A New Year's Resolution For Frozen Tropics & Its Readers

I recently started reading a book that's been my list for a while.  It's Daniel Solove's The Future of Reputation: Gossip, Rumor, and Privacy on the Internet. Solove talks a lot about blogging, and also about how the internet is a completely new and different forum. His book was published in 2007, but while reading it your brain effortlessly fills in the time gap. He starts off the book by talking about a figure commonly known as "Dog Poop Girl," after she was caught on film ignoring her dog's mess on a Korean subway. The points he makes are often things we know (e.g. once it's out on the internet, it doesn't just go away), but tend to skip over in our everyday behavior.

Frozen Tropics includes a note reminding readers to be nice ("Guys, please be polite. Remember that these people are your neighbors. I ask also that anonymous users leave some kind of tag [e.g. big green cat] for the sake of being able to follow a thread. Be respectful and have fun."), but too often it's ignored. Those are rules guys, not suggestions. If you are just going to be a jerk, and not contribute anything, I'd rather you refrain from posting. I recently deleted a comment for violating this rule. It's rare that I do that, and I don't like doing it, but sometimes I have to delete those.  Seriously, if your comment is three words long, and the first two words are "Suck my" you probably aren't contributing much.

Please, let's all just show a little restraint. It's easy to just type a bunch of stuff you would never say to someone's face, and hit post/send. Someone (individual, business owner, employee) is on the other side reading whatever you typed. If you write something mean spirited, and over the top it hurts. Please don't use Frozen Tropics to lash out at people, whether they be leavers of comments, or just coming up for some other reason.

So how about we all resolve to take the extra second to leave a name, or nickname, and to try to be nice. Think before you post. I'm not saying every comment should be positive, just that we don't need to be overly mean, or make slanderous comments (which I will delete).  Let's just all try to be slightly better people online in 2010. Happy New Year!

Cold Beer and Wine

I'm finally starting to shake off this virus, and I was looking back at the recent additions to the Frozen Tropics Flickr pool when I saw the photo below, and had to laugh. Thanks to Flickr user Moravsky Vrabec (Moravian Sparrow?) for sharing.

In case you don't recogize it, this is the sign outside of Jumbo Liquor in the 1100 block of H Street.

Argonaut New Year's Day

Argonaut New Year's Menu

celebrate the new year at

the argonaut

∞

no cover

∞

4~course fixed~price menu

(optional – please call 202.460.7461 or email argonautdc@gmail.com for reservations)

∞

champagne toast to ring in the new year

∞

dj p. vo playing disco upstairs starting at 9pm

And here's the meu:

new year’s eve

$40

1^st          mixed greens salad dressed with a balsamic and honey-dijon vinaigrette

with pickled onions and crushed cashews

2^nd                  braised and grilled oxtail over collard greens

or

seared scallops with mint pesto over mixed greens

3^rd          sesame-crusted seared tuna

with white wine risotto and mixed vegetables

or

marinated and grilled beef tenderloin

with scalloped potatoes and asparagus

4^th                   classic new york cheesecake swirled into the top of a fudge brownie

Living Social: $15=$30 @Sticky Rice

Check out the coupon.

A Few Last Minute Local Options For NYE

The predicted winter weather makes staying close to home (and out of the car) an especially good idea.

Little Miss Whiskey's Golden Dollar (1104 H Street) features a dj spinning all the way into the New Year. SOLD OUT!

XII (1123 H Street) is throwing a New Year's Extravaganza featuring DJs, buffets, drink specials, door prizes, party favors, champagne toast, and more. Tickets are $25 ahead of time, and more at the door. Buy online at www.twelve2010gala.eventbrite.com. 9pm-4am.


Palace of Wonders (1210 H Street) has a special dare devil show for occasion.


The Red and the Black (1212 H Street) is doing its second annual Zombie New Year's Eve. $5 at the door gets you a champagne toast, good hellraising tunes all night, drink specials, zombie movies, zombiefied bartenders, and of course BRAAAAIIIINNNS (shots)!

Sticky Rice (1224 H Street) is taking reservations for dinner, but you'd better hurry because their website says the list is filling up fast.


The H Street Country Club (1335 H Street) offers the Last Supper and the Magical Party Pass for $50, and $65. General admission is $25 while space lasts. SOLD OUT!


The Rock and Roll Hotel (1353 H Street) is hosting a huge blowout. I previously wrote about it here.
SOLD OUT!


The Argonaut (1433 H Street) transforms its upstairs into the Disconaut for the evening. NO COVER.

Langston Bar and Grille (1831 Benning Road) is perfect for a laid-back celebration. They are providing the party favors and complimentary champagne toast at midnight. NO COVER. They now also have additional parking.


Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club (1103 Bladensburg Road) is a great off the beaten path option, and it's sure to be high on list of those who know it.

There might be other stuff happening, but these are the only events I've heard about. I'm sure the Pug will be open, I suspect that Granville's  has a special menu (call). I haven't heard anything about Sova, the Martini Lounge, or anyplace else.

A Drop in Homicides

The following went out on several local listservs, and I thought it was worth reporting here:

Dear Neighbors,


The following information is from MPD and responds to an inquiry regarding the number of homicides in the District and how it stands in comparison to another major city and previous years.


“The current number of homicides in DC stands at 138; at the same point last year, we experienced 184. This is a 25% reduction thus far this year. The 2008 total was 186. In 1991, DC recorded 479 homicides, its worst murder rate in the past 20 years. In the ensuing years, homicides progressively dropped in this city. This year, DC will record its lowest number of homicides in about four decades.”


According to MPD, this achievement recognizes the joint efforts of MPD, District agencies, residents, and other community stakeholders. Special kudos and thanks to Chief Cathy Lanier, 5D Commander Lamar Greene, 5D MPD Officers and Civilian Employees, Councilman Harry Thomas, Councilman Phil Mendelson, and to you.


