Brent Holiday Tree Sale – December 4th- 7th at Canal Park
The Brent Elementary School PTA will hold its annual Holiday Sale from December 4th- 7th at Canal Park while Brent is under construction. Proceeds from the sale are used to provide critical resources to students at this public elementary school on Capitol Hill.
Fraser fir trees, greenery, Hanukkah items, and more are available for presale until December 3rd at www.brentholidaysale.org. In addition to trees the outdoor, on-lot sale will include wreaths, garland, poinsettias, winterberry, and Hanukkah items. All customers will also have an option to have their trees delivered on the day of purchase and the option for in-home setup.
In addition, Brent is partnering with Van Ness Elementary for the poinsettia sales where all proceeds from those sales will go to their PTO.”
The sale is also partnering with Everyone Home DC – a local nonprofit working to ensure everyone has access to a safe, affordable, and comfortable home – the “Donate a Tree” program delivers trees, ornaments and lights to approximately 40 families in need this holiday season. Donation trees may be purchased online here.
This year’s on-lot sale will be open at Canal Park at 190 K Street SE on the following days and times:
The theme of this year’s US Botanic Garden Holiday Display is “Dino-mite” featuring large-but-mostly-not-life-size models of dinosaurs which ruled during the Cretaceous Period from 145 million years ago to 66 million years ago. As with the displays of models of Washington landmarks inside the conservatory, the models are all made from plant parts. Some of the animals depicted in the outdoor landscape which also features a G-gauge model train display are shown below. The exhibit is free and runs through January 4th (closed Christmas Day). For more, go here: https://www.usbg.gov/holiday
Pterodactyl – smaller than you might think, it had a body about a meter long. Not a true dinosaur, but belongs to a group of flying reptiles.
Parasaurolophus – belongs to a genus of duck-billed dinosaur. Known for its sizable cranial crest which was likely used to enhance communications and hearing.
Triceratops – the name means “three horned face.” Recent interpretations claim the horns and face shield were more likely associated with courtship and dominance displays that for defense.
Argentinosaurus – at 100 feet long and 150,000 pounds, one of the largest animals that ever lived. Discovered in 1987.
Tyrannosaurus rex – 40 feet long and 18,000 pounds. Diet: carnivore.
Here’s the 2025 Congressional Holiday tree – a 53 foot Red Fir from Nevada – awaiting its illumination at 5:00pm on Tuesday, December 3. If you’re think that this year’s tree sooks smaller than last year’s tree, you’re correct. Last year’s tree was an 80 foot Sitka Spruce from Alaska. The tree will be lit from dusk until 11:00pm, through January 1.
The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week
by Larry Janezich
Posted December 1, 2025
The Week Ahead…
Monday, December 1
ANC6b Planning & Zoning Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
as you are. – 500 8th Street SE. Renewal of Class “C” Tavern License with Entertainment Endorsement.
New Applications/Substantial Changes
Good Stuff Eatery – 303 Pennsylvania Avenue SE (ABRA-078027), Substantial Change from a Retail Class “D” Restaurant to a Retail Class “C” Restaurant.
Protests/Other Updates
High Demand 11th Street SE. Request to Modify/Extend Hours.
Ambar – 523 8th Street SE. Ongoing negotiation regarding settlement agreement and protest hearing. Parties have requested continuance while discussions proceed.
ALOHA – Medical Cannabis Retailer (Second Application). 539 8th Street SE. Second application for medical cannabis retailer license, including Delivery Endorsement. ANC6B has retained legal counsel (Kerry Verdi) to assist with protest.
Continue Discussion for “Vision for Barracks Row”/Roundtable PlanningFinalization of Roster for Barracks Row Roundtable
MPD 1st District Community Advisory Committee Hosts an In-Person and Online Community Meeting for public feedback on safety, security and policing from 6:30pm to 7:30pm.
Location: Autozone Building at 1208, H Street, NE.
For info on how to join the virtual meeting, go here: https://1dcac.com/
Agenda:
Chinatown
The Wharf
The Navy Yard SE
Capitol Hill, Old City, H Street NE Shooting
1300 block of H Street and update on drug arrests on 8th Street, NE
G Street and K Street NE safety concerns
H Street NE crime and drug concerns
Follow up on burglaries, car jackings/stolen auto and homicides
Policing update on 14th Place NE and other areas
Update 15th and Independence SE
North Capitol Street, NE and NW
Wednesday, December 3
ANC6C Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee usually meets on the first Thursday of the month but has not yet posted a notice on its website.
ANC6B Transportation Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
19th Annual “Brickie” Awards –6 to 8 p.m. at Skyline 609, located at 609 H Street NE. Free.
