I was mentioned in today's Washington Blade article regarding the looming fight on marriage equality in the District of Columbia. A segment of the article follows below:
"Jack Jacobson, a Dupont Circle Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner whose regular job includes lobbying Congress on behalf of environmental and energy issues, said he and others are working with Crawford to put together a plan to line up support on Capitol Hill for D.C.’s right to enact a same-sex marriage law. He said the Human Rights Campaign and other national gay groups have sent representatives to meetings organized by D.C. For Marriage to work on the plan."
Friday, January 30, 2009
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Crime Report 01.27-28.09
Robbery occurred in the 1700 b/o Q St. NW on 1/27/2009 1223am. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 5'8, 220 lbs., wearing a gray hoody approached him from the rear and demanded money. S1 snatched c1's wallet and fled.
Theft occurred in the 1800 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/22/2009 2- 3am. Citizen reports the suspect, a female, 5'6, nothing further, stole a wallet containing debit cards from a table where it was left unattended.
Theft occurred in the 2000 b/o L St. NW on 1/27/2009 6- 7pm. Citizen reports a purse containing wallet, cards, cell phone and camera was stolen from unlocked gym locker.
Theft occurred in the 1900 b/o Pennsylvania Ave. NW on 1/26/2009 145- 215pm. Citizen reports a wallet with cash and card key was stolen from his coat pocket when left unattended.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o 19th St. NW between 1/27/2009 6pm- 1/28/2009 8am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '03 BMW 3301 bearing Penn. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a IPOD stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 2000 b/o L St. NW on 1/28/2009 8am- 415pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '04 Toyota RAV4 bearing DC tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and cash and ID cards stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o P St. NW between 1/23/2009 10am- 1/26/2009 9am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '03 Toyota COROLLA bearing Mich. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and cash was stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1400 b/o 22nd St. NW between 1/26/2009 8pm- 1/27/2009 740am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '95 Jeep CHEROKEE bearing Penn. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a DVD player stolen.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Crime Report 01.23-26.09
Robbery occurred in the 1700 b/o Florida Ave. NW on 1/24/2009 1145pm. Citizen reports 3 suspects entered and s1 displayed a weapon and demanded cash. C2 complied and the suspects, 3 black males, fled out the rear door.
Robbery occurred in the 1600 b/o 19th St. NW on 1/24/2009 245am. Citizen reports 3 black males, all 5'10- 6', 160- 170 lbs., dark complexion, assaulted him and stole his briefcase, cell phone and camera.
Burglary occurred in the 2200 b/o R St. NW on 1/24/2009 250pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, medium complexion, was observed prying the rear door to a residence and fled on a green mountain bike when he observed the witness watching him.
Theft occurred in the 1000 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/23/2009 1030am. Citizen reports the suspects, 2 black males, 5'9, 170- 180 lbs. entered the store and stole to cell phones from the display rack.
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/24/2009 120pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 5', 140 lbs., with dreads hairstyle stole a cell phone from the display rack and fled.
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/24/2009 830pm. Citizen reports the suspects, no description given, stole clothing from the display rack and struck C1 in the face when he attempted to stop them.
Theft of a Bicycle occurred in the 1800 b/o M St. NW on 1/23/2009 between 210- 4pm. Citizen reports the bike, a `COLUMBIA' mountain bike, blue in color, was stolen from where it was parked on sidewalk.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1500 b/o 18th St. NW between 1/22/2009 8pm- 1/23/2009 7am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '07 Jeep SUV bearing Md. tags was entered by smashing the vent window and a baclpack, keys, checks and a laptop computer stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1300 b/o 18th St. NW between 1/23/2009 6pm- 1/24/2009 2am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '03 BMW 252I bearing Va. tags was entered by smashing the front window and a GPS stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1600 b/o O St. NW between 1/23/2009 430pm- 1/24/2009 11am. Citizen reports the vehicle, '01 Ford EXPLORER bearing Va. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a GPS stand and charger stolen.
Stolen Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o M St. NW between 1/23/2009 11pm-1/24/2009 1215am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '00 Dodge STRATUS, 4 door, white in color bearing Florida tags was stolen from where it was parked.
Monday, January 26, 2009
17th Street Liquor Moratorium Meeting Confirmed
The Dupont Circle ANC is hosting a community meeting to accept testimony and comments on the 17th Street "Dupont East" liquor moratorium on Monday, February 2, from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at Foundry United Methodist Church, located at 1500 16th Street, NW.
The ANC has invited the community, along with stakeholder organizations including the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets, and Dupont Circle Merchants and Professionals, to provide statements and/or comments on the current liquor moratorium, which is set to expire at the end of March.
In order to accommodate all attendees expected, stakeholder organizations will be limited to 5 minutes of testimony each. Individual statements are limited to 2 minutes each. There may be brief Q&A time to clarify testimony if required. More extensive written statements may be submitted to the ad hoc committee's Chairman, Jack Jacobson, by emailing him at jack.jacobson@dupontcircleanc.net. Please include your full name and address, or your business name and address, when submitting written testimony to be made part of the record. The record will be held open until the beginning of the ANC's next monthly meeting, on Wednesday, February 11.
The ANC has invited the community, along with stakeholder organizations including the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets, and Dupont Circle Merchants and Professionals, to provide statements and/or comments on the current liquor moratorium, which is set to expire at the end of March.
In order to accommodate all attendees expected, stakeholder organizations will be limited to 5 minutes of testimony each. Individual statements are limited to 2 minutes each. There may be brief Q&A time to clarify testimony if required. More extensive written statements may be submitted to the ad hoc committee's Chairman, Jack Jacobson, by emailing him at jack.jacobson@dupontcircleanc.net. Please include your full name and address, or your business name and address, when submitting written testimony to be made part of the record. The record will be held open until the beginning of the ANC's next monthly meeting, on Wednesday, February 11.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
January 2009 Newsletter
Below is my January 2009 newsletter. I'll be emailing it to constituents' whose email addresses I have tomorrow. To receive the letter via email, email me your name & address at jack@friendsofjack.com.
The Inauguration of President Barack Obama (I love saying that) brought new and difficult challenges to the city, both in terms of overall public safety, and in moving over 1.8 million people to the Mall and back out of the city again.
I am amazed at the enormous efforts that went into making sure people were able to travel safely and swiftly, and I commend Metro, the Department of Transportation, and the Metropolitan Police Department on a job well done.
ANC REFORM PAPER INTRODUCED
One of my goals as a Commissioner is to make the ANC more closely connected to the neighborhood and to allow more transparency and openness in our activities on behalf of Dupont Circle.
To that end, Commissioner Will Stephens and I have drafted a comprehensive ANC reform paper, with recommendations to enable residents to better recognize the role the ANC plays in neighborhood development, and to allow more community input in our decisions.
We hope to institute many of our proposed reforms over the coming months, including making all of our resolutions available online, and making our budgets and expenditures available online. Email me at jack@friendsofjack.com to request a copy of the paper.
17TH STREET LIQUOR MORATORIUM REVIEW
There is currently a moratorium on issuing any new liquor licenses along 17th Street, meaning no new bars, restaurants, night clubs or liquor stores are allowed along the street.
The moratorium expires at the end of March, and the ANC is investigating whether or not to extend it, and if so, if and how it should be amended. I’m the lead Commissioner on the issue.
If you or your neighbors would like to provide input on the moratorium, please email me at jack.jacobson@dupontcircleanc.net, including your name and address, or attend the Feb. 2 meeting (right).
17TH STREET LOADING ZONE PILOT PROJECT
A major public safety issue in our neighborhood continues to be the double parking of delivery vehicles serving the businesses along 17th Street, particularly during morning hours.
On December 18, ANC representatives met with DDOT, MPD, the Dept. of Public Works (DPW) and business owners to explore the possibility of instituting a pilot project to eliminate unused or underused loading zones and adjust metered parking hours.
The 3-month pilot project was suggested by Commissioner Bob Meehan, and was approved by the ANC at our January meeting. We’ll be monitoring the success of the project and will work with DDOT, MPD, DPW and the neighborhood to refine it as necessary.
S STREET SIDEWALK REPAIR
You may have noticed the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) doing quite a bit of work on S Street earlier this month. DDOT has been hard at work for the past 4-6 weeks conducting brick sidewalk repair along S and T streets, NW.
S Street was fortunate enough to have some major brick repair and replacement work done, rendering the sidewalks much more visually appealing (see photo below) and, more importantly, safer for folks to walk on.
Unfortunately, DDOT did not inform the neighborhood prior to the work commencing. The ANC spoke to DDOT about keeping the neighborhood informed of projects like this, and we’re hopeful that when 17th Street is rennovated, DDOT will inform the neighborhood and work more closely with us to avoid problems.
ANC OFFICERS
At its regular meeting on January 14, the ANC elected a new slate of officers. I was humbled to be elected as Treasurer of the ANC. The full slate of officers includes:
* Mike Silverstein, Chairman
* Will Stephens, Vice Chairman
* Jack Jacobson, Treasurer
* Phil Carney, Secretary
In addition, our former Chairman, Ramon Estrada, was recognized as Chairman Emaritus.
The ANC has an annual budget of around $25,000, which the ANC spends on things like our executive director’s salary, legal fees for zoning and other attorney fees, and our web site.
I plan to do all of the bookwork myself now, saving the ANC over $4,000 annually, which we had previously spent on a bookkeeper. Some of that savings will go towards making our web site more functional, per the previous article.
The Inauguration of President Barack Obama (I love saying that) brought new and difficult challenges to the city, both in terms of overall public safety, and in moving over 1.8 million people to the Mall and back out of the city again.
I am amazed at the enormous efforts that went into making sure people were able to travel safely and swiftly, and I commend Metro, the Department of Transportation, and the Metropolitan Police Department on a job well done.
