BARRY FARM (RE)MIXED

And It's a Wrap....

2011-03-15T00:24:00.001Z

Well, it's been one week since I packed up a 22' moving truck and drove off into the sunset with all my belongings.

When I embarked on this blogging venture, I thought I'd actually stick it out and watch my neighborhood transform. I thought I'd be like my first D.C. landlord who told stories of how Logan Circle used to be the red light district---except in my case, I would be the one saying, "I remember when, Barry Farm used to be..."

Ah, but such is life. After six solid years, it wasn't the neighborhood that got me, it was my condo association. The drama day in and day out of which utility bill to pay and which court order to ignore, because people weren't paying their condo fees, was just too much for someone who actually pays their bills on time, in full, each and every month. Not having heat during some of the coldest days this past winter, made coming home after a long days work, so physically/mentally challenging that something had to give. And after nearly running my savings dry trying to help pay said delinquent bills because my neighbors couldn't be bothered, I realized, I had bought into what some might call a "money pit" and that it was time to move off the property.

The decision to leave did not come lightly, but the reality was--my home was no longer my sanctuary and I dreaded being there. So I waved my little white flag, admitting defeat and packed up.

And with that said, I've decided to make an early exit from the blogging scene. I wish everyone the best--not only the other River East bloggers, but to the residents--the ones I left behind. I'll always hold a special place in my heart for those of you that made me feel welcome these past six years. Keep up the good work and if you find yourself on the other side, in NE DC--come say hi--as this is where I'm hanging my hat (for now at least).

US Coast Guard Headquarters Update

2010-10-22T14:48:00.002+01:00

As you can see from the aerial shot taken August, 29, 2010 the U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters Building on the St. Elizabeths West Campus is well under way. The project is in the first stage of the Department of Homeland Security’s consolidation and when complete in the first quarter in 2013, the building will feature an 11-story office building providing about a 1.2 million square feet facility for 3,860 employees, a separate central utility plant, and two seven-story parking garages.

In the month of August, it was reported that one million cubic yards of dirt had been moved from the site. Now that's alot of dirt! The project represents a new record for Clark (in dirt hauling that is). Previously, the biggest excavation completed by Clark was at the Walter E Washington Convention Center project. That hole required moving 1.3 million cubic yards of dirt; upon completion, the U.S. Coast Guard's will have moved more than 1.6 million. Trucks have been hauling dirt an average of 16 to 20 hours a day except on Sundays. Also noted, many of the trucking companies used to haul the dirt, were located in Ward 8--so woohoo for supporting the local economy.

The photos provided below reflect progress during the month of September. If you're interested, a number of construction contracts were awarded last month, so be sure to follow at GSA's St. Elizabeth's website.

Groundbreaking: Matthews Memorial

2010-10-06T20:02:00.001+01:00

Well it looks like Matthews Memorial Terrace is finally ready to gear up. Friday, October 8th, at 9:30am is the ground breaking.

PGN Architects is working with Bozzuto Construction to build this 5 story, 130,000 square foot building consisting of 99 one-, two-, and three bedroom apartments. The project is slated to deliver July 2011.

"There Goes the Neighborhood"

2010-09-30T03:44:00.000+01:00

Reposting this video, after spotting it on And Now, Anacostia. Definately a must see, for us Barry Farm folk. Especially with the part noting that the city will begin tearing down the Barry Farm Dwellings next year...

Yes, There's Less Traffic. But Isn't It Illegal?

2010-09-22T14:01:00.002+01:00

On my way into the office this morning, at the intersection of 13th and U St SE, four police officers on motocycles drive past me, hop the curb and begin driving down the sidewalk. I find this to be a bit surprising, since this particular stretch of sidewalk isn't overly wide and a little further down, there is a bus stop in between the street and the building at the corner. The bus stop is typically quite busy in the morning with children and adults, and I just can't imagine that driving down the sidewalk is appropriate for these officers (especially four cycles deep). But perhaps they were responding to the scene of a disturbance?

Well, actually no. The officers were merely exercising their right to do whatever the hell they wanted to. After I crossed Good Hope and began to merge onto the 11th Street Bridge, I noticed that the same police officers were about 10 cars ahead of me, on the overpass. Any emergency in sight? Ugh, nope, sorry--just sheer impatience on their part. Way to set a good example, MPD.

* sorry to have not included a picture of the actual event, but I thought driving and taking pictures (w/ my phone), was probably illegal too...

"Jim Graham for Ward 8"

2010-09-20T14:11:00.002+01:00

I was reading a conversation with Jack Evans on DCist this morning and began to wonder, what if the District could no longer get federal dollars unless they replaced their current council members with a new leader, er, by playing musical chairs (politics style)?

For example, while acknowledging and citing each Council Member’s stronghold, we maneuver him/her to a Ward that is “struggling” in that area. Each Council Member would be required to serve their new neighborhood (no, ifs, ands, or buts) just as strong (if not better) than they do their current Ward.

Take for instance, Jim Graham. If you go to his website, he boasts that Ward One is the most diverse ward in the District of Columbia. Now, I’m not endorsing "Jim Graham for Ward 8”, but I would like to look at his achievements in Ward One and see how they would apply to Ward 8. We could do this, with any number of the council members (Mary Cheh, Jack Evans, Tommy Wells, Kwame Brown, etc). I just happened to pick, Jim.

One achievement Graham cites under public safety is that he worked with neighbors and the ANC to block the opening of an offender halfway house in Adams Morgan across the street from an elementary school. He also ensured that Ward One supported its “fair share” of convicted felon halfway houses’ beds by reducing their number from 62 to 13 (emphasis mine). Graham also led the initial effort to focus public attention on slum property conditions, which resulted in the creation of the “hot property” list and consequent criminal prosecution against slumlords. And last but not least, Graham successfully pressured the DC Housing Authority to improve the pace of rehabilitation of boarded-up properties.

Just looking at that list alone, Ward 8 might see an interesting, if not impressive transformation if Graham were our leader.

So, I challenge my readers to select a new leader for your Ward.** What do you think your new Council Member would bring to the table, that your current leader does not? Do you have a thought as to how any of these Council Members would perform under different pressures, then the ones they face in their current wards? And going back to my analogy above, would Graham survive Ward 8--could he turn our struggling ward around? Answer in the comments below.

**Rules being: you cannot elect your current leader and you have to pick from the currently elected members of the Council: David Catania, Harry Thomas, Jr., Jack Evans, Jim Graham, Kwame Brown, Marion Barry, Mary Cheh, Muriel Bowser, Phil Mendelson, Tommy Wells, Vincent Gray, Yvette Alexander, Michael A. Brown.

Sheridan Station Webcam

2010-09-10T17:41:00.000+01:00

WCS Construction, oh how I love thee. First you post progress photos of construction to your website, and now you have a live webcam?!

I'm telling you, this is too cool. Sheridan Station 24/7! (yes, I'm a construction geek).

Yes! Organic Market Opens Wednesday

2010-08-31T02:34:00.000+01:00

Check out this awesome post by And Now, Anacostia.

I am super stoked about the grand opening Wednesday, especially since I started actually using ground flax seeds in my diet. (Don't judge...I'm on a whole other level over here.)

In Construction: Sheridan Station

2010-08-17T23:08:00.000+01:00

Just under a year ago, I did a story on Sheridan Terrace (soon to be known as Sheridan Station). The Sheridan public housing site (pictured below), was demolished in 1997. In 2005 DCHA selected William C. Smith & Co. as the lead developer for Sheridan Terrace and in 2008 a $20 million HOPE VI grant was received.

While groundbreaking for this project was originally annouced May 2010, it wasn't until Summer of 2010 that we started to see some real action. July 2010, we started to see this:

And in August 2010, we saw the crane go up:

This project is slated to be complete Summer 2011, so stay tuned for more pictures as Phase I progresses.

Good Hope: Anacostia

2010-08-17T22:20:00.000+01:00

Thanks to DCist for posting this:
"Chris Keener, in association with the DC Commission on Arts and Humanities and five teenagers participating in the Summer Youth Employment Program, produced the above short film -- a wonderfully optimistic piece about one of the most historic neighborhoods in the District, Anacostia. We enjoyed it immensely, and figured you might too."

D.ish

2010-06-11T14:11:00.000+01:00

From Gabe Klein, Director of DDOT: "Communication with our constituents and stakeholders is job #1. We have been working hard to create a more transparent DDOT and a customer-centric agency and this new blog is the latest of many outreach components we are excited to launch.. . . . We look forward to building a more direct connection to the people that we serve, and finding additional ways to facilitate 2-way communication with you."

And there you have it folks, the launch of d.ish

Underhanded Dealings Continue

2010-05-20T02:45:00.000+01:00

As the economy continues to tank and the mortgage/foreclosure crisis continues to rear it's ugly head, an interesting thing has started to occur in my condo association: lenders are selling homes prior to actually foreclosing and taking title.

For example, John Smith* owns #34 in my building. He received a notice from Fannie Mae, that they had started foreclosure proceedings, so Mr. Smith packs up and moves out. The association hasn't seen condo payments in months, so we are eager for Fannie Mae to take possession and pay at least the required 6 months of back fees. However, instead of finalizing the foreclosure proceedings, Fannie Mae does not transfer the title from Mr. Smith's name, to theirs. The reason behind the delay is so they don't have to pay the back or current condo fees while trying to sell the unit. Unfortunately, now the mortgage companies are playing even more games. They are starting the foreclosure process, marketing the homes for sale, and subsequently selling them, prior to completing the foreclosure. Thus forcing the property into weird real estate limbo.

So in the case of Mr. Smith's property, Mr. Johnson* comes along and offers Fannie Mae a cash deal. He's an investor and sees a $150,000 property being sold for $35,000--what a steal. He gives Fannie Mae cash and is told by the title company that he'll receive his deed, etc in 90 days. Except 90 days comes and goes. The title company stops returning his phone calls and Fannie Mae wants nothing to do with the buyer. Mr. Johnson calls the city and inquires about the hold up, and the recorder says that Fannie Mae doesn't own the unit, Mr. Smith (the original owner) still owns the unit....

About another month goes by and the city finally records the sale of the unit. But which sale do they record? The sale of the condo between Mr. Smith and Fannie Mae. Mr. Johnson is still high and dry.

Upon hearing Mr. Johnson's tale, I honestly have to say, that I thought this was some random fluke. But unfortunately it's not. Not only does Mr. Johnson have his HUD-1, but just this afternoon, I received an email from another homeowner in my association, Mr. Thomas* who is reporting of the same underhanded dealings. Apparently the mortgage company that "owned" the unit that he bought (another cash deal) also did not actually have title.

I know for a fact that there are at least 7 or 8 other "bank foreclosures" in our association. And now I wonder if they are all being played the same way. While it's extremely unfair to the buyers, what happens to the Association and the money owed to us? In many cases we are owed thousands of dollars in back condo fees, and if the mortgage companies, the title companies and the management companies are in on the deals, then who is going to ensure the Association gets the money that is rightfully owed?

According to Mr. Johnson? The US Attorney's office. Apparently, what is happening to the above mentioned homeowners is happening to homeowners across the region, and an official investigation has now begun. I guess only time will tell, what will happen next...

*names and addresses have been changed

Barry Farm: Past & Present Documentary at HSW

2010-05-17T23:34:00.001+01:00

Ray's the Steaks: East River

2010-04-29T01:04:00.000+01:00

I've read two reviews at this point of Ray's the Steaks: East River, one from CityPaper and the other from Capital Spice, a DC food blog. I've found both reviews to be on point, so I've decided that I will venture out and give the restaurant a try this weekend. Anyone else been yet? If so, share your thoughts in the comments.

Ray's The Steaks at East River
3905 Dix St. NE
One block south of the corner of Minnesota Avenue and Benning Road NE
202-396-8297

Sheridan Station Update!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-27T04:04:00.001+01:00

This just in....Sheridan Station groundbreaking, Monday, May 10th at 10am!...more details to follow....

Anacostia Art Walk

2010-04-21T14:37:00.000+01:00

Be sure to check out this write-up of the Anacostia Art Walk, from WORN Magazine. The pictures show a different side to our adjacent River East neighborhood that the rest of DC doesn't get to see very often.

Breakin for Birney 11

2010-04-21T05:11:00.001+01:00

If you aren't familiar with FLY (Facilitating Leadership in Youth) then you need to get with the program. Better yet, come check out their event this Saturday at American University!

Breakin' for Birney, the longest-running b-boy/b-girl jam in DC, is having its 11th anniversary this month. For the last 11 years hundreds of breakdancers, youth, and loads of other folks have descended on American University to see ridiculously-talented b-boys/b-girls rip up the dance floor.

Free for youth with a DCPS ID, otherwise $5 cover. All ages attend - great family event!

Music by DJ Skeme Richards of the Rock Steady Crew. Sponsored by Facilitating Leadership in Youth (FLY).

100% of the proceeds will benefit FLY (Facilitating Leadership in Youth), a youth leadership and development organization that works with young people from the Barry Farm neighborhood.
Check out past events on You Tube (key word: Breakin' for Birney)...

FLY is a community-based, youth-driven, nonprofit that takes a comprehensive, long-term youth development approach that consistently engages youth in year-round programming for 6-10 years. Beginning in elementary school, FLY youth gain access to educational, artistic, and leadership opportunities that develop their talents and nourish their dreams. Students are matched with volunteer mentors who empower them to be leaders and advocates.

What a fantastic program, and better yet, 93% of FLY's high school seniors are accepted into college....how fantastic is that?

So come out and support a great program for a great cause. See you Saturday!

D.C. Students Win Gates Scholarship

2010-04-20T13:41:00.000+01:00

A big congrats to Mary Amaechi (Banneker), Jose Gutierrez (St. Aslem's Abbey School), Elzabad Kennedy (McKinley Tech), Jasmina Rivas (School Without Walls), Erwin Sweetwine (Banneker), Jovalee Thompson (Banneker), and Isaiah West (Ballou Senior High) who were selected to be receipients of the Gates Millenium Scholarship last week.

Each year, 1,000 low-income, minority students nationwide are awarded the scholarship. The scholarship program was established in 1999 and is funded with a $1.6 billion grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The goal is to send 20,000 low-income, minority students to college over two decades. The scholarship covers any academic costs not covered by university financial aid or federal grants and can be extended to graduate school if students study education, engineering, library science, mathematics, public health or the sciences. The program also matches students with mentors, gives them leadership training and encourages them to perform community service. The awarded students have no loan burden, they don't have to work. All they have to do is go to class and work on being a great student.

Jazz N Soul Cafe

2010-04-15T00:26:00.001+01:00

Awhile ago I reported on the Winter 2010 opening of the Jazz N Soul Cafe in Historic Anacostia (2020 Shannon Place SE). Today, Eric Whitehead, the owner of the establishment sent out an email explaining a much longer, more indefinate deferred opening. An excerpt of that email is included below:

To all of our Music Lovers, friends and family:
It has been a very long time since I sent out any information on The JazzNSoul Cafe. For this I apologize. I receive emails and calls almost daily asking if we are open. I simply say, NOT YET. My dream, my vision, has not been crushed, just deferred. The truth is, I believed that there were available funds in place to make this deal happen and they simply were not there. I am still, to this day, working on making The JazzNSoul Cafe a reality and bringing it to the great people of Anacostia, who sincerely deserve this type of venue. So stay tuned and stay positive. I am!!

