you're invited! yes, you!

you're invited! yes, you!

NORTH CAPITOL MAIN STREET

NCMS Hosts Official Kick-off Join Our Mailing List! info@ncmsinc.org Greetings!
Please be our guest... at the grand opening of our new office space -- 1703 North Capitol Street, NE. We will kick off our new program; Councilmember Harry (Tommy) Thomas will bring greetings; we'll share new opportunities to get involved as well as upcoming programs/projects at North Capitol Main Street, all designed to improve the business districts within your neighborhood. See you there! Garry Clark, Executive Director Thur., March 26, 2009 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. 1703 N. Capitol St. NE RSVP: 202-905-6039 New Kid on the Block
[Photo]Introducing North Capitol Main Street
Change is coming to Ward 5.... Be a Part of It!

Dubbed "one of the hottest up and coming neighborhoods" by the Washington DC Economic Partnership the neighborhoods along North Capitol Street are full of promise and potential. Four commercial corridors-Rhode Island Avenue, New York Avenue, Florida Avenue and North Capitol Street-serve as gateways into the city and offer retail opportunities for residents and commuters. The District's newest Metro station is right around the corner.

Enter North Capitol Main Street-part of the newest "class" of organizations in the DC Main Streets program, which fosters retail opportunities in DC by investing in the District's communities. North Capitol Main Street's mission is to shepherd the growth and transformation of our community by investing in its businesses and attracting new ones. And we'll do it by working with you! Business owners, property owners, residents-we're here to serve your interests by serving the community.

Here's how you can help:

Tell us about your business and your needs. Are you a North Capitol corridor business owner? We need to hear from you to know how to best invest in the community. Contact Executive Director Garry Clark at 202.905.6039 and let us know what's on your mind.
Join a committee. North Capitol Main Street is a volunteer-driven organization. You can be a force for change, meet your neighbors or fellow business owners- and maybe even broaden your horizons and learn a thing or two-by signing up. Ask for more information about the Organization, Design, Economic Restructuring or Promotion committee-whichever is the best fit for you!
Share your expertise. Are you a PR person? An attorney? Accountant? Architect or urban planner? Event planner? Designer? Whatever your profession, your expertise could make a big difference. And who doesn't like a good opportunity to show off their skills, right? Be sure to tell Garry or a Board or committee member what you do and that you'd like to help.
Roll up your sleeves. Some of our projects will require manual labor or extra hands. Sign up to volunteer and we'll call you when we're ready.
Help shape our membership program or become a member. Membership will be offered to businesses, property owners, residents and other interested citizens. You can help us to make the opportunity valuable to you!
Make a tax-deductible gift. North Capitol Main Street, Inc. is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization. Your gift-however big or small-is a welcome contribution in support of this work.
You can help us make a difference.
Thank you!

congratulations IMGOPH!

the Bloomingdale (for now) blog was named one of the ten best local blogs by the Washingtonian.

Cheryl's Gone Reading Series - March 26 - 8pm

Cheryl's Gone Reading Series - March 26 - 8pm

Rod Smith (poetry)
Willie Davis (fiction)
Erik Gamlem (a little of this and that)

Rod Smith is the author of Deed, Music or Honesty, The Good House, Protective Immediacy, and In Memory of My Theories. He edits the journal Aerial, publishes Edge Books, and manages Bridge Street Books, in Washington, DC. He is currently editing The Selected Letters of Robert Creeley with Peter Baker and Kaplan Harris for The University of California Press.

Originally from Whitesburg, Kentucky, Willie Davis has won the Willesden International Short Story Competition judged by Zadie Smith and the Katherine Ann Porter Prize judged by Amy Hempel. His work has appeared in The Guardian and The Kenyon Review, among other places.

Erik Gamlem Has lived and breathed the Virginia air for the last twenty years. When he’s not going mad, or desperately evaluating his last.fm statistics he finds time to write stories, songs and poems. He enjoys nothing more then a giant feast of Indian cuisine accented by a tall bottle of beer.

@ Big Bear Cafe

1st and R NW

Washington, DC

(free)

www.cherylsgone.com

Signs of Spring=New Listings!

Daffodils and low interest rates mean buyers are out looking, and new inventory is popping up. Several new listings in the neighborhood are Open Sunday and can be found by clicking Here.

Why Bloomingdale is a Fascinating, Yet Complex, Micro Real Estate Market

Bloomingdale-Tall House
Originally uploaded by hipchickindc

I could have titled this "Settled Residential Sales Bloomingdale January and February 2009", but that would not have been nearly as exciting, would it?

HERE are the reported settled residential sales for January 2009 for just Bloomingdale.

They are comprised of:
-1 high end condo
-1 foreclosed house
-1 very cute but kind of small house
-1 very large house described as needing work

HERE are the reported settled residential sales for February 2009 for just Bloomingdale, which are similarly diverse in nature.

-1 foreclosed house (bought by an investor who typically does very nice renovations)
-1 foreclosed condo
-2 condo units at The Gage School/Schoolhouse Lofts


In the market or thinking about it? HERE are the scheduled open houses in and around Bloomingdale.

underneath the mews

more catacombs
Originally uploaded by Scenic Artisan

this is a picture of the filtration chambers underneath the field at the old sand filtration site.

Agenda for the Tuesday, 3/17/20009, ANC 5C Meeting

Tuesday, March 17, 2009 All Nations Baptist Church
7:00 –9:15 p.m. North Capitol at Rhode Island Ave, NE


NOTICE AND AGENDA
MARCH 2009 MONTHLY COMMUNITY MEETING

ANC5C citizens are invited to bring suggestions and recommendation for community improvement to the meeting. However, please observe simply courtesies at all times -- wait to be recognized before speaking and do not speak over others or while others have the floor. Please limit your comments to ONE MINUTE so to give others a chance for expression. Following the Commissioners’ comments, members of the community will be recognized to speak. The Sergeant-at-Arms shall maintain public order during the meeting. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Part I: Administrative 7:05 pm
1. Call to Order .……………………………. Commissioner Bonds, Chairman
2. Roll Call ...................…………………….. Commissioner Daneker, Vice Chairman
3. Approval of the Minutes

Part II: Guest Presentations 7:15 pm
1. Mamo Project Request for Extension of PUD (N. Capitol and Florida Ave, NW)
2. Gynecologic Cancer Foundation Half Marathon and 5K Run ….. Jen Hoskote

Part III: Outstanding Business 7:45 pm
Curb Cut Application 1817 First St, NW ……. Commissioner Davenport and Mr. Crowley
Grants Committee Report ………………….. Commissioner Day, Chair
Amateur Kickboxing Grant Vote

Part IV: Workshop on Transportation and Development Issues 8:00 pm
1. Each Commissioner will “Report Out” on a list of transportation/traffic and development/density/location/zoning issues in their Single Member District and ideas/proposals for addressing any concerns. (Following the Commissioners’ remarks, Single-member District residents will be given an opportunity to add an item to the list or to speak on any matter of their interest.)
2. Each speaker in the audience will be allotted I minute maximum to speak.
(Please use your time wisely by making concise and thoughtful statements.)
3. The final list will be submitted to the Mayor and Councilmember for action. Monthly updates will be provided through the life of the issue until resolution. Each resolution will be celebrated at the ANC Community meetings.

Part IV: Updates and Status Reports 8:25 pm
MPD and 5D-CAC Update ……………………….… Robert Brannum, 5D-CAC President

Part V: Committee of the Whole Executive Session 8:35 pm
This portion of the meeting is reserved for COMMISSION ACTION ONLY; therefore audience comments will not be entertained. The audience is asked to hold their comments and share them with their Single Member District Representative at the conclusion of the meeting. Thanks again for your cooperation.

Response to ANC Concerns …………………………………………………….
Treasurer’s Report …………………………………. Commissioners Farmer-Allen and Day
Pay Bills …………………………………………………………………………….

