A Loss for Emerald Street

Emerald Street lost some of its diversity this week, and, more importantly, part of its heart. Last Tuesday, Michelle Winslow and her family moved from 1337 Emerald St. NE to far Southeast Washington.

Michelle just got tired of fighting city hall to fix up her house. She lived in city-owned housing, and the house had fallen into such disrepair that Michelle's mom had fallen through the floor some years ago. When the city's Housing Authority offered her the four-bedroom home in Southeast, Michelle relented because she is expecting twins, who she said she could not bear to bring home to a house in such poor shape.

Even though they have promised to come back and visit, I am going to miss little Tony's enthusiastic greeting as he flies down the sidewalk on his bike. I am going to miss Dee's blowing bubble gum and her joyous skip to meet and commiserate with her friends. I am just going to miss their "happy kids having lots of fun" sound. It was a nice greeting after a long day at work. §