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DC Allen and Ken Flick: Partners in life, business and LGBT community growth

D.C. duo pioneered a local gay business while empowering advocacy groups

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DC Allen, gay news, Washington Blade

DC Allen, on right, and Ken Flick have contributed to the development and growth of a broad and diverse range of local and national LGBT groups.

As the Washington region celebrates the annual Capital Pride parade and festival this weekend, the contribution that D.C. businessmen and Crew Club founders DC Allen and Ken Flick have made to the growth and development of the LGBT community in the nationā€™s capital is particularly noteworthy.

Flick and Allen, partners in life and business, highlight through their exemplary leading role a legacy of gay business owners who have fueled local advocacy groups, community-building initiatives, and direct service projects.

The entrepreneurial duo, a longtime couple that married at the District courthouse in 2012, has quietly and consistently contributed to the development and growth of a broad and diverse range of local and national LGBT groups of all types and sizes.

During the past two decades, the continuing financial benefactions of Allen and Flick ā€“ on behalf of multiple business ventures ā€“ have totaled nearly $650,000 in direct funding.

Co-owners of the Crew Club, a gay-oriented gym and spa located in the bustling Logan Circle neighborhood at 1321 14th St., N.W., south of P Street, Allen and Flick launched the business in 1995. At the time, the now-bustling commercial area was a desolate strip of largely vacant and underutilized buildings with scant enterprise destinations. Allen recalls a local resident stating at a community meeting during the early days of operation, ā€œIā€™ve never seen so many men in suits in the neighborhood.ā€

Also distinguishing the venue from its inception and reflected in a major recent refurbishment is the attractive interior design, high-end appointments, comfortable ambience, signature attention to detail, and patron service standards at the well-run and award-winning facility. The Crew Club has earned a national distinction for offering a full-range of amenities and representing the highest hallmarks of quality within the industry.

Flick, who primarily manages the administrative aspects of the business and other enterprise engagements from the coupleā€™s Fort Lauderdale home when not at their D.C. residence, shares the warm gregariousness and easygoing manner for which the couple is known.

A Washington-born native who grew up in suburban Maryland, Flick earned an undergraduate degree at Georgetown University and masterā€™s of Urban Planning from the University of Virginia. He worked at the Maryland Department of Transportation for more than 20 years and served as state liaison to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority beginning with the creation of Metrorail in the 1970s, also working with the regionā€™s Council of Governments.

Allen, who cuts an outsized stature with an even bigger personality, grew up in the Boston suburbs, where he studied hotel management. He worked in the restaurant and bar industry in both Boston and Manhattan, the latter while achieving success ā€“ and prominent theater, musical and movie roles ā€“ as a New York actor, singer and dancer.

After subsequently opening a coffee shop with friends in Boston, a series of brutal gay bashings in the Fenway cruising area angered Allen and led him to open a social club with a gym and spa. Inspired by attending a Quentin Crisp lecture regarding his being gay at a time in history when it was dangerous to be so, Allen discerned a community need for a social place and a center for community HIV education, as he had seen throughout Europe. ā€œI wasnā€™t going to let anyone stop me,ā€ Allen recalls, ā€œWe needed a place to go.ā€

It was this motivation, and a move to D.C., that prompted the Crew Club development as ā€œan activist and community supported space with a mission to build a positive view of gay men and their sexuality,ā€ Allen says.

The Crew Club has long been committed to working for a safer and healthier local gay community, providing on-site testing for HIV, syphilis and other sexually transmitted infections since opening. The business funded, and was instrumental in initiating, a $40,000 advertising campaign in local LGBT media promoting awareness of a resurgence of syphilis. That effort was widely credited with reducing the rate of infections among gay men in the metropolitan area, alongside financing safer-sex Tool Kit distribution expenses.

The Crew Club also supported the formation and development of the award-winning Gay and Lesbian Liaison Unit (GLLU) of the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department, and has forged strong ties with GLLU personnel.

Other beneficiaries represent a comprehensive list of entities engaging broad swaths of community life.

Four years ago, the Crew Club donated $25,000 to the then-expanding and relocating D.C. Center ā€“ the Washington areaā€™s LGBT community center ā€“ to help build out new offices and meeting space at the Reeves Center a few blocks north of the Crew Club at 14th and U streets. The Center is a project for which Allen, in particular, remains passionate. He is quick to encourage older LGBT residents to include the organization when planning for estate distributions.

