A Great Way to Bring in the New Year

I hope to see you at the first Dupont Circle Citizens Association Membership Meeting of 2009:

"Toasting Your Resolutions" Party, Monday, January 5th, 2009.  Enjoy Champagne, live jazz, + new and longtime neighbors

at the Chastleton Ballroom, 1701 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC.  Bring along a friend.

Season's Greetings

I'd like to wish you all a wonderful holiday season and
New Year filled with hope, promise and good health.

Thank you for your commitment and contribution to our neighborhood
and our city.

PLEASE NOTE: DEC ANC MEETING ON THURS, DEC 11TH

Please note the exception to our typical ANC meeting schedule, as this month our meeting will be held on Thursday, December 11th at the JCC at 16th and Q Street, NW.  Details and agenda are available at   www.dupontcircleanc.net

And, this Saturday (December 13th) and Sunday (December 14th), you can help Ross Elementary School by purchasing  your holiday tree 

at the corner of  17th & R  Streets, NW.  The prices are lower and part of the expense is tax deductible.  They also offer FREE DELIVERY!

Another way to help our community is to join the Dupont Circle Citizens Association (DCCA).  DCCA membership is an amazing value and a great way to meet neighbors and get involved.  Check out their website:  www.dupont-circle.org.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Hello Everyone,

I hope you'll come out for the following upcoming neighborhood meetings/events:

1. TUESDAY DECEMBER 2, 2008 - 

Dupont Circle Citizens Association's December meeting:  An Artful Evening at the Phillips Collection.

                                1600 21st Street, NW

     With a reception following at Mark and Orlando's Restaurant 

     2020 P Street, NW

2. THIS WEEKEND:  Midcity Open Studio

3.  THIS WEEKEND AND NEXT:     

Ross School Holiday Tree Sale 

(lower pricing, half tax deductible, free delivery!) at the corner of 17th and R Streets, NW

Thanks to All Who Helped Charlie's Place and Happy Thanksgiving!

Hello Everyone,

Last Saturday's Help the Homeless Walkathon was a resounding success, with the preliminary results showing $ 40,000. raised for Charlie's Place.

If you weren't able to walk to help raise money and awareness for Charlie's Place, there are still plenty of opportunities to donate or volunteer.

Check out Charlie's Place website or email Tom Goss (tgoss@stmargaretsdc.org) or Susan Dunn (sed@kestrelgroupllc.com).

Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday.

Ramon

IF YOU CAN WALK, YOU CAN HELP !

Dear Neighbors,

Please sign up to participate in the November 22nd, Annual Help the Homeless Walkathon on the National Mall. Dupont Circle Citizens Association will meet to walk for Charlie's Place, our local service provider for the homeless. We need only 35 more people to sign up to receive an additional $10,000!! I hope you will also join Dupont Circle Citizens Association, (or renew your membership). DCCA brings neighbors together to enjoy and improve the quality of life in our diverse, urban neighborhood. Click on the flier for more information.

Another Opportunity to Help

Dear Neighbors,

Please sign up to participate in the November 22nd, Annual Help the Homeless Walkathon on the National Mall. Dupont Circle Citizens Association will meet to walk for Charlie's Place, our local service provider for the homeless. We need only 35 more people to sign up to receive an additional $10,000!! I hope you will also join Dupont Circle Citizens Association, (or renew your membership). DCCA brings neighbors together to enjoy and improve the quality of life in our diverse, urban neighborhood. Click on the flier for more information.

I've served as ANC Commissioner for Single Member District 2B09 for three terms and was recently re-elected for another two-year term, which will begin in January 2009. I moved to this neighborhood thirty years ago. My foray into neighborhood organizing began when it became evident that solving problems here required a unified effort. Since then, I've learned from and owe much to my constituents and colleagues on the Commission, where I’ve served as Secretary, Vice Chair and now, for the past two years, Chair. I appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to improve our quality of life.

New Development Proposal

Dear Neighbors,

Tomorrow's ANC 2B meeting will include a presentation by JGB Associates regarding their proposed redevelopment of the structures located at 1407 S Street NW and 1802, 1804, 1810, 1816, and 1818 14th Street NW and their BZA Application #17850 for one variance and three special exceptions. A rendering of the project appears below:


The full agenda for tomorrow's meeting is also listed below in my post from 11-10-08.

This Month's ANC 2B Meeting Agenda (November 12th, 2008)

ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 2B REGULAR MEETING AGENDA

Wednesday, November 12, 2008, 7:00 p.m.

DC Jewish Community Center, 16th at Q Streets NW

Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2B meets the second Wednesday of each month.

There is an open forum at each meeting for discussion of issues not on the regular agenda.

For further information send a message to email@DupontCircleANC.net.

You can also sign up to receive ANC2B Agendas.

