Tag Archives: news

April 6, 2025 · 10:49 pm

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted April 6, 2025

On Wednesday, April 3, 1st Street and the sidewalk in front of the Supreme Court were occupied by rival activists – supporters and opponents of Planned Parenthood.  The Court was scheduled to hear a case on funding for Planned Parenthood.  Here’s a photo of demonstrators supporting defunding Planned Parenthood. 

Those supporting Planned Parenthood, shown here, appeared to outnumber those opposed by about 6 to 1.  Later that day, AP reported that the Supreme Court appeared divided over whether states should be able to cut off Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood.

In June of 2022, CHC reported the closing for good of Congress Market at 421 East Capitol Street.  The move came with the retirement of the owner.  Now new life is being breathed back into the Market and a new owner told ANC6B Commissioner Jerry Sroufe that the store will reopen “soon.” 

Shelves are being stocked, and it’s possible the store will open before it gets its liquor license – the ABCA placard says the hearing on the license application isn’t scheduled until June 9.

Stormy skies provided a backdrop for a photo op of the Southeast Library the last week of March. 

Here’s another angle. 

Here’s Triple Candies’ extension of last month’s installation featuring The Raft of the Medusa in the exhibit space of the former Li’l Pub, at 655 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  CHC has unpacked it for your convenience: 

Moechella (lower left) is a DC concert series inspired by the Cochella Festival, which according to Wiki, is an annual music and arts festival held in Indio, California, in the Colorado Desert’s Coachella Valley.  The event features musical artists from many genres of music, including rock, pop, indie, hip hop and electronic dance music, as well as art installations and sculptures.

We. Construct. Marvels. Between. Monuments.  (upper right) “An exhibition series held at the Portland Art Museum (2017 – 2019) encouraging audiences to think critically about how museums have traditionally granted access to art and knowledge, and what the future of the institution could look like.”  Libby Werbel

La beauté est dans la rue.  (lower right) “Beauty is in the Street” is a slogan from France, May of 1968.  The poster depicts a young woman throwing a paving stone.  Wiki. 

The Week Ahead.

Highlights:

  • Monday – FreeDC volunteers lobby Congress on passage of bill to allow DC government funding for the rest of the fiscal year.  (See “Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:” below.) 
  • Tuesday – CM Charles Allen is scheduled to brief ANC6B on the upcoming FY Budget.
  • Thursday – CM Charles Allen is scheduled to brief ANC6A on the upcoming FY Budget.

Monday, April 7

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

The meeting will be held on the second floor of 700 Pennsylvania Ave., SE.  Entrance is next door to Trader Joe’s.

Among items on the draft agenda:

Renovation Update, Including Washington Gas Pipe Relocation.

Interim Library Facility.

  • Flyer distribution.
  • Follow-up on Elias Benda meeting.
  • Arthur Capper days & hours.

Upcoming budget hearing. 

Tuesday, April 8

ANC6B will hold a hybrid meeting at 7:00pm.

The meeting location will be at 700 Pennsylvania Ave SE; First Floor (entry adjacent to Trader Joe’s).

To join the hybrid meeting, go here: https://anc6b.org/

Among items on the draft agenda:

Letter from ANC 6B urging DC action on EMCAC’s call for bollards at Eastern Market.

Community & Commission Announcements & Speak Out.

  • Office of the Mayor.
  • Metropolitan Police Department.

Presentations

  • Open Streets Capitol Hill 2025.
  • Ward 6 Councilmember Charles Allen: Update on Upcoming Fiscal Year Budget.

ANC 6B Input on Other Concerns.

  • Referral to Committees of Need to Maintain Diversity of Commercial Properties on Barracks Row.
  • World Pride: How Can ANC 6B Support.

Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Committee.

  • Bombay Street Food 2, 524 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Aatish On The Hill, 609 Pennsylvania Ave SE: Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Torai Grill & Sushi, 751 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class D Restaurant.
  • Young Chow Asian Restaurant, 312 Pennsylvania Ave SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • The Duck & The Peach/The Wells/La Collina, 300 7th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • I Egg You, 517 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Chiko, 423 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant; Protest Hearing Deadline.
  • Extra Fancy, 721 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Little Pearl, 921 Pennsylvania Ave SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Pineapple and Pearls, 715 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Rose’s Luxury, 717 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Paraiso, 1101 Pennsylvania Ave SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Bullfeathers, 410 1st Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Sanpan Thai Cuisine, 653 Pennsylvania Ave SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.
  • Kenneth H Nash Post 8 t/a Kenneth H Nash Post 8 American Legion, 224 D Street SE; Renewal of Class C Club.
  • Trattoria Alberto, 504 8th Street SE; Renewal of Class C Restaurant.

Transportation Committee.

  • Watkins Alley: Support Efforts by Residents of Watkins Alley for Bollards or Other Safety Measures to Protect Pedestrians in the Alley.
  • Item From March Full Meeting: letter to DDOT, in collaboration with 6A, regarding Lincoln Park.

