Link roundup

Washingtonian released their top 100 very best restaurants list and Ethiopic (401 H St) and The Atlas Room (1015 H St) both made the cut.  The January issue also has a nice "Best of H Street" guide that highlights 13 local businesses.

We Love DC returned to Smith Commons (1245 H St) and still kinda loves it.  It's hard to believe they've still only been open a little under a year.

Pamela's Punch checks out Shawafel (1322 H St) and left big fans.

The Hill is Home had a nice preview of Atlas Vets (1326 H St), which should be opening early 2012.

The Washington Post reports that DC is growing faster than any state in the country with dramatic growth over the past year and a half since the census was conducted.

Mike Neibauer of the Washington Business Journal reported that Councilmember Mary Cheh briefly held up the DDOT contracts for additional streetcars needed to run the H Street line.  Cheh subsequently released her hold according to an update from Neibauer.

Frozen Tropics says a "women's boutique" is coming in above Philadelphia Water Ice at 1204 H St.

Kherpa's Raw Foods - a raw foods store is now open at 402 H St on weekends.

The Big Board (421 H St) announced they are opening for lunch Monday-Friday starting this Monday, January 2, at 11 am.

The Atlas Room (1015 H St) is stopping Sunday brunch service for the time being, but planning on starting Monday dinner service soon.

The next H Street Bakes will be Sunday, January 22, 11:30 am at the Big Board (421 H St).

Opening Menu for Boundary Road (Coming early 2012 to 414 H St)

We've told you before that we're pretty excited about Boundary Road -- a neighborhood American Bistro coming to 414 H Street NE early next year noting that among other places, the Chef has cooked at great restaurants including, Central, Proof, Cashion's and Fiola, while the GM's background includes popular Columbia Heights beer tavern Meridian Pint.  Now we can share another reason we're excited -- their current draft of the opening menu looks awesome.  The full menu is after the jump.

H Street Holiday Guide

Here are just a few quick ideas for getting festive and doing some last minute buying local holiday shopping in the neighborhood. 

-Hit Sidamo for some fresh roasted beans, which make a great stocking stuffer & ship well.
-Grab pies from Dangerously Delicious are great for hosting holiday parties or taking home.
-Contact H Street Bakes' Kim Moffatt and order one of her delightful baked goods.  cuckoobananascheesecake@gmail.com
-Metro Mutts has whatever your might need for your pet or any pet-loving family & friends.
-Healthy Motions Massage -- Did you know there was a great spot to get a massage at 7th & K NE?  They've been running a sale on pre holiday gift certificates for 60 minute treatments recently. 
-How about a special holiday dinner?  Ethiopic, the Atlas Room, and Smith Commons all have a great vibe and delicious food.
-Last time I checked there was still a little Great Lakes Christmas Ale to be enjoyed at the Pug and its now on tap at Smith Commons as well
-Black Nativity at the H Street Playhouse. It's getting great reviews and selling out ahead of time.
-The Atlas has Matt Wilson's Jazz Holiday Tree-0 tonight.
-Donate to your favorite nonprofit.  Three of our DC favorites are Casey Trees, the Atlas Performing Arts Center, and The Capitol Hill Community Foundation.  There's also a spot doing Christmas donation collection for those in need at the Hechinger mall.  It's always nice to remember to give back this time of year, especially to those in need.

Cheers and happy holidays!

Several new spots to eat, drink & enjoy music coming to H Street between 10th & 14th

There's been a flurry of new applications to open restaurants along the eastern half of H Street in recent weeks.  While many of the new businesses have been relatively quiet, here's a quick preview of the most recent additions to our coming soon to H Street list. 

HR-57 is moving from 816 H Street to 1007-1009 H Street and plans to open a cafe in the front of the new buildings.  Tony Pusean has had a lease on these buildings since before he opened HR-57 in its current location and has always intended to move it here and to open another music venue, which he's described to us in the past as a Blues spot at 816 H St.  What's new is the plans to install a cafe called Alchemy in the front of the shop.  Look for regular cafe hours with 7 am opening, caffeinated beverages, house roasted coffee beans, and fresh pastries early next year.  These 1007-1009 buildings are single story in height and not especially impressive from the street, but we understand HR-57 plans to make some changes to improve the facades, including adding windows and french doors.  The new venue for HR-57 will also have a full kitchen and a larger capacity.  Once HR-57 is open, they'll start getting the blues spot, which will be called Be Bop Cafe ready to go at 816 H.

1128 H Street was formerly home to Naby's Island at the NW corner of 12th & H and will be home Casbah an Indian/Pakistani (South Asian) restaurant next year.  The owners have applied to use the public space along 12th Street for al fresco dining and plan to add additional windows along 12th Street as well with the possibility of an outdoor bar area, akin to what the Argonaut added after the fire. 

1200 H Street was previously considered a possibility for a wine, cheese, and hookah bar, but now appears destined to be a Mediterranean restaurant.  We understand this was from the current owner of Souk. 

1251 H Street was until recently home to Danny's carryout, next door to Smith Commons.  It's now going to be the permanent home to Sol Mexican Grill.  Sol already operates a food truck by that name.  They plan to use both of the building's two levels with a casual dining space downstairs and a tequileria upstairs offering 100 tequilas and sit down dining.
1255 H Street was until recently home to a store specializing in incense and scented oils.  That store has reopened on the 1400 block of H Street and the building has been sold.  The new owners of the building plan a restaurant called The Spot specializing in Latin American cuisine and have some changes to the building planned as well.  The restaurant will be large and will use both floors and plan to install a roof garden deck.  There will also be cooking classes in the back of the building.

1324 H Street is slated to be home to Chicken Tortilla. This will be the second outpost of a Barracks Row rotisserie Peruvian chicken restaurant.  The restaurant is slated for the building next door to Shawafel.  Taylor Charles Steak & Ice -- the cheesesteak spot from the Taylor Gourmet guys -- is planned for the other side of Shawafel.

Finally, we don't yet know what type of business will open at 1216-1218 H Street, but the construction of the new building here has resumed after some permitting issues held it up.  We're told the new building will be in full compliance with the H Street Overlay and applicable zoning.