“Join Councilmember Charles Allen for the 19th Annual “Brickie” Awards to celebrate the Ward 6 neighbors, organizations, groups, and businesses that go above and beyond to make Ward 6 a great place to call home.
Brickie Awards will be presented in five categories:
Neighbor
Community Organization
Business
Public Service
Civic Pride
The evening will include free delicious food and drinks, plus support from .Ward 6 businesses.
Leaf Collection in underway. Here’s a link to DPW’s real-time leaf collection tracker. https://dpw.dc.gov/leaf On Monday, December 1, leaf pick up will start in Section 6C.
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Hundreds of community members showed up for the lighting of the Capitol Hill Tree on Saturday night.
Members of the Capitol Hill Chorale performed, leading up to…
…the countdown and illumination. The annual lighting ceremony features the evergreen tree “Sonny” in the SW Quadrant of Eastern Market Metro Plaza, honoring the late George Didden III for his many contributions to the Capitol Hill community. Members of the Didden family were on hand to flip the switch.
ANC6B is holding a Special Call Meeting on Monday night to discuss the ANC’s protest of the application from Aloha for a license to sell medical cannabis at 539 8th Street, on Barracks Row. Recent changes in ABCA regulations could spell trouble for Aloha. See details below in The Week Ahead….
Here’s the first glimpse of the interior of the Taco Bell coming to Barracks Row at 411 8th Street, SE. A source tell CHC the plan is to open in December or early January.
Blackbird Salon at 8th and Virginia Avenue, SE (which occupies the ground floor corner space at far right in the photo) was probably happy to see the city’s treatment of the scruffy empty lot in front of their store. When the city cleaned up the pile of cut stones salvaged from the demolition of the CSX tunnel and stored underneath the freeway next to Garfield Park, they moved them to this corner. Over the past month, they became the basis for a landscaping project.
The Week Ahead…
Monday, November 24
ANC6A Community Outreach Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
ALOHA – Medical Cannabis Retailer – 539 8th Street SE. Second application for medical cannabis retailer license, including Delivery Endorsement. ANC6B has retained legal counsel (Kerry Verdi) to assist with protest.
For additional information, please contact Ellen Opper-Weiner, Resident Member Chair of ANC 6B Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Committee at eowlaw@aol.com and Commissioner Samuel Pastore Vice Chair of the ABC Committee at 6B05@anc.dc.gov
Capitol Hill Corner Would Also Like You to Know About:
Now through Sunday, December 7
4th Annual Better Together Small Business Gift Card Exchange
Native American Heritage Day Featuring Hoop Dancer Joseph Secody
Friday, November 28
National Museum of the American Indian: 11:30am – 4:00pm
Learn about the art and power of the Hoop Dance with performances by award-winning dancer Joseph Secody (Navajo). Performances begin at 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM.
At 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM join curator Anya Montiel (Mestiza/Tohono O’odham descent) for a closer look at the museum’s special installation Making a Statement, featuring custom Gucci gowns worn by actress Lily Gladstone (Siksikaitsitapi [Blackfeet]/Nimiipuu [Nez Perce]) at the 96th Academy Awards.
Eastern Market & Hill is Home Holiday Time Machine (21+ only)
6:00pm – 10:00pm
Eastern Market’s Holiday Time Machine promises to be a homegrown, historic antidote to the impersonal shopping experience of Black Friday: a festive gathering of local makers and artists, plus the introduction of delicious, social-media ready hot chocolate drink by Melt by Hippie Sippin.’ Republic Restoratives, a small batch, women-owned distillery will be at the event, offering samples of their award-winning spirits.
The event – co-hosted by local blog The Hill is Home – is a preview of the entire holiday experience. For only $30 at the door or $25 for early-birds who buy online, you can attend a holiday party you actually want to go to… Go here for more https://www.thehollydays.com/ and here for tickets https://bit.ly/4rfcftn
Labyrinth Games and Puzzles at 645 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, hosts their Annual Staff Cookie battle to benefit Toys for Tots. Staff members bake cookies (subsidized by management). Customers eat the cookies, vote for their favorites with donations and the cookie that earns the most wins. All of the donations go to Toys for Tots.
Sunday, November 30
11:00am – 1:00pm
Eastern Market.
The Betty the Yeti Welcome and Parade (all ages!)
Santa Claus – who will appear Saturdays from 11am to 1pm at the Market, and iconic cryptid Betty the Yeti – who will appear Sundays from 11am to 1pm.
Monday, December 1
Leaf Collection in underway. Here’s a link to DPW’s real-time leaf collection tracker. https://dpw.dc.gov/leaf (The search for your home address doesn’t appear to be working, but you can track which neighborhoods and undergoing leaf collections. Monday, December 1, leaf pick up will start in Section C.)
