Two pieces of legislation that can have a significant affect on the property values in our neighborhood are in process this week. Congress has passed an extension of the FHA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac higher loan limits through 2010. The President is expected to sign off on this quickly. This helps there to be affordable mortgage money available for the purchase of homes in the price ranges found in DC. The other very important legislation that has had much debate recently is the extension of the Federal Tax Credit for Home Buyers. The current proposed legislation extends the credit into next Spring. It also expands the people that it serves by increasing income limits and by allowing some current property owners to access the credit. Hopefully, a vote will be scheduled for next week.
And here are open houses for Sunday.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
feedback on 1st St NW home that broken into and the resident who was "bound with wire and tape"
First, see this message from Bloomingdale resident Joe Levesque regarding this recent crime reported on the MPD-5D list:
HORRIBLE CRIME IN BLOOMINGDALE ON 1700 FIRST ST
NWFIRST STREET NW, 1700 block, 1:25 p.m. Oct. 16.
A man entered a residence and assaulted a person. The person was then bound with wire and tape. The assailant fled with property.I can't believe that someone in Bloomingdale had to endure being bound with wire and held hostage while a thief steals their belongings. That person must have been deathly frightened not knowing if they would be killed in their own home. Note that this happened around noon time! This same awful scene happened a few years ago on the 2100 block of First St NW. A home owner, a strong 30 yr old male, went into the alley at 8 PM to empty the trash. He was abducted at gun point by 2 men lurking in the alley, taken into his house, and bound and gagged in the kitchen. He had two dogs, one ran upstairs, the other was shot. The assailants started to haul items out the rear door as the owner sat tied on the kitchen floor, wondering if he also would be killed. Neighbors noticed this activity and called 911. Police arrested the scumbags. The two owners said screw this, sold their house and moved to Washington state. They didn't feel safe in their own home anymore. Keep your doors locked at all times and call police if something seems odd.
Now read this feedback from a resident on the unit block of S Street NW:
Just wanted to make a follow-up comment in addition to Mr. Levesque's on the home invasion/robbery. I was shocked that I first read about this in the Bloomingdale email! We get the MPD updates and didn't hear anything - being from a smaller community, an event like this would have been front-page news, followed up with tips on what happened, what the risk factors were, what citizens should be looking out for (suspect, description - where are the "wanted" posters with the suspect's description?), and what you can do to protect yourself - in your own home - at lunch time no less. I'm always shocked these crimes are taking place right next door to us in broad daylight or even at 9 PM when all of our neighbors are home. I realize it's hard to hear through the brick rowhouses and hard to look out if you only have windows in the back, but please take a moment to look out your window if you hear shouting and take a moment to call 911 if you see something suspicious! I sometimes feel I'm completely alone walking down the deserted sidewalk at night, yet I know I'm surrounded by people inside their homes and since everyone's decks and yards are out back, the main streets are devoid of neighborhood "eyes". I'd also like to get more information as soon as possible from our police force on this home invasion, what the risk factors were for this individual and what we need to be looking out for!!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
the drug dealers are back in Bloomingdale
See this 10/27/2009 message from Bloomingdale resident Todd Crosby:
Was it my imagination, but I had thought that the street hoodlums that hang out on the corners had abandoned Bloomingdale last spring... until just the past few weeks. It was such a nice spring and summer: no bullets flying, no loitering drug dealers on the corners -- a great community. I thought that we had turned a corner and that those guys had given up on the drug markets in this community and had moved on.
However, in the past, literally, 3 weeks they've all returned.
Drug dealers hanging out in the old haunts, shootings in the same places...the helicopters...it's all back. What happened? Anyone know what the word on the street is? Did the police release a bunch back of the crew back into the community? Did some gangs just decide to retake the corners? It's like night and day.
It was a nice preview of what Bloomingdale can look without these street thugs plying their trade here. I'm a bit disappointed to see them back.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Bloomingdale resident Peter Frampton's letter to CM Thomas on Chancellor Michelle Rhee
Bloomingdale resident Peter Frampton asked me to post his Email to Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas Jr. and the subsequent reply.
So here you go.
So here you go.
From: "Thomas, Harry (COUNCIL)"
Date: October 27,
2009 7:40:13 PM CDT
To: Peter Frampton
Cc: Carole Frampton,
"Rodgers, Neil (COUNCIL)", "Pittman, James (COUNCIL)", "Nix, Susan (COUNCIL)"
Subject: RE: We support DC School Reformthanks for your email and sharing your concerns.