Letter Related to Rumsey Pool Update.

ANC 7D will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Among items on the draft agenda:

Election of Vice Chair of the Commission. 

Community Presentation.

Mars Eagleston, Facility Planning and Design, DC Public Schools.

  • Update on Kenilworth School Swing Space Construction.
  • Proposed Motion:  ANC 7D to send a letter to DCPS concerning evening, Sunday and holiday work permits for the project.  

DC Government Updates.

  • Eric Mullins, Mayor’s Office of Community Relations & Services (MOCRS) Ward 7 Representative.
  • Lawrence Davin, Office of Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder.
  • MPD Districts Updates (1st, 5th, 6th Districts invited).

Commissioner Single Member District Reports.

Community Comments.

Wednesday, April 9

AN6C will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  https://anc6c.org/hot-topics/

Among items on the draft agenda: 

Announcements.

  • Commissioner announcements.
  • DC agency informational announcements.

Other community announcements.

  • RiverSmart Homes, Skye Webster, DOEE.

Plenary agenda.

  • Union Pub, Ethiopic Restaurant, Cane, Boiling Crab, Indigo, The 116 Club,

application renewals  

  • Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee (Mark Eckenwiler, Chair)

313 2nd Street NE.  Historic Preservation Application of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church for concept approval, renovation and expansion of carriage house, razing two structures, landscaping.

Illegal construction, 1165 3rd Street, NE.

Thursday, April 10

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

Among items on the draft agenda: 

Community Presentations DC Budget and other Ward 6 Topics of Interest

Councilmember Charles Allen.

Consent Agenda.

Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Committee.

  • Recommendation: ANC 6A take no action on the renewal application of a Class C restaurant license with entertainment and summer garden endorsements at Granville Moore’s, 1238 H Street, NE .
  • Recommendation: ANC 6A take no action on the application for a new Class C Restaurant license with extended holiday hours, carry out and delivery endorsements at Tapori, 600 H Street, NE.  

Community Outreach.

  • Recommendation: ANC 6A approve the revisions to the ANC’s Grant Application form, including ANC 6A coversheet, project report form, and closeout form to conform with the OANC guidelines for applications.

Economic Development and Zoning (EDZ)

  • Recommendation: ANC 6A send a letter to BZA to support special exceptions to combine five lots (2 facing H Street NE, 3 facing alley) and convert to a retail and eating and drinking establishment use an existing, semi-detached, mixed use at 355-1359 H Street, NE.
  • Recommendation: ANC 6A send a letter to BZA to support a special exception to construct a second story addition to a detached garage, in the rear of an existing, attached, two-story plus cellar, principal dwelling unit in the RF-1 zone at 917 Constitution Avenue.

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:

Monday, April 7

FreeDC Sponsored Event:  9:30am – 3:30pm. 

Meet at the Spirit of Justice Park (South side of Rayburn House Office Building) at South Capitol and C Streets, SE.    

Teams will visit offices of Members of the US House of Representatives to urge passage of the DC Local Funds Act being held at the Speaker’s Desk since March 18.  The Bill has passed the Senate and is awaiting action by the House.  The Bill would authorize DC to spend its ownrevenues for the rest of the fiscal year.  It includes funding for schools, first responders, Metro, buses, etc. 

Volunteers are requested to register so FreeDC will know how many are coming.  Go here:  https://freedcproject.org/event-list/recess-at-the-capitol

Friday, April 11

Hill Center Event: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm $20.00

Global Sounds on the Hill featuring Ethiopian Funk with Afro-Zen Allstars.  “Their music exists at the place where African musical tradition connects with Jazz & Jam.”

For more info, go here:  https://bit.ly/3RCJuGo

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April 6, 2025 · 11:15 am

Photo Essay: Hands Off Rally – National Mall

by Larry Janezich

Posted April 6, 2025

An Anti-Trump “Hands Off” rallies occurred in all 50 states on Saturday.  The “Hands Off” rally on the National Mall was centered at the Sylvan Theater but much of the Mall and the grounds of the Washington Monument was occupied by demonstrators.  At 2:00pm the rally was scheduled to end and the crowd had begun to thin a little.  Organizers had said it might go a bit longer. 

There were streams of departing participants lining up to board the Metro at the Smithsonian stop and on Independence Avenue hundreds of people were headed for the Metro.  But there was a sea of people still on the grounds of the Washington Monument and speakers were still addressing the crowd. 

The crowd in front of the Sylvan Theater was so dense that organizers were stationed to direct people pressing toward the stage that it was too crowded and asked people who were approaching the stage to go back the way they came and climb the hill toward the Monument for a view of the theater.    

From the base of the Washington Monument, one could see that the crowd extended toward the Capitol Building.

