Second Line @the Atlas

Tribute Productions
presents
Second Line
by Seret Scott

directed by Mary Hall Surface
Starring Erika Rose and Jefferson A. Russell

October 2-26, 2008

Spanning a 20 year period of tumultuous social change, Second Line is the story of two black college students whose lives are shaped by the stormy events of the 1960s and 70s. Although deeply in love, Bennie and JoJo find their commitment to each other challenged by tough choices that force them to reexamine what they have at stake personally in the civil rights movement and the Vietnam conflict.

PERFORMANCES
Previews:
October 2 and 3 at 8pm
Evenings:
Wednesday - Friday at 8pm
Matinees:
Saturday and Sunday at 3pm
Post show discussions:
October 3, 5, 8, 19 & 23

for tickets: 202.399.7993 or www.atlasarts.org
Valet parking is available for $10 for every performance.

Second Line was originally produced by Passage Theatre Company, Trenton, NJ, June Ballinger, Producing Artistic Director.

PLAN YOUR VISIT
Directions and Transportation
The newly renovated performing arts center is located on H Street in Northeast Washington near Capitol Hill.

Dining
Enjoy dining before or after the show along the historic H Street corridor.

Tribute Productions
a division of the Sprenger Lang Foundation
Atlas Performing Arts Center
1333 H Street, NE, Washington, DC

Copyright (C) 2008 *|Tribute Productions|* All rights reserved.

ANC 5B Meeting 10/2

The Trinidad Market and Deli is on Thursday's agenda

There is and ANC 5B meeting Thursday 10/2. The meeting begins at 7:30 and will likely last about two hours. This meeting is being held at a special meeting this month. The special location is the Trinidad Recreation Center [1310 Childress Street]. I haven't yet seen a copy of the agenda, but, we should be looking at public safety issues, and we will discuss the Trinidad Market and Deli's wish to purchase an existing Class B license to sell wine and beer. The Market is located on the corner of Florida and Trinidad.

Missed Connections NWL@

An alert reader sent me a link to this bizarre Craig's List post [I'll reproduce it in the name of preservation]-

Nat'l Wholesale Liquidators- the man who wasn't afraid to bare it all. - w4m - 18 (Hechinger Mall, NE)

---

Reply to: pers-857911074@craigslist.org ^[?]
Date: 2008-09-27, 9:18PM EDT

It was at 3:00 PM today.
I was wearing a pink tee and a denim mini.
You wore: nothing.
It was an interesting sight.
I was looking for some cheap maple furniture, and I saw your wood instead.
I was actually intrigued when the two security guards took you down.
How did it feel on that cold grimy floor?
Please, reply if you see this. I'm a student at Howard U.
-Shawna

• Location: Hechinger Mall, NE
• it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests

PostingID: 857911074

Atlas District First Thursdays

The Atlas District Celebrates Oktoberfest for First Thursday

The Atlas District’s second First Thursday events will celebrate the season with Oktoberfest. Thursday October 2, 2008 will find the bars and restaurants of H Street Northeast offering specials on beer and German treats.

Some of the Atlas District Oktoberfest events will be:

Dr. Granville Moore’s will feature selections of the best Oktoberfest beers from around the world. The kitchen plans on offering some tasty German specials. The staff, who enthusiastically dressed like the characters from Cheers during the first First Thursday’s 1984 night, is planning on donning “traditional Oktoberfest clothing.”

H Street Martini Lounge will offer wursts for $1 (while they last) and will have specials on their tasty German Chocolate Cake martini all night long.

Sticky Rice will have Pumpkin Ale for $3

The Argonaut Tavern will feature Oktoberfest beers and the kitchen will offer a brat and beer special.

The Red and the Black will offer $3 Harpoon Oktoberfest all night long.

The Rock and Roll Hotel’s kitchen will have pierogies, chicken schnitzel and grilled bratwurst on a stick.

Sova Espresso and Wine will be hosting a beer and cheese tasting that evening from 7pm-9pm. $25 per person (rsvp to info@sovadc.com)

The Atlas Performing Arts Center will have several performances that evening; Catalyst Theater’s stellar production of 1984, a preview performance of Second Line by Seret Scott and the Thursday Laugh Box comedy performance with Andrea Fuller in the Indigo Room. Atlas patrons can take their ticket stubs that evening to participating Atlas District venues to receive additional discounts.

Music is Bulletproof 10/2

It's time again for another Music is Bulletproof production. You can click on the images below to get larger versions with readable type, but I'll give a quick rundown.

Music is Bulletproof is dj music where the proceeds benefit the Victims of Violent Crime Compensation Fund. The suggested donation for the night of music is 5 dollars [but you could always give more]. In 2006 DJ Key-K was working as a bartender / server at the Argonaut. After leaving work he walked to his girlfriend's house. As he neared the house he was attacked and shot in the head. He was found unconscious and bleeding. After multiple surgeries he recovered, but he now has a partially synthetic skull, and he lost an eye. DJ Key-K is a Panamanian immigrant and following his injury he had difficulty obtaining a new VISA because of red tape. Because he had been the victim of a violent crime he sought a U VISA. Here's some info on the U VISA-

The U visa was created by the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Prevention Act, enacted in October 2000. It is available to noncitizens who 1) have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse resulting from a wide range of criminal activity, and 2) have been helpful, are being helpful or are likely to be helpful with the investigation or prosecution of the crime. The U visa provides eligible immigrants with authorized stay in the United States and employment authorization.
-from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.