I plan on following up with Four Points to determine if they plan on holding out and assisting Mr. Whitehead to make this happen, or if they have other plans for the building and will update you all accordingly. Stay tuned...

Let Me In

2010-04-13T15:13:00.001+01:00

Last night while finishing up a meeting, one of my neighbors knocked on my door.

“Got an old credit card you don’t need anymore?” Grinning from ear to ear, my neighbor explained he had locked himself out of his house.

Two expired gift cards later, my neighbor returns with no success. I volunteer to ask another neighbor (our resident handy man) if he has any tools that would allow my neighbor to break into his own unit, while my meeting mate and the unlucky locked out homeowner retreat to the utility room in search of a ladder. Upon returning to my home, to look up a locksmith’s number, as our mission is turning out to be a complete and utter failure, I’m greeted with a locked door to my own unit. Thinking it’s a joke, I knock to gain entry….only to discover, no one is actually inside. It turns out, one my neighbors has a nasty habit of locking bottom locks when entering or leaving homes, whether in his own home or not. Upon leaving my home to retrieve the ladder, he had locked me out of my apartment—as my keys sat on the table next to the door…inside the unit.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!” I yell.

Barefoot, inadequately dressed for the cool weather, cell phone free, and extremely frustrated I sit on the stairs outside my unit waiting patiently for my male counterparts to return with the ladder. Our resident handy man appears with a couple tools and starts to chuckle as he sees my unhappy and quite pouty face. He lays his tools outside of my door, and comments, that it looks to be a long night.

After about 15 minutes of unsuccessful jimmying of the lock, my neighbor exclaims that I must have locks of steel, because the door isn’t opening.

“Figures as much. The guy I bought the place from, was a locksmith. I had him replace the locks after closing, and I clearly got what I paid for.”

Listenting to elevator music, while on hold with the 23/7 locksmith, I remember that the side of the building sits on a grade that is higher than the other three sides, and might put my window within reach of the ladder (as my other neighbor is one floor above me and the ladder had proven to be a mere joke when it came to reaching his window). Reluctantly, the neighbor who had locked me out of my unit, trudged through the poison ivy to see if he could extend the ladder to my window. It was a bit of a stretch, but was worth the chance, as I was not looking forward to forking out several hundred dollars to have my lock drilled out and subsequently replaced at 11pm. Talk about some nice after hours surcharges.

I watched from the parking lot as the tallest of my three neighbors climbed each rung of the ladder, struggled with the window and then managed to hoist himself up.

Silently I chuckled, as I wished I had my camera. The mission had proven to be a success, but it was quite amusing to see my neighbor maneuvering head first through my tiny window, with legs dangling in thin air at a quarter til midnight. What a sight it must have been for our neighbors next door and the police man stationed on the corner.

New Naval Support Facility

2010-04-08T13:46:00.001+01:00

The Washington Business Journal reported earlier this week that the "National Capital Planning Committee commented favorably March 31 on plans for a 160,000 square foot office building and 23,000 square foot warehouse for the Navy".

Under the Base Realignment and Closure Act of 2005, The Naval Support Facility Anacostia and Bolling Air Force Base will join forces to become Joint Base Anacostia Bolling. Some 816 workers will shift from rented space in Arlington to the new facility on government-owned land near St. Elizabeths.

According to the proposal submitted to NCPC, the LEED Silver, 5-floor administrative building is 75 feet in height with an 18-foot penthouse, for a total building height of 93 feet. The floor plate for the administration building is approximately 32,000 square feet. There is also a green roof proposed covering approximately 50 percent of the roof.

This building is designated as a sensitive compartmentalized information facility (SCIF), and as such will not include any windows, except at the ground floor entrance.

Also included as part of this project is a 23,000 square foot, one-story warehouse, 23 feet in height. The warehouse is north of and adjacent to the main administrative building. The warehouse will mainly be used for storing files and includes three loading docks on the west side. The administrative building will be a steel structure and clad in brick and concrete masonry units (CMUs).

The NCPC sought to ensure that the views to and from St. Elizabeth's campus were not adversely impacted by the new Naval Support Facility. As part of their proposal, the Navy submitted views from the St. Elizabeths campus looking towards the NSMA building. The images provided both identifies the location of the NSMA building and the U.S. Coast Guard Headquarters (USCG) as each relates to the other from different vantage points.

The image below shows the main view from the US Coast Guard facility (looking toward the Air Force Base).

The image below shows the NW view from the US Coast Guard facility with the new Navy facility digitally added to the background. (note the construction for the US Coast Guard headquarters happening in the foreground).

South Capitol Street Bridge Closed

2010-04-08T01:37:00.001+01:00

Thursday morning from 10-12, the South Capitol Street Bridge will be closed for a "water vessel" to pass through. I'm gonna go out on a limb here and assume that a ship is going to be passing through. I just wish I didn't have to work, so I could grab a couple pictures from the park....

And We Have Ourselves A Ferry

2010-04-06T12:44:00.000+01:00

Well, almost.

American River Taxi (A.R.T) will launch the first eco-friendly water taxi on the Potomac River in the Metro DC area in 2010 Q2. After extensive research and development, A.R.T, Partnered with an eco-friendly shipbuilder and local partners will provide a reliable, convenient and affordable water transportation solution with connections to mass transit.

Addressing the main concerns of area residents, A.R.T’s design is a transportation system to help alleviate the increasing delays caused by overcrowded highways and address an appropriate level of sensitivity into the environmental impact of a river transportation system. It is through partnerships with other green companies in manufacturing, propulsion and mass transit connections that the vision of a new Potomac (and Anacostia) River(s) becomes closer to reality. This will allow commuters and tourists alike to see more of the city in an enchanting way without the stress of traffic and pollution.

A.R.T. plans to initially serve Georgetown, the Southwest Waterfront, Nationals Stadium, Alexandria and National Harbor with a fleet of 2 boats, with plans to grow to 8 boats and serve additional destinations such as Poplar Point and National Airport within a few years.

For more information please contact Shaun Guevarra, Director of Capital River Services, LLC at 202-415-4463. Visit American River Taxi to keep posted on the latest developments.

Nerd Alert: 11th Street Bridge Update

2010-04-03T14:40:00.002+01:00

Thanks to DDOT for posting these great aerial pics of 11th street bridge progress. You can see the piles crews have already driven deep into the Anacostia River bed. There will be 63 piles in all to support the 3 new bridge spans. Also, an estimated 21,000 cubic yards of concrete and about 16.5 million pounds of steel are to be used to construct the new bridges and connecting ramps. (Click on the pic for a larger image).

And check out this write-up from the CityPaper.

Responsible Roger or Irritated Iris?

2010-03-28T15:21:00.004+01:00

Well I thought I was "Responsible Roger", but after digging further, it looks like, I'm just "Irritated Iris". Why? Well, even though this new iniative by Obama is supposed to help underwater homeowners before they get into serious issues, it's not meant to help everyone. I'm perfectly ok, hearing the administration say that the program won't help investors, people that are underwater on vacation homes, or people living in million dollar homes. But it appears it's not meant to help Responsible Roger either. Basically, if you can't prove hardship (such as unemployment), you're still out of luck, no matter how underwater you are.

Requirements vary... by individual situation and program, but generally include the following:
•Home must be owner occupied. No investor-owned or vacant property.
•Loan balance must be below $729,750.
•Loan must have been originated before Jan. 1, 2009.
•Borrower must owe more than 115 percent of what home is worth for principal writedown.
•For FHA program, homeowners must be current on their payments.
•Previous eligibility requirements for the Home Affordable Modification Program, such as proof of hardship, also apply.

Unemployed or Underwater? Relief Is In Sight

2010-03-26T01:43:00.000Z

WaPo states that the Obama administration plans to overhaul how it's tackling the foreclosure crisis, in part by requiring lenders to temporarily slash or eliminate monthly mortgage payments for many borrowers who are unemployed.

The White House is scheduled to announce their new intiative Friday. I am oh so excited to see that Obama is also taking note that many borrowers owe more on their mortgages than their properties are worth. And that his administration is also "encouraging lenders to cut the loan balances of millions of these distressed homeowners and possibly refinance into loans backed by the Federal Housing Administration."

I, unfortunately, am one of those homeowners who is underwater on their mortgage. I pay my monthly bill with no problem, but who knows how long it will be until the market recovers and I can sell my home for enough to at least pay my mortgage back. I'm not planning on selling anytime soon, but, if banks and other lenders are being asked to reduce the principal owed on a loan, and the reduced amount is forgiven as long as the homeowner remains current on the loan for three years, then I want to know where I can sign up?

11th Street Bridge Update

2010-03-25T13:11:00.002Z

DDOT began construction of 11th Street Bridge Project in December 2009 to replace the two existing bridges with three new bridges and improve the related interchanges. When completed in mid-2013, the project will:

-improve mobility by providing separate freeway and local traffic connections to both directions of DC 295, the Southeast-Southwest Freeway and local streets on both sides of the Anacostia River.

-provide a shared path for pedestrians and bicycles, as well as rails to allow future streetcar connections

-replace the existing functionally deficient and structurally obsolete bridges

-provide an additional alternate evacuation route from our Nation’s Capital.

-include new trail connections, improved drainage and other environmental investments.

The original contract value was $260,000,000.000 and with executed change orders has now increased to $260,904,000.00.

You can see the progress in the pictures shown below. According to the 3/19 progress report, the following potential changes are being considered:

Relocation of Ramp C-3. This potential change is being pursued to relocate the proposed Ramp C-3 closer to SB I-295 to lessen the footprint of the overall interchange and eliminate a bridge structure over Good Hope. The Contractor anticipates design completion of the ramp in early April.

Leave in place existing 11th Street inbound bridge. This potential change is being pursued to allow the District more time to evaluate different options for enhanced multi-modal transportation and urban green space.

Widening of Bridge S-6. This potential change calls for the widening of bridge S-6 over DC-295/I-295 and the CSX Railroad by increasing the bridge sidewalk from 6 feet to 14 ft. This will accommodate a shared use path from O St, SE to the intersection of 11th Street to Martin Luther King Blvd.

ACBA Buildout. The Anacostia Community Boathouse Association must be relocated in order to provide space for the proposed new 11th Street bridges. This potential change was planned during procurement; however, the scope had not been fully defined. The work being pursued under this potential change is for the construction of the temporary facilities and docks.

Removal of 11th Street Ramp and Sidewalk to Good Hope Rd. This potential change eliminated the proposed access ramp from 11th Street to Good Hope. Once Popular Point is realized, this ramp will be installed as part of the Poplar Point Project.

(Bridge S-3, Pier 1 setup for pile driving)

(Bridge S6, Abutment B, support of excavation)

(new ACBA site)

(artists rendering of bridge completion in 2013)

Moving On Up

2010-03-24T20:24:00.001Z

Ok, don't get it twisted...I'm not moving out of Barry Farm, but I do believe the greater community is "moving on up..." (amenties-wise).

And Now, Anacostia did a post this afternoon about a new establishment in River East. Uniontown Bar & Grill will be opening summer 2010 at 2200 MLK Ave Se. All I can say, is here's to finally being able to grab a cold one after work.

What We're Worth

2010-03-17T17:30:00.000Z

Love this post on "Mythbusting: The 2010 Census" by weloveDC. They caught up with Maurice Henderson, the director of DC Counts, to help bust Census-related myths and why the Census is important. It's not just about representation folks. It provides statistical information for programs and projects. The federal government hands out large quantities of cash based on the census data. The Brookings Instituation broke down the data for fiscal year 2008, and DC's share was $2.7 billion – or $4,656 per resident, per year. That’s a lot of money.

Another reason to care? Private businesses use census data for marketing and business expansion. If you want another coffee shop or some other type of business in the neighborhood, those businesses need to know where potential customers live.

So fill out your census already! And if you haven't gotten it yet, don't despair, it's coming!

Other ways to get involved:
Participate in the “Portraits of DC” photo contest.

Interact with the DC Counts campaign via social media – find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/DC_Counts or check out census.dc.gov.

Attend the National Census Day rally, hosted by Congresswoman Norton, at Freedom Plaza on April 1st. More details coming on that soon.

Keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities for census outreach, particularly on April 10th! The U.S. Census Bureau is planning to hold a final canvassing push called “March to the Mailbox” on that day. This will be potentially hundreds of people heading out in various neighborhoods in the District based on the rolling response rates to more strongly encourage their family, friends and neighbors that may not have filled out the form to do so. More details will be forthcoming soon.

For census jobs, you can call 1-866-861-2010, or visit the Census jobs site.

Ray's: The Steaks at East River

2010-03-17T13:39:00.000Z

It was reported by WaPo that the new Ray's: The Steaks at East River was supposed to open March 1. But, I gave them a call last night and discovered that they now plan to open in April. If you're interested in applying for a job at the new location, call Ray's the Steaks: Arlington at 703-841-7297.

The new Ray's in Northeast, will have a variety of new dishes, including cold-smoked fried chicken and smoked and roasted prime rib. Also, please note...an outdoor patio, definately a sure fire hit come spring time.

The restaurant will be open Sunday through Saturday 8am-12am.

Ray's: The Steaks at East River
3905 Dix Street NE
Washington, DC 20019

Urban Oasis

2010-03-16T01:05:00.013Z

I got an email recently from someone wanting to organize a volunteer day this coming August at the 'Urban Oasis'. Apparently back in the late 90s there had been a volunteer extravaganza on St. Elizabeth's Campus at a community garden created for the Barry Farm community...

I'd love to help organize a volunteer day for 2010, except I had no idea there was a community garden on St. E's campus dedicated to Barry Farm. According to the Cultural Landscape Report released as part of DHS's masterplan package, in 2002 there was record of a community garden program near the greenhouses of 'unit 3' (pictured below). Produce from the garden crops was sold at the Fresh Vegetable Market at the Josephene Butler Parks Center. However, according to this report, the garden is no longer in existence. Can anyone confirm? I'm assuming DHS squashed the garden, if it still existed, but regardless, inquiring minds want to know.

Update: Apparently, the community garden on St. Elizabeth's campus does indeed still exist and volunteers interested in working there should contact DPR Environmental Education Specialist Kelly Melsted. I'm shooting her an email now to see what's up.

As an fyi, there is a Barry Farm Community Garden, with 5 shallow vegetable beds over by the rec center at 1230 Sumner Rd SE. That garden was planted in June 2009 as part of DPR's Beautification Day and is looking to be adopted by local community members in the Barry Farm area in 2010. Anyone interested?

The Bag Tax

2010-03-11T00:20:00.002Z

WaPo did a story on the recently enacted bag tax at the end of January. It appears that people are for the most part adapting. The bag pictured above is an image of one of the bags I bought at the Container Store for my shopping purposes. I have 3, they were $3.99 a piece and are amazing. (17-3/4" x 7-3/4" x 17-3/4" h, durable, water-resistant, zipper closure, square bottom--like a paper bag, hold a lot of freakn groceries).