Go to: http://dupontcircleanc.net/index.htm

General

• Update on Hilton Hotel issues

• Presentation by DDOT (Chris Ziemann) on 14th/15th Street projects & T Street resurfacing

• Consideration of resolution re: 18th Street DDOT & WASA projects

• Consideration of resolution re: green taxi initiatives

• Consideration of resolution supporting use of Dupont Circle underground trolley station as art exhibition

space

• Presentation by Sam Williams (DCRA), New Vending Regulations

• Consideration of grant request by Dupont Village

• Introduction of Ross School Principal, Amanda Alexander

• Consideration of a resolution requesting that the Council hold a hearing on Councilmember Barry’s license, New restaurant with bakery. (2B02)

ABRA Renewals

-Application by 1807 Corporation for renewal of Class B Retailer License #ABRA-021578 for the

-Dupont Market located at 1807 18th Street NW. (2B01).

-Application by 2130 P Incorporated for a Class B Retailer License #ABRA-074057 for the Metro

-Supermarket at 2130 P Street NW. (2B02)

-Application by H. S. Lee Corporation for a Class B Retailer License #ABRA-060741 for Prego Again at

1617 17th Street NW, (2B04)

-Application by Moon Run Inc for renewal of a Class B Retain License #ABRA-060717 for the 1500

-Market at 1500 Massachusetts Avenue NW, (2B05)

-Application by Hyk, Inc. for renewal of a Class B Retailer License #ABRA-071148 for Marbi’s

-Newstand at 1730 Rhode Island Avenue NW. (2B05)

-Application by Oasis, Inc. for renewal of a Class B Retailer License #ABRA-014153 for the Oasis at

2024 P Street NW. (2B06)

-Application by Freedom Market, Inc. for renewal of a Class B Retailer License for Freedom Market, Inc

at 1901 New Hampshire Avenue NW. (2B09)

-Application by Bella Investments, Inc. for renewal of a Class B Retailer License for the New Hampshire

Market at 1900 16th Street NW. (2B09)

Administrative Matters, Commissioner and Committee Reports, and Unfinished/New Business

• Approval of Minutes/Financial Matters

• Religious land use bill & consideration of Commission action in appeal and District Court case (Third

Church)

• Presentation by Center for Strategic and International Studies, 1616 Rhode Island Ave, N.W. to propose

a Second Stage PUD (2B05)

Regulatory

- 1666 Connecticut Avenue, NW, HPA #09-036, concept/alterations to sidewalk café (2B02)

- BZA Application #17850 for one variance and three special exceptions to permit the redevelopment of

the structures located at 1407 S Street NW and 1802, 1804, 1810, 1816, and 1818 14th Street NW. (2B09)

-Public Space Application #40570 for six parking spaces at 1926 16th Street NW (2B09)

-ABRA Application #080149, JPA Hospitality, Inc t/a Aioli, 2153-2155 P Street NW, for “C” Restaurant

license. New restaurant with sidewalk café (34 seats). (2B02)

-ABRA Application #080501, PQ Blaine Mansion, Inc. t/a Le Pain Quotidien, for “C” Restaurant

More Good News

Yesterday, I testified on behalf of the ANC2B and my constituents in 2B09 at the Board of Zoning Adjustment for the Utopia project at 14th & U Streets, NW (see elevation plan, right). The good news is that at the proceeding, the BZA voted unanimously to approve the variance requests. Developer, Robert Moore, and his team have worked with the community to mesh the project with our  unique historic  block at the southwest corner.   I look forward to continuing to work with the developer and seeing this  project take shape.  The project is a mixed-use retail and apartment complex that will bring approximately 20,000 SF of new retail and 230 apartments.  Artist Alex, a resident of the block, has created a 3-D model of the project, which I'd be happy to show you if you're interested.

Now that the campaign and the BZA hearing for Utopia is past, I'll be able to catch up with all of  you!

I want to  send warm wishes to Michele Molotsky in her new role with the DC Government as a specialist with the Department of Parks and Recreation.  Thanks, Michele, for all your efforts on our behalf over these nine years of service at the Council!

And, congrats on the completion of the first Ward Two dog park!  

A Reason to Celebrate

Jubilant cheers, fireworks, dancing in the streets! The scene is 14th & U. The occasion is our NEW PRESIDENT!


I'm also celebrating your support for my fourth term as your ANC representative!

The BIG Day is here! VOTE!

Wow!  Election Day is finally here!  I'm counting on your vote!

I just want to thank everyone for helping with my campaign and pledging a vote for me tomorrow.  The list is far too long for me to type tonight!  

So, I'll share pictures instead.  See you tomorrow!  ANC 2B09:  Precinct 141, The Reeves Center, northwest corner of 14th & U Streets, NW.  

Photographs kindness of Joel Lawson.  Thanks, Joel!

