"How would you tell a five-year old what a thriving community looks like? Well-Being? Social capital? How to make it, build it, nurture it? How could these things, which we value so much but aren’t accustomed to counting, be so elegantly and simply conveyed as a GDP report; a single number that goes up or down? While the loudest voices during this down economy tell us the best thing we can do for the economy is to “shop!” and “spend!” what is the equivalent advice is for improving our communities’ well-being? And more importantly, who could tell me...who else is working to recreate this scene where I live now, in D.C., as the Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest plans to do July 24?"

“Hosted by Liberated Muse Productions, a Washington DC community-based arts event-planning group, the [Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest]seeks to help connect grown folks and their families the good music missing from the radio.”

““I had such a great time at the Hip Hop Soul Fest, [the organizers] really should be proud,” said Nia McLean. “I think it was awesome, and I am already looking forward to next year.””

“The DC area is rich in culture and history and this event not only promotes the significance of the music in our past, but also encourages the “history in the making” that is our musical future.”

“On Saturday afternoon I went, I saw, I conquered. I gathered too. At the Capitol Hip Hop Soul Fest in Northeast (NE), I gathered new friends, flyers and flavor. Most of all, I found a community celebration with the words – well, raps, spins, graffiti and break dancing, or -- Hip Hop -- all over it.”

“One of the summer’s best freebies is the Capital Hip Hop Soul Fest, which takes place on July 25 at Northeast’s Marvin Gaye Park. It’s a frugal alternative to big-budget hip-hop tour Rock the Bells, with its high ticket prices and overpriced merch, food, and beer.”