From: Peter Frampton Sent:
Tuesday,
October 27, 2009 8:05 PMTo: Thomas, Harry (COUNCIL)Cc: Carole FramptonSubject: We support DC School Reform
Dear Mr Thomas,
as residents of Thomas St NW, Ward 5, with two girls in the DC Public School system, we support Michelle Rhee in her efforts to reform the school system. Change was never going to be easy nor painless, but it is really making a difference in the lives of the children who are most dependent upon the school system to achieve their dreams in life.Please support Michelle Rhee's efforts. She's doing it for the children.
Many thanks for your services to the city and in our Ward.
With kind regards,
Peter Frampton,
father of Chloe 7 and Lydia 5, who attend Ross Elementary.
Peter Frampton
Thomas St NW
Washington DC
20001 USA
Care to commment?
Let us review, once again, what the rules are for posting comments:
1) Identify yourself. A full name would be best, but at least include a first name.
2) Identify your neighborhood.
3) Totally anonymous posts will not be allowed and be deleted, regardless of the content of the comment. BOTH name and neighborhood name are required!
Thanks for honoring the rules.
"how can we get the police to focus on our area more?"
See this 10/26/2009 message from Bloomingdale resident Alexandra:
I feel like crime, especially dangerous/violent crime, has escalated in this neighborhood over the last few months. I don't dare walk my dog at night anymore. It also concerns me that I do not see many police cars patrolling the area, despite all the recent events. And I don't know what needs to be done at this point. Though a gated community is not the solution, perhaps something like private neighborhood security patrols or more video cameras should be considered.
What else can/should be done?
How can we get the police to focus on our area more? Please don't respond by telling me to leave the neighborhood - I live in Bloomingdale because I love it, but also don't want to feel like I can't leave my house in the evening (or the morning, for that matter considering that many horrible events have occurred during daylight) without a high chance of getting mugged or worse. My thoughts go out to all who have had to experience these ordeals firsthand.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
New York Pizza's bullet-proof glass -- support or oppose?
The KFC at 2 Florida Avenue NE recently re-opened as a New York Pizza restaurant.
The interior is more or less the same as the KFC -- there is bullet-proof glass greeting the customer.
Some residents support the presence of the bullet-proof glass; others oppose it.
Here are some recent comments:
I was wondering --- Have any of those persons commenting negatively about these precautions ever had to work in one of these establishments and deal on a daily basis with all the different types of persons that come in to do business. Have they ever been the only attendant in one of these establishments. Until our neighborhood changes even more than it has, I applaud the business owners for taking precautions to take care of the safety of themselves and their employees.
Walk a mile in the shoes of the workers. Try to support these businesses so that we can have more establishments to service our needs locally.
-- Long time resident of 4th Street, Northwest
I would like to thank the posters who will not visit stores with glass, you are part of the reason that Luciano's on P and N. Cap is no longer in business. Before they closed, a few windows were broken and an ATM was ripped from the wall. In that environment, glass is a matter of personal safety. Comparing Big Bear which only has daylight hours to a place which is open until 1am on the weekends is a bit of a stretch. Five Guys is also in a bit of a better situation as there isn't a large population of vagrants camping outside. I would invite you to open up a minimally staffed restaurant without glass and see how safe that intersection is.
-- 1500 block of 1st Street NW resident.
What do YOU think?
And let’s review, once again, what the rules are for posting comments:
1) Identify yourself. A full name would be best, but at least include a first name.
2) Identify your neighborhood.
3) Totally anonymous posts will not be allowed and be deleted, regardless of the content of the comment.
BOTH name and neighborhood name are required! Thanks for honoring the rules.
The interior is more or less the same as the KFC -- there is bullet-proof glass greeting the customer.
Some residents support the presence of the bullet-proof glass; others oppose it.
Here are some recent comments:
I was wondering --- Have any of those persons commenting negatively about these precautions ever had to work in one of these establishments and deal on a daily basis with all the different types of persons that come in to do business. Have they ever been the only attendant in one of these establishments. Until our neighborhood changes even more than it has, I applaud the business owners for taking precautions to take care of the safety of themselves and their employees.
Walk a mile in the shoes of the workers. Try to support these businesses so that we can have more establishments to service our needs locally.
