Maya Angelou, Dorothy Height Can't Get Meeting With Fenty
Heavy-hitters Maya Angelou and Dorothy Height are trying to weigh in on the eviction of the Recreation Wish List Committee from the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center.
The famous poet and civil and women's rights icon are concerned about the city giving the boot to the organization headed by Cora Masters Barry, estranged wife of Council member Marion Barry.
But several sources in the John A. Wilson Building say Mayor Adrian M. Fenty canceled a Saturday meeting with them and may have canceled another meeting Monday.
The Mayor's scheduling office worked with Dr. Angelou's staff to identify a meeting date, but couldn't settle on a date that worked for everyone. The Mayor is eager to meet with Dr. Angelou on her next trip to the District.
Council member Harry Thomas Jr. (D-Ward 5), who oversees recreation, said the mayor's office is underestimating the national reach that Barry established for the tennis center.
"You need to look at programs in a broad way before you disrupt them," he said.
Thomas said he will hold an oversight hearing on the eviction when the council returns from recess nexr month.
The eviction stems from the revocation of the committee's corporate registration. Though the committee is apparently clearing up the discrepancy, the city is still set to kick them out.
-- Nikita Stewart
By Christopher Dean Hopkins |
August 31, 2009; 3:25 PM ET
| Category:
Mayor Fenty
,
Nikita Stewart
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Posted by: shank2sb | September 1, 2009 6:13 AM
I never thought Fenty could be this much of an idiot! The Mayor apparently thinks entirely too highly of himself, and not nearly highly enough of two of the most famous and influential women of our time. I don't care if they want to meet with him for a game of Monopoly ... he should accommodate them in every possible way! How utterly disrespectful and ungracious of him. This gross miscalculation on his part will undoubtedly come back to bite him -- and rightfully so.
Posted by: Tootsumi | September 2, 2009 9:11 AM
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Who doesn't clear their calendar for the "Grand Dame" of this city?
Come on Junior. Don't "dis" Dr. Height and one of the greatest poets of our time. Be nice. Who knows, you may have a historical piece of poetry written in your honor and receive a powerful elixir of knowledge and wisdom. Redeem yourself. Do what is professionally right for the citizens of DC. Humble yourself and meet with these two ladies of purpose.