Monthly Archives: October 2024

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream at 660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE.

Today, circa 1pm.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Near Eastern Market Opens Friday, Nov. 1

By Larry Janezich

Posted October 31, 2024

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream located near Eastern Market at 660 Pennsylvania Avenue SE – will open on Friday, November 1 at 3:00 p.m.

To celebrate the opening, Van Leeuwen will be offering $1 scoops from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm on Friday, November 1.  Additionally, the first 100 customers in line will receive a free Van Leeuwen tote.

Specific to the Capitol Hill store, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream will offer a 15% discount to Congressional employees with a Congressional ID Badge. The same discount will apply to the store’s neighbors at the Marine Barracks, with a valid military ID.

Regular hours after Friday:  Van Leeuwen Capitol Hill Ice Cream will be open daily from 11am – 12:00am.

Matt Miller, write in candidate for ANC6B04

Another Write In Candidate for ANC6B04

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 30, 2024

Matt Miller has announced his candidacy for the ANC6B4 seat which currently does not have a candidate listed on the ballot for the November 5 election.  This appears to be the only seat contested by two announced write-in candidacy in the four ANCs which are regularly covered by CHC.  (CHC has previously reported on the write in candidacy of Brian Gorman for the seat.) 

Matt Miller’s candidate statement:  “I am running for ANC 6B04 because local representation is extra important in Washington, DC, where federal politicians use our services and tax revenue but refuse to grant us a vote in Congress.  I used to live in this district for several years and recently moved back with my fiancée in July, drawn to return by the sense of peaceful and friendly community hopefully to start raising a family.

My professional experience leading EV and clean policy efforts for a large manufacturing company informs my key focus for this role: continue the progress toward less car-centric infrastructure on Capitol Hill.  Protected bike lanes (namely, 11th St.), universal daylighting at crosswalks in the neighborhood, increased public transit and green spaces, and other traffic-slowing measures will ensure that young families and long-time residents alike are safely prioritized.

I also hope to protect every neighborhood resident’s access to opportunity, through small business-focused growth on Barracks Row and Pennsylvania Ave., housing options that balance affordability and local history, and an improved education system that keeps resident young people safe and engaged both inside the classroom and outside school.

I love this community and I would be humbled and honored to represent it as a fierce advocate on the ANC.

ANC6B Public Safety Committee meeting, Monday, October 21. Lindsey Appiah, Deputy Mayor for Justice and Public Safety at center. Committee Chair Frank Avery is at lower left. Vice Chair Jody Kent Lavy is at upper left.

Mayor’s Office vs. Councilmembers on 911 Call Center

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 29, 2024

ANC6B’s Public Safety Committee, chaired by Commissioner Frank Avery, met on October 21 to hear presentations from three city officials on different public safety policies and issues.

Deputy Mayor for Justice & Public Safety Lindsey Appiah presented on the current decline of gun violence in the city.  She touted her office’s work on adapting the provisions of the Gun Violence Strategic Reduction Plan to DC.  She also talked about challenges at Office of Unified Command (OUC) and listed a host of those problems. 

CM At-Large Christina Henderson talked about the intersection of public health and public safety.  On OCU she said she didn’t understand why call taker jobs are entry level positions.

Ward 1 CM Brianne Nadeau ripped the Mayor for not making OUC a priority, saying there’s no excuse for callers being put on hold. 

The discussion of OUC, addressed by all three speakers, dominated the meeting.

Deputy Mayor Appiah acknowledged challenges: 

• Staffing is a huge issue, and said that 300 people recently applied and after going through “all the suitability,” 19 were offered positions – and that’s an ongoing problem.
• Technology and infrastructure problems including issues with Verizon which she claimed were responsible for calls being dropped.
• Mental and wellness of call takers – OUC is looking at infrastructure and technology – including AI – to address.
• Too many calls for emergency service which are not emergencies.
• Numerous diversion programs take time to handle, making calls longer.

She pushed back at some criticisms of OUC: 

• Charges of lack of transparency “when OUC is probably one of the most transparent systems if you look at 911 systems.” 
• Talk of (not meeting) national standards “when OUC actually is exceeding national standards.” 

She said, “Everybody from Director to the Mayor or myself are all deeply committed – nothing is more important than someone picking up when you call 911….The Mayor has made clear our 911 system has to be a no- fail system….

CM Henderson cited a bill introduced by CM Nadeau to “shake things up” at OCU and one by CM Robert White requiring OCU to provide more transparency.  She said that she didn’t know what plans there were for a hearing but said that they deserved one.  She didn’t understand why call taker jobs are considered entry level positions and paid like entry level positions while being such high stress jobs.