-- Long time resident of 4th Street, Northwest
I would like to thank the posters who will not visit stores with glass, you are part of the reason that Luciano's on P and N. Cap is no longer in business. Before they closed, a few windows were broken and an ATM was ripped from the wall. In that environment, glass is a matter of personal safety. Comparing Big Bear which only has daylight hours to a place which is open until 1am on the weekends is a bit of a stretch. Five Guys is also in a bit of a better situation as there isn't a large population of vagrants camping outside. I would invite you to open up a minimally staffed restaurant without glass and see how safe that intersection is.
-- 1500 block of 1st Street NW resident.
What do YOU think?
And let’s review, once again, what the rules are for posting comments:
1) Identify yourself. A full name would be best, but at least include a first name.
2) Identify your neighborhood.
3) Totally anonymous posts will not be allowed and be deleted, regardless of the content of the comment.
BOTH name and neighborhood name are required! Thanks for honoring the rules.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
Now Sunday! Bloomingdale House Tour shuffled from Saturday to Sunday
****Date Change****
Due to 80% chance of rain tomorrow, the Bloomingdale House Tour has been moved to Sunday, October 25. You still have time to purchase tickets! Details below...
The Bloomingdale Civic Association Presents "Victorian Secrets"
Due to 80% chance of rain tomorrow, the Bloomingdale House Tour has been moved to Sunday, October 25. You still have time to purchase tickets! Details below...
The Bloomingdale Civic Association Presents "Victorian Secrets"
A Fund Raising House Tour
Sunday, October 25, 2009
1-5:00 PM
This tour features 8 private homes in the Bloomingdale neighborhood - from a home that once housed nuns, to a home with an incredible garden oasis, to a North Capitol Main Street board member's lovely abode, to the best rooftop view in DC! Afterwards, join the end-of-the-tour party at the Anna J Cooper house and enjoy fantastic food & the smooth sounds of jazz artist, and Bloomingdale resident, Maurice Lyles.
This is a fund raiser to benefit the Bloomingdale Civic Association's cooperative work and commitment to the citizens of this community.
Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of the tour (children 7-12 ½ price, under 7 free) and can be purchased at Bloomingdale Wine & Spirits, 1st and Rhode Island Ave., NW, Mon-Fri and at Big Bear Cafe on the day of the event.
You may also contact J.C. Blount, 202/986- 2772, J.C. Bond, 202/328- 3068 or Laurie Choice, 202/797- 7407 for additional information or to volunteer.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
North Capitol Main Street Meet and Greet Fundraiser
Having trouble viewing this email? Click here: http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001oXhWNqUJKjwcoWg11hhavoMBhheQNDFlWK7nt8q2jChL1sxiEUJA6cFD9i0hGSUI159Kw1R-sMpfpw3eLe7EBCADqI-VH_AzOZbfhPsO12s%3D
North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Meet and Greet Fundraiser
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22,2009
6:30pm -8:30pm
2035 2ND STREET NW
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20001
You are Cordially Invited to the North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Fundraising Drive. Thursday, October 22nd from 6:30PM to 8:30PM.
Come and enjoy this NCMS Happy Hour opportunity to help support NCMS' efforts in Eckington, Bloomingdale, Truxton Circle neighborhoods.
This is an open networking event for all local residents, business owners and professionals to network and make contacts. Please forward this invitation to friends and co-workers. Drinks and snacks will be available. Donations are appreciated!
Where: Parker Flats Condo's 2035 2nd St NW Washington, DC 20001
When: Thursday, October 22, 2009
6:30PM to 8:30PM
Hosts: North Capitol Main Street,Inc.
Parker Flats' Condo Association
Please Note: Donations will be appreciated!
Interested in joining the North Capitol Main Street Effort? What are we looking for? We need your help in obtaining project volunteers, new excited members, and potential board members.
Ready to start right away? Contact Garry Clark @ http://us.mc5.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=gclark@ncmsinc.org or call 202-905-6039
Get involved and help lead the way to neighborhood revitalization today! Garry ClarkNorth Capitol Main Street, Inc.
North Capitol Main Street is funded by the Department of Small and Local Business Development and D.C. Main Streets
North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Meet and Greet Fundraiser
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22,2009
6:30pm -8:30pm
2035 2ND STREET NW
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20001
You are Cordially Invited to the North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Fundraising Drive. Thursday, October 22nd from 6:30PM to 8:30PM.
Come and enjoy this NCMS Happy Hour opportunity to help support NCMS' efforts in Eckington, Bloomingdale, Truxton Circle neighborhoods.