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Tonight: Tree Lighting on Eastern Market Metro Plaza & Schedule for Capitol Hill’s Holiday Events
By Larry Janezich
Posted November 22, 2025
The Capitol Hill Holiday Tree Await’s Tonight’s Illumination at 5:30pm on Eastern Market Metro Plaza
Saturday, September 29th – Small Business Saturday –Labyrinth Games and Puzzles at 645 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, hosts their Annual Staff Cookie battle to benefit Toys for Tots. (See below)
Schedule of Events:
Saturday, Nov 22
Capitol Hill BID’s 19th Annual Capitol Hill Tree Lighting.
5:30pm
Eastern Market Metro Park
“Men in Blue” will serve hot chocolate and doughnuts while local musical groups perform.
Entertainment: Joyous Voices, Washington Men’s Camerata, Capitol Hill Chorale, and Capitol Hill Arts Workshop’s Suzuki Strings
Masters of Ceremonies: Kojo Nnamdi and Tom Sherwood
All festivities will be held at the tree known as “Sonny” in the SW Quadrant of Eastern Market Metro Plaza (Corner of 7th and D St SE). Members of the Didden family will flip the switch to illuminate the tree that was planted to honor the late George Didden III for his many contributions to the Capitol Hill community.
Also, launching of 4th Annual Better Together Small Business Gift Card Exchange running Saturday, November 22 through Sunday, December 7, 2025.
Outside on 7th St. SE and NC Avenue SE. During the outdoor market from 10am until 3pm, shoppers can find the Jazz Café – green bistro tables and chairs at the north end of 7th Street, SE.
Eastern Market & Hill is Home Holiday Time Machine (21+ only)
6:00pm – 10:00pm
Eastern Market’s Holiday Time Machine promises to be a homegrown, historic antidote to the impersonal shopping experience of Black Friday: a festive gathering of local makers and artists, plus the introduction of delicious, social-media ready hot chocolate drink by Melt by Hippie Sippin.’ Republic Restoratives, a small batch, women-owned distillery will be at the event, offering samples of their award-winning spirits.
The event – co-hosted by local blog The Hill is Home – is a preview of the entire holiday experience. For only $30 at the door or $25 for early-birds who buy online, you can attend a holiday party you actually want to go to… Go here for more https://www.thehollydays.com/ and here for tickets https://bit.ly/4rfcftn
Saturday, September 29th Small Business Saturday
Labyrinth Games and Puzzles at 645 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, hosts their Annual Staff Cookie battle to benefit Toys for Tots.
10:00am
Members of the staff bake cookies (subsidized by management). Customers eat the cookies, vote for their favorites with donations and the cookie that earns the most wins. All of the donations go to Toys for Tots.
Sunday, November 30
11:00am – 1:00pm
Eastern Market.
The Betty the Yeti Welcome and Parade (all ages!) Santa Claus, who will appear Saturdays from 11am to 1pm at the Market, and iconic cryptid Betty the Yeti, who will appear Sundays from 11am to 1pm.
Monday, December 1
The Barrack’s Row and Eastern Market Main Street’s Sip and Shop.
5::00pm – 8:00pm – with wine tastings and exclusive in-store specials.
Co-hosted by the BID and Hill Havurah, the annyual event celebrates Hanukkah on the front steps of Reformation (212 East Capitol Street NE). This year’s celebration will take place on the second night of Hanukkah.
The 9-foot Menorah was gifted to the Capitol Hill Community in 2014 by the Capitol Hill Business Improvement District in honor of past Chairman of the Board and Community Leader, Paul L. Pascal, Esq. The “Men in Blue” will serve jelly donuts and hot cocoa.
Capitol Hill’s Small Business Gift Card Exchange Starts Saturday, November 22
by Larry Janezich
Posted November 21, 2025
A slew of Capitol Hill business organizations are sponsoring the 4th Annual Better Together Small Business Gift Card Exchange running Saturday, November 22 through Sunday, December 7, 2025. The event is one of two local promotion efforts to encourage community support for local small businesses this holiday season. This Saturday launches the holiday season with the lighting of the Capitol Hill Holiday Tree at Eastern Market Metro Park starting at 5:30pm.
Here’s how the exchange works: shop at any of the 31 participating business (see below) between 11/22 and 12/7 and receive a free gift card from another local favorite. Some terms apply and gifts are available while supplies last.
