My Endorsement for ANC 5D02: Keisha Shropshire

Keisha Shropshire (ANC 5D02) was among a crop of new commissioners elected to Advisory Neighborhood Commission 5D who assumed their seats in January of 2015. I have spoken to, and otherwise interacted with Commissioner Shropshire extensively during her time representing a section of the Trinidad neighborhood on the Commission. I have also watched her take action, as not only a commissioner, but also as the Commissions’ elected treasurer. When she first took on the role of treasurer for the Commission she spent time to thoroughly review the state of ANC 5D’s finances and produce a report that noted any recent expenditures that appeared to deviate from the guidelines, or lack proper documentation. She has continued to produce accurate and through treasurer’s reports to help increase transparency regarding ANC 5D’s financial condition and spending.

Pow Pow Introduces New Weekend Breakfast Eggrolls

Sharkey from Pow Pow (1253 H St.) sent word that the restaurant will begin offering a breakfast option starting tomorrow. From 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday you'll be able to order one of their new breakfast eggrolls for $5. There are three filling options:

• Egg, steak, & cheddar
• Egg, pulled pork, & cheddar
• Egg, black bean, & cheddar

For a limited time you can get a free cup of coffee when you order a breakfast eggroll. This sounds like a perfect way to fuel up pre-farmers market.

Candidate Statement: Danny Smith ANC 6A06

As a public service I am publishing candidate statements sent to me by those running for Advisory Neighborhood Commission seats. The statements are informational only, and should not be taken as endorsements. Statements may be lightly edited for formatting.

Candidate statement for Danny Smith who is running as a write-in candidate for the ANC 6A06 seat:

Dear Neighbors,

My name is Danny Smith and I am a write-in candidate for Advisory Neighborhood Commission in ANC 6A06. I am a Washington, DC native and attended Gonzaga College High School not far from where I am now. Currently, I work for the U.S. Senate for Senator Cory Booker as his deputy counsel.

Candidate Statement: Bernice Blacknell ANC 5D04

As a public service I am publishing candidate statements sent to me by those running for Advisory Neighborhood Commission seats. The statements are informational only, and should not be taken as endorsements. Statements may be lightly edited for formatting.

Candidate statement for Bernice Blacknell, who is running for re-election to the ANC 5D04 seat:

You can vote and make a difference! Re-elect Commissioner Bernice Blacknell to ANC 5D04.

Ms. Blacknell has been an advocate for the Langston Community. She has attended, and continues to attend every Langston Resident Council meeting. She has assisted the Langston Resident Council with issues and concerns regarding the DC Streetcar project. Ms. Blacknell, along with the Kingman Park Civic Association, was instrumental in getting Spingarn High School, Browne Education Campus, Phelps Vocational High School, and Charles Young Two Rivers Public Charter School designated as Historic Landmarks to preserve the "Schools on the Hill." She has assisted the Langston Resident Council with advocating for school neighborhood boundary inclusion of children who would like to attend, and do attend, Charles Young Two Rivers Public Charter School. She also volunteers at the Langston Community Food Bank, and assists with holiday events.

Candidate Statement: Stephanie Zimny ANC 6A06

As a public service I am publishing candidate statements sent to me by those running for Advisory Neighborhood Commission seats. The statements are informational only, and should not be taken as endorsements. Statements may be lightly edited for formatting.

 

Statement from Stephanie Zimny, who is running for re-election as the commissioner for ANC 6A06:

Smart Advocacy for a Growing Community

Stephanie Zimny
ANC 6A06 Commissioner

The Northeast Capitol Hill neighborhood is an area rich in historic significance with a community of residents that makes it a truly special place to call home. There are a number of critical issues affecting the residents of the area including development, safety, litter reduction, and parking issues. Addressing the opportunities and challenges surrounding these and other important issues is the job of the ANC Commissioner.

Candidate Statement: Keisha Shropshire ANC 5D02

As a public service I am publishing candidate statements sent to me by those running for Advisory Neighborhood Commission seats. The statements are informational only, and should not be taken as endorsements. Statements may be lightly edited for formatting.

Statement from Keisha Shropshire, who is running for re-election as the commissioner for ANC 5D02:

 

Hello my fellow Trinidad neighbors!

My first term as your 5D02 ANC Commissioner is coming to an end in December.  It has been a privilege to represent our neighborhood the past two years and I would be honored to represent you again.  I'm running for re-election and would appreciate your vote and support on November 8!

Knife Assault in the 1400 Block of Orren Last Night

Police arrested a man for assaulting someone with a knife last night around 7:35 p.m. in the 1400 block of Orren Street in Trinidad. According to an email sent by MPD Lieutenant Brad S. Wagner (quoted below),  the victim knew the attacker. The original crime alert erroneously identified the location as the 1300 block of Orren Street, where residents were cleaning up following a community block party.