This is an open networking event for all local residents, business owners and professionals to network and make contacts. Please forward this invitation to friends and co-workers. Drinks and snacks will be available. Donations are appreciated!
Where: Parker Flats Condo's 2035 2nd St NW Washington, DC 20001
When: Thursday, October 22, 2009
6:30PM to 8:30PM
Hosts: North Capitol Main Street,Inc.
Parker Flats' Condo Association
Please Note: Donations will be appreciated!
Interested in joining the North Capitol Main Street Effort? What are we looking for? We need your help in obtaining project volunteers, new excited members, and potential board members.
Ready to start right away? Contact Garry Clark @ http://us.mc5.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=gclark@ncmsinc.org or call 202-905-6039
Get involved and help lead the way to neighborhood revitalization today! Garry ClarkNorth Capitol Main Street, Inc.
North Capitol Main Street is funded by the Department of Small and Local Business Development and D.C. Main Streets
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
Sean Hennessey & Rania Hassan Art Events Newsletter Fall Edition
Hello friends, If you’ve been following us via twitter, blog, or facebook, you’ll know we’ve been quite busy in the art and craft world.We want to thank you all for visiting us at Crafty Bastards, Arts on Foot, and the Common Elements show. We really appreciate the support. Below is a list of current and upcoming events. We hope to see you soon!
Thanks,Sean Hennessey & Rania Hassan.
. News .
Rania was profiled in the cover story of the Washington Post Weekend on October 2 in an article titled Crafts With an Edge. Click here to read.
. Gallery Neptune .
Opening tomorrow night, Rania’s exhibit at Gallery Neptune will feature new directions in her Knit Together series in a two-person show with metal sculptor Joyce Zipperer.
The show opens tomorrow, Saturday, October 17, 7-9pm, and will run through November 14. According to dcist, and Daily Candy, you'll really want to see this show. Gallery Neptune5001 Wilson Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814 [2nd Floor]
A few blocks from Bethesda Metro Station [Red Line]
Click here for map
Gallery Hours:
Thursday–Saturday, 12-5 pm, also by appointmentPlease see web site for details and additional event information.
. James Renwick Alliance Day .
Rania and Sean are both participating in this James Renwick Alliance Craft Artist Exhibit and Sale.
From the web site: JRA Day is sponsored by the James Renwick Alliance, an independent national nonprofit organization that celebrates the achievements of America’s craft artists and fosters scholarship, education and public appreciation of craft art. The JRA was founded in 1982 and is the exclusive support group for the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, our nation’s showcase of contemporary American craft.JRA Day
The Woman’s Club of Chevy Chase7931 Connecticut Ave NW, Chevy Chase, MDSaturday, 11am-5pm
map and directions
Admission:$5 for James Renwick Alliance members$7 for non-members
Free Parkingplease visit web site for details
. Artwork Online .
Our smaller pieces can be purchased online anytime and shipped anywhere around the world.
Rania's illustrated Moleskine and knit paintings are at: shoofly.etsy.com
Sean's experimental pieces in glass and concrete can be found at scenicartisans.etsy.com
. Follow Us .
Looking for more details about what we're up to? There are many ways to keep track of us, here are some of our links!
:: Sean Hennessey ::Email: art@wheresmycoffee.comTel: 202.550.4634Blog: : wheresmycoffee.comArt portfolio: dcsean.comTwitter: twitter.com/wheresmycoffeeFlickr: flickr.com/wheresmycoffeeFacebook: facebook.com/pages/Sean-Hennessey
:: Rania Hassan ::Email: darnknit@gmail.comTel: 202.320.9300Blog: goshdarnknit.comArt portfolio: raniahassan.comNotebook Portfolio: trunkt.org/shooflyTwitter: twitter.com/goshdarnknitFlickr: flickr.com/goshdarnknit.comFacebook: facebook.com/pages/goshdarnknit
Please be sure to visit event links posted above to make sure dates haven't changed since sending this out. Thanks for reading down this far, we hope to see you sometime soon at one of our events!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
North Capitol Main Street Fall meet-and-greet fundraiser at Parker Flats
See this message from Garry Clark, Executive Director, North Capitol Main Street, Inc.
North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Meet and Greet Fundraiser
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22,2009
6:30pm -8:30pm
You are Cordially Invited to the North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Fundraising Drive. Thursday, October 22nd from 6:30PM to 8:30PM.