Participating Businesses include:
Eastern Market Pottery, Clothes Encounters, Relume, Photopia, La Casina, Music on the Hill,
Labyrinth Games & Puzzles, Hill’s Kitchen, East City Bookshop, Mr. Henry’s, Barrel, Little District Books, Awakening Bar & Grill, DCANTER Wine Boutique, Ambar, Frame of Mine, The Miracle Theatre, Bistro Cacao, Café Berlin, The Queen Vic, Granville Moore’s, The Pug, City Dogs, Jade Fitness, Hill East Burger, The DC Dentist, Ginkgo Gardens, Santa Rosa Taqueria, Good Stuff Eatery, We, the Pizza, Hawk & Dove.
Launched by Kathleen Donahue, owner of Labyrinth Games & Puzzles, during the post-COVID recovery, Better Together celebrates the strength and spirit of Capitol Hill’s small business community. Shopping local means investing in your community – supporting the people, schools, and organizations that make Capitol Hill thrive.
The second event is The Barrack’s Row and Eastern Market Main Street’s Sip and Shop onMonday, December 1 from 5pm to 8pm with wine tastings and exclusive in-store specials. DCanter will be providing different wines to each location so it will be a walking wine tasting.
Participating businesses include:
Clothes Encounters DC, Eastern Market Pottery, Refume, Capitol Hill Books, Groovy DC Cards and Gifts, Paris Bleu, Spin Time Records, East City Books, Labyrinth, Hills Kitchen, DCanter.
Update on Spotify’s Purchase of 440 New Jersey Avenue, SE
by Larry Janezich
Posted November 19, 2025
Last week, ANC6B discussed the Historic Preservation Application by the $137 billion Spotify Corporation (headquartered in Stockholm but operating in the US through one of its subsidiaries, Spotify USA). The company recently purchased the residence at 440 New Jersey Avenue, SE, along with the adjoining garage/carriage house at 435 1st St SE. The company plans to renovate the property.
According to ANC6B Planning and Zoning Committee Chair Vince Marino, “…the renovations themselves are minor and clearly designed to respect the property’s history, so no one on the ANC objects to them as such.”
Some members of the Committee, however, are concerned about Spotify’s claim that it does not need an exemption from zoning regulations for the residential property, because they fear Spotify will use the property for commercial purposes at the expense of the residential fabric of the neighborhood – as has happened with other residential properties on the block.
Marino says, “One may suspect that Spotify might succumb to the temptation to use the home as an employee hotel, or as a lobbying office. Spotify denies that it will. But that’s certainly what we seem to be seeing with many other Capitol Hill homes owned by corporations and advocacy groups. … We need to have a neighborhood-wide conversation about whether more areas should be upzoned for mixed use and/or higher density.
ANC6B went on to unanimously approve a proposal to designate ANC6B Commissioner Tyler Wolanin – in whose single member district 440 New Jersey is located – to attempt to reach a settlement agreement with Spotify.
Marino says, “We hope that such a settlement agreement would confirm that Spotify will indeed use 440 New Jersey Avenue SE as a residence rather than as a hotel or office. This would provide Spotify with the reassurance that we are not trying to evict them, and it would provide the neighbors with the reassurance that ANC6B is trying to contain the situation, one home at a time, while the BZA and the City Council work on a broader solution to the tight property market.”
Last Friday, CM Wendell Felder presided over the unveiling of Elmore-Friendship Court in the back alley of 1608 East Capitol Street, NE. The naming was necessary so a residential property located there can be completed and hooked up to utilities. The court was named to honor long time former residents of the neighborhood, Morgan Elmore and his wife – now deceased. Elmore operated a community-serving upholstery enterprise in the alley. The City Council passed legislation naming the alley last summer. ANC7D shepherded the legislation through the process and Felder brought it before the council. The alley in is the Single Member District of ANC7D Chair, Brian Alcorn. CM Felder is at left center above, and to his left is Linda Elmore, Morgan Elmore’s daughter. Brian Alcorn is at far left.
Here’s Mark Hudson, New Director of Congressional Cemetery. Hudson was named Executive Director on August 29th and began serving in his new role on September 8. Photo from Congressional Cemetery.
Last Wednesday night, Hudson, introduced himself to ANC6B during the commission’s hybrid virtual/in-person November meeting. Hudson came to the job after serving as Executive Director of Tudor Place Historic House and Garden in Georgetown. Also pictured, from lower left: Commissioner Sam Pastore, Hudson, Chair Edward Ryder, and Commissioner Vince Marino.
He spoke to the ANC of wrapping up the on-going planning for the five-to-ten year master plan for enhancing the cemetery’s ability to serve its primary function of an active cemetery to find ways to better care for and sustain the cemetery’s resources. He said he looks forward to being invited back before the commission to explain what those five-to-ten years will look like.
Hudson will host a meet and greet this coming Saturday, November22, in the Chapel at Congressional Cemetery, from 2:00pm to 3:30pm. For details, see below under “Capitol Hill Corner Would Also Like You to Know About:”
The Latest on St. Georges Boulangerie. Here’s the latest photo on the build out of St. Georges across from Eastern Market. Photo courtesy of a CHC reader.
