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
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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 Zeppelinhttps://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.
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
Mott’s Community Owned Market Hopes to Open in Early Spring
by Larry Janezich
Posted December 18, 2024
Mott’s Market Winter Wonderland Celebration and Holiday Market on Saturday, December 14.
Payton Sherwood, the vendor and operator of the new Capitol Hill’s Mott’s Market at 232 12th Street, SE, says he “likes to believe the Market will open in early spring.” That’s Payton on the right – also pictured at far left is Michael Skinner, President of Mott’s Market Neighborhood LLC. The occasion was last Saturday afternoon’s Winter Wonderland Event at Mott’s. Neighbors gathered for a celebration of the season and to view progress on the market’s buildout as the building takes shape for reopening.
Sherwood says that the LLC has received its liquor license and funding is in place for the final push. What remains is finishing the plumbing and electrical and inspections, then finishing the interior, final inspections and getting a certificate of occupancy.
Mott’s Market closed as a neighborhood mom and pop store in 2022. A group of neighbors organized by Skinner raised money to purchase and restore the store to preserve it as a community market. The market is owned by an LLC comprised of 90 community members. For more, go here: https://www.mottsmarket.com/
Here’s a photo of the interior looking toward the street. There’s room for inside seating (as well as outside). More than a grocery, the carry out or eat on premises menu will feature sandwiches, pastries, prepared food, coffee, wine and beer. True to it’s original function, the shop will stock household staples.
Saturday’s holiday market at Mott’s included two artist’s stands offering ideal holiday gift ideas. Here’s Erin Thompson Studio’s with Capitol Hill inspired art works. https://erinthompsonstudio.com/
Last Monday, there were signs of progress on the buildout for Dos Toros Taqueria, opening at 215 Pennsylvania Avenue – formerly the Firehook Bakery. Dos Toros Taqueria – a San Francisco-style taqueria – has announced the opening of three outlets in DC. The enterprise has a dozen locations in NYC. Here’s a link to the restaurant’s menu at the NYC outlets: https://www.dostoros.com/menu Photo credit: Bob Gellman
Last Friday, CM Charles Allen held community office hours at Pretzel Bakery at 15th and C Street, SE.
Friday afternoon, DC Public Library posted the December construction update on the modernization of the SE Public Library. The Library closed on January 4, 2024 and is scheduled to reopen in early 2026. Here are a few photos from the update (see here: https://bit.ly/3ZEo7YL ) The one above shows the lower level, excavated and braced. Photo credit DCPL.
The new addition, lower level, facing South Carolina Avenue. Photo credit DCPL.
Laying of the concrete slab on the lowest level is complete. The windows mark the original building’s lower level. Photo credit DCPL..
The new opening in the roof for the skylight. Photo credit DCPL..
The Week Ahead….
Monday, December 16
ANC6B SE Library Taskforce will hold a hybrid meeting at 6:30pm.
The in-person meeting will be held on the 2nd floor of 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE. The entrance is adjacent to Trader Joe’s.
For info on how to join the meeting virtually, go here: https://anc6b.org/
Agenda: Status of the renovation of the library and how to improve services at the DC Public Library’s Arthur Capper TechExpress, located on the second floor of the Arthur Capper Recreation Center in the Navy Yard neighborhood at 1000 5th Street, SE. Services include wi-fi access, public computers, printing, copying and scanning as well as item return and holds pick-up. For more, see here: https://www.dclibrary.org/plan-visit/arthur-capper-techexpress
Tuesday, December 17
ANC6B’s Executive Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Agenda: To set the agenda for the January 14 meeting of the full commission.
Thursday, December 19
Community Meeting on Rumsey Aquatic Center (Rescheduled from December 12):
DC Department of Parks and Recreation will host the first community meeting on the demolition and modernization of the Rumsey Aquatic Center, December 19, at 6:30pm in the North Hall of Eastern Market. The design/build team are expected to take part in the meeting. For more, see here: https://bit.ly/3ZsHnsv
ANC6C Grants Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:30pm.
Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:
Closure of Downtown Metro Stations Dec. 20-30
WMATA plans to close some Downtown Metrorail stations for the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines between Friday, Dec. 20, and Monday, Dec. 30 to improve tracks and signaling. During the closure, shuttle buses will replace train service at affected stations, providing customers with alternate access to stations. Stations will reopen Dec. 31. Work will be completed in two phases:
Dec. 20-26: Farragut West, McPherson Square, and the lower level (Blue, Orange, Silver service) at Metro Center will be closed.
Dec. 27-30: Farragut West, McPherson Square, lower level (Blue, Orange, Silver service) atMetro Center, Federal Triangle, Smithsonian, and the lower level of L’Enfant Plaza (Blue, Orange, Silver service) will be closed.
The former Capitol Hill Tandoor and Grill at 419 8th Street, SE, Barracks Row
Empire Racquet owner Bryn Bryant at left shows off the new space
And here’s the reverse shot looking toward the 8th Street
Empire Racquet Pickle Ball and Gym Is Coming to Barracks Row
By Larry Janezich
Posted December 4, 2024
What is being billed as a multipurpose family gym is opening in the space formerly occupied by Capitol Hill Tandoor and Grill at 419 8th Street, SE, Barracks Row.
Owner Bryn Bryant told CHC that he hopes to open Empire Racquet by February 1. He is currently awaiting a demolition permit to begin construction in the 110 X 35 foot space. In addition to a gym, the space will hold a tennis shop which will sell equipment and string racquets.
Bryant, who is new to the area, comes from NYC where he ran tennis clubs for 15 years.
He says he will program the space to keep it busy all day and into the night:
5:00am to 9:00am – Boot Camp
9:00am to 2:00pm – Pickle Ball and kiddie classes
2:00pm to 6:00pm – Indoor cricket and kiddie classes, including indoor cricket, soccer, tennis, and gym
6:00pm to 8:00pm – Pickle Ball
8:00pm to closing – Indoor Cricket
The website – empireracquet.com – is under construction. Bryant is opening a second Empire Racquet at 15th and L Street, NW.
Here’s a photo of a beautifully restored classic 1955 Chevrolet 2-Door Sedan frequently parked at Eastern Market. Chevy introduced a revolutionary V-8 engine for the model which was the forerunner of engines for future racing cars and hot rods. Eastern Market Manager Barry Margeson told CHC that it belongs to an Eastern Market Shopper named Strickland. Margeson mused, “It’s a sort of red and white Christmas card for Eastern Market.”
The U.S. Capitol’s Christmas tree arrived at the Capitol on Friday, November 22. The tree lighting ceremony will take place on Tuesday, December 3, at 5:00pm on the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The tree will be lit from dusk until 11 PM each night until January 1, 2025.
The tree is an 80-foot Sitka spruce from the Wrangell District Region in Alaska’s Tongass National Forest. The tree – an 80-foot Sitka spruce named “Spruce Wayne” – arrived by tractor-trailer from Tongass National Forest in Alaska.
In the background, the Inaugural Platform for the swearing in ceremony is under construction. The blue markings indicate the ends of the seating platforms upon which the official guests – members of Congress and the Supreme Court, as well and the Presidential parties – will sit.
The Architect of the Capitol has begun construction of the Inaugural Platform to swear in the President. The official swearing in will occur on Sunday, January 20, 2025, as required by the Constitution. The public swearing in will occur at noon on Monday, January 21, 2025. An extra measure of security for this year’s inaugural platform construction period in the form of an eight foot wooden fence surrounding the inaugural platform and all of the media stands which surround it. New AREA CLOSED signage warns “Do Not Enter or Remain” (emphasis mine).
The U.S. Botanic Garden’s “Season’s Greenings!” holiday exhibit is open, now through January 5, 2025, including models of 21 DC landmarks inside and an outdoor model train exhibit which travels around and through giant replicas of plant and pollinators all of which are made from plant parts.