Come and enjoy this NCMS Happy Hour opportunity to help support NCMS' efforts in Eckington, Bloomingdale, Truxton Circle neighborhoods.
This is an open networking event for all local residents, business owners and professionals to network and make contacts. Please forward this invitation to friends and co-workers. Drinks and snacks will be available. A $25.00 donation is requested.
Where: Parker Flats at Gage School Condos
2035 2nd St NW Washington, DC 20001
When: Thursday, October 22, 2009
6:30PM to 8:30PM
Hosts: North Capitol Main Street,Inc.
Parker Flats' Condo Association
Please Note: a $25.00 donation is requested.
Get involved and help lead the way to neighborhood revitalization today!
North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Meet and Greet Fundraiser
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22,2009
6:30pm -8:30pm
You are Cordially Invited to the North Capitol Main Street, Inc. Fall Fundraising Drive. Thursday, October 22nd from 6:30PM to 8:30PM.
Come and enjoy this NCMS Happy Hour opportunity to help support NCMS' efforts in Eckington, Bloomingdale, Truxton Circle neighborhoods.
This is an open networking event for all local residents, business owners and professionals to network and make contacts. Please forward this invitation to friends and co-workers. Drinks and snacks will be available. A $25.00 donation is requested.
Where: Parker Flats at Gage School Condos
2035 2nd St NW Washington, DC 20001
When: Thursday, October 22, 2009
6:30PM to 8:30PM
Hosts: North Capitol Main Street,Inc.
Parker Flats' Condo Association
Please Note: a $25.00 donation is requested.
Interested in joining the North Capitol Main Street Effort? What are we looking for? We need your help in obtaining project volunteers, new excited members, and potential board members.
Ready to start right away?
Contact Garry Clark at
gclark@ncmsinc.org or call 202-905-6039Get involved and help lead the way to neighborhood revitalization today!
Garry ClarkNorth Capitol
Main Street, Inc.
North Capitol Main Street is funded by the Department of Small and Local Business Development and D.C. Main Streets.
Stu Davenport's development company saves the day in WCP's Housing Complex
Have your ever read Ruth Samuelson's Housing Complex column in the Washington City Paper?
This week's Housing Complex column centers upon a Florida Avenue NW rowhouse renovation nightmare.
Who helped the hapless homeowner with some renovations when his original contractor failed to do so?
Go here: http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/housingcomplex/2009/10/14/florida-avenue-grilling/
This week's Housing Complex column centers upon a Florida Avenue NW rowhouse renovation nightmare.
Who helped the hapless homeowner with some renovations when his original contractor failed to do so?
None other than Stu Davenport and his development company.
Go here: http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/blogs/housingcomplex/2009/10/14/florida-avenue-grilling/
Sunday, October 11, 2009
From a R St NW resident who despises the Bloomingdale Farmers' Market
Recent commment about the Bloomingdale Farmers' Market by Bloomingdale resident Joe Levesque:
And here is some follow-up statements from a Bloomingdale resident on the 100 block of R Street NW, who has made unfavorable remarks about the Bloomingdale Farmers' Market in the past:
I love the urban mix at our farmers market here in Bloomingdale:
Old fashion live fiddle music,
Ultra chique menu items with fab ingredients
FREE Bicycle repairs and tune-up
No wonder Bloomingdale Farmers market is the 7th favorite small market in the entire USA!!!
And here is some follow-up statements from a Bloomingdale resident on the 100 block of R Street NW, who has made unfavorable remarks about the Bloomingdale Farmers' Market in the past:
I resent the hijacking of our very small block for the privileged few who pay exorbitant prices to vendors who do not even live in our neighborhood or DC.
The tacky and illegal pcv/metal pipe and other homemade sign posts that litter our beautiful tree boxes so as to promote this dreadful market (these must be removed immediately as they are against city ordinance).
The arrogance of a few (including our ANC rep and owner of Big Bear) who does what's best for (his)business and NOT the the citizens of the 100 block of R Street NW. I am hoping someone will run against him during the next election.
What is the source document for claiming 7th in the USA?
I suspect the original poster meant chic and NOT chique. For many of the old time neighbors, however, BFM fiddle music and menu items are from chic!+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
neighborhood name are required! Thanks for honoring the rules.And let’s review, once again, what the rules are for posting comments:
1) Identify yourself. A full name would be best, but at least include a first name.
2) Identify your neighborhood.
3) Totally anonymous posts will not be allowed and be deleted, regardless of the content of the comment.