But I digress, as much as I support the bag tax, lately, I haven't been the happiest camper since several businesses have automatically been charging me 5 cents, whether I get a bag or not.

Case in point...

This weekend, I went to Subway and even after already mentioning that I didn't need a bag for the sandwich, watched the clerk give me a bag and automatically charge me for the bag. I removed the sandwich from the bag and gave the clerk my money, minus 5 cents. He sighed heavily and complained about having to re-do the sale, but come on...I told you I didn't want the stupid bag.

Today at lunch, same thing at Corner Bakery. I said no bag, and once again, the clerk charges me anyway...except this time, doesn't give me the bag. I guess I have to laugh, she heard me say I didn't want the bag, but it makes me wonder, was she so used to charging people that she did it anyway, or are the cashier systems rigged to automatically charge customers for the bag?

Your experiences/comments appreciated.

11th Street Bridge Update

2010-03-10T19:18:00.000Z

Nerd alert....I've been watching this construction since it started, but have been slack about posting pictures. Pile driving equipment was mobilized end of December beginning of January, with pile driving beginning end of January. Since the beginning of March, they've also been clearing and grubbing the south section along I-295 for Ramp B.

Apparently, design and construction are on schedule with respect to crticial path activities.

Need A Job?

2010-03-08T13:42:00.000Z

Having been unemployed early last year and having many friends who are still unemployed, I thought it would be important to highlight a local job opportunity. The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting temporary, part-time census takers for the 2010 Census. These short-term jobs offer good pay ($20/hr starting pay in the District), flexible hours, paid training, and reimbursement for authorized work-related expenses, such as mileage incurred while conducting census work. Best of all, census takers work right in their own communities.

The 2010 Census offers excellent opportunities for:
Full-Time Workers
Retirees
Job Seekers
Students and Grads
Community Leaders

Most hiring will take place during the spring of 2010 (right about now). Application forms are available online. You will need to print the form and bring proper identification to your scheduled testing session. Do not mail your form, all applications must be submitted in person, on the day of your employment test.

There are two Census Offices in D.C. If you are 18 years or older, call today to schedule an appt:

DC East
Eastern Avenue N.W.
Washington, DC 20012
301-244-1060

DC West
25th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
202-507-4560

2010-03-06T15:56:00.000Z

CALL TO PHOTOGRAPHERS!

Portraits of DC: A Photo Competition

The DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, FotoWeek DC, and DC Counts Campaign; are partnering to issue all DC artists, at all skill levels, a challenge: to capture the diverse beauty reflected in the faces of Washington residents. Like the census, we seek portraits representing people of all ages, races, and ethic groups in each quadrant of the city. Fifty-one portraits will be selected and exhibited at Social, a Columbia Heights Restaurant.

Entry Deadline: Tuesday, March 30, 2010, 7pm

Click here to view the Call to Artists and obtain an application

For more information, visit www.dcarts.dc.gov

or contact Zoma Wallace at zoma.wallace@dc.gov

Construction Update: Matthews Memorial

2010-03-02T22:34:00.006Z

The rendering above was one of the images, we were shown concerning the Matthews Memorial Terrace project. The building in the lower left hand corner is the Community Service Center of Hope, while the building on the right is "The Terrace", both of which will be located at 2632-2634 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE.

Recently, I did some digging to determine where the project stood and according to the rendering I obtained from the July 2009 progress set, the Community Service Center of Hope now looks like this:

From that same set, I've included the front elevation of the community center along MLK and the floor plans for terrace level, ground floor, and 1st floor.

The rendering that was released as part of the December 2, 2009 permit set for the Matthews Memorial Terrace project (the apartment component), looks like this:

The rendering above shows the 'side' of the building, with the rear of the Community Services building on your right. See the highlighted elevation marker on the site plan below to orient yourself (approximately), noting that MLK is the diagonal street running on the left hand side of the plan:

The actual elevation from the permit set, is above. And the front elevation of the building along MLK is below:

As briefly noted above, the project contains two buildings: a residential project, "Matthews Memorial Terrace" and a community services building, named "Community Service Center of Hope". The residential building occupies 80 feet of frontage along MLK and will be four stories along this front. There are 5 total levels of units located over a parking structure (52 spaces). The residential building will include a community room, a meeting room with kitchen facilities, and a terrace level courtyard that functions as a green roof over the parking structure. In addition to the main lobby along MLK, an additional main entrance will be located on the terrace level.

The residential building will provide 99 units of housing for three different target populations: seniors (62 and older), families qualifying for public housing (those relocated from the nearby Barry Farm public housing community), and other low income qualified families whose incomes are below 60% of the area median income. Approximately 1/3 of the residential units are programmed for each target population.

It appears that the project was rebid, so that one general contractor would be awarded the contract for both the Terrace (Residential Building) and the Community Center. It appears that bids were due January 20, 2010. Groundbreaking was supposed to have occurred February 2010, but I'm going to assume that because of the snow, this has been postponed until March--primarily because I haven't seen any activity....

Stay tuned for more details, as I get them.

Tonight: Marion Barry Addresses Ward 8

2010-03-02T18:47:00.006Z

Marion Barry's 2010 State of the Ward Address

Tuesday, March 2nd @ 6:30 pm

Matthews Memorial Church

2616 MLK Avenue SE

Everyone likes to remind me that Marion Barry won the last election by a 77 percent landslide. And like him or not, he is our Council member. Will he be re-elected in 2012? Well, as the Syndicate says, "until somebody, or a group of individuals, decides to MOB up and do something...Marion B is here. The sound of revolution is feet on the ground."

Except I don't hear a stampede, I hear a shuffle. The time to step up and out is now. Who is the next leader of Ward 8?

UPDATE: WaPo reports that the members of the Council have voted to censure Barry, strip him of his committee chairmanship, and refer him to the U.S. Attorney's office for possible criminal prosecution--I wonder what can we expect at tonight's meeting? Thoughts anyone? Mr. Barry?

Photo taken March 2nd, by Linda Davidson at the Washington Post

Summer Youth Employment

2010-03-02T12:41:00.001Z

Registration for the 2010 Summer Youth Employment Program Now Open

In order to participate, you must be:

-A District Resident

-Between the ages of 14-21

-Eligible to work in the United States

Anacostia Youth Build Solar Panels for Haiti

2010-03-01T23:58:00.001Z

WDC Solar and ARCH Training Center in Washington D.C. have collaborated their abilities in Solar Power and Skills Training to bring much needed solar power to Haiti by building 5 portable solar panel systems, or 'solar suitcases'. During the week of March 1st, these two organizations are producing solar suitcases that will travel to Haiti where they will be easily assembled to deliver immediate power to hospitals, orphanages and immediate care facilities.

WDC Solar and ARCH Training Center are partners in bringing the first Solar Manufacturing Plant to D.C. and are currently building in Ward 8, Anacostia where both organizations are headquartered. The actual facility is located at Shannon Place, SE DC. For more information, see the press release below.

WaPo Calls for Barry to Step Down

2010-02-25T16:41:00.002Z

In an editorial released this morning, the Washington Post states that the DC Council should "censure Barry, strip him of important committee assignments and refer the allegations to the U.S. attorney's office and the D.C. Office of Campaign Finance." But, a great, great point, that they also make is that "even if the council invokes the toughest sanctions available to it...it won't be enough to make up for what Mr. Barry's repeated misbehavior has cost the very people he professes to serve. It frankly is disgusting to hear Mr. Barry talk ... about the needs of his resource-poor community when his main agenda has been his own welfare. He seems not to recognize the connection between the deprivations of Ward 8 and his lack of effective leadership. If Mr. Barry were really sorry, he would realize it is time for him to make way for someone who can deliver."

Well said, WaPo.

In response to my post about whether Barry should be impeached (earlier this week), a commentor has stated that the community should be ashamed for suggesting such a thing, and that if we feel any action should be taken, our only recourse is a recall election. And as much as I hate to say it, the commentor is correct, but in my opinion, not for all the reasons he/she suggests. This is the District of Columbia, not the House of Representatives, and correct me if I'm wrong, but the good people of the District of Columbia do not have the power to impeach our elected officials. But if we did, should our local government do so? What responsibility does our local government have to protect the citizens of this city? Is it the same duty that the House/Senate has in terms of our President? Should our officials be charged with holding our leaders accountable regardless of who voted them into office and should they be able to remove elected officials from office?

To explain to those of you who don't know, a recall election is usually initiated by voters and can be based on "political charges", for example mismanagement, and is usually, but not always, based on an indictable offense.

However, impeachment is a formal process in which an elected official is accused of unlawful activity by a legislative body, and which may or may not lead to the removal of that official from office. Impeachment is only a legal statement of charges, parallel to an indictment in criminal law. An official who is impeached faces a second legislative vote (whether by the same body or another), which determines conviction, or failure to convict, on the charges embodied by the impeachment. Although the subject of the charge is criminal action, it does not constitute a criminal trial; the only question under consideration is the removal of the individual from office, and the possibility of a subsequent vote preventing the removed official from ever again holding political office in the jurisdiction where he was removed.

I think, we can all agree that what Barry has done is an indictable offense, and should be persued as such by both our community (via a recall) and our local government (via censure et. al). But if our local government had the right to impeach, should they?

In my opinion, since Barry's actions do not just affect Ward 8, but also the entire city--then the Ward 8 community, should not be the only entity that gets to decide Barry's fate. I believe the local government has a duty to uphold the law and hold Barry accountable as well, and if impeachment were an option, we should persue it.

Should Barry Be Impeached?

2010-02-22T22:19:00.000Z

Jonetta Rose Barras wrote an article for the Examiner today that called for Marion Barry's impeachment. Do you agree?

If you read my blog, you know that I do. Remember the letter I wrote to the DC Council back in July? Chairman Gray's response. And then our continued conversation and follow-up.

Paul Craney, executive director of the D.C. Republican Party, thinks that "if this isn't something worth impeaching" than someone should "explain what is". Quite frankly, I agree Mr. Craney.

I also agree whole-heartedly with David Catania, that "this era of Mr. Barry living above the law has got to come to an end".

And I think it's time that Chairman Vincent C. Gray and his colleagues need to step up and push for the emergency legislation that would amend the city's home rule charter to allow it to impeach any official found to have violated city ethics laws or to have been engaged in corrupt behavior. Perhaps they don't want to pass this legislation, because they themselves might be held accountable for laws they themselves have violated, but this is just ridiculous. Barras says it all when she summarizes that "Barry thinks he is above the law. Impeaching him will prove he isn't."

r.e.e.l. Talk

2010-02-17T18:42:00.000Z

Tonight at 7pm

r.e.e.l. Talk for Real People

A Candid Discussion on What it Takes to Go from Dating to Marriage

Honfleur Art Gallery

1241 Good Hope Road SE

Renewed Energy

2010-02-12T03:05:00.002Z

This winter has taken a toll on the boilers that keep the homes in our condo association warm. In fact, our mechanical guy said there is a good chance that these boilers (original to the buildings) wouldn't make it through another winter. Awesome! I see many a warm winter ahead....not.

Unless....D.C. manages to get the $35 million revolving federal grant that Mayor Fenty applied for in December 2009.

"The District submitted an application to the federal Department of Energy's Community Block Grant Retrofit Ramp-up Program, which is distributing $490 million in competitive grants to states and muncipalities to encourage homeowners and commercial property owners to make improvements such as replacing windows, upgrading heating and cooling systems and installing solar panels in order to cut annual energy costs by at least 25 pecent.

Led by the Department of the Environment and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, the District plans to establish a revolving fund where property owners could borrow money to make improvements and repay the loans via an annual assessment on their property tax bills. The annual energy cost savings is expected to be far greater than the additional tax assessment and the assessment is tied to the property so that if the building is sold, the new property owner would assume the cost of repaying the loan.

A Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) bond program, will ensure sustainable funding for this initiative in coming years. The legislation would allow the District to issue a series of conduit bonds up to $250 million. The federal funds would initially seed the fund and future bond sales would be backed by future tax collections.

The average age of a building in the District is about 72 years old, or about 30 years older than the national average. Given the age of the city's building stock, officials see a greater need for energy efficiency retrofits and the program managers expect the property owners could collectively save about $10 million in utility costs during the program's first three years.

Beyond energy savings, the program is also expected to create about 1,400 jobs per year in fields including construction, weatherization, energy auditing and building maintenance services.

Several states and municipalities, including Maryland and Virginia, have already approved legislation to create similar PACE programs."

Snow Removal Requests

2010-02-11T20:51:00.000Z

After watching 3 police cruisers and 2 fire trucks come barreling down Birney Place/Eaton Road today--and subsequently getting stuck--I have officially made my second request to have our street plowed. This time, however, I made my request online, at the 311 call center site, which allows me to get a tracking number. If you put in your email address, you'll even get a confirmation email with a link with which you can track your request.

It will be interesting to see if/when our street is cleared and if it has anything to do with my request, or rather the emergency personnel getting stuck. I guess we should all be thankful though, that the fire trucks were able to back out and not end up like this guy...

11th Street Bridge Project Is Underway

2010-02-09T19:06:00.000Z

Stop Your Whining

2010-02-09T06:23:00.000Z

I live on the southside, so if anyone could complain about a lack of city services it could be me. But not this time, not after this storm. If you recall, the entire city is covered in 20" of snow or more. So those of you blowing up the MPD 7D listserv about lack of snow removal "across the river", you need to sit down, shut up, and be patient.

DDOT is not your enemy and they have not forgotten about SE--so please stop your whining.

How do I know DDOT hasn't forgotten about us? Because the roadways in the rest of the city are just as bad as they are in SE. This afternoon, I left Barry Farm to go see just how "good" the other side had it, and I hate to burst the listserv's bubble, but NW, NE, SW--they're all in the same boat as east of the river--the roads are horrible. There are just as many mounds of snow and uneven roadways in NW as there are in SE. The entire city isn't functioning--which is probably why the Feds were out of business today (Monday) and are closed again tomorrow.

What I do suggest, is if you have to leave the house, take your shovel if you're gonna drive, because you're gonna get stuck, no matter where you are. It's not a class thing. Or a race thing. It's a snow thing.

Streetcar Mania

2010-02-08T03:55:00.000Z

Being loaded onto a truck in Ostrava, Czech Republic, 11/13/09

1 of 3 cars loaded on a cargo skid, Czech Republic, 11/13/09

Being transferred from truck to cargo skid at Port Hamburg, Germany, 11/17/09

Arrival at Port of Baltimore, 12/15/09

Cars 902 and 903, Port of Baltimore, 12/15/09

Passengers can open doors w/ the push of a button, 12/15/09

Close-up shot of car 901, 12/15/09

On the rails at Metro's Greenbelt Yard 12/23/09

An inside peek, 12/23/09

The pantograph, to power the vehicle from overhead wires, was stored inside during shipping, 12/23/09

12/23/09

As you can see from the photos above (courtesy of DDOT), the streetcars have made their long awaited journey to the states. DDOT is planning a public event for early this year to debut the vehicles....but I didn't think you should have to wait that long. To see more photos of the streetcars, visit DDOT's facebook page. Or if you're as much as a transit geek as me, watch the video below, of the streetcars being unloaded at Port of Baltimore.

