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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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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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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 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 1, 2025 · 9:27 am

Update on Watkins Playground and Park

Update on Watkins Playground and Park

By Larry Janezich

Posted February 1, 2025

Community meeting on Watkins Playground and Park Update, Thursday, January 30.

Concept design for the new Watkins Playground

Last Thursday night, the Department of General Services (DGS) hosted a community meeting at Watkins School to solicit input on the design for the new Watkins Playground – part of the Watkins Playground and Park upgrades.  Construction is scheduled to begin on the $2.25 million project this summer with completion anticipated in the fall. 

The current playground will be demolished and new playground equipment will be installed.  The basketball courts will be resurfaced and improvements will be made to Watkins Field.  

A common community concern regarding DGS and Department of Parks projects is what happens to the project after completion. 

Some parents of Watkins students who attended the meeting expressed frustration at the lack of planning for maintenance and how difficult it is to get equipment repaired.  One attendee said she had “no faith in the ability of the DC government to fix things,” and questioned the wisdom of installing new swings on the playground, citing how quickly they tend to break and how impossible it is to get them fixed.  The result, she said, was a dead zone in the playground. 

Department of Recreation External Affairs rep Tommie Jones acknowledged existing difficulties in the city’s repair response record.  But he also said that there was pressure from the community for swings because they are so popular with children. 

ANC6B Chair Vince Marino attended the meeting and later commented, “I’m pleased that DPR is taking community feedback seriously, from both adults and children.  I’m especially happy that DGS, the maintenance corps of the city, sent a representative who took notes on the neighbors’ heartfelt complaints about the slow pace of city repairs and litter removal.”

For more info and a link to the January 30 PowerPoint presentation, go here:  https://bit.ly/4aDfKlD

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January 26, 2025 · 9:08 pm

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

The Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

By Larry Janezich

Posted January 26, 2025

Here are the 1st, 2nd  (2), and 3rd place winners of the Hill Center’s 2025 Regional Juried Exhibition, juried by Phil Hutinet, publisher of East City Art.  The exhibitions run from January 15th through May 3rd.

First Place, Jessica Maria Hopkins.  Colors of My Reflection.  Acrylic, Acrylic pen, ball point pen on canvas. 

Second Place # 1, James Terrell, The Last Supper.  Collage, Acrylic Paint, Paper and Fabric.

Second Place #2, Take Me to the Water.  Collage, Paper, Fabric, Paint.

Third Place, Maddy Keener, Pick The Gleaming Bones Clean.  Acrylic on Canvas. 

Capitol Hill Books at night.

Here’s Triple Candies’ January exhibit and a detail from same, in the space in front of the former Li’l Pub at 655 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  Triple Candie is a research-oriented curatorial agency run by art historian co-founders Shelly Bancroft and Peter Nesbett.  Their purpose is to create alternative exhibition methods making that the object of critical focus rather than what is displayed.   

The Week Ahead…

Highlights: 

  • Tuesday:  ANC6A ABC Committee considers  proposed 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.
  • Wednesday:  Watkins Improvements Meeting

Monday, January 27

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

Agenda:

  • Adoption of Agenda and Approval of Minutes​
  • Ice Breaker – Movie suggestions
  • Announcements & Updates – Reminder of Sunday morning cleanups on I Street NE – People’s Front of H Street NE Group – How to join the 6A list serve.
  • Introduction of ANC6A Community Outreach Committee New Members
  • Vote on New Meeting Schedule

ANC6B Parks and Public Spaces Task Force will hold an in-person meeting at 7:00pm.

  • 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE; Second Floor, Conference Room 3 (Main Entrance Adjacent to Trader Joe’s)

Agenda:   TBA

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

Among items on the agenda:

  • Metro Police Department 1D Update
  • Guest Presentation
  • 2025 Committee Goals Planning
  • February Commission Action Items and February Committee Agenda Planning

ANC7D Community Relations and Grants Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 6:30pm.