BOTH name and
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
care to comment on the proposed revised regulations for neighborhood historic designation ??
See the message below from Capitol Hill resident Nancy Metzger and head of the DC Historic Districts Coalition.
The Thursday, October 22, 2009 Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) meeting agenda includes "taking comments" on the proposed revised regulations for historic district designation.
There has been heated and lively commentary on neighborhood lists regarding the topic of having neighborhoods historically designated.
If you feel passionate on this topic -- in opposition or support -- you are invited to participate in the discussion. One opportunity is the upcoming HPRB meeting.
REGULATIONS FOR HISTORIC LANDMARK AND HISTORIC DISTRICT DESIGNATIONS
A final draft of new regulations for designating historic districts and historic landmarks has been published and the Historic Preservation Review Board will be taking comments at the October 22 meeting. These regulations have changed in important ways since the public participation issue was discussed last year at the Cheh-Bowser Bill legislative hearing.
At the Council hearing, many Historic Districts Coalition members and others in the preservation community testified about the importance of public participation in the process, but also suggested changes in the legislation that would have impacted the designation procedure. The complete regulations, showing corrections, can be accessed through the HPO web site.
Comments on the proposed regulation should be submitted, in writing, to Tersh Boasberg, Chairman, Historic Preservation Review Board, 2000 14th Street, NW, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20009.
Several key points:
· All property owners will be notified of pending designation and owners have the right to submit a statement to the Board before the hearing stating their objections or their support. (It appears that an earlier mail-back ballot idea has been dropped.)
· It would require a majority of owners expressing their opposition in written form to block the nomination. They could testify at a hearing but the staff would tally the written comments. If the Board feels that there is not broad community support, particularly as indicated by the written comments, then there’s a waiting period of 12 months before a nomination can be reconsidered. (The regs explicitly say the applicant doesn’t have to demonstrate universal support or support from those declining to register an opinion. This waiting period is a change from the much longer waiting periods suggested by the Cheh-Bowser bill but is in line with the federal regulations.)
· Although the regulations say listings in the DC Inventory can be amended or revoked, it also says properties may be removed only if they no longer meet the criteria for designation. ( So there does not seem to be a method to remove properties if they just become unpopular or inconvenient somehow.)
· There is a section that requires draft historic district guidelines for each individual historic district that must be distributed before a determination is made by the Board. (The guidelines would be revised later, taking into account comments from the Board and public, after the nomination is acted on. This follows the Foxhall Village adoption scenario.)
· In addition, there is a section that states the Board, Mayor’s Agent, and staff may use the Comprehensive Plan and the Historic Preservation Plan for “additional guidance on the listing of properties in the DC Inventory and on the review of construction affecting historic landmarks and historic districts.”
The Thursday, October 22, 2009 Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) meeting agenda includes "taking comments" on the proposed revised regulations for historic district designation.
There has been heated and lively commentary on neighborhood lists regarding the topic of having neighborhoods historically designated.
If you feel passionate on this topic -- in opposition or support -- you are invited to participate in the discussion. One opportunity is the upcoming HPRB meeting.
REGULATIONS FOR HISTORIC LANDMARK AND HISTORIC DISTRICT DESIGNATIONS
A final draft of new regulations for designating historic districts and historic landmarks has been published and the Historic Preservation Review Board will be taking comments at the October 22 meeting. These regulations have changed in important ways since the public participation issue was discussed last year at the Cheh-Bowser Bill legislative hearing.
At the Council hearing, many Historic Districts Coalition members and others in the preservation community testified about the importance of public participation in the process, but also suggested changes in the legislation that would have impacted the designation procedure. The complete regulations, showing corrections, can be accessed through the HPO web site.
Comments on the proposed regulation should be submitted, in writing, to Tersh Boasberg, Chairman, Historic Preservation Review Board, 2000 14th Street, NW, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20009.
Several key points:
· All property owners will be notified of pending designation and owners have the right to submit a statement to the Board before the hearing stating their objections or their support. (It appears that an earlier mail-back ballot idea has been dropped.)
· It would require a majority of owners expressing their opposition in written form to block the nomination. They could testify at a hearing but the staff would tally the written comments. If the Board feels that there is not broad community support, particularly as indicated by the written comments, then there’s a waiting period of 12 months before a nomination can be reconsidered. (The regs explicitly say the applicant doesn’t have to demonstrate universal support or support from those declining to register an opinion. This waiting period is a change from the much longer waiting periods suggested by the Cheh-Bowser bill but is in line with the federal regulations.)