The Garden is open 10am – 5pm daily and tickets are not required. On December 10, 12, 17, 19, and 26, evening hours will be extended until 8pm, with live music and food/drink vendors. Night time lighting during the extended hours brings a special glow to the monument exhibits. Plan your visit at www.USBG.gov/Holiday
Here’s a photo of visitors to the Botanic Gardens on Sunday afternoon.
And an all-plant-parts model of the whimsical statue of Albert Einstein from the memorial bronze by sculptor Robert Berks, depicting Albert Einstein seated with manuscript papers in hand. The monument is on the grounds of the National Academy of Sciences on Constitution Avenue, NW.
And here’s a photo of a plant parts orchid bee visiting a vanilla orchid in the train exhibit on the west side of the Botanic Gardens. Here too, nighttime lighting brings enchantment to the display.
The Week Ahead….
Monday, December 2
6B Planning and Zoning Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Note: This meeting date has been adjusted to avoid conflicts with holidays, religious days, or other events.
Election of Chair Por-Tempore (Current chair Commissioner Frank D’Andrea’s term will expire January 1, 2025 and the committee will meet in January, prior to the election of a new permanent chair.)
ANC 6C Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Café 8 – 424 8th Street, SE. Request to amend settlement agreement to allow for greater occupancy, to increase occupancy capacity from 88 to 180.
Election of Chair Pro-Tempore (Current chair Commissioner Chander Jayaraman’s term will expire January 1, 2025 and the committee will meet in January, prior to the election of a new permanent chair.)
Future of Rosedale Library 6:30pm
Hosted by ANC 7D06 Commissioner Marc Friend, join DC Public Library Executive Director Richard Reyes-Gavilan, Director of the DC Department of Parks and Recreation Theenie Freeman, and Rosedale Library Friends on Dec. 3rd at 6:30pm at the Rosedale Recreation Center to hear about the plans for the new Rosedale Library. This is our first view of the plans and a great opportunity for community feedback.
In person at the Rosedale Recreation Center (1701 Gales St NE) at 6:30pm. To join the virtual meeting, go here: https://bit.ly/3VkgsgZ
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree lighting ceremony will take place on Tuesday, December 3, at 5:00pm on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol.
Wednesday, December 4
ANC6B Transportation Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
11th Street Safety Discussion with Shirley Chisholm Elementary School
Election of Chair Pro-Tempore (Current chair Commissioner Matt Lafortune’s term will expire January 1, 2025 and the committee will meet in January, prior to the election of a new permanent chair.)
ANC6C Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00pm.
Brent Elementary Holiday Greenery Sale from December 5th- 8th.
The Brent Elementary School Parent Teacher Association will hold its 14th annual Holiday Sale from December 5th- 8th. Proceeds 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 http://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 the popular option to have their trees delivered on the day of purchase and the option for in-home setup.
Thursday, December 5, 2024 – 10 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
Saturday, February 1, 2025 – 8 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
Thursday, March 6, 2025 – 10 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
Saturday, April 19, 2025 – 8 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
Thursday, June 19, 2025 – 10 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
Saturday, August 23, 2025 – 8 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
Thursday, September 18, 2025 – 10 AM-2 PM – RFK Parking Lot 3 (2400 E. Capitol Street NE)
The Special Waste Collection event may be delayed or canceled due to inclement weather. Please check twitter.com/dczerowaste or twitter.com/DCDPW for the most up-to-date information.
REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO PARTICIPATE.