ANC REFORM PAPER INTRODUCED
One of my goals as a Commissioner is to make the ANC more closely connected to the neighborhood and to allow more transparency and openness in our activities on behalf of Dupont Circle.
To that end, Commissioner Will Stephens and I have drafted a comprehensive ANC reform paper, with recommendations to enable residents to better recognize the role the ANC plays in neighborhood development, and to allow more community input in our decisions.
We hope to institute many of our proposed reforms over the coming months, including making all of our resolutions available online, and making our budgets and expenditures available online. Email me at jack@friendsofjack.com to request a copy of the paper.
17TH STREET LIQUOR MORATORIUM REVIEW
There is currently a moratorium on issuing any new liquor licenses along 17th Street, meaning no new bars, restaurants, night clubs or liquor stores are allowed along the street.
The moratorium expires at the end of March, and the ANC is investigating whether or not to extend it, and if so, if and how it should be amended. I’m the lead Commissioner on the issue.
If you or your neighbors would like to provide input on the moratorium, please email me at jack.jacobson@dupontcircleanc.net, including your name and address, or attend the Feb. 2 meeting (right).
17TH STREET LOADING ZONE PILOT PROJECT
A major public safety issue in our neighborhood continues to be the double parking of delivery vehicles serving the businesses along 17th Street, particularly during morning hours.
On December 18, ANC representatives met with DDOT, MPD, the Dept. of Public Works (DPW) and business owners to explore the possibility of instituting a pilot project to eliminate unused or underused loading zones and adjust metered parking hours.
The 3-month pilot project was suggested by Commissioner Bob Meehan, and was approved by the ANC at our January meeting. We’ll be monitoring the success of the project and will work with DDOT, MPD, DPW and the neighborhood to refine it as necessary.
S STREET SIDEWALK REPAIR
You may have noticed the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) doing quite a bit of work on S Street earlier this month. DDOT has been hard at work for the past 4-6 weeks conducting brick sidewalk repair along S and T streets, NW.
S Street was fortunate enough to have some major brick repair and replacement work done, rendering the sidewalks much more visually appealing (see photo below) and, more importantly, safer for folks to walk on.
Unfortunately, DDOT did not inform the neighborhood prior to the work commencing. The ANC spoke to DDOT about keeping the neighborhood informed of projects like this, and we’re hopeful that when 17th Street is rennovated, DDOT will inform the neighborhood and work more closely with us to avoid problems.
ANC OFFICERS
At its regular meeting on January 14, the ANC elected a new slate of officers. I was humbled to be elected as Treasurer of the ANC. The full slate of officers includes:
* Mike Silverstein, Chairman
* Will Stephens, Vice Chairman
* Jack Jacobson, Treasurer
* Phil Carney, Secretary
In addition, our former Chairman, Ramon Estrada, was recognized as Chairman Emaritus.
The ANC has an annual budget of around $25,000, which the ANC spends on things like our executive director’s salary, legal fees for zoning and other attorney fees, and our web site.
I plan to do all of the bookwork myself now, saving the ANC over $4,000 annually, which we had previously spent on a bookkeeper. Some of that savings will go towards making our web site more functional, per the previous article.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Crime Report 01.20-21.09
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o P St. NW on 1/19/2009 5- 6pm. Citizen reports a "HYBID' bike and a " CANNONDALE" bike were stolen when left secured to a bike rack.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1600 b/o O ST. NW on 1/19/2009 730- 1130 pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, no description given, was entered through an unlocked door and property was stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1600 b/o T St. NW on 1/20/2009 210pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '07 Mercedes ML350 bearing DC tags was entered through an unlocked door and a GPS was stolen.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Crime Report 01.16.09
Robbery occurred in the 2000 b/o Florida Ave. NW on 1/16/2009 12pm. Citizen reports 2 suspects entered the store, s1 displayed a handgun and demanded cash. Citizen complied and suspects obtained cash and bottles of alcohol. S1 black male, 6'3, 185 lbs., medium complexion, and S2 black male, 6', 185 lbs., light complexion.
Theft occurred in the 1700 b/o Corcoran St. NW on 1/16/2009 315pm. Citizen reports the suspect, no description given, was observed concealing facial creams in his pocket. When S1 was confronted by clerk, he dropped the property and fled north on 17th St. NW.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1500 b/o Church St. NW on 1/16/2009 6- 910pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '06 Honda ELEMENT bearing DC tags was entered by smashing the drivers window and a GPS, cellphone, IPOD and cash stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1600 b/o O St. NW between 1/12/2009 6pm- 1/16/2009 615am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '03 Jeep SUV bearing DC tags was entered by smashing the rear vent window and cash was stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1600 b/o O St. NW between 1/15/2009 930pm- 1/16/2009 7am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '99 Saab 95 bearing Ill. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and cash and assorted mens clothing stolen.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Argus Leader: S. Dakotans get an early start
I wanted to post another article I was excited to be quoted in, following last night's South Dakota State Society Inaugural Reception. It was amazing, and I feel so fortunate to have been a part of it.
Excerpts below:
"There was more partying than politics Monday night when hundreds of South Dakotans and their friends gathered at the historic James Monroe house to cheer Barack Obama's impending inauguration as 44th president of the United States.
"Tickets to the event were in such high demand that the event's sponsor - the nonpartisan South Dakota State Society - cut off sales at 500 tickets, said the group's Vice President Jack Jacobson, formerly of Tea.
"'Three months ago, we were anticipating 150 people, 200 on the high side," said Jacobson, a government relations lobbyist. "We're ecstatic at the turnout."
"The South Dakota State Society is a social organization for people who were born, raised or lived in the Mount Rushmore State at some point in their lives but who now live in the Washington area. The group reformed a year ago after being in hibernation about 20 years, Jacobson said."
Excerpts below:
"There was more partying than politics Monday night when hundreds of South Dakotans and their friends gathered at the historic James Monroe house to cheer Barack Obama's impending inauguration as 44th president of the United States.
"Tickets to the event were in such high demand that the event's sponsor - the nonpartisan South Dakota State Society - cut off sales at 500 tickets, said the group's Vice President Jack Jacobson, formerly of Tea.
"'Three months ago, we were anticipating 150 people, 200 on the high side," said Jacobson, a government relations lobbyist. "We're ecstatic at the turnout."
"The South Dakota State Society is a social organization for people who were born, raised or lived in the Mount Rushmore State at some point in their lives but who now live in the Washington area. The group reformed a year ago after being in hibernation about 20 years, Jacobson said."
Friday, January 16, 2009
Crime Report 01.15.09
Burglary attempt occurred in the 1700 b/o Swann St. NW on 1/15/2009 3pm. Citizen reports he observed the suspect, a male, medium complexion, hanging from the roof attempting to enter an open bedroom window. S1 pulled himself up to the roof and fled.
Theft occurred in the 1100 b/o 17th St. NW on 1/14/2009 1245-115pm. Citizen reports the office was entered in an unknown manner and a laptop computer and briefcase stolen.
Theft occurred in the 1100 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/15/2009 237pm. Citizen reports the suspect, black male, 18 yoa, 6'2, 185 lbs., concealed property and attempted to leave the store, CASE CLOSED with the arrest of the suspect.
Theft occurred in the 1900 b/o K St. NW on 1/15/2009 710am. Citizen reports the office was entered in an unknown manner and a monitor and computer hard drive stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1300 b/o 23rd St. NW between 1/14/2009 1135- 1/15/2009 2am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '04 Infiniti G35 bearing Md. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a GPS, wallet and cash stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1500 b/o New Hampshire Ave. NW between 1/14/2009 10pm- 1/15/2009 150am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '07 Saturn ION bearing Va. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and cash, clothing and IPOD stolen.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Crime Report 01.13-14.09
Theft occurred in the 1700 b/o L St. NW on 1/3/2009 1248pm. Citizen reports unknown suspect stole a camera from the store in unknown manner.
Theft occurred in the 1900 b/o M St. NW on 1/13/2009 110-3pm. Citizen reports credit cards were stolen from his wallet when he left his coat hanging on the back of a chair unattended.
Theft occurred in the 1900 b/o M St. NW on 1/13/2009 110-3pm. Citizen reports credit cards were stolen from his wallet when he left his coat hanging on the back of a chair unattended.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Crime Report 01.12.09
Robbery occurred in the 1400 b/o U St. NW on 1/10/2009 4am. Citizen reports while making a purchase at gas station, 2 suspects approached, S1 displayed a handgun and demanded C1's property. C1 turned over cash and cellphone, and the suspects, black males, 5'9 and 5'6 fled.
Robbery occurred in the 1700 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/12/2009 943pm. Citizen reports the suspect snatched the IPhone off the table and fled. Suspect is a black male, 5'9, 150 lbs., dreadlock hairstyle.
Burglary occurred in the 1100 b/o 19th St. NW between 12/28/2008 6pm-1/2/2009 7am. Citizen reports the office was entered and 2 laptop computers stolen in an unknown manner.
Burglary occurred in the 2100 b/o M St. NW on 12/31/2008 320am. Citizen reports an alarm was triggered for the office and S1 was observed leaving the building carrying property. The suspect was stopped and CASE CLOSED with the arrest of the suspect.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 2200 b/o Decatur Pl. NW between 1/11/2009 5pm- 1/12/20098am. Citizen reports the vehicle, '03 Mercedes 4 door bearing DC tags was entered by smashing the drivers window and assorted clothing and shoes stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1900 b/o R St. NW between 1/1100/2009 1145pm- 1/12/2009 112am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '97 Ford F150 truck bearing VA. tags was entered in by smashing the passenger window and a GPS was stolen.