So, this year Music is Bulletproof is not only raising money for the victims, but also trying to raise awareness about the U VISA. Come on out for some great music that benefits a great cause.

Details are-
9pm
The Red and the Black
1212 H Street NE

Farmers Market Tomorrow

Don't forget tomorrow's farmers market.
What: A producers only market where you can get meats, veggies, fruits, cheeses, breads and more.
When: 9am-12pm
Where: The south side of the 600 block of H Street

Biz Week: Buy Now

Business Week calls the Atlas District an up-and-coming neighborhood. There's even a slide show featuring 15 such neighborhoods across the US.

--------------------------------------
Oops. The original version said 15 such neighborhoods in DC. I meant 15 such neighborhoods across the US.
---------------------------------------

Pug to Make Brunch A Regular Event

Every Sunday you can now enjoy the Pug's Sunday brunch starting at 12:30pm. They offer hangover hash, bloody marys [caution, they are strong], and beer. The Pug is located at 1234 H Street.

Soccer Switches to Thursdays at Kingsman Field - 7pm

Pick-up game. All ages and skill levels welcome. 13th and D.

Taylor Offers a Preview

Italian deli and specialty store Taylor is preparing to open its doors [1116 H Street] in mid to late October. If you want a preview of their sandwiches you can snag a sample this weekend at Barracks Row's Oktoberfest. Taylor will have a booth and visitors can partake of free samples Saturday September 27th from 11-5.

NYT: High Hopes and a Trendy Name

The New York Times reports on NoMa.

Fundraiser @SOVA 9/27

From 8pm-12am on Saturday September 27th visitors to SOVA will have the opportunity to bid at a silent auction on handcrafted items from Guatemala. The proceeds from the auction will go to Ak'Tenamit, an NGO with various initiatives in Guatemala [educating indigenous girls, increasing income and development, providing healthcare, improving sanitation, protecting the environment]. You can read more about the organization, or make an online donation, at their website.

African Continuum Theatre Co. Presents Fresh Flavas

The Atlas' own African Continuum Theatre Company opens its new season with a free play reading festival that is open to the public [reservations recommended]. The festival features new work from Jennifer L. Nelson, Sherry Shepard- Massat and Kara Cothron. The works focus on family, legacy, and self-identity through a mix of humor and drama.

Fresh Flavas
New play reading festival
All performances start at 7:30 pm
Atlas Performing Arts Center
Dramaturgy by Jacqueline Lawton

24,7, 365
by Jennifer L. Nelson
directed by Kenyatta Rogers
Sunday, October 5

A Soft Escape
by Sherry Shepard-Massat
directed by Danielle A. Drakes
Sunday, October 12

Holly Down in Heaven
by Kara Corthron
directed by Shirley Serotsky
Sunday, October 19


All readings are free and open to the public. Space is limited. Reservations are recommended, but not required.

Call 571.331.8189 for more information. Learn more about Fresh Flavas at www.africancontinuumtheatre.com.

Looking Back on the Festival

The 2006 H Street Festival

What were people's impressions of this year's festival versus the festivals of years past? Where is the festival headed in the future? Here a few thoughts on my end-
-there was less publicity this year [and I didn't think there was even a whole lot last year]
-the turnout seemed good, but I'm not sure how it compared to that of last year.
-I think the fact that people still turned out shows that people have gotten used to the idea of an annual H Street Festival and now anticipate the event.
-the selection and quality of vended food was better this year
-many of the easily recognizable advertising vendors seemed to return from last year

Did you know the first H Street Festival was held in the mid-1970s 1985? The festival has been held some years, but not every year continuously since that time.

Express: 1984

The Express recently carried this review of 1984.

Pap and Petey's Menu and Specials

Pap and Petey's sent over their new menu and list of nightly specials. Pap and Petey's is located at 421 H Street.

Eats

Tasty Tune Ups!

Spinach & Artichoke Dip - $5.00
Nachos - $5.00
Chicken Nachos - $6.00
Hummus w/Pita or Whole Grain Wheat Chips - $6.00
(Delicious traditional or Roasted Red Pepper)
Chips and Salsa - $4.50
Quesadilla - $6.00
Mozzarella Sticks w/Spicy Sauce - $3.00


The Burger Brothers!

Ham Burger - $5.00
Cheese Burger - $6.00
Veggie Burger - $5.50
Turkey Burger - $5.50
* served w/chips and/or choice of sides
Toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, relish/mustard/mayo/ketchup
Cheese/add .50 cents


P&P Dawgs!

Hot Dogs (2 served on bun w/chips) - $3.50
Italian Sausage* (sweet or spicy) - $6.00
Bratwurst* - $6.00
Half-Smoke* - $5.00
Kielbasa* - $5.00
*served on Kaiser w/chips - sides extra
Toppings: scallions, peppers, tomatoes, onions, cheese, relish


Petey’s Picks!

Chicken Salad Sandwich* - $5.00
Chicken Breast Sandwich* - $6.00
Tuna Sandwich* - $5.00
Barbeque Sandwich - $6.00
(With baked beans)
Ham & Cheese* - $5.00
Turkey Breast Sandwich* - $6.00
*served w/chips - sides/extra
Whole wheat (toast optional) or Kaiser roll


Pap’s Platters!