"I hope you'll consider voting for Ramon.  Because of his experience and his

service as both chair of the ANC and our SMD commissioner, he's able to really make a

difference on our behalf.  He understands what the job entails, how to

navigate the government matrix, and how to be a bridge between constituents

and business + government.  The regulatory boards that require ANC input &

testimony recognize and respect him, which helps our voices to be

considered.  He's highly regarded at 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, too.

And, he knows how to achieve results that benefit our everyday lives." 

Dan Gamber, Caroline Street Residents Association: “Ramon has strived to balance the interests of the business (particularly locally owned) AND residential communities. He does not oppose liquor licenses but does try to ensure that the result is not a night club that destroys our sleep .... He does not oppose major construction projects like now proposed for the Hilton and the 14 & U corner, but works to ensure that they will be good neighbors. I fully support Ramon's reelection. Not only is his approach to development balanced, he knows a lot about working with DC departments and about the history of our area.”

Kay Eckles, long time resident of T Street, community activist and President of the Residential Action Coalition and recent recipient of a DC Council honor, endorsed me as one who has served as an “ally working for balanced growth, historic preservation, licensing, planning and zoning. These are the fundamentals that guarantee and sustain the quality of community life. Mr. Estrada offers us the gift of historical memory and years of community involvement.”

The Nolando Condominiums on T Street issued a notice of support for my re-election.

Ellen Mercer, former director of the Dupont Circle Citizens Association (DCCA) and resident of 16th Street, also expresses her support of our campaign by saying that “Mr. Estrada has served our neighborhood incredibly well. Anyone who is paying attention (to the issues) would vote for Mr. Estrada."

The Campaign would also like to thank local business owner Carlos Buruca, El Paraiso Restaurant on 14th Street, for hosting a delicious fundraiser!

You Can Help

In our neighborhood, judging from the lively stream of people visible on their way to and from work, at restaurants and cafes, and browsing shops, our current economic crunch is not immediately obvious. And, during tough times, DC typically enjoys some economic insulation (see my post from 10-17-08). However, there are many people in neighborhood in need of shelter, food, and medical services. This weekend (and again on 11-22-08 on the National Mall) there's an opportunity to help people experiencing homelessness - You can participate in a Mini-Walk that's cosponsored by Dupont Circle Citizens Association (DCCA) and FannieMae Help the Homeless for the benefit of Charlie's Place, which provides nutritious meals, clothing, classes, barbering services, space for personal hygiene and a stable address to receive and send out mail, and connections with other social service providers. So, consider helping by participating in either this weekend's mini-walk (see flier), the November 22 Annual Walk for the Homeless on the Mall, and/or by donating to or volunteering at Charlie's Place.

The health of our neighborhoods hinges on a ample supply of engaged residents and businesses, and I hope you will join me in supporting not only our local providers of social services, but also our businesses, who generously donate food and services to community organizations. Also, there are several organizations, that you may already know about, working to help to promote our neighborhood businesses; here are some of their websites:
http://www.dupontcircle.biz/
http://dcmap.org/default.aspx
http://www.freshfarmmarkets.org/
http://www.14andufarmersmarket.com/
http://www.thinklocalfirstdc.org/
http://www.midcitylife.com/mbamain.html

Thanks,
Ramon
Ramon Estrada
Chair ANC2B
SMD ANC 2B09
raestrada2b09@gmail.com
ramon.estrada@dupontcircleanc.net

A Friendly Reminder

Judging from the lively stream of people visible on their way to and from work, at restaurants and cafes, and browsing shops, our current economic crunch is not immediately obvious. And, during tough times, DC typically enjoys some economic insulation (see my post from 10-17-08). However, there have been some long standing establishments that have recently closed, including Olson's Records and Books.

The health of our neighborhoods hinge on a ample supply of engaged residents and businesses, and I hope you will join me in supporting our businesses through this slow period. There are several organizations, that you may already know about, working to help to promote our neighborhood businesses; here are some of their websites:

http://www.dupontcircle.biz/

http://dcmap.org/default.aspx

http://www.freshfarmmarkets.org/

http://www.14andufarmersmarket.com/

http://www.thinklocalfirstdc.org/

http://www.midcitylife.com/mbamain.html

Thanks,
RAMON
raestrada2b09@gmail.com
ramon.estrada@dupontcircleanc.net

UPCOMING

Monday, November 3rd:
Dupont Circle Citizen's Association Monthly Membership Meeting

Topic: DC's Financial State
Guests: Dr. Natwar Gandhi, DC CFO & Councilmember Jack Evans
Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Location: German Historical Institute (GHI) 1607 New Hampshire Ave., NW

Thanks for Your Support

Your support and endorsements are making this campaign a tremendous success.

Thanks to all who have hosted 'Meet & Greets,' organized fundraisers, contributed, and issued endorsements including:

Dan Gamber, Caroline Street Residents Association, who says “Ramon has strived to balance the interests of the business (particularly locally owned) AND residential communities. He does not oppose liquor licenses but does try to ensure that the result is not a night club that destroys our sleep (see history of Cada Vez and Club U). He does not oppose major construction projects like now proposed for the Hilton and the 14 & U corner, but works to ensure that they will be good neighbors. I fully support Ramon's reelection. Not only is his approach to development balanced, he knows a lot about working with DC departments and about the history of our area.”

