Happy Halloween

Photo by Laura C.

H Street was hopping last night, and I'd say that we've had a pretty great Halloween weekend thus far. I'm going through a lot of photos I snapped over the past couple of days, and I plan to post some here. If you have photos of celebrating Halloween H Street/Jimmy Valentine's/Capital City Diner style you can add them to the Frozen Tropics Flickr pool.

Gallery Ghost

Photo courtesy of HStreetDC

Catch the musical stylings of the Gallery Ghost tonight from 6-8pm. Outside 1348 H Street. Follow it up with coffee at Sova. The Gallery Ghost is courtesy of Gallery O/H.

Shooting in 1200 Block of Bladensburg Road

MPD report:

Police Alert-SHOOTING

SHOOTING_0032 HOURS_1200 BLADENSBURG RD NE_B/M DREADS AND BLACK JEANS DO NOT TAKE ACTION CALL 911 W/EVENT #i20100598050

Sent on: 10/31 00:41

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

PBR Specials on H Street Tonight

At the Pug it's $3 PBR pounders (tall boys) all night, but places all along the strip have PBR (and other drink specials) tonight.

Not the X2 You Know

x2 012, originally uploaded by aebivins.

Judging from this photo by Frozen Tropics Flickr pool user aebivins even the X2 likes to dress up for Halloween.

GGW: Ward 6 ANC Endorsements

I'm not making any endorsements in the Ward 6 ANC races, but Greater, Greater Washington has a few suggestions for you.

Weekend East City Event Round Up: Halloween Edition

This is an entry written by Phil Hutinet and and cross-posted on the blog East City Art.


Saturday October 30

Albus Cavus presents Monster Mash at 680 Rhode Island Avenue NE, Washington DC. Activities begin at 9am and include a magic show, face painting, mask making, pumpkin decorating and prizes. Young and old are encouraged to dress up in their most frightening outfits!

Read more »

Early Morning Shooting on Bennett Place

SHOOTING///0157HOURS///1900 BENNETT PLACE, NE/// NO LOOKOUT DO NOT TAKE ACTION CALL 911 W/EVENT #I20100591597 Sent by DC Police Alert to e-mail, pagers, cell phones....powered by Cooper Notification RSAN

I have no other info at this time.

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UPDATE

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From the MPD-5D listserv:

Around 3am this morning an adult male subject was shot in the leg. He has been very vague in his story of what occurred, detectives have the case and our putting together the sequence of events. If anyone has any additional information please email me directly!


Commander Lamar D. Greene

Sherwood Rec Beautification Day

When: Saturday Oct 30th 9am-1pm.
Where: 10th and G Street.

You are invited to join other volunteers in the annual fall planting. Tulip bulbs will go in the ground, saplings will get trimmed, and the area will get a general sprucing up.

They'll have some tools and gloves on hand, but your best bet is to bring your own. Coffee and light refreshments provided.

Notes From the TNA Trinidad ANC Candidate Forum

I wasn't able to make last night's ANC candidate forum, but I've got notes to share anyway. These are notes put together by Trinidad resident Geoff Hatchard, who was kind enough to share them. Geoff blogs at Greater, Greater Washington, and the District Curmudgeon.

Read more »

GGW: ANC 5B Endorsements

Greater, Greater Washington makes a few endorsements in 5B, and what do you know, they endorse all of the candidates that I endorse. More good reason to vote for these people. Remember:

ANC 5B06: Thalia Wiggins
ANC 5B07: Laura Casperson
ANC 5B08: Tina Laskaris
ANC 5B10: Camille Tucker

I think we have some notes coming from an attendee at tonight's Trinidad ANC forum coming up soon.

Boogie Babes at Sova 11/5

Bridgette with Dawn on Bongos
November 5 at 10:30am
Sova 1359 H Street

$5 per child. Accompanying siblings 6 months and under free!

Shooting on Trinidad Avenue

Shooting 1700 block of Trinidad Ave. 2 shooters may be teens.

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UPDATE
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5D SHOOTING _ 1354 HRS @ 1725 TRINIDAD AVE NE LOF: S1 B/M 5'4" DK CPLX 16-18 DREADS BLK JEANS WHT SHIRT W/WRITING BLK SHOES S2 B/M 5'4" 17-20 DREADS W/WHT HAT BEIGE JKT ORANGE WRITING DO NOT TAKE ACTION CALL 911 W/EVENT #I20100590405 Sent on: 10/27 14:14 Sent by DC Police Alert to e-mail, pagers, cell phones....powered by Cooper Notification RSAN

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UPDATE

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Victim is an adult male with non-life threatening injuries. From the Post:

In the first incident, officers responded to the 1700 block of Trinidad Avenue NE and found an adult male at about 2 p.m,. police and fire department officials said. The man's wound is not believed to be life-threatening, said Pete Piringer, a fire and emergency services department spokesman.

Reminder: Ward 6 Gray Town Hall Mtg Tonight

When: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 6:30 pm
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street

Ask questions and share your ideas will the future Mayor of the District.

H is For Halloween

skeleton straddle, originally uploaded by philliefan99.

Lot's of great stuff going on all Halloween weekend on and around H Street. This is just a very preliminary listing. I'll update it as I get more stuff.
Read more »

Pirates Seize the Atlas! Special Halloween Edition

The Washington Savoyards presents a fun, frolicking and family-friendly approach to the classic melodramatic Gilbert and Sullivan operetta.