Local News Briefing: Dia de los Mezcales, Brewers on the Block, REI Opens, & Halloween at Rosedale

Bone up on your mezcal knowledge with Cordial Fine Wine & Spirits' (Union Market, 1309 Fifth St.) Dia de los Mezcales Thursday, Oct. 27 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets are $40, and you can learn more about the history, production, and varieties of the spirit. Enjoy five different mescals paired with selections from the BBQ Joint (also at Union Market).

Local News Brief: A Possible Hotel for H Street, & a Whiskey Release from One Eight Distilling

Michael Neibauer of the Washington Business Journal reports that we could see a hotel come to 609 H St. The property is owned by Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners, which recently sold the Anthology building (625 H St.). According to the article, the current idea calls for a hotel "[t]argeted at the younger, business-traveling demographic, the European-inspired AC Hotels are billed as stylish and urban, with curated lobbies and lounges."

Local News Brief: A Halloween Bash, Air Sex Championships, & a Mythology Review

Halloween will be upon us before we know it. The big day falling on a Monday likely ensures it will be all about handing out candy and maybe pulling up an old movie on Netflix. But you can still celebrate the weekend before, and the annual Halloween bash at Jimmy Valentine's (1103 Bladensburg Road) is a very good option. Tickets are required, and you also must wear a costume (I've actually seen them turn people away for lack of costume). The basic ticket is $15 (+ $2 handling fee), or $70 (+ $2) for the open bar option. Patrons must be 21 years or older. Saturday, Oct. 29, from 9 p.m. to close.

Suspected Vehicular Arsonist Caught on Tape

A reader sent in the following video of what appears to be a man using a device to ignite a car fire in a Near Northeast alley.

Dear Frozen Tropics,

We thought we should spread the word, in case this guy is a serial arsonist.  

On Friday morning at about 2:30 am, we found our car on fire in our alley (entrance at 3rd and K Street).  The video below (from a neighbor's security camera) shows the arsonist, though his face is covered.  Based on the video, we think he could have used a timer, and an explosive. Clearly, this guy has done this before. We'd like all of our DC neighbors to be on the lookout, and if they see someone who fits this MO, be aware that they could have a serious explosion and fire on their hands in 20 minutes. The guy appears to be about 6 feet tall, white, and carrying a large paper bag.  He has a distinct walk and run, and was wearing very baggie clothes and running shoes.  If we hear more from the DC FD investigator or police (and we're not holding our breath), or we can find another video that shows his face, we will update you.  

My Endorsement for ANC 5D03: Adam Roberts

The job of an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner is not an easy one. Commissioners represent approximately 2,000 residents. They work with others elected to their commission (and citizens committees in some ANCs) to offer advisory opinions on a range of issues (including "zoning, streets, recreation, education, social services, sanitation, planning, safety, budget, and health services") when a District or Federal agency seeks to take any action that will "significantly affect a neighborhood." When a developer or neighbor needs a special exception or a variance, they will seek a letter of support they can present at their BZA hearing. When a store, restaurant, or tavern, seeks to sell alcohol the ANC can offer its opinion to ABRA, and even protest the license until the two sides can reach a Settlement Agreement.

If You Like Breakfast, You'll Love BreakFEST

NoMa BID and Wunder Garten (1101 First St. NE) are hosting BreakFEST on Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are billing the event as an "urban outdoor brunch party featuring boutique breakfast foods, baked goods, coffee, mimosas, live music, and a communal spirit."

News Brief: Curbside Cookoff, Arrest in 8/21 Shooting, Debate Watching, Pop Up Kolaches

Curbside Cookoff is this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at NoMa Junction @ Storey Park (1005 First St. NE). It promises family friendly fun with live music, local artisans, games, drinks, and a chance for area food trucks to show off their wares. Entry Tickets  (available online, or at the event) are free, or you can buy a general admission pass for $39 for one person (four food tasting tickets and one drink ticket), or $55 for two people (eight food tasting tickets and two drink tickets). This year's non-profit partner is No Kid Hungry.

Man Shot in the Leg in the 1900 Block of M Street

 A man was shot in the leg last night in the Carver-Langston neighborhood. What appears below is from an email sent to a local email list by Fifth District Lieutenant Carlos T. Heraud.

On Tuesday, October 11, 2016, at approximately 9:30pm, Fifth District units responded to several calls for sounds of gunshots in the 1900 block of M Street NE.  Upon arriving on the scene, officers located the victim who was suffering from gunshot wounds to the leg.  The victim was transported to the hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries. 

 The only lookout is for a male on the south sidewalk of the 1900 block of M Street NE.

