hello from Zee's Restaurant, 600 Florida Avenue NW

See this 10/31/2010 message from Zee of Zee’s Restaurant, 600 Florida Avenue NW, posted at the LeDroit Park list.

Hello from all of us Zee`s. Thanks to Ledroit Park not only for the warm welcome into the neighborhood but for being as excited for us as we are ourselves. We look forward to sharing as much of Trinidad with you as we can.

We are working on our beer and wine license and hope to have it in hand before the holidays. In the meanwhile, check out the updated menu and some great pictures of Zee`s customers on Facebook.

The best part of embarking on this new adventure is that we have all of you as our travelling companions.

Happy Halloween

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 10/31/2010

Open houses for tomorrow can be found here. A map of the same information, complete with directions can be found here. Scroll over the push pins for info on each property.

The house pictured above is located at 65 Adams St NW and will be open from 1-4pm.

Update on Local Crime Issues and MPD Response

This top Email is from ANC 5C04 Commissioner John Salatti:

Many thanks, Commander, for the quick response to this uptick in crimes in this area. Commissioner Davenport is right. Overall, as you know, crime is down and most violent crime is down. The neighborhood has seemed quite a bit safer than just a few years ago, much to my surprise given the tight economy. But incidents like the ones below are very unsettling even in the face of declining crime stats. So we all appreciate your quick action. Of course, we will continue our collaborations with you and the Fifth District, which have contributed to the continued overall improvement in safety in and around Bloomingdale.

--

John T. Salatti

Commissioner, ANC 5C04

(202) 986- 2592

``Together, Building a Better Bloomingdale``

On Thu, Oct 28, 2010 at 8:18 PM, Greene, Lamar (MPD) dc.gov> wrote:

We assigned about twenty more officers to the area, they are already making progress on the burglaries and robberies, we hope to make arrest soon! We have noticed the patterns and we are focusing on them!

Commander Lamar D. Greene

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: stuart davenport gmail.com>

To: Greene, Lamar (MPD); Salatti, John T. (ANC 5C04) gmail.com>

Sent: Thu Oct 28 19:51:48 2010

Subject: Residents beaten on 2nd street.

Commander Greene-

There has been another rash of crime in the neighborhood and it is getting pretty violent.

See these posts below (attack in a home with a kitchen knife, beatings, muggings).

It is rare, but it is very violent. People are getting comfortable with doing this in our neighborhood - where it has seemed pretty safe and quiet for about a year.

Can we get more of a police presence for an amount of time? Do you currently know of these issues and do you already have a plan in place?

Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help. We can help get the word out to people if you are looking for anything specific.

-Stuart Davenport

Commissioner 5C-03

202. 549. 6996

1. guests beaten & robbed last night on the 1800 block of 2nd St NW

From a 2nd Street NW resident who was assaulted on this block before:

Last evening around 11pm, my guests, driving in from Baltimore, were just getting of their car, right under the street light opposite my home in the 1800 block of 2nd St NW. A ``person`` walked by them as they were getting out, turned around, hit my female guest in the neck & grabbed her bag, carrying credit cards, jewelry, my house keys etc. Her she fell down, and her husband came to her rescue, and was savagely beaten on the head with something (maybe a bottle) in a paper bag.

Police & ambulance were called - they were taken to the hospital. Tomorrow I will have to get my door locks changed AGAIN !!!! - this is getting very old. He is a Gospel preacher from Michigan, and visits the Churches in this area about every 3 months - very sad.

Update - my guests have now left (were going to stay through weekend) - said that they would think very seriously about visiting me again - At the hospital, they both were given MRI, and he had to have 3 stiches in his head.

2. Home Robbed by Man with a Kitchen Knife

From a 1st and R Street NW resident

House My home at 1st and R, NW was broken into early Friday morning. I have no idea if the thieves were black, white, asian or latino. I do know that they broke in with the use of a large kitchen knife that was left inches from the head of a friend who was sleeping on the couch. There were 5 of us and a dog in the house at the time of the robbery. Nobody woke up and nobody was hurt. Just wanted to give a heads up to all neighbors to keep an eye out for anyone lingering around the neighborhood looking suspicious. Thanks.

3. Man Beaten and Robbed in Bloomingdale

local resident

I was actually robbed Monday, October 25 at night in Bloomingdale by a young black male with a heavy coat. I just wanted to say that I appreciate your honesty in wanting to look out for people who live in the Bloomingdale and the connecting communities of Ledroit Park and Howard University area. After your reading your post I feel comfortable to even admit that it happened. I also would like to say to everyone to please be careful of your surroundings and not let your guard down. And to please report any suspicious activity happening in our community. It`s really important, I wouldn`t anyone to experience being robbed as I did.

At McMillan site, compromise could be beautiful

At McMillan site, compromise could be beautiful

by Malcolm Kenton • October 29, 2010 12:52 pm

While the discussion surrounding the future of the McMillan Sand Filtration Site has been polarized, there is actually plenty for everyone to agree on. A compromise is sure to emerge since few are happy with the site as it sits: unused and inaccessible.

Matt Bell (left) and Dennis Byrd listen to Bloomingdale residents outside Big Bear Cafe (Photo by Malcolm K.)

Unfortunately it took neighbors flatly rejecting the original proposal before planners went back to the drawing board. But the development team Vision McMillan Partners (VMP) has hired landscape architects Warren Byrd and Matt Bell to engage the community in a collaborative design process. This should result in a vision of a place that the neighborhood, the city, and perhaps even the nation, can be proud of.

Of course, there are a handful of people on either extreme. On one end of the spectrum is turning the entire parcel into a park; on the other is the construction of tall, densely packed buildings. But most of the people I spoke to, and who Byrd and Bell have heard from, fall somewhere in between.

Byrd and Bell hosted a series of "design salons," at which their only goal was simply to listen to whoever came to share their ideas. They will formally present the findings from all of the salons to the community on Saturday, November 6th, at St. Martin's Church at North Capitol and T Sts. NW. I attended the last salon of the series, held this past Monday evening at the Big Bear Cafe.

There is broad consensus that a significant chunk of the 25-acre rectangular parcel should be open greenspace. Many felt that a green corridor that welcomes pedestrians and cyclists should be the center of the new "village," recreating the sense of contiguous green that was part of the McMillan Commission's original vision. Most also feel that a mix of housing and retail is also desirable, but simultaneously don't want to see something imposed upon the neighborhood that is out of keeping with the architecture and scale of its surroundings.

August 2010 satellite image of the site (Google Maps).

Bell and Byrd have heard a plethora of creative ideas, from having all the restaurants in the development use food grown on-site, to all sorts of uses for the cylindrical sand bins that sit there as remnants of the water purification plant. Many brought up the idea of daylighting a now-underground creek that flows across the site's southeastern corner and making it a focal point of the new neighborhood.

Using a chunk of the site for solar power generation is another possibility. It is also likely that the project will make use of sustainably-sourced building materials and energy and water-saving design techniques.