Agenda:  TBA

Tuesday, January 28

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

Agenda:  TBA

Wednesday, January 29

EMCAC will hold an in-person and virtual meeting in the North Hall, Eastern Market at 7:00pm.

  • For info on how to join the meeting, go here:  TBA

Agenda:  TBA

Thursday, January 30

Watkins Improvements Meeting

  • DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the DC Department of General Services will discuss the Watkins Recreation Center park and playground improvements on Thursday, January 30, 2025, 6:00-7:30 @ Watkins Elementary School. RSVP at https://watkins.splashthat.com/

Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about: 

Thursday, January 30.  6:30pm. Free Event at Folger Library. 

This panel discussion explores the unexpected ways Shakespeare’s legacy has endured, and how engaging with theater-making enhances the relevance and value of Shakespeare in the everyday lives of people.

The keynote is led by Folger’s Director of Programming & Performance and Folger Theatre Artistic Director Karen Ann Daniels in conversation with:

  • author, adaptor, director, theater scholar and Where There’s a Will podcast host, Barry Edelstein
  • Latine playwright, educator, facilitator, producer and Director of Public Works at the Public Theater Laurie Woolery

Register here:  https://www.folger.edu/whats-on/shakespeare-as-a-starting-point-shakespeare-with-community-reading-room-festival-2025/

Free Exhibit at the Folger through February 9.  Little Books, Big Gifts: The Artistry of Esther Inglis – A special exhibition at the Folger.

Stuart and Mimi Rose Rare Book and Manuscript Exhibition Hall

Free; timed-entry pass recommended

Esther Inglis (1570?—1624) was a professional-class Franco-Scottish refugee, a working mother of eight, and a contemporary of Shakespeare. Earning her living by her pen, she combined her artistic skills and her religious beliefs to create over 60 miniature handwritten and hand-illustrated books. She strategically gifted these books to dozens of prominent European Protestants during a period of religious turmoil. Four hundred years after her death, this exhibition explores Esther’s life and work as an early modern influencer and as the first woman in Britain to preface her works with selfies.

For more on this and other exhibits, go here:  https://www.folger.edu/whats-on/

Artists: Open Call at the Capitol Hill Art League – Submissions Close 2/14/24.  The Capitol Hill Art League (CHAL) is holding its 14th Annual “Open Call” art competition for artists throughout the DMV as well as Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia. This year’s theme is “Landscape”.

This annual competition awards cash prizes and attracts artists of many varied talents. The juror for the competition is Glenn Kessler, an internationally collected and awarded artist and founder of the Compass Atelier in Rockville, MD.  

If you are an artist, you need not be a member of CHAL to enter.  Link for more information about the show:  https://client.smarterentry.com/chal

For more information about the Capitol Hill Art League please visit: https://www.caphillartleague.org/

Capitol Hill Chorale is recruiting 55 and older adults as new members.  No experience is required to join an Encore choir!  There are no auditions to become a member of an Encore program; interested singers need only to have a love for music and a desire to improve their physical, mental, and emotional health. No singer needs to have any experience with music or singing, and the ability to read music is not necessary. Singers may be seated or standing for all ninety-minute rehearsals and performances. Most importantly of all, Encore is fun! Encore singers love the music, love to sing, and thrive on the camaraderie that comes with the Encore experience.  You can register at: https://tinyurl.com/5y9e5up4

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January 5, 2025 · 10:19 pm

The Week Ahead…& ANC Swearing In Photos

The Week Ahead…& Photos from ANC Swearing In

by Larry Janezich

Posted January 5, 2025

Thursday, January 2, ANC Commissioners were sworn in at a ceremony held at the Walter E. Wshington Convention Center. Image provided by Council of DC.

An image from the other side of the room. Photo: CM Charles Allen’s office.

An image of Ward 7 Commissioners being sworn in – oath being administered by newly-elected Councilmember Wendell Phillips. Photo: Council of DC.

You don’t see this every day – fresh Black Winter Truffles from Spain, vacuum-packed and available at Eastern Market’s Bowers Fancy Dairy Products.