These venues join already in the works Taylor Charles Steak & Ice (1320 H St) (Philly Cheesesteaks), Impala (1358 H St) (Mexican), and a new spot from Ben's Chili Bowl (1001 H St) in the long and growing list of new restaurants coming to the eastern half of H Street next year.

Link roundup

The Washington Business Journal reported that streetcars number 4 and 5 for the H Street line have been ordered.  The first three came from the Czechs, but for these two DDOT got a better price offer from United Streetcar, LLC in Portland.

DDOT will be updating the community on the streetcar line's interim termini and Union Station connection tonight, 6 pm, at the Atlas.

Bitches Who Brunch really liked Sticky Rice's (1224 H St) Sakimosas and Crab Sticky Balls, but said it was the "glorious sushi" that made for "the brunch win."

Roll Call checks out the Big Board (421 H St).  Apparently, they are getting ready to start lunch service soon.

The Washington Post's Tim Carman reports that Taylor Charles Steak & Ice (1320 H St) -- the Philly cheesesteak spot from the Taylor Gourmet guys has run into some structural problems with their building, which has delayed their targeted opening until Spring.

DC Urban Turf has a nice piece on Popularise.com the site from the WestMill Capital group that is soliciting input for the 1351 H St property they recently purchased.  These are the same folks who also recently acquired the Autozone property on the 1200 block of H Street.  Popular ideas for the site include Durkl clothing store and a Red Rocks pizzeria (both businesses are looking to relocate to H Street and are interested in this site), a gym, a bagel shop, a bakery, and some other good ideas for this site or another on H Street.

Frozen Tropics has begun rounding up some of the NYE options on H Street.

ANC6A has committee meetings this week.  Tonight 7 pm, at Sherwood, the Alcohol Licensing Committee reviews applications for new spots at 1007 H St, 1128 H St, 1200 H St, 1253 H St, 1251 H St, and 1324 H St.  Tomorrow 7 pm, at Sherwood, the Economic Development & Zoning Committee review a request for zoning relief to allow a gas station at 1400 Maryland. 

Don't drink & drive, take free soberride now thru NYE any time after 10 pm

The weather outside may be frightening, but that doesn’t mean the roads need to be.

If you partake in a bit too much mulled wine, “mystery punch” or adult eggnog over the Holiday season, stay safe and call SoberRide this holiday season!

Together withthe Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) SoberRide initiative,AT&T once again is proud to provide free taxi rides (up to $30) to anyone over 21 in the greater Washington, DC area nightly from 10pm until 6am through New Years Day.

AT&T customers can call #TAXI to get a safe, free ride home, while others can dial 800-200-TAXI.

WRAP's SoberRide provides greater Washington, DC residents a safe way home on high-risk holidays, including the December/January holiday season, St. Patrick’s Day, Independence Day and Halloween.

For more details on WRAP’s 2011 Holiday SoberRide program or information on WRAP, visit their website here.

Reminder: Streetcar Meeting w/ DDOT re: interim termini / Union Station Connection tmrw 6 pm @ the Atlas

H Street - Benning Road Streetcar Line Workshop

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is hosting a workshop on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 to seek public input on the proposed interim connection to Union Station and the various architectural elements that are under consideration for the operations base and maintenance facility that is planned for 26th Street and Benning Road, NE. DDOT will also share details about the overhead wire installation, and supporting poles, and the substations along the line. What: H Street/Benning Road Streetcar Line Workshop When: Tuesday, December 20, 2011, 6 pm – 7:30 pm Where: The Atlas Performing Arts Center (1333 H Street, NE) Metro: Red Line (Union Station) Bus Lines: X2, X8, X9 (X9 service ends at 6:30 pm) Bikeshare: There is a station at 13th and H Street, NE For more information about this workshop please contact the DC Streetcar Team at 1-855-413-2954 or dcstreetcar@dc.gov. The materials presented at this workshop will also be made available online at www.dcstreetcar.com.

Order holiday treats from Kim Moffatt of H Street Bakes fame

Did you know Kim Moffatt of H Street Bakes fame (and the pastry chef behind the desserts at Granville Moore's and the Big Board) is a neighborhood resident who'll bake for you by order?  She's offering up some seasonal treats for anyone who needs something last minute for their holiday gatherings. 
Here are a few last minute dessert options for Christmas and New Years!

* White Chocolate Candy Cane Cheesecake
* Gingerbread Bundt Cake
* Oatmeal Awesome Pie
* Champagne Cheesecake
* Belgian Chocolate Fudge Tart

Happy Holidays!!!!
Kimmie
cuckoobananascheesecake@gmail.com

Reminder: Meeting on H Street Retail Grants tonight, 6:30 pm at 11th & H

Want to open a retail business on H Street?  Be sure to attend tonight's meeting on the grant program that is awarding up to $85,000 to bring new retail small businesses to the corridor.

Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development

Notice of Pre-application Information Session

 

H Street, NE, Retail Priority Area Grant Program

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) will hold a Pre-Application Informational Session on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 6:30pm at the Douglas Memorial United Methodist Church at 800 11^th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002.

The purpose of the Pre-Application Information Session is to answer questions about the H Street, NE Retail Priority Area Grant Program, authorized by the “H Street, N.E., Retail Priority Area Incentive Act of 2010 effective April 8, 2011 (D.C. Law 18-354; D.C. Official Code § 1-325.171 et seq.).

Applicants must submit a completed application to DMPED by Wednesday, January 4^th, 2012 at 5:00 p.m.

Applications are available at the DMPED website: dcbiz.dc.gov.

To obtain a hard copy of the application and for all other inquiries, please contact LaToyia Hampton, Grants Manager, at (202) 724-7648 or latoyia.hampton@dc.gov.

Grant funds purpose and availability:

The purpose of the H Street, N.E., Retail Priority Area Grant (H Street RPAG) is to support small business development, increase the tax base and create new jobs for District Residents along the H Street corridor. DMPED is allocated $1,250,000 and will be awarding individual grants up to a maximum of $85,000 each to support and foster growth amongst small businesses along the corridor. Grant funds may be utilized to reimburse the grantee for the purposes of improving the subject property or purchasing equipment that will be used onsite.