VMP is still faced with the substantial task of allaying neighbors' concerns about what the new facilities will bring to the area, primarily car traffic. Many development supporters insist that the project include improved transit service. While a planned Michigan Avenuestreetcar line would connect the site with the Red Line at Brookland, the construction is likely to be finished well before streetcar service begins operation.

In the meantime, VMP could sponsor shuttle service to the Metro (a la the H Street Shuttleto Gallery Place and Minnesota Avenue Metros), and could offer incentives for bicycling, including bike valet service and a Capital Bikeshare station or two. WMATA should also consider increasing the frequency of the 80 and H-series Metrobuses that serve the area. Of course, some additional parking will also be necessary, hopefully in the form of underground decks on the outer edges of the site.

I left the design salon with a high degree of confidence that something great will become of the long-dormant McMillan site. This process shows that an organized neighborhood that is willing to cooperate with developers and the city government can exert a positive influence on the shape of new development. The community's involvement will almost surely be reflected in a place designed to complement and augment both its natural and human-made surroundings.

"It's a site of potential national prominence that deserves a world-class development: something people are drawn to and inspired by," said northern Bloomingdale resident and salon attendee Todd Crosby. "It can have retail and residential, but it should be a place for building community pride and city identity."

Let us seek such a transformation of this unique property, incorporating the historic structures, resurrected creek, and future streetcar station into a model for durable design that effectively blends the public and the private and harmonizes buildings with the landscape.

guests beaten & robbed last night on the 1800 block of 2nd St NW

From a 2nd Street NW resident who was assaulted on this block before:

Last evening around 11pm, my guests, driving in from Baltimore, were just getting of their car, right under the street light opposite my home in the 1800 block of 2nd St NW. A ``person`` walked by them as they were getting out, turned around, hit my female guest in the neck & grabbed her bag, carrying credit cards, jewelry, my house keys etc. Her she fell down, and her husband came to her rescue, and was savagely beaten on the head with something (maybe a bottle) in a paper bag.

Police & ambulance were called - they were taken to the hospital. Tomorrow I will have to get my door locks changed AGAIN !!!! - this is getting very old. He is a Gospel preacher from Michigan, and visits the Churches in this area about every 3 months - very sad.

Update - my guests have now left (were going to stay through weekend) - said that they would think very seriously about visiting me again - At the hospital, they both were given MRI, and he had to have 3 stiches in his head.

don't forget the free college planning seminar from Bloomingdale resident Chuck Donalies

From Bloomingdale resident Chuck Donalies:

Free College Planning Seminar

Place: Mt. Bethel Baptist Church
75 Rhode Island Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Date: Friday, October 29
Time: 6:30PM - 7:45PM

Just in time for Halloween, come learn about one of the scariest subjects facing people today: How to save for a child`s college education.

Child care will be provided at the church so that parents can attend.

Presented by Bloomingdale resident and financial planner Chuck Donalies. Special thanks to the kind people at Mt. Bethel for allowing me to hold this event!

seeking a mentor

See this 10/27/2010 message from Bloomingdale resident Rene Wallis:

Neighbors:

I have an 18 year old teen mom living with me. She is between 11th and 12th grade, and is attending Cordozo High School. It would be extremely amazing if someone from the neighborhood was willing to help her understand what it means to be college-ready, visit some colleges, take a college placement test (i.e., is she ready for college level math and English), give us help looking for and applying for scholarship money. This might take 4-6 hours a month, to be done right, maybe twice a month getting together and one ``site visit`` to a university every month or month and a half (Univ of Md, Northern VA Com. College, etc) to experience and consider college life, etc.

The right person is extremely patient, has experience or is willing to learn about working with kids with childhoods with many disruptions, has a FABULOUS sense of humor and will enjoy spending time with a funny, smart and lively young lady. The baby is 10 months old and is also absolutely adorable. The young lady gave me the go ahead to ask for help from this list serve. You can email me at renewallis134@gmail.com.

seeking referrals for a contractor to build a carport

See this request:

We are looking for referrals for a contractor to build a carport. This will be a very straight-forward job, a couple yards of concrete, some 6x6 posts and a roof. We want the job done fast and right, so anyone who has had a good experience with a contractor with this kind of work, let us know in the comments.

thanks to John Salatti & others for helping to clean up Bloomingdale Court

See this 19/27/2010 message from a Bloomingdale Court resident:

John Salatti (not pictured), along with a few residents of Bloomingdale Court NW and the surrounding streets, took part in a ``Clean the Court`` day last Saturday, October 23. We worked for almost 5 hours to pull weeds, remove trash, collect bulk trash items to be picked up by the city, and generally beautify the small alley court of carriage homes.

Thanks to John, Lou, Andy, Beverly, and Lindsey for the hard work!

two suspicious 20-something black males milling around the neighborhood

See this 10/26/2010 message from a Rhode Island Avenue NW resident:

I`ve noticed that there are two early twenty something black males milling about at the intersections of 4th/Florida/3rd/Rhode Island NW. One has mid-back length dreadlocks and the other a close cut skin fade, slender build with a thuggish gait. The one with dreads was the one on a bike and the other (wearing an awful sub-zero winter coat - too hot for yesterday`s weather) was walking either in front or behind. Yesterday, as I was crossing Rhode Island Avenue, headed north on 3th street NW I noticed that they slowed their pace considerably in order for me to walk in front of them. I realized this and immediately shot across the street (it`s the BedStuy Brooklyn in me that sensed that these cats were up to no good). Anyway, they noticed my redirection across the street and turned around to head south on 3rd, back across Rhode Island
Avenue.

I got in my car and called 911 - it was obvious that these folks were looking to do a quick job to someone coming home from the Metro or some other pedestrian on foot. I flagged down a cruiser at R and 5th NW and just as I was talking to the officer, by us they strolled. It`s clear that they are taking the route to the east from Shaw Metro into LeDroit and Bloomingdale.

Be aware of your surroundings and don`t hesitate to call the police should you get a sense that you are being followed or are otherwise in danger.

And, for those who want to know, I too am a black male and have no malice intended by my aforesaid description.

a neighbor wants to know: What's the scoop with the abandoned untenanted 143 Rhode Island Avenue NW apartment building ?

See this general request:

Can you tell me the story, if there is one, on 143 Rhode Island Ave. NW?

It's the big, striking looking apartment building that seems to have been abandoned
for as long as I can remember.

seeking nearby track open for running

See this request from a 1st Street NW resident:

I`m a Bloomingdale resident on the 1800 block of North Capitol, and I am hoping to find a track open for running anywhere in the area. Is there access to the McKinley High School, Dunbar High School or the Howard tracks? Are there certain access points or hours? I walked to McKinley, but couldn`t find how to access the track.

.

Eckington resident Jamie Triplin-Hines: Are we really building bridges?

