Maybe it is the summer doldrums, or maybe it is the lack of concentrated parking issues when many people are at the beach, but for some reason, parking seems to be a hot topic in both Cleveland Park and Friendship Heights.
In Cleveland Park, the issue seems to stem around residential versus commuter parking in zoned areas, given the proximity of the Metro. Residents are being creative in possible solutions including the creation of sub-zones, alteration of the duration of allowable time, or the creation of visitor passes.
On the Tenleytown Listserv, residents share a similar fate, but are also concerned with the folks are are using the surface parking to shop at Mazza Gallery and other retail along Wisconsin Avenue. The concern is that while there is plenty of available parking, it is dramatically underutilized, according to a recent Friendship Heights Traffic Study(PDF):
Mazza Gallery - 850 Garage Parking Spaces
Weekday AM 20% Utilization
Weekday PM 30% Utilization
Saturday 40% Utilization
Chevy Chase Pavilion - 675 Garage Parking Spaces
Weekday AM 60% Utilization
Weekday PM 80% Utilization
Saturday 50% Utilization
5225 Wisconsin (Bambule/Elizabeth Arden) - 235 Garage Parking Spaces
Weekday AM 80% Utilization
Weekday PM 80% Utilization
Saturday 20% Utilization.
On contributor complained that the existing parking structures are underground and "creepy". This combined with the expense (as compared to public lots in Bethesda, MD) prompted calls for a municipal parking garage in Friendship Heights.
For a group of people who have consistently opposed new development, partially on the basis of traffic issues in the community, this is an odd request. As noted by one commentor:
You believe that the city should spend money acquiring a piece of property and then spending 30 Million plus on a parking garage (and also preclude generating any future property or sales taxes from the lot) so someone can drive...and have cheap, convenient and essentially subsidized parking?
So the question isn't whether there is adaquate parking because there clearly is but whether the public sector should spend money to make parking, and hence driving, easier?
But the same folks who are clamoring for a parking garage are the same people who routinely are complaining about traffic which is clearly contradictory unless you intend to beam the cars into the garage somehow?
It will be interesting to see if the ANC's and City Council pick this issue up again. The last time proved to be too difficult to arrive at any conclusions for best practices going forward.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
NW Current Now Online
The Current Newspapers now has an online presence, complete with archives. It will be great to see how they expand out functionality, particularly the ability to make comments on articles.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Lead Hazard at Turtle Park
Channel 9 reports their discovery of lead paint on fences at Turtle Park. Read the online excerpt for more.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Fisher on Pools
After yesterday's entry about the demolition of the Wilson Pool, there is follow up in the form of a RawFisher blog post about Ward 3 Pools, or lack thereof.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Wilson Pool Going Away!
Mayor Adrian M. Fenty, Councilmember Cheh, Chancellor Rhee and Allan Lew will take part in the demolition of the condemned Wilson High School aquatic facility. Together with the DC Public Schools and DC Department of Parks and Recreation, the Mayor will provide an update on construction of the new facility - originally scheduled to begin in 2003.
August 20th (and not soon enough)!
August 20th (and not soon enough)!
Thursday, August 16, 2007
When "Matter of Right" Isn't
Many of the development issues surrounding Wisconsin Avenue proposals have centered around the PUD process, with many in the Tenleytown and Friendship Heights community beating the drum on "Matter of Right" development versus the PUD (Planned Unit Development) proposals which allow developers to exceed "Matter of Right" zoning provisions in exchange for neighborhood amenities. Such amenities can include support for local non-profits or schools, inclusionary housing, etc. Even with all of its flaws, the PUD process enables community input on a wide variety of issues including density, amenities and even aesthetics.
With this background, some discussion on local listservs have raised the issue of the "Matter of Right" development at the former Outer Circle Theater site. The theater has been demolished to make way for Commerce Bank, with provisions for curb cuts enabling a drive-through window. Such 1950's planning amenities have been forsaken in such outer suburia locale such as Leesburg, and yet become viable in NW DC because of an ANC which has decided to take no action because the proposal is "Matter of Right" under current zoning.
Curb cuts are unsafe for pedestrians.
Curb cuts disrupt traffic on Wisconsin Avenue.
Drive-through windows encourage more vehicular traffic.
One-story banks on a busy corridor will hardly generate pedestrian traffic and activity as a destination.
In an era where ANC 3E has consistently complained about increased traffic on Wisconsin Avenue, where it has complained about needed pedestrian safety, why would it make no noise on this proposal?
Because it is a low-rise, low impact development, potentially ugly building which the bank can build as a matter of right.
Great.
With this background, some discussion on local listservs have raised the issue of the "Matter of Right" development at the former Outer Circle Theater site. The theater has been demolished to make way for Commerce Bank, with provisions for curb cuts enabling a drive-through window. Such 1950's planning amenities have been forsaken in such outer suburia locale such as Leesburg, and yet become viable in NW DC because of an ANC which has decided to take no action because the proposal is "Matter of Right" under current zoning.