In each of the past two years, Casa Ruby has been the recipient of $10,000 donations for its work offering life-saving services and programs to the most vulnerable members of the LGBT community and providing support for transgender individuals. Two months ago, 14 Crew Club staff members toured Casa Ruby when delivering a check to support the facility.

Allen is adamant and articulate regarding what motivates the coupleā€™s charitable giving-back. ā€œItā€™s an illusion that we have all of our rights and donā€™t have to fight for them anymore,ā€ he points out, adding that this is the reason that he and Flick have ā€œsplit our philanthropic activities between service and activism.ā€

Other recipients have included Food and Friends, the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance (GLAA), Us Helping Us, the D.C. governmentā€™s Office of GLBT Affairs, and Whitman-Walker Health. They have also lent their support to Team D.C., D.C. Sentinels Basketball Team, Federal Triangles Soccer Club, We Are Everywhere Bowling League, D.C. Gay Flag Football League, Gertrude Stein Democratic Club, Reel Affirmations, Miss Adams Morgan Pageant, Centaur Motorcycle Club, Federation for All D.C. Families, and the Imperial Court of Washington, D.C.

Their munificence also extends to national LGBT organizations such as the NAMES Project and AIDS Memorial Quilt, Lambda Legal, CenterLink, Stonewall Museum and Library, National LGBTQ Task Force, and SAGE Advocacy and Services for LGBT Elders. Allen and Flick also support organizations in the Fort Lauderdale area, where they maintain a home, including SunServe, Equality Florida, the Gay Menā€™s Chorus of South Florida, Our Fund, and the Pride Center of South Florida.

Allen has been presented the Distinguished Service Award by the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance, the Distinguished Service Award by the D.C. Center, and an Outstanding Volunteer Service Award by Brother, Help Thyself

Allen was the recipient of the Capital Area Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce Business Leadership Award in 2012. He received the Washington Blade ā€œBest Business Personā€ designation in 2014.

Crew Club was also named ā€œBest Place to Meet Men Other Than Grindrā€ two years ago. ā€œWeā€™re retro in that regard,ā€ notes Allen, ā€œseeking human interaction, battling to be sex positive and promoting healthy behaviors.ā€

Additional information on the Crew Club is available online at CrewClub.net.

Mark Lee is a long-time entrepreneur and community business advocate. Follow on Twitter: @MarkLeeDC. Reach him at [email protected].

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Real Estate

Donā€™t procrastinate buying your home

Some experts predict rates will fall in June

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Spring is in the air and itā€™s a great time to buy a new home.

As springtime fills the air, cherry blossoms are blooming, much of the year still lies ahead and many have started to think about how they are progressing with their 2024 goals. If the dream of buying a house was put on hold when the interest rates went from 3% to almost 8%, and life got in the way of an idea that had gotten onto your to-do list, maybe now is the time to dust it off. 

Mortgage lender Tina Del Casale from Sandy Spring Bank says, ā€œThere is still hope the Fed will be happy with inflation numbers by June to finally pull the trigger on lowering interest rates.ā€  

The rates might not be as low as they were in 2021, but historically, they are still not as high as they were 20 years ago. Some peopleā€™s parents remember getting interest rates that were 12%, 14% or even higher.   

One of the biggest questions I get at homebuyer seminars is about is the process. What is buying a house ACTUALLY like?  I usually tell them that itā€™s like anything else. One step at a time. One form at a time. One bank transfer at a time. One house showing at a time. One home inspection at a time. If you have the wherewithal to plan a vacation, you can buy a house. 

  • Finding a Realtor
  • Finding a lender to get pre-approved (how much is your budget and what is a comfortable monthly payment)
  • Are there any first-time buyer programs that could be used? Is there down payment assistance?
  • Looking at the houses.
  • Finding one you like, and putting an offer together:
    • An offer usually involves a sales contract, any special forms that the jurisdictions require (lead-based paint acknowledgements, what appliances and systems in the house are included/excluded, if the home is part of a homeowners association, or a condo association, etc.)
    • Any forms related to getting an inspection done.
    • Who is selling the house, who is buying the house, how much is it being sold for, where it is exactly, and who are the others involved in the transaction (title company, agents, etc.)?
  • Getting any inspections done.
  • Negotiating any changes in the sales price or terms, or credits for inspection items.
  • Getting the final approval for the loan and then going to settlement.