This message is from Eckington resident Jamie Triplin-Hines:

Dear Community Leaders and Civic Engagers,

Are we really building bridges? When me and my family moved to the Eckington/Edgewood area last year, I was directed to my civic association, list servs, ANC 5C, and other entities. It is very disheartening to see and hear how there are so many people who “want to change their community,” yet, they fight (even physically)
amongst each other.

I find it difficult to see true community efforts—efforts that don’t have one individual person’s or group’s political agenda attached to it. Bigotry, intimidation tactics, cronyism, corruption, lack of professionalism, and so many other issues steal the livelihood and enrichment that ALL of our neighborhoods offer. It really is a shame that we do not utilize all of our individual resources/skills to come together on behalf of the common good.

We all claim we are tired of the “petty politics” at the highest level of district government, but it seems to have trickled down to even the lowest level of public service in our ward. There are some of us out here that truly want to be a part of their communities and make that real change without all of the politics.

I truly hope that with the new year rapidly approaching, we can learn to put aside the pettiness and make better use of our time. I, for one, plan to become more deeply involved with my community—even if I have to begin building these bridges by myself.

I am looking to work with likeminded individuals. Feel free to contact me at anytime.

Kind Regards,

Jamie Triplin-Hines, MPA
www.thinkwritedevelop.com
202- 681- 2278

McMillan Sand Filtration Site Community Meeting #2 – Saturday, 11/6/2010

See this message from Tania Jackson:

McMillan Sand Filtration Site

Meeting #2: What We Heard- Design Principles & Approach

Join us for a discussion of the elements that will go into the final design plan, based on the feedback the design team got in Meeting #1 and the Salon Sessions at Big Bear. This is Meeting #2 of a three meeting series and will give you a chance to meet and talk to the design team, get a schedule for future meetings, and learn how to share all of your ideas.

Saturday, November 6, 2010
9 AM to 12 NOON
St. Martin`s Church
1908 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(Enter on T
Street NW)

The Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development
Councilmember Harry ``Tommy`` Thomas, Jr.
Vision McMillan Partners

Questions?
Call: Tania Jackson (202) 355- 8998

seeking referrals for blow-in insulation contractors

See this request:

I am looking for recommendations on contractors who do blow-in insulation. I am interested in all thoughts, but would especially like to hear from people who had the work done 2+ years ago and are still satisfied with the quality of the installation.

seeking referrals for housecleaning service

See this request from a neighborhood resident:

I am seeking a recommendation or two for a good home cleaning service (i.e. 2x per month) in the neighborhood.

.

Chuck Donalies: free college planning seminar

See this message from Bloomingdale resident Chuck Donalies:

Free College Planning Seminar

Place: Mt. Bethel Baptist Church
75 Rhode Island Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Date: Friday, October 29
Time: 6:30PM - 7:45PM

Just in time for Halloween, come learn about one of the scariest subjects facing people today: How to save for a child`s college education.

Child care will be provided at the church so that parents can attend.

Presented by Bloomingdale resident and financial planner Chuck Donalies. Special thanks to the kind people at Mt. Bethel for allowing me to hold this event!

5D Commander Greene: two adults occupying van on unit blk of Randolph NW arrested for various narcotic violations

I have copied a post to the MPD-5D list at Yahoogroups by Fifth District Commander Lamar Greene:

In reference to the below incident, the Fifth district responded during the week and arrested two adult subjects occupying the vehicle for various narcotic violations!!

I am posting this message from a resident on Randolph Place NW in Bloomingdale in PSA 501:

Residents of Randolph Place, N.W. (unit block) and surrounding streets, please take note: There has been a black Chevy Avalanche truck (newer model, 4 doors, plastic pick-up bed cover), VA tag with two black males (one bearded) sitting in it on Randolph Place, N.W., for the past 4 or more days. They are constantly in the car, and seem to be selling drugs, as people on bikes and on foot stop by their window. They may also be scoping out cars and/or houses, and noting the comings and goings of residents. The two men just sit there and appear to eat, drink, get high, and essentially live in the truck. Please keep an eye out for them, and if you see anything suspicious, report their location and activity to 911, identifying the truck and tag. They keep moving the truck every hour or so to a different portion of the block - and now that the block is being resurfaced by a road crew, they may have moved their activities to a different nearby block during the road work, so everyone look out please.

repaving of Flagler Place & the 100 block of U Street to start Monday; street sweeping suspended

From ANC 5C04 Commissioner John Salatti:

I have attached a letter that was hand delivered yesterday to all of Flagler Place; the 100 blocks of U, V, W, and Adams Streets; and the 2100 and 2200 blocks of 1st and 2nd Streets NW. However, I am sending the letter to be posted so others in the neighborhood are aware of this project and the impacts it may have. To limit the impact on parking, DC Water and I requested that DPW suspend street sweeping this coming week on all the blocks were the letter was delivered. DPW readily agreed to help out. So people should be able to park anywhere this coming Monday and Tuesday. The goal is to give residents maximum flexibility to park while the streets are being repaved.

Thanks for posting this information.

John
--
John T. Salatti
Commissioner, ANC 5C04
(202) 986- 2592
John.Salatti@gmail.com
``Together, Building a Better Bloomingdale``


October 22, 2010

Dear Neighbors:

The final phase of the Flagler-U water line replacement project gets under way next week with the affected blocks being milled and repaved. This work will start this Monday and run through Wednesday with the work day going from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Of course, this schedule is dependent on the weather; I note that the forecast is for a few showers on Monday and scattered thunderstorms on Tuesday. I have asked DC Water and its contractors, if bad weather suspends work, to notify Parking Enforcement that no work is going on that day so that residents can park without fear of tickets.

Each day only a piece of the entire project area will be worked on. The current schedule is as follows:

• Monday: the 2200 block of Flagler and the intersection of Flagler and Adams
• Tuesday: the 2000 and 2100 block of Flagler
• Wednesday: the 100 block of U Street and the intersection of Flagler and U

Of course, parking is our biggest concern. Here is what you need to know about parking.
• On the block(s) that are being worked on any one day, no parking will be available during work hours.
• You can park on the other blocks in the project area without incident.
• After work ends at 5:00, you can park, for the most part, on the block or blocks that were part of that day`s work. Each section should be milled and paved completely in one day.
• To abide by the rule requiring contractors to give residents 72 hours` notice before restricting parking, No Parking signs should appear on the all along Flagler Place and around the intersection of Adams and Flagler today letting you know that parking on that block and around the intersection will be restricted on next week.
• To ease parking problems, DC Water and I have asked DPW to suspend street sweeping operations next week on the 100 blocks of Adams, W, V, and U, and the 2100 and 2200 blocks of 1st, 2nd, and Flagler. DPW agreed. Thus, you can park on either side of all those streets Monday and Tuesday of next week without getting a ticket. If for some reason you get one, please let me know and I`ll get it waived.
• If any one needs to get their vehicle out of the way for those days next week, I have secured 10 off-street parking spaces in the neighborhood in the north part of the work area and 10 in the south part of the work area. If you`d like to have your car parked off the street on the day work is happening on your block, please let me know. Spots are available to people on a first-come, first served basis.