Crime Report 01.09-11.09
Robbery occurred in the 2000 b/o Florida Ave. NW on 1/9/2009 720pm. Citizen reports 3 suspects, all black males, 6'4, 160-170 lbs. wearing dark clothing entered the salon, s-1 displayed a handgun and robbed the establishment of cash and merchandise. Suspects fled in an unknown direction.
Robbery occurred in the 1500 b/o Church St. NW on 1/10/2009 1054pm. Citizen reports while walking two suspects appeared from behind the bushes and S1 displayed a handgun. C1 was assaulted and robbed of cash by two black males, 6', no further description.
Robbery occurred in the 800 b/o 17th St. NW on 1/11/2009 936pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a white male, 5'11, 200 lbs., pulled a handgun and robbed her of cash inside her hotel room.
Robbery occurred in the 1300 b/o 19th St. NW on 1/10/2009 659pm. Citizen reports the suspect snatched her purse and fled. Witnesses chased and caught the suspect, a black male, 18 yoa, 6'3, 145 lbs. and CASE CLOSED with the arrest of the suspect.
Theft occurred in the 1300 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/9/2009 455pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 6'1, dark complexion, stole 2- cellphones from the display and fled north on Conn. Ave. NW.
Theft occurred in the 1700 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW between 1/9/2009 9pm- 1/10/2009 1am. Citizen reports her purse was entered and a wallet and credit cards stolen while inside a restaurant.
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/10/2009 715pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 5'9, dark complex. stole clothing from the store and fled south on Conn. Ave. NW.
Theft occurred in the 1000 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/9/2009 645pm. Citizen reports her purse containing id's and credit cards wwas stolen from her office in an unknown manner.
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o 22nd St. NW on 1/9/2009 315am. Citizen reports a flag was stolen from the flagpole in front of the embassy. The suspect is a while male, 5'8- 6', 160-175 lbs.
Theft occurred in the 1700 b/o 22nd St. NW between 1/8/2009 9am- 1/9/2009 8am. Citizen reports a flag was stolen from the flagpole in front of the embassy. No lookout for suspect in this case.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 2200 b/o Q St. NW between 1/8/2009 4pm- 1/9/2009 855am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '01 Jeep SUV bearing Va. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and GPS and sunglasses stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 900 b/o 17th St. NW on 1/9/2009 1- 4am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '04 Mercedes bearing Va. tags was entered in an unknown manner and a purse and credit cards stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 900 b/o 17th St. NW between 1/9/2009 11pm- 1/10/2009 1220am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '04 Nissan SUV bearing Va. tags was entered in an unknown manner and a purse with checkbook and credit cards stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o Massachusetts Ave. NW between 1/10/2009 10pm- 1/11/2009 10am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '99 Toyota bearing Ca. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a laptop computer was stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1800 b/o 19th St. NW between 1/9/2009 530pm- 1/10/2009 1130am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '07 Chevy bearing Md. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a IPOD and cellphone earpiece stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o N St. NW between 1/9/2009 11pm- 1/10/2009 230am. Citizen reports the vehicle, no description given, was entered by smashing the passenger window and a purse, credit cards and keys stolen.
Stolen Auto Attempt occurred in the 1600 b/o Swann St. NW between 1/7/2009 7am- 1/9/2009 7pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '97 Honda ACCORD, green, 4 door bearing DC tags had the passenger door forced open and the ignition punched in a unsuccessful attempt to steal the vehicle.
Robbery occurred in the 1500 b/o Church St. NW on 1/10/2009 1054pm. Citizen reports while walking two suspects appeared from behind the bushes and S1 displayed a handgun. C1 was assaulted and robbed of cash by two black males, 6', no further description.
Robbery occurred in the 800 b/o 17th St. NW on 1/11/2009 936pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a white male, 5'11, 200 lbs., pulled a handgun and robbed her of cash inside her hotel room.
Robbery occurred in the 1300 b/o 19th St. NW on 1/10/2009 659pm. Citizen reports the suspect snatched her purse and fled. Witnesses chased and caught the suspect, a black male, 18 yoa, 6'3, 145 lbs. and CASE CLOSED with the arrest of the suspect.
Theft occurred in the 1300 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/9/2009 455pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 6'1, dark complexion, stole 2- cellphones from the display and fled north on Conn. Ave. NW.
Theft occurred in the 1700 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW between 1/9/2009 9pm- 1/10/2009 1am. Citizen reports her purse was entered and a wallet and credit cards stolen while inside a restaurant.
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/10/2009 715pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 5'9, dark complex. stole clothing from the store and fled south on Conn. Ave. NW.
Theft occurred in the 1000 b/o Connecticut Ave. NW on 1/9/2009 645pm. Citizen reports her purse containing id's and credit cards wwas stolen from her office in an unknown manner.
Theft occurred in the 1600 b/o 22nd St. NW on 1/9/2009 315am. Citizen reports a flag was stolen from the flagpole in front of the embassy. The suspect is a while male, 5'8- 6', 160-175 lbs.
Theft occurred in the 1700 b/o 22nd St. NW between 1/8/2009 9am- 1/9/2009 8am. Citizen reports a flag was stolen from the flagpole in front of the embassy. No lookout for suspect in this case.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 2200 b/o Q St. NW between 1/8/2009 4pm- 1/9/2009 855am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '01 Jeep SUV bearing Va. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and GPS and sunglasses stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 900 b/o 17th St. NW on 1/9/2009 1- 4am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '04 Mercedes bearing Va. tags was entered in an unknown manner and a purse and credit cards stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 900 b/o 17th St. NW between 1/9/2009 11pm- 1/10/2009 1220am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '04 Nissan SUV bearing Va. tags was entered in an unknown manner and a purse with checkbook and credit cards stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o Massachusetts Ave. NW between 1/10/2009 10pm- 1/11/2009 10am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '99 Toyota bearing Ca. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a laptop computer was stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1800 b/o 19th St. NW between 1/9/2009 530pm- 1/10/2009 1130am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '07 Chevy bearing Md. tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a IPOD and cellphone earpiece stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1700 b/o N St. NW between 1/9/2009 11pm- 1/10/2009 230am. Citizen reports the vehicle, no description given, was entered by smashing the passenger window and a purse, credit cards and keys stolen.
Stolen Auto Attempt occurred in the 1600 b/o Swann St. NW between 1/7/2009 7am- 1/9/2009 7pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '97 Honda ACCORD, green, 4 door bearing DC tags had the passenger door forced open and the ignition punched in a unsuccessful attempt to steal the vehicle.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Jan. 14: Revised ANC Agenda
In discussing pending neighborhood issues with my fellow commissioners, we realized there are a couple of issues we neglected to include on the original agenda. Please see a revised agenda below.
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2B
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, January 14, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
DC Jewish Community Center, 16th at Q Streets NW
Call to Order and Introduction of Commissioners
Public Testimony and Announcements (2 minutes per person; 10 minutes total)
Public Safety
General
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2B
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, January 14, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
DC Jewish Community Center, 16th at Q Streets NW
Call to Order and Introduction of Commissioners
Public Testimony and Announcements (2 minutes per person; 10 minutes total)
Public Safety
General
- Election of ANC 2B Officers
- Presentation and consideration of request for legal fee support by Kalorama Citizens Association President Denis James & Architect Volker Zinser on appeal of Hilton zoning issues
- Resolution in support of extending Metro hours during inaugural weekend
- Resolution in support of Council legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia
- Resolution in support of D.C. tax credits for purchase of trash compactors
- Resolution in support of Congressional legislation to provide for elected chief prosecutor in the District of Columbia
- Presentation by DDOT on proposal to eliminate rush hour restrictions and increase commercial loading zones on 17th Street NW
Regulatory
- Preliminary Discussion of the upcoming renewal of the East Dupont Moratorium
- Discussion of Inauguration modifications by ABRA
- Request to modify existing permit to add 3 additional parking in public spaces. 1901 R Street NW (2B01)
- Request for approval of stipulated CR/Restaurant license for E&CEyeStreetLLC t/a Elephant and Castle. 900 19th Street NW and Sidewalk Cafe. Sidewalk cafe till midnight. Restaurant max hours, but plans earlier closing. (2B06)
- Review of HPRB Concept Plans for 1524 18th Street NW
Administrative Matters, Commissioner and Committee Reports, and Unfinished/New Business
- Discussion of Commission reform working paper
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Argus Leader: Sharing Historic Moment
A mini-essay I wrote on the Inauguration appeared in the Sioux Falls Argus Leader yesterday. Below is the essay. I thought some may find it interesting:
Sharing historic moment
There is a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement in Washington over the election of President-elect Barack Obama and his pending inauguration. All around the city, one can see signs that something big is on the horizon. Parade viewing stands are going up, city employees are working on beautifying our nation's capital, and folks are making plans for the big day.
The South Dakota State Society is finalizing a reception the evening prior to the big event. Rather than compete with all of the elaborate balls and dinners, the society is hosting a gathering of South Dakotans and friends of South Dakota who are visiting the city for the inauguration. We're finalizing the menu, confirming the music and preparing for a great evening together.
But most of all, we here in D.C. are looking forward to sharing this historic moment with the rest of the country and the world. The city will be bursting at the seams with visitors, but we'll be ready and can't wait to celebrate the occasion with everyone and showcase all that the city has to offer.
Jack Jacobson, 31, is originally from Tea, graduating from Lennox High School in 1996 and from Augustana College in 2000. He has lived in Washington, D.C., for nine years, where he works as a government relations executive with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. He also serves as vice president of the South Dakota State Society, a nonprofit organization that brings South Dakotans and friends of South Dakota together in Washington, D.C.
Sharing historic moment
There is a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement in Washington over the election of President-elect Barack Obama and his pending inauguration. All around the city, one can see signs that something big is on the horizon. Parade viewing stands are going up, city employees are working on beautifying our nation's capital, and folks are making plans for the big day.