CM Nadeau – who joined the meeting after Deputy Mayor Appaih’s presentation and did not hear it – was highly critical of the Mayor and OUC Director Heather McGaffin, and made the following points:

• Dispatch center is in trouble and Bowser administration has not made it a priority. 
• Last July she (Nadeau) sent the City Administrator and the Director of OUC a request to share simple data points re agency operation.  There was no response, even after repeated follow up. 
• She cited legislation she has introduced to separate out Fire and EMS calls from police calls and have Fire/EMS referred to a communications center under DC Fire and EMS.  The legislation, she said, was modeled after a successful pilot program which transferred medical calls to a nurse triage line but “the mayor killed it…why so successful a program has not been implemented is a big question mark.  The bill would also require that the Fire Department report data on performance and errors to the city council and the mayor.”  She said she learned on Twitter that CM Pinto, (chair of the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee) will not give the bill a hearing. 
• Tools being provided are not being used, such as $1 million in additional funding for hiring is not being used.  
• Alluding to CM Robert White’s bill, she said more transparency will help us because it brings home the point.  Many times you get public witnesses and you just get denial.  She said she did not hear the Deputy Mayor’s earlier presentation – but that (denial) sometimes happens when you get the Deputy Mayor of the Director of OUC – “Things are going great, things are fine…”  She says she is “underwhelmed and infuriated by various responses.” 
• Re the claim that OUC is meeting national standards. She said, “I think (Appiah) is probably referring to response times.“ 
• “There is no excuse for being put on hold when you call 911.  Period.  This is one of the most fundamental functions of government.  People assume when they’re calling 911 their call will be answered and someone will send help…but in the District of Columbia you can’t actually expect that.”
• She urged concerned residents to testify at an upcoming series of oversight round tables.  She said, “Use every opportunity there is to raise the issue no matter what the hearing is about.  Bring it up every time you can – the more you bring it up the more the agency will have to respond.  I’m not giving up on this – there’s no other option than success.” 

The meeting ended after committee vice chair Jody Kent Lavy moved that the ANC6B Public Safety Committee recommend that ANC6B issue a letter to the Chair of the city council Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety requesting hearings on bills by CM Robert White on OUC transparency and CM Brianne Nadeau on separating out calls to DC Fire Department and EMS which were not scheduled to receive a hearing and ask that they receive a hearing before the end of the current city council session.  The motion was agreed to unanimously.  The full ANC is expected to consider the motion at its November meeting on 12. 

Here’s a link to the OCU 911 Performance Dashboard:  https://ouc.dc.gov/page/911-performance-dashboard-beta      

The New Candidates for ANC6B Seats

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 28, 2024

Here are the candidates running for ANC6B – photos and statements for the first time candidates.  There is one contested seat in ANC6B06 and one vacant seat with no candidate.

Incumbents who are seeking reelection are not pictured.  Nor is current Commissioner and Chair Edward Ryder who is running a write in candidacy for ANC6B 08 having decided to run after no candidate emerged for his seat.  

Early Voting Centers are open Monday, Oct. 28 – Sunday, Nov. 3 from 8:30am to 7:00pm.

The closest early voting center to Capitol Hill is the Sherwood Recreation Center located at 640 10th Street, NE.  The Walker-Jones MS, King-Greenleaf Rec, and Arthur Capper Community Center are also nearby.

ANC6B01 – Tyler Wolanin – is unopposed in his bid for election. 

Tyler Wolanin’s candidate statement (ANC6B01):  “I am running for ANC in district 6B01 so that I can help the voters of our corner of Ward 6, here in the shadow of the Capitol, stay engaged and informed, and to work with the District government on their behalf. I hope to carry on Frank Avery’s good work keeping our streets and parks safe, healthy, and walkable; working with local businesses; and connecting our unhoused neighbors with resources.

Though the ANC has limited purview, it fills a vital role as a body that residents engage with to their voice heard on District policy and administration. If elected, I promise to work on behalf of the district’s residents in their dealings with the District Council and the executive branch departments. I will bring energy and experience to the Commission, and I will make sure to use the resources and connections at my disposal to best represent the interests of the Capitol Hill community. I am eager to continue learning from my fellow residents, and will not hesitate to dive into any issue that is brought to my attention.”

ANC6B02 – current commissioner Jerry Sroufe is unopposed for reelection

ANC6B03 – current Commissioner David Sobelsohn is unopposed for reelection. 

ANC6B04 – Brian Gorman is seeking election as a write in candidate. 

Brian Gorman’s candidate Statement:  “I decided to run as a write-in candidate for ANC6B04 commissioner after learning that we didn’t have a candidate on the ballot.  I’m a big believer in public service and I want to make sure that our neighborhood is well represented on the ANC.  I’ve lived in Ward 6 since 2008, and my wife and I are raising three kids here, so we obviously are deeply invested in ensuring this is a great place to live.

There are a lot of things that I’d like to drive forward as ANC Commissioner. I’ve worked in small companies and I want to do what I can to support a vibrant small businesses community on Barracks Row that benefits the neighborhood.  We’ve all probably noticed warmer temperatures, and I believe we have to keep expanding our tree canopy to help mitigate the effects of this change.  Thankfully violent crime in the city has been dropping, but there are still plenty of safety concerns, and I plan to partner with Charles Allen and MPD to sustain progress on this front.  And with DDOT’s help, we can keep improving vehicular and pedestrian safety in our lovely walkable community.

Ultimately, though, I believe my main job as commissioner would be to represent my neighbors and be a strong voice for them.  As such, I intend to be a good listener, ask questions, and be responsive to neighbors’ needs.  It would be a privilege to serve our community.”

ANC6B05 does not have a declared candidate. 

ANC6B06 (contested) – Burl Haigwood is a candidate.