This weekend, the Eastern Market craft vendors moved off of 7th Street, and into the North Hall. On Thursday at 12:00pm, the vendors of the South Hall will hold a moment of silence as the U.S. Navy honors former President Carter with a 21 gun salute from the Navy Yard.

Saturday afternoon, the American flag flew at half staff over the US Capitol in honor of former President Jimmy Carter. The 8 foot security fence reflects the two National Security Events taking place this week: The Joint Meeting of Congress on Monday to count the electoral ballots, and the Lying in State Tuesday – and Wednesday, with the State Funeral following on Thursday. See details below.

The Week Ahead…

Monday, January 6

Snow Emergency in effect.  Schools will be closed and trash will not be picked up.  Residents will be notified when trash collection resumes. 

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

Agenda: 

  • Kenneth H Nash Post 8 American Legion t/a Kenneth H Nash Post 8 American Legion – 224 D Street SE. Substantial Change to Retailers Class C License to add a Games of Skill endorsement to their operations.
  • Appointment of ABC Resident Member for 6B06

ANC6C Alcohol Beverage Licensing  Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.

Agenda:

  • Update from Commissioner Wirt re: Kae LLC 312 Massachusetts Ave., NE, Medical Cannabis Retailer New License.
  • The Consortium at 201 Massachusetts Ave. NE.  Class C Tavern New License

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

  • Please contact the office at 6d@anc.dc.gov if you wish to have a link to view the meeting.

National Special Security Event.  U.S. Congress will hold a joint session to count electoral ballots.   The US Secret Service says those who live and work in the District can expect security measures in place like those that are put in place during the State of the Union address.

Tuesday, January 7

National Special Security Event.  On Jan. 7, former President Jimmy Carter’s body will leave Georgia and be flown to Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, where a motorcade will drive him to Washington, D.C. There will be a service for members of Congress at 3 p.m. in the Capitol Rotunda.

  • Carter will lie in state at the U.S. Capitol from 7 p.m. until midnight Tues., Jan. 7, and again from 7 a.m. Wed., Jan. 8 until 7 a.m. Thurs., Jan. 9. Viewers can come to the Capitol and pay their respects during those hours.
  • At 9 a.m. Jan. 9, Carter’s body will be taken from the Capitol to the Washington National Cathedral for his National Funeral Service.
  • The Washington Navy Yard will conduct a 21-gun salute to honor President Jimmy Carter on January 9, 2025 at 12 PM. The Navy is honoring Carter’s life and legacy, including his time at the U.S. Naval Academy during World War
  • “The Secret Service will use drones as part of the comprehensive security plan.
  • For more, go here:  https://bit.ly/40khrR8

Wednesday, January 8

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

Among items on the draft agenda: 

  • Appointment and Election of Committee Members and Officers 
  • SMD appointments by individual commissioners
  • Election of at-large resident committee members (up to 3 per committee)
  • Election of committee chairs
  • Commissioner announcements
  • Consent Calendar TBD
  • Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee
    • The Consortium, 201 Mass. Ave. NE (new class C tavern) 

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

Agenda: 

  • DDOT Presentation on Penn/Potomac Intersection Redesign

Thursday, January 9

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

Among items on the draft agenda: 

  • Motion to elect officers: Chair – Dave Wethington (6A04); -Vice Chair/Parliamentarian –Amber Gove (6A04); Secretary – Jeff Gierst (6A06); Treasurer – Roberta Shapiro (6A02)
  • Motion to elect members and leaders of the permanent Committees for 2024.

Plenary Session:

  • Suggested Motion: ANC6A approve a 10 percent increase in the compensation for services provided by the ANC 6A administrator and note taker. (The last increase was approved in October 2020.)
  • Suggested Motion: ANC6A protest the application for Substantial Changes to a Class C Tavern license at Henceforth DC at 1335 H Street, NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached.
  • Suggested Motion : ANC6A protest the application for a new Class C Tavern at Ethio Vegan at 1362 H Street NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached.
  • Suggested Motion : ANC6A protest the application for a Medical Cannabis Retailer license for Dreamy DC at 1111 H Street NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached. ANC 6A will request formal confirmation from ABCA that the proposed location for Dreamy DC does not violate any of the proximity limits in the Medical Cannabis laws or regulations. 
  • Suggested Motion : ANC6A ANC 6A protest the application for a Medical Cannabis Retailer license for Proper Exotic at 13 8th Street NE, unless a settlement agreement is reached.