The South Dakota State Society is finalizing a reception the evening prior to the big event. Rather than compete with all of the elaborate balls and dinners, the society is hosting a gathering of South Dakotans and friends of South Dakota who are visiting the city for the inauguration. We're finalizing the menu, confirming the music and preparing for a great evening together.
But most of all, we here in D.C. are looking forward to sharing this historic moment with the rest of the country and the world. The city will be bursting at the seams with visitors, but we'll be ready and can't wait to celebrate the occasion with everyone and showcase all that the city has to offer.
Jack Jacobson, 31, is originally from Tea, graduating from Lennox High School in 1996 and from Augustana College in 2000. He has lived in Washington, D.C., for nine years, where he works as a government relations executive with Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. He also serves as vice president of the South Dakota State Society, a nonprofit organization that brings South Dakotans and friends of South Dakota together in Washington, D.C.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Green Door Wish List for January 2009
Green Door prepares women and men with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses to work and live in the Washington, D.C. community. For information, visit us at www.greendoor.org.
We accept fully functioning, gently used, and new items. Please contact Megan Butler at Megan.Butler@greendoor.org or 202-408-1977 x2 before donating.
We are in desperate need of a Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer for the Clubhouse Training Kitchen because the current refrigerator and freezer have been breaking down daily.
Volunteer Opportunities
We are looking for Guest Chefs/Servers and Speakers for our monthly Education and Employment dinners. Please contact Ashawnda Fleming at 202-408-1977 x1 or Ashawnda.fleming@greendoor.org for more information.
Have you always wanted to see what’s behind the Green Door? Come take a one-hour tour of our Clubhouse which is changing the way people with mental illness recover, live, and work in the community. You are welcome to bring a friend (s). Please RSVP with Ashawnda Fleming at 202-408-1977.
Jan. 8 @ 8:30am
Jan. 28 @ 11:30am
Feb. 11@ 11:30am
Smartrip cards and Metro cards for members without income to get to their doctors, jobs, or school. Please send all metro card donations to the attention of the Development Office @ the address listed below.
Toiletries, especially toothpaste, for our men’s and women’s emergency closets.
We are accepting dry cleaned winter coats (full length coats) for men (all sizes) and women (size large and up). On hangers, in a plastic container, or neatly folded in a closed plastic bag. No paper bags or open containers, please.
The Research and Education unit in the Clubhouse really needs a vacuum cleaner to keep their unit in tip top shape.
Bertha had to throw her mattress away due to bed bugs and she really needs a queen sized bed (mattress, box spring, and frame) to replace her old one.
Richard needs a queen sized bed (mattress, box spring, and frame) because he does not have enough money to afford a bed. He has been having issues with his knees for several years and he said that recently the bed has been making his knees worse.
Michael is on a diet to better his health conditions. He would really appreciate a microwave so he can cook his healthy choice meals.
Freedom has a limited income and is working on his self esteem. He needs shirts (size Large) and pants (size 38).
Keith does not know how to cook and needs a microwave in order to eat his dinners and lunch.
Michael needs a microwave and a twin size bed (mattress, box spring, and frame) to make his home complete.
Laurie would really appreciate a DVD player as well as DVD’s (Audrey Hepburn, Cary Grant, Gene Kelly, and action/suspense genres). Going to the movies was one of Laurie’s favorite weekend pastimes but since she is homebound after a recent fall she would love to be able to watch movies to help her pass the days until she can return to the Clubhouse.
The Intake and Orientation Unit would like to give welcome gift bags to those who successfully complete the orientation period at the Clubhouse. We are looking for any small toiletry items/grooming kit such as soaps, shampoos, shavers, and Chap Stick or pocket calendars, diaries, key chains, t-shirts, pencils, and tote bags.
Shirley is on a fixed income and needs a set of sheets (full size) and a blanket (full size).
Teshika has recently moved into her own apartment and is in need of a microwave and sleeper sofa (full size bed) so she has somewhere to sleep that doubles as seating for company. She could also use a small dinette set with 2 chairs.
Frank just signed his lease for a new apartment and has no furniture. He really needs dishes, towels, bedding, full size bed (bed frame, box spring, and mattress), dresser, lamps, couch, TV, entertainment center, towels, and linens (full size).
Donna is homeless and is in dire need of bras (size 38D or 40D), underwear (size 9), socks (size 9), long johns (size X-large or 1X), pants (size 18-20), blouse or shirts (size 16, X-large, or 1X), half slip or whole slip (size 1X or 2X), bathrobe (size X or 2X). These clothing items will help her get through the winter. She would like a clock radio, heating pad, small grocery cart, and sheets (twin size) for the small living space that she has at the local shelter.
Gary is in a GED program and would really benefit from having a printer.
Vera is in need of a bedroom set (any size), dinning room set, dressers, towels, sheets, and a T.V. She is very unhappy with her residence and these items would help her symptoms of depression.
Jose has recently moved into an apartment and is in need of any size bed (mattress, box spring, and bed frame). He also needs a love seat, dishes, silverware, pots/pans, sheets, and blankets. Having his place together with furniture and the necessities needed would help with his feelings and symptoms of depression.
Annette is disabled and is in constant financial hardship taking care of her six kids. She needs sheets (king size), vacuum, and a microwave.
Fred would like a DVD player (preferably portable) so that he can watch movies in his room to prevent arguments with his roommates.
Robert would like shelves and bookcases to allow him to better organize his apartment. He is currently handicapped and not having things organized makes it difficult for him to move around.
Francine has been in recovery and has obtained an apartment. She needs a vacuum cleaner to help her properly care and clean her carpet.
Gary needs sheets/blankets (twin size) and a TV. He also needs pots/pans and dishes so he can learn to cook and budget his money properly.
Jacqueline needs a microwave, pots/pans, silverware, and dishes so she can prepare and cook her food properly so she is not spending money eating out. She would also like a couch so that she can have her house feel comfortable.
Grace is a long time member of the clubhouse and is in need of a queen size bed (mattress, box spring, and frame), dresser, and night stand. This will make her home feel complete.
Jan. 14 ANC Meeting
ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2B
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, January 14, 2009, 7:00 p.m.
DC Jewish Community Center, 16th at Q Streets NW
Call to Order and Introduction of Commissioners
Public Testimony and Announcements (2 minutes per person; 10 minutes total)
Public Safety
General
- Election of ANC 2B Officers
- Presentation and consideration of request for legal fee support by Kalorama Citizens Association President Denis James & Architect Volker Zinser on appeal of Hilton zoning issues
- Resolution in support of extending Metro hours during inaugural weekend
- Resolution in support of Council legislation legalizing same-sex marriage in the District of Columbia
- Resolution in support of D.C. tax credits for purchase of trash compactors
- Resolution in support of Congressional legislation to provide for elected chief prosecutor in the District of Columbia
- Presentation by DDOT on proposal to eliminate rush hour restrictions and increase commercial loading zones on 17th Street NW
Regulatory
- Request to modify existing permit to add 3 additional parking in public spaces. 1901 R Street NW (2B01)
- Request for approval of stipulated CR/Restaurant license forE&CEyeStreetLLC t/a Elephant and Castle. 900 19th Street NW and Sidewalk Cafe. Sidewalk cafe till midnight. Restaurant max hours, but plans earlier closing. (2B06)
- Review of HPRB Concept Plans for 1524 18th Street NW
Administrative Matters, Commissioner and Committee Reports, and Unfinished/New Business
- Discussion of Commission reform working paper
Crime Report 01.08.09
Robbery occurred in the 1500 b/o Corcoran St. NW on 1/4/2009 11pm. Citizen reports the suspect, a black male, 5'6, 150 lbs, medium complex, snatched her purse containing cash and cellphone as she was trying to enter her residence. Suspect fled north on 15th St. NW.
Robbery occurred in the 2200 b/o P St. NW on 1/2/2009 1230am. Citizen reports the suspect, a white male, 5'10, 230 lbs., bald head approached the citizen and demanded money. C1 gave the suspect his wallet and cellphone and suspect fled east on P St. NW.
Burglary occurred in the 1700 b/o T St. NW between 1/1/2009 10am- 1/8/2009 10pm. Citizen reports the suspect entered the residence with force and a laptop computer, tv, video games and jewelry stolen.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Crime Report 01.06-07.09
Theft occurred in the 1900 b/o K St. NW between 1/5/2009 7pm- 1/6/2009 830am. Citizen reports the office was entered through unlocked doors and a laptop computer, monitor and checkbook stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1800 b/o 16th St. NW between 1/5/2009 8pm- 1/6/2009 8am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '99 Volvo 4 door bearing DC tags was entered by smashing the passenger window and a car stereo stolen.
Theft from Auto occurred in the 1600 b/o P St. NW on 1/6/2009 11am. Citizen reports the vehicle, no description given, was entered in an unknown manner and a leather jacket, theft device and assorted cd's stolen.
Theft from Auto attempt occurred in the 1600 b/o T St. NW between 1/5/2009 8pm- 1/6/2009 12pm. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '08 Chevy SUV bearing NC tags had the passenger window smashed. Entry was not gained and nothing stolen.
Stolen Auto occurred in the 1900 b/o M St. NW between 1/4/2009 630pm-1/5/2009 1230am. Citizen reports the vehicle, a '03 Mercury SABLE, 4 door, bearing Va. tags was stolen from where it was parked.
Dupont Circle Conservancy Annual Report
For those that may find it interesting:
Dupont Circle Conservancy
2008 Annual Report
(Submitted January 13, 2009)
The following items highlight the activities of the Dupont Circle Conservancy and its members during the year 2008.
General Affairs
· Dupont Circle Conservancy and Dupont Circle Citizens Association members were saddened by the sudden death of member Ron Leve in April. Ron was tireless in his community activities for both organizations and on behalf of others as well. As the Conservancy’s web site manager, he had been effective in finding a talented and affordable site designer who was nearing completion of a redesigned product when Ron died. The Conservancy’s new site is dedicated to Ron.