Burl Haigwood’s Candidate statement:  “Chander Jayaraman, our 6B06 ANC representative for the past 14 years, asked me to run for his seat based on my experience (Linked In Profile) and his experience working with me in the neighborhood.

I’ve lived in the Lincoln Park area for over 20 years. Five years ago, my wife Patty and I returned to the neighborhood where our children were born. I have 24 years of experience in government affairs, coalition-building, and problem-solving at the national level. Locally, I’ve organized meetings, developed a multi-agency crime-prevention plan, and volunteered for neighborhood cleanups and other initiatives.

I will focus on three issues that impact everyone — crime prevention, environmental justice, and rat abatement.

Improving public safety impacts personal health, home values, employment opportunities, and taxes. Increasing crime rates lower tourism, sales at local businesses, and job opportunities, thus depleting government funds that could be used for crime prevention, environmental justice, and rat abatement. A rising tide of environmental and economic protection raises all boats.

I will take a common-sense approach to creating the common ground needed to bring people together who can solve our most pressing issues—because “We’re Better Together!” The neighborhood suggestion box will always be open at Burl.Haigwood4ANC6B06@gmail.com .”

ANC6B06 (contested) – Anna Krebs is a candidate. 

Anna Krebs’ Candidate statement (6B06):  “As a lifelong resident of 6B06, I’ve witnessed firsthand both the challenges and opportunities that shape our cherished neighborhood. My deep connection to this community isn’t just professional—it’s personal. This is where I grew up, where I formed my values, and where I hope to serve as your next Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner.

My approach to leadership is simple: listen first, act second. I believe that the most effective solutions come from meaningful collaboration with residents who have lived through our neighborhood’s evolution. Whether you’ve been here for decades or are a newcomer, your voice matters in shaping our future.

I’m committed to:

Fostering transparent communication between residents and local government

• Balancing development while preserving our neighborhood’s unique character
• Enhancing public safety through community-driven initiatives
• Creating an inclusive dialogue where all residents feel heard

I don’t claim to have all the answers, but I pledge to work tirelessly to find them—together. With your support, we can build on our community’s rich history while ensuring 6B06 remains a vibrant, safe, and welcoming place for all.

Let’s work together to shape the future of the neighborhood we all call home.

ANC6B07 – current Commissioner Vince Mareino is unopposed for reelection. 

ANC6B 08 – Current commissioner and ANC6B chair Edward Ryder is running as a write in candidate.

ANC6B09 – Karen Hughes is unopposed in her bid for election. 

Karen Hughes Candidate statement:  My name is Karen Hughes and I am running unopposed to represent SMD 6B09, home of The Roost, Hill East Burger, Trusty’s, and the Congressional Cemetery.

I hope that, as an ANC Commissioner, I will have the opportunity to represent the interests of our community in city decision-making. We can anticipate a few big projects over the next two years, including an overhaul by DDOT of the Pennsylvania x Potomac Ave intersection. Along the way, I want to advocate for pedestrian safety. I encourage my neighbors to visit my website and take a short survey: www.KarenHughesDC.com.

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 27

Another Capitol Hill residence falls to non-profit ownership. Two blocks from the U.S. Capitol, The Free Peoples of Russia House is at 301 Maryland Avenue, NE.  In June, Mayor Bowser directed city agencies not to enforce the regulations against commercial use of residential properties.  From the website:  “Regular events featuring representatives of the Russian opposition will be held at the House, including seminars, discussions, fundraising activities, and more. It will provide a space for business meetings and negotiations, with all necessary conditions in place. The House will serve as a venue for systematic communication between resistance participants and the American political elite.”  CHC is sympathetic, but still….  See more here:  https://freerussia.house/

The Third Street SE underpass has five new murals – part of the DC Walls Mural Festival – an international festival in collaboration with NASA.  The Festival is the local chapter of the World Wide Walls Family based in Hawaii.  A curated group of artists from around the globe came to DC to paint larger-than-life murals at an annual celebration of art and creativity.  https://dcwallsfestival.com/

CHC spoke with artist Luther Wright, who was working on his mural Sunday morning.  He said he usually portrays jazz musicians in his murals which appear across the city and that this one is his rendition of DC on the Moon.  The inclusion of jazz musicians in the piece is homage to the DC jazz culture.  Here are photos of the five murals and the names of the artists who created them:

A work in progress by Luther Wright (crouching left center).  For more:   https://www.instagram.com/lutherwrightart/?hl=en

Brandon Hill.  For more: https://www.instagram.com/chickens.of.insta/?hl=en

Marcella Marie Verchio. For more: https://www.instagram.com/marcellamariev/?hl=en

Tom Kim. For more: https://www.instagram.com/deathbynarwhals/

Julia Chon. For more: https://www.instagram.com/kimchi.juice/?hl=en

The Week Ahead:

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 27

Monday, Oct. 28 – Sunday, Nov. 3

Early Voting Centers are open from 8:30am to 7:00pm.

The closest early voting center to Capitol Hill is the Sherwood Recreation Center located at 640 10^th Street, NE.  The Walker-Jones MS, King-Greenleaf Rec, and Arthur Capper Community Center are also nearby.