A Notice of Funding Availability (“NOFA”) was published in the D.C. Register on August 18, 2011 and the Request for Applications was released on Monday, September 12^th, 2011. The initial deadline for applications was October 26, 2011. A second opportunity to submit applications is currently underway, with a deadline of January 4, 2012 at 5:00pm. 

Eligible organizations and entities:

Eligible applicants include retail businesses engaged in the sale of home furnishings, apparel, books, art, groceries, and general merchandise goods to specialized customers. Special consideration shall be given to retail developments that include entrepreneurial and innovative retail elements. Eligible retail development projects shall not include liquor stores, restaurants, nightclubs, hair salons, barber shops, and phone stores.

Eligible applicants must possess all of the following prior to an award being made:

1. Site control of the property either through fee simple ownership of the site or through an executed contract or lease with the property owner;
2. Direct frontage on the H Street, N.E., corridor from 3^rd  Street, N.E., to 15^th  Street, N.E.;
3. Total retail space which is not less than 1,200 square feet;
4. Adherence to design, construction, and rehabilitation requirements as defined by DMPED per the Great Streets Initiative.

Link roundup

Eat More Drink More gives a big thumbs up to Toki Underground.
Black Nativity at the H Street Playhouse is getting great reviews from
Examiner.com, MD Theatre Guide and DC Theatre Scene.

DC Eater says Taylor Charles Steak & Ice (1320 H St) is expected to bring Philly-style cheesesteaks to H Street this spring.

Popularise.com was launched by the folks behind Westmill Capital (who owns the Autozone property & 1351 H Street).  They're asking for your input on what to bring to 1351 H Street and elsewhere.  Urban Turf & Housing Complex have articles on the concept.  Current leaders for 1351 H Street are Durkl Men's Clothing and Red Rocks Pizza.  Other suggestions include a gym, a home goods spot, a diner, and a salad place.

Frozen Tropics reports on a holiday pajama drive.  Donate some PJs for the needy at Evolve Property Management (1344 H St)

District Cuisine reviews Pho Bar & Grill (1360 H St).

Bikeshare stations have arrived at 6th & H and 11th & H.

DDOT installs Bikeshare stations at 6th & H and 11th & H today

Thanks, to the DC Department of Transportation, H Street is now well-served by Capital Bikeshare with two new bikeshare stations installed at 6th & H and 11th & H today.  Both stations have been planned since Bikeshare was launched over a year ago and received lots of votes at the public input hearing on where Bikeshare should expand.  Additional stations are expected to be installed at 6th & Florida (near Gallaudet) and 7th & Maryland (near the NE Branch Library & Stanton Park) before long.

7th St neighbors seek your help in negotiating agreement w/ proposed Xclusive Restaurant & Lounge at 707 H St

Xclusive Restaurant & Lounge is seeking a Tavern Class liquor license to operate at 707 H Street.  Several neighbors have organized a petition to encourage them to enter into an agreement to mitigate the impact they would have on the surrounding neighborhood.  Of particular note to the neighbors, is the applicant's request to serve alcohol until 3 am on a stretch of H Street where there are currently no places serving alcohol.  If you'd like to join the neighbors' request that the applicant work with the neighborhood to establish some basic ground rules for its operation, please read and sign their petition.

ANC6C December 15 Meeting Agenda

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6C

December 15, 2011, 7 pm, Heritage Foundation

214 Massachusetts Avenue N.E.

DRAFT AGENDA

Call to order,

Quorum

Approval of agenda

Approval of November minutes

Treasurer’s report

Business cards for Commissioner Goodman

Brief Community and Commissioner Announcements

            1.  Councilmember Jack Evans, Ward cooperation

            2.  Flora Lerenman, Youth and Education chairmanship

3.  Footsteps of Children Child Development Center, 342 8^th Street NE – Donna Muhammad, Yvonne Steward

            4.  Capitol Hill Classic, May 20, 2012 – Mike Soderman

            5.  World Mission Society Church of God – Jeffrey Jakes

            6.  Thank yous

Grants Liaison (Commissioner Crews, chair)

            No business this month

Transportation and Public Space Committee (Joe McCann, chair)

            1.  Proposed changes along K Street NE – Comm. Goodman

            2.  1050 First Street NE, curb cuts on L Street NE – Trammell Crow

            3.  Sale of public alley behind 21 Seventh Street NE – David Gemcarelli

            4.  Stop signs at 6^th and I Streets NE – Comm. Goodman

Planning, Zoning, and Environment Committee (Rob Amos, chair)

1.  644 C Street NE, rear two-story addition – Nathan Darling

2.  616-640 New York Ave NW and 611-627 K Street NW, office and retail

 building  – Jeff Utz

3.  704 Third Street NW, modifications to existing building - John Epting

4.  1235 Fourth Street NW, single family home – Sergei Mikhailov

5. 2332, 1234, 1236 New Jersey Ave NW – raze request, Mayor’s Agent hearing

6.  Crucible update, 16 M Street NE – Comm Goodman

Alcohol Beverage Committee (Commissioner Wilsey, chair)  

            Hikari Sushi and Sake Bar – Edward Grandis    

Next Meeting

            TBA

Meeting Adjournment

Tommy Wells hosts livable, walkable awards tonight, 6:30 pm @ Hill Center

Councilmember Tommy Wells to Host 5th Annual Livable, Walkable Awards

On Thursday, December 8th, Councilmember Tommy Wells will honor several city leaders with the 5th Annual Livable, Walkable Awards at the Hill Center at the newly renovated Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave, SE, 6:30 – 8:30 pm.

“To create a truly livable, walkable community, it takes leadership and vision -- not just from those elected to office, but alsofrom our neighbors, city employees, civic organizations, and local businesses,” said Mr. Wells. Nominations were made by the community and an award will be given in each of these categories, in addition to a new award this year celebrating civic pride.

Affectionately known in the community as “TheBrickies,” the event is sponsored by dozens of Ward 6 local businesses.There will be food, cash bar, and live entertainment at the awards ceremony to honor the recipients. A short program will begin at approximately 7:15 pm to announce the awards.

The recipients of the awards tonight will be:

ANC6C Transporation Cmte Mtg tonight 7 pm, K St rd diet & bike lanes, stop signs on I & new NoMa development

The December meeting of the ANC 6C Transportation & Public Space Committee will be Thursday, 12/8 - 7 pm at Kaiser Permanente (700 2nd Street NE), 1st Floor  conference room, G2/G3.