Halloween weekend, Sat the 30th and Sunday the 31st come dressed like a pirate! The prize is a walk-on role in that day's performance
Read more »

Tonight: Food & Beer Pairing at LMW

Liberty Tree and Little Miss Whiskey's have teamed up to offer you a terrific series of four beer and food pairings. Door opens at Little Miss Whiskey's (1104 H Street) at 5:30, and food service begins at 6pm. More info after the jump.

Read more »

Out of Time

dressed to the nines, originally uploaded by turn'table.

A reader shared this image of a participant in last year's Tweed Ride. We might see the event return to the Corridor this year.

Hollowfest at Sherwood Rec

October 29th
5-7:30pm

Dress Your Best Hollowfest for ages five through seventeen. Youth and teens will participate in Halloween themed activities, Halloween costume contest, and games. Light refreshments will be served.

Sherwood Recreation Center
10th & G Street

For more information, contact the Sherwood staff at 698-3075.

Spooky Fun at the Atlas

Many ways to have spooky fun Halloween weekend at the Atlas

Friday night Oct 29th we'll be dancin' in the streets with Joy of Motion for the Second Annual Thriller on H!

Learn the famous moves at 7 with Joy of Motion or meet us in the Auto Zone parking lot at 9 for the fun!

Last year's Thriller was a popular attraction, this year the proprietors of the local Michael Jackson shrine house have promised to attend.

Read more »

Candidate Statement: Laura Casperson ANC 5B07

I've posted several statements from ANC Candidates, and here's one more. As always, the mere posting of the statements does not constitute an endorsement, but is instead merely offered as a public service. That said, I am endorsing this particular candidate (I'm only make endorsements in 5B races this year due to some time commitment issues on my end).


PLATFORM
-Coordinate with the police to improve Community Policing and implement measures to improve public safety.
-Hold regular SMD meetings so that we can all meet, share ideas and work together to improve our neighborhood.

Read more »

Candidate Statement: Drew Ronneberg ANC 6A02

I've posted several statements from ANC Candidates, and here's one more. As always, the mere posting of the statements does not constitute an endorsement, but is instead merely offered as a public service.


Photo provided by Drew Ronneberg

To the residents of ANC 6A02:

I was elected as ANC 6A02 Commissioner in February after working for 7 years as a citizen volunteer and 4 years as Chairman of the Economic Development and Zoning Committee.

Read more »

Diner's Halloween Decorations Stolen (Again)

The Halloween decorations outside the Capital City Diner are apparently just way too much of a draw for thieves passing by. Recently they were stolen, and then returned, after owner Matt Ashburn put up flyers with the thief's picture at a bus stop and liquor store. Now the decorations have disappeared again, this time the culprit was wearing a Vincent Gray shirt.

Read more »

Tonight: Ward 6 School Board Candidate Forum

On November 2nd, Ward 6 will elect a new representative to the school board. Hear from the two candidates -- Melissa Rohan & Monica Warren-Jones -- about their plans and vision for public schools in Ward 6. Find out where the candidates stand on improving our middle schools, driving academic performance, and continuing growth beyond our elementary school gains.

When: Monday, October 25, 2010, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Where: Maury Elementary School, 1250 Constitution Ave, NE. Additional details: Parking available on-site (lot is accessed from 12th Place NE); child care will be provided on site.

Event co-sponsors: Hill Rag, The Hill Is Home, H Street Great Street, Frozen Tropics, Capitol Hill Public School Parents Organization, Eastern Market Metro Community Association, North Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association, Capitol Hill North Neighborhood Association, Gangplank Slipholders Association, Ward 6 Democrats, Friends of Choice in Urban Schools (FOCUS).

Community Meeting Re: Tru' Orleans

ANNOUNCEMENT:

SPECIAL COMMUNITY MEETING
400 H STREET (TRU ORLEANS)
Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at 6:30pm

Toyland 421 H Street NE 2nd Floor

The Owners of Tru Orleans will be present to provide an update on this project and to address community concerns.

Coffee AND Tea will be provided by Sidamo
Complimentary Adult Beverages following the meeting on the 1st Floor at Toyland
For further information contact Commissioner Tony Richardson
Tonyrichardson08[at]gmail.com 202-997-6662

Whoops! More Buffoonery at Capitol Hill Oasis

Reader Jaime H. sends in this shot of a capsized construction vehicle, and explains that "The diggers-in-training dug themselves onto a little island-o-dirt that, turns out, couldn't support the digger." Really, Capitol Hill Oasis? Really? I can't even believably feign shock at this point.

And what is that sidewalk looking thing they've dug under? Are those pervious pavers?

Literacy for Life

A day to celebrate reading!

free books for kids ages 5 –12

story time, enhanced with American Sign Language

poster-making contest

fun games and snacks

Date: Saturday October 23rd
Time: 11 am – 3 pm
Location: Trinidad Recreation Center, Childress St NE


We need volunteers: If you would like to help with this event, please contact the Trinidad Neighborhood Association at trinidadneighborhood[at]gmail.com or 202-596-TNA1

GGW: DDOT Releases Streetcar Plan

Greater Greater Washington dicusses DDOT's recently released streetcar plan.
1. It does call for streetcars to cruise down H Street in 2012.
2. It calls for the streetcar to cost $1.
3. There's a map of the initial stops.
4. H Street will get 4-5 streetcars, which should provide service every ten minutes.
5. Streetcars will be unique in that they will run on the proof of payment plan used on public transit in many other cities. So they'll need to really do the random checks. GGW says MPD will do the random checks.
6. The streetcar goes to Union Station.
7. The streetcar has an overhead wire, but also has a "feeder" wire underground.
8. According to GGW the power substation is going in on the tiny lot next to Auto Zone.