Curb cuts are unsafe for pedestrians.
Curb cuts disrupt traffic on Wisconsin Avenue.
Drive-through windows encourage more vehicular traffic.
One-story banks on a busy corridor will hardly generate pedestrian traffic and activity as a destination.
In an era where ANC 3E has consistently complained about increased traffic on Wisconsin Avenue, where it has complained about needed pedestrian safety, why would it make no noise on this proposal?
Because it is a low-rise, low impact development, potentially ugly building which the bank can build as a matter of right.
Great.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Chancellor Rhee Forum
Councilmember Mary M. Cheh will host an Education Forum with Chancellor Rhee and Mayor Fenty on Wednesday, August 22nd at Murch Elementary School. Parents are invited to come and discuss with the Chancellor new DCPS strategies and plans to better the Ward 3 public schools at the elementary school, middle school, and high school level.
"This is an exciting time for DC public schools", said Cheh, "and I am delighted to introduce the Mayor's new education leadership to the parents of Ward 3. The parents should be able to." Cheh stated, "This will be a perfect opportunity to ask the Chancellor how Ward 3 schools will be improved, and discuss any thoughts or concerns that the parents might have"
The forum will be held August 22nd, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Murch Elementary School is located at the corner of Davenport and 36th Streets, N.W.
Contact: Talia Primor
(202) 724-8062
"This is an exciting time for DC public schools", said Cheh, "and I am delighted to introduce the Mayor's new education leadership to the parents of Ward 3. The parents should be able to." Cheh stated, "This will be a perfect opportunity to ask the Chancellor how Ward 3 schools will be improved, and discuss any thoughts or concerns that the parents might have"
The forum will be held August 22nd, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Murch Elementary School is located at the corner of Davenport and 36th Streets, N.W.
Contact: Talia Primor
(202) 724-8062
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Tenleytown Sees a New Restuarant on the Horizon
A posting from the proprietor of the replacement for the Dancing Crab on 41st Street in Tenleytown announced the coming Lounge:
First of all our business will not be called "41st Street Lounge" and it will not be a nightclub...However, the style and
atmosphere of the restaurant will be different from all the others in Tenleytown. The Restaurant will have a more modern look and more relaxed feel. Many of you enjoy going out to eat, right? Ok, so you go out to eat. You finish your dinner and then what? At our establishment we want you to linger and the design of the place will encourage you to do so. That is where the word "lounge" comes into play. Our goal is to create a place where customers can "make an evening of it" and not just another place where you eat and feel as though you are being rushed out the door and then left to your own devices. We hope to be open around the beginning of 2008.
The post came in reponse to some misconceptions surrounding the new place, including fear of late night noise and traffic as well as parking concerns.
Others were quick to point out the need and benefits of such additions to the neighborhood. One member of the listserv provided interesting and refreshing insight into the benefits of new additions to the community:
Tenleytown is far behind its neigboring communities in terms of the amount and quality of amenities a community with such diverse, affluent and cosmopolitan residents as ours should have. Our retail has many dingy and lackluster spots (e.g., multiple mattress stores...), our dining options are limited and primarily low-end, nightlife opportunities are even more limited than dining AND we have far too many empty storefronts. Whole Foods and the Best Buy complex are great but once you've got your organic wheat-free muffins and your printer cartridges fully stocked, for many other needs/wants a lot of folks will find themselves leaving our neighborhood for better choices elsewhere...
First of all our business will not be called "41st Street Lounge" and it will not be a nightclub...However, the style and
atmosphere of the restaurant will be different from all the others in Tenleytown. The Restaurant will have a more modern look and more relaxed feel. Many of you enjoy going out to eat, right? Ok, so you go out to eat. You finish your dinner and then what? At our establishment we want you to linger and the design of the place will encourage you to do so. That is where the word "lounge" comes into play. Our goal is to create a place where customers can "make an evening of it" and not just another place where you eat and feel as though you are being rushed out the door and then left to your own devices. We hope to be open around the beginning of 2008.
The post came in reponse to some misconceptions surrounding the new place, including fear of late night noise and traffic as well as parking concerns.
Others were quick to point out the need and benefits of such additions to the neighborhood. One member of the listserv provided interesting and refreshing insight into the benefits of new additions to the community:
Tenleytown is far behind its neigboring communities in terms of the amount and quality of amenities a community with such diverse, affluent and cosmopolitan residents as ours should have. Our retail has many dingy and lackluster spots (e.g., multiple mattress stores...), our dining options are limited and primarily low-end, nightlife opportunities are even more limited than dining AND we have far too many empty storefronts. Whole Foods and the Best Buy complex are great but once you've got your organic wheat-free muffins and your printer cartridges fully stocked, for many other needs/wants a lot of folks will find themselves leaving our neighborhood for better choices elsewhere...