Meeting Agenda:

1. Proposed road diet for K St NE between North Capital and Florida Avenue:  ANC 6C04 Rep. Tony Goodman is requesting a road diet for K St. so that traffic is limited to two lanes (one lane in each direction) at all times.  As it stands today, drivers are allowed to use a third travel lane during rush hour periods.  If approved, this proposal would allow residents to park on both sides of K St at all hours.  Additionally, the proposal calls for the addition of bike lanes or other bike facilities.  The addition of bike facilities on K St would provide a much needed east/west cycling connection between NOMA and the restaurants and bars in the Atlas District on H St.

 2.  1050 1st St NE:   New curb cuts on L Street for proposed new office building at 1050 First Street NE by Trammell Crow.

3.  Sale of city owned alley space behind 21 7th St. NE:  Residential property owner seeks permission to buy a small parcel of city owned alley space behind her house to allow parking.  Apparently the alley is a dead end and neighbors are supportive of the sale.  Owner Lyudmila Tregubova and Agent David Gemcarelli are scheduled to appear.

4.  Erection of stop signs on 4th St. at I St NE and 6th St. at I St NE:   ANC 6C04 Rep. Tony Goodman is requesting the erection of the stop signs to slow traffic and create safer conditions for pedestrians.

Burglary Prevention tips from MPD First District Commander Hickson

More helpful suggestions on deterring home burglaries from MPD.  Not mentioned is a home security system, though we've heard police recommend them frequently in the past and recommend them ourselves. 

Burglary Prevention Tips
· Keep all doors and windows closed and securely fastened. An open window or door is an open invitation for burglars. Thieves are also quick to spot weak locks that may be easily forced open. Doors should have deadbolt locks with a one inch throw and reinforced strike plate with three inch screws. All windows should have window locks.
· Secure sliding glass doors. Place a metal rod or piece of plywood in the track and install vertical bolts. These will help prevent burglars from forcing the door open or lifting it off the track.
· Always lock the door to an attached garage. Don’t rely on your automatic garage door opener for security.
· Create the illusion that you are home by using timers on lights, radios and TV’s. Making your residence appear occupied, even when no one is home, will deter criminals.
· Keep the perimeter of your home well lighted. Installing low voltage outdoor lighting is a cost-effective way to discourage intruders, as well as highlight a house. These should be supplements by bright motion-sensitive lighting.
· Never leave clues that you are away on a trip. Have a trusted neighbor collect mail and newspapers while you are away so delivered items do not accumulate. You can also ask a neighbor to park in your driveway or parking place to make it appear that you are present.
· Keep some shades and blinds up and curtains open to maintain a normal, everyday appearance in your residence.
· Never leave a message on your telephone answering machine telling people that you are away from home. A message that you will return at a certain time leaves your home vulnerable in the interim.
· Keep shrubbery trimmed away from entrances and walkways. While large, ornate hedges may be beautiful, they also provide a hiding place for burglars who need only a minute to break in through a window or door.

Our number 1 tip is to always lock your doors and windows. I’m sure that some think that it is silly to remind folks to lock their doors, but you may be surprised how many unlocked homes are burglarized. During the holiday season we also need to be aware of advertising to potential thieves what items you may have received as gifts. Be mindful of how you dispose of boxes for computers, televisions and video game systems.

The First District also has officers who have experience in conducting home security surveys. If you would like an officer to conduct a survey and assessment of your home, contact your PSA lieutenant.

Commander Daniel Hickson

Metropolitan Police Department

First District

Streetcar meeting summary

The Streetcar meeting was standing room only and several people were turned away as the room filled to capacity.  The meeting was informative, especially in terms of dispelling some myths and getting out some basic background information about the plans for the line down H Street.  DDOT posted the presentation online at their DCStreetcar.com website.

There was not a lot of news from the meeting itself.  The biggest news was that they are still on track for Summer 2013 for operating cars down H Street and that the access point to Union Station would be from the H Street "Hopscotch" Bridge near what would be 1st & H NE.  That news was cheered by residents near 3rd & F St who didn't want the streetcars running down their narrow side road, but little additional detail about why this option would work well, or even quite how it would work in terms of accessing the metro at Union Station was presented.  That will hopefully be the subject of the next streetcar meeting back at the Atlas on December 20, at 6 pm.  

Construction on the bridge, for the power substations and the car barn at the eastern end will begin this Spring.  The cars will run from early morning until at least midnight.  The plan is still to eventually continue the line west through downtown all the way to Georgetown, so the Union Station connection is emphasized as being "temporary."  Same goes for the western end point as the hope and plan is for it to continue further east as well.

The presentation from last night was quite comprehensive on most points besides the details of the Union Station connection and is worth a review for anyone who was unable to attend the meeting.  The next meeting on December 20 will focus on the interim connection to Union Station, which remains our biggest question going ahead.

Theft from Auto Prevention Tips from MPD First District Commander

Here's another round of good crime prevention advice from the new MPD First District Commander Daniel Hickson. 


One of the most common types of theft is theft of valuables from your automobile. Theft from auto is primarily a crime of opportunity that can often be prevented if you take away the opportunity. Thieves generally won’t waste their time breaking into autos that don’t have valuables in plain sight. Of course there are those, including one of our 1D serial thieves, who will break into every car on a block when they hit.

• The best way to prevent theft from your auto is to always keep valuables “outta sight.” Never leave cell phones, briefcases, suitcases, or small electronic devices (personal music devices, digital assistants, etc.) in your car in plain view. Take theses items with you, or secure them — all the time, every time!
• A valuable that is targeted by thieves is GPS systems. Remember to not only remove the GPS when you park, but also remove the mounting system, i.e. suction cup holder. Thieves will assume that the GPS is in the glove box when they see an empty mounting device.
• If your car has a trunk, use it. Put valuables in there or in a locked glove compartment. Hiding items under seats is better than leaving them in plain view, but securing them inside the glove compartment or trunk is a far better deterrent.
• While having nothing of value in your car will deter break-ins, you may also want to leave your empty glove box or any other visible compartment open to show the thieves that there is nothing to steal.
• During the holiday season especially, or any time you’re shopping, place packages in the trunk, not on the passenger seats or floors.
• Look for car radios or other sound systems that can operate only in the vehicle it was originally installed in. This reduces the risk of theft.
• If you can unfasten your sound system and take it with you, or lock it in your trunk, do so. And don’t forget to do the same with your CDs and tapes.
• Also, keep your car doors and windows locked — all the time!
• Report suspicious activity while it is happening. This could save you or your neighbor from being victimized. Call 9-1-1 and stay on the line if you see or hear something that seems unusual or suspicious. Try to get a description of the suspects and their vehicle, and do not confront suspects. Don’t think you are bothering the police by calling them to report suspicious activity. It’s their job to detect and apprehend criminals, and they need your help because they can’t be in everyone’s neighborhood 24 hours a day.