The Week Ahead…
Monday, November 17
ANC6A Transportation & Public Space Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Discussion: 11th Street NE and E Street NE. Traffic Study Initiative 25-00614939 is part of 2026 Q1 prioritization. Speeding, pedestrian safety, and property damage continue to be an issue on 11th Street.
Constitution Avenue/13th Street NE/Tennessee Avenue NE. This area in front of Maury Elementary was the site of a recent installation of arts in the right of way which may be damaged by DC Water work that is also delaying the Vision Zero Hardening at this intersection. DDOT will provide written update and may have a representative attend in person.
Atlas Court NE. This alley between 11th and 12th Streets NE and H and Eye Streets NE is extremely wide and the site of speeding and truck traffic. A resident’s alley dwelling was recently damaged by truck traffic. ANC 6A requested DDOT traffic calming here over the summer.
ANC6B’s Public Safety Committee will hold a hybrid meeting at 6:30pm.
Physical Location: 700 Pennsylvania Ave SE, 2nd Floor – Conference Room #1 (Entrance Adjacent to Trader Joe’s)
For info on how to join the virtual meeting, go here: https://anc6b.org/
Government Announcements (Executive and Legislative Branch)
Commissioner Announcements
Consent Agenda
Report of Task Force on Pedestrian Safety
ABC Matters
Merchants Marina
Owners of 801 Maine Ave are requesting a time extension for their PUD (Zoning Case).
SMD Updates
Chairperson’s Report (Executive Session)
Tuesday, November 18
ANC6B 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.
1231 F Street NE. Zoning Adjustment Application. Special exception to construct a second story accessory dwelling unit to an existing, detached, accessory garage, in the rear of an existing, attached, two-story with basement, principal dwelling unit.
Background: In September 2025 ANC 6A EDZ voted unanimously to provide a letter of support for subject request, which was approved in the Consent Agenda during the October 2025 ANC 6A meeting. A letter of support was submitted to BZA dated October 26, 2025.
Update: Dr. Daniel Kocevski and/or Ms. Eleanor Garretson will testify as the owners and occupants of the adjacent property at 1233 F Street NE, located immediately to the east of 1231 F Street NE, which is the subject of the application for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
Their testimony will describe the adverse impacts that the proposed ADU would have on the use and enjoyment of their property and their property value. In addition, their testimony will describe how the proposed ADU is not in harmony with the purpose and intent of the zoning regulations and zoning maps.
The BZA Hearing is currently scheduled for December 10, 2025.
New Business
1378 C Street, NE. Zoning Adjustment Application for a Special Exception to construct front and side additions, to an existing, semi-detached, two-story, principal dwelling unit.
Thursday, November 20
ANC6A Alcohol Beverage & Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Capitol Hill Corner Would Also Like You to Know About:
November 14, 2025–January 4, 2026
Contemporary Art at the Folger Library featuring the work of Missy Dunaway.
Blending acrylic ink with research, Missy Dunaway investigates the connections between art, literature, history, and the natural world. Her ongoing project The Birds of Shakespeare visually catalogs every bird mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays and poems – at least 65 species – in consultation with an ornithologist and a scholar of early modern natural history. Dunaway’s detailed work reminds us that wildlife destruction is a cultural loss as well as an environmental one. For more, go here: https://www.folger.edu/whats-on/programs/contemporary-art-at-the-folger/
Thursday, November 20
Folger Salon with Virginia Burnett, Dorothy Kim, and Mary Beth Long
4:30pm
Great Hall, Folger Library
Free; no ticket required. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Discussion: Caribbean Shakespeares. Chaucer’s Black London. Martyrdom.
Learn about research happening at the Folger in real time. Each month, Folger Institute scholar and artist fellows will share their most exciting finds and thought-provoking challenges, followed by casual open conversation. Arrive early to purchase food and drink from the Folger’s new café, Quill & Crumb.
Saturday, November 22
Congressional Cemetery Event
Join Historic Congressional Cemetery’s Executive Director, Mark Hudson, for a fall afternoon of conversation and community. We’ll have hot cider, seasonal sweets, and light refreshments as you get to know the leader helping guide the future of this beloved historic landmark.
Time: 2:00–3:30 PM
Location: Historic Congressional Cemetery Chapel
This informal meet and greet is a chance to:
Hear about Mark’s vision for Congressional Cemetery
Ask questions about upcoming projects and events.
Share your ideas, hopes, and stories about the cemetery
Connect with fellow neighbors, members, and friends in a relaxed setting
Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time visitor, you’re invited to stop by, grab a cup of cider, and say hello.