Monday, October 28

ANC6B will hold a virtual Executive Committee meeting at 7:00pm. 

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://anc6b.org/

Agenda:  To set the agenda for the November full meeting of ANC6B. 

ANC6A Community Outreach Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

*Note: This meeting date has been adjusted to avoid conflicts with holidays, religious days, or other events.

To join the meeting, go here:  https://dc-gov.zoom.us/j/84156784081

Among items on the draft agenda:

• Announcements & Updates
• Reminder of Sunday morning cleanups on I Street NE – People’s Front of H Street Group
• Art All Night H Street Youth Street Art activation is now on display
• Voting Poll Locations

Wednesday, October 30

The Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee will hold a hybrid meeting at 7:00pm in the North Hall of Eastern Market.

To join the meeting, go here:  TBA

Agenda:  TBA

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:

Saturday, November 2

 Capitol Hill Art League opening reception for “BY DESIGN.”  ,

This is the League’s last show of the 2024 season – Saturday, November 2, from 5:30-7:00 pm, at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, located at 547 7th Street, S.E.

Art League members were invited to submit 2- or 3-dimensional works in any media depicting the theme “By Design.”  The selected works include a wide array of photographs, paintings, sculptures, prints and mixed media creations.

This members-only exhibition, was juried by Jan Kern, will be on display in the CHAW Gallery at the Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW), through the month of November.

In addition to viewing the art in person at the Arts Workshop, the art will be available online after November 2, on the CHAL website at: https://www.caphillartleague.org/bydesign2024

Saturday, November 2

Congressional Cemetery 

Celebration of Dia De Los Muertos at Historic Congressional Cemetery.  In collaboration with special guest and Capitol Hill resident, Rosa Moreno, the chapel in the center of the grounds will be transformed into a place of learning, remembrance, and celebration of the “Day of the Dead.”  See here:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dia-de-los-muertos-celebration-at-congressional-cemetery-tickets-1039514685407

Editorial:  I Cancelled My Subscription to the Washington Post

By Larry Janezich

Posted October 25, 2024

I’ve cancelled my subscription to the Washington Post after decades of daily dependence on it as one of my primary sources of information because Post owner Jeff Bezos killed a proposed editorial endorsing Vice President Harris. 

In this action, I join many others and I, like they must, feel deep regret and sympathy for those whose livelihoods will be affected – not the least of whom is my carrier who almost unfailingly delivers the paper every day before 7 am when I leave for coffee.

I hope this cancellation will be temporary and that the paper’s owner will stop interfering with the editorial content of the publication.  As long as he does, how can I or anyone trust the information the newspaper brings.  Democracy Dies in Darkness, indeed.     

Brian Gorman, write in candidate for ANC6B04

Write In Candidate Announces Bid for ANC6B Seat

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 25, 2024

There are 345 ANC seats across the city and 54 of them have no candidate listed on the ballot.  Three of those seats are in Capitol Hill’s ANC6B. 

ANC6B resident Brian Gorman announced yesterday that he will run a write in campaign for one of those seats – the seat being vacated by Commissioner Frank D’Andrea who decided not to seek reelection.  In September, ANC6B Commissioner and current Chair Edward Ryder reconsidered his decision to retire and launched a write in campaign for his otherwise-to-be vacant seat. If the remaining seat is filled by a so for undeclared write in candidate (who must register as a write in candidate within 7 days AFTER the election), the Board of Elections will declare the seat vacant, requiring a special election next year.   

In a statement, Gorman said:

“I decided to run as a write-in candidate for ANC6B04 commissioner after learning that we didn’t have a candidate on the ballot.  I’m a big believer in public service and I want to make sure that our neighborhood is well represented on the ANC.  I’ve lived in Ward 6 since 2008, and my wife and I are raising three kids here, so we obviously are deeply invested in ensuring this is a great place to live.

There are a lot of things that I’d like to drive forward as ANC Commissioner. I’ve worked in small companies and I want to do what I can to support a vibrant small businesses community on Barracks Row that benefits the neighborhood.  We’ve all probably noticed warmer temperatures, and I believe we have to keep expanding our tree canopy to help mitigate the effects of this change.  Thankfully violent crime in the city has been dropping, but there are still plenty of safety concerns, and I plan to partner with Charles Allen and MPD to sustain progress on this front.  And with DDOT’s help, we can keep improving vehicular and pedestrian safety in our lovely walkable community.

Ultimately, though, I believe my main job as commissioner would be to represent my neighbors and be a strong voice for them.  As such, I intend to be a good listener, ask questions, and be responsive to neighbors’ needs.  It would be a privilege to serve our community.”

Ballot drop boxes are open across the city.  The ballot box closest to SE Capitol Hill is near the north entrance to Eastern Market.  Early voting and Sherwood Rec Center starts Monday, October 28. 

The Week Ahead … & Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 20, 2024

The Stuart and Mimi Rose’s collection of books and manuscripts is housed in the renovated Folger Library. Being in the presence of so many greats works and celebrations of creativity and accomplishment evokes a feeling of awe.

Entering the west end of the exhibit you find the first gallery.

In one of the first cases: J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings Trilogy

“The collection includes gallery proofs, the first printed versions of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.  Each contains written annotations by Tolkien’s editors, along with some corrections made by Tolkien himself.” 