Munich Meets H Street

munich meets H street, originally uploaded by turn'table.

Share your photos through the Frozen Tropics Flickr pool. I'd especially like to see fall or Halloween oriented photos right now.

Dangerously Delicious Date Night Special

We're a tad slanted towards pie news this week, but that's to be expected with the launch of Dangerously Delicious Pies' DC Pie Truck. I have one friend in particular who always grouses that he's too broke to pay for a slice. So, here's a deal even he can't complain about. It's the date night special (available Monday-Wednesday 5pm-close) where you can get two slices of sweet pie, two slices of savory, and two drinks, for $20. That's a $27 value even before you get to the drinks.

Oh, and did you know that you can always add things to your pie? A side salad of mixed greens for $2, a scoop of ice cream for $1, or whipped cream for free. I recall that someone once missed a glass of milk while eating his pie. Don't be that guy. Order a shot of milk for 50 cents.

DDP = dcpietruck

According to We Love DC it could be up and running as soon as tomorrow, so if you can't make it to the H Street location to quell those pie hankerings, perhaps you can catch them on the go. Follow the DC Pie Truck (run by Dangerously Delicious Pies) on Twitter.

Movie Night at Toyland

Get your scary movie on tonight starting at 8pm. Catch The Mist, Pet Cemetary, Poltergeist, and Scream. Toyland is located at 421 H Street.

Tea Party Protest at the Atlas

Press release (Pirates of Penzance is coming soon too, so I'm told there may also be some pirates protesting):



Washington, D.C. (October 15, 2010) The Coalition of MyNewtMen and The Tea Party Regress Party will be protesting the opening of the Gross National Product's production of "Don't Tea on Me" at The Atlas Performing Arts Center on October 21st. The group will be protesting arts funding, the well endowed Endowment for the Arts, the DC Commission for the Arts and Humanities, Social Security, Obamacare, the Minimum Wage, the Department of Education, Congress, Darwinism, the Federal government and artists in general. The protest will begin at 6:30 P.M. under the marquee at the Atlas Performing Arts Center.


The founder, Ralph Reed DeMinted anticipates between 2 and 20,000 members of the Movement to protest indecency, irreverency and musicality. "We must privatize the arts!” says Mr. DeMinted “Give them to Fox News! They’ll know exactly what to do with them.” Prior to founding MyNewtMen, Mr. DeMinted worked with Christine O'Donnell's on abolishing the separation of church and state and the Tobacco companies "Right to Light" campaign.


The coalition of MyNewtMen will be protesting in Tea Party attire at the Atlas on Thursday 21st 6:30 PM and the media is encouraged to attend the circus event. Atlas Performing Arts Center - 1333 H Street


Contact: Twinkie Palin-ette 202 783 7212

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UPDATE

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I thought that labeling this as a press release would make it clear, that I didn't write it. Apparently that wasn't sufficient. So, just in case anyone is still unclear on this: the text above is a press release written by Gross National Product (the group performing at the Atlas). I did not write the fake press release.

Electric H

H Street, originally uploaded by aebivins. From the Frozentropics Flickr pool.

I always thought I felt a charge in the air around here.

The Future of R. L. Christian

This item is on the agenda for tomorrow's ANC 6A Economic Development and Zoning Commission meeting.

Wednesday October 20, 2010, 7-9:00 PM
Sherwood Recreation Center (640 10th St, NE)
2nd Floor Community Room

Pietergeists Haunt Dangerously Delicious

Dangerously Delicious Pies (1339 H Street) is rolling out a very special line of spooky pies for Halloween. They'll make the perfect surprise for for the little (or big, but immature) goblins in your life. To start they've got the Pumpkin Patch, which is an orange creme pie with a decorative top that features tiny candy pumpkins. Also scaring up interest will be a pie featuring a graveyard scene with crushed Oreos for the dirt, and booberry...excuse me, blueberry creme filling. They may introduce additional frightening offerings, so be sure to ask when you stop by.

So You Think You're Pretty Smart?

Try your luck at trivia tonight. The Argonaut (1433 H Street) hosts Booze Clues, the original trivia night on H Street, starting at 8pm. Down the street at the Rock and Roll Hotel (1353 H Street) the Trivia Kings run the competition that starts at 7:30.

Dangerously Delicious Launches Pie Truck

Photo from Dangerously Delicious Pies' Facebook page

I don't know about you, but I know I feel better knowing that the Sticky Rice police aren't out patrolling the streets by their lonesome. Thanks to HstreetDC for the heads up.

Sometimes They Come Back...

Ashburn, shown here with Assistant Chief Groomes

Halloween decorations I mean. The crew at Capital City Diner tweets that they put out Halloween decorations on Saturday, only to find them mysteriously missing on Sunday. Owner Matt Ashburn reviewed the security tapes and posted the thief's image at a nearby bus stop and liquor store yesterday, and today the missing items had reappeared. Pretty impressive.

East City Art: Local Visual Art Scene

East City Art profiles the visual art scene on H Street and in Trinidad.

HSGS: CHAMPS Buy Local

H Street Great Street has info about how you can support local businesses, and save money at the same time. The benefits of joining the Capitol Hill Chamber of Commerce in its Buy Local campaign are pretty damn good when you look at these discounts (10-20% off at some local bars and restaurants, plus deals on local services).