Leaf Collection in underway. Here’s a link to DPW’s real-time leaf collection tracker. https://dpw.dc.gov/leaf (The search for your home address doesn’t appear to be working, but you can track which neighborhoods and undergoing leaf collections. This week, leaf pickup will start in Section B.)
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Last night, ANC6A heard the results of a survey conducted by ANC6A03 Commissioner Roberta Shapiro on neighbor’s use of the Sherwood Recreation Center. She told commissioners that she probably gets more email from her constituents on Sherwood than any other topic, save parking. Sherwood lies in Shapiro’s single member district.
Shapiro said, “I’ve done my share of complaining up and down the food chain about the situation there but decided that we really needed more data to back up the complaints.” So she conducted a survey and received 289 responses from nearby households comprising some 900 residents – 90% within a mile of Sherwood and 71% within a half mile. She told the ANC that these responses are from people who have an opportunity to use Sherwood, but about 2/3 had never used the inside facility.
The main answers given to the question of why not, included lack of awareness, lack of cleanliness and maintenance, and concerns about safety. The outdoor facilities – the playground, the tennis court, the basketball court, and the field running track were more broadly used.
The survey showed that more than half of respondents said they get no communication from the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) about the facilities. And reacting to information provided about Sherwood programs, only 14% of the respondents said that programming choices were good. Also, only 23% rated the equipment as good, and only 25% rated maintenance and cleanliness good.
Shapiro said that people have a fairly negative view of the facility, but there was “very strong interest in having expanded programming for little kids, preschoolers, and adult exercise programs.”
When asked what additional facilities people wanted, Shapiro said there was “a whole range of answers but 50% of respondents said they’d like to see a kid’s splash park like the one at Eastern Market Metro Park and 25% said they were interested in community gardens.”
There were 88 responses in which people took the time to write narrative answers to the question whether there was anything else they’d like to comment on or suggest. The number one topic was poor cleanliness and maintenance, number two was loitering, gambling, alcohol and drug consumption on the north side of the building. Those were followed by the need for more programming and expanded hours – people complained about being there with their kids on a Sunday and there’s no access to a bathroom facility. (CM Charles Allen has legislation pending before the City Council to expand hours at DC Recreation Facilities, requiring minimum weekend hours and increased weekday hours.) Also mentioned was the need for improvements in fixing equipment, ventilation, and cleaning.
Shapiro said, … ”there are other DPR facilities which are in really good shape and offer extensive programming and I don’t quite understand why Sherwood is the stepchild of the system.”
She referenced $4 million in the DC FY26 capital budget for improvements at Sherwood and said there needs to be a real effort to engage the community in terms of how those dollars get spent, and added that DPR says they are behind schedule but pledged community engagement.
With respect to nest steps, Shapiro said she had shared the survey with CM Charles Allen’s office and DPR. She said “we have written multiple times to Director Thennie Freeman (DPR) and we did not even get the courtesy of a response. So I think we just all need to keep making noise. I guess we could send another letter and copy the council and copy Director Freeman and copy DGS Director Hunter as well but I sort of feel like we are whistling into the wind.”
Commissioner and former ANC6A Chair Amber Gove suggested a next step could be drafting testimony for thecouncil’s performance oversight hearing. She added, “I would say that I very much recognize whenever I venture into NW that there is a huge difference in the quality of our facilities managed by DPR, and it would be wonderful if attention could be drawn to that … I don’t know if you recall but a couple years ago when this topic came up and in a letter to Director Freeman we actually did a comparison programming at all of the other DPR facilities … and Sherwood was at the bottom of the barrel in terms of … programming offered.”
Gove went on, “I think a conversation … identifying some of the discrepancies and showing them just what we’re seeing as commissioners, not just in our areas but in Ward 7 and 8, that the quality of facilities can be quite different than they are in the other parts of the city.
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CIVIC at 501 8th Street, SE on Barracks Row, will open this winter in the space formerly occupied by Ophelia’s Fish House.
CIVIC’s operator Rhonda Foxx (left) with beverage director Andra “AJ” Johnson.
“CIVIC” on Barracks Row – Rhonda Foxx’s new concept for a day time coffee bar/evening cocktail bar – is best described by its website: “A Salon for the City.” https://www.salonforthecity.com/
CIVIC’s genesis can be traced back to an organization Foxx founded in 2023 – “PERSIST,” a 70,000 member nonprofit women’s political coalition who aim is to connect power players, national leaders, influencers, organizers and everyday activists. Foxx says, “After 15 years in national Democratic politics and three in corporate America I realized that we have to have a place to get offline and bring together people who are like minded.” The concept behind CIVIC, she said, is Gloria Steinem’s “gathering circles” – who holds informal, in-person meetings in her apartment where activists, organizers and individuals gather to share ideas, and build community. Foxx was inspired by these events after being invited to host one at Steinem’s home.