Hopefully, by Wednesday, all this will be over and we`ll have a few quiet months. You all have done a great job of making this project go smoothly and working with the disruptions. I applaud you. Contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

Always at your service,
John Salatti,
Commissioner

a claim that 65 Adams was a foreclosure sale: any info available?

From an Adams Street NW resident:

I heard from a neighbor that 65 Adams NW was a foreclosure sale, but there's no
update on the DC property sales database. Just curious if anyone in the know has
any info on the buyer and sales price.

? any info about a fire on the unit block of T Street NW?

See this message from a resident of S Street NW:

There appears to have been a fire on the unit block of T NW, likely #14, right next to the alley close to North Capitol St NW.

Earlier in the week, the alley was blocked off with debris and the house is now boarded up. It looks like it may have also affected #16.

interior staircase baniser replace/repair

See this request from a U Street NW resident:

Bloomingdale resident looking for someone who has had their interior staircase banister replaced or significantly repaired -- for a referral to someone who can remove our metal railing and install a wooden bannister. Email Patrick: pmblais@gmail.com with details and carpenter's contact info. Greatly appreciated.

Please also post your referrals here on the blog.

Come and meet the Landscape Architect for the McMillan Development - this Monday at the Big Bear Cafe!

Landscape Architect, Warren Byrd, will be at the Big Bear Cafe this Monday, October 25th to meet with residents and discuss design ideas one on one.

If you are interested in meeting with the architect responsible for the park space and landscape design in the development of the old McMillan Sand Filtration Site please come and meet with Mr. Byrd in person.

Appointments will be between 6pm and 8pm.

Contact Tania Jackson to schedule and appointment at:

mcmsalon@gmail.com

To learn more about the architect and to see his portfolio of past projects you can see his firm's website here:

http://www.nbwla.com/

There will also be traffic studies, water runoff studies, and other information

available for your review.

We look forward to seeing you.

Location:

Big Bear Cafe

1700 1st Street, NW

Washington, DC

Monday, Oct. 25th

6pm-8pm

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale scheduled for 10/24/2010

Here is the list of open houses scheduled for Sunday and here is the map with essentially the same info. Scroll over the push pins on the map to get details on each home.

and here is a painter referral

A painter referral here from a Thomas Street NW resident:

This young man is truly a very good painter whom I wish to recommend. ``Friendly and reasonably priced professional painter will take any painting jobs, big and small, that need to be handled with care. Will come out for a free estimate. Call Luis Fernando at 240- 505 1747 or email luguizaBal1972@hotmail.com.

here is a plumber referral

See this plumber referral:

I`d like to provide a referral to a GREAT plumber. I found Mike Reid about 3 years ago, and he is the only plumber I'll use. He`s resourceful, honest, prompt, appears with little-to-no notice, and will accommodate my crazy work hours. His number is 202 577 1114. Tell him Margot from 2nd Street NW sent you.

seeking referrals for roofing company

The perpetual referral request here – from a 1st Street NW household:

Do any of you have positive roofer recommendations? We are looking for a good roofing company or roofer for work on the flat roof of our building/home. If you have a recommendation please send to me (Liz) at bloomingdaledc @ hotmail.com.``

And post your referral commments here on the blog as well. Thanks.

seeking referrals for a certified reading specialist

See this request from an Adams Street NW resident:

Looking to hire a certified reading specialist to tutor an 11 year old child. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I live in the Bloomingdale area. Also if anyone has any suggestions of programs that can be purchased to help with reading fluency and spelling please let me know.

a shout-out for Red Toque restaurant at 6th & R I Ave NW

See this message from a Randolph Place NW household:

Just want to give kudos to Red Toque, the Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean restaurant that just opened up in the Shaw Eco Village's former bike shop at 6th and Rhode Island Avenue NW.

The food is very good and very affordable, and owner Seth (Hussain pre-9/11, he told us, a sad commentary on our times) is very gracious and kind.

Bloomingdale/LeDroit Park listing is UT "Deal of the Week"

Bloomingdale/LeDroit Park listing is featured on www.urbanturf.com as this week's "Deal of the Week"!

two Design Salons on the McMillan Sand Filtration site development: 10/18/2010 and 10/25/2010

See this 10/16/2010 message from Tania Jackson:

Thanks to all of the people who came out today for our first McMillan Sand Filtration Site Planning Meeting. We had a great turnout and hope to capitalize on that, and expand attendance.

We`ll be holding Design Salons where interested individuals can meet one on one with the design team. These are the two dates:

o Monday, October 18 6-8PM with Matt Bell, Urban Design Architect -- here is an update from Tania Jackson: tonight's first salon will be held at Big Bear Cafe, 1st & R Street NW in Bloomingdale
o Monday, October 25 6-8PM with Warren Byrd, Landscape Architect


Please call me or email mcmsalon@gmail.com to schedule yourself into these two sessions.

We will be holding two more meetings at St. Martin’s Church:

o Saturday, October 30 9-12 (preliminary design concepts with recap of feedback)
o Saturday, November 20 9-12 (final concept plan)

Please also feel free to email or call me with questions.

Thanks,

Tania
(m) (202) 355-8998

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale for 10/17/2010

Lots of open houses to visit on a beautiful, crisp Fall day! Here's the list of open houses and here is the map. To see info on the individual listings, scroll over the push pins on the map. I'll be at #3 today (1962 2nd St NW #2...pictured above). Come by and say "hi"!

Another Bloomingdale Property on PoP

I showed this then un-renovated rowhome in 2002. My client thought I was crazy when I told him these houses would eventually sell over $400,000. Check out what it did sell for a few years later.

funding approved for North Capitol Main Street Litter Cleanup Assistance Program through the 2011 fiscal year

See this welcome message from North Capitol Main Street:

FUNDING APPROVED FOR CLEAN AND SAFE PROGRAM THROUGH 2011

North Capitol Main Street is pleased to announce approval of its grant proposal submitted to the DC Department of Small & Local Business Development for continued funding to support the highly popular NCMS Litter Cleanup Assistance Program --through the 2011 fiscal year. In addition to keeping our streets clean - all those beautiful corner pots and hanging planters are the work of the Clean Team and further improvements are in the pipeline for 2011.

Residents, NCMS businesses and business patrons are all pleased with the results achieved by the Clean & Safe team. Catania Bakery owner, Nicole Tramonte, commented that the difference in the streetscape in front of her business is remarkable - "It's never been so clean! Friday and Saturday night were just disasters!!" She said because of the high pedestrian traffic on her block, the trash was so high in the past she couldn't keep up with it alone. She is thrilled with the service.

Tell us how you like the work of the Clean Team and what we could do better. Share your thoughts at www.ncmsinc.org .

North Capitol Main Street is funded by The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development and is an officially recognized DC Main Street Program.

