The Return of Snap-Shots by Julian

I am delighted to present the return of Julian’s snap-shots series. As you can see the questions have been changed. Future questions are still being tweaked so if you have any suggestions for some questions you’d like asked be sure to leave your suggestions in the comment section.

Name: Jihad
Age: 25
Cross-streets: 14th and Georgia

1.How old were you when you came to DC, and from where?

I’ve lived in this neighborhood for seven years. I always lived in uptown DC, even before that. This is a great neighborhood and I welcome the changes its receiving.

2.What was the original reason you came here?
I came here because of student loans. I went broke, and had to come home to mom.

3.Is Columbia Heights a good place to raise a family? Why, or why not?
I think so – I believe it’s a strong community, and a great place to raise a family. It has a great core of people who really believe in it. If you don’t like change, then I wouldn’t recommend raising your family here. I mean, I remember this area before Target or any of these condos were here. You could walk up six blocks and see straight down.

4.In your opinion, how does DC rate amongst other cities?
Well, DC isn’t too fast, and it isn’t too slow. It’s a hybrid city. Other cities have their nook and cranny neighborhoods that change, but DC moves in pieces, in phases. I’ve seen this city be patriotic and political, and its all good.

5. With an increasing number of newcomers and a declining number of locals, what would it take to unite the neighborhood?
It would take something financial, like what they’ve done so far, but in different places. They’ve invested so much in financially bringing the neighborhood up and haven’t really contributed anything to the spirit of the community. Things should be defined by the people, not the institutions.

Snap-shots continue after the jump.

Name: Angie
Age: 22
Cross-streets: 13th and Park

1.How old were you when you came to DC, and from where?
I moved here when I was 22, from Oakland, California!

2.What was the original reason you came here?
I came here to intern for Amnesty International and pursue a possible career in international aid and development.

3.Is Columbia Heights a good place to raise a family? Why, or why not?
Well, I don’t really know anything about the school system, but the area is diverse and accessible and I think it would be conductive to raising a family. The fact that its open to the public and kids can be exposed to people of different cultures and backgrounds is a definite plus.

4.In your opinion, how does DC rate amongst other cities?
Unfortunately, I’ve had to deal with race issues upon my moving here from the bay. For example, I’ve never been called a “chink” before. [Laughs nervously] For real! Twice in one night!

5. With an increasing number of newcomers and a declining number of locals, what would it take to unite the neighborhood?
I know it sounds cheesy, but if someone were to start a block party or something, it would be great! It would take someone to take the initiative to flyer the neighborhood, organize, especially with the summer coming up – good food, good music – hey, I’m down!

Name: Bryan
Age: 25
Cross-streets: 13th and Irving

1.How old were you when you came to DC, and from where?
I moved here when I was twenty-three, and I came from Michigan.

2.What was the original reason you came here?
I got a job with the Department of Justice.

3.Is Columbia Heights a good place to raise a family? Why, or why not?
I’d say no, because there is a gang problem I wouldn’t want my family exposed to, and I’m not sure how good the schools are. Kids need play areas, and the houses are almost too old for that here. Not that I want to live on a farm, but a backyard would be nice.

4.In your opinion, how does DC rate amongst other cities?
I like [DC] a lot. I like DC more than I like New York. DC is the Federal City – everyone is from everywhere else, and they come here for a purpose.

5. With an increasing number of newcomers and a declining number of locals, what would it take to unite the neighborhood?
I think places like [Tivoli Square] – communal places where people can meet and have a good time. I think it’s an important thing for all communities.