Buffalo Wings (tangy & spicy or honey barbeque – w/ranch or blue cheese side) - $8.00
Loaded Baked Potato (sour cream, scallions, onions, peppers, tomatoes, cheese, bacon) - $7.50
Bourbon Chicken Plate (w/potato salad or choice of side) – 7.50
Crab Cake Medallion Plate (w/coleslaw or choice of side) - $8.00
Baby Back Rib Plate (w/potato salad or choice of side) - $8.00

Jazzy Fresh Salads!

Garden Salad - $4.00
Chicken Breast Salad - $6.00
Tuna Garden Salad - $5.00
Chicken Garden Salad - $5.00
Fruit Salad - $3.00

The Side Beats: Potato Salad - Baked Beans - Cole Slaw - Mac & Cheese
*All sides $2.00

Desserts: Cheesecake – Sinful Chocolate Cake – Apple Pie (ala-mode add $1.00)
*All desserts $3.75


Beers & Beverages

Domestic

Budweiser - $3.50
Bud Light - $3.50
Yuengling - $4.00
Sam Adams - $4.00
Sam Adams/Seasonal (summer) - $4.50
Blue Moon - $5.00

Imports

Corona Extra - $4.00
Amstel Light - $4.00
Modela Negro - $5.00
Chimay Ale (Red) - $7.00
Heineken - $5.00
Red Stripe - $5.00

Down Home Blues - Beer Specials

Schlitz Malt-Red Bull - $2.00
Pabst Blue Ribbon - $2.00
(Cans only)


Soft Drinks, Fruit & Specialty Drinks

Coca-Cola, Sprite, Orange Juice Raspberry Juice - $2.00

Red Bull Energy Drink - $3.00


Wines


Chardonnay
Shiraz
Pinot Noir
Merlot


*all wines $8.00 served by glass only


Specialty Drinks


Muddy Waters
(Jack Daniels Shot w/Bud)

Rhythm & Blues

Flirtini

DC Tea
(Long Island Ice Tea – DC Style)

Billie Holiday

Night in Tunisia
(Grand Marnier, O.J., Coke w/Orange Slice)

Check out the nightly specials-

SUN: NFL Football! - - Doors Open at 1pm

MON: Monday Night Football (2 Games!) - Pre-Game Starts at 7:00pm

TUES: Movies You Should've Seen!! - Starts 7:00pm

9/23 "The Bourne Identity"

WED: Live Jazz: Zeebop/Acoustic Trio - 8-11PM

THURS: Live Jazz: Rio Garage Band - Brazillian/Acoustic - 8-11PM

FRI: In-House Concerts - Menu/Drink Special and Jazz/R&B DJ's

SAT: In-House Concerts - Specials & Upcoming LIVE Jazz/Blues & R&B

ALSO:

Stop By Early During the Week - While Pap & Petey's Tests its NEW LUNCH HOURS and MENU ...

Greater Greater Washington: X2 Ridership

A local blog looks at X2 ridership stats.

Florida Market Tour Saturday

Another chance to catch our semi-regular tour of the Florida/Capital City Market-
Explore Florida Market/Capital City Market
Saturday 9 - 11 am
Meet outside New York Avenue Metro station (Florida Avenue exit)
End at Litteri’s Italian Deli, 517 Morse Street, NE
The Florida Market is the city’s major wholesale food distribution center. The tour will stop at restaurants and vendors, including the DC Farmers Market building, and address development issues such as increased demand for urban living. Led by Richard Layman and presented by Citizens Planning Coalition, Frozen Tropics weblog, and Rebuilding Place in the Urban Space weblog.

You can also meet us at 8am at Young's for Korean/Salvadorian food.

WP: New Beginnings @Webb/Wheatley Elementary

The Post has a piece of Webb/Wheatley Elementary School, and some info on how you can help the school out when you shop at Giant, Target, or Safeway.

Daily Candy: Go

Daily Candy takes note of the H Street Festival.

Karaoke in the Sake Garden @the H Street Festival

Sticky Rice is also using the opportunity to launch their full lunch service. Here's what they had to say-

This Saturday (9/20) is the H St festival-----join us for karaoke and drinks in our special event sake garden!!!! Everything from A-ha to White Zombie. We got it, you sing it. Our pain is your gain. We're also happy to announce that this will be our first day of lunch service featuring our entire menu. Festivities start at 11:30am sharp.

CP: Englert Update

The City Paper chats with Joe Englert about his latest endeavors on H.

Soccer Tonight Kingsman Field- 7pm

The usual weekly pick-up game. All ages and skill levels welcome. 13th and D Streets NE

Celebrate Chimay and a Birthday @Dr Granville's

Chef Teddy Folkman wants you to turn out for the festivities!
Photo by Shaaren Pine

Announcement-

Granville Moore's is honored to announce that we will host a “25 Year Celebration of Chimay Trappist Ales in America” at Granville Moore's (1238 H St NE, Washington, DC) on Thursday, September 25th, 2008. As well we will be celebrating our (belated) 1 Year Anniversary. In attendance will be none other than Luc "Bobo" Van Mechelen from Manneken-Brussels Imports sharing some of his amazing Chimay Ales and serving up his Flemish Stew alongside a special Granville's Anniversary Menu. No reservations, no tickets, just show up and enjoy the festivities!