Her take away from the gathering circle was the importance of building physical community and CIVIC pays tribute to that idea – “a place to gather, to create and make things happen.”
The website says as much:
“Where culture and community meet. From coffee to cocktails, CIVIC. is a neighborhood salon built for connection. Woman-owned and locally operated, we honor what came before while shaping what’s next – through conversation, curation, and craft.
We feature a rotating lineup of coffee roasters in residence, guest chefs, visual artists, and music curators. New voices, new work, more reasons to stop in.”
Foxx says, “You’ll see some really cool iconic DC women in this place, for example (DC muralist) Lisa Marie’s murals will go up on the back wall. And, you know, we’re a cocktail and coffee bar and that’s being powered by Andra “AJ” Johnson (beverage director and managing partner at Serenata at Union Market). And (DC artist) Maggie O’Neill will be one of the first artists that we showcase on our walls… if you remember Winnette McIntosh Ambrose (two-time Food Network Champion who ran Souk Bakery and Sweet Lobby), she’ll provide our pastry offerings.”
Foxx says CIVIC is still working on its restaurant alcohol beverage license and hopes have a soft opening before year’s end. Their day time café and beverage menu – featuring locally sourced Swing’s coffee – is here. https://www.salonforthecity.com/menu An evening menu will follow.
Spotify joins the corporations buying residential properties near the Capitol. Spotify has purchased the townhouse at 440 New Jersey Avenue, SE, near the Congressional Office Buildings. Company reps came before ANC6B’s Planning and Zoning Committee on Thursday night to support a Historic Preservation Application for work at the address. The applicants said they planned on fulfilling the city’s requirement that the townhouse have a full time resident and added that they are maintaining the current office space at 1100 15th Street, NW. A group of commissioners will meet with Spotify before the ANC meeting next Wednesday, November 12, to see if they are willing to provide a written agreement about use. Neighbors around 440 NJ may join the debate then.
The illegal use of residences by corporations for business activities is an ongoing controversy for neighborhoods close in to the Capitol. A concerted effort by ANCs 6A and 6C and efforts of CM Charles Allen appeared to be making traction with Brian Hanlon, Director of the DC Department of Buildings, until Mayor Bowser stepped in and ordered Hanlon to turn a blind eye to the violations. See here: https://bit.ly/4hX7kJx (Update)
Dos Toros Taqueria Capitol Hill at 215 Pennsylvania Ave SE, has been open for a couple of weeks now. Here’s their menu: https://www.dostoros.com/menu
Emergency vehicles respond to death at Eastern Market Metro on Wednesday night. Here’s a photo of the scene at Eastern Market Metro Plaza at circa 10:10pm on Wednesday night. At least 20 MPD, DC Transit, ambulances and other emergency vehicles surrounded Eastern Market Metro Plaza. Subsequently, DC Metro reported that an individual had apparently placed themselves in the path of an oncoming train.
Volunteer Musicians stepped up when Marine Band cancelled its annual concert to honor Marine Band legend John Phillips Sousa on the anniversary of his birthday at his grave site at Congressional Cemetery. The tradition’s rescue was organized by Capital City Symphony member Sarah Hanks (second from left), who reached out to colleagues and the community to help remember Sousa.
A crowd of some 50 community members turned out for the ceremony.
Organizers distributed flowers to lay on Sousa’s grave.
Here’s video of the band playing “Stars and Stripes Forever.”
The Week Ahead…
Monday, November 10
ANC6B Parks and Public Spaces Task Force will hold an IN PERSON ONLY meeting at 7:00pm at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, 2nd floor.
Agenda: TBA
Tuesday, November 11
ANC7D will hold its November virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Proposed Motion: ANC 7D send a letter to relevant District agencies recommending the re-designation of a presently unnamed alley as Graceland Court, NE.
Wednesday, November 12
ANC6B will hold its November hybrid meeting at 7:00pm. Note: This meeting date has been adjusted to avoid conflicts with holidays, religious days, or other events.
Meeting location will be 700 Pennsylvania Ave SE; First Floor (entry adjacent to Trader Joe’s).