Many people get interested in buying a house, but the ā€œunknownā€ of it all can be daunting. It could be that the best way to think about it, is that like most things in life, you canā€™t cross every bridge BEFORE you get there. You just take it one day at a time. Some things will be surprisingly easy. Some things will require the advice of experienced lenders, Realtors, home inspectors and title attorneys.  

But if the process doesnā€™t begin somewhere, somehow, the idea just stays in oneā€™s head in the ā€œto do listā€ file.  And then 3 years go by, 5 years go by, 7 years go by. And your friends that DID buy a house laugh themselves to the bank when they go to sell the house they bought 3 years ago, 5 years ago, or 7 years ago.

If you need any recommendations for a local lender or Realtor, please donā€™t hesitate to ask.

Joseph Hudson is a referral agent with Metro Referrals. Reach him at [email protected] or 703-587-0597.

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Real Estate

Down payment strategies: Financing your home purchaseĀ 

Understanding the options key to unlocking the door to a dream home

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Looking for your dream home? First, you need to understand how to make the down payment.

Navigating the path to homeownership can be a complex journey, especially when it comes to accumulating the necessary down payment. For members of our LGBTQ community, understanding the available options for saving and financing this crucial aspect of home buying is key to unlocking the door to their dream home. Let’s explore effective methods and resources specifically designed to support LGBTQ individuals on their path to homeownership.

Traditional Savings Strategies

Saving for a down payment often begins with traditional methods such as setting aside a portion of your income into a dedicated savings account. High-yield savings accounts and automated savings plans, some offering up to 5% interest in today’s market, can expedite the process, providing a disciplined approach to accumulate funds over time. Additionally, exploring investment opportunities that match your risk tolerance can offer potential growth for your down payment savings.

Down Payment Assistance Programs

A variety of down payment assistance programs exist to help homebuyers with their initial costs. These programs often offer grants or low-interest loans to first-time homebuyers or those who haven’t owned a home in the past three years. 

It’s essential to speak with a GayRealEstate.com agent to determine what programs may be available, plus online research into local and state assistance programs, as many are designed to support individuals in specific communities, including the LGBTQ+ community.

For medical professionals, police, teachers, firefighters, and other community heroes, there are several special loan and assistance programs designed to help with home purchases, often offering benefits like down payment assistance, reduced closing costs, and more favorable loan terms.

The Hero Home Loan Program provides first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, with benefits such as lower interest rates and reduced closing costs. This program aims to make homeownership more accessible by offering more flexible credit score requirements and down payment assistance .

For educators, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and medical professionals, the Everyday Hero Housing Assistance Fund (EHHAF) offers closing cost assistance through gift funds. This program is designed to support those who serve their communities by making homeownership more affordable, with no repayment required for the grant fundsā€‹ā€‹.

The HUD Good Neighbor Next Door Program offers up to 50% off the list price of homes for law enforcement officers, pre-Kindergarten through 12th-grade teachers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. This initiative aims to encourage community revitalization by assisting these professionals in homeownership within the communities they serveā€‹ā€‹.

Homes for Heroes provides assistance specifically to first responders and offers significant savings through Hero Rewards when buying, selling, or refinancing a home. On average, participants save $3,000, with the program offering real estate and mortgage specialist connections tailored to the needs of first respondersā€‹ā€‹.

LGBTQ-Friendly Lending Options

Finding a lender that understands and supports the unique needs of our LGBTQ community can make a significant difference. Some lenders and organizations specialize in offering inclusive financial products and resources to assist LGBTQ+ homebuyers. These may include specialized mortgage products, financial planning services, and guidance through the home buying process.

The journey to homeownership is a milestone that requires careful planning and support. Remember, every step taken towards saving and financing your home purchase brings you closer to the dream of homeownership.

(GayRealEstate.com offers valuable resources and advice tailored to meet the unique needs of our LGBTQ+ community in their journey towards homeownership. For more comprehensive guidance and support in navigating the home buying process, visit GayRealEstate.com choose an agent and start a no-obligation conversation today.)