Chimay Tastings – Food Specials – Raffles – Storytelling – Celebrating!

What: 25 Year Celebration of Chimay Trappist Ales in America / Granville Moore's (Belated) 1 Year Anniversary

When: Thursday, September 25, 2008 5pm - Close

Where: Granville Moore's 1238 H Street NE Washington, DC 20002

Questions? Call us at 202.399.2546 (BLGM) or email us at: granvillemoores[at]gmail.com

Cheers,

The Managers, Owners and Staff of Granville Moore's

Sunday Specials @Langston Bar and Grille

I received the following from the owner of Langston Bar and Grille-


Langston Bar & Grille is pleased to offer the following weekly drink
and food specials. Please come out and enjoy. Great Food, Great People,
Great Drinks. All are welcome.
Thanks,
Antonio Roberson
Owner
Langston Bar & Grille
1831 Benning Road, NE
Washington, DC 20002

Monday... $5 Mojito Monday, Takoma Station Wings (One Dollar Off)
Tuesday... $5 Tequila Tuesday, Meatloaf Madness (Two Dollars Off)
Wednesday... $5 Rail Drink Special, Turkey Burger (Two Dollars Off)
Thursday... Pork Spare Ribs (Two Dollars Off)
Friday... Fried Fish (Two Dollars Off)
Saturday... Ox Tail ((Two Dollars Off w/ Cocktail)
Sunday... Sunday Brunch $9, NFL games all day long. Open at 11:30am

To view full menu - http://langstonbar.com/menu.html

Rachel Ray Raves About H Street

I can't find it online, but the October issue of Everyday with Rachel Ray has plenty of praise for H Street establishments in the Atlas District. Mentioned are-

Doctor Granville's 1238 H Street
Rock and Roll Hotel 1353 H Street
Palace of Wonders 1210 H Street
Horace and Dickie's 809 12th Street
H Street Martini Lounge 1236 H Street

We Love DC: Sticky Rice

A review of Sticky Rice.

WP: 8 Members of Bloods Indicted in DC

The Post reports on the indictments of 6 men and 2 women alleged to be members of the Bloods for assault, sexual assault, and kidnapping. The crimes for which they were charged occurred in DC, but not in our area [the 4900 block of Astor Place SE and the 4500 block of Grant Street NE]. I'm mentioning the article here because I think it is of general interest.

Note that the police and prosecutors are unsure whether they are really looking at a group truely associated with the West Coast Bloods, or if these are just people trying to claim that association.

Wait, Your Hostel is Where?

I received an email tipping off to the existence of a new hostel called DC Lofty. It's located just off H Street. You could easily miss it because there is no sign out front. But they do have a website with photos.

From the website-

Our address is 815 7th st, NE Washington DC 20002. It's one of the nicest areas in Washington DC, with an H street mall and a library less than one block away, and the metro 10 minute walk away, about 5 blocks.

Our location is less than a block away from a large mall, with all your shopping needs.

They should totally have played up the free WiFi at the carryout McDonald's.

Happy 3rd Birthday Argonaut

H Street Festival Saturday

They've been a tad light on the publicity this year, so I wanted to remind people that the event is happening on Saturday. Also, the Festival is seeking some last minute volunteers. Please send an email to lahowell[at]gmail.com if you would be willing to lend a hand.

-------------------------------
I fixed an earlier typo in the email address. Sorry about that.
-------------------------------

Pug to Test Brunch During Festival

As everyone hopefully knows by now, the H Street Festival is Saturday from 12pm-6pm. The Pug plans to open about 12pm and offer something called Hangover Hash. Owner Tony T. describes Hangover Hash as a distant, unhealthy cousin of corn beef hash. You can wash down your hash with a beer, but they'll also be offering bloody marys and mimosas. The Pug is located at 1234 H Street.

Jimmy Valentine's Investigative Report

The team behind Jimmy Valentine's Lonely Hearts Club has graciously provided a copy of the recent ABRA investigative report [which basically gave them a clean bill of health]. This report was compiled in response to a five citizen protest of the renewal of their license. I wanted to post it here because-

1. one of the protesters recently posted a comment here summarizing the hearing, and I don't think the summary was a fair representation of the hearing and investigation [so I'm hoping the report will clear things up and add context]

2. there has been a great deal of chatter regarding the posting of the same comment left here on various listservs

The report is 60 pages, but it contains lots of photos, so it's a quick read.
Download links are below-
Part 1
Part 2

I will also add that the owners of the tavern entered into a voluntary agreement with ANC 5B prior to obtaining their license, and ANC5B does not consider them to be in breach of that agreement.

Happy Hour @Napa 1015

Happy hour at NAPA 1015
Tuesday-Saturday 5:00-8:00PM
Rail drinks $4
Little plates $5

NAPA 1015
202-396-6272

Little Plates
.................................................................

House made Lamb Sausage with Quince & Red Onion Salsa
over White Beans

Mussels with Feta, Scallion and Tomatoes in Wine Sauce

Grilled Chorizo and Chick Peas

Stuffed Eggplant with Slice Tomatoes and Mozzarella

Salmon Cakes with Lemon Caper Aioli

Braised Beef Short Ribs w Maple Chipotle Sauce

Corn and Sage Polenta Cakes with Chard Tomato

$5
...................................