The easiest tip of all is to LOCK your car. There are several known serial thieves who operate in First District and whom we have arrested multiple times. One of these individuals only commits thefts from unlocked cars; it is amazing how many he finds not secured. Recently my wife and I were driving in our neighborhood in the city when we observed two subjects committing thefts from autos and I was able to call on-duty units to assist me stop and arrest the suspects. These two were only stealing from unlocked cars and when they were arrested, they had about 10 GPS systems in their backpack.

Commander Daniel Hickson

Metropolitan Police Department

First District

Link roundup

H Street Life has a brief video of Yoga District

Cloture Club had a great brunch at Liberty Tree and has the pictures to prove it.

GGW says the Metro Branch Trail (MBT) bike path along the train tracks through NE may be more accessible near Union Station with cycle tracks being added to lessen the gap between the path and NoMa/Union Station.

District Cuisine has some thoughts on Pho Bar & Grill.

Washington Post touts the Chupacabra food truck from the guys behind Sticky Rice (and also involved at Dangerously Delicious Pies.

City Paper posts some of DDOT's thinking on putting the streetcar in place and connecting it to Union Station.

DC Access - a local internet service provider gets a great write up in PC World.

Metrocurean has Five Bites H Street edition from Mamalicious in the City's Jenny Slitter aka @Mamalicious.  We'd be hard pressed to pick just 5 favorite H Street dishes, but it's a good list.  We'd add coffee & chai with a veggie sandwich from Sidamo, burger w/ tobacco onions from Big Board, lamb duo from Atlas Room, lobster roll from Liberty Tree, Pattisson Ave from Taylor, Fish n Chips from Queen Vic, Chicken Curry Ramen or Dan Dan Mien from Toki, Fish Tacos with sweet potato fries from the Argonaut...  obviously we could never pick just five, which is another great sign of the terrific growth in good places to eat on H Street. 

The Hill is Home encouraged you to hurry up and score the last seats at the Big Board's "Fast Food Beer Dinner" tomorrow night.  It's a special creative play on a fast food menu with beer pairings from DC's own Chocolate City Beer.

Spicy Candy has a fun photo shoot from H Street hot spots Little Miss Whiskeys, H Street Country Club, Dangerously Delicious Pies, and the Atlas.

Housing Complex's Lydia DePillis reports that WestMill Capital has gutted 1351 H St and is seeking input on what to do with it by introducing a new sort of crowd sourcing to gage what neighborhood residents want to see there (early front runner options were Red Rocks pizza, a Bon Chon korean chicken or a farm to table bistro -- and we vote for all three) via a new website called popularise.com

Urban Daddy reports on the latest from the ladies behind Crunk Cakes whose flavorful cupcakes are now found at the Pug, SOVA, and Star and Shamrock.

Street crime prevention tips from MPD First District Commander

Some good advice went out to MPD's 1D listserve earlier today. 

This week I would like to take the opportunity to provide some crime prevention tips to the First District Community. I’m sure that many of you are aware that at this particular time of year we often see a spike in some categories of crimes so this would be a good time to review different prevention tips.

When police managers look at crime prevention we consider the “prevention triangle”: the Offender, the Location and the Victim. The prevention tips that we will provide in this series focuses on what individuals can do to make themselves less vulnerable to being a victim. I compiled these tips through my own experience and training, as well as contributions from co-workers. All of the 1D PSA Lieutenant contributed to this compilation of tips and ideas; I also hope that you feel free to discuss these with the officer and sergeants who work in your community. Each day will focus on a different crime and for the first day we will focus on Robberies.

Robbery Prevention

• Always be aware of your surroundings, vigilant of activity around you and attentive to individuals approaching
• Walk purposely and with confidence, avoid starring at the ground so that you can be aware, vigilant and attentive
• Do not allow yourself to be distracted by activity such as talking on your cell phone, listening to music or reading
• Try to travel with others, walk in well-traveled areas, and at night in well-lighted areas
• Protect your electronics by not displaying them
• Resist the urge to multi-task while walking; wait to make phone calls, check your email and listen to music at your destination
• Purchase black or dark colored ear buds
• If you must listen to a device with ear buds, consider running the bud wires underneath your outer clothing to minimize visibility of the device
• If you purchase an electronic device check to see if there is a tracking system available for the device
• Do not use ATMs that are located in remote areas, try to use ATMs during the daylight hours in well populated areas
• Do not display large amounts of cash when paying for items in public, and do not display excessive jewelry
• Men: if you carry wallet, place the wallet in your front hip pocket or inside jacket pocket- do not carry in your back pant pocket
• Women: when you will be walking in public spaces carry a small handbag or purse that you can grasp with a hand.

Of all the tips presented above the number one step that citizens can take to help prevent robberies is to not use your smart phone and/or I-pods while walking on a public street. The use of these devices distracts you from paying full attention to your surroundings and it advertises to suspects that you have something of value that can easily be snatched.

While no one can tell you what to do when confronted by a robber- we strongly recommend that you comply with the robber’s demands for property, particularly if they are armed with a weapon or if you feel threatened. Property can always be replaced.

Commander Daniel Hickson

Metropolitan Police Department

First District

Reminder: Streetcar Update w/ Mayor Gray & DDOT Dir. Bellamy @ the Atlas, tomorrow 7 pm

Please attend the December 6 briefing with Mayor Vincent Gray and Terry Bellamy, Director of the Department of Transportation.  The meeting will be held at the Atlas Theater at 7 pm.  It is open to all, with no need for a reservation.