Monday, August 06, 2007
Update on Eco-Vandalism
A recent entry cited a Washington Post report on an act of vandalism to a Ward 3 resident's Hummer. A comment in this forum decried the use of "terrorism" and "hate crime" as a description of this action. An update iin the Washington Post ironically describes the case as having been taken over by the FBI:
D.C. police initially investigated the case, but Groves said officers told him that the FBI had taken it over as a suspected incident of eco-terrorism.
"Everybody seems a lot more angry about what happened than I am," Groves said.
D.C. police initially investigated the case, but Groves said officers told him that the FBI had taken it over as a suspected incident of eco-terrorism.
"Everybody seems a lot more angry about what happened than I am," Groves said.
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Two DDOT notes regarding the greater Tenley area
Note One
The District Department of Transportation removed the barrier at the River Road, Fessenden and 45th Streets intersection. In May 2007, DDOT announced at a public meeting it would be taking certain measures to help improve vehicular and pedestrian safety at the intersection at River Road, Fessenden and 45th Streets. Once these measures were completed, DDOT would commence to remove the existing barrier.
The courses of action included:
* Complete the installation of the traffic signal at Wisconsin and River Road to allow for a signalized left turn onto Wisconsin Avenue.
* Remove the bushes/shrubs in the public space to greatly improve sightline visibility.
* Coordinate with MPD to install a speed camera on River Road.
* Re-stripe the crosswalks with high-visibility crosswalks. Install new high visibility pedestrian signage.
* Install new signage indicating no left turn during morning rush hours at both Fessenden and Ellicott Streets to discourage through traffic and encourage vehicles to utilize the new traffic signal at Wisconsin and River Road.
DDOT will continue to evaluate the area for a 180-day period at which time, if necessary, further measures may be recommended.
Note Two
In addition to the afore mentioned DCFD light at the Tenley Firehouse, there will also be a signal installed at Wisconsin and Warren Streets:
The signal at Wisconsin and Warren , NW will be separate from the signal at Wisconsin and Engine Company Number 20. The signal at Wisconsin and Warren, NW will cycle like a normal semi-actuated signal with a full component of vehicular and pedestrian signal heads; its operation will not be dependent upon the presence or absence of a fire truck at Engine Company Number 20. All pedestrian signal heads will feature the countdown modules. All vehicular and pedestrian movements will be permitted at Wisconsin and Warren , NW, but there will be no turn arrows designating permitted or protected movements.
The District Department of Transportation removed the barrier at the River Road, Fessenden and 45th Streets intersection. In May 2007, DDOT announced at a public meeting it would be taking certain measures to help improve vehicular and pedestrian safety at the intersection at River Road, Fessenden and 45th Streets. Once these measures were completed, DDOT would commence to remove the existing barrier.
The courses of action included:
* Complete the installation of the traffic signal at Wisconsin and River Road to allow for a signalized left turn onto Wisconsin Avenue.
* Remove the bushes/shrubs in the public space to greatly improve sightline visibility.
* Coordinate with MPD to install a speed camera on River Road.
* Re-stripe the crosswalks with high-visibility crosswalks. Install new high visibility pedestrian signage.
* Install new signage indicating no left turn during morning rush hours at both Fessenden and Ellicott Streets to discourage through traffic and encourage vehicles to utilize the new traffic signal at Wisconsin and River Road.
DDOT will continue to evaluate the area for a 180-day period at which time, if necessary, further measures may be recommended.
Note Two
In addition to the afore mentioned DCFD light at the Tenley Firehouse, there will also be a signal installed at Wisconsin and Warren Streets:
The signal at Wisconsin and Warren , NW will be separate from the signal at Wisconsin and Engine Company Number 20. The signal at Wisconsin and Warren, NW will cycle like a normal semi-actuated signal with a full component of vehicular and pedestrian signal heads; its operation will not be dependent upon the presence or absence of a fire truck at Engine Company Number 20. All pedestrian signal heads will feature the countdown modules. All vehicular and pedestrian movements will be permitted at Wisconsin and Warren , NW, but there will be no turn arrows designating permitted or protected movements.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
River Road Barrier Removed
We are pleased to announce that effective today, the barrier at the intersection of River Road, Fessenden, and 46th Streets, NW has been removed.
The barrier was erected in December of 2004. Since then, we--with the widespread support of the neighborhood-- have been working for its removal because it never responded effectively to its claimed purpose--to improve safety at the intersection. The unintended but foreseeable impact of the barrier was to simply redirect traffic, shifting it from a collector street onto other streets in the neighborhood and creating new safety and traffic concerns elsewhere.