Meeting Adjourned

North Cap Main Streets

"North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Launch"

Thursday, March 26, 2009 --From 6 PM - 8 PM

LOCATION: 1703 North Capitol St., NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Grand Opening theme "Call To Service"

Come celebrate with the commercial business community and interested residents, as NCMS kicks off its effort to revitalize and sustain the North Capitol Neighborhood Commercial Corridor. There will be refreshments, a message from our Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas, Jr., At-Large Councilmember Kwame Brown, and NCMS, Inc. President, Mrs. Patricia Mitchell. Also opportunities for sponsorship, membership and an overall networking occasion!

Snowy Eckington

Snowy Eckington
Originally uploaded by Kate Abigail

last weeks picture.

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 03/08/2009

Sunday Open Houses can be found by clicking here.

new york pizza and mexican.

someone on the eckington listserve mentioned that the old KFC at North Cap and Florida will become a "New York Pizza"

I've not tried them before, but there's one on Bladensburg NE and one on Pennsylvania Avenue SE for anyone interested.


Last night I tried to convince the owners of La Lomitas to open a place on North Capitol. They're looking to open a new location so if you go there, tell them to come to our neighborhood!

i always go to the one near potomac avenue metro ( a tradition since i moved to dc) but they have a location on the 300 block of penn, and a place on Mass Ave NE called La Loma.

need a place to grow your vegetables?

Apartment Therapy has a post about Sharing Backyards DC. this is a pretty terrific idea, so i wanted to pass it along.

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for 3/1/2009

I'm pleased to report that last week's price reduction and Open House for 70 Rhode Island Ave NW #202 resulted in a contract. Hopefully, we'll have another new neighbor soon.

Here are the Open Houses for Sunday 1 March. There's a new listing on Adams that is described as fully renovated.

7th Street Garden has been renamed Common Good City Farm!

Good day all!
First off, if you haven't heard yet, the 7th Street Garden has been renamed Common Good City Farm! Stay tuned to www.commongoodcityfarm.org for upcoming events, workshops, and information.

And second, please come out to the new site at 3rd and V Streets, NW this Saturday 11am - 1pm. We'll be spreading soil, lasagna gardening, tilling and more! Work gloves and tools will be provided. Bring water to drink and a snack if you'll need one. Email info@ CommonGoodCityFarm.org with any questions. (*Please note* Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult.)
Stay warm, see you soon,
Liz, Susan and Common Good Staff

In recognition of Black History Month, the Bloomingdale Civic Association, and the Bates Area Civic Association cordially invite you to the
First Annual A-W-E Festival
a celebration of Artists Writers, and Entertainers.

St. George's Episcopal Church
160 U St NW
Saturday, February 28, 2009
1:00 pm to 4:00 pm

The afternoon program will include award winning photographer, Jason Miccolo Johnson, author, Natalie Hopkinson, artist, Sylvia Jackson, classical vocalist, Dimery Mowery, story-teller, Jennifer Ashburn, and musicians James McKinnery and Will Smith. Importantly, several of the participants in the program have roots in the surrounding community. St. George's was asked to partner with these indigenous community organizations on this project because of the welcoming spirit St. George's exhibits and the outreach it continues to extend to the residents of the neighborhood. --- Bloomimgdale and Bates Civic Association Presidents: Cassandra Costley, and James Berry, respectively.

Cheryl's Gone Reading Series February 26 - 8PM

Cheryl's Gone Reading Series
February 26 - 8PM

Ryan Walker (poetry)
Sara Hov (fiction)
Zein El-Amine (poetry)
Spoonboy (music)

Big Bear Cafe
1st & R Streets NW
Washington, DC
**FREE**

Ryan Walker has lived and worked in Washington, DC since 1999. He enjoys latin america, partying, coffee and light. He blogs at www.bathybius.com.

Zein El-Amine was born and raised in Lebanon. He came to the US in the Late 80’s and worked for 20 years as a Civil Engineer. He quit engineering to pursue his writing. He is now finishing his MFA in poetry and working as Assistant Director to the Writers’ House where he teaches creative writing and leads Study Abroad literary trips to Egypt. He is a founding member and a frequent contributor to the award winning LEFT TURN magazine where his contributions include lead editorials; articles on the prison industrial complex, gentrification and education; and book and movie reviews. His poems have been published by Beltway Quarterly, DC Poets Against the War Anthology, Penumbra, GYST, and Joybringer. He has won the Tallahassee Writers’ Association Annual Poetry and Haiku Contest.

Sara Hov writes kick-ass fiction and received her MFA from George Mason University in 2008, & she writes good po etry too. (Perhaps I'll have a more formal bio for her posted to the website soon...)

Spoonboy plays guitar and sings in the Max Levine Ensemble, a DC-based punk band who play poppy, punky songs with insightful and political lyrics. He’s released a solo CD, “I Love You, This Is a Robbery”, on Plan-It-X records, and is an active force in the local music scene.

www.cherylsgone.com

Le Droit Park House on Curb Appeal

a rowhouse in Le Droit gets a facelift

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 02/22/2009

The list of Open Houses scheduled in and around the neighborhood for Sunday can be found here.

I'd like to specifically mention two. One is my listing, and I must say, wholeheartedly, that this is a great deal! I have a loft-style true one bedroom listed in The Providence at 70 Rhode Island Ave NW for $229,900. It will be open from 1-4pm on Sunday. This awesome unit features a fireplace, a spacious kitchen with granite counters, washer/dryer in the unit, and loads of natural light. For pics, click on the link above and click the camera icon at the top left of the 70 Rhode Island Ave listing.

I'd also like to mention a For Sale by Owner Open House that isn't in the list scheduled through MRIS. 125 Randolph Place NW will be held open from 1-4pm on Sunday. It is a fabulous full renovation by an architect. It has 5 bedrooms total and 3.5 baths. Priced at $599,000., it is really worth checking out.

pothole

raw_2009-01_193_web
Originally uploaded by bob howl

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 02/15/2009

Click here to see the real estate open houses scheduled for Sunday in and around the neighborhood.

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for Sunday 02/08/09

Open Houses in and around the area can be found by clicking here.

The 2nd Annual Urban Gardening Forum.

Rooting DC 2009. The 2nd Annual Urban Gardening Forum.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2009

Who: Are you a community gardener in Washington, DC? A teacher with a schoolyard garden? A member of a garden club or block club interested in beautifying your neighborhood? Involved with a non-profit leading a gardening program? Or, are you interested to get involved with such community projects? If so, you are invited to attend this forum designed to bring DC Gardeners together to reconnect. Join us to share resources and foster partnerships between those who are working towards common goals of a greener, healthier DC!

REGISTER here. http://www.rootingdc.org/

Keep Rooting DC Free: DONATE here. http://www.rootingdc.org/donate

VOLUNTEER! Contact Liz Falk at 7thStreetGarden@gmail.com to help either the weeks prior to the event and/or during.

Where: At the beautiful and historic Carnegie Library, 801 K Street NW.

When: 10 am - 4pm, a light lunch will be provided.

How Much: Just like last year, this event will be FREE and open to the public!

Sisters Pizza and Mussels

Sisters Pizza and Mussels in NoMa is open and apparently they deliver.

I used to actually go to Lake Hopatcong all the time as a kid, so may just as well have eaten at the place that inspired the owners. Pizza and Mussel places are pretty common in Northern New Jersey.

anyone been yet?
i can't find a phone number, but they are located at 2nd and n NE.

the white and colored playground

crazy thing to call a playground, huh?
according to some posts over at the truxton circle discussion board, thats what the playground at First and New York avenue NW is called.

commenter joycepaul said

According to documents at the MLK Washingtonian, "In 1911 Congress created the Public Playground Department. In July 1951, the Recreation Board voted to change the NY Avenue Playground from a white only to a bi-racial use playground, staffed by the negro division." This was the first playground staffed by the negro division. Neighbors soon designated and began refering to the playground as the White and Colored playground. African American families came from all over the DC area to utilize this facility along with Caucasian family as a intergrated place where all children could play and have fun. Activities were planned for the whole family and this facility won numerous awards and competitions.






reading that reminded me of a conversation i had a a few years ago.