The crowd was multi-generational and the mood was friendly as people seemed reassured by the willingness of such a large number of protesters to turn out – a crowd much larger than anticipated by organizers.  Originally, the number of estimated attendees was 20,000 – projected from the number of responses to organizers’ request that participants register.  Later, organizers said the number of attendees was five times the expected number.  It was apparent from the large numbers of people still on the Mall at 2:00pm that the expected number had been vastly exceeded. 

Some wore costumes – including Abe Lincoln and the Statue of Liberty – or carried protest signs and banners and flew the United States flag as a distress signal. 

There were individuals, couples, families, and groups of friends.  There were a few people with dogs and a few couples with infants in baby carriages.  There were small individual demonstrations everywhere throughout the crowd. Here’s some video of one of them.

Here’s a list of sponsoring organizations.  https://handsoff2025.com/about-1

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April 3, 2025 · 11:21 am

Crime Report:  MPD Commander Colin Hall Reports on District 1

MPD 1st District’s Community Advisory Committee met Tuesday night.

MPD’s First District. Blue dots locate the U.S. Capitol and RFK Stadium, respectively.

Crime Report:  MPD Commander Colin Hall Reports on District 1

by Larry Janezich

Posted April 3, 2025

MPD 1st District Commander Colin Hall delivered the monthly crime report to the 1st District’s Community Advisory Committee Tuesday night: 

He cited several high profile arrests MPD made in the past few weeks.

  • The 2023 homicide at the Cru Nightclub in 1300 block of H Street, NE, was closed with two arrests.
  • The ongoing investigation of the flagrant shooting last October at 1900 One-half Street, SW near the Watermark Buzzard Point apartments resulted in a recent arrest.  The incident involved adults and juveniles and the expenditure of nearly 100 rounds.  Hall said other suspects are being sought.  A stray bullet from this incident wounded a pedestrian on Potomac Avenue, SE. 
  • A second arrest was made in Eastern High School shooting of a student last November, closing out the case.

He also reported :

  • We’re seeing a 31% decrease in violent crime in the first quarter across the city and a 35% decrease in violent crime in the 1st District – that’s over the 15% drop ending 2024. 
  • We continue pushing down robberies – there was a 38% decline in the first quarter in the 1st District, on top of a 47% drop ending 2024.
  • We had 20 burglaries in the 1st District so far this year – that’s plus 3 over last year. We follow up after every burglary with our outreach team to talk to businesses about cameras and alarms.
  • We shut down a crew linked to 21 burglaries throughout the city. 
  • Theft from autos is down but increasing with the warm weather. 
  • We are still seeing thefts of unattended vehicles.  That was a problem in the cold but we’re still seeing it in warm weather.  We urge using wheel locks and air tags. 
  • We’re seeing tire thefts throughout the city and urge residents to be alert and call MPD to report suspicious activity.

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March 13, 2025 · 10:41 pm

CHUCK GREGORY (1976-2025)

CHUCK GREGORY (1976-2025)

Chuck Gregory, a native Washingtonian, died in San Francisco on February 22 after a long struggle with cancer. He was 49. The son of Janice and Neal Gregory,  Chuck was born at Georgetown Hospital on January 8, 1976, and grew up on Capitol Hill. His formal name was Chellis O’Neal Gregory III, but he was always known as Chuck.

A service of remembrance and a celebration of his life will be held at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church at 1:30 pm on Sunday, March 30.

Chuck was an acolyte at St. Mark’s, a member of the Boy Scouts and a star soccer player for his Soccer on the Hill championship team. A lifelong interest in public policy and politics began during the summers when he was a page for the U.S. House of Representatives. He attended Peabody and John Easton Public Schools, St. Anselm’s Abbey School, and graduated from Edmond Burke High School.

He received a degree in communications and film from Tulane University, where he was a member of SAE fraternity. He worked as a desk editor in the Washington Bureau of ABC Television News, later joining the staff of the Vancouver International Film Festival in Canada, working in promotion and development. He met Akiko Kano – who became his wife – in Vancouver while they were both teaching English as a foreign language. 

He earned a master’s degree in international relations at the University of British Columbia and was a development officer for UBC’s Sauder School of Business. Ten years ago, he moved to San Francisco as a development officer for Sutter Health, which operates 24 hospitals and over 200 clinics in Northern California.

Chuck had a dry wit and was always smiling. His fellow students and coworkers delighted in his storytelling talents. He had an uncanny ability to adopt the accents and mannerisms as he related tales from a wide variety of characters.  He could imitate Louisiana Cajuns, Southerners, Texans, New Jersey mafia, Boston Irish and variety of other groups with comic accuracy.

In addition to his parents, Neal and Janice Gregory, Chuck is survived by his wife Akiko Kano and their 11-year-old daughter Sara Gregory of San Francisco; and two sisters, Jennifer Cross of Santa Cruz, CA, and Kate Stark of Scotts Valley, CA.