The briefing is the latest in a series sponsored by the Advisory Neighborhood Commissions of H Street and Benning Road - ANCs 6C, 6A, 5B and now 7D01.

If you wish to hear about funding, construction schedules, the location of the interim terminals, the maintenance yard, where the H/Benning Line will expand in the future, and the design of the rest of the streetcar system, please join us.

Again, 7 pm at the Atlas Theater, 1333 H Street NE on December 6.  Your ANCs invite you to attend.


David Holmes
Chair, Advisory Neighborhood Commission 6A
ANC 6A website: www.ANC6A.org

Theatre Alliance hosts Black Nativity @ H St Playhouse; Pay what you can previews this wkd; Opens Monday

H Street Playhouse & Theater Alliance are currently in final rehearsals of the first show of their 9th Season, Langston Hughes’ Black Nativity, a vibrant retelling ofthe Christmas story filled with gospel music, storytelling, and dance. 

Preview performances begin this weekend, and they will be Pay-What-You-Can at the door.  However, they are selling advance tickets of $20 to these performances for groups who would like to ensure their seats.  These "PWYC" performances will be at 8pm on Saturday, December 3, 4pm and 8pm on Sunday, December 4. 

The Opening Night performance and celebration will be at 8pm on Monday December 5.  The full press release on the show, which runs through the end of the month follows.

Game Roast Friday, Dec. 9, @ Watershed w/ DC Brau; Buy 1, Get 1 free for neighborhood residents

Watershed Neighborhood Game Roast

Be a Neighbor, Bring a Friend - Watershed Game Roast for Two, $75

Watershed's supper series continues with a hearty, festive game roast, featuring community-farmed, regionally-sourced fowl next Friday, December 9. Menu highlights include country style pate with toasted pistachio, cider-brined roasted game hen, pheasant and port wine cherry sausage, roasted new potatoes with rosemary, and chablis roasted pear with whipped armangnac vanilla cream. Come for happy hour, beginning at 5:00pm in the lounge, and stay for supper at 7:00pm. Watershed's Game Roast will also feature brews from DC Brau and live music. See the full menu after the break.

Special NoMa Neighborhood Offer: For neighborhood residents, bring a friend and you can both enjoy the Game Roast for $75.

When: Friday, December 9 at 7:00 pm
Where: 1225 First St. NE (Second floor of the Hilton Garden Inn)

Reservations: Reservations required. Call 202-534-1350 & mention that you are a neighborhood resident.

Streetcar Update on w/ Mayor Gray & DDOT Dir. Bellamy @ Atlas Theatre, Tues. Dec. 6, 7 pm

Save the date for and plan to attend this upcoming Streetcar Forum at the Atlas Theater (1333 H Street NE) on Tuesday, December 6, 2011 from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm. Mayor Gray, DDOT Director Terry Bellamy, and other city officials are expected to be on hand for a discussion of progress on the H Street streetcar line.  We will be there and hope you'll join us in holding our public officials accountable in pushing towards the completion of the H Street line. 

Link roundup

Fashion Food Foreplay touts brunch at Smith Commons.

City Paper enjoyed the 10 course Peking Duck feast at Toki Underground. 

Tom Sietsema talked to Atlas Room General Manager Mark Medley about no show reservations.  Folks, if you're not going to make it to a reservation, please have the courtesy of letting the restaurant know, so they can seat someone else. 

East City Art rounded up the last exhibits of the season at various local galleries.

Tommy Wells' 5th Annual Livable Walkable Awards 12/8; Nominations accepted now

Councilmember Tommy Wells will host his 5th Annual Liveable Walkable Awards on Thursday, December 8, at the Hill Center (921 Pennsylvania Ave SE).  Nominations for the following awards categories are being accepted through the end of today. 

Neighbor Award
Community Organization Award
Business Award
Public Service Award

Recent neighborhood awards winners include the Argonaut (Livable Walkable Business), Elizabeth Nelson (Neighbor Award for work with ANC6A, Maury Elementary, Trees for Capitol Hill & more), and Moms on the Hill (Community Organization Award).  Let Councilmember Wells know why you think your nominee goes above and beyond at the following link: http://www.tommywells.org/forms/LWAwards2011 and save the date.

Link roundup

Michelle Obama came to H Street for dinner on Friday night.

Frozen Tropics is keeping track of who's open and who's closed for Thanksgiving.

Eater has Chef Michael Hartzer currently of Jack Rose, previously of the Rays the Steaks group, and Indebleu's favorite spots to eat in the neighborhood.  He's apparently an H Street neighbor and is a big fan of Ethiopic calling it the best Ethiopian in town. 

Scout Mob has a cool piece on some tasty treats at Toki Underground from Mary Kong of Girl Meets Food.  Toki hosts a multicourse Peking Duck dinner tonight (sold out) before taking a couple days off for the holiday. 

The Post had a piece on the sale of the Murry's site that we reported on a few days earlier.

Yes, that was First Lady Michelle Obama on H Street Friday night

Only a couple weeks after Vice President Biden and a host of other prominent Washingtonians, including Colin Powell & Madeleine Albright dropped by the Atlas Performing Arts Center, H Street welcomed yet another prominent politico.  This time First Lady Michelle Obama came to Sticky Rice for dinner on Friday evening.  The First Lady arrived around 7 pm and stuck around for a couple hours while several suburbans and other secret service vehicles lined the north side of the 1200 block of H Street. 

Conveniently Sticky Rice had recently opened their expansion into the building to their west, which allowed the additional space and exits that was likely required by Secret Service for a high profile guest like the First Lady.  No word from the guys at Sticky Rice if any tots or PBRs were consumer alongside the First Lady's sushi. 

We're thrilled to see the neighborhood continuing to attract more and more visitors, but hope her visit to Sticky Rice doesn't foretell long lines at Sticky Rice again so soon after they doubled in size.  Although, the building next to the one they expanded into remains open...

413 H St sold for $550,000

The blighted vacant shell of a building at 413 H St (next door to Capital Fine Wine & Spirts near Sidamo and on the block bookended by The Big Board and Ethiopic) sold for $550,000 last week.  The building's previous owner made a good bit of money by doing nothing with the property according to DC property records.  The Office of Tax and Revenue shows the property was purchased in 2002 for $167,500, so the former owner appears to have taken nearly $400,000 by doing little more than paying the property taxes for the past several years.  The building was added to DCRA's "blighted" property list earlier this year and thus subjected to the "blighted" tax rate of 10%.  It was listed for sale soon thereafter for $650,000 in July.