Rail Happy hour specials
Jamaica Margaritas ~ Lime Margaritas ~ Mojitos ~ Martinis ~ Sol beer ~ Heineken Sangria ~ Champagne Kir Royal ~ Champagne Kir Imperial
Tunnel of Elms Cabernet Sauvignon ~ Tunnel of Elms shorten

$ 4

Dissident Display Opening Reception Tomorrow

Dissident Display presents Space Invaders, an exhibition on futurism and the African art legacy. The exhibit, which features works by several artists, runs from September 12th-October 4th. Don't miss the opening reception tomorrow night [details above]. Follow the link for more details.

Soccer Tonight at Kingsman Field - 7:00 pm

The usual weekly pick-up game. All ages and skill levels welcome. 13th and D Streets NE

Art Exhibit Opening on H

Image provided by HEMPHILL Fine Arts

I received an email about this, and it sounds pretty interesting. The location is the large building, which I often call the Mart because of a sign it once had, that Taurus Development has been renovating. This is one of a series of exhibits Taurus has invited to use the space. I'm told that the artist will be present at the opening, and that they will also have two representatives from Rock the Vote on hand to register voters.

JOHN WATSON: "Better now than they once was," a site-specific installation sponsored by HEMPHILL and Taurus Development.
1341 H Street NE, Washington, DC
September 19 - November 1, 2008
Opening Reception: Friday, September 19, 7 - 9 PM

From the press release-

Watson's site-specific installation is composed of post and beam structures, placed to reorient the gallery into a series of new engaging spaces. The H Street installation also includes five spare graphite drawings on oversize sheets of paper, which further emphasize the thoughtfully manipulated space. The structures and drawings bring a heightened awareness to the architecture and compel the audience to reexamine the ways that art can exist in all spaces, from inside the gallery to the street.

The exhibit will be open to the public Saturdays from 10am-4pm.

Argo Fall Specials

Fall at The Argonaut

1433 H Street, NE

Happy Hour
5 pm – 7 pm (Monday – Friday)
$4 rail drinks
$1 off draft beer

Football
NFL Sunday Ticket
10 TVs
$5 off pitchers during all NFL games
$5 off pitchers during all Saturday college games

Nightly Specials:
Mondays: ½-price bottles of wine
Tuesdays: Fish Tacos & West Coast IPA - $11
Wednesdays: Family Night – Kids Eat Free
Thursdays: Neighborhood Night – 10% off for all 20002 residents

Pub Quiz
Wednesday nights (8 pm) upstairs 21+
1st Place = $50 Argo Gift Certificate
2nd Place = $25 Argo Gift Certificate
Prize for Best Team Name
Prize for Last Place

New fall menu (coming soon)
Sunday Brunch 11 am – 3 pm
Try Our Seasonal Beers

TIC Garden Club Treebox Tune-Up Sunday

Our treeboxes need some weeding and other TLC. Join the group at the corner of Florida and Montello at 9am. Don't forget to bring water [you'll be able to refill the bottle]. Bringing a spade and gloves is also a good idea if you have them.

6th and H Circa 1925

Shorpy's has a great old photo of the building located there in 1925. This building as stood where Murry's parking lot now sits.

RCA Meeting Tonight

Announcement-

Hello everyone,

The Rosedale Citizens Alliance will be meeting Monday night. This
will be our first meeting after the summer break and after our very
successful Garden Cookout, held July 27th. Join us as we plan our
activities for the fall in Rosedale and the surrounding community.

When: Monday, September 8th, 7:30-9PM
Where: SOVA, 1359 H St NE

Hope to see you there!
-Rick Uzes, President
and members of the Rosedale Citizens Alliance

Center City Public Charter Schools, Trinidad

Education Weekly covers the Trinidad campus of Center City Public Charter Schools and its conversion from the Catholic school Holy Name.

Meanwhile, in the West End...

A reader writes that-


1) A fire gutted a house on the 900 block of 3rd St NE yesterday. The wood-frame house had already been dilapidated and may have been unoccupied. Inbound rush-hour traffic on K St was snarled as MPD blocked the westbound lanes at 4th St, forcing traffic to turn left there. 3rd St was also closed on the block of the fire.

2) An embarrassing eviction notice has been posted on the former leasing offices of Senate Square in the Railway Express Building (900 2nd St NE, across the street from the aprtments). According to the court summons, the defendant "United Enterprises LLC" owes $60,000 in back rent. Senate Square is managed by Bozzuto Management, so I'm not sure what connection if any they have to the defendant. But the leasing offices were the last apparent use of that space.

WP: 1984 Rewired For the 21st Century

The Post offers a very favorable review of Catalyst Theater's staging of 1984. The production runs through October 5th at the Atlas. Tickets are 10 dollars.

Considering The Shell Station

I received an email today from someone whose parents have owned and operated a few gas stations over the past several decades. At least one of these stations was located in a transitional neighborhood in a major urban center on the east coast. This individual has been watching the debate over a station on Maryland Ave with great interest. I thought I'd go ahead and re-post the email because the author 1. clearly researched the issue a great deal, 2. has no real horse in this race, and 3. is in a position to know about the economics and everyday realities of owning and running such a store. Brackets indicate editing on my part. The thoughts and opinions below are those of the author, not mine. So here you go-

1. [Residents of the immediate area have a] vested interest in keeping out a 24/7 gas station that will have its lights on all the time. But lights are necessary to discourage crime. Of course, it doesn't actually stop it from happening all the time.