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March 13, 2025 · 6:55 pm

City Scales Back Rumsey Aquatic Center Plan

More than 100 residents turned out for Wednesday night’s community meeting on the Rumsey Renovation plans which was held in the North Hall of Eastern Market.

City Scales Back Rumsey Aquatic Center Plan

by Larry Janezich

Posted March 13, 2025

Thursday night, DPR and DGS presented design options for renovation of the Rumsey Aquatic Center which were substantially different from the more ambitious plans of CM Charles Allen, who secured additional funding for the project based on those plans. 

The boost in $15 million in funds for the Rumsey renovation was intended to support a new second story with community amenities like a senior center with a tech lounge, a business incubator space, and an indoor fitness center.  These were in addition to the DPR’s initial budget ($20 million) to expand and renovate the swimming pool which would occupy the first floor of the new building.

That’s not what the designers brought back to the community.

Instead, developers presented to the community three slightly different proposals, all of them without a build-out on the second floor, as well as a host of reasons why the original vision could not be realized. In addition to what they characterized as a limited overall budget of $35 million, the designers cited the cost of LEED/net zero certification as a significant constraint. 

Here’s Allen’s reaction: 

“Two years ago, I asked DPR and DGS leaders what it would cost to build a second floor to expand services and programs while modernizing Rumsey pool. They gave me an exact number, and I found that exact money – that’s the budget we have.  It’s clear from tonight’s meeting there’s not enough space on one floor to meet the needs of the community here, and I’m frustrated how quickly they’re trying to walk away from the fully funded second floor. I will work to get them back on track and believe we will find a solution to deliver the generational project everyone wants.”

ANC6B Commissioner Jerry Sroufe, in whose single member district the Rumsey Center falls, said “if you only have three options and no second story that’s a bitter pill to swallow.  I didn’t think they were very responsive to the concerns raised and I don’t think that the things they said they couldn’t do because of various restrictions are true.  I am sure they could do things differently if they wanted to – exceptions can be made and they didn’t make any.  I didn’t like any of the options in particular.  It seems they wanted one story.” 

Two polls taken during the meeting to which there were 66 respondents showed a clear preference for bigger and better pool space and fewer amenities.  Regarding the possible amenities squeezed into the first floor – a hot tub, a yoga studio, and a fitness studio – a 40% plurality chose “none of the above.” 

The three options can be viewed here:  https://dgs.dc.gov/page/rumsey-aquatic-center    

Go to “March 12 Community Presentation.”

Roy Philips, a neighbor and frequent user of Rumsey Pool who attended last night’s meeting, said that “the presenters didn’t provide options that capture what the community is looking for.  In building options they have lots of constraints ….  Due to the constraints they said all they can do is build a new structure that is roughly the size and footprint as the current building. They can make the pool about 12 feet wider to accommodate 2 more swimming lanes. There were no options to extend the building into the plaza or with a second floor…It seems like they are focused on all the impediments rather than a vision of what the community really wants.”

Here’s the sequence of events for the next steps:

TBD Community Meeting 3 – Design Update.

TBD Community Meeting Final Design.

(Permitting Phase)

TBD Community Meeting Construction Kick off.

TBD Construction Updates

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March 3, 2025 · 4:53 pm

Free DC Mobilizes to Protect DC Home Rule

Free DC Mobilizes to Protect DC Home Rule

by Larry Janezich

Posted March 3, 2025

Here’s the scene at As You Are on Sunday afternoon, as attendees listen to Free DC organizer Alex Dodds.

Here’s a detail of Dodds rallying the crowd.

A Free DC volunteer makes signs for the campaign.

Sunday afternoon, Free DC held its first Ward 6 meeting on Barracks Row’s at As You Are.  Event organizer Alex Dodds said that the purpose of the gathering to kick off the Home Rule effort was a and introduction and a “celebration with our Ward Six team.” More than a hundred supporters crowded into the second story of As You Are to express solidarity, interact, and to cheer approval as they listened to Dodds assert DC’s right to self-determination.     

Asked for comment, Dodds said “Free DC is a new campaign to protect home rule and win dignity for people in communities of the District. Free DC is organizing in all eight wards, mobilizing people to protect ourselves from this administration and this congress.” The movement, she said, “started two years ago during the overturning of the Revised Criminal Code – Congress disapproved of a DC law for the first time in over 30 years, and no matter how you felt about that legislation, we felt very strongly that it was the right and responsibility of the people of the DC to decide the laws here.  So a lot of the organizers who are involved now first started organizing two years ago when that happened. “

As for next steps, Dodds said, “For anyone interested in joining our effort you can come to one of our campaign organizing meetings – we provide an overview of our strategy and how to get involved.  They happen every other week alternating in person and on line.”  The next Ward Six meeting is Tuesday, March 11th from 6:00pm – 8:00pm in North East Library.    