On the 50th anniversary of brown vs board of education, a neighbor of mine, Columbus Rich was interviewed ( and appeared on the cover !) for Washingtonian Magazine. Here's his part in the article:

Columbus Rich, 66, a retired manager for the National Education Association, moved to the Bloomingdale neighborhood near DC's whites-only McKinley Tech High School in 1949, when he was 11.

McKinley's field was beautiful. There was a guy who took care of it named Jessie. We'd go over there to play baseball, and Jessie would come out and run us off.

We got to the point where we said, "Let's stop running away. Let's just all spread out and let Jessie chase us." So Jessie came out: "You get off this field"--he had a very heavy German accent. He'd bring the hose and shoot water at us, and we'd scatter. We figured he wasn't going to catch all of us.


Columbus Rich was a 1957 graduate of McKinley Tech.

Interestingly enough, the article mentions Sidwell Friends School.

The Rest of the article can be seen HERE

Selections From the Barnett-Aden Collection: A Homecoming Celebration

2 mentions in the post about the Barnett-Aden Collection

HERE and HERE.



The Barnett Aden Gallery, the first privately owned black gallery in the United States and one of Washington, DC's principal art galleries, was founded in 1943 by James Vernon Herring (1897-1969) and Alonzo Aden (1906-1961).


more info about the gallery on cultural tourism dc

Free Diapers and Baby Formula for Working Parents -

Free Diapers and Baby Formula for Working Parents - 2/12/2009 - 4pm-7pm



FAMILY AND CHILD SERVICES OF WASHINGTON DC, INC
PRESENTS
BABY BASICS
BABY BASICS is a Program to provide free diapers and/or formula to working low-income families who are in need but do not qualify for state or federal assistance
On February 12, 2009 from 4pm to 7pm
Diapers and Infant Formula will be distributed to eligible families.
Assistance is based on the following requirements:
· DC Residency
· At least one working parent/guardian
· Family is NOT receiving federal or DC assistance (i.e. Medicaid, TANF, Food Stamps)
· Family meets income requirements (based on WIC guidelines)
· Child is under 3 years old
As parents pick up the diapers and formula they will receive also receive "Helpful Hints for Parenting" information.
Family and Child Services is located at:
1509 16th Street, NW
For more information / to set-up appointment, Call:
Ann McCombs (202) 289-1510 ext. 1180
(Please leave a message if no one is available to assist you immediately. They will call you back to do a phone in-take) ****Parents will be asked to sign a brief form indicating that they meet the stated criteria. Pay stub, Proof of DC residency and Picture ID will be required.*** *

seems the firehouse project might not be completely dead

Twyla Garrett, the restaurateur of the project, might still make a go of it......

i sure do hope -something- happens there.
oh .. and i saw people working on it today.....

Community Presentation on the Development of the McMillan Sand Filtration Site

The Neighborhoods of EYA and Jair Lynch Development Partners.

WARD 5 COUNCILMEMBER HARRY “TOMMY” THOMAS, JR.,
THE DEPUTY MAYOR FOR PLANNING & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT, THE MCMILLAN ADVISORY GROUP, &
VISION MCMILLAN PARTNERS

Invite You To A

Community Presentation on
the Development of the
McMillan Sand Filtration Site

Saturday, February 7, 2009
10:00am to 12:00pm
Trinity University Social Hall
125 Michigan Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20017

Vision McMillan Partners, the development team for the site, includes:

• EYA
• Jair Lynch Development Partners
• StreetSense
• The Alexander Company
• Smoot & Urban Service Systems Corporation


A TOWN HALL MEETING TO PRESENT CONCEPT PLANS FOR THE SITE, BASED ON PRIOR COMMUNITY AND DISTRICT FEEDBACK AND FEEDBACK FROM THE COMMUNITY MEETING ON DECEMBER 13TH.

WE ENCOURAGE STRONG ATTENDANCE AND WANT TO SEE YOU THERE!

Discussion Topics will include:

• Presentation of Revised Concept Plans Based on Feedback from the December 13th Community Meeting at Trinity - Will include Open Space, Historic Preservation, Mixed-Income & Multi-Generational Housing, Community Serving Retail and Restaurants, Job Creating Office Space, Hospitality, and Community, Education, and Cultural Space

• Key Community Issues - Context and Density, Traffic/Smart Growth, Infrastructure, Community Benefits, LSDBE Participation, Job Creation, Sustainable/Green Development, and Other Community Issues


Light Food and Parking Provided

For More Information, Contact:
Vicky Chambers, Office of CM Thomas, at 202- 727- 8204
John Basile, EYA, at 301- 634- 8600

overrun with drunks and homeless guys

"overrun with drunks and homeless guys"
pennywise

commenting about bloomingdale over at the Prince of Petworth Blog on a post about the firehouse

over at DCists take on the project we have this gem by "northcap" :
In order to succeed, a bar in Bloomingdale needs to have the following:

1. Beer
2. Chairs (optional?)

Get Involved!

Do you have ideas for supporting local businesses or attracting new ones? What types of businesses would you like to see develop in the area?

Get involved and have a say! Join us for an introductory meeting to learn about committees and opportunities to volunteer with North Capitol Main Street, Inc.(www.ncmsinc.org).

Goals for this organization include:

*To help existing businesses adapt or expand to meet changing markets; and attract new businesses to provide a balanced mix of goods and services

*To create clean, attractive streetscapes that invite commercial activity and promote pedestrian foot traffic

*To increase public safety along the corridor

*To enhance the physical character and quality of the NCMS, Inc. area, with particular emphasis on preserving its Victorian-era buildings

*To generate a sense of spirit and increased activity along North Capitol Street and in the Bloomingdale Business District.

The meeting is planned for Thursday February 5th, 2009 from 7pm-8:30pm at the NCMS office, located at 1703 North Capitol Street NE, WDC 20002. For more information, e-mail Garry Clark, NCMS' Executive Director at gclark @ ncmsinc.org.

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for 02/01/2009

Have some time before your Superbowl plans? Check out some neighborhood open houses.

photo_2006-04_250_web

photo_2006-04_250_web
Originally uploaded by bob howl

most recent addition to the bloomingdale photo pool.

Old Firehouse for Sale- updated.

ec-12. nope.
martini 2020. nope.

but now its for sale


1626 North Capitol Street NW, Washington DC 20002
Map
$1,500,000

Incredible space! Approx 12,000+ sq ft. This was once the old fire house. Total renovation needed. The first floor is restricted for RESTAURANT use only! All plat, plans, drawings convey with this property. Please call for appt.


i did see a new sign on the old savemore grocery store.
i guess that might be opening soon.

From the eckington yahoo group:
I would like to give the neighborhood an update on the Firehouse restaurant project. Since many people joined this list midstream I will backtrack a little so everyone is on the same page.



Several years ago Nextgen Development was awarded the Firehouse via RFP where we were to be the developer and Mike Benson (operator of St Ex bar and café) would be the operator. Near the end of a year planning stage Mike Benson and his partners dropped out for personal reasons. Over the next 14 Months we met with approximate 20+ qualified operators and while there was interest from many operators, most were frankly afraid to take the chance of opening a restaurant in an untested neighborhood. Near the end of the 14 months we met Twyla Garett of Martini 2020 who upon looking at the site and the neighborhood potential rapidly moved forward to commit to the project. Nextgen proceeded to complete the acquisition and moved forward on the project. Unfortunately for Nextgen Twyla signed that agreement just as the financial mess hit nationwide. As a result four or five months after she signed the agreement the financing she had lined up disappeared and she defaulted on her agreement.