Around My Way: Winter 2010 Edition

2010-02-07T22:37:00.003Z

Barry Farm Rec Center

In case you were wondering, that's knee deep snow (20"+)

Martin Luther King Avenue SE

Sumner Road SE

Suitland Parkway SE

Suitland Overpass

The making of...

....a Barry Farm Angel....

Look at that view!

Around My Way

2010-02-03T03:39:00.000Z

Awhile ago I posted pictures of my neighborhood. While doing a search on youtube tonight, I stumbled across this video of Barry Farm, posted January of this year....it depicts parts of my neighborhood that were not captured in my photographic commentary of my neighborhood.

(be wary, the music on this video does have some explicit lyrics...so if you're at work or in the public library...turn down the volume.)

"Broken Promises"

2010-02-03T03:22:00.000Z

Brought to you by AU Student Films in 2008.

Architecture Scholarships Available

2010-02-02T21:26:00.001Z

UPDATE: Apparently this is no longer (or never was) valid.

Syracuse University has 10 full rides for African American men and women interested in studying architecture. Mark Robbins, Dean of Syracuse University's School of Architecture is currently seeking young men and women interested in pursuing a five year professional degree in Architecture. He says he is deeply committed to bringing diversity to his field and has scholarship money set aside to fully cover education costs for 10 students. Syracuse University School of Architecture has a great reputation and this seems like a terrific opportunity, so please pass this on to everyone you know.

Contact: Mark Robbins, Dean, School of Architecture
robbinsm@syr.edu
(315) 443-2256
Syracuse University
201 Slocum Hall
Syracuse, NY 13244-1250

Syracuse's Architecture program is the fourth oldest program in the nation and is consistently rated among the top schools in the country. The B. Arch program is ranked second in the nation by DesignIntelligence 2010. Admission to their undergraduate program is competitive. Applicants must be strong academic performers and possess creative design skills.

I, myself, went to Georgia Institute of Technology, so I'm not familiar with Syracuse's admissions process, but would be happy to speak with anyone interested in applying. There are a plethora of local professionals that could also offer a helping hand when it comes to prepping portfolios, etc--so email me if you'd like some help.

Rooting DC

2010-01-31T23:19:00.000Z

You're invited to join DC's Field to Fork Network, the America the Beautiful Fund, dozens of local community organizations and members of DC's urban gardening community for the third annual Rooting DC urban gardening forum.

This day-long event - which includes panel discussions, workshops and talks - is free and open to the public.

Grow your own food! Soil preperation, starting seeds, composting, container gardening in small spaces
Cooking demonstations: preparing healthy & low-cost meals, making pickles, canning, raw foods
Info on ethnic specialty crops: Local West African, Caribbean, Central American, & African-American agricultural specialists
Where do we get affordable fresh food? Farmers' markets, co-ops, non-profit agencies, proposed regional distribution center
Roundtable discussions: Urban agriculture, affecting local policy change, Healthy Affordable Food for All

Rooting DC 2010

Saturday, February 20, 2009

9:30 am - 4 pm

Historical Society of Washington, 801 K Street NW

Near the Mt. Vernon Sq./Convention Center and Gallery Place metro stops

In its third year, Rooting DC promotes gardening as a low-cost way to provide food for families, particularly in areas where fresh, affordable food is hard to come by because of lack of supermarkets (aka River East). Plus, healthy diets are good for you and for the planet.

This year Rooting DC is focusing on Food Production, Distribution, Preparation and Preservation. One workshop will focus on how to teach gardening to kids and will be led by experienced professionals from the Washington Youth Garden and City Blossoms. There will also be presentations that touch on growing ethnic foods, nutrition, food demos, basic gardening and urban agriculture, and emergency food resources. Some workshops will even be in Spanish.

The keynote speakers include Joe Nasr (one of the "founding fathers" of urban agriculture) and Robert Egger (DC Central Kitchen). There will also be a presentation from Tony Cohen of the Historic Button Farm at Seneca Creek State Park, Maryland. This incredible unique facility has an "Underground Railroad Immersion Experience."

Also, be sure to check out Common Good City Farm in LeDroit Park....which offers youth and adults alike a safe, outdoor setting to learn, grow, and nourish.

61 Yr Term for Shooting Landscaper

2010-01-29T14:07:00.001Z

Via the Washington Post, Lankward Harrington, 25, who shot a landscaper four times in the face because the worker had gotten grass on him was sentenced to 61 years in prison Thursday by a D.C. Superior Court judge. Judge Geoffrey M. Alprin said the case was one of the most memorable in his more than 20 years on the bench.

During his trial in October, Harrington -- against his attorney's advice -- took the stand. He calmly said that on Oct. 16, 2006, he was walking to a store in the 2600 block of MLK Avenue, in the Parkchester housing cooperative, when he came upon Jose Villatoro, who was cutting grass. Villatoro, who worked for a landscaping company, was using a line trimmer to edge a lawn.

Harrington told the jury that Villatoro, 35, didn't stop cutting the grass to allow him to pass, as he had for other pedestrians. A few blades of grass blew into Harrington's hair and clothes. Harrington said he reached into his backpack and pulled out a .357 magnum, shooting Villatoro four times before walking away. Villatoro died at the scene.

"I made sure he saw me and looked me in the eye," Harrington, 25, calmly told a shocked audience in D.C. Superior Court. "I take pride in my appearance. I did not appreciate that."

After closing arguments in October of 2009, it took the jury less than 10 minutes to return a guilty verdict.

FLY Bake Sale This Saturday!

2010-01-27T13:35:00.001Z

Please join FLY's Young Women's Program for a Bake Sale this Saturday from 12pm - 3pm at 2021 MLK. All proceeds will benefit the Young Women's Program.

Mingle with the girls, see FLY's new program space, and get some baked goods to bring home - all for a great program.

The girls are raising money for their workshops, and for the Debutante Ball they will be attending in June at the end of their 9 month program.

If you have any questions about the Young Women's Program, or if you would like to donate baked goods, please contact Tawanda at Tawanda@flyouth.org

Also, if you haven't got one yet, you can buy one of the new FLY t-shirts before they run out! Design by Aniekan Udofia.

Facilitating Leadership in Youth (FLY) supports youth from the Barry Farm Community (ten years and counting). The mission of FLY is to support youth in achieving their educational goals, developing their artistic talents, and realizing exceptional leadership roles. Visit them on Facebook!

Extended Hours at Big Chair

2010-01-23T20:59:00.001Z

Starting this Monday, Big Chair Coffee and Grill will be open until 9pm. Yup, you heard me right...so go grab your laptop (free wireless), your best girl or guy friend, and get to sippn on some chocolate--I love me some mocha.

Cops n' Donuts

2010-01-22T04:51:00.001Z

The other night after work I stopped at Big Chair Coffee and took a seat next to three 7D police officers at the bar. I was glad to see the shop poppin that evening, but even happier to see that the local police department was also frequenting our newest arrival to the neighborhood. It's one thing to see the cops at the IHOP on Alabama, sitting in a booth in the back, but in my eyes, it's really freakn cool to pull up a bar stool and rub elbows with one at a coffee shop. Now before you start giving me a side-eyed glance and wondering if I've gone and lost my mind, give me a chance to break it down for you.

If your local beat cops get to know you, several things will happen:

First, and perhaps most important, you will get great service if you need to call the police (although it's unlikely that the local thugs will pay you a visit once they observe police officers hanging around your place). Being familiar with the local cops means your business has a "face" and, as such, is personalized to them and not just a street address with a ringing alarm. The same works for any business (or even house), since familiarity breeds mutual cooperation and respect for one another's problems.

Plus, cops are often privy to inside information about crime trends in the area and suspicious persons to look out for. They are also great liasons to the community. They often know "who's who" in the business community and can be a real help in spreading a good word about your business.

Even more important, the local citizens will get the message that cops hang around your place because it's an honest business. As customers begin seeing the cops stopping by to say "hi," it will subtly reinforce the fact that you must be "okay" if the cops like to shop or eat there. That's smart community relations.

So how do you get cops to "hang around" your shop?

A good pot of coffee, and perhaps a table in the corner (or bar as is the case at Big Chair) where they can catch up on their reports, can also go a long way toward developing good relationships with the police. After all, the old joke about cops hanging around the doughnut shop is based on truth. It's a quick and easy stop, and they are always made to feel welcome with a hot pot of coffee. However, there are not many places cops can gather to stretch their legs, get a cup of coffee and catch up on beat info and gossip other than the local 7/11. So providing them with an alternative stop is sure to be appreciated.

Offering a discount to officers can also draw them in (*wink*wink* Big Chair). The practice of giving freebies and discounts to our men in blue is not in fact illegal (at least that I know of), but most police departments frown upon cops taking any kind of tips, gratuities, bribes, or sweet baked goods without paying full price. From what I can gather, ethics guidelines in police handbooks vary from department to department, as do the ferocity of the wrist slaps cops can expect if they're caught on the donut-take. With that said, I've heard that the best way to do a discount would be to offer 10 percent off to members of the local Police Officer's Association or Fraternal Order of Police. This means the discount is not offered to the cops because they are police officers, but simply because they are members of a professional organization. This can avoid some touchy situations when it comes to the perception of "favors" being granted in order to receive preferential treatment from the police. You can offer the same discount to the military, the local Elks Lodge members, Fire Deparment, and other professional organizations, all on an equal basis.

Inviting the police to events at your store is another good way to encourage them to shop there. The police like to be involved in community activities. With the advent of the strong Neighborhood Policing movement in law enforcement over the past 10 years or so, most agencies have "Community Relations" officers. They are anxious to participate in the activities of the business community. You could also offer to donate small door prizes to police functions, such as annual picnics, fundraisers for memorials or other special projects. Remember, it's simply good business to maintain good relationships with everyone in the community, but especially your local police.

So how often do the police visit your shop? Do they only roll through when they are responding to a break-in or some other emergency? Or do they come hang out? Or, better yet, do they come to shop?

Summer Jobs for Architect of the Capitol

2010-01-19T14:55:00.002Z

Architect of the Capitol has a number of summer positions open to applicants. These positions pay $12.16/hr and are available in the horticultural, archival, architectural, engineering, IT, curatoriol, photographic, gardening, and accounting departments, in addition to some general office help positions. These positions are available to students attending high school, college, or entering college in September 2009 that are at least 16 years old by June 30, 2010. These positions offer great experience for young people considering entering any of the above fields.

The closing date for these announcements is Feb. 6; they can be viewed at www.aoc.gov under the employment tab, which will take you to the Avue application site.

Haiti Relief Efforts

2010-01-15T13:40:00.002Z

Today at 9:30 am, Mayor Adrian M. Fenty and Ambassador of Haiti Raymond Alcide Joseph will gather at the Embassy of Haiti, 2311 Massachusetts Avenue, NW to announce city relief efforts and opportunities for District residents to contribute support to earthquake victims.

On January 12th a powerful 7.0 quake hit the impoverished nation of Haiti. This was followed by more than 30+ strong aftershocks. There has been widespread damage and a loss of life estimated to be between 45,000 to 50,000 (source: Red Cross). There are projections of 2-3M without shelter.

I myself will be donating what I can to an organization called Architecture For Humanity (AFH). If you are unfamiliar with the group, they are a nonprofit who primarily work in the reconstruction phase of post disaster situations and will be focused on transitional and permanent housing and community structures. They will partner with Yele Haiti, AIDG and others by supplying them pro bono construction and design professionals, setting up community housing resource centers and support in design and building of earthquake resistant structures. Since the earthquake Architecture for Humanity has launched an appeal to focus on the long term reconstruction effort. In the first two days they've raised over $20,000 in individual giving and have pledges from a number of companies. If you care about building Haiti back better, donate today. Paypal will cover all charges for donations from Jan 12 to Feb 12. Therefore 100% of all donations will go to reconstruction.

Right now the need is relief and recovery but very soon it will be long term reconstruction. In the New York Times AFH noted the pre-existing issues with the building stock in Haiti. The NGOs focused on rebuilding need to be aware that in areas of great need structures are usually rebuilt in unsafe ways by well intentioned volunteers.

If you want to support immediate needs, give to the Red Cross, Partners in Health or UNICEF. If you want to support transitional and the long term reconstruction of Haiti then donate to AFH. By making a donation today you are supporting a grassroots network of architects, designers and building professionals to lend their talents and expertise in communities where their services are most needed and can least be afforded. We all know design matters. Help AFH use the power of design to build a more sustainable future in communities around the world.

Walmart Does Not Boost Employment or Retail Sales

2010-01-14T02:16:00.000Z

A new study released by researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Loyola University Chicago shows that the opening of a Walmart in Chicago's west side Austin neighborhood has not increased retail activity or employment opportunities in the area.

If you remember, I blogged about the effects of Walmart on urban areas previously and was not amused when our Councilmember spoke in favor of Walmart coming to the Howard Road development across from the Poplar Point site.

Supporters have always claimed that Walmart will bring hundreds of jobs to a neighborhood that desperately needs them (like Ward 8). However, the study found that stores near Walmart were more likely to go out of business, eliminating the equivalent of about 300 full-time jobs - about as many as Walmart initially added to the area. In other words, Walmart was replacing, but not enhancing, employment opportunities in the community. Co-author David Merriman, head of the UIC department of economics and professor of public administration said, "This means that communities around the city shouldn't see Walmart or other big-box retailers as a panacea for local economic problems." Community leaders suggested that big box developments should be viewed as one strategy in the city's arsenal to address economic development, but not the only one. Other leaders went on to say that "we should not be so quick to put all of our eggs in one basket. In some communities maintaining a diversity of shopping options, rather than building one big store, may be the more desirable development avenue."

Dhyia Thompson from Southsiders Organizing for Unity and Liberation (SOUL), part of the Good Jobs Chicago coalition, responded that Walmart is not the "economic engine that will push urban community economic development forward." Something that I hope our local leaders hear loud and clear.

Phil Nyden, director of Loyola's Center for Urban Research and Learning hopes that "this evaluation aids policy makers, scholars, and community activists as they consider the full range of economic development strategies, and not just big-box developments, in their respective neighborhoods.

Circulator Will NOT Cross the Anacostia River

2010-01-13T22:28:00.002Z

No big surprise here, but the Examiner reports that a D.C. Council committee backs a plan to run a city-funded Circulator bus into Arlington, but it rejected a last-minute proposal to start a new route serving residents east of the Anacostia River. The bill now runs to full council.

If you didn't already know, the Circulator operates on five routes, not one of which crosses the Anacostia and the fare is only $1.

Councilmember Kwame Brown objected to the Rosslyn bill, saying the District should not provide a service to VA when it is unwilling to do the same for all of D.C.

It seems that the general consensus is that a SE route will not be added (for now) because it would mean declining service. However, Councilman Phil Mendelson agrees with Brown in that, the Council should not wait to bring the Circulator to poorer neighborhoods.