Free DC is a special non-profit project of Community Change, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, and Community Change Action, a 501(c)(4) tax-exempt organization.  It’s co-founders are Alex Dodds, founder and lead strategist for the public relations and campaign firm Worthy Studio; Nee Nee Taylor, Executive Director of Harriet’s Wildest Dreams;  Kelsey Adams, co- director of DC Vote; and Keya Chattergee, member, Evergreen Advisory and Governing Boards and Executive Director of US Climate Action Network.

For more info, go here:  https://freedcproject.org/about

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February 10, 2025 · 2:35 pm

Union Kitchen – Barracks Row – Opens Thursday

Union Kitchen at 430 8th Street, SE

Union Kitchen Distribution and Construction Manager Keith Chapman (left) and Union Kitchen Director for Union Markets, Matt Behringer.

Union Kitchen – Barracks Row – Opens Thursday

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 10, 2025

The long-awaited opening of Union Kitchen at 430 8th Street, SE, is scheduled for 7:30am on Thursday, February 13, according to Union Kitchen Store Director Matt Behringer who adds, “The first 100 customers will receive a free freshly baked cookie.” 

The Union kitchen concept is modeled on the small NYC bodega – a combination café and grocery story.  It will open daily from 7:30am until 9:00pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  The store will also offer specialty grocery items including beer, wine, and sake as well as housewares.  An application for a sidewalk café – which would open in the spring – is in the works.

The opening will also feature several vendors whose products – many of them local – are found on Union Kitchen shelves.  They will be there to interact and to introduce their brands to the neighborhood. 

Reflecting store’s strong neighborhood orientation, Behringer says the Order Here counter will feature a QR Code soliciting photos of pets and neighborhood life for posting in a gallery on Union Kitchen’s wall.  Wiki says of the NYC bodegas, “they are renowned for their convivial culture and colorful character.” 

Union Kitchen is a local chain of bodegas and also a “food business accelerator,” which supports entrepreneurs who want to get into the hospitality business.  It’s headquartered at 1369 New York Avenue, (see here:  https://www.unionkitchen.com/  ).  And here:  https://www.instagram.com/unionkitchendc/?hl=en

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February 9, 2025 · 11:37 pm

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from Last Week

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from Last Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 9, 2025

Progress report on renovation of SE Library. Photos: DCPL

Structural steel has been added to the new underground addition. 

Electrical rough-ins are underway on the main floor.  Note the skylight space in the ceiling.

Here’s the almost the same view of the design plan rendering illustrating the completed new main level. Note the center skylight which will illuminate the floors below.

MPD 1D CAC Update:  Last Tuesday night, the MPD First District Citizens Advisory Council (CAC) held its monthly virtual meeting featuring MPD 1D Commander Colin Hall (far left), Captain Adam Crist, and Captain Paul Hrebenak.  The officials gave an update on crime in the First District.  Some of the highlights:

  • Crime stats continue to decline in the First District and across the city. 
  • Recent items which have been the target of robberies include Canada Goose and Moose Knuckle Coats.
  • MPD D1 has worked with ABCA to shut down two illegal cannabis shops on PA Avenue, SE, one on the 1100 block and one on the 1200 block.  Two months ago MPD 1D officers assisted in the shuttering of two illegal cannabis shops on H Street.   
  • MPD has made progress on cleaning up the corner of 8th and H Street, NE.
  • The area around 15th and Independence SE has been quiet after MPD made several arrests and took some violent people off the streets.
  • Commander Hall will lead a contingent of MPD 1D officials participating in the Polar Plunge in Yards Park on Saturday, February 22.  (See below for additional info.)

ABCA Shuts down Illegal Weed Shop on PA Ave, SE.  Here’s a photo of Friends Smoke Shop at 1223 PA Avenue, SE, one of the two illegal cannabis outlets closed recently by the Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration.   (At Friends Smoke Shop, Investigators recovered 1.4 lbs. of marijuana, 42 grams of THC vape cartridges, and 92 grams of mushroom infused products.)  The other illegal weed shop on PA Avenue, SE which was closed recently is on the 1100 block.  ABCA also closed two illegal shops on H Street SE last month.

Former Oehme va Sweden Building Sold.  The grand old building on Barracks Row at 536 8th Street, SE, has been sold.  The recent home of Oehme, van Sweden Landscape Architects and formerly a City Bank Building went up for sale in January of last year.  Reportedly, the architectural firm found maintenance of the 1908 building too burdensome.   No word on the new owner, but it’s likely the building will see continued service as office or commercial space.  

The Week Ahead…

Tuesday, February 11

ANC6B will hold a hybrid meeting at 7:00pm.

Meeting location will be 700 Pennsylvania Ave SE; First Floor (entry adjacent to Trader Joe’s).