James Fournier responds to 10/15/2010 Washington Blade article

Candidate for ANC 5C07 commissioner in the November 2010 primary election James Fournier asked to have this Email thread posted on the blog:

From: James Fournier
Date: October 16, 2010 10:13:00 AM EDT
Subject: Letter to the editors concerning inaccurate facts in ``Gay incumbents face opposition in ANC races``

Oct 15, 2010 05:46:18 PM, james.fournier wrote:

===========================================

Dear Mr. Chibarro and editorial staff:

The October 14, 2010 electronic edition of the Blade published a piece entitled ``Gay incumbents face opposition in ANC races``.

In the piece, reporter Lou Chibbaro states that:

``In Ward 5, gay incumbent Barrie Daneker, who represents SMD 5C07 in the city`s Bloomingdale neighborhood, is facing a challenge from attorney James Fournier. Fournier states on his campaign website that Daneker didn`t adequately reach out to his constituents over a controversial liquor license application in the district and has not adequately handled a controversial proposal to develop the site of the city`s former water filtration plant near North Capital Street and Michigan Avenue.

Daneker said he has a two-term record of working closely with constituents and soliciting their views on a wide range of issues, including the water filtration site and the liquor license flap. He told members of the Gertrude Stein Democratic Club Monday night his outspoken support for the city`s same-sex marriage equality law was controversial in a ward where many residents strongly opposed the law.

Ward 5 Council member Harry Thomas Jr., who angered many of his constituents by voting for the marriage bill, endorsed Daneker`s ANC re-election bid. Thomas won the Democratic nomination for his own seat by winning the primary in September by a comfortable margin despite organized opposition led by same-sex marriage opponents.

Daneker said some of that same opposition may be seeking to oust him from office in the ANC race.

Fournier could not be immediately reached.`` (emphasis added).

I have never been contacted by anyone from the Blade for comment on any story - ever.

Second, I wholly support gay marriage, which the Blade would have known had it bothered to contact me. Third, I grew up in Northern California and lived in Berkeley, San Francisco, New York City and Washington, D.C. and probably have more gay friends than straight ones and have been to my several gay unions over the years – another fact that would have been pointed out had the Blade bothered to contact me.

The Blade also would have known this if it had bothered to read the brief biography posted on my website. Mr. Chibarro inaccurately refers to my website, yet manages not to cite it, not to quote it, and fails to even present the website address.

There is not much of a connection between ones sexuality and whether you are a decent ANC Commissioner (or if there is it escapes me). The issues that people actually care about in SMD 5C07 are listed on my website at www.jamesjfournier.com and certainly are not limited to the issues referenced in Mr. Chibbaro`s piece.

The Blade`s piece is inaccurate and poor journalism. Commissioner Daneker`s comments reflect a transparently desperate effort for public sympathy three weeks prior to an election after four years of grandstanding and failing to grasp the fundamentals of what it means to be a good ANC Commissioner.

James Fournier

reminder: "meet the experts" McMillan Sand Filtration site community meeting this morning, 10/16/2010

Here is a reminder message from Tania Jackson about this morning's community meeting on the development of the landmarked McMillan Sand Filtration site.

McMillan Sand Filtration Site
Meeting #1: Meet the Experts

Join for a re-visioning of McMillan Sand Filtration site. Meet and talk with the design team: Matthew Bell of Ehrenkrantz Eckstut & Kuhn Architects and Warren Byrd of Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects.

This is meeting #1 of a three meeting series.

Saturday, October 16, 2010
10 AM to 12 NOON
St. Martin`s Church
1908 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(Enter on T Street NW)

The Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development
Councilmember Harry ``Tommy`` Thomas, Jr.
Vision McMillan Partners

Questions? Call: Tania Jackson (202) 355- 8998

WBJ: Grand opening for Rustik in Bloomingdale

From today's Washngton Busines Journal:

Grand opening for Rustik in Bloomingdale
By Missy Frederick, Reporter
Thursday, October 14, 2010, 11:01am EDT
http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/blog/2010/10/grand_opening_for_rustik_in_bloomingdale.html]
City officials will be celebrating the arrival of the first sit-down restaurant in the Bloomingdale neighborhood of D.C. Thursday evening, at a grand opening event for Rustik Tavern.

Though the event is tonight, the tavern opened to the public back in late September at 84 T St. NW. I haven`t gotten the chance to go there yet, but have heard enthusiastic things from friends in the neighborhood who have been longing for a place to hang out after hours.

The tavern serves a mix of pizza and small plates, as well as beer and wine. Have you been to Rustik yet? What are your thoughts?

North Capitol Main Street Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) moves forward

See this message from North Capitol Main Street:

STOREFRONT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT MOVES FORWARD

NCMS Storefront Improvement Program continues! We have already reported on the Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) improvements made to the exterior of China Dragon, located next door to Windows Café & Market.

By now, you've noticed the recent improvements to the exterior of Bloomingdale Wine & Spirits - new exterior paint color and the installation of new black awnings. Quite an improvement, yes?

Next up is Jam Doung Style, 1726 North Capitol Street NW, Jamaican & American food carryout. Jam Doung is slated to get spruced up with new paint, awnings and trim. All of the businesses in the SIP program have NCMS branding signs in their front windows, advising patrons of their participation in the SIP program.

In addition, more businesses are inquring about the Storefront Improvement Program with Resident Architect, Roxanne Wallace, NCMS board member and Design Committee Chair. Roxanne's leading the organization in assisting other businesses interested in design assistance. Be on the lookout for more improvement.

SIP business participants will be joining us as we commemorate with a Grand Opening celebration for their newest neighbor, Rustik Tavern, on Thursday October 14, 2010 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Grand Opening Event limited to the First 200 RSVPs -- all taken at this point.

North Capitol Main Street is funded by The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development and is an officially recognized DC Main Street Program.

seeking referrals for garden lights replacement

See this request:

Hi Everyone - I am endeavoring to replace my garden lights - I spent over 2 hours today to replace 2, injuring my hand in the process, and they don't work. If anyone can make a recommendation for someone to remove old and install new - there are 7 lights total - I would be most grateful. please e-mail me at elizabethj8560@yahoo.com. Thank you.

seeking offstreet parkng on or near the unit block of Randolph Place NW

See this request:

PARKING: I am looking to purchase a parking spot(s) or garage in south Bloomingdale, preferably on the unit block of Randolph Place, N.W. - ideally in the alley between Randolph and R Streets NW, or close to it. If anyone has a lot (or knows of a property owner with a lot) of which a certain amount is not needed and can be used for parking, please let me know. A covered parking spot(s) or garage would be perfect, but a basic private parking spot will do as well.

Barring all of this, my second-best choice would be renting a spot. Thank you.