Robert






Robert Vinson Brannum


Chairman, 5th District Citizens' Advisory Council, Inc. - www.5dcac.org 

These are good numbers. During a year that brought economic hard times to many, homicides actually dropped. I haven't seen the numbers for other crimes, but I'm eager to see those, and to see the PSA, by PSA breakdowns. From the same source:

CRIME STATISTICS IN THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
01/01/09 - 12/01/09

Report shows a total number of crimes captured in the Analytical Services Application crime report database made public through DC Data Catalog.  Report depicts variations in number of crimes for the period January - December in 2007 - 2009 years, shows contribution of each crime category to total, displays distribution of crimes count in DC Police Districts.

Violent crimes category includes HOMICIDE, SEX ABUSE, ROBBERY, ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON offenses.

Property crimes category includes ARSON, BURGLARY, STOLEN AUTO, THEFT, THEFT FROM AUTO offenses.

Violent Crime

POLICE DISTRICT               01/01/07 - 12/01/07       01/01/08 - 12/01/08       01/01/09 - 12/01/09

FIRST                                                     1220                                       1174                                       1079

SECOND                                               503                                         489                                         475

THIRD                                                    1417                                       1368                                       1236

FOURTH                                               941                                         862                                         863

FIFTH                                                     976                                         931                                         852

SIXTH                                                    1100                                       1171                                       1180

SEVENTH                                             1389                                       1309                                       1254

NONE                                                    61                                           42                                           35

Property Crime

POLICE DISTRICT               01/01/07 - 12/01/07       01/01/08 - 12/01/08       01/01/09 - 12/01/09      

FIRST                                                     4652                                       4755                                       4705     

SECOND                                               4364                                       4821                                       5097     

THIRD                                                    4498                                       4548                                       4562     

FOURTH                                               2346                                       2290                                       2270     

FIFTH                                                     3126                                       2805                                       2657     

SIXTH                                                    2980                                       3297                                       2857     

SEVENTH                                             2580                                       2523                                       2528     

NONE                                                    148                                         125                                         169    

Possible Short Break

I'll see what I can do about posting stuff, but please be aware that I'm SICK, and so I am likely to not make much sense, and misspell stuff a lot. I imagine we'll be back to normal by New Years at the latest. Just a warning in case I don't post, or post something that doesn't quite compute.

I finally made it back after two canceled itineraries on Northwest. The first one (which NWA told me via phone an hour before was not canceled) involved me getting up at 4AM. They also claimed that the cancellation (into Memphis) was due to weather, and ordered by the FAA. Clearly that was not the case because other airlines were flying into Memphis, and both the FAA, and the Memphis airport were reporting all clear with no delays over 15 minutes. So I don't know if a certain creep from Nigeria was responsible, or if it was some kind of other issue (E.G. Northwest recently merged with Delta, and Northwest flight crews were unionized, but Delta's weren't).  I just know that having multiple canceled flights sucks, that, and I'm NEVER using Travelocity again (except to maybe book a hotel to use the $100 off lodging voucher they finally gave me). Who in the hell (at Travelocity, when picking a substitute route) decides that Tulsa to the Twin Cities, to Detroit, to DCA sounds like a good idea? Did I mention it (if it hadn't been canceled) would have taken like 13.5 hours instead of the 4.5 hours it should take to travel that distance?


USE ORBITZ, OR SOME OTHER PROVIDER. DO NOT USE TRAVELOCITY. THEY DO NOT ANSWER THE PHONE, AND THEY WILL LIE TO YOU IF YOU EVER ACTUALLY TALK TO THEM. PLUS, THEY WILL SEND YOU ALERTS THAT YOU FLIGHT WAS CANCELED 12 HOURS AFTER IT TOOK OFF.  IF YOU ARE VERY PERSISTENT THEY WILL GIVE YOU A SMALL VOUCHER, THAT DOESN'T COVER IT. FYI, THEY APPARENTLY WON'T GIVE YOU ANYTHING AFTER YOUR TRAVEL IS COMPLETED (as per their website).  So if there are no posts, blame Travelocity.  They suck.

History Related Thoughts

Due to cancelled flights, I'm stuck out of town, and in flight delay hell.  But I am managing to make some use of the time by working on a little more history research.  I'm not going to bother just tossing about a bunch of links at the moment, but I did want to reference a site that I've mentioned before:

Cokinos Girl Blog ("Washington DC: My Hometown). This is an interesting blog written by a woman who grew up in DC, and it covers her family's history, which happens to include H Street, Trinidad, and other stuff nearby.  Here's a link to some of the H Street stuff.

***************************************

UPDATE

***************************************

I fixed the typos. Cancelled flights meant a bit of sleep cycle disruption. When I'm tired, I can't spell.

Can You Identify This Mistreated Dog's Owner?

More sad Christmas news. Hopefully someone recognizes this dog.


Interested in adopting, or fostering an animal?
Try one of these links:
Washington Humane Society
Partnership for Animal Rescue
The Washington Animal Rescue League
AdoptAPet.Com (City Cats/Dogs Rescue, Washington, DC)
Metro Pets

Further Update on the Robbery/Non-Fatal Shooting

Here's the latest from MPD-5:

On Thursday, at 11:10 am, 4 juveniles entered the market at 1364 Florida Ave NE with a handgun. They robbed the cash register of an undetermined amount of money and the male owner of the store was shot in the back of his right leg. He was transported to an area hospital in stable condition. No arrests have been made at this time.

Robbery/Non-Fatal Shooting Update

The location where I believe the shooting occurred.