To accommodate everyone in a safe and timely manner, DPW is now requiring registration to participation in the Special Waste Collection Events. District residents can sign up for a 15-minute entry slot when residents can arrive anytime in the 15 minute period and a DPW staff member will be there is assist you. Please note that time selected is the arrival window, not the time of services. Only one ticket is required per vehicle. No entry will be allowed after 2:00 pm. Open to DC residents only. Please bring proof of residency (e.g. driver’s license, utility bill, lease agreement) and Eventbrite registration. No commercial waste will be allowed. Register here: https://dpw.dc.gov/service/household-hazardous-waste-hhw-e-cycling-document-shredding
The Special Waste Collection event may be delayed or canceled due to inclement weather. If DPW reaches capacity, entrance into the events may be blocked for resident safety. Please check twitter.com/dczerowaste or twitter.com/DCDPW for the most up-to-date information.
The Week Ahead – Restaurant Updates … & Some Photos from Last Week
by Larry Janezich
Posted November 24, 2024
The Salty Doughnut looks to be headed for Barracks Row. According to a source, the popular national doughnut chain has purchased the three outlets formerly owned by District Doughnut. Last September, a sign announcing the “temporary closure” of the three District Doughnut shops (Barracks Row, The Wharf, and Union Market) was posted at the shop, along with the promise that “District Doughnut has some exciting news to share in a few weeks.” There have been previous press reports that The Salty Doughnut Restaurant chain was moving into the DMV – the opening of an outlet has been announced in the Fairfax County’s Mosaic District off Route 29 outside the beltway. Until now, the locations of potential sites in DC have not been made public. For more info on The Salty Doughnut, here’s a link to their website: https://www.saltydonut.com/ And their Instagram link is here: https://www.instagram.com/thesaltydonut/?hl=en
Barracks Row Joey’s has been bought by Teds’s Bulletin owner, Salis Holdings. Back in 2011, a NYC entrepreneur named Steve Salis appeared before ANC6B proposing to open a “high end pizza outlet” on Barracks Row called Ima Pizza. Later, the name changed to &Pizza and Salis cofounded the local chain. Salis sold out his share of the company in 2019 and subsequently acquired Ted’s Bulletin (six locations), Kramers Bookstore (the former Kramer Books and Afterwords), the Fedralist Pig, and Honeymoon Chicken (12 locations). No hints yet on Salis’ plans for Joey’s.
DC Falafel on Pennsylvania Avenue– Down Pennsylvania Avenue at 1123 next to Frager’s, Capitol Hill’s only falafel outlet has been getting favorable reviews from patrons. Here’s a link to the carryout’s menu which features falafel wraps and platters as well as wraps and platters for chicken, lamb & beef sharwarma. Here’s a link to their website and on-line ordering info. https://www.dcfalafel.com/ Inexpensive.
New Greek Restaurant – Word on the street is that a new Greek restaurant is coming to 315 Pennsylvania Avenue, SE, Spike Mendelsohn’s old Mexican Restaurant Santa Rosa Taqueria. This is a developing story.
Southeast Library Modernization. Here’s a recent photo of the on-going modernization of Southeast Library showing the excavation and bracing of the lower level.
And here’s a Design Phase Rendering illustrating the new lowest level. Next month will see the demolition creating a roof opening for the new skylight.
Coldwell Banker’s Holiday Animated Window display at 350 7th Street, SE, across from Peregrine Espresso, returns to celebrate the season – a nostalgic and transporting delight. The display was designed by Manuel Cortes of Groovy Cards and Gifts – see here: https://groovydc.com/
The Week Ahead….
Monday, November 25
Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6A Community Outreach Committee will hold a virtual meeting at 7:00 pm.
Announcements & Updates – Reminder of Sunday morning cleanups on I Street – People’s Front of H Street Group – How to join the 6A list serve.
Rat Race: Supervisory Code and Rodent inspector Andre Pitman
Community Comments & Concern
Capitol Hill Corner would also like you to know about:
Brent Elementary Holiday Greenery Sale from December 5th- 8th.
The Brent Elementary School Parent Teacher Association will hold its 14th annual Holiday Sale from December 5th- 8th. Proceeds 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 http://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 the popular option to have their trees delivered on the day of purchase and the option for in-home setup.
CAPITOL HILL CORNER 