While we are delighted with the removal of the barrier and appreciate the efforts made by DDOT officials in the past few months, the fact that it took over three years to resolve this issue is a sad reflection of the way in which the city government deals with issues such as this. We hope that some lessons have been learned from this experience, most notably the need for DC government officials to consult with the ANC and neighborhood residents BEFORE any action is taken. If the neighborhood had had the opportunity to meaningfully address the concerns about the intersection prior to the implementation of ill-conceived solutions, we believe that a better solution would have been arrived at--and more importantly--would have avoided the polarization that has too often characterized discussions regarding the barrier. We have been heartened by the responsiveness of DDOT's new director, Emeke Moneme and Karyn LeBlanc, who has spearheaded the barrier's removal on behalf of DDOT, and hope that their effort signals a new willingness on the part of DDOT to work with the community and to consult with residents and the ANC before making any changes that will have a significant impact on our traffic .
Even now, the removal of the barrier is not without its price. While we have hopefully seen the last of any barrier, the community is faced with increasing number of turn restrictions from River Road. While this may be a reasonable price to pay, all of us may find that the increased traffic restrictions most detrimentally affect those of us who live in the area, not others who traverse our neighborhood. Because the effects of the new traffic patterns may, once again, bring about unforeseen and unintended consequences, Emeke Moneme and Karyn LeBlanc have committed to monitor traffic issues in the neighborhood and to conduct a review sometime in the next 6 months. Accordingly, please bring to our attention issues that may need DDOT's further attention or "tweaking" so that we can assure that our neighborhood is both safe and traffic moves with relative ease in the area.
Our thanks again to all of you for your support and perseverance during the past few years.
Ad Hoc Coalition for Safe Streets in ANC3E
The barrier was erected in December of 2004. Since then, we--with the widespread support of the neighborhood-- have been working for its removal because it never responded effectively to its claimed purpose--to improve safety at the intersection. The unintended but foreseeable impact of the barrier was to simply redirect traffic, shifting it from a collector street onto other streets in the neighborhood and creating new safety and traffic concerns elsewhere.
While we are delighted with the removal of the barrier and appreciate the efforts made by DDOT officials in the past few months, the fact that it took over three years to resolve this issue is a sad reflection of the way in which the city government deals with issues such as this. We hope that some lessons have been learned from this experience, most notably the need for DC government officials to consult with the ANC and neighborhood residents BEFORE any action is taken. If the neighborhood had had the opportunity to meaningfully address the concerns about the intersection prior to the implementation of ill-conceived solutions, we believe that a better solution would have been arrived at--and more importantly--would have avoided the polarization that has too often characterized discussions regarding the barrier. We have been heartened by the responsiveness of DDOT's new director, Emeke Moneme and Karyn LeBlanc, who has spearheaded the barrier's removal on behalf of DDOT, and hope that their effort signals a new willingness on the part of DDOT to work with the community and to consult with residents and the ANC before making any changes that will have a significant impact on our traffic .
Even now, the removal of the barrier is not without its price. While we have hopefully seen the last of any barrier, the community is faced with increasing number of turn restrictions from River Road. While this may be a reasonable price to pay, all of us may find that the increased traffic restrictions most detrimentally affect those of us who live in the area, not others who traverse our neighborhood. Because the effects of the new traffic patterns may, once again, bring about unforeseen and unintended consequences, Emeke Moneme and Karyn LeBlanc have committed to monitor traffic issues in the neighborhood and to conduct a review sometime in the next 6 months. Accordingly, please bring to our attention issues that may need DDOT's further attention or "tweaking" so that we can assure that our neighborhood is both safe and traffic moves with relative ease in the area.
Our thanks again to all of you for your support and perseverance during the past few years.
Ad Hoc Coalition for Safe Streets in ANC3E
Friday, July 27, 2007
DCPL Chooses Tenley Library Architectural Team
During a press conference today at the Anacostia Interim Library, Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper announced that Davis
Brody Bond Aedas and The Freelon Group, Inc., in partnership with local architect R. McGhee & Associates, have been selected to lead the architectural design teams for the new Anacostia, Benning, Tenley-Friendship and Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Neighborhood Libraries. Both teams include local firms as consultants for civil, landscaping, and mechanical, electrical, plumbing services, which comprise more than 40% of each design team. Construction on the combined $37 million library
project is scheduled to begin in mid summer 2008, with the libraries due to open in 2010.
The architectural teams were chosen because they exceeded standards set forth by the D.C. Public Library and the District's Office of Contracts and Procurement (OCP). The standards included having experience in designing modern libraries, experience with sustainable design and could meet the city's new LEED standards, creating spaces that inspire human interaction, having effectively worked with community groups to develop design, and having a sizeable portion of the design
team include local LSDBE firms. The teams were selected from more than 60 firms that are part of the Library and OCP's design firm database.
"With these great architects and engineers, we will design exceptional spaces for neighborhood libraries in the District of
Columbia. I am eager to begin the building process with these talented teams," said Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper. "The neighborhood libraries are so important. We are committed to opening wonderful libraries and to involving the neighbors the process."
The Freelon Group, Inc. and R. McGhee & Associates Team, which includes local consultants Delon Hampton, John J. Christie and Associates, and L.S. Caldwell & Associates, will design the Anacostia Neighborhood Library and Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library.