Kay Eckles, long time resident of T Street, community activist and President of the Residential Action Coalition and recent recipient of a DC Council honor, endorsed me as one who has served as an “ally working for balanced growth, historic preservation, licensing, planning and zoning. These are the fundamentals that guarantee and sustain the quality of community life. Mr. Estrada offers us the gift of historical memory and years of community involvement.”

The Nolando Condominiums on T Street issued a notice of support for my Re-election Campaign.

Ellen Mercer, former director of the Dupont Circle Citizens Association (DCCA) and resident of 16th Street, also expresses her support of our campaign by saying that “Mr. Estrada has served our neighborhood incredibly well. Anyone who is paying attention (to the issues) would vote for Mr. Estrada."

The Campaign would also like to thank local business owner Carlos Buruca, El Paraiso Restaurant on 14th Street, for serving as a gracious host of one of our fundraisers!

What's really going on at 14th & T Streets, NW

Several neighbors have called asking about a flier that was placed in their mail slots by my opponent for the ANC2B09 seat. On both his flier and on blogs, my opponent talks about the purchase of 1840 14th Street, NW by Room and Board and suggests a detrimental effect on the community and local businesses because it “will push out several local business owners.”

So, what is this all about… ? Yes, the subject is the large, yellow brick building at the southwest corner of 14th and T Streets, with the graffiti around the perimeter, which has stood empty for a couple of years since the plans for a mixed use condo project were abandoned, with 'For Lease' signs posted. (See my earlier post on the building's history and developments over the years.) Yes, the building is still empty - unoccupied, not leased - so no businesses are being displaced from the building by Room and Board coming in.

The displaced businesses mentioned in the flier and on blogs refer a group of several local business owners who presented a concept plan to the ANC this summer (for a 24-7 diner, comedy club, yoga and dance studio). Since then, we were told that the group was still in the process of lease negotiations. More recently, I learned that the building was for sale.

It is unfortunate that the local business group was unable to lease or purchase the property. And, contrary to some rumors being disseminated, the ANC was not involved in any of these matters. In fact, because there was no lease, nor ABC applications, the matter never came before the ANC for any approvals. And, despite my opponent's suggestions otherwise, it is not the role of the ANC Commission to undo contracts. It's too bad that my opponent chooses to mischaracterize the situation and my record in his attempt to promote himself. I can assure you that I'll continue to bridge constituent concerns and business objectives in our area and I'll continue to support, facilitate and recruit local businesses to our neighborhood.

Everyone wants to see this property improved and occupied and the DC-based property owner tells me that the building will be renovated in keeping with its historic character. This is great news for the community and is in keeping with the ArtsOverlay. Since this news was reported, I've been receiving messages from nearby residents that they are elated that the building will be restored and occupied.

The particulars of why the local business group didn't finalize the signing of a lease, or ultimately purchase the building have not been reported. The building owner did confirm that Room and Board is in a position to move forward. And, as has been the case in our neighborhood and in other neighborhoods across the city, adding a national entity with resources to improve historic buildings and create additional activity has shown to enhance and complement the local business scene. We saw this happen with the additional of Whole Foods on P Street, NW.

At this at this juncture, it would probably be more productive to assist the businesses, which were vying for the location, by suggesting other possibilities for space in the neighborhood.
There are many spaces for lease along the 14th & U corridor.

Thanks for your time. Feel free to be in touch 202.412.9434 or raestrada2B09@gmail.com

To Answer Your Questions

About 1840 14th Street, NW

Several neighbors have called asking about a flier that was placed in their mail slots by my opponent for the ANC2B09 seat. On both his flier and on blogs, my opponent talks about the purchase of 1840 14th Street, NW by Room and Board and suggests a detrimental effect on the community and local businesses because it “will push out several local business owners.”

So, what is this all about… ? Yes, the subject is the large, yellow brick building at the southwest corner of 14th and T Streets, with the graffiti around the perimeter, which has stood empty for a couple of years since the plans for a mixed use condo project were abandoned, 'For Lease' signs appeared. (See my earlier post on the building's history and developments over the years.) Yes, the building is still empty - unoccupied, not leased - so no businesses will be displaced by Room and Board coming in.

It appears that my opponent, in his reference to displaced businesses, is talking about several local business owners who presented a concept plan to the ANC this summer (for a 24-7 diner, comedy club, yoga and dance studio) and told the community that they were amidst lease negotiations and alcohol license applications for the location. When we didn't hear back from this group, I talked with the owner of the yoga establishment who told me that lease negotiations were still underway. More recently, I learned that the building was for sale.