2. More gas stations in the area introduces price competition, which means cheaper gas for everyone. I don't understand why gas is so expensive in DC. It's always much cheaper to buy it outside of the city. Situating a gas station means clustering for better price competition which is ultimately best for the consumer. Another gas station in the area will actually likely be a good thing for gas pricing.

3. If the existing gas stations have a problem with crime, they need to speak to the police department and get a larger presence there. Post signs that say no parking for longer than 30 minutes for non-employees or something like that. Regular visits by policemen do make a large difference in loitering and robbery. Police cannot be everywhere at once, but a regular presence does make a difference. As far as some of the statistics cited for crimes at gas stations on the protest site, what kind of theft? People not locking car doors and having something lifted? (Their own carelessness.) Or people driving off without paying for gas? (Which is extremely common.) Or do they mean an actual mugging? Sorry to sound like I'm splitting semantic hairs here, but theft from a vehicle shouldn't happen if people lock up. Was it from a parked employee car or at a pump under the canopy light? Or in a parking lot behind the station?

4. Crime only happens if you tolerate it. If the existing gas station franchisees have a problem with crime and you as a consumer will not shop there, write to the gas company they represent and tell them why you won't shop there. Yes, they care. They send out secret shoppers to monitor their stations. Be a proactive consumer and complain. It will get back to the franchise owner. Believe me. It does and they do get dinged for it when it comes time to buy other franchises or by scores and incentives for a regional area.

5. Most gas stations are franchises, though I hear in DC-proper that's not necessarily true. The cost to develop the land is almost always borne by the gas company and then rented back to the franchise owner at a very high price. You can complain to DAG all you want. When they give up, the gas company will find another franchisee to take the spot. It's DAG now, but Shell Corp most certainly is backing them up on this and if it's not DAG later, it will be someone else.

6. Retail gas in DC has approximately 10% margin on gas, which is atypical. In most other areas of the country, it's about 3-5%. Because there is a lot of government/business reimbursement for fuel here, they can jack up the price. The gas as loss leader model does not hold up here, but convenience store sales are gravy on top.

7. I am a little confused about where tax incentives are to the gas station (Someone mentioned this in the comments). From what I saw on the protest website and the Examiner article (Which was a little thin) there wasn't anything about tax breaks. Gas stations pay quite a lot in taxes as do most businesses. Do you want the tax revenue to DC or not? As a city park, there is no revenue being generated by that land. (Nor does languishing undeveloped property bring in much.)

8. Example of costs in running a gas station:
-Good faith money to the gas company: $200K+
-Start up costs to staff, train, uniform employees
-Advertising
-Payroll taxes
-Taxes on the gas
-Cigarette, snack and beverage taxes (where applicable)
-Rent on the gas station (Easily in the low $10K's per month, but that's just a guess, and an indirect property tax paid)
-Multiple phone lines to run the credit card lines, phone line, fax line, lottery, ATM machine. (That's at least 5 lines all paying telecom taxes)
-Electrician for extra wiring for ATM, lottery machines and phone lines
-Utility bill for running lights and refrigerators 24/7/365
-Business taxes, licensing
-General insurance policy of at minimum probably about $2 million
-Trash disposal (minimum of a 4yd)
-Alarm system for fire and robbery

9. To address the environmental issue someone mentioned, there would be double hulled tanks and testing wells sunk in to the ground some distance away from the property to ensure there is no leakage from the tanks. These monitoring wells will be about a foot wide or less and situated in varying distances away from the stations. As far away, or further, as across the street. I don't know what DC has in terms of oversight, but that's what it's like in PA. (We're talking "across the street" as in a 4 lane road.) Residential property owners around the station may also have a well sunk onto their property.

10. As the question of people's livelihoods, I can tell you that a franchisee (DAG) with over 30 gas stations in operations is likely doing quite well and deserves no sympathy.

11. As to the question of livelihood for store employees, it's a minimum wage job with a shift differential pay for nights and weekends (maybe). It's transitional work for college kids and new immigrants. No one stays for long, nor should they. There's no health insurance or retirement for employees. It's a tedious job and no smoking allowed.

12. FWIW, DAG is African-American owned. His political contributions, clearly Democrat

Soccer Tonight

Kingman Field

13th and D Streets NE

6:30 pm

Pick-up game. All ages and skill levels welcome.

What's Your Walk Score?

I've played with this site before, but was reminded of it by a recent email. Using it you can type in your address and it will calculate the walkability of your neighborhood. Scores can vary depending on your block. What is your score?

WP: Body Found on Tracks Near Union Station

The Post reports that a body on the train tracks just northeast of Union station is preventing Marc trains from accessing the station. The body was reported to police a little before 8am. An investigation is underway.

Atlas District Venues Establish First Thursdays Series!

Press release-


First Theme to focus on Orwell's 1984

(Washington, DC-The restaurants, clubs and theaters on H Street Northeast's popular new Atlas District have announced they will begin hosting a monthly First Thursdays series. The first Thursday of each month will be an opportunity for the various venues to host events around a certain theme. The initial First Thursday will touch on the theme of 1984 George Orwell's dystopian masterpiece about a menacing not-too-distant future.