The District Department of Transportation is open to expansion but the issue is funding and that it would depend on how popular the service is. Most folks view the Circulator as an affordable transportation option linking various districts. The key being that it's linking fully functioning entertainment/business districts. Can we rightfully say River East is a fully functioning "district"? Not in the entertainment sense thats for sure. Now while, I understand that this would allow the Circulator to become multi-modal, I tend to agree with Kwame. The Circulator is fully funded by the District. Unless VA is gonna chip in with some funding, should we be expanding out to VA prior to expanding to other neighborhoods in DC? Should the River East crowd have to wait until the area is more exciting? If the timeliness (or lack thereof) of when the Green Line managed to cross the Anacostia is any indicator on the city's views of public transportation over here, then Wards 7 and 8 should not hold their breath as to if/when we get the Circulator.

What are your thoughts? Do you care if the Circulator ventures in this direction?

Two Thumbs Up

2010-01-12T01:32:00.001Z

Traits of a winning coffee shop include a comfortable atmosphere, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and above all, good coffee (or in my case, tea). Big Chair Coffee has all three, plus an upstairs lounge (not quite open yet), and it's locally owned, too. They offer a full range of coffee drinks, from espresso to mocho, plus non-coffee beverages such as chai, hot chocolate, juices, sodas, etc. Hungry? Try a veggie burger, turkey burger, omelettes, hash browns, or a pastry. If you come through in the evening and want something with a bit more zang, look for beer or wine in the near future. This funky, colorful and inviting place looks to be the new spot to meet my friends for a bit after work. Looking forward to Saturday brunch this weekend. For some great photos of the place check out And Now, Anacostia and Congress Heights on the Rise.

Life is short, drink good tea.

NCPC Approves Coast Guard Headquarters Design

2010-01-11T19:37:00.000Z

DC Mud posted last week that the new Coast Guard Headquarters planned for St. Elizabeths is now on track to begin construction as soon as February. The latest building designs, reviewed again and approved Jan 7th by the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC), include 1.175 million s.f. of space for upwards of 3,860 employees. Issues involving increased traffic on Sheperd Highway and the location of the security perimeter with respect to the historic cemetary were also discussed. Check out DC Mud's post for the complete story.

Sugar, Spice, and Everything Nice

2010-01-11T13:23:00.001Z

So if you follow any of the River East blogs than you know that a there's a new coffee shop in town. Big Chair Coffee's grand opening was this morning at 7am. I myself, won't be able to check out the new spot until this evening after work, but you can count on hearing my thoughts later on, but by all means, don't wait for me...support our newest local business today! Check out And Now, Anacostia's post about this morning's opening!

Big Chair Coffee

Grand Opening

Today, January 11th, 2009

7am - 7pm

2122 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE

(across from the Big Chair of course)

Big Chair Coffee Grand Opening!

2010-01-06T13:52:00.001Z

Grand Opening

Big Chair Coffee

Monday, January 11, 2010

7am - 7pm

2122 Martin Luther King Jr Ave

Come get your drink (and eat) on.....

More Progress

2010-01-05T01:59:00.000Z

Photo update of construction progress....(these shots are taken along Firth Sterling).

Barry Farm - the Condo Version?

2010-01-02T19:59:00.001Z

One of my fellow River East neighbors decided to tell a local reporter that I live in the "condo version of Barry Farm(s)" [article yet to be published]. Now I won't argue with his actual statement, because yes, I live in a condo...but it made me ask what the "condo version" of Barry Farm is like? Is it different from the single family home version? The apartment version? Are there other versions of Barry Farm? A male version? A female version? I mean really, I've lived here for five years, and I don't believe any of my neighbors have ever said I live in the "condo version"...So I'm asking, are there really multiple versions of Barry Farm or is my neighbor implying I live in a bubble?

Perhaps I am misinterpreting what this particular Commissioner meant, but it sounded like he was judging someone just because of where/how they lived. Hasn't River East been trying to convince the media and the rest of the city to not be so quick to pass judgment and actually take the time to get to know the real residents of Wards 7 and 8? Why would someone in my own backyard...actually say something like that?

And more importantly, does it really matter that I live in a condo? The larger community has been able to look past my "class" and see a living, breathing, person inside. Case in point, while out shoveling snow the other weekend, my neighbor--a wife, a mother of 3--stopped to chat it up. We talked about the '96 and '03 snow storms and she even asked if her husband should bring their bag of snow pellets down, to make moving the car easier--did I forget to mention, that she lives in one of the "section 8" buildings that encompasses the neighborhood? No, I didn't forget, because it doesn't matter where she lives, just how great she is. About an hour later, (same day, still digging), a few more people passed, and an elderly gentleman joked that he would provide the cocoa, if I would come dig his car out--since his grandson was snowed in and couldn't come through until later. And after awhile, while some of the kids played in the snow, a few people gathered and questioned whether the plows would make it to Barry Farm or if we would have to wait for it all to melt. Funny, but the entire time I was outside, not one of those people treated me any different because I live in a condo. I was just another neighbor.

Now, one could argue, that the young commissioner was not questioning whether I have pleasant conversations with my neighbors, but perhaps was implying that I live in a dream world. That because I don't live off of subsidies or vouchers that I can't possibly understand Barry Farm. And even though I live smack dab in the middle of Parkchester Apartments and Barry Farm Dwellings (two communities that are constantly beefing), this condo owner has no idea as to what kind of crime plagues the community. It's funny, but I can only hope that one day my world will be all ice cream cones and rainbows, because currently I'm all too familiar with what goes on in my neighborhood. Ever since I came to call Barry Farm my home, there has been ample crime scene tape that I've had to walk around, police barricades I've had to drive through, and plenty of frantic 911 calls made in hopes the medics would get here in time. And unfortunately, my experience hasn't strictly been along the sidelines. Two short years ago I was officially initiated into the Barry Farm community when a bullet fired from an assault rifle pierced the glass in my living room window, not 2" from my head. Some people would have left, but I didn't. I also didn't wander around the community, giving everyone the evil eye...I filed a police report and had the glass replaced. Perhaps you could say that if I had been living in the "condo-version" of Barry Farm, that my bubble had just been burst...

Am I making too big a deal over his comment? Any long time residents have thoughts/comments about us condo buying people (even if we've lived here five years or more)? What about the single family home folk? Is everyone hell bent on accepting the us versus them mentality--because if you think about it, thats exactly what my little Commissioner friend is saying....right?

Be Safe Tonight

2009-12-31T23:14:00.000Z

If you are over 21, after your night of partying call 1-800-200-TAXI (8294). The dispatcher will send a taxi to pick you up. The taxi will take you to your destination for FREE (up to $50). You MUST call the number and go through dispatch to get a free ride.

For more information, go to the Washington Regional Alcohol Program website.

Seasons Greetings

2009-12-23T20:57:00.000Z

Metro To Close Above Ground Rail

2009-12-19T16:34:00.003Z

If you must leave the house today may I suggest walking to your destination? Metrorail and Metrobus are experiencing heavy delays due to the weather. Metrorail is currently running on 10 to 12 minute intervals on all lines, while Metrobus is only running service on snow emergency routes.

Once the snow hits the 8" mark, Metro will have to decide how long they can operate above ground. If enough snow coats the electrified third rail, power will be cut off from trains. The above map (courtesy of WMATA) shows what the Metrorail system will look like once that call is made--thus cutting off rather large sections from the core, so plan your trip accordingly.

UPDATE: Metro will close above ground rail and Metrobus at 1pm today.

Skip the Bag, Save the River

2009-12-19T01:21:00.003Z

The District Department of the Environment and CVS/pharmacy have teamed up to distribute reusable shopping bags. Beginning January 1, 2010, District businesses that sell food or alcohol must charge you 5 cents for every disposable paper or plastic carry-out bag. You can save a nickel by bringing your own bag.

To learn more about the new bag law and DDOE's efforts to clean up the Anacostia River, please visit http://green.dc.gov/bags today.

DDOE/CVS Bag Distribution

Ward 7 & 8

Monday, December 21, 2009

**Cancelled due to weather**

10:30 am - 1:30 pm

2646 Naylor Road SE

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

10:30 am - 1:30 pm

3230 Pennsylvania Ave SE

Hungry For Change?

2009-12-17T23:29:00.000Z

A friend of mine, recommended that I watch a documentary called Food, Inc. And now I'm recommending that you do too.

In Food, Inc., filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the veil on our nation's food industry, exposing the highly mechanized underbelly that has been hidden from the American consumer with the consent of our government's regulatory agencies, USDA and FDA. Our nation's food supply is now controlled by a handful of corporations that often put profit ahead of consumer health, the livelihood of the American farmer, the safety of workers and our own environment. We have bigger-breasted chickens, the perfect pork chop, herbicide-resistant soybean seeds, even tomatoes that won't go bad, but we also have new strains of E. coli--the harmful bacteria that causes illnesses for an estimated 73,000 Americans annually. We are riddled with widespread obesity, particularly among children, and an epidemic level of diabetes among adults. Food, Inc. reveals surprising--and often shocking truths--about what we eat, how it's produced, who we have become as a nation and where we are going from here.

After watching it, of course I thought about how most families in River East may not think they have many options in order to eat well. So I decided to do a search for sustainable foods in our area. Sustainable foods can be found in our community by purchasing organic and/or locally grown produce and products. I did a search for farmers markets, community supported agriculture programs, restaurants and more with the Eat Well Guide.

Within a 1 mile radius of 20020, I came across 2 farmers markets.

Within a 5 mile radius of 20020, I came across 1 caterer, 1 creamery, 1 educational center, 1 farmer, 13 farmers markets, 2 online shopping options, 11 restaurants, and 8 stores.

Within a 10 mile radius of 20020, I came across 3 co-ops, 1 coffee shop, 2 community gardens, 4 farmers, 36 farmer markets, 23 restaurants, 21 stores, 3 wholesale venues, plus all the stuff above...

Here is some of what I discovered:

5 A Day CSA
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
http://5adaycsa.com

5 A Day CSA provides a service where they support multiple local farmers who are committed to sustainable farming practices. These farmers support themselves, their families and their employees through the sale of their fruits and vegetables. By financially supporting these farmers, they bring affordable primarily organic produce to the community. They also provide seasonal produce year round.

Boxes cost between $20-$70 (individual 1-2 people; small family 2-4 people; large family 4 or more people). Produce is delivered weekly at community sites and homes (in certain areas).

The Wellness Cafe
325 Pennsylvania Ave SE
202-543-2266
www.organiccafedc.com
Juice Bar and lunch buffet in a primarily vegetarian health food store with organic deli. They cater!

Master Peace Community Farm
62nd and Sheridan Street
Riverdale, MD 20011
301-405-0656
1/2 acre organic vegetable farm, youth education program, and community garden.
Come by any Saturday, mid-March to Thanksgiving to volunteer, learn more about where you food comes from, etc.

My Organic Garden
202-368-9070, Joshua Wenz
They specialize in full-service organic gardens, custom designed, planted and maintained for you all season long. With their service, you can be involved as little or as much as you like. Learn how to grow a successful sustainable organic garden, or just choose what you'd like planted and enjoy the weekly harvest of veggies, herbs, and flowers. Don't wait to experience the pride and convenience of growing organic produce right in your own yard!

Washington's Green Grocers
www.washingtonsgreengrocer.com
Awesome home delivery of local and organic selections. Browse and learn more about their unique home delivery service bringing you fresh organic produce, dairy, eggs and other scrumptious and healthy items to your doorstep. (They deliver to every single part of DC, including Ward 7 and 8)...They even have recipes on their website!

Secrets of Nature Health Food Store and Restaurant
3923 S Capitol St SW
202-562-0041
www.secretsofnaturehealth.com
Carry-out, Restaurant, Catering, Health Store

Capitol Hill Poultry
225 7th St SE
202-544-4435
They carry pre-cut organic chicken, as well as whole organic chicken and usually organic whole turkey. Store hours are daily from 7am-6pm. Chicken and turkey are fed 100% vegetarian feed, no added hormones, no antibiotic use, grass fed and grain supplement, free range or roaming, cage free

With that said, I also stumbled upon a website discussing the Brooklyn Rescue Mission (BRM). BRM envisions urban farming as the starting point for a self-reliance movement, empowering neighborhood residents to take ownership of their own food supply, nutrition and neighborhood revitalization. BRM endeavors to build community pride, provide healthy provisions to its neediest residents, encourage youth entrepreneurship and develop a communal culture towards land use and community health through an innovative sustainable food system.

I commend BRM for what they are trying to do and for their success in Bed-Stuy. I think it would be way cool, if maybe through a partnership with the Ward 8 Farmer's Market, we tried something similar--an urban farm in Barry Farm? ..or even just somewhere in River East. I think it would be dope to involve the community in growing stuff here...maybe we can get "My organic garden" to help us get started...I don't have a green thumb at all, but I love to get all sorts of dirty...so I'm willing to try...anyone else think this is a good idea?

Here's to HOPE?

2009-12-15T05:21:00.000Z

The Post did an article on Henson Ridge today that caught my eye. Primarily because what was done at Henson Ridge, is similar to what is proposed for my neighborhood, but my interest was also peaked because of how my fellow River East blogger, the Advoc8te responded.

Now, I love me some Advoc8te, but I have to point out that even though I know some happy homeowners in Henson Ridge, I've heard the same stories that the Post reported. And quite frankly, it doesn't surprise me. I mean you can't put a new coat of paint on a car and expect it to run like new, if you don't put just as much work in the engine, right?

Most of you probably follow what I'm hinting at, but in case you don't....let me explain.

HUD started the HOPE VI program to fundamentally transform public housing. Ambitious in scale and mission, HOPE VI was designed to address the problems of severely distressed public housing by focusing not only on the phsycial conditions of the development, but also on the economic and social needs of residents. What's interesting is that I didn't know that. I honestly thought HOPE VI only aimed to demolish public housing projects that were in crappy shape and replace them with sparkly new homes. I didn't really see that HUD was attempting to also cure the socio-economic ills of public housing. And quite frankly, I don't believe my assumptions are that far off. Research suggests that most HOPE VI projects have at best had mixed success in meeting their supportive services goals, with housing authorities focusing more on the bricks and mortar components of redevelopment at the expense of community building and residents' needs. Which takes us back to the article on Henson Ridge--it looks pretty on the outside, but does it have the foundation necessary to be all pretty on the inside too? And more importantly, what did HUD actually promise to build? Pretty houses or the "foundation" too? (Not all of those grants, cover all of HUD's goals, fyi)...

Anyway, the type of house you live in; high rise, garden-style apartment, or even town-home, will have little to no impact on crime, drug abuse, and lack of economic means. Social ills will not be cured by simply building something new and mixing people from a wide variety of economic classes. Good intentions may be there, but the foundation is not. Living next door to someone with more money will not provide the motivation or training needed to allow "me" to move up the social economic ladder and out of public housing, nor will it automatically reduce crime and prompt *magic* economic redevelopment. What is missing from the majority of HOPE VI projects is the emphasis on the community services that play a crucial role in the improvement of residents' lives. Reshaping an impoverished urban environment, however, does not merely encompass housing and community programs. To produce viable new communities, such visions must also address...."schools, retail and commercial amenities, parks and recreation space, transportation access, physical security and community building." Economic and social turnaround of a neighborhood is contingent on the contributions of community activism, a strong economy, and increased private and public sector funds--in other words, there must be a holistic approach. And unfortunately, (in my opinion) Henson Ridge, has not [yet] seen the cooperation of many different interests, nor does it embody all the necessary components to deem it a success. But does that mean we give up on HOPE? Tell me what you think in the comments.