Now, it has been reported that the owner of the building has accepted a purchase contract by Room and Board . And with this news, I've been receiving messages from nearby residents that they are elated that the building will be restored and occupied. I have also talked with the owner of the building who confirmed that the building has been sold and that it will be restored in keeping with its historic character. This is great news for the community and is in keeping with the ArtsOverlay.

The particulars of why the local business group didn't finalize the signing of a lease, or ultimately purchase the building have not been reported. However, my opponent's assertions that ANC 2B disapproved plans by the group are simply untrue. Neither I, nor the ANC, had any control over leasing arrangements or whose contract was accepted by the owner. I wholly support our local businesses and will continue to support, facilitate and recruit local businesses to our neighborhood. However, in this instance, the current owner of the property is DC-based and has signed a contract with Room and Board, a nationally known furniture company, which has resources to move forward. And, as has been the case in our neighborhood and in other neighborhoods across the city, adding a national entity with resources to improve historic buildings and create additional activity has shown to enhance and complement the local business scene.

And, despite my record of serving to bridge constituent interests and local businesses, "undoing" a contractual agreement, as my opponent is suggesting, is NOT a role of a ANC Commissioner. My role is to represent constituents of ANC2B09, who have expressed overwhelming support for Room and Board coming to this location.

My opponent continues to mischaracterize my record as part of his campaign. He also contradicts his claim that he is representing your views for more development at 14th & U by attempting to foil the prospect of Room and Board's purchase of 1840 14th Street, NW. It is truly unfortunate that the local businesses, to which my opponent refers, were unable to lease or purchase the building; however, at this juncture, it would probably be more productive to assist them in finding another space in the neighborhood.

If you have questions or comments, please feel free to contact me: raestrada2B09@gmail.com

Interview Q's + A's for GreaterGreater Blog Post

- for readers interested in reading the Q + A from my interview with neighborhood blogger David Alpert, click here.

- feel free to be in touch: raestrada2B09@gmail.com or 202.412.9434

Signed Contract for the Taylor Motor Company Building at 14th & T, NW

You have all been waiting for news about the development of the building located at the southwest corner of 14th & T Streets, NW. (See my previous post for the history of this building.) And, many of you have already been in touch following yesterday's report of an agreement for the purchase of the building by Room and Board , the contemporary classic furniture company with locations in the West and Midwest.

Your feedback on this prospect has been resoundingly positive, many pointing out that Room and Board would complement our neighborhood retail, which is shaping up as a burgeoning center for furniture, art, home accessories and housewares. The area seems to be evolving from our history as an 'auto showroom corridor' to 'design showroom corridor.' And, with the density of our residential stock increasing, the proportional local demand for home furnishings (combined with the attraction of city-wide and area-wide shoppers) should provide ample business for the many retailers located here.

Room and Board would join our diverse retail offerings for furniture and housewares, which include:

Goodwood
Urban Essentials
Dragonfly Asian Antiques
Home Rule
Go Mama Go
Millennium Decorative Arts
Hunted House
RCKNDY
Muleh
Vastu
Reincarnation Furnishings
Capital Carpet & Furniture
Mitchell Gold
Miss Pixie's
Ruff and Ready
Simply Home
Timothy Paul Carpets & Textiles
and more... (plus, there's a new design/lighting business coming to 14th soon)

The interesting aspect of this prospect is that the location will be readapted and restored according to the requirements of the Historic Preservation Review Board and will bring back the luster of this beautiful building. And, like the Mitchell Gold store further south on 14th Street; the new West Elm at the former Woodward and Lothrop building; the Design within Reach in Adams Morgan; the building at 14th + T can effectively house a national company while retaining its distinctive, historic character and complementing the surrounding retail.

More updates soon.

Dear Neighbors

Dear Neighbors,

As your current ANC 2B09 Commissioner and ANC 2B Chair, I am seeking another term to continue improving and preserving our unique community.

Moving to the neighborhood thirty years ago, my initiation into DC neighborhood organizing began when it became evident that solving problems here required a unified effort. In those early days we:

• donned our orange hats to patrol the streets and drove the drug dealers away.
• worked with MPD to stop a lively alleyway prostitution business.
• worked on the ‘rat problem’ with the business owners here to remove dumpsters from the
public space.
• wrested a property from a slum landlord on the block,and with the help Georgetown University
Law School and W.I.S.H. Foundation, the building was secured, renovated and returned it
to the tenants as a clean and comfortable home.

All of these activities led to my initial election as Commissioner of ANC 2B09 in 2002. Since then, we’ve made great strides in preserving and improving the community. For those who are new to the neighborhood or to the ANC election process and would like more information, go to:

http://www.dupontcircleanc.net/

For those of you who have known me as a long-time neighbor, community organizer, and ANC 2B09 Commissioner, I hope that you will talk with your neighbors about my record of supporting residents and neighborhood businesses. Most recently, much of my time has been devoted to studying and supporting the new and exciting developments that are slated for the west side of 14th Street. For more information about these upcoming projects, you can click on my previous posts here, which offer details on the history and development of several sites.