Advance Press Copy of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have A Dream” Speech

“This advance press copy of one of the most important speeches in U.S. history is extraordinary not for what is included, but for what is missing from it.  At the 1963 March on Washington, as Dr. King neared the end of his prepared speech, his close friend, gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, shouted to him:  “Tell the about the dream, Martin.”  He then set aside his text and began ‘So even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream.’  Dr. King went on extemporaneously, inspiring his audience then with words so energizing and memorable that they continue to affect audiences in the same way today.” 

Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. 

“Jane Austen wrote Pride and Prejudice (originally titled First Impressions) between 1796 and August 1797.  She was not yet 21.  It was published in late January 1813 in a small edition of approximately 1500 copies.  This book is one of those 1500 copies.”

Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows

“The Wind in the Willows is a beloved children’s classic, but it is one of the hardest books to collect.  Because most of the earliest copies were heavily read, their dust jackets have been discarded or destroyed long ago.  This book – telling the story of Mole, Ratty, and Badger as they try to help Mr. Toad after he becomes obsessed with motorcars – is in beautiful condition and looks as it would have when it was first published in 1908.”

Egyptian Book of the Dead

This book was designed to be placed in the grave of a woman named Ta-er-pet at Akhmim, a city in Upper Egypt on the east bank of the Nile, in the first century BC, to accompany her on her journey to the afterlife.  The ancient Egyptians’view of the afterlife was of a world very like their own.  They produced elaborate prayers, hymns, and magical spells to assist the dead in their transition to a good afterlife.”

Apollo 11 Flight Plan Flown to the Moon

“This single printed sheet has traveled to the Moon and back in the Apollo 11 mission that first landed human beings on the Moon.  It contains detailed flight annotations by astronauts Neil Armstrong in blue ink and by Buzz Aldrin in a black marker.” 

For more on the Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection, go here: https://www.folger.edu/explore/the-stuart-and-mimi-rose-collection/

The Week Ahead…

Highlights: 

• Monday:  Deputy Mayor for Justice & Public Safety Lindsay Appiah, DC Council At-Large CM Christina Henderson, and Ward 1 CM Brianne Nadeau appear separately before ANC6B Public Safety Committee. 
• Saturday:  Used paint drop off at The Armory. 

Monday, October 21

ANC6B Public Safety Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 6:30pm.

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://anc6b.org/

Agenda: 

• Guest Presentation #1: Deputy Mayor for Justice & Public Safety Lindsay Appiah
• Guest Presentation #2: DC Council At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson
• Guest Presentation #3: Ward 1 Councilmember Brianne Nadeau (7:20pm)
• Event Update: November 14 DC Community Public Safety Forum on Gun Violence Reduction Strategies
• Community Shoutouts & November Agenda Planning

ANC6D Transportation Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://bit.ly/48bxNhx

Agenda:  TBA

Tuesday, October 22

ANC6B Southeast Library Taskforce will hold a hybrid meeting at 6:30pm.

Meeting location will be 700 Pennsylvania Ave. SE; Second Floor (entry adjacent to Trader Joe’s).  Virtual Option is Available.

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://anc6b.org/

Agenda:

• Renovation update.
• Interim Library Facility.
• Generally: Meeting with Charles Allen Specific issues.
• Sign removal.
• Strategy to increase use: flyer – Text & design – Distribution. Audit
• Audit

ANC6A Alcohol Beverage & Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

For info on how to join the meeting, go here: https://anc6a.org/community-calendar/

Agenda: 

• Discussion of a new Class C restaurant license with sidewalk café, alcohol carry out and delivery endorsements at Alero H Street at 1301 H Street NE.
• Discussion of a new Class C tavern license with sidewalk café, entertainment, and cover charge endorsement at DC Capitol Square Bar and Grill at H Street at 1401 H Street NE.
• Discussion of a substantial change to the Class C Tavern license from an interior capacity of 66 to 198 at Dirty Water, 816 H Street NE.
• Discussion about rescheduling November and December 2024 ABC meetings (currently scheduled for November 26th and December 24th).

Thursday, October 24

ANC6C Grants Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

 For info on how to join the meeting, go here: https://anc6a.org/community-calendar/

Agenda:  TBA

Saturday, October 26

Used paint drop-off at the DC Armory, 1910 East Capitol Street, 9:00am – 1:00pm. 

DC has partnered with non-profit organization PaintCare who will make donations which are in ready-to-use condition available for free pick-up at the site.  Sign up in advance especially if arriving by car here:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/paint-drop-off-and-giveaway-event-dc-armory-lot-3-registration-993792378757

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:

Wednesday, October 23

Hill Center Event 7:00 – 8:00pm.

• Talk of the Hill with Bill Press Featuring Celebrated Spy Novelist Daniel Silva
• “Silva has been called his generation’s finest writer of international intrigue and one of the greatest American spy novelists ever. Compelling, passionate, haunting, brilliant: these are the words that have been used to describe the work of award-winning #1 New York Times bestselling author Daniel Silva.”
• $10.00 Register here:  https://bit.ly/3NxVQ0p

Tuesday, October 22

Hill Center Event 7:00 – 8:00pm. 