Here's what I've been told:
Per MPD, the shooting occurred at 1369 A [NOTE THAT THIS IS NOT THE CORRECT ADDRESS] (a market that is presumably the One Stop) on the corner of Florida and Staples. Four black male teenagers (estimated to be between 15-17 years of age wearing hooded jackets attempted to rob the corner store. During the attempt they shot the owner in the foot, and then fled into Trinidad. This market is directly across the street from the BP station.


View Larger Map
The map shows it in the middle of the street, but it is (see the photo above) actually on the corner.

Possible Shooting on Florida Ave

I just got this on my cell. Nothing further at this point, except that I'm getting reports from residents on the scene that there is nothing happening there. No cops, not tape, nothing. The address is kind of weird, so I'll let you know when I hear more.:

Robbery/Shooting/gun/ 13654 Florida Avenue, NE/LOF: 4 B/M's 15-17 years of age with dread locs and black hooded coats/do not take action call 911 DO NOT TAKE ACTION CALL 911 W/EVENT #

Sent on: 12/24 11:44

Sent by DC Police Alert to e-mail, pagers, cell phones....powered by Cooper Notification RSAN

Urban Turf Checks Out the Oasis

The Oasis during construction
Local real estate blog Urban Turf takes a look at the Capitol Hill Oasis (do a search to find the archive postings on this one).

Christmas Soldiers

Old Theaters on H Street

Demolished in 1955, it stood at 624 H Street. Photo from the Library of Congress.

Other old theaters on H Street and Florida Ave:

[1910-?]
The Maycroft
621-23 H St NE
Outdoor theater
(Mike Rivest presentation referenced below)
Cinema Tour says it was also called the Crystal and the Pastime.

[1913-1955]
Apollo Theatre*
624 H St NE
AKA: Grandalls Apollo
 *this is also the location given for Imp Park, which is described as an outdoor theater (Mike Rivest presentation referenced below).

[1910-?]
Dixie Theatre
800-02 H St NE


[1913-?]
Empire Theatre
911 H St NE

[building permit issued in 1909, demolished 1948 per Cinema Treasures]
Princess Theater
1119 H St NE
*Mike Rivest gives a rough earliest date of 1930 for this one, also indicating that it was owned by KB.

[1938-current]
The Atlas
1333 H St NE

[1906-?]
Diamond Theatre
1342 H St NE

[1943-1952]
The Plymouth
1365 H St NE
An African-American 300 seater.
(Mike Rivest presentation referenced below).

 [1945-1977]
Langston Theatre
2501-07 Benning Road NE
Demolished
(CinemaTour)
District Theatre owned 696 seater (Mike Rivest).

[1913-1925]
Florida Theatre
1438 Florida Ave NE

The Imperial
821 12th St NE
(Mike Rivest presentation referenced below).

[1915-1952]
Home Theatre
1228-30 C St NE
(CinamaTour)
Mike Rivest says Stanley Warner owned this 645 seater.

Unless otherwise stated, I found this info here. In case you were wondering, the Atlas was built in 1938.

*************************

UPDATE

*************************

I added the Princess Theater, The Imp, The Imperial, the Maycroft, and some links above. Also check out this presentation by Mike Rivest or movie-theatre.org.

What are We SuppOSED to Capitalize aNywaY?

This post comes from a teacher I once had when I was a kid. I can't be sure which one, but I think it was Social Studies. Regardless, I wrote a paper and I capitalized "Black," but didn't capitalize "white."  The comment written on my paper told me not to capitalize one without the other. At the time I saw one, but not the other capitalized in certain circles. I've come to agree that both should be capitalized if one is, but that neither really means what it once meant. And what did these words really mean anyway? The younger we get, the more we mix, whether sexually, or just in terms of friends, we are not like our parents. I'm 31. The kids tens years younger than me are much more so. I think that is great. I'm not claiming we're a post a racial society. I know we're not, and I'm not quite sure what that even means. I do think we are moving towards a more racially integrated society on H, and maybe H Street is moving to a more class integrated society. A class integrated society is much harder.

In college I studied post-colonial lit. with a focus on Jamaica. Jamaica, for obvious reasons, has lots of interesting racial issues. A theme (and maybe this was just me) that seemed to run through it was that each generation held more hope, and as the older generation died off (or maybe changed), things got much better in terms of racial harmony. I'm not so big on the older generation dying off part (my grandmother has always been very racially progressive, and very progressive in terms of gay rights). But I understand the overall theme. I've gotten off topic. I meant to make us think about what we capitalize, and why we do so.  What does it really mean to capitalize Black, and White, when so many people are both, of a those, and/or a combo of so many other things? Sorry if this is a late night musing, but, really...what are we to do now?

A Nice Response

I saw this in the comments and felt it worth reposting.  The poster brings up some great points. I'll start with an overheard comment from the Argonaut.: "When I first started coming here a few years ago a few Black people came here, but now it's all White people. All White hipsters, that's just the way it goes." This came from a White woman with gray hair. Just because I like to count I counted three Black customers and one Black bartender (on a VERY EMPTY night) when she said that. I will say that the Argonaut has more White customers than it did Two years ago, but (having actually worked there), the clients are VERY MIXED in terms of race and class. It depends on the night, and the floor, and timing. But If you think the Argonaut is just a White place (let alone a White hipster place!)...you don't know the Argonaut. The Argo is a decent neighborhood family spot for anyone to grab a bite, or a drink. I've heard people talk about feeling uncomfortable in certain places, but I've yet to hear a single person say that about the Argo.

snirtanion has left a new comment on your post "Colbert King: DC Subsidizes H Street Partiers":

I expect that many of you have experience writing letters to the editor/op-ed's in your profession. Rather than just making snarky comments in critiquing Joe's response, why not make your voice heard with the editorial board at the Post?