With your vote, we will ensure that our neighborhood continues to be one of the best places in DC to live, work, invest, and play.

With warm regards,

RAMON

Another week!

This week has sped by...  and we're reaching the 'home stretch.'  I really appreciate all the help in hunting down my missing campaign signs.  Quite a few signs were discovered and retrieved from trash cans behind a condo building in the area....  However, the 'sign vandal' continues to allude neighbors and the MPD....

On a more positive note, the 'meet & greets' that block and building reps have arranged are taking shape.  And, if you're interested in attending an upcoming fundraising event for my campaign, please drop me a line ASAP at raestrada2B09@gmail.com or call 202.412.9434. 

More news soon!

Big Shoes to Fill - A Mini-Walk to Help the Homeless

This is a great opportunity to walk the walk ! Join your neighbors for a walk through the neighborhood to Help the Homeless. The proceeds from the walk help Charlie's Place to continue their good work to provide valuable services. Click on the puppy to enlarge the announcement below:

Re-election Campaign Sign Mystery

Over the past two days, one third of my campaign signs have been torn down from light posts. Some were found in the street and some in neighborhood trash cans. If you witness the removal of signs - belonging to ANY candidate - please call 311 or 911 to report the incident. Meanwhile, the signs placed in neighbors' yards seem to be in good shape. Feel free to call (202.412.9434) if you would like to place a sign in your yard or window. All your gestures of support are greatly appreciated.

-Ramon

Economic News & Free Home Energy Audits

Economic Forecasting

If you missed today's NPR Metro Connection radio program, "Wall Street and Washington,"
you can listen to the segment online at http://wamu.org/programs/mc/.
Is DC always sheltered during economic down turns? Is our local economy vulnerable? Which sectors are effected?
This program features a discussion with economist Stephen Fuller, Director for the Center for Regional Analysis at
George Mason University School of Public Policy.

Also, yesterday Mayor Fenty made public his proposal to reduce the city’s budget gap. The DC website states that, "...his proposal was developed to respond immediately and appropriately to changes in the economy."

Going Green : From the DC Department of Energy (DDOE)

Free Home Energy Audits for District Residents
From http://ddoe.dc.gov/ddoe/site/default.asp

For questions about this program, constituents should call the DDOE Energy Office at (202) 673-6700.

Washington, DC – District residents can prepare their homes for winter with a free energy audit from the District Department of the Environment (DDOE). The audits recommend easy, inexpensive ways to improve energy efficiency. For example, reducing air leaks can save up to 30 percent of the energy consumed in a home.

“We have great, historic older homes in the District,” said DDOE Director George S. Hawkins. “But many of them lose as much energy as leaving a window open all winter. Our energy audits will help residents stop wasting energy, so they can save money and reduce global warming too.”

DDOE has contracted with Elysian Energy, LLC and Patuxent Environmental Group to perform the audits. Inspectors measure energy characteristics, such as insulation levels, window efficiency, wall-to-wall ratios, heating and cooling system efficiency, the solar orientation of the home, and water heating systems. Diagnostic testing, which may include a blower door for air leakage and duct leakage testing, is often part of the rating.

At the end of the process, the homeowner or renter receives a one- to five-star rating for energy efficiency, and a report listing cost-effective ways to improve the rating. DDOE also offers information on tax credits and financing for energy-efficient home improvements.

For more information, or to schedule an energy audit, call DDOE’s Energy Office at (202) 673-6700 or visit their website.

Single Member (but NOT Single Issue) Representation

You can count on me to continue to represent your interests in all policy issues that affect our particular neighborhood and our quality of life. This includes a wide range of policies and programs such as traffic, parking, recreation, street improvements, zoning, economic development, police protection, sanitation & trash collection, liquor licenses, and DC's annual budget - matters that impact our everyday life.

In each of these areas, I will continue to ensure that your voice shapes government policies and outcomes. The Single Member Districts that make up our ANCs are "the government bodies with the closest official ties to the people in a neighborhood."

As your representative, I shall continue to deliver advisory views to District government agencies in the Executive Branch as well as to the DC Council, including testimony to independent agencies, boards and commissions, under rules of procedure. By law, I will also present views to federal government agencies.

Through Single Member District (2B09) representation, constituent views are given “great weight” when the final government decisions are made.

I shall continue to effectively represent your views on the wide range of issues.

Thanks again for your continued support.

Please be in touch: raestrada2B09@gmail.com or 202.412.9434.

More News from Around the Neighborhood

Greetings!

During this holiday weekend and beautiful weather, it's a perfect opportunity to enjoy all that our neighborhood has to offer!