Tuesday, October 22

• SOLD OUT Our City. Our Music. Our Writers.
• Featuring Philip Kennicott & Anne Midgette
• Kennicott will discuss his book, Counterpoint: A Memoir of Bach and Mourning, and Midgette will discuss her forthcoming book, Escapement.

But tickets are still available for session two on:

Tuesday, December 10 – 7:00 – 8:00pm

Our City. Our Music. Our Writers., Featuring Daniel Boomhower and Carol Oja

• “The December 10 session of this series presents two outstanding speakers who will discuss their path-breaking scholarship on the performance history of classical music in Washington, DC. Daniel Boomhower, Research Director at Dumbarton Oaks, will outline Musical Capital: Sound and Power in Washington, D.C., the forthcoming book he co-edited, and describe the seminal role played”…
• Get Tickets:  $10.00 – 50 tickets left –  https://bit.ly/3NxkvT2

Friday, October 25  

Hill Center Event 7:00 – 9:00 pm

• Global Sounds on the Hill: LOBOKO Live: Congolese Dance Music.  Loboko’s unique style draws on classic Congolese soukous, rumba, and contemporary seben delivered in a punchy small band format.
• $20 – Register Here https://bit.ly/3UhSySZ

Sunday, October 27

Hill Center Event 4:30 – 6:00pm

• Stone Room Concerts Upcycled Celtic Folk Trio House of Hamill.  Whether they’re ripping through a set of original jigs and reels, adding lush three-part harmonies into traditional folk ballads, or cracking up an audience with stories from the road, they put on a show.
• $20 – Register Here https://bit.ly/40aQQqg

CM Charles Allen hosted a virtual panal discussion on enforcement against illegal cannabis shops on Thursday night.

Here’s Why those Gifting Shops Haven’t Been Closed Yet

by Larry Janezich

Posted October 19, 2024

Last Thursday night CM Charles Allen hosted a virtual panel discussion of enforcement measures against illegal cannabis shops featuring representatives from the seven city agencies involved. 

There are over 100 unlicensed cannabis shops in DC and 12 legal ones.  One of the legal ones is in Ward 6; several unlicensed shops in the Ward have applied for medical licenses and continue to operate as gifting shops during the application process.   Ten unlicensed shops have been closed by the Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA); all involved undercover purchases from shops that were selling cannabis for cash – some were marketing other illegal substances and one was found with an unregistered firearm on the premises. 

It’s noteworthy that all of the closures so far have been shops selling cannabis for cash.   ABCA Director Fred Moosally said that in order to close an establishment it has to pose an imminent danger to the health and safety of the public.  Otherwise you have to have cease and desist order* in effect or an unregistered firearm or act of violence or selling a schedule one substance.  In DC cannabis is not a schedule 1 substance.   Moosally said that under the law you can’t just close them down for selling cannabis, adding that legislation now before the mayor will make it easier to close places. 

The 90 minute panel discussion included participants from the seven agencies which comprise the team collaborating to address the illegal cannabis market:  ABCA, MPD, OAG, DC Health, USAO, DOB, and DLCP. 

As the lead agency, Director Moosally got most of the questions during the discussion.  Representatives of other agencies chimed in to explain the role their agencies play in the effort. 

Allen expressed the frustration he and Ward 6 residents feel that ABCA has not moved faster to close down illegal operations and he repeatedly asked agency representatives why this is. 

Moosley, said that so far this year ABCA has issued over 84 warnings, over 26 cease and desist orders.  Three of the ten closures have been in Ward 6, and that one of the most recent was on Thursday – Capitol Budz at 607 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.

He says he understands the frustration about why ABCA is not moving faster on enforcement but that the agency only has one inspector.  ABCA is in the process of hiring two more.  He said that recently, ABCA’s authority had been increased, allowing them to increase enforcement and closures.  And that while closure sounds simple, some of the issues which slow the process include testing, drafting notices, holding hearings, and lack of storage for seized product.  Further, with over 100 unlicensed shops, ABCA is under pressure from ANCS and community groups and is going through the list of all the places people are complaining about.  “We’re catching up … enforcement action will continue to pick up.” he said.

On a related matter, near the end of the discussion, Moosally mentioned an opinion issued by OAG indicating that the definition of cannabis includes CBD, and that means CBD is illegal in DC.  He did not say there are any plans to address enforcement regarding the sale of CBD which can be sold through legal licensed cannabis shops but not in the illegal unlicensed market place. 

ABCA has instituted a new dashboard on their website to track the activities of the multiagency inspections of unlicensed cannabis establishments.  The website has a link to anonomously report suspected illegal cannabis businesses.  See here:  https://abca.dc.gov/page/joint-agency-inspections-illegal-cannabis-businesses#gsc.tab=0

*Here’s a compilation of information from forum participants explaining the process for shutting down an illegal cannabis store.