In spite of that default Nextgen made the decision to move forward on the project while we looked for a new operator. We committed to spending between $500,000 and $750,000 of our own funds while we searched for a new operator. (Note: this does not include the $100,000 in interest payments we have made to date while we carry this project) The work performed to date on the site is as follows:



95% completion of the exterior building restoration.

We addressed some environmental issues we became aware of

We completed 90% of the non-structural demo required for the project

We spent $250+k completing the architectural and structural plans.

We initiated structural stabilization of the building

Bid out most aspects of the critical systems so we could move quickly when we find the right operator.



During the time we were doing the above work we have continued to search for operators. While we have gotten close to signing a new operator over 7 times, each time something would surface near the completion of the deal that undid it. I will share two such situations here. One operator we found was in a financial cash position to move forward however one of the conditions they were looking for some nominal help from the city for their first 5 years of operation to make their numbers work.. Unfortunately while we had every indication from the city that this would happen (including legislation being introduced to that effect) however the deteriorating local economy killed the city’s ability to deliver that help in fiscal 2008 and that deal died. Subsequent to that opportunity collapsing we signed a letter of intent with another operator, and started working through the operating agreement, however 1 week after we signed that agreement their financing partner collapsed. (Their financing partner was Lehman Brothers)



During the time we have been have been marketing the space we have gotten a number of operators that expressed interest only if they could purchase the building as part of the transaction. In the past we declined to consider that because we wanted to make sure that we could fulfill our commitment to the community of delivering a restaurant on the first level of the building.



After discussion with several bankers regarding how restaurants are currently being financed we have come to realize that in today’s financial instability that the only likely way that a restaurant will get financing on this type project is if they use the building as collateral to complete the build out. While this was not true in the past the problems banks are having has resulted in it being nearly impossible for any other option.



To that end we have changed our marketing strategy to bring this project to market. Shortly you will see a lease/sale sign appear on the building. This is also being placed in Co-star, Loop net as well as the MLS as a sale/lease. The hope is to bring in an operator that previously might have rejected it because they could not lock in their costs by purchasing part or majority ownership of the project at the time they build-out the restaurant. It may be that we may just become general contractor on this project. Our intent is to still to find a way in spite of the financial environment to try to move this project forward. We are trying to think outside the box to keep this process moving. We have also reached out to the Council members’ office for advice/options also. Thank you for your understanding and patience.



Brian Brown

next meeting about old sand filtration site

seems the meeting wasnt last weekend........


The Neighborhoods of EYA and Jair Lynch Development Partners.

WARD 5 COUNCILMEMBER HARRY “TOMMY” THOMAS, JR.,
THE DEPUTY MAYOR FOR PLANNING & ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT, THE MCMILLAN ADVISORY GROUP, &
VISION MCMILLAN PARTNERS

Invite You To A

Community Presentation on
the Development of the
McMillan Sand Filtration Site

Saturday, February 7, 2009
10:00am to 12:00pm
Trinity University Social Hall
125 Michigan Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20017

Vision McMillan Partners, the development team for the site, includes:

• EYA
• Jair Lynch Development Partners
• StreetSense
• The Alexander Company
• Smoot & Urban Service Systems Corporation


A TOWN HALL MEETING TO PRESENT CONCEPT PLANS FOR THE SITE, BASED ON PRIOR COMMUNITY AND DISTRICT FEEDBACK AND FEEDBACK FROM THE COMMUNITY MEETING ON DECEMBER 13TH.

WE ENCOURAGE STRONG ATTENDANCE AND WANT TO SEE YOU THERE!

Discussion Topics will include:

• Presentation of Revised Concept Plans Based on Feedback from the December 13th Community Meeting at Trinity - Will include Open Space, Historic Preservation, Mixed-Income & Multi-Generational Housing, Community Serving Retail and Restaurants, Job Creating Office Space, Hospitality, and Community, Education, and Cultural Space

• Key Community Issues - Context and Density, Traffic/Smart Growth, Infrastructure, Community Benefits, LSDBE Participation, Job Creation, Sustainable/Green Development, and Other Community Issues


Light Food and Parking Provided

For More Information, Contact:
Vicky Chambers, Office of CM Thomas, at 202- 727- 8204
John Basile, EYA, at 301- 634- 8600

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for 01/25/2009

Open Houses in the area scheduled for Sunday 1/25/09 can be found here.

donate clothes to help the family displaced by fire in bloomingdale this morning

this is from anc 5C-03 commish stu davenport:
Neighbors-

This morning there were 2 large fires in our neighborhood where the families lost almost everything.

I just spoke with Kim Stancil from 11 Randolph NW, and she and her 5 children (three of whom are students at Emery Elementary) were left with nothing but the clothing on their backs.

Most immediately Ms. Stancil and her family need clothes and funds to provide for essential needs. They have housing for the next 3 days through the Red Cross, and she is working with Ted McGinn and Stacy Jackson from Emery to get local and government help. She is also reaching out to local churches and the Ecumenical Council.

I am writing to ask for immediate help from the community.


1. Priority is Clothing
Boy 17 - Size 32W/30L pants, Med Shirt
Girl 15 - Size 16 Pants, 2XL Shirt
Girl 11 - Size 8 Pants, L Shirt
Boy 5 - Size 7 pants, Men's Med Shirt
Boy 4 - Size 6 pants, 6 shirt

2. Financial Assistance
Checks can be made payable to: Ms. Kim Stancil

All items can be left ( or shipped) at the main office of Emery Elementary at 1720 1st Street, NE 20002 (202)576-6034
or the Big Bear Cafe at 1700 1st Street, NW 20001


Thank you all for your generosity and concern.


-Stuart


Stuart Davenport
Commissioner
ANC 5C-03

there were two fires this morning in bloomingdale. sadly, there was one fatality.

article here

a blurb on washingtonpost.com

Inauguration 2009!

I'm wondering if (this is for you, IMGoph) Bloomingdales would be interested in convening and walking en masse to the Mall on Tuesday? I was thinking we could meet in front of Big Bear and make a festive trek together.

The big question seems to be, "what time to get there?" The reports are that, even for those with tickets, the Mall will be closed off when capacity is reached. This could happen early, so I'm planning to head down in the morning.

Thoughts?

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 01/18/2009

Despite the verrrry cold temperatures (I'm a northern transplant but have become accustomed to wimpy Washington weather), several agents will be braving it to provide public showing opportunites as seen here.

On other neighborhood real estate news, you may recall a post from a while back about those yellow signs announcing 30+ DC properties going to auction. You can see additional information that I posted last week at Prince of Petworth.

News from NoMa

info from the NoMa BID JANUARY 2009 NEWSLETTER


a restaurant?
NoMa's Courtyard will premiere Marriot's new Central Bistro concept in DC. The lobby design includes a full kitchen with sit-down meal service that is open to the public, as well as grab-and-go options and comfortable lounge seating where guests can catch up on email or have informal meetings with friends or colleagues. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, printers, fax machines, computers, and "media pods" for private meetings or TV viewing, library, and exercise room. Redesigned guest rooms offer flat-panel televisions, large work desks, ergonomic chairs, and king-size beds with plush mattresses, rich linens, and fluffy pillows.

places to grab food
NoMa will soon have two exciting new eateries. Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli and Sister’s Pizza & Mussels will open by the end of the month in the ATF Retail Building just outside the New York Avenue Metro station at 2nd and N Street, N.E. The restaurants will serve customers from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week, and offer delivery service to nearby homes and businesses. They join Pound Coffee and Five Guys Burgers & Fries, which opened in 2008.