Man Injured in Stabbing During Robbery in the 1100 Block of I Street

 

A man was stabbed last night in the 1100 block of I Street during a robbery. The victim sustained non-life threatening injuries. An MPD representative sent an email providing more details, and that appears below. I've also included the DC Alert, which contains additional suspect information.

On October 11, 2016, at approximately 10:30 pm First District officers responded to the 1100 block of I Street, Northeast, in reference to a robbery.  Upon arrival, the complainant reports that he was approached by a suspect who asked him for the time.  Believing he was about to be robbed, the complainant began running eastbound in the block.  The suspect chased after the complainant and stabbed him once in the back.  Taken from the complainant were an iphone, wallet, and keys.  The complainant was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.  The suspect was last seen fleeing eastbound on I Street, Northeast.  The suspect is described as a black male, 30-35 years old, 5’8, short hair, wearing a blue and gray hooded jacket, and jeans.  

Local News Brief: Maketto & Bidwell Get Michelin Nod, Crummell's Future, & Big Plans on Florida Ave

Food blog Whiskey and Soba has an enjoyable write-up of Maketto (1351 H St.). Maketto, along with Bidwell (Union Market, 1309 Fifth St.), was one of 19 restaurants that made Michelin's Bib Gourmand list. That's basically Michelin's version of cheap eats, very good, yet still affordable food. These are the kind of place that Michelin's critics might eat when dining off the clock. You are supposed to be able to enjoy "two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less," before tax and tip.

Stabbing Last Night in the 1500 block of Benning Road

There was a stabbing last night around 7 p.m. in the 1500 block of Benning Road. The alert did not provide a look out. Event # I20160619966.

Local News Brief: American Field Pop Up, a Possible Russian Invasion, & Pumpkinpalooza in NoMa

American Field is a two day pop-up market headed to Union Market's Dock 5 space (1309 Fifth St.) Oct. 15 and 16 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days). Vendors at the market will sell American made clothing, accessories, goods, and furniture. It sounds like many of the makers will be in attendance. This event is free.

ABRA Matters of Interest

RedRocks on H Street

The Alcoholic Beverage Control Board approved a request from the licensee to place Touché's (1123 H St.) license in safekeeping through the end of March of 2017, which means the business can continue to operate, but they cannot serve alcohol. As of of yesterday afternoon they were promoting an event for this Sunday called Cranktoberfest that is to feature a live performance by the popular go-go band Rare Essence.

Local News Brief: Trinidad Neighborhood Clean Up & a Burger Pop Up

Join the Trinidad Neighborhood Association for a community clean-up Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. Meet at the Joe Cole Rec Center (1299 Neal St.). Bags will be provided, but please bring your own gloves. The organizers stress that how much of the neighborhood they can cover, and which areas get priority, is dependent on who shows up to volunteer.

Shooting Tuesday Night in 1700 block of West Virginia Ave

According to an email sent to a local Yahoo group, MPD officers responding to a call for a shooting arrived in the 1700 block of West Virginia Ave. around 11:30 pm Tuesday night. They discovered a wounded victim, who was transported to the hospital. According to a Washington Post story, that victim was found in the street, and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The article further states that police said the victim was listed in critical, but stable condition.

Local News Brief: ANC 5D Mtg 10/11 & Union Terminal Market Historic District Efforts

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 5D will hold their monthly meeting Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. at MPD's 5th District station (1805 Bladensburg Road).

Do You Know this Dog? Gray Male Terrier Mix

Neighbors found a small gray male terrier mix at 14th & F Street today. He was not wearing a collar, but is very sweet and friendly. The people who found him visited Atlas Vet, and discovered that he does have a chip, but it's not registered. If this is your dog please call the animal shelter at 202-576-6664.

Maryland Blue Crab Feast at Little Miss Whiskey's

Little Miss Whiskey's (1104 H St.) will host a Maryland Blue Crab Feast with Founders Brewing on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 3 p.m. Chef Ryan Gordon of The Queen Vic (1206 H St.) will cook up the crabs and sides. Here's what's on the menu: large MD Blue Crabs, pork belly potato salad, corn, sausage, jalapeño cheesy grits, & more. This event is all you can eat, and all you can drink from the kegs provided.

1 keg Founders Breakfast Stout
1 keg Founders PC Pils
1 keg Founders All Day IPA
Tickets are $60 (that includes the $5 service charge).

News Brief: Fundraiser for Queen Vic Bartender, News & Brews, & a Sandwich Pop Up

Folks are raising money to help cover some medical bills for the family of Queen Vic (1206 H St.) bartender Joe Schinosi. So far the group is 23% per to their goal of $25,000. You can read more about Joe, his family, and the medical costs on the Generosity.com (part of INDIEGOGO) support page.