We haven't spoken with the new owner, but are reliably informed that he plans to begin renovation of the building soon in anticipation of making it available for lease. 

This is yet another sign of great progress on the western end of H Street over the past year. 413 H Street joins 5 other properties currently under renovation on the 400 block of H Street and is just east of the ongoing 360 H Street/Steuart Development mixed-use project which will house a Giant grocery store & a couple hundred residential units in 2013.

H Street Bakes at H Street Country Club Sunday 11:30-2:30

The next H Street Bakes is this Sunday, November 20, from 11:30 AM to 2:30 pm at the H Street Country Club (1335 H St). H Street Bakes is a monthly pop-up bake sale featuring bakers from H Street and the surrounding neighborhoods. This month, the bakers include Kim Moffatt (Oatmeal awesome pie, Bourbon pecan pie tart, spiced pumpkin cheesecake, sweet potato tart), Crunkcakes (boozy cupcakes), biscuit (artisan breads, croissants, and other savory options), and others.

biscuit is  bringing buttery dinner rolls, challah, italian bread, and pumpkin chocolate chip loaves as well as the usual croissants, toffee, english muffins, stecca, and pizza, which may be useful to those hosting Thanksgiving this year. 

You can also place orders with Kim Moffat (on facebook at H Street Bakes) for whole pies, cheesecakes, cakes and tarts.  She's offering for preorder: oatmeal awesome pie, sweet potato tart w/ marshmallows & pecans, bourbon pecan pie tart, spiced pumpkin cheesecase w/ gingersnap crust (available gluten free), pumpkin pound cake bundt cake and vegan pumpkin chocholate chip bundt cake.  Make your hosting Thanksgiving easy by order something or make your hosts happy by bringing one home.  These items are available in whole pies by preorder only -- not at Sunday's bake sale.

50% off Fruit Bat via Deals For Deeds benefitting Brainfood

Deals For Deeds has 50% off Fruit Bat today ($30 gift certificates for $15) with 15% of the proceeds going to benefit Brainfood.

5 course Chocolate City Beer Dinner at The Big Board w/ Chef Mike Lunsford & Pasty Chef Kim Moffatt

Big Board is hosting a big beer dinner with 5 fun courses courses from their Chef Mike Lunsford w/ Pastry Chef Kim Moffatt (of H Street Bakes & Granville Moore's fame) and 5 beers from DC's own Chocolate City Brewery.  The meal will be served on Big Board's yet to fully open second level for $60 per person on Wednesday, December 7.  Call 202-543-3630 for reservations.  The full "Fast Food" Beer Dinner menu is after the jump:

Special DC Brau-Stillwater Ales release at Smith Commons on Friday

DC Brau Brewing Company Collaborates with Stillwater Artisanal Ales for  "NATAS"
Launch party on November 18th, at Smith Commons  8pm-12am

Belgium has long been known for producing strong, dark ales throughout the centuries. In recent years brewers all over the world have been been experimenting with Porters and Stouts brewed with traditional Belgian brewing ingredients to create new styles.

DC Brau and Stillwater Ales joined forces to create one of their own. "NATAS" is a Belgian Style Imperial Porter brewed with a traditional high gravity Abbey yeast. At first glance "NATAS" is pitch black in the glass with wafting aroma's of burnt sugar and caramelized fruit. The mouthfeel is silky smooth with hints of cocoa. It has a gentle, warming phenolic character that begs for a follow up inquiry. The hops are used to balance this brew and lend a subtle complexity. The dark lord himself would be proud to serve this hellish offering to his legions of demonic minions.

The beer name is a nod to Natas Kapuas, a skateboarder from Southern California in the late 80s and early 90s whose thrashing was super rad and adored by Brian, Jeff and Brandon while growing up. Natas is also Satan spelled backwards. Traditionally, there are many Belgian Strong Goldens and Tripels bearing the name of the Evil Spirit. Being that this beer is dark as midnight and therefore the opposite of this it is only appropriate that it should bear the name of the dark lord spelled BACKWARDS.

DC Brau Brewing Co. / Stillwater Artisan Ales Presents
"NATAS" Belgian-Style Imperial Porter
ABV: 7.5% ABV
Yeast: Wyeast 1762 Belgian Abbey II
Hops: Gr. Perle, Nugget, Fuggles and Columbus

A press release from DC Brau describes the beer as follows,

At first glance “NATAS” is pitch black in the glass with wafting aromas of burnt sugar and caramelized fruit. The mouthfeel is silky smooth with hints of cocoa. It has a gentle, warming phenolic character that begs for a follow-up inquiry. The hops are used to balance this brew and lend a subtle complexity. The dark lord himself would be proud to serve this hellish offering to his legions of demonic minions.

50% off Inspire BBQ via Deals For Deeds benefitting Brainfood

Deals For Deeds has 50% off Inspire BBQ today ($20 gift certificates for $10) with 15% of the proceeds going to benefit Brainfood.

Over 40% off the Argonaut via Deals For Deeds benefitting Brainfood

Deals For Deeds has over 40% off the Argonaut today ($35 gift certificates for $20) with 15% of the proceeds going to benefit Brainfood.

This is part of the second annual “H Street Cares: A Week to Benefit Brainfood”, a special week of deals taking place this week. Some of DC’s most popular restaurants and bars located along the H Street Corridor will be featured and 15% of every purchase will directly support Brainfood, a non-profit youth development organization in Washington, DC. Using food as a tool, Brainfood builds life skills and promotes healthy living in a fun and safe environment.

Last market of the season -- bring donations for the hungry - perishables, nonperishables, cash & check all accepted

Farmers and Producers at Market: Atwaters; Blueberry Hill; Cedarbrook Farm; Gepetto Catering (BBQ); Full Cellar Farm; Keswick Creamery; Quaker Valley Orchards; Richfield Farm; Garden Path Farm; Red Apron Butchery.

Special Customer Appreciation for this last market day: Red Apron will be serving hot dogs!