Send your 200 words or less letter to letters@washpost.com including home address, e-mail address, and home and business telephone numbers. Although they likely won't publish them all, they read them and our letters can educate the editorial staff on the realities of our community.

Mine is below:

Mr. King’s attempt to shoehorn race into his discussion of the H Street shuttle (“District Subsidizes H Street Partiers”) was very disappointing to read. Although racial and class divisions remain important issues in the revitalization of the H street area, a careful analysis of the benefits of restoring funding should not be obscured by his shameful attempts at stoking emotions.

Mr. King’s sets up so strawmen, it is difficult to know where to begin. First, there are no income analyses or class barriers stopping anyone from taking the shuttle – black or white, rich or poor. In fact, the shuttle itself is free – hardly a classist pricing scheme. Thankfully, the patrons of the new H street businesses are also neither solely white nor well-to-do. As an H street homeowner, I am pleased to see our businesses filled with a cross-section of the city – including those from “different areas of the city and the surrounding regions."

The simple fact is that this area does not currently have adequate public transportation options. There is not yet an easily accessible metro station. And while the X2 and X8 are indeed options, they are regularly cited as some of the busiest and most in need of improvement bus lines in the city. If Mr. Colbert ever deigned to actually take the X2 - as I do ever day – he would find that the buses are often dirty, woefully overcrowded and traveling slow, poorly designed routes. Rather than a means of class segregation, the Shuttle simply serves as something of an express option, with less stops and a focus on expediting customers between a busy metro and our area’s main business center.

The city itself recognized this need in deciding to restore street cars. With the difficult business environment created by their construction, it is hardly surprising the city has chosen to do what it can to protect its investment. Otherwise, we could end up with the worst-case scenario: multiple transportation lines and nowhere to take them to. That would be the ultimate waste of the city’s resources. Even Mr. King should agree with that. 

Enjoying the Snowy Weekend

I just finished what will hopefully be my last attempt at shoveling the front stairs and walk. I did salt beforehand, but that won't do much against this level of snow. Yesterday around 12:30pm I ventured out with a friend on H Street to take some photos. We had planned to get a hot beverage at Sova, but ran into a couple of friends headed to the Pug. We joined up, and ended up spending the next few hours there (more friends kept calling and showing up). I hadn't been to brunch at the Pug in a while. For those who don't know, Pug serves something called Hangover Hash. Really it is sausages, more sausage, potatoes, peppers, and lots of white gravy.  You may feel your arteries beginning to clog just reading about it, but it was the perfect meal for an icy day.

The Pug had a smallish crowd when we arrived (around 1pm), but that changed fast. More neighbors showed up, and I spotted a table of folks from Sticky Rice (closed), and staff from Sova (closed), granville's (open), and the Country Club (open, I think). There was even an unplanned jam session involving a guitar, a ukulele, and an accordian.  After that I trudged over to the house of a friend where we watched Fargo, and Y Tu Mama Tambien over multiple cups of tea, ships, olives, and a small amount of Hornitos Reposado.

From there I headed home, encountering two vehicles stuck in the alley over my one block treck home. Once there I exchanged texts with friends who were considering heading to Little Miss Whiskey's for a Blizzarding Party that featured half price everything behind the bar. I was happy to stay home with a book at that point, but I heard it was quite the occasion.

How did you spend the snowy weekend?

I have a few photos to upload soon, and please share your photos by uploading them to the Frozen Tropics Flickr group.

WP: Car Jackings Alarm Capitol Hill Residents

I think we've all seen emails regarding these frightening attacks. The Post reports further .

Colbert King: DC Subsidizes H Street Partiers

The Post columnist is not too happy about the return of the publicly funded H Street Shuttle.

And here's a copy of an email sent to Mr. King in response to the column. This email was written and sent by Joe Englert:

Mr. King,

My name is Joe Englert and I own several buildings and several bars and restaurants in the H Street N.E. corridor. I am proud to be part of a group of businesses that call ourselves The Atlas District.
First, let me say, I really love your columns and your incite into the city and its neighborhoods. Thanks for being a civic treasure.
I appreciate your point of view that the H street shuttle might not be the most important thing for the city to fund at this time.
But isn't it time Northeast and other areas not-so downtown and not-so corporate got a small, small sliver of the pie? The city gave Abe Pollin a metro stop and a slew of tax breaks for his Chinatown Palace. Then Ted Lerner and sons got $700 million at the Navy Yard. Adrian Fenty is dropping swimming pools and athletic fields onto D.C. like American pilots dropping candy into post-World War II Berlin. These are guys with clout.
Sorry, but the couple of hundred of us small business men and women on H don't have a whiff of clout. We are not Fortune 500 folks. We don't get TIF funding or EZ Bonds. We don't get tax forgiveness or deference. And unlike the untold expensive programs that have spent millions on H and produced nothing; we actually are creating jobs, vision, hope and even some sales tax and property tax for the city.
Drop in for dinner some time. I will buy you a bowl of mussels or a fine Belgian Ale (As featured on the Food Network). We can play putt putt or buy an espresso or a gourmet pie. We can catch a national blues or rock act, too. Unlike the H of the past 5 decades, we can sit down for dinner, not order it through bullet-proof glass. This happened because many of us on H have put our money, passion and time on the line to create something out of a very forlorn street. About a dozen of us have spent hundreds of thousands of our own dollars to clean the streets, too. Before the H Street shuttle, we paid for our own fleet of cabs and mini-vans to transport people to and fro. We spent thousands of our own dollars for the H Street Festival. And this month, we started having our own police force on the street. Guess who foots 50% of the bill? We do, the small businesspeople of H.
I know you embraced and came to love H in a completely different era. But many, many young people and the vast majority of Metropolitan Washington have never been to H. It is hard to navigate our street during a 14 block and 36 month renovation. Why not make it easy for people to discover and cherish the neighborhood you once did as a young man?
Come and join us for a good time. We are confident we can show you the way!

