in crime when communities are restored.

As Deacon Tilghman said, each human being in the neighborhood can be safe, loved, and joyfully fulfilled. We can work together to implement changes that will create the necessary foundations for building sustainable community connections with measurable results.

You too can be part of this extraordinary movement that positively impacts lives. Start by picking three people who you know want to restore their communities and share this information with them. Consider creating a mentorship program for young kids, getting involved through sports, cleaning up and beautifying parts of your neighborhood, or hosting listening sessions to give your community a voice.

To learn more, visit https://communityrenewalcapitalarea.org/ or email Deacon Tilghman at [email protected].

Thank you, Deacon Tilghman, for your wisdom and activism, and thank you to Thalia at The Church of Scientology for hosting Monday's event. I also thank all of you reading this who are inspired by Deacon Tilghman’s message. Join the cause and take action. Remember, it doesn't always have to be big; sometimes small changes lead to great results.

Despite the initial rain, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the following organizations for coming out to meet, greet, and assist those in need within our community:

• DHS/Community Connections
• Fire & EMS
• Office of Tenant Advocate
• U.S. Attorney's Office
• DBH
• Church of Scientology’s Drug Free World

Your dedication to helping our neighbors is truly appreciated!

Additionally, Team McDuffie was proud to participate on Tuesday, November 26th, where we shared valuable resources and connected with residents to provide information on available community services. It was inspiring to see so many engaged individuals eager to make a positive impact in their neighborhoods.

Thank you to everyone who joined us in service, and to the community for your continued support. Let’s keep working together to strengthen our city, one neighbor at a time.

Small Business Spotlight

Tari Cash is the CEO and founder of CitySwing, with locations in Downtown DC at 901 NY Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, and in Reston, Virginia. CitySwing makes golf fun and enjoyable by offering a relaxed, social environment where people can practice their swing indoors using advanced simulators while receiving expert instruction. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned player, CitySwing combines golf lessons, Sip & Eats, and group event spaces, making it a great place to improve your skills while having a good time.

Tari’s love for golf started at 16 when her mom set up a memorable Father’s Day surprise with golf lessons and a tee time at The Brookline Country Club. Despite the rough start, it sparked a lifelong passion for the game. Today, Tari values golf not only for its strategic challenge but also for the way it brings people together. Through CitySwing, she aims to make golf accessible and enjoyable, especially for women and people of color, in a fun and inclusive atmosphere.

The DowntownDC Holiday Market is Back for the Season!

This holiday season, the DowntownDC Holiday Market is returning to F St NW (between 7th & 9th St). The market is open daily from November 22 – December 23, 2024, from 12:00 noon – 8:00 p.m. (Closed on Thanksgiving Day).

This year, the market will feature a diverse array of vendors offering something for everyone, including apparel & accessories, art, bath & body products, candles, children's entertainment, food & drink, gourmet gifts, home décor, imported handicrafts, jewelry, novelty items, stationery & prints, toys & games, and much more!

Whether you're visiting our vibrant city or a local enjoying the festive spirit, this market is a can't-miss experience. Come out and support local artisans, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy the holiday cheer. See you there!

For more information, visit their website: https://downtowndcholidaymarket.com/