At market this week:
Thanksgiving Food Drive to benefit First Church of Christ Holiness!

New Happy Hour specials & promotions at the Argonaut

Happy Hour Monday-Friday, 5pm-7pm

1/2-price glasses & bottles of McWilliams Shiraz and Lagaria Pinot Grigio
1/2-price draught beers [excludes high octane or limited beers]
$3 rail drinks

Daily Specials

Monday: 25¢ wings [with purchase of alcoholic beverage OR root beer, ginger beer, san pellegrino].

Tuesday: Taco Tuesday (Fish/Chicken/Tempeh Tacos = $3/$2/$2). Dine in only.

Wednesday: Family Night Kids < 12 eat free off the kiddo menu. Dine in only.

Wednesday (upstairs): Pub Quiz. 8-10pm. Prizes! 21+ (ps – our fabulous team of hosts come up with their own questions – no corporate packages here!)

Wednesday-Friday 11:30am-4pm: Want 25% off your lunch tab? Just ask for it! May not be combined with other offers. Dine in only.

Thursday: $3 Thirsty Thursday (select craft beer cans = $3) DOWNSTAIRS BAR CUSTOMERS ONLY (not for table service or upstairs).

Saturday: Argo-Mutts Doggy Happy Hour! 12pm-5pm. Patio only.

Sunday: 1/2-price draught beers 8pm-close [excludes high octane or limited beers]

Hill Schools & Child Care Info Night tonight at Hill Center (10th & Penn) via MOTH

MOTH is hosting their annual Hill School Night tonight at the new Hill Center (10th & Penn SE), from 6-8:30.  Pretty much every local school imaginable as well as a wide array of child care centers will be on hand.  Full details are on the Hill School Info website.

Half off Yoga District (526 H St) via Living Social

Living Social has 50% off at Yoga District (526 H St) today with $25 buying your choice of 5 classes.  We haven't been, but our yoga loving friends and neighbors seem to like it almost as much for regular yoga as our hot yoga friends do Bikram Yoga Capitol Hill (410 H St).  Have you been?  If not, this is a great opportunity to try it out and support another locally-owned local business.

Link roundup

The Hillys were Sunday night on H Street at the Atlas.  Julia Robey Christian of CHAMPS put on a terrific show and Aesthic Answers had the Atlas looking better than ever.  Congratulations to Inspire BBQ, The Queen Vic, Little Miss Whiskeys, the Pug, and Toki Underground on winning Hillys or being runners up for them.  The Hill is Home has the full awards run down.

Aldi opened at 17th & Maryland.  Aldi is a German grocery company, something akin to a Costco food section or a low-priced, all generic Trader Joes.  We swung through and were most impressed with the view of the Capitol from the checkout lines.  Various pantry items were very inexpensive, but you wont find a wide array of produce or any organic items here.  Note they accept debit, not credit and take a harder line on bringing your own bags than is required under DC law.  The Washington Post checked out the ribbon cutting and somewhat confusingly cites the Aldi as opening in a "food desert."  It is literally across the street from a Safeway.

Young & Hungry's Chris Shott has a nice piece on the Big Board and talks to the Brothers Flannery (co-owners Eric & Mark live along H Street & are usually managing at Big Board) about their secret burger marinade that they all got pieces of from their father Admiral Flannery.  We haven't a clue what's in it, but we've been very pleased with the burgers we've had there thus far.

Deals for Deeds is back on H Street again partnering with Granville Moore's & other spots to give you discounts at H Street restaurants, while raising funds for local nonprofit Brainfood.  The deals include:
Dr. Granville Moore’s: $30 for $50 to spend; Toki Underground: $20 for $35 to spend; The Argonaut: $20 for $35 to spend; Inspire BBQ: $10 for $20 to spend; and Fruit Bat: $15 for $30 to spend.

We reported that the sale of the Murry's property at 6th & H went through.

Sticky Rice tells us that their expansion into the building to their west is now open, so hopefully it'll be easier to get tables there now.  They've also rolled out a new food truck called Chupacabra.  The truck is based out of the building at the corner of 9th & H where they considered opening a Chupacabra restaurant.  They sell a variety of tacos, both traditional styles and more creative offerings. 

Tommy Wells is seeking nominations for his 5th Annual Liveable Walkable Awards.  Categories include Neighbor, Community Service Organization, Business and Public Service.

There are a slew of fun events this week.  There's a Movember Fundraiser at the Queen Vic tonight, pay what you can night for Theatre Alliance's Night before Christmas at the H Street Playhouse tomorrow, Great Lakes Brew Co event at the Pug on Wednesday, Jazz at the Atlas on Wednesday, a CD release party at the Atlas on Friday, and an oyster roast at Watershed on Friday (Buy one get one free for 20002 residents).

Over 40% off at Toki Underground via Deals For Deeds benefitting Brainfood

Deals For Deeds has over 40% off Toki Underground today ($35 gift certificates for $20) with 15% of the proceeds going to benefit Brainfood.

This is part of the second annual “H Street Cares: A Week to Benefit Brainfood”, a special week of deals taking place this week. Some of DC’s most popular restaurants and bars located along the H Street Corridor will be featured and 15% of every purchase will directly support Brainfood, a non-profit youth development organization in Washington, DC. Using food as a tool, Brainfood builds life skills and promotes healthy living in a fun and safe environment.

Wendell Kimbrough CD Release event at the Atlas Fri, Nov. 18, 7:30

Wendell Kimbrough is a performing songwriter based in NE DC and is hosting an album release for his band featuring two artists who he describes as the most dynamic acts in the area as openers--Andy Zipf and Justin Trawick at the Atlas Performing Arts Center on H Street this Friday.  He will be backed by a full band of New Orleans-style jazz players from DC and NYC , including renowned clarinetist Gary Gregg from Chaise Lounge. It is going to be a fantastic night of music in a beautiful setting, and a real showcase of some of the great talent in the DC area.   We haven't seen Mr. Kimbrough perform before, but really enjoyed a few of his songs we found online, so we recommend checking him out.

Wendell Kimbrough CD Release w/Andy Zipf & Justin Trawick

Friday, Nov. 18, 7:30PM

Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE, DC
Tickets & more info: http://tinyurl.com/6gkzljb