Among items on the Consent Agenda

  • 321 D Street, SE.  Motion to support Zoning Adjustment Application for exceptions for rear addition. 
  • 4-5 Library Court, SE.  Motion to Defer Historic Preservation Application to add second story additions to two existing alley dwellings. 
  • Amendments to Standing Rules and Bylaws.
  • Appointment of Resident Members and Alternates to all Committees & Task Forces.
  • Appointment of Committee and Taskforce Chairs.

Community & Commission Announcements and Speak Out

External Updates:

  • MOCRS Representative.
  • Representative from Councilmember Charles Allen’s Office.
  • Metropolitan Police Department.

ANC 6B Input on Other Items of Concern

Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Committee

  • 7th Street Love (Acqua al 2), 212 7th Street. – Motion to take no position on Restaurant Liquor License Application with Entertainment and Dancing Endorsement, pending receipt of a signed Settlement Agreement. 

ANC6B Administrative Matters.

ANC7D will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm (new start time)

Among items on the draft agenda:

Community Presentations

  • Chris Dyer, DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) Summer camp registration & spring programming

DC Government Updates

  • Eric Mullins, Mayor’s Office of Community Relations & Services (MOCRS)
  • Ward 7 Representative • Francis Campbell, Office of Ward 7 Councilmember Wendell Felder

Commissioner Single Member District Reports 

Suggested Motion: ANC 7D to request FY2026 funding for DDOT to conduct a Kenilworth-focused road safety/design audit.   

Suggested Motion:   ANC 7D to send a letter to DC Government stakeholder agencies to request a feasibility study to install CCTV on I-295 pedestrian bridges to improve bridge user safety.

Suggested Motion: Recommend ANC 7D approve a grant in the amount of $1,500 to DCwise1 for food handling/safety training.

Public Safety Committee Report

Discussion of setting an ANC 7D Special Meeting between February 12 and April 12 for the purpose of a 7D01 Election.

Suggested Motion:  ANC 7D to post information requesting contracting occasional administrative support for the Commission.

Wednesday, February 12

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

Among items on the draft agenda: 

Announcements

  • Commissioner announcements.
  • DC agency informational announcements.
  • Other community announcements—D.C. Witness.

Consent calendar

  • Tapori Restaurant, 600 H Street NE, request for a stipulated license.

 Plenary agenda

  • 300 I Street NE—Alley naming, Jenay Doganay.
  • Revive Stanton Park—Jay Adelstein.
  • Safety improvements, 6th and D Streets ,NE. Notice of Intent I-25-06.
  • Oversight testimony on defective ticket practices in DPW—Mark Eckenwiler.

Motion to support Capitol Hill Classic, May 18.

Thursday, February 13

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

Among items on the draft agenda:

Consent Agenda

  • Recommendation: ANC6A protest the license application of Dumpling Hot Pot Beyond, unless a Settlement Agreement is reached between the ANC and the license applicant prior to the protest deadline.
  • Recommendation: ANC6A protest the license application of Tigo’s unless a Settlement Agreement is reached between the ANC and the license applicant prior to the protest deadline.
  • Recommendation: ANC6A protest the license application of Dreamy DC unless a Settlement Agreement is reached between the ANC and the license applicant prior to the protest deadline and ABCA confirms applicant is within allowed distance from another licensed establishment.
  • Recommendation:  ANC6A send a letter to the Chair of the City Council, with copies to all members of the Council and the Mayor, requesting the city council to pass legislation creating a provision for a moratorium zone for cannabis licenses equivalent to the provision for a moratorium zone for alcohol licenses. 
  • Recommendation: ANC6A send a letter to DDOT in support of the planned street closures for the Capitol Hill Classic.
  • Recommendation:  ANC6A send a letter to DDOT requesting all-way stops and other traffic calming along Tennessee Ave. from D/14th/E Streets.
  • Recommendation: ANC6A send a letter to DDOT requesting they extend the protected bike lane project at 14th and H Streets south through Maryland Ave and also examine ways to prioritize the B2 bus in this area.
  • Recommendation: ANC6A send a letter to DDOT requesting they expand the FY25Q2 prioritization of 11th and F Street NE to re-examine traffic calming along 11th Street NE from Florida Ave to East Capitol.
  • Recommendation: ANC6A send a letter to DDOT in support of the Maury color the curb project (and that the art have some connection to the color the curb from Hill Family Biking).
  • Recommendation: ANC6A send a letter to DDOT suggesting and requesting safety improvements to the 16th Street/C Street/North Carolina Ave NE corridor.
  • Recommendation: ANC6A send a letter to DDOT requesting they expand the FY25Q2 prioritization of 14th and Ames Place NE to calm traffic along 14th Street from North Carolina Ave to East Capitol. 

Recommendation: (Mini-Mall Planned for H 1355-1359 H Street, NE) ANC6A send a letter of support for the Zoning Adjustment Application requesting Special Exceptions to convert to a retail and eating and drinking establishment and use an existing, semi-detached, mixed use building in the NMU-4/HA and MU-4 zones.