Please reply to house@stargard.de .

seeking referrals for companies that clean gas stoves, including disconnecting the stove from the gas line

From a Rhode Island Avenue NW resident:

Does anyone know of a good company that cleans appliances? Meaning, disconnect the stove from the Gas line, take the entire thing apart, clean it, and put it back together.

seeking referrals for a contractor to remove a deck and replace fencing & gate

See this request for referrals for a general contractor:

I'm a Summit Pl NE resident looking for recommendations for a good general contractor. We're hoping to get our back deck taken down, and want to replace the fencing/gate in the front yard. Any ideas?

occupants of truck on unit block of Randolph Place NW selling drugs, etc.

I am posting this message from a resident on Randolph Place NW in Bloomingdale in PSA 501. This message has also been posted to the MPD-5D list at Yahoogroups:

Residents of Randolph Place, N.W. (unit block) and surrounding streets, please take note: There has been a black Chevy Avalanche truck (newer model, 4 doors, plastic pick-up bed cover), VA tag XKT- 9213, with two black males (one bearded) sitting in it on Randolph Place, N.W., for the past 4 or more days. They are constantly in the car, and seem to be selling drugs, as people on bikes and on foot stop by their window. They may also be scoping out cars and/or houses, and noting the comings and goings of residents. The two men just sit there and appear to eat, drink, get high, and essentially live in the truck. Please keep an eye out for them, and if you see anything suspicious, report their location and activity to 911, identifying the truck and tag. They keep moving the truck every hour or so to a different portion of the block - and now that the block is being resurfaced by a road crew, they may have moved their activities to a different nearby block during the road work, so everyone look out please.

referral for Mike Maggio, Jack of All Trades

See this 10/12/2010 message from Bloomingdale resident Colleen Morton:

Need some work done on your roof? skylights? windows? other home improvement projects? Mike Maggio (no relation to Maggio Roofing) is a Jack of all Trades. He has done several jobs for me and did excellent work at a fair price. His service standso ut because he is so communicative, on time, on budget -- and won't do more than you need.

He has a NEW email address – michaeljmaggio@gmail.com .
His cell no. is: Cell # - 202- 439- 2948.
He's also on facebook.

I know that he is light on work now -- so call him if you need something done on your home -- he is available NOW.

seeking recommendation for moving & storage company for an antique church organ

See this message from a resident of R Street NW:

I have an antique church organ (family heirloom) that I would like to have securely boxed and stored. Does anyone have a recommendation of a good moving and storage company, or other suggestion for moving and storing this piece of furniture for a few years?

police activity last night around garages bounded by V, W, 1st & Flagler NW

See this 10/12/2010 message from a Flagler Place NW resident:

I don't know if you saw or heard anything about this, but there were several police cars and a van from the office of the medical examiner in the alley between W and V, 1st and Flagler NW last night around 5:30 pm for an hour or so. They appeared to be dealing with something in one of the garages in the alley.

We didn't get a great view, so are not sure what was going on, but it appeared something was happening.

new neighborhood architect: Greg Upwall

See this message from Truxton Circle resident Greg Upwall of Studio Upwall (www.upwallarchitects.com):

Studio Upwall, was established in 2004, from a commitment to promote environmentally responsible and sustainable design practices. We offer integrated architectural services from conceptual design through construction.

Based in the Bloomingdale neighborhood of Washington DC, the firm specializes in both new construction and retrofits to existing buildings, and specializes in residential, multi-family and commercial design. With over 15 years of experience in the field, Greg is a licensed architect in California, and the District of Columbia, is a LEED Accredited Professional, Green Point Rater, Certified Passive House Consultant.

basement carpet odor

See this message from a LeDroit Park ressident:

My finished basement (with wall-to-wall carpeting) smells very funky... like B.O. but it's not B.O. It's flooded twice in the last two years, but has dried out quickly thanks to a wet vac and dehumidifier. I've noticed the odor in the last few months, can't see anything, and can't identify the source.

What kind of worker would I hire to help with this issue? Many thanks. Hoerrner @ gmail.com/.

? overly sensitive red-light camera at 1st & Rhode Island Avenue NW ?

From ANC 5C04 Commissioner John Salatti:

OVERLY SENSITIVE RED-LIGHT CAMERA AT 1ST & RHODE ISLAND NW?

I have received a complaint that the red-light camera at 1st & Rhode Island NW has gone off even when people are just making the legal right turn on red as they are traveling west on Rhode Island Avenue NW. Clearly, we have to get that fixed. But before I approach DDOT and DMV, I am checking with you to find out if others have had this problem. If indeed many people have been inappropriately ticketed, that information will bolster my case for quick action on the part of these agencies. If you have received a ticket for turning right on red or feel you have received any other type of ticket at that intersection that you feel was wrong, please write me and let me know the details.

Thanks and have a great day.
John

--
John T. Salatti
Commissioner, ANC 5C04
(202) 986- 2592
John.Salatti@gmail.com
``Together, Building a Better Bloomingdale``

1 HR Cleaners at First and T NW 24 years ago.

1 HR Cleaners
Originally uploaded by Kinorama

Open Houses in and around Bloomingdale for 10/10/2010

There are numerous open houses scheduled for Sunday 10/10. Here is the map of the same information. To see information about individual open houses, scroll over the push pins on the map.

Rustk Tavern Grand Opening Celebration: 10-14-2010

See this message from North Capitol Main Street:

Want to see the nice pretty formatted version of this message?
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=tp9zhzcab&v=0011iPQ44HokkqkW7T_-rfs13Jf9UptZ8XcV8wOqeiFacBRmdYEoM5CrUvjplUt3XBiQi7dubZ22NDfq1p7_vegLNAjaWn7Fkz5jsCDOR_QJVE%3D

Rustik Tavern Grand Opening Celebration
An Exciting New Addition to Bloomingdale

Yes, Rustik Tavern at 1st & T Street NW is now Open For Business! Join North Capitol Main Street as we celebrate the Grand Opening on Thursday, 10/14/2010 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Our small business and Main Street champions -- Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas & At-Large Councilmember Kwame Brown -- will be on hand to congratulate and welcome the newest entrepreneur to the neighborhood and you'll want to thank our councilmembers for supporting commercial revitalization in our community and encourage them to continue!

Owner, Diton Pashaj, has already exceeded expectations for his cool space as tavern and Rustik's fabulous Chef is planning a special buffet featuring paella for just $15.

Rustik, as the newest business to join NCMS, is donating proceeds from the Grand Opening to support NCMS' work -- like the Storefront Improvement Program. So stop by and welcome Rustik to the neighborhood. There will be plenty of room (the patio will be open) the music will be hot and the food will be delish . . .

Please RSVP to info@rustikdc.com. The opening is limited to the First 200 - we would love to have you all! Next time we'll make it a block party!

Register to win 2 Washington Redskins versus Philadelphia Eagles Tickets and if you don't win, hey, no problem. . . enjoy your game-night at Rustik Tavern!

North Capitol Main Street is funded by The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development and is an officially recognized DC Main Street Program.