The 1984 theme was picked to coincide with Catalyst Theater Company's production of the Orwell classic at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. Catalyst is the newest resident company of the Atlas and the production has been highly anticipated by area residents. "Catalyst is known for producing edgy, challenging work." said Atlas Executive Director Patrick Stewart. "I think H Street is a perfect fit for the company and we are thrilled to have them here." Catalyst is also known for its $10 ticket policy a radical move that got the company noticed by arts press around the city as well as around the country.

Catalyst Theater’s Artistic Director Scott Fortier said, “We hope we are going to find new Catalyst fans in the Atlas District. We are honored they have chosen our show as the theme."

The H Street establishments are playing fast and loose with the 1984 theme with the majority of the venues focusing more on the fun found in remembering the 1980s rather than Orwell's terrifying vision of the future featuring a tyrannical overlord watching society's every move.

"So we're stretching things a bit." said H Street's most visible entrepreneur Joe Englert. "We want people to come on out and have fun and enjoy what all the clubs and restaurants are offering."

Some of the First Thursday events will include:

* '80's Trivia Night at the Argonaut-the Argo's usual pub quiz will still be held on Wednesday, but they'll also be holding a special Thursday quiz that will focus on minutia from the era of big hair and jelly shoes. Brush up on your John Hughes' films!
* '80's Dance Party at the Rock and Roll Hotel. Because everyone loves to Safety dance
* '80's Karaoke at Sticky Rice. Madonna Wannabees can belt out the era's biggest hits.
* "I Love The 80's" at the H Street Martini Lounge. The Lounge will award prizes for the "Best Dressed" (think Miami Vice Suits and Michael Jackson's "Thriller" jackets to Flashdance, Legwarmers and Madonna's "Like A Virgin" outfits), and will conduct a "Fastest Rubik's Cube” contest.
* For one night only Doctor Granville Moore's will transform from a Belgian-themed gastropub into the fictional but beloved Cheers. The staff and some regulars will be dressed as characters from the "80s sitcom. In addition to the usual menu of Belgian beers, selections from Boston's Sam Adams Brewery will be available. Look for New England clam chowder and Boston Baked Beans on the list of specials. Patrons are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite sitcom character.
* SOVA espresso and Wine is hosting a Wine Tasting to benefit the H Street Community Market, a group working to establish a food coop in the H Street neighborhood. Plan on listening to ‘80's tunes while sampling a variety of wines. Local Wines and cheeses will be paired perfectly and introduced by Chuck Billand, Sommelier and owner of Patowmack Farm and Restaurant. More information and tickets can be found at www.hstcommunitymarket.org

The festivities will take place the evening of September 4th, 2008. The Atlas District plans on holding First Thursday events each month, always with a different theme such as Octoberfest.

Catalyst Theater's 1984 runs until October 5th. More information can be found at www.catalysttheater.org

For more information on First Thursdays contact:

Jen DeMayo.
jdemayo@atlasarts.org
202.399.7993 ext 125

--------------------------------
UPDATE
We have an event that got left out the first time around.
Pull out those sunglasses-tease the hair-and grab your leather ties -
Join U.B.U.'s resident DJ Mellie Mel as she spins the great 80's trax at the Red & Black. All on vinyl-how 80's is that? (U.B.U. is a monthly Alternative 80's Dance Party at the R&B www.myspace.com/ubu_dc) from 5:30-9:30. Children of the '80s and new converts, should come enjoy great drink specials, some of the most popular and iconic songs, and a celebration of 1980s pop culture scene. Play Galaga and win a price if you get the top score of the hour. Or come dressed up as a RECOGNIZABLE 80s character this Thursday and get your second drink on the house. Happy Hour runs from 5-8pm.

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

Napa 1015's Fall Menu

NAPA 1015
202-396-6272

FALL MENU

Entrées
~~*~~
Montrachet Gnocchi with Braised Spinach , Wild Mushrooms & herbs in a Sun-dried Tomato Cream..$16

Gulf Shrimp Pasta with Fennel, Tomatoes, Capers, Feta & Herbs in a Sherry Pepper Sauce… $18

Grilled 12 oz. Angus NY Steak with a Gorgonzola cream topped with Crispy Onion Straws $23

Crispy Skin Salmon with Citrus Fennel Sauce … $18

Grilled Pork Loin Chop with Braised Cabbage & Cinnamon Green Apples.. $18

Pan Roasted Muscovy Duck Breast with Wild Rice Griddle Cakes and a Cherry Port Sauce..$22

Lamb Shanks with Curried Roasted Pumpkin and Warm Lentils..$18

Sauteed Breast of Chicken with Wild Mushrooms and leeks in a Sage Cream Sauce..$16
Grilled Tofu and Vegetable Provencal..$14



Sides
Mac & Cheese…$5 Ratatouille…$5 Garlic Seared Bok choy…$5
Braised Cabbage…$5 Mashed Potatoes…$5 Lentils…$5
*******************************

Pre Theater Menu
1st
French Onion or Soup du Jour

Caesar Salad with Anchovies, Shaved Parmesan Cheese, Herb Garlic Croutons and House Made Caesar Dressing

Local Field Green Salad with Blue Cheese, Pecans and Roasted Pear Vinaigrette
Escargot with garlic butter sauce in Puff Pastry

Peppered Salmon Lox
2nd
Montrachet Gnocchi with Braised Spinach, Wild Mushrooms, and herbs in a Sun-dried Tomato Cream

Gulf Shrimp Pasta with Fennel, Tomatoes, Capers, Feta & Herbs in a Sherry Pepper Sauce