· Although the regulations say listings in the DC Inventory can be amended or revoked, it also says properties may be removed only if they no longer meet the criteria for designation. ( So there does not seem to be a method to remove properties if they just become unpopular or inconvenient somehow.)
· There is a section that requires draft historic district guidelines for each individual historic district that must be distributed before a determination is made by the Board. (The guidelines would be revised later, taking into account comments from the Board and public, after the nomination is acted on. This follows the Foxhall Village adoption scenario.)
· In addition, there is a section that states the Board, Mayor’s Agent, and staff may use the Comprehensive Plan and the Historic Preservation Plan for “additional guidance on the listing of properties in the DC Inventory and on the review of construction affecting historic landmarks and historic districts.”
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
BACA votes to oppose LAYC at Cook School
I attended last night's Bates Area Civic Association (BACA) meeting held at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church.
I took some notes.
Here are some of my notes, which should be classified as non-comprehensive and non- exhaustive.
The focus of the BACA meeting was the use of the JF Cook School on the unit block of P Street NW by the Latin American Youth Council (LAYC).
The local Truxton Circle / Bates area community in attendance overwhelmingly expressed opposition to the LAYC moving into the Cook School. The primary item of opposition appears to be the residential component of the school, which was not disclosed when LAYC came before the community on five occasions.
President Jim Berry said that the LAYC school will push back neighborhood retail development 30 years.
He invited the Mayor, who was in attendance, to look at the bigger picture – the methadone clinics, SOME, etc. “Your team didn’t look at the big picture. LAYC will have an adverse, disruptive presence.”
ANC 5C Chair Anita Bonds asked how we can support LAYC. “We are home to the Rayful Edmonds gang. We don’t want another gang in the neighborhood.” “If this is a done deal, you will have to help us determine how best this will work. We were hoping for retail.”
Bloomingdale resident Pat Mitchell commented that there is continued suppressing of retail opportunities. “There is not enough support to mitigate the offset of the social services.”
A number of students from LAYC (and parents? faculty? staff?) attended as well.
Residents challenged the RFP process used, which the Mayor defended.
Resident MaryAnn Wilmer asked why LAC couldn’t co-locate with the Phelps Vocational School. She stated that she strongly opposes LAYC coming in.
ANC 5C Commissioner Sylvia Pickney remarked that the school offers no benefit to the community.
Some guy in the rear of the room asked the Mayor what he would do to encourage economic development in the community.
The Mayor replied that the presence of social services does not hamper economic development.
The Mayor said that he would have his staff walk through the community in the next 30 days to address the issues raised at the meeting, such as the homeless, the intoxicated and the drug dealers hanging out the parks at 1st & Florida NW and 1st & New York Avenue NW.
The Mayor briefly described the Youth Build programs in Petworth and on Park Road NW. Both sites are near successful housing & retail developments. “I see this as a jar half full, not half empty. This doesn’t have to be either or.”
A female resident unknown to me commented that it was news that the school would have housing on the site – that was announced after-the-fact. Housing increases the scope of the project. She then described how buses drop off people from all over the city early in the morning in the neighborhood for breakfast at SOME and then hang out all day, etc., etc.
A 23-year-old student at LAYC spoke passionately about the school and how it has helped turned her life around for the better.
BACA President Jim Berry remarked that he would prefer to have the school available for economic development.
After the general discussion wrapped up – when the Mayor needed to depart – a number of meeting attendees, including most of the people associated with the charter school, also departed.
A woman who identified herself as someone with the school (principal? vice principal?) began describing the schools programs and benefits, but left the room upset and crying. She was clearly not happy that the school was not being welcomed into the community.
Then there was a reading of a resolution by BACA to oppose LAYC at the Cook School. The resolution was quite long, but I jotted down “saturation of social services.” The resolution asked the District to rescind the decision. The resolution passed. Similar resolutions were passed from the Hanover Civic Association and the Dunbar-Shaw Homeowner’s Association (which I have never heard of before). Only one resident at the meeting explicitly expressed support for the project.
It was noted that there was an interest in having an ANC 5C vote to support/oppose LAYC. Ostensibly, the vote was put on hold for a future meeting. So ANC 5C has not taken an official position (yet).
And I still don't understand the relationship of LAYC and Youth Build.
I took some notes.
