We, the undersigned, protest the Peace Corps’ intention of closing down the Black Rooster Pub, located at 1919 L St.. N.W. Washington, D.C., on Nov. 3, 2009, and using this area to expand its office space. We respectfully ask that you allow the Black Rooster Pub to remain open. While we applaud and deeply appreciate the outstanding and noble work that the Peace Corps does, we strongly feel that the importance of long-standing local establishments should be considered, as well. The Black Rooster Pub has been in existence since 1970, and has contributed millions in tax dollars to the DC economy for almost 40 years. It has proven itself to be a welcome "port in a storm" to many DC workers and residents, providing a pleasant atmosphere, dining option, and friendly social gathering spot. The Black Rooster Pub supports many charitable organizations such as Save the Children, Make A Wish, Children’s Hospital, Toys for Tots, MS, Leukemia Association, the Avon Breast Cancer Walk, Nova Rugby Foundation, and many others. One charity that we have a 15-year relationship with is KIDS, Inc. which provides a last wish for terminally ill children. We have raised close to $100,000 for them. In addition to this, we are a 30-year sponsor of the Northern Virginia Rugby Club, as well as a long-term sponsor of several local softball, dart and hockey teams. We host weekly trivia nights, and are in the process of forming a relationship with the Wounded Warriors Foundation, which provides funds for those returning from combat and are in need of assistance. We ask that you consider the breadth of such an impact as closing down the Black Rooster Pub would have on local revenue during these poor economic times, as well as how such a closure would affect the employees whose jobs would be taken away. We hope that in doing so you decide not to move forward with plans of expansion. Thank you for your time and we look forward to your response. Respectfully, The employees, patrons and friends of the Black Rooster Pub