Heidi’s Brooklyn Deli features such deli favorites as pastrami, corned beef, lox, Reubens, cheesesteaks, roast beef, turkey, and BLT, along with fresh salads, wraps, soups, healthy smoothies, breakfast selections, cheesecake, and other treats. Sister’s Pizza & Mussels, named after founder Steve Naples’ two pizza-loving daughters, specializes in New Jersey-style pizza, calzones, jumbo wings, steamed mussels with various sauces, steamed clams, fried calamari, and even a pizza with mussels and other seafood toppings.

moving buildings

DCMUD has a story about moving an historic building to make room for the large St. Martins low income housing project

mugging at 3rd and r

PoP has a post about a mugging at 3rd and R nw

inauguration day info

for detailed information about driving and walking and security perimeters and such look here

strippers

IMG_4750
Originally uploaded by Scenic Artisan

i have a lot of painted wood in my house that i'd like to strip. these details were easily removable and i used a heat gun on them.
having once had a house burn down that left me homeless for three months ( during that blizzard of 1996.. yeah it freakin sucked.) , i'm totally paranoid about heat gunning piece in place. and i dont want to remove all my trim to do this.

i've used chemical strippers in a former job while refinishing furniture, but i'm not a huge fan of toxins, so i won't revisit that.

i thought i'd try this thing out:

The Silent Paint Remover™ is a high quality tool for removing paint, varnish, adhesive, silicone caulk etc. The tool uses infrared heat to soften paint and varnish adhesive, silicone caulk etc.
more info here:
http://www.silentpaintremover.com/index.htm

any one have one ( that i could borrow???) or use one? what did you think?

old photo

from here

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 01/11/2009

Finally, some good Open House activity! (Of course, next weekend will be a bust again, open house-wise anyway, although I get to take a few days off).

I have two listings open, 70 Rhode Island Ave NW unit 202 and 1605 7th St NW unit 6, on Sunday from 1-4, both under $300,000. The complete list is here.

photo_2007-03_156_enh

photo_2007-03_156_enh
Originally uploaded by alive world runners

Detailed Inauguration Traffic, Parking, and Pedestrian Information

Heres a Detailed Inauguration Traffic, Parking, and Pedestrian Information POST

North Capitol Street Urban Design & Transportation Study * Now with location

The Office of Planning and the District Department of Transportation, in coordination with the National Capitol Planning Commission (NCPC), will conduct an urban design and transportation study of North Capitol Street from Michigan Avenue to Hawaii Avenue, NE , and Irving Street/Michigan Avenue from First Street NW to their point of union, approximately one block east of North Capitol Street .

The purpose of the study is to:

1. Develop strategies to improve the gateway qualities of North Capitol Street by including civic spaces, memorials, and enhancing the public streetscapes.
2. Explore alternative intersection configurations for the cloverleaf at Irving and North Capitol Streets and automobile ramps at Michigan and Irving .
3. Develop recommendations for improving safety, connectivity and transportation operations.

The neighborhoods that are included in or are adjacent to this area are: McMillan Sand Filtration site, Washington Hospital Center, Armed Forces Retirement Home, Brookland, Petworth, Eckington, Parkview and Bloomingdale.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009
6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Pryzbyla Center
Catholic University of America
Great Room A





North Capitol Street Urban Design & Transportation Study
Public Meeting #1

a dream of a metro stop in bloomingdale

Greater Greater Washington Proposes a North Capitol Red Line branch


though over at DCist Kriston Capps posits
Columbia Heights ought to be at the center of a ring connecting Adams Morgan, Bloomingdale, and H Street NE. Come to think of it, this would invariably come to be known as the Drunk Line.

i'm no urban planner, but i do loves trains and buses to get around town. to me, the more interconnectedness the better.

blue skies

Neighborhood 007
Originally uploaded by hipchickindc

smart bike

Walking by 7th and T street NW, i noticed a smartbike depot. walking distance from here, so thats cool.

anyone use it?

Bates Area Civic Association, Inc.

MONTHLY MEETING NOTICE




The agenda for this meeting will be largely consumed by a planning session for 2009. Please bring your
ideas of speakers, projects and programs
that you would like to see the BACA
sponsor during this calendar year.


Monday, January 5, 2009
Mount Sinai Baptist Church
3rd and Q Streets, N.W.
Rooms 1 and 2
7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

For more information regarding the meeting and/or the Association,
contact J. Berry at (202) 387-8520 or at jamojam@msn.com.


Community Update


As we enter into 2009, please know that the Bates Area Civic Association, Inc. acknowledges and sincerely appreciates the contribution of each and every resident to make and keep our community a clean, safe and productive place in which to live, work, worship and rear our children. Indeed, it is our hope that 2009 will be the best year ever for you and your family members.

Holiday Tree Collection Reminder: January 2-17, 2009:
Residents who receive DC trash collection service are encouraged to place holiday trees and other greenery in curbside tree boxes—without ornaments or tinsel—by January 2, 2009. Trees will be picked up during a special two-week collection from January 2 thru 17, 2009. Trees not collected by January 17th should be placed with your regular trash. DPW will collect the trees along with the regular trash, as truck space permits over the following weeks. Residents can also bring trees to the Fort Totten Transfer Station weekdays, between the hours of 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm, and on Saturdays, from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm, for free tree chipping. Trees collected after January 17th will not be recycled.

Inauguration 2009!
As you know, former Senator Barack Obama will be sworn-in as the 44th President of the United States on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. By conservative estimates, in excess of 4 million visitors are expected to descend upon the District of Columbia to partake in several days of inaugural activities. Given our proximity to the U.S. Capitol and other historic locations that will certainly attract huge crowds of visitors, we thought it particularly significant to let you know that the District of Columbia has a 2009 Presidential Inauguration website that “will assist you in finding information about the events surrounding the 56th Presidential Inauguration, including lodging information, transportation, security measures and closures.” For those of you who have internet capability, this site has all types of information about Inauguration 2009 that you will likely find to be valuable. The website address is http://inauguration.dc.gov. We strongly encourage you to pass this information along to your neighbors and friends in the community. Indeed, having an idea of what the city government is doing to prepare for this historic occasion should give you comfort as well as help you and yours to better prepare.

A Special Appeal to Residents of the Bates Area:
We are trying to reach out to as many residents as is possible to come to Monday’s meeting of the BACA. We will use this first meeting of 2009 to set an agenda for organizing ways to act on issues that we are confronted with, such as, but certainly not limited to –
Crime and violence on our neighbors and in our community,
Neighborhood cleanliness and beautification,
Residential Parking Permit Program,
Operation and utilization of charter school facilities,
Traffic calming on our streets, and
Economic development opportunities for North Capitol Street and our other commercial corridors.
We particularly need to hear from those of you who are new to the community and those who have never attended a civic association meeting in the past. Again, whatever your interest or point of view, we would like for your voice to be heard at the meeting, along with a recommendation as to what you believe we can do as a community to squarely address these concerns. The only way that we will make lasting inroads into these problems is for neighbors to come together to address them. You are urged to come to the meeting on Monday and share your thoughts and recommendations!

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for 1/4/2009

No opens posted for Bloomingdale for this Sunday but a few in nearby Brookland and Eckington can be found here.

Although there aren't any opens scheduled through the MLS, there may well be signs around the neighborhood.

I expect next weekend to be a bit more active for open houses, though, as agents are probably waiting for people to settle in after the holidays.

Washington Post Column on Eckington

"An Urban Neighborhood on the Rise"
By Mary Ellen Slayter
Special to The Washington Post
Saturday, January 3, 2009; Page F01


"Those who choose to make Eckington their home say they are drawn by a diverse, friendly community, the solid housing stock and myriad transportation options. "



also included:

BOUNDARIES: Rhode Island Avenue to the north, Florida Avenue to the south, North Capitol Street to the west and Washington Metro's Brentwood Yard to the east

SCHOOLS: Emery Elementary, J.F. Cook Elementary, Shaw Junior High, Dunbar Senior High, McKinley High

HOME SALES: In the past 12 months, 19 condos sold, from $189,000 to $519,000, with a median of $305,000, according to Angela Jones of Long and Foster. There were 59 houses sold, from $167,000 to $599,000, with a median of $355,000. There are 38 houses listed for sale, priced from $127,000 to $719,000. Sixteen condos are listed, from $199,742 to $447,000.

WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE: Big Bear Cafe, Windows Cafe, Howard University, Catholic University, New York Avenue and Rhode Island Avenue Metro stations, Sirius XM Satellite Radio, many corner convenience stores

WITHIN 15 MINUTES BY CAR: In light traffic, U Street NW corridor, Logan Circle, Brookland, U.S. Capitol, downtown Washington

heres the kind of press Bloomingdales been getting recently.

or the gentrification type posts

Ward 5 Business Council Establishes Tawana Gantt Fund to Assist Victims and Survivors of Jackson Street, NE Fire

Office of Ward 5 Councilmember Harry "Tommy" Thomas, Jr.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 2, 2009

Contact:

Vicky Leonard-Chambers
202. 727. 8204 (desk)
202. 683. 9053 (cell)
vleonardchambers @ dccouncil.us


Ward 5 Business Council Establishes Tawana Gantt Fund
to Assist Victims and Survivors of Jackson Street, NE Fire

Washington DC - At the request ofWard 5 Councilmember Harry "Tommy" Thomas, Jr., the Ward 5 Business Council has established the Tawana Gantt Fund at Cardinal Bank to assist with funeral arrangements for Tawana Gantt and the five other family members who perished with her in the January 1, 2009 Jackson Street, NE house fire: Ms. Gantt's daughter, Kaniya, age four; Oscar Wilson III, age 11; Joseph Wilson, age 10; Keith Nelson, age 23; and Charles Smith, age 72.

Ms. Gantt, 22, was a dedicated employee in the office of Councilmember Thomas where she worked on constituent service and Ward 5 Business Council issues.

Check may be made payable to the Tawana Gantt Fund and sent to:

Tawana Gantt Fund
c/o Ward 5 Business Council
PO Box 90918
Washington, DC 20090

Funeral arrangements will be forthcoming.

"Tawana was a hard worker," said Councilmember Thomas. "She had an incredibly cheerful, positive attitude and willingness to lend a hand wherever and whenever needed. We will all miss her."

PSA: North Capitol Street Urban Design & Transportation Study

North Capitol Street Urban Design & Transportation Study

Public Meeting #1



The Office of Planning and the District Department of Transportation, in coordination with the National Capitol Planning Commission (NCPC), will conduct an urban design and transportation study of North Capitol Street from Michigan Avenue to Hawaii Avenue, NE, and Irving Street/Michigan Avenue from First Street NW to their point of union, approximately one block east of North Capitol Street.



The purpose of the study is to:

1. Develop strategies to improve the gateway qualities of North Capitol Street by including civic spaces, memorials, and enhancing the public streetscapes.

2. Explore alternative intersection configurations for the cloverleaf at Irving and North Capitol Streets and automobile ramps at Michigan and Irving.

3. Develop recommendations for improving safety, connectivity and transportation operations.



The neighborhoods that are included in or are adjacent to this area are: McMillan Sand Filtration site, Washington Hospital Center, Armed Forces Retirement Home, Brookland, Petworth, Eckington, Parkview and Bloomingdale.



Tuesday, January 13, 2009

6:30 pm to 8:00 pm

Location to Be Determined



For information on the North Capitol Street Urban Design & Transportation Study contact Howard Ways, DC Office of Planning, by phone at (202) 741-5219, or by email at howard.ways@dc.gov.





H



Howard Ways, AICP

Special Assistant

DC Office of Planning

801 N. Capitol Street, NE

Suite 400

Washington, DC 20002

ph 202-741-5219

fax 202-442-7638

Howard.Ways@dc.gov

happy new year bloomingdale

may your year be peaceful, safe, bountiful and beautiful.

bloomingdale, north capitol, first street, and nearby recently

-well, despite the negative words about NWL, i scored some great stuff quite cheaply today. the place is still open if you're in need of junk for your house, or the VHS of OZ or Babar. or Spawn III

-Theres a new Dry Cleaners on North Capitol.
Apple Cleaner & Alteration
202-232-3636
1410 North Capitol
M-F: 7:30 - 6:30
Sat 8:30-5

-The old Savemore has had extensive work done on the inside.
anyone know whats going on?

-I havent seen any progress on Martini 2020.

- whats going on with the place on north cap at r nw? wasnt it supposed to be a stereo place?

- Seems the video store on North Cap has clothing too. i havent been in but theres clothes in the window.

-five guys is open way over in NoMa

-the building that will have the harris teeter over at first and m is moving along quickly.

- the lot at florida and north cap is all fenced off still.

- the old pizza place ( the formstone building) on north cap and florida is all fixed up


- the yoga studio is up and running, but whats going in next door?

- Baraki? any news or progress? i heard the alcohol licence was approved but missed all the details. the last few months have been pretty hectic for me.

- that said, thanks for coming out to the bloomingdale holiday market! i was trying to plan a concurrent show at 87 florida, but i just didnt have the time. maybe next year.

- theres a for sale sign on the ice place on florida. its a huge lot and space and its street frontage sucks right now, but damn, i hate seeing that kind of stuff. we've still got plenty of empty buildings. and i've gotten kegs and ice there before and i prolly will again.

-i see that rhode island avenue is slated to be getting bus improvements. Something they're calling Metro Extra. personally, i'd love to see the 98 bus go all the way down florida avenue to the Atlas. Speaking of Metro, they now have an online Next Train service . what happened to Next Bus? i used that frequently.

-I'm pretty certain that the mcmillan development will make traffic along first street pretty crazy. too bad they couldnt include a Millennium Wheel, or balloon rides, or some other cool attraction that isnt a ritas water ice or maggie moo's. not that i wouldn't frequent either.

- i recently noticed on my house title that my property sits on Ray E. Middaugh's subdivision. thought that was kinda interesting. seems that dude also developed a lot of parcels in Woodley Park.

anything else going on or that you're thinking about in the area?

No drillin at McMillan

a new blog about the old sand filtration site
No drillin at McMillan

we "treat everyone like a Michelle Obama.""

article about Michelle Obamas Hair with quotes by Soul Day Spa Owner

Neighborhood 010

Neighborhood 010
Originally uploaded by hipchickindc

photos from the old sand filtration plant

a neighbor reminded me of a photoset she took of the old sand filtration site. i wanted to share them:


the site is fascinating and it won't be around much longer, so check out the pictures!

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale this week and more!

'Tis the weekend before Christmas, so the Open House list is short, but here it is.

Here's the "and more":
There are numerous signs on vacant properties around the city, with several in the immediate area, announcing the January 30th, 2009 auction of more than 30 properties. Here's what is currently on the list. I will post more information as it becomes available.

bloomingdale holiday arts market tomorrow

Last minute shopping?

Bloomingdale Holiday Arts Market
Saturday
4-9 PM
Big Bear Cafe
First and R streets NW @ Florida.


Our vendor list includes:
Andrea Haffner :: http://andreahaffner.com

De*Nada Design :: http://denadadesign.com

Sean Hennessey :: http://dcsean.com

goshdarnknit :: http://shoofly.etsy.com

Kristina Bilonick :: http://kristinabilonick.com

Neighborhood Fiber Co :: http://www.neighborhoodfiberco.com

Realm Jewelry :: http://www.realmbyjessewalker.com

Tiger Flight :: http://tr.im/tigerflight

We got mentioned on dcist's arts agenda:

http://dcist.com/2008/12/18/arts_agenda_77.php

and also the Washingtonian:

http://www.washingtonian.com/blogarticles/Style/shoparound/10280.html

Unlike last year, the cafe will be remain open serving coffees and tea, and of course, hot cider!

Also!

come by the Black Cat sunday night!

Black Cat Rock n Shop
Sunday
Black Cat
8-12
Mainstage, free admission.
1811 14th Street NW :: DC

tri-neighborhood blog

only a few entries on this site about LeDroit/ Bloomingdale/ Shaw but they seem passionate

pointy things

IMG_2530.JPG
Originally uploaded by Scenic Artisan

Old sand filtration site

Bloomingdale (for now) has a post about the recent meeting. concerning the development of the site.