· Phil Polivchak died in May 2008. He had been a longtime Conservancy member and while not active in recent years, he and his partner Alden Kamikowa continued to open their home annually as the venue for the Conservancy’s December holiday meeting and social. Phil’s life and work were honored at a memorial service at the Cosmos Club.
· One of the Conservancy’s founding members, Charles Robertson, who also served as its first president from 1978 to 1992, was recognized as the 2008 recipient of the Mayor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement in Historic Preservation at a gala presentation and reception held November 8, at the Carnegie Institute for Peace at 16th and P Streets, NW. The award recognized Charles’s work over the years at neighborhood, citywide, and national levels.
· Longtime Conservancy member Kathryn (Kay) Eckles was recognized by DC Councilmember Jack Evans, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2B commissioners, the Conservancy, the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, and neighbors and friends for her tireless work on behalf of the Dupont Circle neighborhood in the areas of historic preservation and residential zoning issues. A reception for Kay on her 90th birthday was hosted by another longtime Conservancy member, Charles Robertson, at his home on Sunday, September 21, 2008. (Kay had just previously received the DC Federation of Citizens Association’s Extraordinary Public Service Award.)
· Jim Mears, the Conservancy’s treasurer, battled pneumonia for 5 weeks at the Washington Hospital Center, before returning home in March to recuperate. He was warmly welcomed back by Conservancy members and neighbors.
· At the gala awards ceremony and reception on November 8, Conservancy member Susan Fulton shared in a joint Mayor’s Award for the Best Residential Renovation. Receiving recognition with her were Paul Williams for his House History of her house, architect Jeffrey Hains, and contractor Carlos Antenza.
· Conservancy members Charlie Gaynor, Charles Robertson, and Rick Busch, and neighbors Anne Sellin and Dan Gamber, were successful in their nearly 4-year effort to reduce residential zoning in the northeast corner of the Dupont neighborhood from inappropriately high levels to categories more in keeping with the row house stock and character of the neighborhood and with the guidelines outlined in the current DC Comprehensive Plan. The effort had the support of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2B and the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, both of which served as co-sponsors of the rezoning application and supported the all volunteer effort financially. The final rulemaking was issued in December 2008.
· David Alpert became the Conservancy’s new representative to Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets Project.
Specific Projects and Activities
S & T Parks
For several years, Conservancy member Iris Molotsky has served as the organization’s point person on a Department of Parks and Recreation(DPR) initiative to relandscape the existing S & T Streets parks in the Dupont Circle Historic District into separate entities, one for dogs (the S Street park) and one for people (the T Street park). This work finally came to a successful conclusion in mid-2008 with a landscaping plan agreed upon by all interested parties. A DPR sign announcing the project was installed in the S Street portion of the complex in late December. Many thanks, Iris.
Police and Fire Callbox Project
Conservancy member Marilyn Newton continued to monitor maintenance of these iconic neighborhood fixtures and during 2008 and arranged for necessary repairs. This work ensures the appearance and usefulness of the call boxes as guideposts to neighborhood history for both residents and visitors alike. Thank you Marilyn for continuing to track needed work.
17th Street Streetscape Project
Don Jones continued to represent the Conservancy on a DC Department of Transportation initiative to redo the streetscape of 17th Street, NW, between P Street and Riggs Place. Don’s reports back to the Conservancy have allowed the organization to make recommendations that it believes will enhance the overall design. Actual work on the streetscape renewal may begin in 2009. Our thanks are extended to Don for his work.
1841 16th Street, NW (at the corner of T Street)
During the last 6 months of 2008, the Conservancy continued to monitor the structural status of this former single family residence turned rooming house in the 16th Street Historic District after interior structural walls started to collapse during the weekend of June 7-8. At the suggestion of Joel Lawson, president of DCCA, the Conservancy, along with assistance from ANC2B, developed a list of approximately a dozen neighborhood residences that either have been vacant for extended periods of time or are showing deterioration in other ways. This list was provided to the designated representative of the Director of the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs for action. Follow up took place on a continuing basis, and Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans personally got involved by asking Mayor Fenty directly for his attention to this matter. Additional follow up will take place during 2009.
14th and U Streets development project
After a year of work, including five separate Conservancy reviews, the proposed residential and commercial development project planned for the southwest corner of this intersection in the U Street Historic District came to a conclusion in terms of its massing and overall design. The Conservancy was unsuccessful in its initial request to reduce the height of the proposed development. Adjacent neighbors worked hard in a variety of ways to mitigate the impact of the zoning-allowable height on their residential neighborhood. Part of that effort included acceptance by the developer and his architect that the west elevation be given special design attention so that it would appear as a contributing one in the overall design and not just the rear wall of a tall commercial/residential structure.
Washington Hilton Hotel
We supported the landmark designation of this 1960s modernist building, but opposed the addition of an 11-story residential tower planned for the existing landscaped and pool area of the hotel’s eastern wing. The Historic Preservation Review Board approved the height and overall design concept for the proposed addition.
Vacant Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
This building, located at 1800 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, has stood vacant for between 7 and 10 years. Working with then-DCCA president Rob Halligan and ANC Commissioner Curtis Farrar, the Conservancy brought the ever-deteriorating state of the structure to the attention of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Claude Nebal and his associate Richard Massey, both of the Department’s Office of Foreign Missions. Further, the Conservancy developed a successful rationale for why the building, which began its existence exactly 100 years ago as the Joseph Taylor Arms Mansion, should be included in the D.C. Preservation League’s Most Endangered Places for 2008. It appears that work will soon begin on the restoration of the building’s exterior because the Historic Preservation Office’s Weekly Permit Report for December 8, 2008, included three permits for the following work: window replacement, stucco repair, roof replacement (revising existing terra cotta tiles), and driveway replacement. (HPO has been queried on what “revising existing terra cotta tiles” means.)
Vacant Embassy of the Philippines
This long-vacant property at 1617 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, had been deaccessioned as a diplomatic property at some point after the diplomatic functions were moved across the avenue to a new building about 15 years ago. Prompted by Conservancy member Lex Rieffel, we kept in close contact with the DC Mayor’s Office for Diplomatic and International Affairs as a way to express Conservancy concerns about the state of the building and to keep up pressure for its restoration and rehabilitation. In November, the building suffered a serious fire. The latest word from the mayor’s representative is that the Government of the Philippines plans to rehabilitate the building one floor at a time starting with the ground floor while simultaneously seeking to reinstate its status as a diplomatic property which it will then use for its visa operations.
Third Church of Christ, Scientist (16th and I Streets, NW)
The Conservancy supported the Committee of 100 and D.C. Preservation League-sponsored landmark nomination of this modernist structure and opposed the church’s subsequent request to the Historic Preservation Review Board for a permit to demolish the building. The HPRB denied that demolition permit request. Subsequently, the Mayor’s Agent for Historic Preservation heard the church’s demolition request on November 28; the Conservancy spoke briefly at this hearing again opposing the demolition request. The Mayor’s Agent’s ruling should be available in early 2009.
1401 T Street, NW
The former Paradise Liquor Store building’s exterior is under restoration and moving along nicely with review by the Conservancy, active watching by nearby neighbors, and careful oversight by the Historic Preservation Office’s Michael Beidler, preservation architect. Inappropriate flashing on the conical roof of the corner tower, inappropriate roofing material, and awkward placement of the finial were all corrected, and new appropriate windows have been installed in this important contributing building at the corner of 14th and T Streets, NW, in the Greater U Street Historic District.
1405-07 T Street, NW
In September, the Conservancy reviewed a proposed design scheme that calls for a 1-story addition (set back 15 feet from the parapet) to the historic former T Street Post Office substation, and a new 2-story building in the adjacent vacant lot to the east. When built, the combined structures are envisioned to provide gallery and commercial space. The Conservancy supported this design proposal, the completion of which will contribute measureable to the redevelopment of this major intersection.
1605 S Street, NW
Long derelict, this former residence which is a contributing structure in the Dupont Circle Historic District, has had its rear façade completely rebuilt with new windows and doors installed, and its front façade cleaned and repointed. Work on the cornice and flashing, and replacement of front windows remains to be completed.
1754 Swann Street, NW
This residential row house property was condemned by the Board of Condemnation of Insanitary Buildings in early 2008. The owner has cleaned out the interior to the satisfaction of BCIB inspectors and has valid permits for additional work. The permits expire during the first quarter of 2009. Nearby neighbors and the Conservancy continue to watch progress or lack thereof.
Cheh/Bowser Bill B17-911, Public Participation in Historic Designation Amendments Act of 2008
Proposed by DC Councilmembers Mary Cheh and Muriel Bowser, this bill, if passed, would have required votes by all property owners in future proposed historic districts, with the outcome based on the majority of those returning votes. The bill was the subject of a hearing by the DC Council Committee of the Whole on Friday, November 21. The Conservancy along with other neighborhood and citywide preservation organizations testified against this bill because of already existing regulations that provide for citizen input and a forthcoming series of proposed new regulations that strengthen those already existing.
On December 3, the D.C. Preservation League received word from DC Council Chair Vincent Gray that the bill will would not be reported out of the committee and that neither Councilmember Cheh or Councilmember Bowser sought to pursue it for a vote during this legislation session. These actions mean that the bill is dead for this legislative session.
Dupont Circle Conservancy
2008 Annual Report
(Submitted January 13, 2009)
The following items highlight the activities of the Dupont Circle Conservancy and its members during the year 2008.
General Affairs
· Dupont Circle Conservancy and Dupont Circle Citizens Association members were saddened by the sudden death of member Ron Leve in April. Ron was tireless in his community activities for both organizations and on behalf of others as well. As the Conservancy’s web site manager, he had been effective in finding a talented and affordable site designer who was nearing completion of a redesigned product when Ron died. The Conservancy’s new site is dedicated to Ron.