Hip Hop Hooray!

2009-12-15T01:01:00.000Z

As good of a job as I think 7D is doing in my neck of the woods, I don't always give them an easy time. You know how it goes, people are really quiet when things are going well, and tend to speak loudest when something goes wrong. So after watching the police step up their presence at the intersection of Birney Place/Eaton Road within the last week, I had to do a post.

Last Thursday as I made a quick stop home prior to heading back out again for dinner, I drove through what appeared to be a police checkpoint. Lots of pretty flashing lights with multiple officers on both sides of the street--not really sure what their reasoning was, but I didn't care. 7D was out in force and thats all that really mattered. And then, just a few short days later, (tonight) I see two unmarked cars at the same intersection with several cops having "discussions" with what appeared to be handcuffed individuals. I didn't actually see cuffs, but why else would these gentleman be standing so orderly and in such a nice, straight line?

Right, so anyway, high five 7D. We appreciate the attention.

Sheridan Station Update

2009-12-11T15:36:00.005Z

Not a big update, but Sheridan Station is currently in the sub-bidding phase. Bids are due to the General Contractor (WCS Construction, Attn: Fred Dipietro) on 12/28/09 at 2pm. This $105,000,000 project is currently seeking site plan approvals and vertical bidding is expected March 2010.

In September of this year, Sheridan Station won a $5.8 million competitive Recovery Act grant from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Recovery Act grant is for utilizing green materials and technology to create public housing that conserves energy and encourages more healthy lifestyles.

HUD Director Shaun Donovan has stated that this grant is a "perfect example of using the Recovery Act to rebuild the economy stronger and wiser by investing in new and emerging sustainable industries." What has been called a "premier green, transit-oriented mixed-income housing development," Sheridan Station will have solar power array, a vegatative green roof which will double as a stormwater management facility and place for resident relaxation, bio-retention facilities, Energy Star appliances and sustainable building materials.

From what I understand a guiding principal of the development is to create a green, holistic model of redevelopment starting from the ground up. Let me geek out for a minute and state how excited and slightly surprised I am to hear HUD talk about new urbanist concepts, such as reduced parking ratios and dedicated bicycle spaces. Apparently the name "Sheridan Station" was given to the project to reflect its future as a transit oriented development near the Anacostia Metro Station. The project summary suggests that numerous pedestrian connections have been made to bring residents from the site down to the public sidewalks onto Sheridan Road and towards the Metro station.

And one can only hope that this is indeed the case. I wonder if DDOT is involved in the greater masterplan, because even if the private development caters to the pedestrian, it is imperative that the human scale is honored at street level as well. If you're familiar with the site then you know of the wall and the steep inclines spawning from it. How they tackle the transition and the walking experience along Sheridan Road will be interesting as well as difficult, but I really do believe a street that currently caters more to cars than people would improve if the pedestrian experience were truly considered in this "holistic development" even as you step from private to public space. Drivers tend to be more courteous and vigilant on streets that provide a unique character or personality, are sensitive to their neighborhood or main street environments and are green or well landscaped. Ground cover and trees help define the edges of the street and are a vital ingredient to placemaking. As people find streets more pleasing to travel or walk along they tend to come to these streets for greater social interaction. More people walking and driving through a place creates more surveillance, and hence dampen the potential for crime--something the old Sheridan Terrace was once a haven for.

Before and after of a "complete street"

I know my part of town will never actually look like the picture above, but we still can take some of those elements to create what some people are calling a "complete street". The ten key elements are:

- Street vendors - help make streets destinations
- Pedestrian street lamps - people need lighting at least as much as cars
- Curb extensions or bulb-outs - narrows the street at crosswalks
- Dedicated bus lanes - allows buses to be as efficient as light rail
- Dedicated bike lanes - allows bikes to be as efficient as well
- Raised, textured sidewalks - huge aesthetic difference, and clear distinction as a pedestrian-first zone
- Traffic lights with a leading pedestrian interval - gives pedestrians a headstart before cars start turning into their lane
- Bollards - Non-obtrusive pedestrian protectors
- Street trees and plantings - arguably the biggest aesthetic enhancer for any street
- Speed bump - classic traffic calming

Here's to hoping someone is listening....

Busboys and Poets on MLK?

2009-12-10T20:45:00.000Z

DC Mud has the scoop on the construction status of Matthews Memorial Terrace--a 99 unit housing development slated to break ground along MLK earlier this year. Unfortunately construction stalled due to the economy--but DC Mud reports that they might be gearing back up since contractor bids are due December 14th.

What I find most intriguing about this news, wasn't really the article itself, but the comment made by Commissioner Ellis for SMD 8c01 about the "proposed addition of Busboys and Poets at the storefront location for this development"....I hadn't heard that--in fact, last I heard the "restaurant" was considered a dining room and was actually part of the community building that is not part of the package that is currently out to bid. But color me happy, if I'm wrong. Busboys and Poets coming to SE--too good to be true?

Underwater Mortgages and Eminent Domain...Who wins?

2009-12-06T04:03:00.001Z

My property is "underwater" or for those of you who don't know...I owe more than my house is worth (negative equity). I just did the math off of a recent sale in my association of a foreclosure, and I can't even bring myself to say out loud, just how underwater I am. But I can afford my monthly payments, so being in negative equity should have no material impact on my life. My house is my home, and since I need a roof over my head, I should be ok...right?

I'm in process of studying for my architectural registration exams, (six down, three to go, one being on Monday)...and eminent domain is one of many topics on this next exam, and as I was reviewing my notes, the Barry Farm/ Parkchester/ Wade Road Redevelopment came to mind. When I first discovered the plan about a year after it was "approved" I noticed that not all of the buildings that exist today will exist "tomorrow". Everyone knew that Barry Farm Dwellings, the section 8 housing that the District manages would be redeveloped, and there are a few buildings that the city has already acquired which sit vacant along Eaton Road--so it's a little more than obvious that those will be torn down too, but I often wondered what would happen to all the single family homes, condos, and apartment buildings that sit in between?

When I stumbled across the plan and duly noted that my building was no where to be found and that the condos next to me were gone, as were a fair amount of other buildings I started making phone calls to various agencies as to what that meant. I was assured by one sympathetic woman that even though the plan had been approved (and I now had no say as to what happened to my house), I would be "fairly" compensated by the District when they did finally bring in the wrecking balls.

But who decides what is "fair"?

And regardless of what is considered "fair", if your property is underwater, than what happens when the government exercises eminent domain on your house and only pays the "fair market share"? Do I get slapped with a bill from the bank for the difference on my mortgage? Or would the bank just have to eat the difference for the loan?

Thoughts?

I can't help but quote philosopher/author Ayn Rand: "The idea that 'the public interest' supercedes private interests and rights can have but one meaning - that the interests and rights of some individuals take precendence over the interests and rights of others."...

Now I'm not saying the redevelopment of Barry Farm is necessarily a bad thing, but I do not think it would be fair for the government to take my home (or anyone elses for that matter), and leave us with a big fat bill to boot...if you're gonna tear my house down, at least help me get out from under my mortgage so I can afford to go elsewhere....right?

Thanks to Cox and Forkum for the use of the political cartoon...

ANC 8C Meeting Tonight!

2009-12-02T21:39:00.000Z

ANC 8C Meeting

Wednesday, 12/2/09

6:30pm - 8:30 pm

UPO Petey Greene Center

2907 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave

Thanks to the Advoc8te for the image above...

Asylum: Inside the Closed World of State Mental Hospitals

2009-11-29T18:56:00.000Z

Via Dwell magazine, a peak into Saint Elizabeth's. Photograph from Christopher Payne's new book, Asylum.

Brrr!

2009-11-28T04:14:00.001Z

A week ago I did a post about the ripple effect of the economic crisis on financially responsible homeowners. I kind of wish I had waited until this weekend to do the post, because I wouldn't have written about the lack of landscaping or cleaning....I would have been referring to the lack of heat. It's been a week now, and the last bit of information I was given was on Wednesday at 5pm to hear a repair man was coming.......it's Friday...11pm, and if you were to see me now, you'd think I was headed out to go play in the snow. I've got two pairs of socks on, sweatpants with a pair of thermals on underneath, two sweatshirts, and a long sleeved tshirt...I'm ok, as long as I don't get out from under the covers...(3 blankets). I feel like I've bought the "little electric heater that could"....as it tries to keep my really freakn cold condo warm.

Clearly the cold has gone to my head. I'm gonna go make (yet) another cup of hot chocolate..with marshmellows this time...perhaps those little sugary light and fluffies will make me all warm and fuzzy...

It's a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

2009-11-25T02:39:00.000Z

"Lawnmowers and Leaf Blowers"

Equipment on loan from William C Smith, thanks Carol!

Our courtyard before...

Our courtyard during...

Look at all those hard workers...

We did the parking lot too...and look how excited we are!

Our courtyard after....

The Cleanup Crew....thanks everyone!

It was a beautiful day in the neighborhood, this past Saturday...I just want to thank the homeowners and the community volunteers that came out to assist in our community cleanup. It was really empowering to work side by side with my neighbors. The property looks great and I'm proud to say that members of my association (even ones who did not participate this weekend) have vowed to keep up the hard work every other weekend, until snow fall--when we'll trade in our rakes for shovels.

I'd like to give a special thanks to Carol at William C Smith for the equipment loan and for also donating some rakes, shovels, and a wheelbarrow to help our community to keep up the good look! As our nation continues to navigate through this financial crisis I'm sure our community will continue to have its fair share of struggles, but I have a renewed faith in my association....and the larger community--thanks to all the readers and commentors for your suggestions and support--couldn't have done this without you guys!

Lawnmowers and Leaf Blowers Part II

2009-11-22T14:23:00.002Z

Well I have to provide an update and let everyone know that our community bonded Saturday morning. There was just a handful of us, but we managed to get the leaves raked and a fresh look for the property. Anything really is possible if you work together.

Yes! Organic Coming to River East

2009-11-20T13:12:00.003Z

I missed this in the Business Journal yesterday, but apparently Developer Tim Chapman of The Grays on Pennsylvania has secured Yes! Organic as a retail tenant. The Grays is located near the intersection of Pennsylvania and Minnesota, an already rapidly expanding corridor that the City has a lot of stake in. Look for the new 7500sf Yes! Organic Market beginning summer of 2010.

Calling All Lawnmowers and Leaf Blowers

2009-11-18T01:58:00.002Z

After posting about the cons of purchasing a condo and the reality of how the financial situation is affecting my particular association, I have decided to embrace the idea of one anonymous commentor and ask the much broader community for help. This coming weekend, I've managed to rally 4 out of 40 homeowners (five if you include me) to do a "community cleanup" on our property. Now four may not sound like a big number, but we've got big hearts and we think that we can really straighten this community up with the right attitude (even if it is just aesthetic). The issue? Equipment. I've got a vacuum, some rubber gloves, some windex, and a broom. What we don't have is a lawn mower, rakes, leaf blowers, bush "clippers", etc. So I'm asking if anyone out there would be willing to loan my community the above mentioned items for a day..or even just an afternoon--perhaps this weekend? The five of us are hard working folk and will do what we can with what we have, but would appreciate any help we could receive. Our budgets are limited and knowing we need to plan ahead for snow shoveling, sanding/salting, we were hoping to have to avoid buying or renting equipment to get this job done.

If you're interested in helping our community out, email me, urbanarchitect78@gmail.com so we can discuss.

UPDATE: William C Smith is loaning our Association rakes, shovels, wheelbarrows, etc for Saturday. And we've got three new friends in Congress Heights who have not only agreed to do a little "hard labor", but one person has offered a lawn mower and a leaf blower! I won't get all cheesy and start talking about all the love we are feeling, but I will say thanks to all the commentors with suggestions and to the people who are actually volunteering. It's all very much appreciated.

All I Hear are Crickets...

2009-11-16T23:56:00.000Z

A couple of weeks ago we had our ANC 8C meeting to discuss the audit. When I left the meeting I was under the impression we had just under 30 days to respond to the audit in order to continue to receive funding from the City. Now I disagree that we should continue to receive money, (because we don't know how it's being spent), but I also know the Commissioners disagreed with me and were going to meet and discuss. The problem? The community has yet to hear from the Commission. Has a meeting been called? An executive session? You have about two weeks left to respond and with Thanksgiving falling toward the tail end of those two weeks, I would assume you would be meeting this week. Can the 8C community get an update Commissioners Sheldon, Jordan, Ellis, or Cuthbert?

The Ripple Effect

2009-11-12T01:34:00.003Z

I’ve been a condo owner for about five years now. I had been a long time renter when I stumbled upon my diamond in the rough back in 2004, so I was eager to call this place my own. I did an 80/20 split on my mortgage and qualified for so many credits, that at the end of the day, I probably cut a check for about $500 at closing.

I admit, I got caught up in the idea of owning my own home, and really had no idea what I was getting into. Hindsight definitely is 20/20. But I absolutely positively can say, I do not regret purchasing my first property and I have no regrets buying in River East. What I do regret is purchasing a condominium.

I grew up in a strict household with a father who was no “softy” when it came to money and in turn, we didn’t buy anything unless we could afford it. So even though I had strayed somewhat from that mentality when purchasing my first property (by putting very little down) I had done the math, and I knew what I was in for. I also understood that in five years, one of my loans was going to begin to show it’s “arm” and adjust, at a rate I couldn’t even begin to fathom. So I kept my eye on the market, the interest rates, and the comps in my neighborhood and in May of 2008, I refinanced, combined the two loans and got a nice low fixed rate for 30 years. I have to give my dad props, he’d taught me to look out for myself financially and I had managed to keep myself out of the line of fire. I didn’t become a statistic and was “safe” from the upcoming crisis.

Unfortunately, it seems I'm not very safe at all. This mortgage crisis is having a ripple effect, and no matter how hard I work to keep my financials in line, I’m affected just as much as the next person. As my neighbors begin to default on their mortgages, my association is beginning to see multiple unit vacancies. As the monthly payments on adjustable-rate mortgages go up, more and more families are finding it difficult to pay their mortgages and even more difficult to pay their condo fees. What does that mean for me? Well, something I learned relatively soon after purchasing this property is that when you buy a condo, you’re linked financially with people you don’t know, and unfortunately you have to take the good with the bad.

And right now, it’s downright nasty.

Our association is struggling, with a capital “S”. Gas, water, insurance, management, trash, maintenance, snow removal, etc is covered under our monthly assessment. In the winter months, homeowners see a drop in their electric bills, while the Association sees a spike in the gas bill, as our heat is a common expense. And as the Association’s income stream is drying up, homeowners such as myself are left to cover my neighbors’ debts. If one owner is unable to pay, then the rest of us are left holding the bag, so to speak.