Respectfully, sincerely, Joe Englert

And Because It's Cold..

DC Department of Human Services

HELP US SAVE A LIFE THIS WINTER

If you see someone who is homeless and may need assistance, call the

Hypothermia Shelter Hotline

1-800-535-7252 or 311

You could save a life.

Commissioner Fengler Resigns From ANC 6A Due to Move

He sent out the following note:

Farewell - my last letter…‏
From: Joseph Fengler
Sent: Fri 12/18/09 11:48 AM

My wife and I (and our dog Missy) purchased a home in the Lincoln Park community - just a mile to the south. Accordingly, I have resigned my position as ANC 6A02 Commissioner. It has been an honor to work with many of you over the last seven years to make our community a better place to live and work. If there is one thing I can leave with you, it would be to volunteer two hours a month to serve on an ANC 6A committee. Many of the accomplishments attributed to ANC 6A are a direct result of residents taking the time to get involved and provide insight on zoning, liquor license, and public safety issues. It is my firm belief that an ANC will only be as good as the volunteers that donate their time to make great things happen. I will be attending the ANC 6A meeting on January 14 to say my last goodbye (7pm at Miner Elementary School located at the 600 block of 15th Street, NE ). If you have a chance to attend so I can say farewell in person that would be great -- and you can volunteer for a committee!


Holiday Regards, Joe Fengler

Thunder Snow

Here's a short YouTube video of thundersnow.

It's Going to be COLD

Pick up the snow melt, and make sure you have toilet paper and a good dvd/book because you won't want to go out tomorrow morning. Forecasters are predicting a massive thunder snowstorm. The storm is supposed to dump 7-14" inches on us. That's pretty big for DC.

H Street Shuttle Returns Today

It's back, and ahead of schedule (Dec. 21st) too! Go ahead and read that press release:


H Street Shuttle to Resume Service Friday December 18th



(Washington, DC) The popular H Street Shuttle will resume its nightly service Friday December 17, 2009. The free shuttle, which connects the emerging H Street Corridor with both Chinatown and Minnesota Avenue Metro stations, ceased operations due to the end of its initial funding. Funding renewal was slow to arrive and the shuttle ceased operations after Sunday December 6th.



After a public outcry the Department of Transportation has identified funds to continue the free service through the fiscal year. Local entrepreneur Joe Englert, an owner of several popular nightlife destinations along H Street expressed great relief at the news. “I’m elated that we have the shuttle back. It’s integral to the corridor’s success have safe reliable transportation while H Street undergoes its remarkable transformation and metamorphosis. “



The shuttle, while popular, has met with some detractors who say the route mimics that of existing bus routes. “That’s not really the issue here, “ said Scott Kenison, Chief Operating Officer of the Atlas Performing Arts Center, “It’s not about whether or not patrons will ride the bus. It is about the dozens of new businesses which have taken a chance to locate in a neighborhood which has not been known as a destination for the arts and entertainment. The Streetscape project will be fabulous when it is all completed but we need to make sure these businesses to survive the process. ”



Kenison is referring to the reconstruction of H Street an extensive multi-year project which will result in new walkways, tree canopy and lighting. A final piece of the renovation will be the return of Streetcars to H Street. “We have always understood the shuttle to be a temporary solution,” said Kenison, “To mitigate the negative ramifications of the road construction and to act as a precursor to the streetcar.”



U Street Parking and Transportation runs the shuttle for the H Street Business Cooperative, a group of H Street businesses such as business, such as the Rock and Roll Hotel, the H Street Country Club, the Atlas Performing Arts Center, SOVA, the Argonaut Tavern, Granville Moore's, The Pug, Sticky Rice and many others.



U Street Parking Co-owner Ben Tesfaye was thrilled to hear he will be able to get the shuttles back up and running. “This is such great news! People really love the shuttle. Our drivers are ready to get back to work! “

Black Nativity @The H Street Playhouse

Black Nativity - December 10-January 3.
H Street Playhouse, 1365 H Street
http://theateralliance.tix.com
or call 202-399-7993 ext. 2


"Black Nativity is a celebration that tells the original story of the Nativity in scripture, verse, music and dance. Based on the Gospel of St. Luke, combined with the poetry of Langston Hughes, this song-play touches a special chord in the hearts of all."

Bus Routes D3, D4, and D8

Metro is making some changes that take effect right after Christmas. Click on the individual bus name for a route map. Metro has done a pretty good job publicizing these changes, so I'm pretty sure anyone who reads the news probably knows about these changes. But, just in case.

HSCC For Half Off

Living Social features the H Street Country Club today. The deal is you pay $25 to buy a voucher from the site, and then that $25 buys you $50 at the Country Club. Cheers! And don't forget to tip on the full amount!

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor...Plumber?

I was going to just add this to a comments thread, but they I realized that we are actually entering broken pipe season, and such info might be of use to lots of people. Does anyone know a good plumber? I'm looking to get estimates for a small shower issue that will involve replacing a diverter and some fixtures, at the least. Not a huge job, but I just need to make sure it is done right this time.

An Interesting Feature on Google Street View

I thought I'd post this after the unusual image of 519 H Street was discussed here recently.

H Street Great Street: Tao

H Street Great Street has a name for the new Asian restaurant coming to 1110 H Street. It's called Tao. The owner, who I believe is the same guy who previously wanted to open a sandwich shop called Subterranean in the same space, also has a place on U Stree t.