New at Dangerously Delicious, The Lunch Special

delicious S&M, originally uploaded by philliefan99.

Dangerously Delicious Pies offers up a tasty sounding lunch special. Choose one savory slice, and add a mixed green side salad and a drink for $8. The special is only available Monday-Friday from 11-3pm. But you can always add a side salad to your pie or quiche for $2. 1339 H Street.

A Message From Palace of Wonders

Dear Palace of Wonders friends,

It is with our disappointment the opening of the Red Palace has been postponed through November 5th. This unfortunate delay has put us in difficult predicament, as business has been slow with out any shows. We are asking our friends to support the Palace of Wonders by spreading the word that we will be hosting already scheduled side shows and burlesque on the old stage temporarily.

Read more »

GGW: Who Should Control the Streetcar?

Seattle Streetcar at Westlake and Olive, originally uploaded by WintrHawk.

Greater Greater Washington asks if WMATA or DDOT should be in charge of the streetcars.

Kathy Henderson At It Again

Kathy Henderson, shown here stealing campaign signs

Perhaps you thought Kathy Henderson couldn't sink any lower than her memorable campaign sign stealing antics (which were caught on video tape) during which she accused Capital City Diner owner Matt Ashburn of conspiring with Ward 5 Councilmember Harry Thomas to frame her. Well, you were wrong. Don Quixote's evil sister Kathy Henderson is back. This time she's after a neighborhood association. She wrote the following email after a private individual associated with the association responded to her rant about trash collection. Is anything below actually true? Only the fact that the respondent ran (as a write in, against a candidate appearing on the ballot) for the 5B10 seat. Other than that, Henderson has made up all the rest of her "facts." One fact in the nine sentences of the first paragraph. Now that's impressive. Plus a new conspiracy involving the Councilmember! Exciting!

Read more »

Red Palace Relaunch Delayed

Seriously, VERY close

You may have noticed that the Red Palace event on my Got (Halloween) Plans? post now says it's canceled back on. Here's the deal, they just a have to do a couple of more things like put fire resistant paint on a beam, or two. But, this being DC, it can take a while to get inspectors to come through. So...the relaunch is slightly delayed. Basically, they've canceled the October, and early November, shows that were scheduled. That sucks, but both Palace of Wonders and Red and the Black are open downstairs. Hell, as of last update, a few events are back on, and will be held on the downstairs Palace of Wonders Stage. Stop by and grouse with the bartenders over the headaches of opening/running a business in the District. 1210 and 1212 H Street.

Dos Tacos!

Available every Saturday and Sunday at the Friends in the Marketplace Funky Flea Market at the Florida Avenue Market. $2 per taco. Available in beef, pork, chicken, and (beef) tongue.  6th and Neal.

TBD: XII Faces Liquor License Opposition

TBD reports on ANC  6A's looming protest of the ABC license renewal of XII, a nightclub/tavern located at the corner of 12th and H Street. XII is the subject of an upcoming ABRA fact finding hearing following the physical assault of a woman in the club's bathroom. XII has also had numerous noise complaints, and these are largely the basis of the protest. The ANC's stated goal is not for XII to lose its license, but for XII and ANC 6A to enter in a new voluntary agreement with stricter regulations and penalties regarding noise.

Ethiopic Gets Outdoor Seating & a Great Review

The Washington Post covers Ethiopic in its fall dining guide, and Food Critic Tom Sietsema seems quite enamored of the place. He praises the well informed servers who can explain not only the ingredients in the dishes they serve, but also any particular cultural significance associated with the fare. I must agree with Sietsema that the vegetarian sampler is a must order. I love the lentil salad. If you haven't tried Ethiopic yet, you are really missing out. 401 H Street. Enjoy the outdoor seating while the weather lasts.

Did I mention that Ethiopic is the only Ethiopian restaurant featured in the Fall Dining Guide?

Lots Happening at the ANC 6A Meeting

Fortunately for those of us that had to miss tonight's meeting HstreetDC was on-hand to Tweet the exciting developments. Here are the highlights of the highlights:

HstreetDC: Scott from @ArgonautDC presenting plans to expand patio, cover part of it. Asking for ANC support. Partnering w/@Fragers on gardens. about 5 hours ago via Twitter for BlackBerry®

Read more »

Tweed Ride to Hit H Street Again?

Ah the crisp chill of fall, the tangy bite of fall apple, and the almost forgotten site of a tweed clad bicycle ride of yesteryear...er, last year. The tweed riders are back, but I'm unable of find any route information online. Last years ride made for some very good photo ops, so here's hoping they wind up the ride over here and stop by our fine establishments for a refreshing beverage. The ride is scheduled for November 14th.

Got (Halloween) Plans?

Remember when I mentioned before about the serious shortage of cabs on Halloween? Yeah, it sucks! But neighborhood residents can avoid the issue by staying local on Halloween. Check out the events below and you won't even be tempted to hit that party in Columbia Heights or Petworth.

Jimmy Valentine's


TICKETING INFO and PURCHASE
$15 in advance (sells out)
$80 get you admission and free drinks at Jimmy's and Little Miss Whiskey's for the night.