I hope you had a chance to visit the 14th and U Street Farmer's Market (on the sidewalk in front of the Reeves Center on the U Street side) this morning to see the array of fresh offerings! Also featured, was Chef Susan Holt with her delightful creations using farm-fresh ingredients. Susan's new cooking school, CulinAerie, "The Pinnacle of Food and Wine Instruction," finds its new home at 1131 14th Street, NW (www.CulinAerie.com / 1888-789-COOK), "a glass-fronted street level space with two large state of the art kitchen classrooms for both participation and demonstration cooking classes."

If you missed this morning's farmer's market, visit the Dupont Circle Fresh Farm Market tomorrow from 9AM to 1PM. There, you'll not only have the opportunity to shop for fresh vegetables, cheese, meat, eggs, flowers, and plants (there's also wonderful handmade soap), you can purchase your advance tickets to the upcoming Annual Dupont Circle House Tour and Tea.

It's wonderful to see how busy our neighborhood sidewalks are today with neighbors and visitors. Hopefully, you are not in front of your screen reading this blurb - but out visiting the shops, galleries, restaurants, post office, dry cleaners, or chatting with neighbors on the corner. Our neighborhood has unique offerings - from food to furniture to jazz to theatre. ANC 2B09 includes many must-see stops within the boundary and all around it, including but not limited to: Goodwood, LoveCafe, Utopia, Coppi's, El Paraiso Restaurant, Ruff and Ready, Station Nine, Millennium, Nevin Kelly Gallery, Nanna's, Simply Home, 24-7, Hunted House, Jo-Jo's, Results, Bang, Source Theatre, Local 16, Cafe 1612, Greater Goods, and many more!

Here are a few upcoming events to add to your calendar:

Dupont Circle Annual House Tour and Tea - October 19th, 2008

Reel Affirmations GLBT Film Festival - Begins October 16th, 2008

Taste of Dupont: A Culinary and Visual Experience - October 28, 2008

Mid City Artists Fall Open Studio - December 6 & 7, 2008

Logan Circle House Tour - December 7th, 2008

More to come! Enjoy the day!

More News about Projects in our Neighborhood

There has been much interest in the Taylor Motor Company Building, located on the southwest corner of 14th and T Streets, NW. The building, originally a car showroom for the Taylor

Motor Company, served for several decades and until a few years ago as home to the Church of the Rapture, whose congregation held services, operated a summer youth camp, and hosted many of our community meetings. With developers flocking to the neighborhood seeking projects, the church entered into a partnership to develop the building into retail and condominiums and began planning for a future relocation with the ten million dollars from the sale of the building. The plans for the T Street Flats, designed by Sorg and Associates, were presented to the community and made their way through the DC approval process. The original plans called for a condominium development with approximately 38-42 units, including 'work/live' units and ground floor retail. During the real estate boom, the original pricing estimates ranged from four hundred thousand up to a million dollars. However, with the shifting condo market, the project was stalled and then tabled. For Lease signs appeared on the building, but the building continued to look empty. Last year, Philippa Hughes, an art event organizer, in conjunction with other local art venues, staged an art event at the location. Part of the event included the addition of 'art' grafitti on the exterior of the building. The event was a huge success and provided a the opportunity for newcomers and 'old-timers' alike to listen to cutting edge music and enjoy the art installations.

Many proposals have been made for the unoccupied space since it became clear that it wasn't going to be developed into condos. Most recently, a four way proposal was made to bring a diner to the location along with a comedy club, a yoga studio and a dance studio. Much excitement was generated by this four way concept. However, most recently, I was told that the building is up for sale again and that the four prospective tenants were still tied up in lease negotiations. As soon as there is more news about proposals for this location, I'll let you know.

New Projects Coming to Our Neighborhood - Utopia Project

Utopia Project

Many of you have heard about the proposed mixed use development project at 14th & U Streets, NW, also known as the Utopia Project. Understanding this complex project requires some background knowledge about the parcels that make up the site, as well as knowledge of the approval process, the requirements of the historic and zoning code, and the concerns of the businesses and residents that currently inhabit the surrounding neighborhood. I offer the following information for those of you who are interested in learning more about the issues associated with this project. This is a lot of information! And, I hope you find the following information useful, especially since there seems to be a lot of 'misinformation' being circulated about the project.

"One important criteria for new development is that it be compatible with the existing neighborhood and not adversely affect the neighboring properties or pose detrimental effects to the health, safety, convenience or general welfare of those living, working or visiting in the area."

A Brief History of the Corner at 14th & U Streets, NW

The history of this corner is quite fascinating, as it was once the heart of "Black Broadway" (a term attributed to singer Pearl Bailey), a cultural center of the African American community through the 1960's. Many great talents, such as Duke Ellington (who grew up in the neighborhood), Ella Fitzgerald, Lois Armstrong and Cab Calloway, performed at venues along 14th and U Streets. The intersection of 14th and U Streets was the epicenter of the 1968 riots sparked by the assassination of Martin Lurther King, Jr. Many of the historic buildings were burnt beyond repair. In the aftermath of the riots, the neighborhood declined dramatically, becoming blighted and best known for drugs and prostitution. Some of my neighbors, who were here during that time, remember swarms of hundreds of addicts flocking to the area for drugs. The stubborn presence of drugs in the neighborhood is not completely gone, however the long time and ongoing partnership between residents, businesses, our police force have helped to reverse the reputation of this area.