The new libraries will be designed as stand-alone buildings. They will be designed larger than the existing branch libraries and in the range of 18,000 – 20,000 square feet.
The Freelon Group, Inc., has been involved in a range of projects diverse in scale, building type and scope. The firm has specialized design expertise in the areas of Libraries, Science and Technology, and Museum/Cultural Center facilities. Some of their recent design work includes the Durham County Regional Library Prototype - East and North Branches, NC; Museum of the African Diaspora, San Francisco, CA; Sonja Haynes Stone Black Cultural Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. R. McGhee & Associates, a local Washington, DC firm, has joined The Freelon Group, Inc., on the architectural design team.
Philip Freelon, President of The Freelon Group, said, "The community will play an integral part in the design phase – engaging the community is a needed hands-on part of the process. We really focus in on projects that have a tangible, positive impact on the community in which they are located."
Ronnie McGhee, Principal of R. McGhee & Associates, said, "We look forward to getting involved with community groups to find out what your needs are so that the new libraries are signature pieces within the neighborhoods."
Above and beyond the basic services of civil engineering, architectural design, structural engineering and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design, the teams also are required to provide eleven additional design services, eight of which are library-related. The additional design services include: site planning and urban design; interior design; landscape design; audio-visual and broadcast technology design; lighting design; communications/data systems; vertical transportation; code consulting; ADA consulting; security systems design; and cost estimating.
The team will be managed by the D.C. Public Library's Capital Construction department and contract specialists within OCP. The design and community input phase of the building project will begin on August 1 and will take approximately 10 months to complete.
Brody Bond Aedas and The Freelon Group, Inc., in partnership with local architect R. McGhee & Associates, have been selected to lead the architectural design teams for the new Anacostia, Benning, Tenley-Friendship and Watha T. Daniel/Shaw Neighborhood Libraries. Both teams include local firms as consultants for civil, landscaping, and mechanical, electrical, plumbing services, which comprise more than 40% of each design team. Construction on the combined $37 million library
project is scheduled to begin in mid summer 2008, with the libraries due to open in 2010.
The architectural teams were chosen because they exceeded standards set forth by the D.C. Public Library and the District's Office of Contracts and Procurement (OCP). The standards included having experience in designing modern libraries, experience with sustainable design and could meet the city's new LEED standards, creating spaces that inspire human interaction, having effectively worked with community groups to develop design, and having a sizeable portion of the design
team include local LSDBE firms. The teams were selected from more than 60 firms that are part of the Library and OCP's design firm database.
"With these great architects and engineers, we will design exceptional spaces for neighborhood libraries in the District of
Columbia. I am eager to begin the building process with these talented teams," said Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper. "The neighborhood libraries are so important. We are committed to opening wonderful libraries and to involving the neighbors the process."
The Freelon Group, Inc. and R. McGhee & Associates Team, which includes local consultants Delon Hampton, John J. Christie and Associates, and L.S. Caldwell & Associates, will design the Anacostia Neighborhood Library and Tenley-Friendship Neighborhood Library.
The new libraries will be designed as stand-alone buildings. They will be designed larger than the existing branch libraries and in the range of 18,000 – 20,000 square feet.
The Freelon Group, Inc., has been involved in a range of projects diverse in scale, building type and scope. The firm has specialized design expertise in the areas of Libraries, Science and Technology, and Museum/Cultural Center facilities. Some of their recent design work includes the Durham County Regional Library Prototype - East and North Branches, NC; Museum of the African Diaspora, San Francisco, CA; Sonja Haynes Stone Black Cultural Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. R. McGhee & Associates, a local Washington, DC firm, has joined The Freelon Group, Inc., on the architectural design team.
Philip Freelon, President of The Freelon Group, said, "The community will play an integral part in the design phase – engaging the community is a needed hands-on part of the process. We really focus in on projects that have a tangible, positive impact on the community in which they are located."
Ronnie McGhee, Principal of R. McGhee & Associates, said, "We look forward to getting involved with community groups to find out what your needs are so that the new libraries are signature pieces within the neighborhoods."
Above and beyond the basic services of civil engineering, architectural design, structural engineering and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design, the teams also are required to provide eleven additional design services, eight of which are library-related. The additional design services include: site planning and urban design; interior design; landscape design; audio-visual and broadcast technology design; lighting design; communications/data systems; vertical transportation; code consulting; ADA consulting; security systems design; and cost estimating.
The team will be managed by the D.C. Public Library's Capital Construction department and contract specialists within OCP. The design and community input phase of the building project will begin on August 1 and will take approximately 10 months to complete.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Vandals take to Stoddert
From ANC 3B:
There is a recurring problem at Stoddert Elementary School. It appears that either a gang (FMC) or some other group have taken up Stoddert as their evening home. Last week they threw a brick through a classroom window and this week they have placed graffiti on school property and have littered the garden and back area of the school with beer bottles. They are also burning pizza boxes and fireworks. Yesterday they left a hate message for the school kids. They set up chairs and couches each night which are removed each morning. The school system and the police have been alerted.