Read more »

Upcoming Political Forums

Oct. 19: Special Forum with Kwame Brown, the next Chair of the Council

In January, Councilmember Kwame Brown will take over the helm of the Council of the District of Columbia. Join our next Chairman, along with several of his At-Large Council colleagues and Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells, for a conversation about the future of the Council. How will the Council keep education reform a priority? What are Mr. Brown's plans for working with Mayor-to-be Gray? What does he see as Council's role in the continued growth of H Street NE, the Capitol Riverfront and Southwest Waterfront?

When: Tuesday, October 19, 2010, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Where: Southeast Branch Public Library, 403 7th Street, SE
Additional details: Meeting room is downstairs; Eastern Market Metro Station is across the street.


Oct. 25: Ward 6 School Board Candidates Forum

On November 2nd, Ward 6 will elect a new representative to the school board. Hear from the two candidates -- Melissa Rohan and Monica Warren-Jones -- about their plans and vision for public schools in Ward 6. Find out where the candidates stand on improving our middle schools, driving academic performance, and continuing growth beyond our elementary school gains. Co-hosted with the Capitol Hill Public Schools Parents Organization.

When: Monday, October 25, 2010, 6:00 - 7:30 pm
Where: Maury Elementary School, 1250 Constitution Ave, NE
Additional details: Parking available on-site (lot is accessed from 12th Place NE); we are also in the process of arranging child care on-site.

Oct. 27: Trinidad ANC Candidates Forum

The Trinidad Neighborhood Association would like to provide a forum for residents to get to know the candidates for the Advisory Neighborhood Commission. As you know, these elected positions are the front line for many neighborhood concerns and issues that need to be addressed by various District agencies. Since these positions don’t garner much media attention, there is little opportunity for voters to learn about the people who want to represent their interests. This is where TNA would like to help. Don't miss this chance to hear from the candidates.

When: Wednesday, October 27th, 7-8:30 pm
Where: Joe Cole Community Center 1299 Neal Street, NE

Weekend Arts Event Round Up

Courtesy of Phil Hutinet:

Weekend East City Event Round Up

Thursday October 14

Tim Conlon “Con Rail” Photo Courtesy Studio H

Studio H and CITY Gallery present the season’s first Art House Open House at 748 7^th Street SE.  The works of the following artists will be represented:

Geoff Ault- photography (CITY Gallery)
Tim Conlon- graffiti artist (Studio H)
Ellen Cornett- pastels (CITY Gallery)
Sherill Gross- cut outs (CITY Gallery)
Liz Lescault- ceramic scuplture (CITY Gallery)
Katherine Mann- mixed media painting (Hamiltonian Gallery)
Steven Pearson- mixed media painting (Studio H)
Pam Rogers- mixed media painting (CITY Gallery)

Refreshment and hors-d’oeuvres will be provided by Marvelous Market Capitol Hill.

Friday October 15

"Barking Pumpkins" created from glass, wire, styrofoam by Erica Fallin.  Photo Courtesy of Authentic Contemporary Art

Be part of history when the first art gallery opens in Ward 7.  Don’t miss the Tubman-Mahan Art Gallery’s inaugural opening “ReCREATE” at 3938 Benning Road NE from 6pm to 8pm.  The juried group show required artists to work with recycled material.

The following artists will be represented: Chuck Baxter, Sandra Davis, Jim Duckworth, Chava Evans, Erica Fallin, Magaly Gaza, Christopher Golden, Gints Grinbergs, Rania Hassan, Sean Hennessey, Roxanne Jarrett, Guru Sangat Khalsa, Gloria Kirk, Marla Mclean, Rose Mosner, Jordan Quintero,Wendy Rabinowitz, Kathy Turner, Ja'Ski Watkins and Sherry Ways

Saturday October 16

The Fridge presents Graham Boyle’s first solo exhibit “Thrive, Despite!” from 7pm to 10pm.  The gallery is located behind Belga Café in the alley between 8^th and 9^th streets SE.

Phil Hutinet is the Editor-in-Chief of East City Art.  You can get more information about East City Art on Facebook  or follow them on Twitter

Douche Bag City Opening at Conner

From the gallery:

FEDERICO SOLMI. Gallery hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10-5pm.

FEDERICO SOLMI: Douche Bag City
October 30 – December 18, 2010

to preview: CLICK HERE

My works are filled with corrupt politicians, murderers, swindlers, tyrants, porn stars, religious preachers... I want to present viewers with an ironic but perverse vision of our times and our near future.
- Federico Solmi

Conner Contemporary Art proudly presents Douche Bag City, a major exhibition of video-animation, painting, and sculpture by Federico Solmi.

Solmi shocked Europe last year by exhibiting The Evil Empire (2008), the video portrait of a future Pope whose violent sex addiction leads to widespread ruin. Because of the work’s controversial content, the video was censored in France and Spain. Solmi, who lives in New York, was put on trial in his native Italy for obscenity, blasphemy and offense to religion. Later that year, the Guggenheim Foundation honored Solmi by awarding him with the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Fellowship, in the category of video and audio, and commissioned work from him. This year, curators Sarah Lewis and Daniel Belasco selected Solmi’s latest video, Douche Bag City (2010) for exhibition in the SITE Santa Fe Eighth International Exhibition.

In Douche Bag City, Solmi turns his satirical lens toward Wall Street. Here, the artist applies his signature style, combining painting and hand-drawn animation with digital models, through the implementation of computer gaming engines. Solmi’s satire of Wall Street greed and corruption operates as a critique of the violence inherent in social and economic power structures. The artist has designed a special installation of custom-framed LCD screens for the presentation of Douche Bag City in the gallery. In addition to Solmi’s most recent videos, we will present his seminal works Rocco Never Dies (2005), The Giant (2005), and King Kong and the End of the World (2006).