Organic Wine Tasting at Windows Cafe -- Friday, 10/15/2010

See this announcement from Bloomingdale resident Alexandra Freidberg:

ORGANIC WINE TASTING

JOIN US FRIDAY, OCT. 15
@ 5.30PM - 7.30PM
FOR A COMPLIMENTARY TASTING
OF WINES FROM AROUND THE WORLD
@
Windows Café & Market
101 Rhode Island Ave NW (at corner of First St NW)

Calypso Organic Selections (http://www.calypso-organics.com/)

RSVP to attend the Rustik Tavern Grand Opening event coordinated by North Capitol Main Street - Thursday, 10-14-2010

See this message from North Capitol Main Street:

Join us as we celebrate! North Capitol Main Street is coordinating a Grand Opening event at just opened Rustik Tavern on Thursday, October 14, 2010 from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Our small business and main street champions – Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas Jr. & At-Large Councilmember Kwame Brown are coming to congratulate the newest entrepreneur in our neighborhood. Owner Diton Pashaj has already exceeded expectations for a well-liked sit-down pizza tavern. .

There will be a special buffet served during the event featuring salads, pizzas and paella (cooked outdoors) for $15. Rustik`s civic minded owners have already become a dues paying members of NCMS and are donating the proceeds from the opening celebration to service corridor projects. The patio will be open, the music will be hot and we all know how good the food is - Stop by and welcome Rustik to the North Capitol Main Street community. Thank our council members for supporting commercial revitalization in our community!

Please RSVP to info@rustikdc.com . The opening is limited to the First 200 – we would love to have you all! The next time we`ll make it a block party!

North Capitol Main Street is funded by The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development and is an officially recognized DC Main Street Program.

candidate for ANC 5C07 in November: Barrie Daneker

See this message from ANC 5C07 Commissioner and Bloomingdale resident Barrie Daneker:

RE-ELECT

BARRIE DANEKER
ANC Commissioner 5C07
Prosperity, Progress and Putting People First

Endorsed By:

Harry “Tommy” Thomas Jr., Councilman Ward 5
Mark Jones, Ward 5 School Board Member
Anita Bonds, Chair DCDSC and ANC 5C
Ronnie Edwards, Vice Chair ANC 5C
Mary Farmer-Allen, Commissioner 5C06
Denise Wright, Commissioner 5C05
Marshall Philips, Commissioner 5C08
Silas Grant, Commissioner 5C09
Timothy Day, Commissioner 5C10 &
Republican Candidate Ward 5 Council
Fred Allen, DCDSC Member and DC Union Leader


I’m excited to be seeking election to the ANC representing Stronghold, Bloomingdale, and Park Place communities. Together we have made great progress in many areas of our community: new alleys and curbs; fostering excellent communications with MPD over crime; Inter-generational Education Development Center in Franklin Place; to improvements at Washington Hospital Center.

My efforts with the Mayor resulted in all 5C07 city owned vacant properties being auctioned off , now rehabilitated and new families moving into those homes. With the support of active community members, CM Thomas, and I; we have had walkthroughs the neighborhood to point out issues for DOT, MPD, and DPW that needed attention. We have seen great results on a great many of those issues. By fostering relationships and communications with Howard U and Catholic U, we have seen great successes in reducing noise and public nuisance issues. With the help of the CAC along with Cmd. Green of MPD, there has been attention given to areas of the community with respect to drug related, auto-theft and home evasion crimes. The institution of the Visitor Parking Pass Program has also been a great success.

Let’s not lose site, the McMillan Sand Filtration development project which was acquired 30 years ago and has been revived again. I have spent the past 3 years working with other members of the McMillan Advisory Group, CM Thomas, Office of Economic Development, and VMP Partners, to help shape this site plan and to keep this project on track. The signs of progress are just now starting to show with the opening of Rustic Tavern and the soon to open Boundary Stone in Bloomingdale Center. My voting record attests to the support for local small businesses. My background in affordable housing and financial services along with my expert contacts in the areas of architecture, architectural preservation, water filtration and engineering have been a great asset to the shaping of the McMillan development.

If you desire a fair, equitable and balanced plan for McMillan and a Commissioner who represents the major interests of the overwhelming majority of our neighbors who have longed for development of McMillan. If you desire a development that provides jobs; integrated independent senior living; affordable work-force housing; service orientated retail meeting the needs and desires of our community; “smart” preservation of McMillan; and good urban planning and design with 1/3 green/public, 1/3 residential, and 1/3 commercial/office space then I ask you to support me November 2nd.

Much more needs to be accomplished, and the work is never done. This year is a very important election to ensure progress keeps moving forward here in DC and the country. I need your support and vote on November 2nd. This election I have an opposition for my seat, and the special interest groups have entered the political arena; out of the gate, the negative attacks have started. As in the past and now, I have stayed away from negative campaigns and prefer to focus on people, issues and continue progress in our community.

Many of my opponent’s supporters have used questionable tactics, threats and lawsuits to stop development of the site and to deny residents the amenities we have long sought in ANC 5C. I have worked hard with DC Economic Development Partnership to help attract first class retail to the area, along with being a strong advocate for reputable local small businesses looking to locate here in Ward 5 and in DC. So don’t let your voice not be heard or drowned out by outside special interest groups, their money. As always, to maintain integrity and transparency in my bid for office; I do not accept campaign contributions from special interest groups, political groups, or even you, my neighbors and voters of SMD 5C07. Let your voice be heard! I ask is for your support and vote on November 2nd, get the VOTE OUT!
Vote Barrie Daneker for ANC 5C07

brdaneker@hotmail.com
202 - 986 - 8781.

Truxton Circle resident seeking offstreet parking

See this request:

hey there, I’m a resident @ 1st and Q st MW and am looking for off-street parking for rent close by. any ideas?

please email me terrance3000@gmail.com, or call/text: 202. 321. 4832.

Bloomingdale's Rustik listed in ZagatDC !

Rustik listed in Zagat DC!!!!!

From: Zagat Buzz [mailto:Zagat@ml.zagat.com]
Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 2010 8:18 PM
Subject: Going Rustik in Bloomingdale; Preview P.J Clarke's

Follow Us on Twitter
Become a Fan on Facebook

Going Rustik in Bloomingdale
Published in Coming Soon

Courtesy of Rustic Tavern

Just-opened Bloomingdale arrival Rustik Tavern offers artisanal pizzas fired in a wood-burning oven, plus inexpensive designer sandwiches, small plates and plenty of craft brews and wines; the snazzy-looking digs feature a fanciful mural depicting an Albanian heritage village, windowside tables overlooking the street scene and, by next spring or sooner, a patio – a scarce amenity in this up-and-coming neighborhood.

84 T St. NW; 202-290-2936

Check out the menu: http://www.rustikdc.com/#pagefood

Mehdi Mansouri has resigned "the City has proven the depth of its corruption"-seeking McMillan Advisory Group (MAG) representation from Channing St NW

See this message from ANC 5C07 Commissioner Barrie Daneker:

As you can read below, Mr. Mansouri has resigned from the MAG Group. I am hoping that we can find a resident from Channing Street who will represent the interests of the residents of Channing St. I will be out in the community over the next few weeks talking to residents on Channing Street to find someone willing to put the time and energy into helping shape this project. I`d like to thank Mr. Mansouri for his time. If anyone from Channing Street NW is interested, please feel free to email me at 5C07@anc.dc.gov or call me at 202- 986- 8781.