Jeff Hammerberg is founding CEO of Hammerberg & Associates, Inc. Reach him at [email protected].

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Real Estate

Turn your bare walls into captivating focal points

Paint, wallpaper, statement installations and more

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Whether you prefer artwork, paint, wallpaper, or statement walls, there are countless ways to adorn and decorate your walls.

Are you tired of gray walls and white kitchen cabinets with white granite or marble countertops? Have you gone back to the ā€œBuilder Beigeā€ that was popular in the ā€˜90s?

Your walls are the blank canvases of your home, waiting to be transformed into stunning expressions of your personality and style. Whether you prefer vibrant artwork, paint, eye-catching wallpaper, or statement walls, there are countless ways to adorn and decorate your walls to elevate your space. Here’s a guide to help you turn those bare walls into captivating focal points. 

Wallpaper: Wallpaper has again become a versatile option for adding texture, pattern, and color to your walls. Whether you prefer subtle designs or bold prints, there’s a wallpaper to suit every taste. 

It now even comes in peel and stick rolls, so you donā€™t have a mess of water and paste. For some new designs, check out www.spoonflower.com

Before selecting wallpaper, consider the scale of your room and the atmosphere you want to create. For small spaces, opt for light, airy patterns to make the room feel more spacious. Conversely, in larger rooms, you can go bold with intricate designs or vibrant colors to make a statement. Don’t be afraid to mix and match wallpaper with paint, or even wallpaper the ceilings for a unique and dynamic look.

Statement Walls: Statement walls are a bold way to add personality and drama to any room. From accent paint colors to textured finishes, the possibilities are endless. Consider using a contrasting color or texture to highlight a specific wall and create visual interest. For a contemporary touch, try incorporating geometric patterns or asymmetrical designs with strips of wood. Hand-painted murals are another option for creating striking statement walls. Choose a mural that reflects your interests or transports you to another world for a truly immersive experience.

Paneling/Brick: The shiplap phase may be dying out, but there are still many ways to use wood and paneling in your wall dĆ©cor. Reclaimed wood is a popular option, as are wood slats such as the ones found at www.woodpanelwalls.com. Use them on walls or ceilings, or as a background for wall-mounted televisions and sconces. Amazon also has lots of options for wood veneer available and exposed brick is popular in many contemporary homes. If you donā€™t have a brick wall to uncover, select from options such as lightweight faux brick or stone.

Artwork: Art has the power to breathe life into any room. When choosing artwork, consider pieces that resonate with you personally and complement your existing dƩcor. Experiment with a mix of styles, sizes, and mediums to create visual interest. Hang artwork at eye level to ensure it is easily visible and balanced within the space. Enhance gallery walls by arranging multiple pieces in a cohesive layout. Remember that art is subjective, so whether you choose an inexpensive poster or a gallery quality painting, select pieces that speak to you.

Photo Displays: Showcase your favorite memories and moments with a curated photo display. Whether it’s a collection of family photos, travel snapshots, or artistic prints, arranging photos on your walls adds a personal touch to your space. Try out different frames, sizes, and layouts to create a gallery-style display that reflects your unique style. It makes a nice presentation on that odd wall going up your stairs. 

Mirrors: Mirrors are not only functional but also serve as decorative accents that can enhance the visual appeal of any room. Strategically placing mirrors on your walls can create the illusion of space, brighten dark corners, and reflect natural light. Choose mirrors with interesting frames or shapes to add an extra layer of style to your dƩcor. Try different sizes and arrangements to find the perfect balance between form and function.

Textile Hangings: Textile hangings are a bohemian-inspired alternative to traditional wall art. From tapestries to woven rugs, textile hangings add warmth, texture, and color to your walls. Hang a large tapestry behind your bed as a dramatic headboard alternative or layer smaller textiles with framed artwork for a cozy, eclectic look. Consider mixing and matching different textures and patterns to create visual depth and dimension.

Adorning and decorating your walls is a creative and personal process that allows you to infuse your space with personality and style. The key is to trust your instincts and have fun with the process. Use different techniques, colors, and textures until you find the perfect combination that speaks to you and transforms your walls into works of art. With a little imagination and creativity, you can turn any blank wall into a stunning focal point that reflects your unique taste and aesthetic.

Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with RLAH Real Estate/@properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her via DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.

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