Crispy Skin Salmon with Citrus Fennel Sauce

Lamb Shanks with Curried Roasted Pumpkin and Warm Lentils

Sauteed Breast of Chicken with Wild Mushrooms, leeks in a Sage Cream Sauce

3rd
Warm Apple Strudel with Cinnamon Ice Cream

Chocolate Nut Cake

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Cup Cake Du jour
$30

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


Appetizers
~~*~~
French Onion Soup with Parma Cheese Croutons and
Swiss Cheese… $7

Soup Du jour /Chefs daily Creation ..$7

Caesar Salad with Anchovies, Parmesan Cheese, Herb Garlic Crouton and House Made Caesar Dressing… $8

Spinach Salad with Fingerling Potatoes, Goat Cheese, Red Onion and Beet Vinaigrette … $8

Local Organic Field Green Salad with Blue Cheese, Pecans and Roasted Pear-Vinaigrette… $8

Roasted Portabella and Ratatouille with Sun-dried Tomato and Goat Cheese… $8
Escargot with garlic butter sauce in Puff Pastry..$9

Peppered Salmon Lox
House cured Salmon Garnished with Egg , Tomato and Capers Served with Lemon Crème Friache..$10

Cheese Board 3/$12 or 5/$15
Fig & Orange Spread, Toasted Almonds, Quince & Red onion Relish


Fresh Mussels /Chefs Daily Creation w Crostini $10

Examiner: Proposed Gas Station Draws Protests

The Examiner covers the controversy over a proposed Shell station on Maryland Ave.

ANC Petition Update [UPDATED]

Here is a list of local ANC Candidates who have picked up/filed petitions. I'm listing all the candidates from ANC 5B, ANC 6A, and ANC 6C. People can still pick up petitions, and candidates must turn in petitions with 25 signature in order for their names to appear on the ballot. Names in purple are incumbents. Names in red show candidates running as incumbents, but who replaced other Commissioners who resigned partway through their terms. Names in black are non-incumbents.

ANC 5B
5B01 William C. Shelton..................8/13/08
5B02 Muriel A. Lee................................8/6/08
5B02 Patricia Brown-Daniels.................8/19/08
5B03 Regina James............................8/15/08
5B04 Morgan Whitlock.....................8/27/08
5B04 Rayseen Woodland.................8/11/08
5B05 Javier Sanchez....................8/7/08
5B05 Taha Shabazz........................8/11/08....8/27/08
5B06 Bernice Hall.......................8/11/08.......8/13/08
5B06 Wilhelmina Lawson..........8/11/08
5B07 David L. Hooper....................8/22/08....8/26/08
5B08 H. Yvonne Buggs...............8/11/08
5B08 Tina Laskaris....................8/15/08
5B09 Jacqueline Manning.........8/7/08......8/12/08
5B10 India A. Henderson..........8/8/08
5B11 William H. Bill Myers, Jr........8/6/08
5B12 Maude E. Ababio...................8/6/08

ANC 6A
6A01 Raphael Marshall.................8/15/08
6A02 Jabriel S. Ballentine............8/26/08
6A02 Joseph V. Fengler...............8/22/08
6A03 David Holmes........................8/20/08
6A04 Nicholas Alberti.....................8/8/08
6A05 Betty L. Smalls......................./8/8/08
6A05 Mary Beatty............................8/14/08.....8/26/08
6A06 H. J. Amons, Sr......................8/12/08
6A06 William Schulteiss................8/20/08
6A07 Gladys Ann Mack....................8/6/08
6A08.............................NO CANDIDATE

ANC 6C
6C01 Keith Silver....................................8/13/08
6C02 Mark A. Dixon..........................8/6/08
6C03 Lena Brown..............................8/6/08
6C04 Anne M. Phelps.......................8/13/08
6C05 M. Tony Richardson.................8/7/08
6C06 Tom Hamilton.........................8/13/08
6C07 Ryan Velasco............................8/22/08
6C08 Karen J. Wirt.............................8/6/08.....8/19/08
6C09 Charley Doctor....................8/6/08

-----------------------------------
UPDATE
I added color coding and a couple of names that I had missed the first time around.
-----------------------------------


----------------------------------
UPDATE
Here's the most current version of the list [DCBOEE reporting as of August 28th]
----------------------------------

ANC5B Candidate Javi Sanchez

Here's a notice for a candidate running in Trinidad and Ivy City--

ANC 5B05 Election Announcement!

Local Trinidad resident Javi Sanchez launched his candidacy for ANC 5B05 today.

“I am running for ANC 5B05 because I still believe in the faith of our public and community leaders along with stakeholders in Trinidad and Ivy City to come to the table to renew their commitment to their constituents. Together forward!”

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

You can check out his candidate blog here.

ANC 6A01 SMD Meeting

I'm not sure what the meeting explicitly will cover, but I received a request from a resident to publicize it a bit, so here's part of the email he sent me-


Raphael Marshall will be having a ANC meeting on Wed September 3rd at the Tropicana at 7pm. Councilman Tommy Wells will also be attending. The meeting concerns the future of H Street.

Police Bait Bike Thieves

NBC4 reports that police have been using bait bikes to catch thieves on H Street. Apparently 2 bikes were placed in the 600 block of H Street and they bikes were stolen five times in under an hour. So please lock up your bike.