• ABCA sends a warning.  (New legislation will allow ABCA to skip the warning and proceed directly to:)
• Issuing of a cease and desist order to business owner.  In addition, the landlord is notified.  (Moosally says landlords are anxious to cooperate because they are subject to a $10,000 fine for allowing the illegal operation.  Landlords have worked with ABCA to start an eviction process and terminate leases.)
• After receiving a cease and desist order, businesses may work collaboratively with ABCA to shut down or move or close.  Or the business owner can request a hearing before ABCA.  The business can continue to operate during the hearing process.  The hearing takes place within 15 days.
• If ABCA sustains the cease and desist order at the hearing, ABCA will move within approximately 15 days to close the shop. 
• But.  If the closure order is sustained the business owner can appeal the decision to the DC court system.  Again, the business can continue to operate during the appeal process.  (This appears to be the reason Safe House at 335 H Street, NE, is still operating months after receiving a cease and desist order.)
• If the business owner does not request a hearing, ABCA tries to close the shop within 30 days.   
• For businesses that won’t work with ABCA, the agency conducts undercover buys – but “not necessarily gifting operations” – according to Moosally.      
• The purchased product is field tested make sure it’s THC.  Sometimes the product is adulterated with Schedule 1 substances.
• DC Health considers issuing its own separate cease and desist order regarding selling edible products or issuing an order for summary closure for other health violations. 
• With evidence of illegal sales, ABCA requests a summary closure notice from the Office of the Attorney General (OAG).
• OAG drafts a summary closure notice and ABCA enlists the help of MPD to schedule a closure and padlocking.  OAG turns around a closure request in three days after reviewing the evidence for legal sufficiency to ensure the charges can stick. 
• If the closure is effected, product is seized from the location.

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

By Larry Janezich

Posted October 14, 2024

Update on renovation of Rumsey Aquatic Center – ANC6B Commissioner Jerry Sroufe announced at last week’s ANC6B meeting that the Department of General Services has selected IStudios (Architectural & Design) and WKM/Hess (General Contractors) to modernize the Rumsey Aquatic Center.  DGS says that the first community meeting, led by the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), will occur this fall and will allow the community to meet the Design/Builder and discuss the modernization process and next steps in delivering a “world-class facility.”  The dates of community meetings will be posted on this blog and on other media outlets. 

ANC6B05 Commissioner Kasie Durkit resigned Saturday, October 12 – Last Tuesday night ANC6B Commissioner Kasie Durket announced that she would be stepping down from the commission on October 12 because she is moving out of her SMD.  She expressed thanks to the commission, neighbors, CM Charles Allen’s office and staff, the mayor’s office and local reporters.  She listed projects and events she had been involved in during her term as commissioner, including the Southeast Library Interim Services, community safety walks with MPD, community clean ups and working with Guerilla Gardeners, the 10th Street alleyway restoration project, Motts Market Art Walks ad community meetings.  She singled out Commissioner Jerry Sroufe for thanks saying he had encouraged her to run: “I think this is public service of the highest order – and it has been such an honor to work you all.  I’m sad to say goodbye, but excited for the next chapter.”  Durkit had previously announced that she would not seek reelection.  At present, there is no candidate for the open seat, although it could be filled by a write-in candidate or by special election after the seat is declared vacant by the DC Board of Elections. 

ANC6C01 Commissioner Christy Kwan steps down at the end of the month – At Wednesday night’s ANC6C meeting, Commissioner Christy Kwan announced that this was her last ANC meeting and that she was stepping down as commissioner at the end of the month.  She cited family emergencies as the reason for her resignation and thanked everyone.  Kwan had previously announced that she would not seek reelection.  At present, there is no candidate for the open seat, although it could be filled by a write-in candidate or by special election after the seat is declared vacant by the DC Board of Elections. 

Ballot Drop Box at Eastern Market.

Ballot Drop Boxes are Open – Ballot Drop Boxes for filing mail in ballots opened on Friday, October 11.  The three Capitol Hill Ballot Boxes are located at Eastern Market, Northeast Library and Payne Elementary School.   Here’s a link to a map with the locations of Mail Ballot Drop Boxes, Early Voting Centers, and Election Day Voting Centers: https://dcgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/nearby/index.html?appid=763576faa0b1470ca0559c377cf3b497    

Some key dates to keep in mind:

• Friday, October 11 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 5:  Mail ballot drop boxes are open across the city.
• Monday, October 28 – Sunday, November 3:  Early Voting.  You can now go to any Early Voting Center District-wide.  The Ward 6 EVCs are Walker-Jones MS, King-Greenleaf Recreation Center, Sherwood Recreation Center. Rosedale Recreation Center and Arthur Capper Community Center.
• Tuesday, Nov. 5: Election Day.  The polls will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and you can go to any Vote Center in the District, including nine in Ward 6.  Mail ballots can be put in Drop Boxes until 8:00pm.  

Pennsylvania Avenue SE AT&T outlet hit by vandals.  Saturday night, vandals smashed four of the plate glass window at the AT&T outlet in 700 Penn.  The windows had double panes and only the outer safety glass windows were broken.  This follows a similar attack on the windows of Georgetown Opticians in the 600 block of Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, in early September. 

Saturday afternoon, the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation presented HillFest – six hours of jazz at Eastern Market Metro Plaza.  Among those featured were Oya Palmer Hut, Potomac Garden Drummers, Bobby Felder & the Capital All Stars Big Band, the Capitol Hill Jazz orchestra, Eric Byrd Trio, Herb Scott Quartet, and the JOGO Project.  The event was sponsored by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation.  Above is a capture of the Capitol Hill Jazz Orchestra – it’s heavy of the brass:  four saxophones, four trombones, and two trumpets. 