Wonderment, an Exploration of the Indeterminate @Studio H

Press release:

Studio H Gallery and Workshop presents
“Wonderment, an Exploration of the Indeterminate”
a group show by: Katherine Mann, Kim Manfredi and Jenny Mullins
Meet the artists on Saturday, December 12, at 6 pm-9pm.
Ongoing Exhibition Dates: December 12, 2009 – January 2, 2010

About the Exhibition:
Katherine Mann's work depicts ever-changing fantasy worlds where blood cells, rainforests and coral reefs collide and intertwine.
Kim Manfredi's work emphasis on bulges, bumps, and contaminates, primarily illustrates boundaries - boundaries respected and boundaries crossed.
Jenny Mullins' large-scale paintings explore notions of commercial mythology and low budget mysticism.
Studio H Gallery and Workshop
408a H Street, NE
http://www.studiohdc.com

Skeeball @the Country Club

Press release:

Register Now for Skee-ball Season

What do you get when you combine the most unique bar in D.C. with the hottest new social league? The most fun way to roll away your winter blues! Beginning January 10, teams of eight will battle the best D.C. has to offer for a chance at glory, skee-ball greatness and a fun way to connect with people.


Skee-ball league games will be held at H Street Country Club every Sunday and Tuesday night for eight weeks. Once a week, each team will play two games to determine final rankings. The season will culminate with a one-day playoff and championship challenge.

Registration for season two at H Street Country Club is officially open . Players can start a team or join individually and find teammates. The deadline to sign up is January 10, 2010.

NYE @H Street Country Club

Here's the press release:

New Year's Eve Country Club Style H Street Country Club is a blast just about any time but New Year's Eve will be especially entertaining. We will provide hassle-free entertainment for those who want to welcome the new year in style. The Magical Party Pass Open bar from 9pm to 2am featuring our tasty, award-winning Classic Margaritas with Sauza tequila, draft beer, sangria, and rail drinks. Delectable hor d’ourves Party favors Champagne toast at midnight DJ music - MixMasterRod The Magical Party Pass is $65* if purchased in advance or $75* at the door. Get your ticket now and save. Walk-ins are welcome but subject to availability. The Last Supper of 09 Join us early that evening and take advantage of a special dinner package. The Last Supper of 09 Pass for $50* is perfect for two people. One appetizer Two entrees One dessert Two glasses of champagne Two mini-golf passes H Street Country Club serves food created by celebrated, James Beard-Award winner Chef Ann Cashion & offers an extensive & renowned cocktail menu. If you haven't been here yet, this is a great excuse. And a great price! To reserve your dinner pass, call us (202-399-4722) or email us. *Taxes are included. Gratuity is extra. Reservations for dinner start at 6 pm.

Little Miss Whiskey's Launches Website

Check it out.

Dangerously Delicious Pies

They aren't fully open yet at the H Street location, but they are taking holiday pre-orders.
And you can also get a deal on the newly opened house of pies via Living Social.

WTOP: DC Streetcars Arrive in Baltimore

WTOP reports that three streetcars purchased by the District arrived at the Port of Baltimore last weekend. It lends a bit of reality to what sometimes can seem like mere speculation of the years.

Examiner Reports on New Security Detail

The Examiner has a story on the new security detail funded by H Street businesses.

New Year's Eve @Rock and Roll Hotel

We can once again expect the Rock & Roll Hotel to be a New Year's hot spot. Here's what they've got planned:

New Year's Eve 2010

@ Rock & Roll Hotel

1353 H ST NE

Washington, DC 20002

202.388.7625

http://www.rockandrollhtoeldc.com 

http://www.twitter.com/rocknrollhotel

Rock and Roll Hotel is proud to present its best NYE's line-up to date.

It's hard to believe that Rock & Roll Hotel is only 3 years old, and in those 3 years has supplied some of the most enjoyable parties and entertainment around.

NYE 2010 is no different.

featuring

*The Dance Party*

(DC Locals returning from L.A. for a Holiday break. They are currently recording their debut release for Altantic Records)

http://www.myspace.com/thedanceparty

*Djs Nacey & Starks*

(of Nouveau Riche)

http://www.myspace.com/naceydc

*Beautiful Swimmers Djs*

(Andrew Field-Pickering &  Ari Goldman have long been known for their crate digging)

http://www.myspace.com/letsgoswimmers

*Garutachi Djs Ca$$idy & Austin*

http://www.myspace.com/garutachi

Dmerit (Djs Micah Villian & Outputmessage)

(put out a hit single with "Stuck On You")

http://www.myspace.com/dmeritmusic

Dj Jackie O

(KIDS/Sweatshop)

http://www.myspace.com/djjackieo

Dj Keenan

(Two Sisters/Marvin)

http://www.myspace.com/djkeenan

$30 - ADMISSION / CASH BAR

$50 (SILVER LEVEL) - ADMISSION / OPEN BAR CALL DRINKS

$80 (GOLD LEVEL) - ADMISSION / OPEN BAR TOP SHELF

TICKETS: http://www.ticketalternative.com/Events/8356.aspx

*21 AND OVER EVENT ONLY

7pm-4am

Spolied Rotten Christmas Party

Caught By Google Maps

Last week someone posted this in the comments and it's really too good not to share.  Outside 519 H Street, the the middle of the day this was the scene.

Note the family strolling by. Note how no one seems to take any notice. Note how the man in yellow is facing the corner. WOW.