ANC6B Planning and Zoning Committee hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm. 

Agenda: 

  • Historic Preservation Application for 321 D Street, SE
  • 1900 Massachusetts Ave., SE [7F08] .  Zoning application for construction of new correctional facility. Owner(s): Department of General Services Applicant: Eric DeBear
  • 409 8th Street SE – Popeyes

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December 29, 2024 · 10:18 pm

Another Quiet Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

Another Quiet Week Ahead…& Some Photos from the Past Week

by Larry Janezich

Posted December 29

Joselito Closes after Seven Years at 660 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  Here’s the notice announcing the closure posted next to the entrance. 

“With a heavy heart, we announce the permanent closure of Joselito Casa de Comidas in Eastern Market on December 28th.

It has been our privilege to serve you for the past seven years.  The laughter shared, the special occasions celebrated, and the community we have built together, especially through the pandemic, have been the highlights of our journey at Joselito.  Each meal, every conversation, and all of the faces we’ve seen have made Joseliro a place my father would have been proud of:  a place of warmth, connection and joy where friends and family gather.

While this closure is necessary, it is not the end of our story.  We are launching “el Rincon de Joselito,” twelve special seats at our chef’s counter at SER, our restaurant in Arlington, where guests will experience tasting menus from Joselito.  Seatings will be available by reservations made at least 24 hours in advance and will begin early in 2025.

We are incredibly grateful for your support and love over the years.  Thank you for being a part of our story and we hope to see you at “el Rincon de Joselito” at SER.

With deepest appreciation,

Javier, Christiana and the entire Joselito Team”

Last October, owner Javier Candon, told Eater DC that he would close once someone signed a new lease.  He said that once he found a tenant, the landlord (Stanton Development) agreed to let them go without any penalties.  No word yet on who Joselito’s successor in the space might be.

And on Barracks Row, Hill Restaurant Group announced that its Playa Ocho Cantina on Barracks Row was up for sale.  The sign says its temporarily closed for renovations.

The week before Christmas, Los Caballeros at 308 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, was celebrating its one year anniversary.

The Furies Collective House on 11th Street, SE, designated a National Historic Landmark.  On December 16, the National Park Service finalized the designation, marking an additional recognition of the significance of the house at 219 11th Street, SE.  The house had previously been listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.  The Furies Collective was a group of 12 lesbian feminist activists who made the house their operational center and published a newspaper called “The Furies.”  Between 1971 and 1973 the group’s publication raised questions about women’s place in society and the nature of the relationship between men and women, women and other women, and women and society.  In Greek mythology, The Furies were three goddesses of vengeance.

The house is now the home of Capitol Hill author Robert Pohl and his wife Antonia.  Here’s a link to Pohl’s Facebook page which follows progress on his latest book, 101 House in a Zeppelin https://www.facebook.com/RobertPohlAuthor

Fencing the Capitol.  Sunday afternoon, the Architect of the Capitol’s securing of the Capitol Complex with 8 foot fencing was underway.  This is the view from 2nd and Pennsylvania Avenue, SE.  The fencing will eventually encompass the Capitol. 

Status Report on the Inaugural Platform.  Construction continues on the West Front of the US Capitol.  As seen in the photo, the structure on the far left is the radio platform from which audio  correspondents will broadcast live coverage of the ceremony.  Just to the left of center, the narrow white structure is the Center Camera Stand, where the network pool will provide head-on video coverage to other news subscribers who do not have cameras on this platform.  Other occupants of the structure will be network cameras (ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, FOX) providing unilateral coverage as well a C-SPAN camera and official video cameras.  Also on this platform will be still photographers from major news organizations.  On the far right, the South Camera Stand will be home to additional network cameras, video cameras from the major network and independent news organizations, and more still photographers. 