· Phil Polivchak died in May 2008. He had been a longtime Conservancy member and while not active in recent years, he and his partner Alden Kamikowa continued to open their home annually as the venue for the Conservancy’s December holiday meeting and social. Phil’s life and work were honored at a memorial service at the Cosmos Club.
· One of the Conservancy’s founding members, Charles Robertson, who also served as its first president from 1978 to 1992, was recognized as the 2008 recipient of the Mayor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement in Historic Preservation at a gala presentation and reception held November 8, at the Carnegie Institute for Peace at 16th and P Streets, NW. The award recognized Charles’s work over the years at neighborhood, citywide, and national levels.
· Longtime Conservancy member Kathryn (Kay) Eckles was recognized by DC Councilmember Jack Evans, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2B commissioners, the Conservancy, the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, and neighbors and friends for her tireless work on behalf of the Dupont Circle neighborhood in the areas of historic preservation and residential zoning issues. A reception for Kay on her 90th birthday was hosted by another longtime Conservancy member, Charles Robertson, at his home on Sunday, September 21, 2008. (Kay had just previously received the DC Federation of Citizens Association’s Extraordinary Public Service Award.)
· Jim Mears, the Conservancy’s treasurer, battled pneumonia for 5 weeks at the Washington Hospital Center, before returning home in March to recuperate. He was warmly welcomed back by Conservancy members and neighbors.
· At the gala awards ceremony and reception on November 8, Conservancy member Susan Fulton shared in a joint Mayor’s Award for the Best Residential Renovation. Receiving recognition with her were Paul Williams for his House History of her house, architect Jeffrey Hains, and contractor Carlos Antenza.
· Conservancy members Charlie Gaynor, Charles Robertson, and Rick Busch, and neighbors Anne Sellin and Dan Gamber, were successful in their nearly 4-year effort to reduce residential zoning in the northeast corner of the Dupont neighborhood from inappropriately high levels to categories more in keeping with the row house stock and character of the neighborhood and with the guidelines outlined in the current DC Comprehensive Plan. The effort had the support of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2B and the Dupont Circle Citizens Association, both of which served as co-sponsors of the rezoning application and supported the all volunteer effort financially. The final rulemaking was issued in December 2008.
· David Alpert became the Conservancy’s new representative to Historic Dupont Circle Main Streets Project.
Specific Projects and Activities
S & T Parks
For several years, Conservancy member Iris Molotsky has served as the organization’s point person on a Department of Parks and Recreation(DPR) initiative to relandscape the existing S & T Streets parks in the Dupont Circle Historic District into separate entities, one for dogs (the S Street park) and one for people (the T Street park). This work finally came to a successful conclusion in mid-2008 with a landscaping plan agreed upon by all interested parties. A DPR sign announcing the project was installed in the S Street portion of the complex in late December. Many thanks, Iris.
Police and Fire Callbox Project
Conservancy member Marilyn Newton continued to monitor maintenance of these iconic neighborhood fixtures and during 2008 and arranged for necessary repairs. This work ensures the appearance and usefulness of the call boxes as guideposts to neighborhood history for both residents and visitors alike. Thank you Marilyn for continuing to track needed work.
17th Street Streetscape Project
Don Jones continued to represent the Conservancy on a DC Department of Transportation initiative to redo the streetscape of 17th Street, NW, between P Street and Riggs Place. Don’s reports back to the Conservancy have allowed the organization to make recommendations that it believes will enhance the overall design. Actual work on the streetscape renewal may begin in 2009. Our thanks are extended to Don for his work.
1841 16th Street, NW (at the corner of T Street)
During the last 6 months of 2008, the Conservancy continued to monitor the structural status of this former single family residence turned rooming house in the 16th Street Historic District after interior structural walls started to collapse during the weekend of June 7-8. At the suggestion of Joel Lawson, president of DCCA, the Conservancy, along with assistance from ANC2B, developed a list of approximately a dozen neighborhood residences that either have been vacant for extended periods of time or are showing deterioration in other ways. This list was provided to the designated representative of the Director of the Department of Consumer & Regulatory Affairs for action. Follow up took place on a continuing basis, and Ward 2 Councilmember Jack Evans personally got involved by asking Mayor Fenty directly for his attention to this matter. Additional follow up will take place during 2009.
14th and U Streets development project
After a year of work, including five separate Conservancy reviews, the proposed residential and commercial development project planned for the southwest corner of this intersection in the U Street Historic District came to a conclusion in terms of its massing and overall design. The Conservancy was unsuccessful in its initial request to reduce the height of the proposed development. Adjacent neighbors worked hard in a variety of ways to mitigate the impact of the zoning-allowable height on their residential neighborhood. Part of that effort included acceptance by the developer and his architect that the west elevation be given special design attention so that it would appear as a contributing one in the overall design and not just the rear wall of a tall commercial/residential structure.
Washington Hilton Hotel
We supported the landmark designation of this 1960s modernist building, but opposed the addition of an 11-story residential tower planned for the existing landscaped and pool area of the hotel’s eastern wing. The Historic Preservation Review Board approved the height and overall design concept for the proposed addition.
Vacant Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
This building, located at 1800 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, has stood vacant for between 7 and 10 years. Working with then-DCCA president Rob Halligan and ANC Commissioner Curtis Farrar, the Conservancy brought the ever-deteriorating state of the structure to the attention of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Claude Nebal and his associate Richard Massey, both of the Department’s Office of Foreign Missions. Further, the Conservancy developed a successful rationale for why the building, which began its existence exactly 100 years ago as the Joseph Taylor Arms Mansion, should be included in the D.C. Preservation League’s Most Endangered Places for 2008. It appears that work will soon begin on the restoration of the building’s exterior because the Historic Preservation Office’s Weekly Permit Report for December 8, 2008, included three permits for the following work: window replacement, stucco repair, roof replacement (revising existing terra cotta tiles), and driveway replacement. (HPO has been queried on what “revising existing terra cotta tiles” means.)
Vacant Embassy of the Philippines
This long-vacant property at 1617 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, had been deaccessioned as a diplomatic property at some point after the diplomatic functions were moved across the avenue to a new building about 15 years ago. Prompted by Conservancy member Lex Rieffel, we kept in close contact with the DC Mayor’s Office for Diplomatic and International Affairs as a way to express Conservancy concerns about the state of the building and to keep up pressure for its restoration and rehabilitation. In November, the building suffered a serious fire. The latest word from the mayor’s representative is that the Government of the Philippines plans to rehabilitate the building one floor at a time starting with the ground floor while simultaneously seeking to reinstate its status as a diplomatic property which it will then use for its visa operations.
Third Church of Christ, Scientist (16th and I Streets, NW)
The Conservancy supported the Committee of 100 and D.C. Preservation League-sponsored landmark nomination of this modernist structure and opposed the church’s subsequent request to the Historic Preservation Review Board for a permit to demolish the building. The HPRB denied that demolition permit request. Subsequently, the Mayor’s Agent for Historic Preservation heard the church’s demolition request on November 28; the Conservancy spoke briefly at this hearing again opposing the demolition request. The Mayor’s Agent’s ruling should be available in early 2009.
1401 T Street, NW
The former Paradise Liquor Store building’s exterior is under restoration and moving along nicely with review by the Conservancy, active watching by nearby neighbors, and careful oversight by the Historic Preservation Office’s Michael Beidler, preservation architect. Inappropriate flashing on the conical roof of the corner tower, inappropriate roofing material, and awkward placement of the finial were all corrected, and new appropriate windows have been installed in this important contributing building at the corner of 14th and T Streets, NW, in the Greater U Street Historic District.
1405-07 T Street, NW
In September, the Conservancy reviewed a proposed design scheme that calls for a 1-story addition (set back 15 feet from the parapet) to the historic former T Street Post Office substation, and a new 2-story building in the adjacent vacant lot to the east. When built, the combined structures are envisioned to provide gallery and commercial space. The Conservancy supported this design proposal, the completion of which will contribute measureable to the redevelopment of this major intersection.
1605 S Street, NW
Long derelict, this former residence which is a contributing structure in the Dupont Circle Historic District, has had its rear façade completely rebuilt with new windows and doors installed, and its front façade cleaned and repointed. Work on the cornice and flashing, and replacement of front windows remains to be completed.
1754 Swann Street, NW
This residential row house property was condemned by the Board of Condemnation of Insanitary Buildings in early 2008. The owner has cleaned out the interior to the satisfaction of BCIB inspectors and has valid permits for additional work. The permits expire during the first quarter of 2009. Nearby neighbors and the Conservancy continue to watch progress or lack thereof.
Cheh/Bowser Bill B17-911, Public Participation in Historic Designation Amendments Act of 2008
Proposed by DC Councilmembers Mary Cheh and Muriel Bowser, this bill, if passed, would have required votes by all property owners in future proposed historic districts, with the outcome based on the majority of those returning votes. The bill was the subject of a hearing by the DC Council Committee of the Whole on Friday, November 21. The Conservancy along with other neighborhood and citywide preservation organizations testified against this bill because of already existing regulations that provide for citizen input and a forthcoming series of proposed new regulations that strengthen those already existing.
On December 3, the D.C. Preservation League received word from DC Council Chair Vincent Gray that the bill will would not be reported out of the committee and that neither Councilmember Cheh or Councilmember Bowser sought to pursue it for a vote during this legislation session. These actions mean that the bill is dead for this legislative session.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Mitchell Republic: SD Inauguration Party
In addition to my ANC work, I serve on the board of the South Dakota State Society, a 501(c)3 organization. We're hosting an Inaugural Reception, and a local paper in South Dakota interviewed me about the upcoming event. I thought it might be of interest to some folks.