Saxophonist and vocalist Herb Scott (second from left) founded the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation in 2017.  For more on Scott, go here:  https://herbscottmusic.com/bio

For more on the Foundation, go here:  https://www.capitolhilljazzfoundation.org/wp/

The Week Ahead…

Highlight:  Thursday:  Zoom Panel discussion on Illegal Cannabis Shops in Ward 6 7:00pm- 8:30pm.  (See below.)

Tuesday, October 15

ANC6D will hold a virtual meeting.

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://www.anc6d.org/virtual-meetings/

Agenda: 

Community Announcements (Commissioners and Audience)

Public Safety Report(PSA 103,105,106)

Community

Presentations

• Pepco – Stacks Substation Repairs, Renovations (J. Jordan)
• b. ABCA – Illegal Dispensary Activity/Enforcement in SW (S. Weniger)

Consent Agenda

Development, Planning, and Transportation

• DCHA – Follow-up to September Discussion (CM Phelps-El, CM Hamilton)
• DC Central Kitchen – New Loading Areas NOI (CM Kramer)
• DCPS – Invite for Nov. on Amidon-Bowen Swing Space (CM Pawley)
• 25 Potomac Ave. SE – PUD Modification of Consequence (C. Roddy, J. Begert)
• PSC Streateries Guidelines (CM Link)
• ANC 6D Committee Reports and Committee Appointments
• Transportation Committee Report (K. Sander)
• ABCA Committee Report (CM Link)
• Brisa – Motion to Protest (CM Kramer)
• Love 420, Medical Cannabis Retailer – Motion to Protest (CM Hamilton)
• Volo Sport & Social Club – Motion to Protest (CM Hamilton)
• Fish Shop DC – Motion to Support CA (CM Levine)

Commission Updates & Administrative Matters

Chair’s Report

Treasurer’s Report

Thursday, October 17

ANC6D Alcohol and Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting.

For a link to join the meeting, go here:  https://www.anc6d.org/abc-committee/

Agenda:  TBA

Zoom Panel discussion on Illegal Cannabis Shops in Ward 6 7:00pm- 8:30pm. 

CM Charles Allen hosts a panel discussion of DC’s new enforcement measures against illegal cannais shops featuring representatives from the city agencies involved.

The webinar will be a chance to learn about the laws applying to legal and illegal cannabis businesses, enforcement in your neighborhood, and what comes next. Register here. https://dccouncil-us.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4i7dLRQ3Thad78mGhCYxJg#/registration

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:

Ongoing: – now through October 25th.

Capitol Hill Montessori School Launches First Ever On Line Auction

 “We currently have donations from more than 100 local businesses and CHML families, and more items are being added daily. Bidding is open on gift cards for a variety of restaurants, fitness classes, photography sessions, sports and theater tickets, apparel, camps, music lessons, and more. Exciting offerings include dinner for two at a Michelin starred restaurant, a weekend in the Shenandoah, an educational tour with Anacostia  Riverkeeper, sleepaway camp, and private soccer sessions. Bidders can also score gift cards for local casual dining great for families.

The auction runs through CHML’s Fall Festival on October 25th, where things will really heat up with a *live auction* for some seriously amazing prizes—think suite box tickets for Capitals games, a chance to see Cyndi Lauper, and *just in time for Christmas*… Mariah Carey tickets! We will also be hosting a silent auction featuring incredible classroom-wide projects that our students will be working on between now and the Fall Festival.”

Link to online auction:  https://new.biddingowl.com/AuctionLanding?QueryAuctionId=4297aac4-af2b-45c2-b8b8-6a9cd60302ca

Friday, October 18

Library of Congress Free Concert Series 8 p.m.:  Eddie Palmieri

Latin jazz pianist Eddie Palmieri, a multi-Grammy winner renowned for his innovative blend of jazz and Afro-Caribbean rhythms. The evening opens with a short documentary film, “Eddie Palmieri: A Revolution on Harlem River Drive,” that demonstrates how he masterfully fused Latin music with soul, funk and jazz to create a sound that was both politically charged and undeniably danceable.  There will be no pre-concert talk for this event. Reserve tickets here. https://www.loc.gov/item/event-413923/eddie-palmieri/2024-10-18 /

Sunday, October 20

Hill Center American Roots Concert Series: Kyshona – 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm

Quicksilver Productions Foundation is thrilled to present Kyshona Armstrong as part of the free, outdoor American Roots Music Series.

“Kyshona Armstrong has been called upon to represent for soul and gospel in roots, rock and folk lineups and to bring singer-songwriter sensibilities to R&B bills. But wherever she plants her feet, she does so with righteous conviction and a strong sense of her own voice.”-NPR Music

Shows are held RAIN or SHINE!  All attempts will be made to have the show outdoors, even in case of rain.

If the show moves inside, doors will open at 4pm.  Reserve tickets here.  https://www.hillcenterdc.org/event/american-roots-concert-series-kyshona-armstrong/#tribe-tickets__tickets-form