Recommendation: ANC6A to send a letter of support for a Zoning Adjustment Application requesting Special Exceptions from requirement to permit construction of a two-story plus cellar rear addition, to an existing, attached, two-story with cellar, principal dwelling unit in the RF-1 zone.

Recommendation: ANC6A to send a letter of support to the DOB and the BZA requesting a  Time Extension, asking them to expedite requests associated with bringing the facility at 1022 Maryland Avenue NE into compliance with updated zoning regulations, given Sasha Bruce Youthwork’s commitment to working with the community liaison committee on any ongoing plans related to the building, particularly any external work. 

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:

Hill Center Event – Tuesday, February 11.  7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Our City. Our Music. Our Writers – In-person

$10.00

Two eminent, essential local writers on jazz are featured in the February 11 session of the series.

Georgetown University Professor Maurice Jackson has just published Rhythms of Resistance and Resilience: How Black Washingtonians Used Music and Sports in the Fight for Equality.  He will also talk about DC Jazz: Stories of Jazz Music in Washington, DC., which he co-edited.

NEA Jazz Master Willard Jenkins will talk about Ain’t But a Few of Us. Black Music Writers Tell Their Story, noted by reviewers as superb, overdue, and vital reading for any jazz fan. Though performers and innovators in this genre are overwhelmingly African American, Black music writers and editors are woefully underrepresented.

Register and get tickets here:  https://bit.ly/4gAXjiJ

Polar Bear Plunge.  Saturday, February 22 – Yards Park.  12:00pm – 3:00pm. 

The Polar Plunge is a way for the community to come out and show their support for the athletes of Special Olympics DC.  There will be an above-ground swimming pool erected at the Yards Park, and participants will “take the plunge.”

For more info and to register to participate, go here:  https://specialolympicsdc.org/events/polar-plunge/

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February 8, 2025 · 12:45 pm

Acqua al 2 Update

ANC6B Committee on Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration met last Tuesday to consider a Restaurant License for Acqua al 2.

Acqua al 2 Update

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 8, 2025

Restaurateur Ari Gejdenson is returning to Eastern Market to reopen Acqua al 2 (AA2).  The Italian menu will be the same, but the upstairs speakeasy – Jack Black’s – is gone.  His aim is to convert the speakeasy space to a dining and dancing event space for which Gejdenson envisions hosts selling tickets (fund raising tickets?) – which would technically meet ABCA criteria for a cover charge.  Gejdenson also wants to enclose the front sidewalk patio and extend dancing to that area with hours outside the same as those inside, 2am Sunday – Thursday and 3am Friday and Saturday.  He would also add carryout and delivery service.

Last Tuesday night, ANC6B’s alcohol licensing committee met to discuss the liquor license application with the request for the expanded operation.  Much of the discussion involved concerns of across-the-alley neighbors who have had ongoing issues with the restaurants facing 7th Street on the block.

Gejedenson had generally been a good neighbor during the first incarnation of AA2.  After it closed, it was succeeded by Harvest Tide, whom the neighbors found unresponsive to their concerns about trash, rodents, and delivery trucks blocking the alley and preventing access to their garages. 

Responding to neighbor complaints, ANC6B negotiated a new and more stringent Settlement Agreement with Harvest Tide.  (A Settlement Agreement is the mechanism agreed to between the ANC and the restaurant which governs its operations – trash, rodents, parking, hours, etc.) Neighbors say that Harvest Tide continued to be a bad neighbor despite the new Settlement Agreement. Gejdenson said that was largely because the city was lax in enforcing the Agreement.

The (ABCA Committee – per comment below) want Gejdenson to sign the same agreement they had with Harvest Tide.  Gejdenson is resisting signing the more stringent agreement saying he is unwilling to “assume additional risk” by signing commitments which could allow neighbors to put on him things that should be the city’s responsibility. 

After two contentious hours of discussion, the committee agreed to designate temporary committee chair Commissioner Anna Krebs and Commissioner Jerry Sroufe to meet with Gejdenson and his attorney in hopes of reaching an agreement on a Settlement Agreement before the full ANC meets on next Tuesday.  If not, the parties can request a two week extension to negotiate.  Gejdenson hopes to open within the next 30 to 90 days. 

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February 2, 2025 · 9:53 pm

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 2, 2025

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted February 2, 2025

RFK and the Commanders:  The exterior demolition of RFK is underway.  The Friends of Kingman Park RFK Taskforce will hold an in-person meeting on Tuesday, February 4, at St. Benedict’s Church to solicit community input on RFK in anticipation of a February 20 community meeting hosted by Friends of Kingman Park featuring representatives from the Washington Commanders.  The event is billed as an opportunity to meet and learn about proposed plans for RFK.  Since the Mayor’s office has not reached aa agreement on the proposed construction of a new stadium, any plans presented will be provisional and subject to change.  A sign over on the south side of RFK shows the sentiment of how some in the community feel about the stadium. 