Best,
Jack
S.D. inauguration party expecting good crowd in D.C.
Austin Kaus
The Daily Republic - 01/05/2009
Organizers of a Washington, D.C., pre-inauguration cocktail reception for those with South Dakota connections are hoping for a large crowd.
Gov. Mike Rounds won’t be among the attendees, citing budget concerns.
Jack Jacobson, vice president of the South Dakota State Society, said he’s expecting good attendance at the semi-formal cocktail reception Jan. 19 at the late President James Monroe’s former executive mansion in Washington.
However, Jacobson said Rounds already has declined an invitation. The governor has asked those in state government to try to reduce spending in tight economic times.
“He wants to follow that lead that he’s sent and not do any extra travel himself either,” Jacobson said.
The event is the fourth to be hosted by the South Dakota State Society since its reformation a year ago. While no formal invitations will be mailed, online invitations already have been distributed to current and past members of South Dakota’s congressional delegation as well as those connected with the society.
The event will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the James Monroe House. Tickets to the event are $50 for adults, $25 for students and $15 for children. The event will include hors d’oeuvres and three drink tickets.
The house, now home to the Arts Club of Washington, was the executive mansion for Monroe early in his presidency.
Jacobson said those eager to celebrate the inauguration and network with those in the South Dakota political arena are welcome to attend, even if they haven’t received an invitation.
The history of state societies stretches back more than a century, but this month’s event will be only the fourth held since Jacobson and others reformed the society. It originally disbanded about 30 years ago.
A native of Tea and a graduate of Augustana College in Sioux Falls, Jacobson said the society offers an opportunity for South Dakotans in the nation’s capital to keep in contact.
“It’s a great networking opportunity for folks from other states who move to Washington,” Jacobson said.
The group originally planned to hold a brunch, but the large number of people expected to fill the city for Obama’s inauguration means tighter security.
“The logistics just don’t work this year,” Jacobson said. “There’s a lot of complication with having as many people in Washington as the city’s expecting.”
Best,
Jack
S.D. inauguration party expecting good crowd in D.C.
Austin Kaus
The Daily Republic - 01/05/2009
Organizers of a Washington, D.C., pre-inauguration cocktail reception for those with South Dakota connections are hoping for a large crowd.
Gov. Mike Rounds won’t be among the attendees, citing budget concerns.
Jack Jacobson, vice president of the South Dakota State Society, said he’s expecting good attendance at the semi-formal cocktail reception Jan. 19 at the late President James Monroe’s former executive mansion in Washington.
However, Jacobson said Rounds already has declined an invitation. The governor has asked those in state government to try to reduce spending in tight economic times.
“He wants to follow that lead that he’s sent and not do any extra travel himself either,” Jacobson said.
The event is the fourth to be hosted by the South Dakota State Society since its reformation a year ago. While no formal invitations will be mailed, online invitations already have been distributed to current and past members of South Dakota’s congressional delegation as well as those connected with the society.
The event will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the James Monroe House. Tickets to the event are $50 for adults, $25 for students and $15 for children. The event will include hors d’oeuvres and three drink tickets.
The house, now home to the Arts Club of Washington, was the executive mansion for Monroe early in his presidency.
Jacobson said those eager to celebrate the inauguration and network with those in the South Dakota political arena are welcome to attend, even if they haven’t received an invitation.
The history of state societies stretches back more than a century, but this month’s event will be only the fourth held since Jacobson and others reformed the society. It originally disbanded about 30 years ago.
A native of Tea and a graduate of Augustana College in Sioux Falls, Jacobson said the society offers an opportunity for South Dakotans in the nation’s capital to keep in contact.
“It’s a great networking opportunity for folks from other states who move to Washington,” Jacobson said.
The group originally planned to hold a brunch, but the large number of people expected to fill the city for Obama’s inauguration means tighter security.
“The logistics just don’t work this year,” Jacobson said. “There’s a lot of complication with having as many people in Washington as the city’s expecting.”
Inaugural Information
DC has launched a web site dedicated to Inauguration information. You can find more information at www.inauguration.dc.gov.
I've spoken as well to our police Lt., and there is going to be a liaison office in Baltimore for the police forces that are coming to DC from other jurisdictions. The city is expecting an additional police force of 3,000 members or so to help with public safety.
I'll post more information as I believe it would be helpful.
I've spoken as well to our police Lt., and there is going to be a liaison office in Baltimore for the police forces that are coming to DC from other jurisdictions. The city is expecting an additional police force of 3,000 members or so to help with public safety.
I'll post more information as I believe it would be helpful.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Presidential Inauguration Map/Info
Here is some information passed along by Commissioner Will Stephens on the Inauguration, which streets will be blocked/no parking, and where bus parking will be.
Living in Dupont is obviously a double-edged sword. We get to walk to all of the Inaugural activities, but we also have to deal with parking restrictions and with bus zones. It's going to be a trying week, and anyone who's not interested in being here for the Inauguration may want to consider heading out of the city for a few days.
As always, if there's anything I can do to help, please let me know.
Neighborhood News December 2008
Friends & Neighbors:
I have started a monthly newsletter I am distributing throughout our district that I wanted you to be aware of. Many of you recieved it from me via email last month, and I've gotten extremely positive feedback. I'm not technically savvy enough to post the actual .pdf of the document online, but did want to post here all of the articles that were included (I will exclude photos for the time being).
If you would like to recieve the newsletter, please email me at jack@friendsofjack.com and I will be happy to add you to my distribution list. You can also email me at that address if you have any news tips or story ideas for inclusion in the newsletter.
I have a favor as well - could you please send the newsletter to your building listserve if you live in a condo building or apartment complex? Many thanks, and all my best to you for a very happy new year!
Jack
I wish you all the best during this holiday season. Unfortunately, the difficult economy along with the annual projected increase in crime around the holidays has led to an increase in neighborhood crime.
Please look out for yourself and your neighbors. Lock doors and windows, don't leave anything in your car or your guests' cars, and call 911 if you see anything suspicious. Email neighborhood.network.208@gmail.com to become a block captain.
-Jack Jacobson, Commissioner, ANC 2B04
HELP THE HOMELESS WALKATHON A SUCCESS
Charlie's Place, a non-profit organization helping homeless and impoverished clients, raised over $40,000 during the 2008 Fannie Mae Help the Homeless Walkathon, held November 22.
Dozens of Charlie's Place supporters braved the bitter cold to help aide Charlie's Place. I was joined by Dupont Circle Commission Treasurer Mike Silverstein and many others for the early morning walk, benefitting organizations helping the homeless throughout the DC metropolitan area.
Charlie's Place provides a nutritious meal to clients every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning starting at 6:30 am. For more information or to volunteer at Charlie's Place, go to www.charliesplacedc.org or contact tgoss@stmargaretsdc.org.
ANNIE'S STEAKHOUSE CELEBRATES 60 YEARS
Annie's Paramount Steakhouse celebrated 60 years in the neighborhood on December 15. Annie's has been on 17th Street since 1948, and is located at 1609 17th Street, NW.
You've probably already noticed, but Annie's has been doing major rennovations in anticipation of the anniversary, including an entire redesign of the upstairs area, which is now a higher-end bar and restaurant. The menu has been updated as well, and the food is delicious and the service is delightful! Stop by and have a bite!
Holiday Trash Schedule/Tree Collection
The Department of Public Works (DPW) has released a revised schedule for trash removal and Christmas tree collection.
I have started a monthly newsletter I am distributing throughout our district that I wanted you to be aware of. Many of you recieved it from me via email last month, and I've gotten extremely positive feedback. I'm not technically savvy enough to post the actual .pdf of the document online, but did want to post here all of the articles that were included (I will exclude photos for the time being).
If you would like to recieve the newsletter, please email me at jack@friendsofjack.com and I will be happy to add you to my distribution list. You can also email me at that address if you have any news tips or story ideas for inclusion in the newsletter.
I have a favor as well - could you please send the newsletter to your building listserve if you live in a condo building or apartment complex? Many thanks, and all my best to you for a very happy new year!
Jack
I wish you all the best during this holiday season. Unfortunately, the difficult economy along with the annual projected increase in crime around the holidays has led to an increase in neighborhood crime.
Please look out for yourself and your neighbors. Lock doors and windows, don't leave anything in your car or your guests' cars, and call 911 if you see anything suspicious. Email neighborhood.network.208@gmail.com to become a block captain.
-Jack Jacobson, Commissioner, ANC 2B04
HELP THE HOMELESS WALKATHON A SUCCESS
Charlie's Place, a non-profit organization helping homeless and impoverished clients, raised over $40,000 during the 2008 Fannie Mae Help the Homeless Walkathon, held November 22.
Dozens of Charlie's Place supporters braved the bitter cold to help aide Charlie's Place. I was joined by Dupont Circle Commission Treasurer Mike Silverstein and many others for the early morning walk, benefitting organizations helping the homeless throughout the DC metropolitan area.
Charlie's Place provides a nutritious meal to clients every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday morning starting at 6:30 am. For more information or to volunteer at Charlie's Place, go to www.charliesplacedc.org or contact tgoss@stmargaretsdc.org.
ANNIE'S STEAKHOUSE CELEBRATES 60 YEARS
Annie's Paramount Steakhouse celebrated 60 years in the neighborhood on December 15. Annie's has been on 17th Street since 1948, and is located at 1609 17th Street, NW.
You've probably already noticed, but Annie's has been doing major rennovations in anticipation of the anniversary, including an entire redesign of the upstairs area, which is now a higher-end bar and restaurant. The menu has been updated as well, and the food is delicious and the service is delightful! Stop by and have a bite!
Holiday Trash Schedule/Tree Collection
The Department of Public Works (DPW) has released a revised schedule for trash removal and Christmas tree collection.