The Week Ahead…

Monday, December 30

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

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

Among items on the agenda:

  • Announcements & Updates – Reminder of Sunday morning cleanups on I Street – People’s Front of H Street Group – How to join the 6A list serve.
  • ANC 6A Community Outreach Committee Eligibility and Candidates
  • Community Comments & Concerns

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December 20, 2024 · 12:42 am

Rumsey Pool Likely to Close in January 2026 for Demolition/Reconstruction

Rumsey Pool Likely to Close in January 2026 for Demolition/Reconstruction

by Larry Janezich

Posted December 19, 2024

Thursday night, DPR held the first of many community meetings on the modernization of Rumsey Aquatic Court.

CM Charles Allen called the project a once in a generation opportunity.

Thursday night, DPR held its first community meeting to launch the design phase for the construction of a new Rumsey Aquatic Center.  CM Charles Allen told more than 150 attendees that they could swim for about another year while the new building is being designed and before the old building closes for at least 18 months of demolition and construction. 

The meeting was held in the North Hall of Eastern Market and was presided over by DPR External Affairs official, Tommie Jones. 

CM Charles Allen who shepherded the already-appropriated $37 million in funding for the project through the City Council spoke at the meeting.

Allen called the project a once in a generation opportunity and noted the challenges the project faced, being adjacent to the historic Eastern Market, and the importance of designing a structure appropriate for that space.  He said he had met with several swim stakeholder groups and heard one consistent message:  they want more water – more swimming lanes.  He said he heard a lot of ideas about the second floor, including an observation deck where parents can watch their children swim.  The second floor is currently slated to be a senior center with a tech lounge, a business incubator space, and an indoor fitness center.  Another opportunity will be to reimagine the alley between the new building and Eastern Market and activating the dead zone on the C Street side (which used to be the original entrance to the building).  He said, “The building will not be all things to all people,” but “we will turn to the community to ask whether we’re headed in the right or wrong direction – just let us know.”

Plans are under consideration to transport Rumsey swimmers to other pools during the closure.  “The Rumsey users are a community, Allen said, “and we will do everything we can to hold the community together.” 

In addition to ideas mentioned by Allen, DPR’s PowerPoint presentation listed other ideas which have been mentioned, including:

  • Zero Entry Approach to pool (also known as beach entry pool).
  • Locker Room improvements.
  • Explore new ways to activate front plaza.
  • Honoring local history.
  • Multipurpose community spaces.

The preliminary Project Milestone Schedule is as follows: 

  • Dec 2024 Community Meeting 1 – Project kickoff community meeting.
  • (Electronic Community Survey – February/March 2025)
  • Spring 2025 Community Meeting 2 – Concept Review.
  • (Schematic design phase)
  • TBD Community Meeting 3 – Design Update.
  • TBD Community Meeting Final Design.
  • (Permitting Phase)
  • TBD Community Meeting Construction Kick off.
  • (Construction Updates)

During Q&A, some of the concerns which members of the community asked the design team to consider included: 

  • The importance of providing adequate funding for maintenance.
  • Provision for swim meets.
  • Transgender bathrooms. 
  • Expansion of the building footprint.
  • Use of bromine or ozone instead of chlorine water treatment. 
  • Prioritizing use of the new building as an aquatic center. 
  • Keeping pool open until last minute.

Rumsey opened in 1970 as the Capitol East Natatorium – the first year round, racially integrated public swimming pool in the district.  The facility renamed in honor of Dr. William H. Rumsey, former Director of the DC DPR and co-founder of the Black History Invitational Swim Meet.  For more, see here:  https://bit.ly/3RCTY70

The project website where Thursday night’s Power Presentation will be posted is here:  https://dgs.dc.gov/page/rumsey-acquatic-center    DPR says it will go live on December 20.   

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