We are also delighted to show Solmi’s newest works, which have never before been exhibited: a large-scale sculpture inspired by The Evil Empire and paintings for the video animation Chinese Democracy and the Last Day on Earth (a work in progress). 

There will be an opening reception Saturday, October 30th from 6 -8pm. Artist in attendance. 

Additional information may be found at: http://www.connercontemporary.com. For further information or images, please contact the gallery @ 202-588-8750 or info@connercontemporary.com.

DC Beer: Sipping at Liberty Tree

DC Beer checks out the brews at Liberty Tree.

Every Bar in DC: the Pug

The Pug, originally uploaded by AWard Tour.

Every Bar in DC steps into the ring with the Pug.

Curbside Cupcake Takes the Curby

Local food truck Curbside Cupcake won the coveted Curby Award at the first annual Curbside Cookoff. Twenty area food trucks participated, and Curbside emerged victorious. Contestants were judged on popularity. Congratulations guys! Keep up the good work. Here's a photo of one of the owners accepting the award.

The Hate Graffiti That Wasn't?

Recently more information has come out about the graffiti that was painted on the door shared by Metro Mutts and BritishInk. It now appears that the culprit might have been a young man who was turned down for a job at the local tattoo parlor.  Apparently the suspect showed up unannounced with portfolio in hand, and when his work received an unimpressive appraisal, he left in a rotten mood. Paul Roe, of BritishInk, thinks this guy is probably behind the nasty graffiti. Frankly, if the graffiti is any measure of his artistic ability, it's pretty clear why Roe wasn't buying. DCentric has more.

Have You Eaten at Little Miss Whiskey's Recently?

Because Kywon, who you may recognize from the Capital City Diner, regularly grills up some tasty fare. Here are the menu offerings for this Thursday and Friday:

Choice One :
Flat-Ironed Steak served on a bed of Black Beans and Rice.
Alongside Fresh Cut Seasoned Green Beans.
Price : $9.00

Choice Two :
Jerk Chicken With Black beans and Rice.
Price : $7.00

Little Miss Whiskey's is located at 1104 H Street.

TBD: MPD Investigates Hate Graffiti at Metro Mutts

TBD has more details on the police visit to Metro Mutts, and a photo of the graffiti (just in case crudely drawn penises are your thing).

Trick, or Treat?

It's time once again for the annual Halloween primer, when we help out the newbies with what to expect October 31st (and also probably the 30th this year).

Q: I want to put out a pumpkin/jack-o-lantern, but won't someone smash it?
A: Actually, probably not. Though this was rampant where I grew up, it doesn't happen much around here.

Q: I don't really know if any kids will come around. Should I buy candy?
A: Yes. Halloween traffic can be hard to gauge, but it mostly seems to depend on whether you, and many of your neighbors, actually turn on porch lights that night.

Q: I've heard that old kids trick or treat here, and that many kids don't wear costumes. Is this true, and should I still give them candy?
A: Older kids do indeed trick or treat here (as in mid-teens, and yeah, they really do just want candy), and I've often had parents also want candy when they are out with the kids. Lots of kids don't bother with the costume. Despite what some say, it's not a money thing. There are lots of cheap/free ways to dress up for Halloween. So I find this annoying. But, I give the non-costumed candy anyway.

Q: Do kids egg houses on Halloween? Fireworks?
A: I've heard of Halloween eggings here, but they aren't common. Ditto for fireworks.




Other tips:

1. Try stocking something without peanuts, or nuts in it in case you find a kid with an allergy.

2. If you want trick-or-treaters you should turn your porch light on early.

3. A pumpkin, or jack-o-lantern, easily visible from the street (I like to put a decoration out in the yard that you can see from down the street) will decrease your chances of getting skipped.

4. If you offer kids the bowl and tell them to take two pieces it will not happen. That kid's going to grab a handful. If that's an issue for you then hand them the candy, or drop it into the kid's bag.

5. Don't leave out a bowl of candy. It will be empty after the first two kids.

6. this probably goes without saying, but no unprotected candles on the stairs due to long costumes, little kids, and visibility obscured by masks.

7. Keep pets inside. It's not a good night for them to be out.

8. Cabs are often in short supply on Halloween, and drinkers (and drunk drivers) are legion. Be safe.

Plant Swap at Ludlow Taylor

Here's a little info about an upcoming event where you can meet follow plant enthusiasts, and trade in your stuff:


Divide your bulbs, and plant new ones for spring blooms

Fall is a great time to divide your perennials, bulbs, and other spreading plants! Join us for the Ludlow Taylor Elementary School Plant Swap to exchange your plants with other gardeners. Bring your divided plants in containers (like old nursery pots, milk jugs, etc.) to the school to donate to the pool. For however many items you bring you will get a chance to pick from the pool in a round robin-style lottery.

This free event will be on Saturday, October 16th at 10am in front of the 7th Street entrance of Ludlow Taylor Elementary School. The address is 659 G Street.

Candidate Statement: Brian Cox ANC 6C05

I've posted several statements from ANC Candidates, and here's one more. As always, the mere posting of the statements does not constitute an endorsement, but is instead merely offered as a public service.

Candidate Statement

Brian Cox for ANC (SMD 6C05)

I am running for Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner because I believe in the power of an organized community. I believe that by working together, we can make our neighborhood the best place to live or do business in Washington.