Inauguration Day

What are your plans for inauguration day?

renting out your pad?
walking down to the mall?


seems that zoned parking will be suspended. metro will be packed. the roads will undoubtedly be gridlocked.

you gonna enjoy it or head for the hills?

Don't miss the last Cheryl's Gone of 2008...

Don't miss the last Cheryl's Gone of 2008...

December 18, 8pm
Eric Pankey, Theodora Danylevich, William Bert, Stripmall Ballads

Eric Pankey is the author of eight collections of poetry. His poetry, essays, and revi ews have appeared in Antaeus, The Antioch Review, The Gettysburg Review, Grand Street, The Iowa Review, The Kenyon Review, New Republic, The New Yorker, The Quarterly, Shenandoah, and many others publications. Winner of the Walt Whitman Award from the Academy of American Poets, Pankey has received numerous grants supporting his work, including fellowships from the Ingram Merrill Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, and the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. His newest book of poetry is THE PEAR AS ONE EXAMPLE: New and Selected Poems (Ausable Press).

Theodora Danylevich is a Washington DC poet who will read from her homophonic translations of Beowulf: "A side project for a few years now, this is a translation based on sound (not meaning) and free association, with intuitive, political and scandalous underpinnings. At one point Beowulf was GW Bush and Shields was Rove... not sure if this project has wrapped itself around HOPE yet... lol... there might need to be a different source text for that one..."

William Bert received an MFA in Fiction from the University of Arizona's Creative Writing Program in 2007. His work has appeared in Colorado Review, pacificREVIEW, Sonora Review, and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He is a founding board member and Executive Secretary of Capitol Letters Writing Center, a Washington, DC youth writing center. He is at work on a novel.

Stripmall Ballads play literate, itinerant bluesy-folky goodness – think Utah Phillips, Woody Guthrie, and David Dondero – and are frequent participants in the monthly DC Banjo Insanity Collective.

@ Big Bear Cafe
1st and R Streets NW
Washington, DC
*free*

--
Cheryl's Gone at Big Bear Cafe
A Monthly Reading & Performance Series
in Washington, DC
www.cherylsgone.com

Bloomingdale-The Book!

As you may have heard, Bloomingdale neighbor Rosemarie Onwukwe is working on the Bloomingdale Neighborhood book for Arcadia Publishing. She is still in need of images to include.

Please keep in mind that in addition to the history of the area, she is also interested in current photos showing life in Bloomingdale! Do you have any photos of hanging out at Big Bear, the Farmer's Market, or even just sitting out on the front stoop?

Also, if you have any neighbors who have been in the area for several years and may not be aware of announcements like this that have been posted on line, please put them in touch (you can e-mail me at my screen name at yahoo.)

Time is running out and Rosemarie needs images as soon as possible. Unfortunately, submitted images must be in print form, rather than digital. (Digital images could be sent for initial review with printing done once they are selected for inclusion.)

National Wholesale Liquidators

Seems that the National Wholesale Liquidators on Rhode Island is closing.

they recently expanded into the basement level... that place is huge!
i wonder what will happen there.

District Demolishes Temple Courts Housing Complex

(Washington, DC) – Mayor Adrian M. Fenty on Monday joined the District of Columbia Housing Authority to begin the demolition of Temple Courts, a long-troubled housing complex north of Union Station that will be transformed into part of the new $700 million mixed- income Northwest One New Community.

“We will not tolerate substandard housing in the District,” Mayor Fenty. “Our residents deserve safe and healthy neighborhoods and that is exactly what we are working toward here at Northwest One.”

The District bought Temple Courts in 2007 for $16.5 million. For years, the residential tower and adjacent low-rises had been plagued by high crime and its residents were not afforded the kind of educational, health care or job opportunities they deserved. Immediately after closing on the purchase of the property, at the request of the residents, the District helped relocate 172 families to new housing around the city.

By early 2010, the District and its development partners, the William C. Smith Cos. and the Jair Lynch Cos. expect to break ground on a the first phase of a $700 million mixed-income, mixed-use community that will eventually include almost 1,600 new units of housing, 200,000 square feet of office space, 40,000 square feet of retail space and a one-acre park. At least 570 units will be reserved as affordable units for buyers and renters. Every family who left Temple Courts will have an opportunity to return to the new community after the project is finished.

The Northwest One project will be built along both sides of North Capitol Street. The site is bounded by K Street to the south, New Jersey Avenue to the west and New York Avenue to the North.

Within the Northwest One neighborhood, the District is currently building the $47 million Walker Jones complex. It will include a 100,000 square foot K-8 school; a 20,000 square foot community recreation center; a 5,000 square foot library and new athletic fields and playgrounds. The project is expected to be complete in time for the start of the 2009-2010 school year.

dc.gov press releases concerning Temple Courts
here
the one i reposted
here

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for Sunday 12/14/08

Here are the Open Houses scheduled in the area for Sunday.

news clip about the murder of Tecardo Ward at Tyler House

video here



read the article here

Bloomingdale Holiday Art Market December 20th

The Bloomingdale Holiday Art Market returns for another fun show at the Big Bear Cafe. We're looking forward to our second annual handmade art market in the neighborhood and hope to see you there!

Skip the mall & join us for some last minute holiday shopping!

Our vendor list includes:
Andrea Haffner :: http://andreahaffner.com

De*Nada Design :: http://denadadesign.com

Sean Hennessey :: http://dcsean.com

goshdarnknit :: http://shoofly.etsy.com

Kristina Bilonick :: http://kristinabilonick.com

Neighborhood Fiber Co :: http://www.neighborhoodfiberco.com

Realm Jewelry :: http://www.realmbyjessewalker.com

Tiger Flight :: http://tr.im/tigerflight

Crossing Florida

i got this email and wanted to pass it along:

Crossing Florida Avenue at R street on one's bicycle usually requires some Jackie Chan-style stunt work. Many cars do not obey the meager pedestrian cross walk that is meant to alert drivers to heavy non-auto traffic at this intersection. In response to recent inquiries about options to raise drivers' awareness and caution at Florida and R, DC Bike Program Specialist Mike Goodno wrote a very speedy, informative and friendly note detailing new construction the city is considering to enhance safety at Florida and R. He also mentioned that concerns would be forwarded to other city officials.

Perhaps to speed the resolution of this neighborhood issue (or to learn more about it), other similarly concerned Bloomingdalers could email Mike Goodno, yaknow, just to show some community solidarity on this issue (assuming it exists and you too do not want to die). Since Mike's response was prompt and great, hopefully everyone will share their thoughts and questions with him in a constructive and friendly manner. His email is: mike.goodno@dc.gov which is publicly available at http://ddot.dc.gov/bike

car crash at north capitol and r street.

moments after i crossed the intersection of north capitol and r street tonight there was a crazy car crash. Apparently a Lincoln ran a light and smashed into another car causing it to flip over, just as the P6 was entering the intersection.

Luckily the P6 was able to stop. I don't know if anyone was hurt.

Its crazy how many people ignore the lights on north capitol.
The light at Quincy might as well be invisible.

Optimal Home Location Tool

this is kinda cool:
Optimal Home Location Tool

mine puts me about four blocks from my house.

LeDroit Park Mural Dedication – Saturday

LeDroit Park Mural Dedication – Saturday, 12/13/2008



Please join us for music, activities & fun as we dedicate our new mural at the Gage-Eckington School (3rd and Elm Streets NW)!

WHO: DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities + the LeDroit Park Community

WHAT: Mural Dedication and Community Celebration

WHEN: Saturday, December 13, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

WHERE: Gage-Eckington Elementary School - 236 Elm Street NW

QUESTIONS or do you want to Volunteer at this event?: Contact Rachel Dickerson with DCAH directly at 202.724.5613 or Rachel.Dickerson@ dc.gov

See you on the 13th!