WT: No Murders in Trinidad

Well, we (from the neighborhood association, and my circle of friends) were all waiting until January to spring the news that Trinidad, which has been prefaced by all sorts of terms over the past year and a half, has returned to normal. That is...NO ONE has been murdered here this year.  We did have one disputed police shooting, but that's it, and we hope to keep it that way for all of 2009 (and maybe, like, beyond). The Washington Times wrote a very decent piece about the fact. I kind of wish it wasn't called "Killings Subside in Trinidad," but whatever. I'm mostly glad that the author sought to put the violence into perspective. Apparently that doesn't really occur to a lot of journalists when writing about a sudden unusual jump in crime (find me two articles from that time in Trinidad that did it, and you win a prize). Like I said, the author actually got the facts right, and didn't misrepresent anything. That's one thing I'll say for the Times. They may be conservative as hell, but when they actually do local coverage like this, they tend to not mess it up. I once posted an error about a Times story and the author not only corrected it immediately, but he also emailed me about it. I was very impressed. Unfortunately, those kinds of journalistic ethics aren't as common as they should be today. So, Dear Reader, read on.

H Street Reimbursable Detail

I just received the following email string. It looks like H Street just got a lot safer. We owe a huge that to everyone involved.


Bobby, this is great news. I know many people played an important part to pull this off, but I want to thank you for your hard work in coordinating all the moving parts to make this a reality. I agree, this is an important first step to ensure H Street NE is a safe place for residents and guests to enjoy.

Joseph Fengler, ANC Commissioner 6A02
fengler6a02[at]yahoo.com
Please visit our website - www.anc6a.org


[VARIOUS EMAILS]
Sent: Tue, December 8, 2009 10:16:35 PM
Subject: H Street Reimbursable Detail

Charles and Joe,

The H Street Reimbursable Detail is underway! Joe Englert has pulled together the vast majority of establishments on H Street and the Detail will begin this Friday and Saturday night from 11:30pm to 3:30am. The Detail will be from 1104 H to 1433 H. A key point, raised was Maryland Avenue at the Starburst back toward G Street through Linden Court out to H Street. That is an adjustment that Skip Coburn will probably work with Lt. Durand and Englert's group to cover.

In my opinion this is a great move and should address some of the issues raised by residents and hopefully will add great police visibility to H Street and improve the safety. This committee will continue to ask for more police on regular patrols in Sector 1 and particularly in areas from Union Station to the borders of PSA 103 and the borders of PSA 501 and 504.

--
Robert Pittman
PSA 102 Co-Coordinator
PSA 102 Neighborhood Public Safety Meetings
2nd Tuesdays at Sherwood
http://MPD1DPSA102.blogspot.com

WP: Concrete Falls From H Street Overpass

Standing on the bridge that shed bits of concrete on Friday.

The Post reports on brick sized chunks that apparently fell from the Hopscotch bridge at 2nd and H.

A Neighborhood Crime Walk with Tommy Wells

WP: Shuttle to Resume Service by 12/21

The Post reports that Fenty's office is now saying they've identified funds to bring the shuttle back to H Street. Maybe we could also identify some funds to post a schedule, or two?

DCist: Return of the Shuttle?

DCist reports on efforts to revive the H Street Shuttle .

CP: Hungry Meters May Invade H Street

The City Paper reports that new parking meters may come to H Street. The multi-space meters would be installed between 12th and 15th, and F and H.

Horace & Dickie's

Bad News on the Shuttle

I just got the following:

December 4, 2009

For Immediate Release


Lack of Funds Forces Popular H Street Shuttle to Discontinue

The very popular H Street Shuttle which carries arts, food and entertainment patrons to and from trendy H Street NE and the Atlas District is forced to stop operations due to a lack of continued funding from the District. Sunday, December 6, 2009 will be the last shuttle run unless the money required to operate can be secured.
“The shuttle has made a definite impact on our business. We will immediately notice its significance when it's gone,” said Tony Tomelden, owner of one of H Street's busiest establishments, The Pug. “With the holiday season coming up, losing the shuttle will have major repercussions. Without the shuttle we are really isolated,” said Tomelden.
The H Street Shuttle provides free transportation to the newly bustling H Street Corridor by linking the Chinatown and Minnesota Avenue Metros. In anticipation of the trolley system being installed as part of the Great Streets Program, and in an effort to make the corridor easily accessible in a manner other than the often crowded X2 Bus, the shuttle has been a safe and popular mode of transportation not only for patrons to H Street's music, arts, bar and food patrons, but for the many employees of those establishments as well as many residents of the H Street NE neighborhood. Since its inception, ridership has been in the tens of thousands, and trends show that use continues to grow.
Managed by a group of business owners and managers via the H Street Business Cooperative and operated by local business U Street Parking and Transportation, the shuttle program is funded through a grant from the District of Columbia Department of Transportation (DDOT). This grant was designed to provide the funds necessary to operate the service during the Great Streets Program construction period, initially anticipated to be three years. The shuttle has only operated since January 2009. The H Street Business Cooperative was told by District officials in November that DDOT will not continue the funding, and since then, have been working with Ward 6 council offices to find new funding.
The H Street Business Cooperative and Atlas District business, such as the Rock and Roll Hotel, the H Street Country Club, the Atlas Performing Arts Center, SOVA, the Argonaut Tavern, the Martini Lounge, Granville Moore's, The Pug, Sticky Rice and many others, hopes that the discontinuation in service is only temporary, but currently, the source of new funding has not been identified.
“This is really very unfortunate,” Atlas Performing Arts Center Communications Director Jen DeMayo said. “There was a real sense of synergy between the District, the businesses and the H Street community that I hope continues. The shuttle was a real testament to that synergy.”

WHO TO CONTACT:
Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells' office (202-724-8072)& At-Large Councilmember Kwame Brown 202-724-8174. Live in Ward 5 (Harry Thomas 202-724-8028, or 7 (Yvette Alexander 202-724-8068)? Both are touched by the shuttle. You too can contact your Councilmember. Any DC resident can contact the remaining At-Large Councilmembers (David Catania 202-724-7772, Phil Mendelson 202-724-8064, and Michael Brown 202-724-8105.

Chairman Vincent Gray is also fair game for all. 202-724-8032.