If anyone sees anything suspicious going on at the school, please report it to the police right away.
There is a recurring problem at Stoddert Elementary School. It appears that either a gang (FMC) or some other group have taken up Stoddert as their evening home. Last week they threw a brick through a classroom window and this week they have placed graffiti on school property and have littered the garden and back area of the school with beer bottles. They are also burning pizza boxes and fireworks. Yesterday they left a hate message for the school kids. They set up chairs and couches each night which are removed each morning. The school system and the police have been alerted.
If anyone sees anything suspicious going on at the school, please report it to the police right away.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Uptown Theater Expands Business
ANC 3C Commissioner Bruce Beckner posted posted potentially shattering news to the Cleveland Park Listserv:
It appears that our neighborhood theater will soon be no more. I just received a call from a City Paper reporter asking what I knew about the sale of the Uptown to the McLean Bible Church (nothing until he called). Here's a link to the church's website with information about their planned use: http://www.mcleanbible.org/pages/page.asp?page_id=18091
Off the top of my head, I don't see much of a "regulatory hook" for this, other than the fact that the church will have to get Historic Preservation Review Board approval for any changes to the exterior. I believe the commercial zoning that applies to this area probably permits this use, whether it's considered "religious" or not.
Assuming this is true, it means that Cleveland Parkers will no longer have the pleasure of having a movie theater within walking distance.
My personal recollection of the first time I was at the Uptown was in 1963, when I saw "How the West was Won" there in "Cinerama" - a 3-projector system that used a semicircular movie screen. I think the Uptown was the only theater in the DC metro area that had that at the time. I also saw the Stanley Kubrick "2001 - A Space Odyssey" there in 1967, also in "Cinerama."
I'll keep folks posted of any further developments that I learn.
Bruce Beckner
Commissioner ANC3C05
According to the Church's website:
MBC Uptown is a Community Campus of McLean Bible Church. It will impact the District of Columbia and nearby communities in both Maryland and Northern Virginia.
Ministries at MBC Uptown will include:
Videocast messages by Lon Solomon and the MBC Teaching Team
Worship led by the MBC Worship Leaders and Bands
Localized ministry teams and outreach events
Opportunities to connect in biblical community with others who live in the DC metro area
Weekly services will start in January 2008.
In fact, the Uptown has not been sold. As featured on the DCDL website, an official response from the Church:
Keith,
I am writing to clarify our, McLean Bible Church's, intended use for the Uptown Theater. We are not purchasing the theater. We are simply renting it on Sunday mornings. As such, our use will not limit public use of the theater. We realize the place that the Uptown holds in the heart of the community and are committed to developing services and ministries that are
fitting for the Uptown and for Cleveland Park.
Mike Hurt
McLean Bible Church
Director of Community Campus Development
UPDATE: Here is Washington Post coverage.
It appears that our neighborhood theater will soon be no more. I just received a call from a City Paper reporter asking what I knew about the sale of the Uptown to the McLean Bible Church (nothing until he called). Here's a link to the church's website with information about their planned use: http://www.mcleanbible.org/pages/page.asp?page_id=18091
Off the top of my head, I don't see much of a "regulatory hook" for this, other than the fact that the church will have to get Historic Preservation Review Board approval for any changes to the exterior. I believe the commercial zoning that applies to this area probably permits this use, whether it's considered "religious" or not.
Assuming this is true, it means that Cleveland Parkers will no longer have the pleasure of having a movie theater within walking distance.
My personal recollection of the first time I was at the Uptown was in 1963, when I saw "How the West was Won" there in "Cinerama" - a 3-projector system that used a semicircular movie screen. I think the Uptown was the only theater in the DC metro area that had that at the time. I also saw the Stanley Kubrick "2001 - A Space Odyssey" there in 1967, also in "Cinerama."
I'll keep folks posted of any further developments that I learn.
Bruce Beckner
Commissioner ANC3C05
According to the Church's website:
MBC Uptown is a Community Campus of McLean Bible Church. It will impact the District of Columbia and nearby communities in both Maryland and Northern Virginia.
Ministries at MBC Uptown will include:
Videocast messages by Lon Solomon and the MBC Teaching Team
Worship led by the MBC Worship Leaders and Bands
Localized ministry teams and outreach events
Opportunities to connect in biblical community with others who live in the DC metro area
Weekly services will start in January 2008.
In fact, the Uptown has not been sold. As featured on the DCDL website, an official response from the Church:
Keith,
I am writing to clarify our, McLean Bible Church's, intended use for the Uptown Theater. We are not purchasing the theater. We are simply renting it on Sunday mornings. As such, our use will not limit public use of the theater. We realize the place that the Uptown holds in the heart of the community and are committed to developing services and ministries that are
fitting for the Uptown and for Cleveland Park.