Here are some of my notes, which should be classified as non-comprehensive and non- exhaustive.
The focus of the BACA meeting was the use of the JF Cook School on the unit block of P Street NW by the Latin American Youth Council (LAYC).
The local Truxton Circle / Bates area community in attendance overwhelmingly expressed opposition to the LAYC moving into the Cook School. The primary item of opposition appears to be the residential component of the school, which was not disclosed when LAYC came before the community on five occasions.
President Jim Berry said that the LAYC school will push back neighborhood retail development 30 years.
He invited the Mayor, who was in attendance, to look at the bigger picture – the methadone clinics, SOME, etc. “Your team didn’t look at the big picture. LAYC will have an adverse, disruptive presence.”
ANC 5C Chair Anita Bonds asked how we can support LAYC. “We are home to the Rayful Edmonds gang. We don’t want another gang in the neighborhood.” “If this is a done deal, you will have to help us determine how best this will work. We were hoping for retail.”
Bloomingdale resident Pat Mitchell commented that there is continued suppressing of retail opportunities. “There is not enough support to mitigate the offset of the social services.”
A number of students from LAYC (and parents? faculty? staff?) attended as well.
Residents challenged the RFP process used, which the Mayor defended.
Resident MaryAnn Wilmer asked why LAC couldn’t co-locate with the Phelps Vocational School. She stated that she strongly opposes LAYC coming in.
ANC 5C Commissioner Sylvia Pickney remarked that the school offers no benefit to the community.
Some guy in the rear of the room asked the Mayor what he would do to encourage economic development in the community.
The Mayor replied that the presence of social services does not hamper economic development.
The Mayor said that he would have his staff walk through the community in the next 30 days to address the issues raised at the meeting, such as the homeless, the intoxicated and the drug dealers hanging out the parks at 1st & Florida NW and 1st & New York Avenue NW.
The Mayor briefly described the Youth Build programs in Petworth and on Park Road NW. Both sites are near successful housing & retail developments. “I see this as a jar half full, not half empty. This doesn’t have to be either or.”
A female resident unknown to me commented that it was news that the school would have housing on the site – that was announced after-the-fact. Housing increases the scope of the project. She then described how buses drop off people from all over the city early in the morning in the neighborhood for breakfast at SOME and then hang out all day, etc., etc.
A 23-year-old student at LAYC spoke passionately about the school and how it has helped turned her life around for the better.
BACA President Jim Berry remarked that he would prefer to have the school available for economic development.
After the general discussion wrapped up – when the Mayor needed to depart – a number of meeting attendees, including most of the people associated with the charter school, also departed.
A woman who identified herself as someone with the school (principal? vice principal?) began describing the schools programs and benefits, but left the room upset and crying. She was clearly not happy that the school was not being welcomed into the community.
Then there was a reading of a resolution by BACA to oppose LAYC at the Cook School. The resolution was quite long, but I jotted down “saturation of social services.” The resolution asked the District to rescind the decision. The resolution passed. Similar resolutions were passed from the Hanover Civic Association and the Dunbar-Shaw Homeowner’s Association (which I have never heard of before). Only one resident at the meeting explicitly expressed support for the project.
It was noted that there was an interest in having an ANC 5C vote to support/oppose LAYC. Ostensibly, the vote was put on hold for a future meeting. So ANC 5C has not taken an official position (yet).
And I still don't understand the relationship of LAYC and Youth Build.
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Open Houses scheduled in and around Bloomingdale for 10/04/2009
Here's hoping for another nice crisp Fall day to visit the scheduled open houses. Enjoy!
Sean & Rania at today's Crafty Bastards
See this 10/02/2009 message from Bloomingdale resident and Scenic Artisan Sean Hennessey:
There was an article including [wife] Rania [Hassan] in today’s Washington Post weekend section in their Crafty Bastards coverage. It mentions that we live in Bloomingdale. [Yahh for Bloomingdale!]
We'll both be at Crafty Bastards on Saturday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/01/AR2009100101888.html?sub=AR
pictures of Rania are only in the print edition.
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/craftybastards/
There was an article including [wife] Rania [Hassan] in today’s Washington Post weekend section in their Crafty Bastards coverage. It mentions that we live in Bloomingdale. [Yahh for Bloomingdale!]
We'll both be at Crafty Bastards on Saturday.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/01/AR2009100101888.html?sub=AR
pictures of Rania are only in the print edition.
http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/craftybastards/
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