For info on how to join the virtual meeting, go here: https://anc6b.org/
Among items on the draft agenda:
Consent Agenda
Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Items (TBA)
Transportation Committee Items (TBA)
Planning & Zoning Committee Items (TBA)
Public Safety Committee Items (TBA)
SE Library Task Force Items (TBA)
Public Parks and Recreation Spaces Task Force Items (TBA)
Eastern Market Community Advisory Committee Items (TBA)
Administrative Consent Items (If Any)
Community & Commission Announcements & Speak Out
Office of the Mayor (MOCR)
Councilmember Charles Allen’s Office
Metropolitan Police Department
Congressional Cemetery
Update on Items from Executive Committee Meeting
Adoption of Revised Standing Rules (Update/Announcement)
Reminder of Upcoming Meeting Dates
Presentations
11th Street Bridge Park Presentation
ANC 6B Input on Other Concerns
Testimony Regarding MPD & Immigration Enforcement
Testimony Regarding Youth Curfew
Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Committee Renewals
Hawk N’ Dove– 329 Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Renewal of Class “C” Tavern License with Cover Charge, Dancing, Entertainment, and Sidewalk Café Endorsements.
Dos Toros Taqueria – 215 Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Renewal of Class “C” Restaurant License with Sidewalk Café Endorsements.
Kaiju Ramen – 525 8th Street SE. Renewal of Class “C” Tavern License with Sidewalk Café and Summer Garden Endorsements.
Lola’s, LLC t/a Lola’s – 711 8th Street SE (ABRA-086141), Renewal of Class “C” Tavern License with Entertainment and Sidewalk Café Endorsements.
Hill East Burger – 1432 Pennsylvania Avenue SE. Renewal of Class “C” Tavern License with Entertainment and Sidewalk Café Endorsements.
Protests/Other Updates
Ambar – 523 8th Street SE. Ongoing negotiation regarding settlement agreement and protest hearing. Parties have requested continuance while discussions proceed.
ALOHA – Medical Cannabis Retailer (Second Application) – 539 8th Street SE (ABRA-129362). Second application for medical cannabis retailer license, including Delivery Endorsement. ANC6B has retained legal counsel (Kerry Verdi) to assist with protest. (Roll Call Hearing 11/03/25)
Continue Discussion for “Vision for Barracks Row”/Roundtable Planning.
Consideration of Letter Regarding Cannabis Licensees.
Planning and Zoning Committee
655 South Carolina Avenue SE; Zoning Adjustment Application.
440 New Jersey Avenue SE; Historic Preservation Application.
ANC6C will hold its November virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Committee Recommendations:
ANC 6A take no action on the renewals:
Class C Tavern license with for Brewpub, Entertainment and Summer Garden endorsements for Henceforth DC , 1335 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license for Providencia, 1321 Linden Court NE.
Class C Tavern license with Dancing, Entertainment and Summer Garden endorsements for Sushi Sato, 1245 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with an Entertainment endorsement for Solid State Books, 600 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with an Entertainment endorsement for The Little Grand, 808 7th Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with Entertainment and Summer Garden endorsements for Copycat Co., 1110 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with Cover Charge, Dancing and Entertainment endorsements for District Alley on H, 1378 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with Dancing and Summer Garden endorsements for Pie Shop, 1339 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with Entertainment and Summer Garden endorsements for Sol Mexican Grill, 1251 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with an Entertainment endorsement for Allure Lounge, 711 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with Cover Charge, Dancing and Entertainment endorsements for Ethio Vegan, 1362 H Street NE.
Class C Tavern license with Cover Charge, Entertainment and Summer Garden endorsements for Little Miss Whiskey’s Golden Dollar, 1104 H Street NE.
Economic Development and Zoning Committee:
Recommendation: ANC 6A send a letter to BZA in support of a special exception for rear yard and lot occupancy requirements at 1332 Corbin Place NE to construct a third story and a three-story with basement rear addition, to an existing, attached, two-story with basement, principal dwelling unit.
Recommendation: ANC 6A send a letter to BZA in support of a time extension for 1371-1375 H Street NE submitted by Salvation Arts, LLC, to extend for an additional year, the Board of Zoning Adjustment Order Number 20967, to construct a new, attached, six-story with roof deck, 30-unit, mixed use building.
Transportation and Public Space
Recommendation: ANC 6A send a letter to DDOT and WMATA asking that they coordinate to fill the gap in transit service that will be left by the early end of Streetcar service.
Recommendation: ANC 6A Send a letter to DDOT outlining ANC 6A’s requests for their update to the Strategic Bikeways Plan.
Standing Committee Reports
New Business
Suggested Motion: ANC 6A approve Lorena Gil as a member of Community Outreach (COC) Committee
Presentation: Results of survey about Sherwood Recreation Center
Single Member District reports
ANC6D Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:
Leaf Collection in underway. Here’s a link to DPW’s real-time leaf collection tracker. https://dpw.dc.gov/leaf (The search for your home address doesn’t appear to be working, but you can track which neighborhoods and undergoing leaf collections.)
CAPITOL HILL CORNER 