Mike Hurt
McLean Bible Church
Director of Community Campus Development
UPDATE: Here is Washington Post coverage.
Cheh Cleared of Wrongdoing by OCF
Yolanda Woodlee of the Washington Post reports that the allegations brought by former Ward 3 Candidate Jonathan R. Rees against Councilmember Mary Cheh have been dismissed. The report can be accessed via the OCF website.
Rees filed the complaint in February alleging then Candidate Cheh received preferential rent on campaign office space from a local developer, and further that an unregistered Political Action Committee illegally benefitted the Cheh campaign.
The Office of Campaign Finance report summarizes:
To highlight the issue of the existence of a political committee, during the 2006 elections in the District of Columbia, a group of Ward 3 residents, friends and neighbors, came together to interview the candidates seeking election to the Ward 3 Council seat to determine the best qualified candidate to represent their Ward, because the field was so crowded. These individuals held meetings, contacted the candidates to schedule interviews, prepared questions for the interviews to glean the candidates’ positions on issues of interest to the group; and ultimately decided to support Mary Cheh.
D.C. Official Code §1-1101.01(5) defines the term “political committee” to mean any proposer, individual, committee (including a principal campaign committee) club, association, organization, or other group of individuals organized for the purpose of or engaged in: promoting or opposing a political party, promoting or opposing the nomination or election of an individual to office, or promoting or opposing any initiative, referendum, or recall”. The group identified as “Ward 3 Action” did not engage in activity that falls within the above referenced definition. While it may be viewed that “Ward 3 Action” formed to determine the best qualified candidate to represent their Ward, these neighbors and friends did not engage in any activity that clearly extends beyond arriving at a determination of who was the “best qualified” candidate. The group did not solicit contributions or make expenditures to promote the nomination of any one candidate to office.
After Cheh became the group’s choice, the group dispersed prior to the conduct of the Primary Election. Individuals associated with the group then proceeded to promote her candidacy in their individual capacity by contributing financially to the Cheh Principal Campaign Committee. In addition, a number of the members of the group were employed and paid by the Cheh Campaign to perform services...
When the group selected Cheh as their candidate and thereafter dispersed, these residents expressed their selection of Cheh and their commitment to support her candidacy in the handbill entitled, “Why We Support Mary Cheh For Ward 3 Council”. The goal of Ward 3 Action was accomplished.
WHEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED this matter be dismissed in its totality; and IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the fine in this matter is hereby suspended.
This Order may be appealed to the D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics within 15 days from the date of issuance.
The Washington Post quoted Mr. Rees as having no intention of filing an appeal. According to DCist that statement pertained to the OCF. He has not ruled out an appeal to the judicial system.
How many taxpayer funded hours were (and will be) wasted on this effort?
Rees filed the complaint in February alleging then Candidate Cheh received preferential rent on campaign office space from a local developer, and further that an unregistered Political Action Committee illegally benefitted the Cheh campaign.
The Office of Campaign Finance report summarizes:
To highlight the issue of the existence of a political committee, during the 2006 elections in the District of Columbia, a group of Ward 3 residents, friends and neighbors, came together to interview the candidates seeking election to the Ward 3 Council seat to determine the best qualified candidate to represent their Ward, because the field was so crowded. These individuals held meetings, contacted the candidates to schedule interviews, prepared questions for the interviews to glean the candidates’ positions on issues of interest to the group; and ultimately decided to support Mary Cheh.
D.C. Official Code §1-1101.01(5) defines the term “political committee” to mean any proposer, individual, committee (including a principal campaign committee) club, association, organization, or other group of individuals organized for the purpose of or engaged in: promoting or opposing a political party, promoting or opposing the nomination or election of an individual to office, or promoting or opposing any initiative, referendum, or recall”. The group identified as “Ward 3 Action” did not engage in activity that falls within the above referenced definition. While it may be viewed that “Ward 3 Action” formed to determine the best qualified candidate to represent their Ward, these neighbors and friends did not engage in any activity that clearly extends beyond arriving at a determination of who was the “best qualified” candidate. The group did not solicit contributions or make expenditures to promote the nomination of any one candidate to office.
After Cheh became the group’s choice, the group dispersed prior to the conduct of the Primary Election. Individuals associated with the group then proceeded to promote her candidacy in their individual capacity by contributing financially to the Cheh Principal Campaign Committee. In addition, a number of the members of the group were employed and paid by the Cheh Campaign to perform services...
When the group selected Cheh as their candidate and thereafter dispersed, these residents expressed their selection of Cheh and their commitment to support her candidacy in the handbill entitled, “Why We Support Mary Cheh For Ward 3 Council”. The goal of Ward 3 Action was accomplished.
WHEREFORE, IT IS ORDERED this matter be dismissed in its totality; and IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the fine in this matter is hereby suspended.
This Order may be appealed to the D.C. Board of Elections and Ethics within 15 days from the date of issuance.