During the 1980's, the development of The Reeves Center for city offices at the northwest corner of 14th & U helped to bring redevelopment back to U Street. The building is named after Frank D. Reeves, DC's first black committeeman for the Democratic Party and was designed by architect Paul Devarouax who, as a soldier on duty dispatched to the riots, had witnessed the destruction of the neighborhood. Several years after the Reeves Center was completed, the construction of the metro system to the area began - with mixed results - the original contractor had to be replaced and the project far exceeded its completion schedule, jeopardizing the businesses that tried to hold on while the roads and sidewalks were torn up.


The 1990's saw some construction at the corner of 14th and U - the rehabilitation of historic townhouses in the 1400 block of U Street (now home to Utopia, Coppi's, Simply Home restaurants) and construction of one story red brick buildings (with fast-food restaurants and a clothing store). The El Paraiso Restaurant and Ruff and Ready followed. The one-story commercial buildings (with the original driveway between them) that filled in between El Paraiso and Ruff and Ready were bulldozed by their owner around 1992, and the parking lot at 1912-1914 14th Street was created.

Despite difficult years, the neighborhood has undergone a marked change with unique, diverse businesses setting up in the neighborhood and many new residential units built, under construction and planned for the near future.

The Site Today and the Approval Process

The site for the proposed Utopia project at 14th & U is a patchwork of individual parcels, owned by various entities. There are existing businesses in both historically contributing and non-contributing buildings and a parking lot on the various parcels. Currently, there are existing setbacks and rear yards. Development of this scale requires the assemblage of all of the lots, or agreements with the owners for long term land leases. The lots that make up the combined parcel are zoned differently: CR to the north and C-3-A to the south. Furthermore, the lots fall within the Greater U Street Historic District and, as such, carry conditions and protections according to the Historic Preservation Code.

One important criteria for new development is that it be compatible with the existing neighborhood and not adversely affect neighboring properties or pose detrimental effects to the health, safety, convenience or general welfare of persons living , working, or visiting in the area. There are several layers to the approval process including (1) historic preservation review (the Historic Preservation Review Board looks at the size and massing in the context of the historic neighborhood and later the appearance/materials), (2) zoning variance approval in the event that the project requires conditions that are not allowed by right, and (3) DCRA permit approval. Sometimes, other agencies such as DDOT are brought into the project, if required. These approvals are gained separately, with each agency acting within the realm of its authority. For instance, HPRB cannot consider zoning or transportation issues. Therefore, if the applicant seeks HPRB approval and comes before the ANC for the same, the ANC can only act on the historic preservation issues brought before it. Later, when the applicant requests zoning variance approval from the ANC, the commission must examine the specific requests, which are separate from historic preservation concerns. With zoning variance requests, the burden of proof is on the applicant to satisfy the 'three part test.' Basically, the applicant has to prove that there is an exceptional condition or situation, a practical difficulty and that the relief can be granted without substantial detriment to the public good or zone plan. The requests are weighed against the impact that the variance would have on the surrounding community with regard to public safety and other quality of life issues.

Advocating for Constituents

The Single Member District Commissioner's role is to represent his/her constituents in this process. In my SMD (2B09), we have always been proactive, working toward cooperation and balance. Meeting with constituents, potential developers, commercial establishments, city agencies, and councilmembers is all part of the process to achieve a win-win solution. Being as informed as possible and advocating for my constituents has led to many successful negotiations and relationships. And, for many years, we have been able to act to both preserve and improve the unique character and livability of our neighborhood. For the Utopia project, we have pulled together stakeholders to help advance this development. Legitimate concerns from constituents and business stakeholders about the continued functionality of the alley systems, which accommodate a wide range common needs, the impact of the large scale development on the surrounding two to four story buildings, and other quality of life issues have been communicated to the developer and architect. Some changes to the plans have been made, based on these suggestions and some based on intervention of our councilmember. The DCCA, DCC and the HPRB have also weighed in on particular aspects of the building's conceptual design. Each group has their distinctive role in shaping the project. The ANCs role is to be the voice for constituents, especially those most effected by the project, and to work toward a balanced solution within the framework of the DC Code. The ANC asked the developer for an alternative parking garage entry plan, a transportation study, and to amend various versions of the plan to take into account existing life on the block. The transportation study supports the garage entry solution put forth by the community, the local businesses, the ANC2B, DCCA and Councilmember Evans. As ANC2B09 Commissioner, I look forward to continuing to work with the developer, the community and the relevant DC agencies through the 'next steps' of this exciting project.