Now don’t get me wrong, there is recourse. D.C. does have the “super lien” law that enables condo associations to collect at least six months worth of unpaid fees per unit in the event of foreclosure. This places our Association in line ahead of lenders to collect outstanding debts when the unit sells, but the process isn’t exactly quick, so we must wait patiently. An unfortunate trend that also seems to go hand in hand with foreclosure is that as banks acquire units, they are dragging out the process of transferring the title, so the obligation of keeping condo fees current while they “own” the unit, is not on their shoulders, thus pushing our association into even more debt.

In order to compensate for this lack of income the condo board at my association wants to raise the fees, but since they can no longer count on 40 homeowners to pay, they are creating budgets off of the 10 people who do pay. As an example, we'll say it takes $20,000 to keep our Association up and running every month (all utilities, maintenance, etc). Divide that by 10 dependable homeowners, and you see an adjustment to $2000/mo per homeowner in fees. I can’t fault the Board for thinking like this, they are doing what they can with both hands tied behind their backs, but to force innocent homeowners to pay their neighbors’ debts is difficult to stomach, especially when the condo fees exceed your monthly mortgage payment. It's the one part of condo life that I wish I had truly understood when I purchased five years ago, hence my regret with purchasing a condo at all. The financially responsible homeowners of my association are getting punched in the face over and over again by their own community with no end in sight.

And while we pay an exorbitant amount of money to keep our heads above water, we've watched our property decline in the process. Last month after a handful of people paid (one handful, not two), the water company sent a disconnect notice for one of the buildings. Those same people who had just written checks, handed over additional money to keep the water and the insurance current. Unfortunately, this will not be a one time occurance, as we didn't have enough to pay management or the gas company or the trash collectors, etc. The cleaning and maintenance crews were fired long ago and it's up to those of us who care, to pickup after everyone else in order to maintain the premises...

It's a scary thought, but what happens when the few of us who do pay, can no longer support the masses? Do we all get put out in the cold? It looks like that might be the case.

Recently, condominium associations in Georgia, Florida, and Massachusetts are suffering similar fates. Buildings are being condemned due to water getting shut off, trash piling up, and just general lack of upkeep within their associations. Homeowners who have never missed a payment on their mortgage, but just can't afford to make up for the massive shortfall of income are losing their homes. There is no bailout for the financially responsible condominium owner. It's just tough luck. We took a gamble, and bought into something, thinking we could depend on our neighbors to build a community. And at this rate, condo owners across the country are finding it's a gamble that we just might lose.

Anacostia Fotoweek Starts Tonight

2009-11-06T13:34:00.001Z

Fotoweek, November 7th-14th is going on all over the city, "from our nation's prestigious museums and institutions to embassies, cutting edge galleries, and even public schools." The annual competition received over 3500 amazing entries from 39 states and 28 countries. There will be powerful international exhibitions, thought provoking lectures, and a chance to have your own portfolio critiqued by experts. It will be a total photgraphic immersion, featuring the latest in documentary, fine art, and every genre of photography...and most of the events are free!

Opening in River East:

A Retrospective Works
November 6th, 7pm
Free
Vivid Solutions DC
2208 Martin Luther King Avenue, SE
www.vividsoluctionsdc.com

Photography by Owen Franken - A Retrospective Works covers everything from political figures to landscape and travel photography. 1960's to present. Silent auction and reception hosted by Senator Al and Franni Franken. The Senator will be drawing his famous free hand map of the US to be auctioned off during the event. Tickets for the auction are $25, email bferraro@archdc.org or call 202.365.8392

Launch
Nov 7th, 7 pm
Free
Honfleur Gallery
1241 Good Hope Road, SE
www.honfleurgallery.com

As the WPOW evolves from a local organization into a national nonprofit, the show represents the organization's mission to connect to and educate the public of the work of women photographers, appropriatly titled Launch. Member entries were to embody the words 'embark, initiate, introduce and propel" as the theme of this show. The photographers featured in the juried exhibit are Astrid Riecken, Allison Shelley, Abby Greenawalt, Ashely Twiggs, Algerina Perna, Amanda Lucidon, Andrea Bruce, Carol Guzy, Gabriela Bulisova, Jamie Rose, Katie Falkenberg, Laura Pohl, Melina Mara, Sara L. Voisin and Yanina Manolva.

Eco-Action-Reaction
Nov. 7th, 7pm
Free
The ARCH Training Center
1231 Good Hope Road SE
www.archdc.org

Eco-Action-Reaction. Student photography focusing on the importance of renewable energy resources and exploring the environmental juxtaposition of man and nature. Funded in part by the national Endowment for the Arts.

Photography Review
Nov. 7th, 7pm
Free
Honfleur Gallery
1241 Good Hope Roade SE
www.honfleurgallery.com

Honfleur presents an array of represented photography from surreal landscapes to documentary photography. Exhibitors will include; Jean Francois Rauzier, Renee Woodward, John K. Lawson, Antoine Sanfeuntes, Phile Stein, Cathlyn Newell, Darren Smith & Jean Noel L'Harmeroult.

I am Art
Nov. 7th, 7pm
Free
2200 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE

BK Adams' and Steven M Cummings' I AM ART; presenting an interactive installation with interactive components.

Communication

2009-11-06T01:08:00.004Z

Some great conversations have started between residents and one of the five commissioners after last night's ANC meeting. I concur with most of what is being discussed (via an email exchange that was prompted this morning by one of the community members), and even though I intend on responding to that particular conversation, I wanted to continue to discuss what I started to hint at, on my blog last night.

I believe there is a need to create and maintain effective channels of communication with the citizens of 8C on matters affecting the livability of our neighborhoods and the community in general. The District of Columbia, through our ANC needs to foster partnerships of open communication between the city and our neighborhood; to enhance the environment in which citizens are afforded an opportunity to participate in local government decisions; to foster cooperation and consensus among diverse interests; to assist neighborhood residents in developing solutions to mutual problems; and to develop in the citizens a sense of personal pride and responsibility for our neighborhood.

With that in mind, I did a google search last night, subject matter: neighborhood input in local governance. I reviewed ideas from other agencies on transparency, accountability, community interests, function and responsibilities, etc. The information posted in italics below are some of the ideas I came across....

Functions and Responsibilities
Responsibilities of a ANC include:

1. Making a good faith effort to recruit a diverse and representative group of residents, property owners, business and non-profit representatives to participate in and perpetuate the governance and operation of the ANC.

2. Providing effective community participation in government by defining, articulating and addressing neighborhood problems and concerns; by advising, consulting and cooperating with the various City departments, boards, councils and task forces; and by notifying and relaying information to residents, property owners, business and non-profit representatives and the City regarding matters that affect their respective neighborhoods.

3. Providing community input on the efficiency and efficacy of the City’s delivery of services.

4. Making recommendations concerning particular actions, policies, plans, programs, projects, and other matters to the City Commission and to any City department or agency where the livability of the neighborhood is affected, including, but not limited to, land use, housing, community facilities, human services, social and recreational programs, open space and parks, traffic and transportation, environmental quality, and public safety.

5. Establishing and following clear processes for reporting the association’s position on matters affecting their respective neighborhoods to the City.

6. Assisting City staff in determining priority needs affecting the quality of life for the neighborhood and the overall community.

7. Undertaking and managing projects to benefit the ANC as may be agreed upon by the ANC membership or contracted with the City and/or other public agencies.

8. Maintaining current Commission rosters and providing the City with the names, addresses, e-mail addresses and phone numbers of each of the officers on the Commission who will receive all notices and other mailings from the City.

9. Submission, by each ANC, of an annual report to the City. Each report shall include, at a minimum, the following information:

a. Names, addresses, email addresses and telephone numbers of contact persons and officers elected and/or appointed at the annual election;

b. Dates of neighborhood meetings held during the previous calendar year;

c. Any changes to the approved by-laws;

d. A completed annual budget; and

e. Minutes from the organization’s meetings

The requested information will aid in maintaining updated listings of ANCs. Additionally, an annual report affords the City the opportunity to review annual changes in ANCs that may threaten their recognized status. If an ANC does not return the requested information, the City may not continue to formally recognize the ANC. If any ANC's annual report is lacking any of the minimum requirements, the City will review, comment, and re-evaluate the recognized status of the ANC.

Accountability
ANCs shall be accountable to the membership of the neighborhood which they represent. They shall be responsible for notifying the membership about meetings, elections, and other events. All meetings of an ANC shall be open to the public. An ANC shall make a good faith effort to seek the views of the people affected by proposed policies and shall consider all proposed options before adopting any final recommendations or actions.

All ANCs shall establish procedures, through the adoption of bylaws, which shall at a minimum provide that the general membership of such commissions have the ability to register support or opposition to any issue, action or proposed action by the City including, but not limited to, holding of a special meeting, if necessary, to address such issue or action. When an ANC presents its official position on an issue, action or proposed action to the City, it shall identify how the general neighborhood membership was contacted, and the vote tally for and against the position asserted by the neighborhood.

1. The ANC shall establish and follow a clear method for reporting to the City actions which accurately reflect the neighborhood’s position. When an ANC presents its official position on an issue to the City, it shall be prepared to identify whether the decision was reached by the Commission, a poll of the general membership, or by a vote at a general membership meeting, and the vote for and against the petition.

2. The consensus view of a dissenting minority or minorities on any issue considered shall be recorded and transmitted along with any recommendations made by an ANC to the City.

Responsibilities of the District of Columbia
1. Provide notice to ANCs regarding all applications received by the Office of Planning where notification guidelines require that notice be posted “on site”, published in the local newspaper or mailed first class. Notification to the ANCs shall be sent via telephone, mail, email, or fax concerning all public hearings associated with the application.

2. Provide notice to ANCs regarding any proposed change to City property which requires public notification, including, but not limited to change in use, sale, bids and/or leases.

3. Respond within ten (10) working days, or a minimum of five (5) days prior to any related public hearing, whichever is sooner, when contacted by an elected officer of an ANC with a request for information regarding any City project.

4. Forward a notice of noncompliance to any ANC failing to comply with any requirements or provisions set forth. ANCs shall have ninety (90) days from the date of the notice to come into compliance with the minimum standards established and provide satisfactory evidence of such compliance to the City. Should an ANC fail to provide such evidence, the City shall remove said ANC from the list of ANCs immediately upon the expiration of the ninety-day review period. Said ANC, under non-recognized status, shall forfeit representation to the City, be removed from all official City mailing lists and will lose the opportunity to receive services rendered to ANCs (ie funding) until such time as said ANC re-activates their recognized status by providing evidence that the minimum standards of ANC recognition established have been satisfied.

5. Provide each ANC with a list of current City departments, their respective department heads, including corresponding telephone numbers and provide such information on the City’s official internet website.

6. Publish a neighborhoods newsletter, at least quarterly, so that each ANC may communicate pertinent information and increase communication between ANCs, their memberships and the City.

7. Create and maintain an updated neighborhood directory, which lists the contact information of the ANC's elected officers.

8. Provide support services to ANCs, including assistance with general communications, newsletters, grant writing, activity planning, public relations, outreach efforts, general information and referral, and other technical assistance.

Now, this is just the beginning. Alot more can be said about the process. However, I wanted to post this to begin or rather continue the conversation of how we move forward. I believe ANC 8C needs to set higher standards for what our community wants, what our community needs, what our community expects, and what we believe our community can achieve.

I realize that not everything printed above will be appealing to everyone, which is fine, but we need to start somewhere. If you're interested in discussing and eventually acting, get at me, I know a few others....Let's do this.

Quick! Take the Money..and RUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-05T03:24:00.001Z

If I could take back the last two hours of my evening I would. Why I continue attending the monthly ANC meeting is beyond me at this point. When I arrived to the UPO Petey Greene Center fliers had been posted stating the ANC Meeting had been postponed until Wednesday, Nov 4th from 6:30-8:30pm. I looked at my watch, today was the 4th, time 6:15...so I was early, not really sure why the fliers said it was postponed, meeting doesn't start til 6:30 anyway.  But, the man at the door informed me the meeting had actually been cancelled....ok, but the sign says, it was "postponed" until 6:30....the man and I exchange confused looks, he shrugs, unlocks the door, and we go inside. Commissioner Ellis arrives to state Commissioner Cuthbert had attempted to cancel tonight's meeting (hence the fliers) because she didn't like the agenda....nice try Cuthbert, but it takes a majority of the Commission to cancel a meeting, and proper notice, none of which had been adhered to.

The meeting started out with a discussion amongst Commissioners and the community. Shocking as it was, it was actually civil. Questions that were asked were being answered and I felt that for once the "commission" (or at least the two members of the commission that bothered to show up) were actually listening. The community was commenting on the auditors report. The auditor has recommended that $24K be withheld from our next allotment of public funds unless the 8C commission responds to their report. The report was issued 9/2 and the commission has until 12/2 to respond. The community was a bit baffled as to why there was not a quorum to resolve this matter at this meeting, since this is the last public meeting prior to 12/2...but according to Commissioner Shelton, that really isn't important because we have more pressing matters to discuss.

Pressing matters like what, Mr. Shelton? I'd say $24K is pretty damn important. Especially since our community could use any bit of free money the city is going to give us. Ward 8 always complains that no one cares about our community, but guess what people, the city is giving us free money...we can use it for what we want (sort of)...And yet, what does 8C do with it? We refuse to respond to a letter in 90 days and we forfeit $24K. How much money has 8C forfeited in the past couple of years due to lack of response? About $30K, give or take a few thousand.

What the hell people? All you have to do is respond. Shoot, I'll type the letter if you need me to. Just meet. Sit down, talk, vote (in a public meeting) and let's move on.

Interestingly enough, myself, as well as some of the other residents, actually think the auditor should withhold the $24K AND take the $35K we have in the bank. Why? Because the commission won't release the funds for use by or for the community. The 8C commission has only used the public funds for office rent. I don't believe there is actually any record of 8C utilizing public funds for the benefit of the community, only for office rent. An office, that hasn't seen the light of day in over a year (maybe two). An office that doesn't have phone or internet hookup. An office we don't use for meetings. I'd be surprised if we paid utilities for the office; electricity, water, heat? Why the hell is the city giving us money for this unused space, year after year?

If the community is not benefiting from the money, stop giving it to our commission.

Deborah Nichols, I beg, PLEASE!!! Take our money and RUN!!!!

I actually have alot more to say on this issue, and don't really want to see the community suffer because of a poorly run commission. We need to discuss a recall, future elections, strategies, etc, but I'm spent after a long evening at Petey Greene, and with no dinner in my system...I'm just can't keep going. But stay tuned, the discussion will continue.

ANC 8C Monthly Mtg Tonight

2009-11-04T16:42:00.001Z

Come one, come all for the spectacular, sure to be entertaining:

ANC 8C Monthly Mtg

Come show your support of William Ellis

6:30 - 8:30 pm

Petey Greene Center
2907 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE

Where's the Beef?

2009-11-04T02:56:00.003Z

So, I really wish NPR had released this article Sunday, prior to me making sloppy joes....because I've spent the last two days in sheer misery. As an avid sufferer of migraines, I was under the delusion that the nausea that I was experiencing was merely a symptom....little did I know, that the beef I had used to make my mighty tasty sloppy joes, was nothing but contaminated....Well, actually I don't really know if it was, since I usually re-package my meat products into single servings (makes it easier to cook for 1 or 2)....and hadn't held onto the manufacturer information, but I can only assume that it was...because, yep you guessed it, I haven't been able to hold down solid foods in quite some time.