The Washington Post quoted Mr. Rees as having no intention of filing an appeal. According to DCist that statement pertained to the OCF. He has not ruled out an appeal to the judicial system.
How many taxpayer funded hours were (and will be) wasted on this effort?
Ward 3 Man Suffers Environmental Hate Crime
Allison Klein of The Washington Post reports a hate crime not seen in Ward 3 before.
A resident in a "liberal" part of Brandywine Street had his Hummer vandalized be so-called eco-terrorists.
There are many more productive ways to express frustration over consumptive excess.
A resident in a "liberal" part of Brandywine Street had his Hummer vandalized be so-called eco-terrorists.
There are many more productive ways to express frustration over consumptive excess.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Tribute to a local Firefighter.
The Tenleytown firefighter who died in the line of duty will be buried on Saturday, July 14. At approximately 2:05 pm, the traditional firefighter funeral procession will pass the quarters of Engine 20 where James McRae served.
McRae passed away on July 7th. He was the tillerman for Tenleytown's Truck 12 and was on duty when he suffered chest pains and was subsequently pronounced at the Washington Hostpital Center.
The procession starts at the convention center, proceeding out Massachusettes Avenue, turning north onto Wisconsin Avenue to pass the Tenley Firehouse. It will then turn right on Tenley Circle to Nebraska Avenue, right on Connecticut Avenue returning downtown and from there to the cemetery.
Viewing the procession is an opportunity for the neighbors to participate in a solemn tribute to our lost firefighter.
Courtesy ANC 3E Commissioner Amy McVey
McRae passed away on July 7th. He was the tillerman for Tenleytown's Truck 12 and was on duty when he suffered chest pains and was subsequently pronounced at the Washington Hostpital Center.
The procession starts at the convention center, proceeding out Massachusettes Avenue, turning north onto Wisconsin Avenue to pass the Tenley Firehouse. It will then turn right on Tenley Circle to Nebraska Avenue, right on Connecticut Avenue returning downtown and from there to the cemetery.
Viewing the procession is an opportunity for the neighbors to participate in a solemn tribute to our lost firefighter.
Courtesy ANC 3E Commissioner Amy McVey
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Express: The Russian Embassy's New Colorful Wall
Courtesy of Michael Grass, The Washington Post/Express:
THE RUSSIANS' ICONIC WHITE MARBLE embassy complex in Glover Park has acquired some color: yellow.
The new hue is featured on the massive wall protecting the giant campus' backside along Tunlaw Road. The change is worth noting, since the embassy complex — whose main building is similar to the Russian parliament house in Moscow — has long been known for its drab, almost prison-like look, at least from the Tunlaw side. (We'll see if China's new compound under construction on Van Ness Street NW will snatch the prize for looking most like a lockup when it's done.)
A neighborhood source tells us that the wall was painted by hand — no power painting tools were used. Try doing that in last week's heat.
Who knows, the change could have unintended effects. Neighbors have complained about speeding along that stretch of Tunlaw Road. Maybe the yellow wall will draw the attention of drivers and get them to slow down, if just for a moment.
THE RUSSIANS' ICONIC WHITE MARBLE embassy complex in Glover Park has acquired some color: yellow.
The new hue is featured on the massive wall protecting the giant campus' backside along Tunlaw Road. The change is worth noting, since the embassy complex — whose main building is similar to the Russian parliament house in Moscow — has long been known for its drab, almost prison-like look, at least from the Tunlaw side. (We'll see if China's new compound under construction on Van Ness Street NW will snatch the prize for looking most like a lockup when it's done.)
A neighborhood source tells us that the wall was painted by hand — no power painting tools were used. Try doing that in last week's heat.
Who knows, the change could have unintended effects. Neighbors have complained about speeding along that stretch of Tunlaw Road. Maybe the yellow wall will draw the attention of drivers and get them to slow down, if just for a moment.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Examiner reports on Cleveland Park Vacancies
Michael Nelbauer wrote a nice article published in the Examiner today about the ongoing struggle between vacant store fronts and opposition to new food establishments in Cleveland Park. Opposition may be strong word, perhaps 'enforcement of zoning restrictions' might be more appropriate.
Of particular note to me was the verification of the rumor about a mattress store coming to the neighborhood:
For now, he said, Federal Realty has stopped marketing the strip to boutique coffee and sandwich shops. It is, however, being pursued by a mattress store.
I suppose the discussion about development in the Tenley to Friendship Height corridor has come full circle.
Of particular note to me was the verification of the rumor about a mattress store coming to the neighborhood:
For now, he said, Federal Realty has stopped marketing the strip to boutique coffee and sandwich shops. It is, however, being pursued by a mattress store.
I suppose the discussion about development in the Tenley to Friendship Height corridor has come full circle.
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Palisades Parade turns 41
The Washington Post July 4th insert has a nice review of this DC and Ward 3 staple.
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