ANC 6C has almost $90,000 in taxpayer funding available to invest in the community. Yet the Commissioners have been extremely slow to reinvest those funds.

My pledge:

Action
The ANC can make a meaningful difference in our lives by making smart and strategic investments in our neighborhood. I have a plan to identify the best investments.
• Better promote the availability of grants
• Create competition among grant applicants to identify smart investments
• Invest in the best programs
• Evaluate the success of each program throughout the year
• Seek to grow and replicate highly successful and tested programs

Transparency
As an ANC Commissioner, I pledge to be a good steward of taxpayer funding. Today, most of the ANC’s funds are unspent and sitting idly, earning only 80 cents in interest each month. We must have higher standards. If our personal investments generated such a low rate of return, we would fire our bankers. For the ANC to be accountable to our community, it must:
• Publish grant reports on the ANC’s website along with program evaluations
• Publish ANC 6C’s checking account online
• Publish Treasurer’s Reports online so residents can access financial information without digging through meeting minutes

Responsiveness
As your Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner I will be on call for you day and night. Whether you need help getting solutions from the District of Columbia, or have great ideas for our neighborhood, I will be your “Go-to Guy” for problems large or small. It’s time to take full advantage of modern communication technologies, so that each resident can keep up in a way that works for them.
• Easy to reach - Contact me by e-mail (brian@briancox.us), Facebook, mobile (202-905-2697), Twitter (briancoxforanc) or on the web (www.briancox.us)
• Swift follow-up – Response within 24 hours. I will provide regular updates and follow-up until solution is reached.
• Advice on navigating the D.C. Government – If you need something from the D.C. Government but don’t know where to start, I will be your first call. I will help you navigate the D.C. beaurocracy and get the answers you need!

With so much changing around us, the ANC provides a unique opportunity for residents to be heard in the process. I have lived on the Hill for almost five years. Like my neighbors, I have been inspired by the promise of a growing community. As your Commissioner, I will be your connection to change and your voice in the process. I ask for your support and your vote on November 2nd.

The Result:
A smarter, safer, more vibrant community.

More ANC Numbers to Make Your Head Hurt

An individual report is out for ANC 6A, but not for 6C or 5B. But we can look at the larger reports. The salaries and wages aren't the only numbers to check out. I suggest focusing on grants, and "services purchased."  ANC 6A and ANC 6C look pretty good, but ANC 5B looks a tad screwy. ANC 6A spent $10,219 on services purchased. Those services included "disbursements for a traffic impact study, advertising, and administrative and interpreter services." Ok, cool. ANC 6C spent $2,940.59 on services purchased. Those funds paid for administrative services, advertising, and webhosting. Alright, sure. But then ANC 5B spent $18,912.68 on services purchased, and the gloss explains this only as "administrative services." When I was on ANC 5B (I served one term, and did not seek re-election) I was the Secretary, and I took, typed, and distributed (electronically) all the meeting minutes. We employed someone for "administrative services" at the time (I'm guessing it might still be the same person), so I'm pretty sure that taking, typing, and distributing, minutes isn't part of those administrative services. I'm wondering exactly what that does include, since we paid close to $20,000 for it.

Now let's look at grants:
ANC 6A $5,694.96
ANC 6C $7,500.00
ANC 5B $0.00

Ok, now total expenditures:
ANC 6A $19,278.85
ANC 6C $10,943.65
ANC 5B $27,390.60

Now you're probably like, WTF ANC 5B? Right? Well, I'd like to point out that ANC 5B is bigger than these other two ANCs in terms of population*, so they get more funds. But, that still doesn't explain to me why more than 2/3 of the funds being spent in 5B went to administrative services.** In my time on ANC 5B I was never really able to pin down exactly what our administrative person did (granted, she was ill part of the time, so that might explain part of it). Perhaps the role is more active now, but I kind of doubt it.

Check out the breakdown of expenditures for all three of these ANCs by downloading the info from the DC Auditor. Trust me, it isn't boring. It will, however, leave you with nagging questions. I mean, what's this $1,080.01 in bank fees about? Sheesh!

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*Each SMD theoretically represents 2,000 residents. ANC 6A has 8 Commissioners, ANC 6C has 9, and ANC 5B has 12.

**ANC 5A and ANC 5C have 12 Commissioners each (just like 5B). They spent, respectively, $536.28 and $287.00 on services purchased. Neither one of these ANCs paid any salaries or wages in 2009. Total funds spent on services purchased in Ward 5: $19,735.92. Let's do a little math. $18,912.68/$19,735.92=.95828722451. So, 96% of the money spent on "services purchased" in Ward 5 went to administrative services for ANC 5B.

Any thoughts?

Filling in the Spaces in the 1100 Block of H Street

You know all that vacant space (1113-1117) on the south side of the 1100 block of H?  Well, the District's got big plans for it. For reference sake I'll tell you that Family Dollar is located at 1121 H Street, and Me and My Supermarket is at 1111 H Street, so the parcel in question is currently behind a big white fence.

From the website of the District of Columbia Office of the Deputy Mayor for Economic Development:

The District seeks the rehabilitation of properties from 1113 to 1117 H Street, NE. The project is an example of one of the targeted corridors of the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development Great Streets Initiative. The District and its development partners are constructing rental housing units on top of ground floor retail.

The partner for this project is H Street Partners, LLC (AKA Wall Development). Total budget estimated at $3.5 million.