Giant, Trader Joes and other area food stores have pulled it from their shelves, but if you bought some beef in the past month or so, you should check your fridge or freezer....otherwise you risk ending up like me...doubled over and in mega-pain. Fyi, I got this meat at the Giant on Alabama Ave...

And for those that were pulled in by the classic tagline, Where's the beef?...I've included this for you...

Let's Cut Our Losses and Remove Cut-Throat Cuthbert

2009-10-30T15:53:00.003Z

Friday, November 6th Commissioner Mary Cuthbert is calling a special meeting to relieve Commissioner William Ellis as Treasurer of ANC 8C. Commissioner Cuthbert is doing so because Commissioner Ellis will not sign rent checks that have not been approved by the Commission at a public meeting. His response is in line with what the DC Auditor recommended after completing an audit of 8C. They are recommending that $24,000 be withheld from 8C due to improper use of funds.

I've included a copy of a letter that Commissioner Ellis (SMD 8c01) is releasing to the community in response to Commissioner Cuthbert's attempt to remove him. Putting aside my differences with Commissioner Ellis, I am in full support of him at this time. Commissioner Cuthbert is out of line, and needs to held accountable. Let's join Ellis and opt to remove Commissioner Cuthbert from the Commission. She does not represent our best interests and has continually failed our community.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
I’m not here to make enemies, but I was [not] elected to make friends either. I was elected to serve my people, my single member district. Dr. Martin Luther King said “Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.” That’s the mentality I have brought to the Commission, one of service.

I have done more for this commission in one year, than what was done from 2006, 2007, and 2008. Don’t take my word for it, read the audit, ask the auditors, ask the Director of the ANC, and ask your constituents. Since I was elected to this commission as of Jan. 2009, I have filed 6 Quarterly Reports, 3 from 2008 that [were] not [filed]. I have been present and documented meeting minutes from all of our 2009 Public Monthly Meetings as well as submitted them in the 2009 Quarterly Reports [filed] by me as treasurer. I have given the Commissioners a detailed 2009 budget, as well as prepared a 2010 budget for their approval. I also have written a 3 page response to the Auditors comments from the 2009 Auditor of ANC 8C. That’s without mentioning the numerous community related activities I have been [a part] of such as, the Savoy Elementary School Revitalization, Barry Farm’s new community, poplar point steering committee, and being a member of the East of the River Community Court Advisory Board.

It is not me that is failing our people! Under Commissioner Cuthbert’s leadership as Chair, she has failed us countless times. In 2004 she forfeited 14,000 dollars of our tax payer’s money by not filing Quarter Reports, money that could have been used to lift up this community. In 2007 she forfeited 5,000, and in 2008 another 5,000 for not filing Quarterly Reports. Up to this very day, she still blatantly disregards the wishes of the Auditor by not answering the Audit Request or wanting to approve a yearly budget. As a result, the audit will take 24,000 for unauthorized rent payments, from our next audit [if] something is not done immediately.

Because of this, I am asking you to ask your commissioners to ask Mary Cuthbert to step down or be removed as Chair of ANC 8C. Her inability to follow the simple laws of the DC Code and recommendations by the DC Audit, has marred the reputation of ANC 8C, and has labeled us a commission that is unfit, untrustworthy, which lacks integrity, and accountability.

By far our most successful meeting was in May 2009 when I brought you a Round table Discussion on the state of DC Schools. I reached out [to] the Representative from the Mayors Office, Chancellors Office, the State School Superintendent, [and] the Assistant Chief of Police Groomes who brought the Director of DC School security. Mary Cuthbert has been trying since the summer to get the Mayor to our ANC Meeting. He refuses to come because of the neglect that she has brought [to] ANC 8C. But every year he comes to the Congress Heights Civic Association. Why is that?

Ladies and gentlemen if you want change, if you are inspired by action, and hard work, if you desire a leader who is committed to transparency, integrity and accountability. Than I am your Servant.

Commissioner William R. Ellis
Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8C
Single Member District 8C-01
(Serving Barry Farm, Sheridan Station, Howard Road, & Talbert St. Residents, as well as Poplar Point)

CapitalSpace Public Meeting Tonight

2009-10-27T13:04:00.002Z

Tuesday, October 27th, 2009

5:30 - 7:30pm

MLK Memorial Library

901 G Street NW

Near Gallery Place/Chinatown and Metro Center Stations

Washington has more public parkland per capita than almost any other densely populated U.S. city--16 acres for every 1,000 residents--offering natural areas, formal parks, and recreation amenities. In total, Washington has approximately 9,300 acres of diverse parks and open space.

Come learn more about the recently released draft CapitalSpace Plan.

Public comments will be accepted through December 8, 2009.

Is That It?

2009-10-26T15:30:00.000Z

Retail in Barry Farm...isn't exactly plentiful. Actually, the only thing we do have is Charlie's Corner Store, located at Wade Rd and Sumner Rd.

The property was bought by Hae Chi Young in 2004, and changed managers at some point (per the sign on the side of the building). Alot of people seem to frequent the store, (or at least flock to stand on its corner) as the intersection is always busy. But regardless--with lots of folk in Barry Farm, lots of new housing being built in Barry Farm, I'm curious why we only have one option. And it's not really an option that I flock to. I eat alot of fresh vegetables and fruits. And unfortunately for me, the local corner store does not provide the kinds of food that I like, in order to support their business.

Now don't get me wrong, I like my neighborhood. But as gentrification and new development rolls in, I want to see the local independent businesses that make my neighborhood unique stay and thrive. I also want to be able to buy a good banana at 6am and 6pm any day of the week. But it would also be nice if people of all incomes and ages can live and eat well in my neighborhood. So my question is, how do we turn Charlie's Corner Store into a healthy corner store? Perhaps we can get the local corner stores (even the liquor stores?) to carry fresh vegetables from the local Ward 8 Farmers Market?

I could see it now, fresh-picked cherries, locally grown sweet corn, exotic mangoes, papayas, plantains and lychees. I'm hungry already.....but without the proper support, this thought, like many that I hold, is just another pipe dream....What do you say Barry Farm? You interested in more than just 99cent chips and bottled soda?

Saturday Festival CANCELLED

2009-10-23T13:14:00.001+01:00

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO RAINY WEATHER FORECASTS.
Saturday, October 24th

9 am -2 pm

Celebrating Our Children Festival

Ward 8 Farmers Market

corner of MLK and Alabama Ave

Music, Face Painting, Moon Bounce

Arts & Crafts

Children's Books

Free Popcorn, Cotton Candy, Cupcakes, & More

WIC--Walk for Free Produce

Free Bicycle Repairs--Sponsored by WABA

Fresh fruits and vegetables provided by farmers in:

Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland

also serving fried fish, hot chocolate, baked goods & more!

Action Packed Evening

2009-10-23T03:15:00.006+01:00

After a successful workout, I came home hoping to have a nice quiet evening. I baked a little salmon (stuffed with spinach and feta)...smashed some potatoes...and settled down to watch Heroes on hulu. But then came the shots. It took me back to 2007 when a bullet came flying through my living room window. I hit the floor in no time...and yes the salmon went down too. It was a strange incident. More shots and then a car crash. I called 911, told them what I heard--and stayed low. My heart was pounding--and since my neighborhood gets a little too real sometimes, I trusted my instincts and didn't move until I heard sirens....

It turns out someone was shot at Anacostia metro and then a van crashed into a house on MLK. Whether the two events are related I'm not sure. Remember the little green house I showed on 'Around my way' last week? It's the one next to it. A vehicle crashed into the person's living room. I'm looking out my bedroom window at the emergency vehicle galore, the mega spotlights...and yea...a van in a house. The police have my street taped off, looks like I'm not going anywhere tonight, and neither are the neighbors on my block. Police are wandering around with flashlights looking for stuff in the grass on my street, yellow tape, firetrucks, police cars, ambulances...and I do believe there is a helicopter in the distance.

I hit up my friend in 7D and got a confirmation that the victim at the metro was found pretty quickly, but I'm not sure if he/she survived. As for the madhouse on MLK--well it looks like thats going to be going on all night. The firetrucks have MLK blocked off, so if you're headed to SE avoid MLK, Howard Rd, Sumner Rd, Eaton Rd, Birney Place, etc...

I'm going to say a prayer and send some good thoughts up for the victim at the metro and for the people in the house. Here's to hoping no innocent bystanders were hurt and that the rest of the night is peaceful...

Rollin' Down the Tracks on the Nine 23s

2009-10-20T13:39:00.010+01:00

Rollin' down the tracks on the nine-twenty-three's, like taking a trip back in history. You enter by the front and you exit to the rear. The operator drives, but he doesn't have to steer. An Uptown view with time to relax, lookin' out the window, rollin' down the tracks. 20,000 people ride 'em every day. A fantastic ride for a small fare to pay. Once they ran by steam, and once by mule. Now electric power is the streetcar's fuel.
-Excerpt from The Saint Charles Streetcar Song

DDOT Meetings on Transit Includes Streetcars

2009-10-16T02:20:00.004+01:00

Series of Open Houses Scheduled in Every Ward;
All of the Open Houses Will Be Held From 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Media Contact: John Lisle (DDOT) at (202) 671-2004

(Washington, DC) — The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is embarking on a public outreach tour to all eight wards of the District to engage residents and businesses in the implementation of improvements proposed for the transit system for the city, including streetcars.

DDOT will be holding a series of open houses beginning later this month to present the findings of the DC’s Transit Future study. DC’s Transit Future studied short-term and long-term surface transit improvements for the District, potentially including additional limited-stop bus services, bus rapid transit (BRT) and streetcar services. The open houses will focus on DDOT’s proposed streetcar network.

DDOT initiated the study in 2004 as a joint effort with the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). It included a comprehensive public outreach program and a multi-corridor Alternatives Analysis that evaluated modes of transportation (bus and streetcar) and an implementation schedule for transit improvements in the District. The Interim reports of the study recommended a number of improvements, many of which DDOT has already implemented, such as bus improvements on Georgia Avenue/7th Street, 16th Street, and the Metrobus 30s Line with the launch of express services.

DDOT has already initiated construction on two streetcar lines, and the open houses will give District residents an opportunity to hear about the current progress and view updated plans for future streetcar lines and other exciting transportation investments across the District.

The dates and locations of the open houses are as follows:

Ward 7:
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Thomas Elementary, 650 Anacostia Avenue, NE

Ward 8:
Monday, November 2, 2009
Savoy Elementary, 2400 Shannon Place, SE

All open houses will begin at 7 pm and end at 8:30 pm. The program for all eight open houses is the same; it will consist of display boards, maps, information about the proposed system, and opportunities for participants to speak individually with and ask questions of project team members.

The open houses are open to the public, and no RSVP is necessary.

Recommendations from the plan have already been implemented as seen in bus improvements on Georgia Avenue/7th Street, 16th Street, and the Metrobus 30s Line.

Now in 2009, with a growing population and employment opportunities and the need for greater economic development for residents in the District, DDOT is revisiting the District’s future transit options, and is looking to engage residents to comment on the recommendations.

For further information, please visit www.ddot.dc.gov/dcstreetcar or contact the project hotline at (703) 682-5060.

The District Department of Transportation [DDOT] is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, its projects, programs, and services on the basis of race, color, national origin, or gender, as provided by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or on the basis of disability as provided by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

If you need special accommodations or language assistance services (translation or interpretation) please contact Circe Torruellas at (202)673-1733 or by email at circe.torruellas@dc.gov in advance of the meeting. These services will be provided free of charge.

Salvation Army Grand Opening

2009-10-14T14:25:00.003+01:00

Thanks to an anonymous commentor...invitations have gone out for the Grand Opening of the Solomon G Brown Community Center for Tuesday, October 22 at 11 am. I won't be able to attend, due to jury duty (yay for me)--so hopefully, one of my fine readers will--and take lots of pictures!

Community Center Still on Lockdown

2009-10-13T01:33:00.007+01:00

The Salvation Army’s new Solomon Brown Community Center in Anacostia was completed earlier this year by WCS Construction. The problem? It's not open yet. And I'm not really sure why. I talked to someone over at WCS and they were not sure of the status, and my phone calls to Salvation Army were unreturned, so I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Rumor has it, however, that Salvation Army ran out of cash, and doesn't have it in the budget to actually operate the building. At one point, someone said it was going to go up for sale. Like I said, rumors....anyone care to confirm?

In the meantime, how bout a sneak peek?

Posted images from WCS and Salvation Army.

Around My Way

2009-10-11T00:34:00.018+01:00

People always tell me they have no idea where Barry Farm is, or what the neighborhood actually looks like, so I thought I'd take you on a walking tour via my blog. Right around the corner from me are these condos (1500 Eaton Road). It's hard to tell from the picture, but this is actually a bright yellow building. I know for a fact, that one of the condos inside, sold for $290,000 March of this year. Surprised aren't you? I was too. The sign out front originally said the units started at $319,000, but shortly after the market crashed, the developer dropped the price. Regardless, the views from this building are outrageously wonderful.

Around the same time that the yellow building was converted to condos, the building next door got a new coat of paint. It stayed rental, due to the market crash--but I don't think anyone can blame the developer for that.

At the corner of Eaton Road and MLK Ave are two vacant buildings. Ever since I bought my property back in 2005, these buildings have been empty. It's always been clear that someone owns them, because the grass is usually cut and the trash is picked up. But who owns them, has remained a mystery until today. Apparently this 3500 sf residential apartment walk up and the building right next to it has been owned by the National Capital Revitalization Corp since 2006. If you're unfamiliar with the NCRC, they are a public development company charged with spurring revitalization in underserved and emerging neighborhoods in DC. While I agree that Barry Farm is an underserved neighborhood, I'm not a huge fan of this entity owning this land and not doing anything with it. How exactly is keeping these buildings boarded up bringing prosperity to our neighborhood?

Directly across the street from these vacancies is a quaint little single family house with a great yard. Add a touch of blue sky, and we're in business.

Matthews Memorial Church has been a prominent landmark in this community for ages (exact founding date is unknown to me, but I've found history on it dating back to the 1930s). MMBC own a fair amount of the property just down the street from the house pictured above. And as we all know they have a planned development along MLK which will break ground later this year. I recently spoke with Senior Pastor Hudson, who apparently reads my blog, (yay!) and am very excited to see this development get underway. I can't wait to have a restaurant/cafe and bookstore within walking distance from my house.

Right around the corner is a series of red brick houses that for the most part, fall into the shadows of the church, except this one. The reason I like it so much? The red brick and iron fence, the lovely garden out front with the flower boxes lining the side. I may not have a green thumb, but I can definately appreciate a nicely landscaped yard when I see one.

Directly across the street is another beauty. It's interesting, but the picture makes it kind of look like we're in the middle of the suburbs, but we're really just minutes from Capitol Hill. I wonder if this neighborhood tour has changed anyone's mind about my community. When you think of Barry Farm in the future--will you still only see rundown projects? Or will you start to picture the same vistas that I see everyday?