Some of those are just phone numbers, and not links because I'm working off a slow internet connection.

+++++++++++++++++++

UPDATE

+++++++++++++++++++

Here are two more names:
Call and email the DDOT Director (Gabe Klein; gabe.klein@dc.gov) and Dep. Mayor of DMPED (Valerie Santos; valerie.santos@dc.gov).

++++++++++++++++++++++
UPDATE
++++++++++++++++++++++

NBC reports
DCist reports

Fundraiser @the Pug

Announcement:

well, we all complained about the xmas decorations going up so early in the
stores, and now, of course it seems like new years eve is just a few days away.
at the pug, we know how hectic this time of year can be, but we are hoping you
can spare a little time, to blow off some steam, have a few drinks, and support a
good cause. on the saturday december 12th, the pug will be holding its annual
christmas party/yellow ribbon fundraiser.
in the past we have done a $20 donation at the door and two hours of open
draft beer, usually from 8pm 'til 10 pm. this year, in order to see as many
people as possible we are going to do two time slots. 3pm 'til 5pm, and 8pm 'til
10pm. we will also be offering the insanely popular pbr bottles and natty bo
cans this year in addition to the open taps. i will be sending out plenty of
reminders, and further details as we get closer.
yellow ribbon fund is set up to help veterans and their families while on the
road to recovery, and at the pug we feel strongly enough about this charity, that
i am considering an end to the long standing ban on miller lite. so if you get a
chance, stop by have a beer and help the ones who have served for us.
thanks
tonyt
the pug

THIH: H is for History

The Hill is Home recently ran this interesting post on the ongoing H Street History Project. Give it a read. Note the discussion of H Street's eligibility for designation as an historic district.

Rebuilding Place Responds to DCmud Post

Richard's got a well written post responding to the DCmud post I mentioned yesterday. That post concerned a proposed project at 1242 H Street. DCmud is, as Richard says, a very pro-development/developer blog. People often send me links to DCmud posts. The reason I don't regularly read their posts is because:

1. The posts are basically puff pieces produced off of press releases (or similar info) from developers. This means, for instance, that you can read all about the great stuff Clark is about to build behind the Safeway. Except that Clark isn't building anything behind the Safeway right now. They are playing wait and see the same way they have been for at least four years. Not that I blame Clark, I'm sure they'd rather wait for street construction to wrap up, and the economy to improve. But I don't need to read a bunch of junk about how Clark is about to build something they aren't close to building.

2. Some of the authors seem very ignorant about the neighborhoods, and even the history of the projects, about which they write. Do a little research people.

3. The writing is uneven, and sometimes downright bad/insipid.

In short, I get annoyed. Don't get me wrong, sometimes they turn out some good stuff, and they do have sketches, and plans. I'm just saying that a little quality control might be in order. Until then I can't deal with reading them regularly.

One odd thing in Shaun's post:
1. "An empty lot could become one of the first new commercial enterprises on the 1200 block of H Street NE"

+Maybe Shaun defines "new commercial enterprise" differently than I do. I would have considered the following to fall into that category:
Philadelphia Water Ice, Souk, Stella Bleu (now closed), Palace of Wonders, the Red and the Black, the Pug, H Street Martini Lounge, Doctor Granville's, Merry-Go-Round, and Drew. Maybe Shaun meant new construction.

Overall, the developer is asking for a lot here, and the deviation from the plan is significant. I'll back the ANC on this one and say the project need to be better. Why do they need four stories, again? And the building is just plain. I know it's infill on a vacant lot, but come on. I think we can do better.

Upcoming Events @Sova

Music for the Mountains

Support the struggle against Mountain Top Removal and strip mining for coal in Appalachia, practices which are poisoning and displacing communities in West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee, and Alabama.

Music by:

Gabe Popkin and Julia Friend - fiddle tunes from the mountains of Eastern Kentucky

Here's to the Long Haul - grassroots mountain music from the movement for justice in Appalachia http://www.myspace.com/herestothelonghaul

Greasy String - Old time string band music, mostly from WV
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Greasy-String/279324240213

and stick around for a group jam and square dances at the end of the night!

Saturday, December 12, 2009 at 8:00pm-2am
SOVA espresso & Wine
1359 H Street


Clothes Not Bombs
"Bringing kids outfit ideas since earlier 2009"
Thursday, December 3 at 8:00pm-12am
SOVA, 1359 H Street

Winter Wonder Faire @Sova

DCmud: Project in the 1200 Block of H

DCmud has a post regarding a project that went before ANC6A .

Speaking of Old Maps (because I was, below)...

You can access lots of great ones online. Trinidad doesn't appear on this 1792 map, but I did find Jamaica (kind of near Columbia Heights)and Mexico (appears to be between Georgetown and Foggy Bottom).

Looking around at some old maps that do show Trinidad you can see that the old B&O Railroad once ran down West Virginia Avenue and turned onto I Street. I think the route changed around 1907-8 when Union Station opened.  Here is a map of the current route. And that Graceland Cemetery that shows up where the CVS now sits? It was an integrated (but predominantly Black) cemetery founded in 1872. Starting in 1895 (the Federal Government closed the cemetery to future occupants in 1894) the more than 6,000 people buried there were disinterred and reburied across town at Woodlawn Cemetery. The process took three years. As for the race track that shows up north of Ivy City, I haven't got a clue.

Interesting side note:
Architect Daniel Burnham designed Union Station. His name will be familiar to any of you who read Erik Larsen's terrific book The Devil in the White City. Larsen's work tells the story of the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago. Burnham worked extensively on that project along with Landscape Architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Nearly thirty years before he took on work at the Fair Olmsted was in DC designing Kendall Green at what would later become Gallaudet University. Interesting, no? And here are some old photos of Gallaudet.