- December 25 – No trash, recycling or leaf collection
- January 1 – No trash, recycling or leaf collection
- January 2-11 – Christmas trees will be collected; leave trees curbside in planting boxes – do not block the sidewalks
- January 19 – No trash or recycling collection
- January 20 – Trash will be collected
STEAD PARK REOPENS
Stead Park, located on P Street between 16th and 17th Streets, NW, has reopened after undergoing extensive rennovations over the last several months.
Dupont Circle Neighborhood Commissioner Victor Wexler, Mayor Adrian Fenty, and Councilmember Jack Evans were on hand during the ribbon cutting ceremony which was held on Friday, December 12.
Neighborhood children are already using the jungle gym, slides and basketball court. Walk by and take a look! As an aside, the rubber play surfaces took THREE DAYS to cure.
Some trees and basketball court lights are still being installed, but the place looks great.
BORDERSTAN.COM
One of the great things about living in a closely-knit neighborhood is that you can get to know your neighbors and work together to promote issues that are important to neighborhood residents. A great example of neighborhood action achieving results is the activity that started along "Borderstan", the residents living between Logan and Dupont Circle on 15th Street, between P and T Streets, NW.
Borderstan formed to raise the awareness of increasing crime along 15th Street, which is a quick escape route for burglars and robbers. Borderstan started to work with the police and hold community meetings, and distributed public safety information to residents.
Borderstan expanded its activities and launched a web site (www.borderstan.com), which has been cited by several news sources and now has several thousand hits a day. It's a great place to access helpful public safety information, and I encourage you to visit the site often.
Dupont Circle Conservancy Electric Meter Boxes
The DCC wanted us to post the following notice about electric boxes and their location and appearance in historic districts like Dupont Circle. I hope you find it helpful.
******** BULLETIN *********
LOCATION OF ELECTRIC METER BOXES
· ARE YOU PLANNING A MAJOR RENOVATION OR OTHER WORK THAT INCLUDES INCREASING YOUR ELECTRIC CAPACITY (HEAVY-UP)?
· ARE YOU PLANNING A NEW CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN A HISTORIC DISTRICT THAT WILL REQUIRE NEW ELECTRICAL METER(S)?
· ARE YOU PLANNING TO CONVERT A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE TO 2 OR MORE UNITS, WITH SEPARATE ELECTRIC METERS?
· IS YOUR ELECTRIC METER CURRENTLY LOCATED INSIDE?
If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you may have an opportunity to locate your meter in a way that does not detract from the façade of your historic house or the integrity of the historic district.
Over the past several months, the Historic Districts Coalition has been working with the Historic Preservation Office (HPO), DDOT, DCRA, Pepco, and others to find a better alternative to installing large and unsightly electric meter boxes on the fronts of historic properties.
Until more formal guidelines are completed, the Historic Districts Coalition encourages you to follow this guidance for meter location, in the following priority:
Locate meters inside the property. Pepco can provide meters that will be read electronically and/or from a remote location.
Locate meters at the rear of the property, when there is access to electrical service from the rear.
Locate meters under the front stoop or in a below-grade areaway on the front of the property (provided there is sufficient clearance to meet safety standards and building code requirements).
Locating freestanding meters on posts or other structures in the front yard or on the front façade in a way that covers significant architectural features may not be permitted by the HPO or DDOT/Public Space and should be AVOIDED. If none of the three options above are available to you, please consult the HPO for further guidance on the location of meters (www.planning.dc.gov/hpo or 202-442-8800).
Thank you for helping to maintain the beauty and integrity of our historic districts.
Historic Districts Coalition
******** BULLETIN *********
LOCATION OF ELECTRIC METER BOXES
· ARE YOU PLANNING A MAJOR RENOVATION OR OTHER WORK THAT INCLUDES INCREASING YOUR ELECTRIC CAPACITY (HEAVY-UP)?
· ARE YOU PLANNING A NEW CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IN A HISTORIC DISTRICT THAT WILL REQUIRE NEW ELECTRICAL METER(S)?
· ARE YOU PLANNING TO CONVERT A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE TO 2 OR MORE UNITS, WITH SEPARATE ELECTRIC METERS?
· IS YOUR ELECTRIC METER CURRENTLY LOCATED INSIDE?
If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you may have an opportunity to locate your meter in a way that does not detract from the façade of your historic house or the integrity of the historic district.
Over the past several months, the Historic Districts Coalition has been working with the Historic Preservation Office (HPO), DDOT, DCRA, Pepco, and others to find a better alternative to installing large and unsightly electric meter boxes on the fronts of historic properties.
Until more formal guidelines are completed, the Historic Districts Coalition encourages you to follow this guidance for meter location, in the following priority:
Locate meters inside the property. Pepco can provide meters that will be read electronically and/or from a remote location.
Locate meters at the rear of the property, when there is access to electrical service from the rear.
Locate meters under the front stoop or in a below-grade areaway on the front of the property (provided there is sufficient clearance to meet safety standards and building code requirements).
Locating freestanding meters on posts or other structures in the front yard or on the front façade in a way that covers significant architectural features may not be permitted by the HPO or DDOT/Public Space and should be AVOIDED. If none of the three options above are available to you, please consult the HPO for further guidance on the location of meters (www.planning.dc.gov/hpo or 202-442-8800).
Thank you for helping to maintain the beauty and integrity of our historic districts.
Historic Districts Coalition
Robbery at Gunpoint Last Night
Friends and Neighbors:
Last night a neighborhood activist and good friend of mine was robbed at gunpoint. The robbery occurred on the north side of Stead Park at approximately 8:05 pm in a poorly lit alley behind several apartment buildings.
Two African American males, mid-height, late teens or early twenties approached him and one displayed a small, revolver style handgun. They took his wallet and coat, and fled on foot. Police were on the scene within minutes, but were not able to apprehend either subject.
I spoke with our police lieutenant about the robbery shortly after it occurred, and police are increasing visibility in the area. The Lt. believes that the robbery may be tied to a series of similar robberies that occurred in late November and early December in the neighborhood.
Please be aware of your surroundings. Travel on well lit streets at night and stay away from alleys and deserted streets if at all possible. Look for distinguishing characteristics of assailants, including their shoes, any scars, height, weight and approximate age. Contact police immediately and don't take unnecessary risks.
And, as always, please keep an eye out and call 911 if you see any suspicious activity. You don't need to feel foolish for calling the police. They are frequently on patrol in our neighborhood, and often have time to swing by and check out suspicious activities if they're made aware of them.
Last night a neighborhood activist and good friend of mine was robbed at gunpoint. The robbery occurred on the north side of Stead Park at approximately 8:05 pm in a poorly lit alley behind several apartment buildings.
Two African American males, mid-height, late teens or early twenties approached him and one displayed a small, revolver style handgun. They took his wallet and coat, and fled on foot. Police were on the scene within minutes, but were not able to apprehend either subject.
I spoke with our police lieutenant about the robbery shortly after it occurred, and police are increasing visibility in the area. The Lt. believes that the robbery may be tied to a series of similar robberies that occurred in late November and early December in the neighborhood.
Please be aware of your surroundings. Travel on well lit streets at night and stay away from alleys and deserted streets if at all possible. Look for distinguishing characteristics of assailants, including their shoes, any scars, height, weight and approximate age. Contact police immediately and don't take unnecessary risks.
And, as always, please keep an eye out and call 911 if you see any suspicious activity. You don't need to feel foolish for calling the police. They are frequently on patrol in our neighborhood, and often have time to swing by and check out suspicious activities if they're made aware of them.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Blade: Six D.C. gay clubs eligible for extended hours
I was quoted in the Blade regarding possible extended hours for restaurants and bars along 17th Street during the inauguration. An excerpt:
Other popular gay bars on 17th Street, including JR.’s and Cobalt, have voluntary agreements that prevent them from remaining open later than the normal bar closing times, according to Dupont Circle ANC commissioner Jack Jacobson, who’s gay.
Jacobson said the ANC could consider approving its own exemption to the voluntary agreements for the Inaugural week. But he noted that most of the voluntary agreements for Dupont Circle-area bars and restaurants include signatories from organizations in addition to the ANC, including the Dupont Circle Citizens Association and groups of private citizens.
“It would be unlikely that all the parties involved could agree to doing anything like this in the little time we have left before the Inauguration,” Jacobson said.
Although Jacobson said he was open to consider such an exemption, most ANC commissions have expressed strong opposition to any extended bar hours during the Inaugural celebration.
Other popular gay bars on 17th Street, including JR.’s and Cobalt, have voluntary agreements that prevent them from remaining open later than the normal bar closing times, according to Dupont Circle ANC commissioner Jack Jacobson, who’s gay.
Jacobson said the ANC could consider approving its own exemption to the voluntary agreements for the Inaugural week. But he noted that most of the voluntary agreements for Dupont Circle-area bars and restaurants include signatories from organizations in addition to the ANC, including the Dupont Circle Citizens Association and groups of private citizens.
“It would be unlikely that all the parties involved could agree to doing anything like this in the little time we have left before the Inauguration,” Jacobson said.
Although Jacobson said he was open to consider such an exemption, most ANC commissions have expressed strong opposition to any extended bar hours during the Inaugural celebration.
Back from the Holidays
Just a quick note to let everyone know I'm back from the holidays and fully engaged in a host of issues affecting our community. There is some utility work and sidewalk repair/replacement occurring on S Street (in the 1600 and 1800-1900 blocks, respectively); tonight there is a DCCA meeting that I'll be attending in my District at the Chastleton; and we're gearing up for our organizational ANC meeting next Wednesday.
I'll start posting more and greater updates shortly, starting next with a Blade article in which I'm quoted.
I'll start posting more and greater updates shortly, starting next with a Blade article in which I'm quoted.
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