11th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Mount Bethel Baptist Church

11th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Mount Bethel Baptist Church – Friday, 12/12/2008


The Mount Bethel Baptist Church Family invites you, your family and your friends to come out and be a part of its "11th ANNUAL"CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY". Ceremony is scheduled to be held, Friday, December 12, 2008, at 6:00 P.M., at the church, located at the corner of First Street & Rhode Island Ave, NW, Washington, D.C. 20001. Please dress warm for the occasion. Refreshments will be served and we are planning to walk the neighborhood singing Christmas Carols! ***NOTE: If you desire to bring a treat, please have it at the Church by 5:30 P.M. For additional information, please contact Sister Annette Livingston, at 202-234-0471. You may also call Deacon Gill at 301- 985- 4455 (Cell 301- 526- 9833) Additionally, the Church Secretary is available be 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday thru Friday at 202-667-4448. Come out and let us have a great time in honor of the birth of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Remember, "Jesus Is The Reason For The Season!"
Reverend Bobby L. Livingston, Sr., D. Min., Pastor

Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for 12/08/2008

Open Houses in the area scheduled for this Sunday can be found here.

Wishing you a very Democratic Christmas

Wishing you a very Democratic Christmas
Originally uploaded by ashlyhiggins

Sidewalk, Window & Doors (Washington, DC)

Sidewalk, Window & Doors (Washington, DC)
Originally uploaded by takomabibelot

Do you know what there are a lot of in bloomingdale?

jewelery designers.

we could use a big neighborhoodie design showcase.
anyone want to work with me on that?

bike sale at big bear this saturday

i saw this over at Bloomingdale (for now):
On Saturday, December 6, four local, non-profit bike programs are joining forces to bring more bikes to DC streets. The programs, Phoenix Bikes, Renaissance Community Youth Bike Project, The Mount Rainier Bike Coop, and the Rockville Youth Bike Project, use bikes to help young people get active, have fun learning, and serve their communities. There’ll be 20 - 30 road, hybrid, single-speed, kids, and mountain bikes, refurbished by youth, volunteer, and staff mechanics. Best of all, proceeds go to keeping these programs and their cyclists moving. Come by the Bike Sale, running from 10am – 3 pm at Big Bear Café to find a new ride for 2009!

Mural Dedication and Community Celebration

Please join us for music, activities & fun as we dedicate our new mural at the Gage-Eckington School (3rd and Elm Streets NW)!



WHO: DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities + the LeDroit Park Community



WHAT: Mural Dedication and Community Celebration



WHEN: Saturday, December 13, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM



WHERE: Gage-Eckington Elementary School - 236 Elm Street NW



QUESTIONS or do you want to Volunteer at this event?: Contact Rachel Dickerson with DCAH directly at 202. 724. 5613 or Rachel.Dickerson @ dc.gov



See you on the 13th!

Development of the McMillan Sand Filtration Site

Community Presentation on the Development of the McMillan Sand Filtration Site
December 13, 2008
10:00am to 12:00pm
Social Hall, Trinity University
125 Michigan Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20017

Vision McMillan Partners, the development team for the site, includes:
• EYA
• Jair Lynch Development Partners
• StreetSense
• The Alexander Company
• Smoot & Urban Service Systems Corporation

A TOWN HALL MEETING TO PRESENT CONCEPT PLANS FOR THE SITE, BASED ON PRIOR COMMUNITY AND DISTRICT FEEDBACK, AND TO PROVIDE TIME FOR ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY FEEDBACK AND DISCUSSION. WE ENCOURAGE STRONG ATTENDANCE AND WANT TO SEE YOU THERE!

Discussion Topics will include:

• History and Existing Condition of the Site

• Presentation of Concept Plans - Will include Open Space, Historic Preservation, Mixed- Income & Multi-Generational Housing, Community Serving Retail and Restaurants, Job Creating Office Space, Hospitality, and Community, Education, and Cultural Space

• Key Community Issues - Context and Density, Traffic/Smart Growth, Infrastructure, Community Benefits, LSDBE Participation, Job Creation, Sustainable/Green Development, and Other Community Issues

Light Food and Parking Provided

For More Information, Contact
Vicky Chambers, Office of CM Thomas, at 202- 727- 8204
John Basile, EYA, at 301- 634- 8600

Bloomingdale Holiday Arts Market 2008

Arts! Crafts! Cider! Fun!

Yes, it's happening again! The Bloomingdale Holiday Art Market returns for another fun show at the Big Bear Cafe. We're looking forward to our second annual handmade art market in the neighborhood and hope to see you there!

Save the Date! Saturday, December 20th, from 4-9pm at the Big Bear Cafe, 1st and R St NW in DC.

Come shop with amazing local artists including: Andrea Haffner, Sean Hennessey, Realm Jewelry, De*Nada Design, Kristina Bilonick, and more!


Buy Handmade this holiday season and support your local artists and designers! Have you taken the pledge yet?

shop,eat, and drink a little cheaper in adams morgan

its a bit up the road from us, but hell, i like it if i can save yous some money.

Adams Morgan First Tuesdays The first Tuesday of every month All Day Adams Morgan 1815 Adams Mill Road, NW Second Floor Washington, DC 20009 Adams Morgan Tuesday Shop and Eat Special offers discounted dining and shopping on the first Tuesday of each month. Patrons can dine at select restaurants and receive food and drink for two persons for $25. Customers can also shop at select retailers and receive shopping discounts from 10 to 35 percent. Some First Tuesday Offerings include: Food and drink for two for $25 (plus tax) (Offerings vary) Bossa Bistro (2463 18th St. NW) Bourbon (2321 18th St. NW) Chloe (2473 18th St. NW) Duplex Diner (2004 18th St. NW) El Tamarindo (1785 Florida Ave. NW) Felix (2406 18th St. NW) L’Enfant Café (2000 18th St. NW) La Fourchette (2429 18th St. NW) Left Bank (2424 18th St. NW) Perry’s (1811 Columbia Rd. NW) Saki (2477 18th St. NW) The Grill From Ipanema (1858 Columbia Rd. NW) Tom Tom (2333 18th St. NW) Discounted Sales of 10-30 percent off selected items or storewide Brass Knob Architectural Antiques (2311 18th Street, NW) DeVinos (2001 18th Street, NW) Fleet Feet (1841 Columbia Road, NW) Kobos African Clothiers (2444 18th Street, NW) Meeps Vintage (2104 18th Street, NW) Miss Pixie's (2473 18th Street, NW) Shake Your Booty (2206 18th Street, NW) Skynear Furnishings (2122 18th Street, NW) The District Line (2118 18th Street, NW) Toro Mata Art & Furnishings of Peru (2410 18th Street, NW) Salon & Beauty The Spa at Mint Fitness 1724 California St. NW Urban Escape - A Day Spa 1781 Florida Ave. NW The event is organized by Adams Morgan Main Street, which is one of nine DC Main Streets, a program managed by reSTORE DC in the Department of Small and Local Business Development. Local DC Main Street programs, like Adams Morgan Main Street Group, work to revitalize their local neighborhood business district in several ways, including assisting small businesses, promoting their neighborhood business district and improving the physical appearance of the commercial district’s streetscape and buildings. Sponsor: Adams Morgan Main Street Adams Morgan Main Street Contact: Adams Morgan Main Street Group ExecDirector@AMMainStreet.com (202) 232-1960

ST. GEORGES EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN (ECW) CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

ST. GEORGES EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN (ECW) CHRISTMAS BAZAAR
Saturday, December 6, 2008
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
2nd and U Streets, NW

FEATURING:
VENDORS
"THIS-N-THAT" TABLE
SILENT AUCTION
GIFT CARD RAFFLE
BAKED GOODS TABLE
CHRISTMAS POTPOURRI TABLE
CRAFTS
AND THE RETURN OF THE SCRUMPTIOUS DINNER CAFE!


This is an annual St. George's tradition you don't want to miss!