Sincerely

Barrie Daneker
Commissioner 5C07
Financial Sec. ANC 5C
202- 986- 8781

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Mehdi Mansouri [mailto: Mehdi@eeducation.us]
Sent: Tue 10/5/2010 4:53 AM
To: `Mehdi Mansouri`
Subject: A New Direction

To the DC Community:

Once again the City has proven the depth of its corruption and its commitment to the businesses that are running our DC Government by denying my request to do a 15 minute presentation at the upcoming public meeting that the City is arranging to show people what it has decided to do with the McMillan sand filtration. And once again most MAG members have proven their continuous submissiveness to the criminals acts of the City by not asking any questions from the City, as they didn`t for the past three or four years (hence, their participation in the crimes of the City against WeThePeople).

Since none of my efforts so far produced any changes in the direction that the City and MAG are going (other than probably the City having adopted a ``new start`` for its old tricks), I am starting a new process and direction at a much broader legal and public range. As before, this legal and public process will include everyone who is involved in pushing the McMillan process forward, and will hold them responsible for their role in deceiving people and causing astronomic, unrecoverable damages and losses for WeThePeople. As I mentioned before, McMillan will be used as an example of elements in our society that cause and support corruption and closed doors in our government system, and therefore, devastation for WeThePeople. I will send out an email in the near future to officially announce the new efforts as well as a series of websites and forums that will serve as information dissemination and discussion tools on the subject of corruption and closed DC Government, as well as corrupt businesses that are pulling the strings of our so called ``government officials`` and ``politicians.``

Since I have all the information that I need to have regarding the MAG , and since I see most MAG members shamelessly continue betraying people`s trust in them, I see there is nothing else that I can do on the MAG as a representative of people. I believe now I can be more effective in my efforts in helping to clean our DC Government by not being on the MAG. As such, I am resigning from my MAG position as of now. Kenyan will be notified once the person who will replace me is identified. However, I will continue going to the MAG meetings as myself. In the meantime, I will also continue informing my neighbors on our street about MAG reports until the new person is identified.

Best Regards,

Mehdi

McMillan Sand Filtration site Community Meeting #1 - "Meet the Experts" - Saturday, 10-16-2010

See this 10/05/2010 message from Tania Jackson:

McMillan Sand Filtration Site

Meeting #1: Meet the Experts
Join us for a panel introduction of the design team that will create the final concept plan for the site. This is Meeting #1 of a three meeting series and will give you a chance to meet and talk to the design team, get a schedule for future meetings, and learn how to share all of your ideas.

Saturday, October 16, 2010
10 AM to 12 NOON
St. Martin`s Church
1908 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
(Enter on T Street NW)

The Deputy Mayor for Planning & Economic Development
Councilmember Harry ``Tommy`` Thomas, Jr.
Vision McMillan Partners

Questions? Call: Tania Jackson (202) 355- 8998.

need to have a pulldown stairway/ladder to the attic installed -- seeking referrals

See this request from an Eckington resident:

I am looking for someone who can install a pull-down stairway/ladder to my attic in the hallway ceiling. I know there are sets you can buy at Home Depot, but I will need someone who can enlarge the existing (small-ish) hole in my upstairs hallway ceiling and do the necessary framing to support the stairs. Does anyone have a recommendation for a good company that does this kind of project? (One renovation company told me the job was too small for them to consider.) Thanks!

I am looking for someone who can install a pull-down stairway/ladder to my attic in the hallway ceiling. I know there are sets you can buy at Home Depot, but I will need someone who can enlarge the existing (small-ish) hole in my upstairs hallway ceiling and do the necessary framing to support the stairs. Does anyone have a recommendation for a good company that does this kind of project? (One renovation company told me the job was too small for them to consider.) Thanks!

water seeping through skylight -- seeking contractor referrals

See this message from a 1st Street NW resident:

After last week`s heavy rain, I've noticed some water seeping in through my skylight. It appears to just need resealed near one side. I am looking for recommendations for contractors who do this type of repair.

Halloween Haunted House at Parker Flats on Sunday, 10-31-2010

See this 10/04/2010 message from Parker Flats resident Mike Fine:

Are you ready to get schooled? Well grab your costumes and bring the kids to the first annual Bloomingdale Haunted School House hosted by the owners of Parker Flats at Gage School. On Sunday, October 31st, from 6-8pm children of all ages are welcome to come enjoy our free haunted house at located at 2035 2nd St. NW.

There will be scary characters, games, and goody bags for the little ones who are brave enough to survive the freakishly scary attractions contained inside our building!!! All children must be accompanied by an adult and there will be plenty of fun for the parents too. This is not limited to just Bloomingdale either so if you have friends with small children who live in and around DC they are welcome to stop by for a spell regardless of where they live. The indoor haunted house and goody bag distribution will happen regardless of the weather but outdoor games and some other elements may not happen if it is raining. We are working hard to put on a great show and we know anyone who comes by will love every minute of the creepy fun!!! So come on by 6-8pm on Halloween Night and get ready to be schooled...and scared!!!

Open Houses plus some Good Real Estate News

September was a super hot month for Bloomingdale, LeDroit Park, and Eckington for real estate numbers. At this moment, there are only 54 listings of available condos and houses for sale. Last month, a total of 12 homes went to settlement. An additional 12 homes are under contract since September 1st, 2010. That is a tremendous burst of activity for a single month.

There are several open houses scheduled in and around the neighborhood for Sunday 10/03. Here is the same info in a map format. Scroll over the push pins on the map to see details for each property.

new awnings installed today at Bloomingdale Wine & Spirits

Have you noticed the newly painted exterior of Bloomingdale Wine & Spirits at 1st & Rhode Island Avenue NW? A new terra cotta color?

But that's not all.

Note that new black awnings were just installed today at our neighborhood wine & spirits store.

Courtesy of North Capitol Main Street (www.ncmsinc.org).

What do you think?

Solar Homes Tour includes Bloomingdale residence

See this message from Bloomingdale resident Jeanie Osburn:

20th Annual Tour of Solar Homes in the Washington region

October 2 & 3, 2010 (11AM - 5PM)
solartour.org

There are over 70 homes on this year`s tour displaying active and passive solar features as well as other green features. And, there is a Bloomingdale home on the tour. 207 S Street, NW complete with PV panels that provide 90% of the owners` electricity usage, new energy-efficient windows, a solar-dryer, and a clothes centrifuge that allows effective use of the solar dryer even in winter will be on the tour on Sunday.

Free brochures are available for download from the above website, printed brochures are available at 207 S Street, NW on Friday evening from 6PM-8PM and all day Sunday ($5).