Spending ANC Funds

Michael Niebauer of the Washington Business Journal put out what was undoubtedly the most interesting tweet that I saw today. He's talking about the spending habits of a few ANCs in Ward 6. All ANCs get funds from the District government, but they spend those funds in different ways. Some ANCs employ people to do mailings, make copies, take minutes, or complete various other tasks (I have to say that in some cases, but not all, it's hard to see what exactly those employees do). Many ANCs give grants through a formal process, but others do not.  Do you know about your ANC?

Here's Neibauer's tweet:

mjneibauer Michael Neibauer

Audits on 3 Ward 6 ANCs released. Interesting that ridiculously busy 6A spent zero on salary over 2+ years. 6B [and] D spent $69,000 combined.

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Ward 6 Townhall Relocates to the Atlas

Oct. 27, 6:30 pm
Atlas Performing Arts Center
1333 H Street

Sova Introduces Game Night

Straight from Frank:

The first Game Night at SOVA starts tonight at 7pm (7pm - 10pm every Monday night). We'll have at least 4 board games upstairs, PS3 video games (Madden & FIFA) on the 42" TV downstairs, and Pictionary or Sharades on our new outdoor stage.

We'll also have extended happy hour from 7:30 to 8pm, every Monday night. That means half price beer and wine.

Citywide Neighborhood Watch Training

You are invited to join the Metropolitan Police Department and the National Sheriff’s Association in a partnership:

Location: Maurice T. Turner Jr., Metropolitan Police Academy

4665 Blue Plains Drive, SW

Washington, DC 20032

Time: 11 AM - 2 PM

FREE I.D. Pens with Invisible Ink for Labeling Property

FREE PARKING

To RSVP or for more information, please contact Yvonne Smith at 202.727.8809 or through

email at yvonne.smith@dc.gov.

Citywide National Neighborhood Watch

Training National Crime Prevention Month

10.23.2010

CALLING ALL NEIGHBORHOOD GROUPS

Target & First Book Visit Wheatley

Target and First Book teamed up to give students at Wheatley Education Campus three free books each. In addition to the free books, students were also treated to a visit from characters like Dr. Seuss, and Clifford the Big Red Dog. This was part of a national effort to get books into the hands of low income children.

“We’re thrilled to have new books to give to kids to keep,” said Wheatley EC Principal Scott Cartland. “These are great books, great titles and [this program] enhances and supports what we’re doing around literacy. We’re grateful to Target and First Book for letting this happen.”

3,000 books went to Wheatley students, and 400,000 books have gone, or will go, to District students. The number is one million for the entire country.

Complete coverage from DCPS.

Washingtonian: Best of Capitol Hill

Sidamo Coffee and Tea was among the many H Street businesses mentioned in the article.

I was flipping through the latest issue of the Washingtonian yesterday, and they have a nice short feature The Best of Capitol Hill (print only). Several places along the H Street Corridor made the list.

WP: Making Streetcars "Work"

An opinion piece from the Post on how streetcars can work, or not work, in DC. I found the bit about zoning and surrounding development interesting.

Red Palace is Coming

Jonny Porkpie, originally uploaded by lindseyastin.

I got a sneak peak of the upstairs space on Saturday night, and it looks pretty sweet. The upstairs really is much larger than you would think, and I think it's going to impress people when it opens on the 15th. I didn't have my camera that night, but luckily they've now got some photos up on Facebook. Check 'em out. By the way, both the Palace of Wonders (despite what Yelp says) and the Red and the Black are open downstairs during construction.

Metro Mutts Hit With Graffiti

Sadly someone decided some racist and anti-gay graffiti would look really nice on the door of local pet supply store Metro Mutts. The vandal, who struck late Saturday, or early Sunday, scrawled two messages. The first included the word "cracker," and the second was along the lines of [gay slur] get out of our city. He/she/they also drew a large penis on the door. Stay classy people!

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UPDATE

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Here's exactly what it said (from a Metro Mutts Tweet):

"Arrived at the store today to find the following words spray painted on our door 'Cracker (large penis illustration) get out my city fag'."

Food in DC: Star & Shamrock Review

Food in DC writes up the Star & Shamrock.

Every Which Way I Look...Construction

Some good, some bad, and some that just never seems to end.

WT: Watch H Street Growth From Condos

The Washington Times looks at the Landmark Lofts. Unfortunately, the author makes a small, but embarrassing, goof when she writes about the nightlife on H Street. She suggests that people could patronize various hotspots "including the Rock and Roll Hotel, Pap and Petey's for jazz, and the Palace of Wonders, which has a vaudeville stage." Oops, Pap and Petey's closed quite a while back, and Toyland opened up in the space in February. The article also has some random, and weird linking choices, but it's mostly about the lofts. So, whatever.

WAMU: the Florida Market Celebrates 80 Years

WAMU looks at changes at the Florida Market as it celebrates a birthday.

Interesting fact: that sign promising you won't recognize the place? The phone number has been disconnected. Hmm...

Thrillist: Chuck's Wagon Bar-B-Q

Thrillist has the details on Chuck's Wagon Bar-B-Q which recently opened at 650 H Street.

Euro Style, Indeed

euro style, indeed, originally uploaded by philliefan99.

A sure win from Frozen Tropics Flickr pool user philliefan99.

CP: Old School Clothiers Ponder Their Role on H

George's Place isn't featured in the article, but the store has stood on the same corner for decades, and always has great window displays.

The City Paper talks to Stan's and Men's Fashion Center about what the future may hold.