EAT BRGZ Closes Eastern Market and the West End Locations.  The sign on the door says, “We’ve made the strategic decision to move on to an exciting new chapter.  It has been a our greatest pleasure serving this community over the past five years ….  Thank you for all the love, support and memories that will last a life time.”  EAT BRGZ owner Brandon Gaynor opened the burger joint in early summer of 2019, featuring a new concept based on a “complex burger” which set it apart from competitors.  See here:  https://bit.ly/2IOOcj3

Update on Lobby Bar.  Here’s a photo from the past week of the on-going renovation of the former Boxcar at 224 7th Street, SE, across from Eastern Market.  The owner of the new Lobby Bar expects to open at the end of February.  Photo credit:  Maggie Hall. 

Acqua al 2’s owner Ari Gejdenson is stirring up the across-the alley-neighbors.  Gejdenson is reopening AA2 at 212 7th Street across the street from Eastern Market.  All well and good.  However, the restaurant’s liquor license placard in the front window includes an application for an “Entertainment endorsement to provide live entertainment inside of the premises and on the sidewalk café with dancing and cover charge.”  And it goes on:  “House of operation alcoholic beverage sales, service and consumption and live entertainment for inside premises and for the sidewalk cafe.   Sunday through Thursday 7:00am to 2:00am Friday and Saturday 7:00am to 3:00am.”  That may be a bridge too far.  The application will come up before the ANC6B ABC Committee which will hold a virtual meeting on Tuesday night at 7:00pm (see below for details). Could be contentious. 

Foliage at Frager’s takes over the former Hype Café Space.  Staff says Foliage at Frager’s opened up the new space a few weeks ago.  A grand opening is a month or so away, but customers are welcome in the new space which is fully stocked with garden supplies.

Here’s what inside the former café looks like now.

BTW – Frager’s is holding its second annual Ladies; Night on Thursday  February 13, from 5pm – 8pm, with 20% off everything in the store during the event which features demonstrations, giveaways, and “good eats.” 

The Week Ahead…

Monday, February 3

ANC6D will hold a virtual Administrative Meeting at 7:00pm.

Tuesday, February 4

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

Agenda:

  • Discussion of a new Medical Cannabis Retailer license with delivery endorsement at Dreamy DC, 1111 H Street, NE.
  • Discussion of a letter requesting the city council to pass legislation creating a provision for a moratorium zone for cannabis licenses equivalent to the provision for a moratorium zone for alcohol licenses.
  • Discussion of a new Class C Restaurant license with carry out and delivery endorsement at Dumpling Hot Pot Beyond, 1216-1218 H Street.

ANC6B Alcoholic Beverage & Cannabis Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

Agenda: 

  • New restaurant liquor license for Acqua al 2 (212 7th Street, SE)

MPD First District Citizens Advisory Council Monthly virtual 6:00 – 7:15pm

Agenda: 

  • Discussion of crime in the First District

Also on Tuesday:

  • The Friends of Kingman Park RFK Taskforce will hold an in-person meeting at St. Benedict’s Church to solicit community input on RFK
  • Representatives of Bridgepoint Hospital at 213 7th Street, NE, will hold a community meeting featuring Chris Lafontsee, the  new Chief Executive Officer, Capitol Hill and Perry Limes, the new Vice President of Business Development.  The purpose of the meeting is to discuss Bridgepoint Healthcare and community issues.  The meeting is at 6:30pm in the Bridgepoint Hospital Conference Room.   

Wednesday, February 5

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

Agenda: 

  • Update on the Potomac Ave Metro construction.
  • Continued discussion on the Penn/Potomac improvement project. Discussion will focus on forming an agreement with NPS for maintenance of the park in the traffic circle.
  • Discussion on Lincoln Park traffic safety collaboration with ANC 6A
  • Presentation on traffic closures related to the Capitol Hill Classic and discussion of a support letter request

ANC6C Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 6:30pm. 

Agenda:  TBA

Thursday, February 5

  • ANC6C Transportation Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 6:30pm. 

Agenda:  TBA

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about: 

Hill Center Events

Tuesday, February 4 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Free

Reel Abilities Film Festival – 2 screenings. Deaf Giants and Rally Caps.  For more and tickets, see here:  https://www.hillcenterdc.org/event/reelabilities-film-festival-greater-washington/

Rally Caps (In this star-studded family coming-of-age drama, young Jordy, who is recovering from a serious Little League baseball injury, goes to summer camp where he forms a friendship with Lucas, who just had Cochlear Implant surgery. Together, they form a special bond as friends and pitcher/catcher duo and lead their team in the camp championship game.)

Deaf Giants (Baseball-loving 10-year-old Bracken and his younger deaf brother investigate the contrast between early 1900s inclusion of deaf players in baseball and the present, seeking to understand why representation has regressed.)

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