And Now, Anacostia

Turning the Page.

2011-10-27T12:25:00.022-04:00

I started this blog in the summer of 2007, about a month before buying a house in the neighborhood. Inspired by other neighborhood blogs across the city, I wanted to provide a casual and visual place for others to see Anacostia the way I was starting to see it, and hoped it would help push forth a counterpoint to the generally-accepted belief that Anacostia was a scary place with nothing to offer, that you only found yourself in if you slept through your Metro stop or got lost on 295.

During my three years living in Anacostia, the change often seemed so incremental that sometimes I'd have to look up before and after pictures to remind myself that it was even happening. But it was. Houses on every block were restored. Trees were planted. Friday night art openings at Honfleur and Vivid hosted more and more newbies and outsiders checking out the neighborhood. Seeing it as something other than the stereotypes. A coffee shop opened, then a neighborhood bar opened. For the first time in a long time, neighbors, visitors, and workers had places to grab a bite or a drink in this part of town. Without buying it through bullet-proof glass. Sounds so simple, but it was a seachange.

For a neighborhood with a gorgeous housing stock, Metro, Circulator, and Bikeshare access, two main streets, beautiful spring blossoms, river frontage, and that je ne sais quoi embodied in things like block association Christmas caroling, the front porch neighbor-waving culture, and the beacon of historic leadership and values that is the Frederick Douglass Estate, what Anacostia has always needed is just people and institutions to help boost it that next step up from where it already is. And the momentum for that, it seems, is finally building.

Is Anacostia there? Nope. Abandoned houses pockmark its streets. Barbed-wired-in parking lots mar the downtown areas that will, hopefully, one day be the neighborhood's center. People, places, and plans have and will disappoint. The overall vision isn't where it needs to be, and ward leadership still brings down the broader area that could otherwise be a lighthouse of positive and progressive change.

My friend and Anacostia cheerleader Nikki Peele said once that Anacostia isn't the next U Street, or the next Adams Morgan, or the next H Street. Whatever happens in Anacostia will turn it into the next Anacostia. It's unique. It has its own architecture, its own history, and an awesomely passionate class of eager residents that just want it to develop into an inclusive, amenity-filled, and good-looking neighborhood.

For the people living in Anacostia who are packing out Uniontown Bar & Grill every night, filling up Historic Anacostia Block Association meetings, and hoping a few more decent places open up shop in the neighborhood, Barracks Row is close, but MLK Ave? That's closer. More general and lifestyle amenities are needed, and as more businesses take a chance and succeed, more will come. More art shows will happen. More houses will get their grooves back. More infrastructural, architectural, heck -- maybe even political -- changes will take place.

Which is why in a lot of ways it kills me, as someone who has really loved this role, to admit/realize/say outloud/think about the fact that it's time to turn the page on Ye Olde Anacostia Blog. But truthfully, this "turning of the page" for me has been a while coming.

"At crucial moments of choice, most of the business of choosing is already over." It's an Iris Murdoch quotation that my dad has, ever since I was a kid, reminded me of. We can hem, haw, and deliberate all we want, but usually we've already -- whether in plan or action -- made up our minds. When I moved out of Anacostia and into the Near Southeast/Navy Yard neighborhood in summer 2010, I knew things would change for me and the blog. And then, almost as soon as I moved, I ran for and was elected ANC Commissioner -- not something I had planned to do before moving, but government-level change-making was always something that interested me and so I dove in head first. As a result, my first neighborhood advocacy priority has shifted across the river.

Until now, I've kept up the blog because I know it's still a resource. Some of my favorite emails are the ones from people saying they've read the blog and are interested in moving to or buying in the neighborhood. Or from people finally feeling like their home turf is being celebrated. But I'm no longer a first responder in Anacostia. At this point, I don't "happen upon" those incremental changes, or attend the neighborhood and Ward 8 meetings like I used to. Without being there day in and day out, I've lost a large part of the voice that made this blog the resource it once was.

Anacostia hasn't stopped moving forward. People keep on moving in, fixing up houses and filling condos, thinking up creative ideas, and communicating with each other on new channels. New construction is finally coming to the neighborhood. I'm even hearing talk of ethnic restaurants and community food co-ops. What, in Anacostia? Yuupp.

This isn't my goodbye to Anacostia. It's my recognition that at this stage, in order to be an effective advocate for anywhere, I can't be the voice for everywhere. I'm in love with DC -- with neighborhoods east and west of the Anacostia River -- and I promise to keep doing everything in my power to knit these incredible places together even more.

Thank you so much to all of you who have engaged with the blog and the neighborhood, and for giving me the opportunity to talk about a place I like a whole heck of a lot. Anacostia, you'll always make me weak at the knees.

How to stay connected:

Blogs: East Shop Live Anacostia, The Art of Ward 8, Anacostia Yogi, DC Minnie (Minnesota Ave), Congress Heights on the Rise.

Historic Anacostia Google Group: Click Here

People to follow on Twitter: ESLAnacostia, AnacostiaYogi, TheAdvoc8te, UniontownBar, HonfleurGallery, FirstHomeDC, TheDCHive.

Realtor who knows the neighborhood: Darrin Davis.

Anacostia's Newest Mural - What Do You Think?

2011-10-24T23:15:00.000-04:00

Designed and painted by Bryan Conner, Anacostia's newest mural sits at the intersection of MLK Ave and U Street SE. It is bright, hopeful, and looks professionally done. It has cherry blossoms, a great MLK quotation, and buzzwords signaling what is important to the neighborhood: nurturing, community, light, culture, and respect.

the mural fades from being highly detailed to simple line drawings...

artist Bryan Conner spraying the final finishing touches...

I love the pop of the cherry blossoms...

the view from across the street...

I like this quotation because it really represents what's going on in the neighborhood: a growing dedication to seeing it develop into a place that it inclusive, beautiful, and bright. What do you think of the new mural?

(And remember what this spot used to look like?)

A TreeHouse Grows in Austin

2011-10-23T00:34:00.000-04:00

Anacostia isn't Austin. But there are always lessons and best practices and cool things that can brought and taught from place to place. TreeHouse, simply, is the "Whole Foods / green version of Home Depot" (but not quite as big as the other big boxes) and just opened last week in Austin, Texas. The company was founded by a friend of mine who used to live in DC, so fingers are crossed that he'd be interested in one day bringing his concept back east.

The store is certainly filling a niche. People want homes that don't poison them, that are made with sustainably sourced and harvested materials, and that can be maintained with earth-friendlier products than what are found at most places.

Check it out:

great logo, solar panels on top, what's not to love?

this is what makes the store pretty awesome.

Got a question in need of a solution?

quantity and diversity: what you do not get at the other big boxes...

tile made from recycled toilets? yes, please.

again -- it's all green.

another view of the general feel of the store...

how cool is it that they tell you to ask honest questions about their products?

plant selection chosen for climate suitability and nativeness.

What do you think? I know the first store just opened two days ago, but is this a concept that needs to spread? www.TreeHouseOnline.com

(Thanks to my awesome parents who snapped these photos!)

Guest Post: Time for a New Ward 8

2011-10-11T09:55:00.005-04:00

By Anonymous

After another weekend of trash cleanup behind my fellow Anacostans, I have to say that some are simply too trashy, have no regard for public appearance, and simply purchase, eat, and dispose on the spot. I have seen everything from tires, to bicycles to items too unsanitary to mention. It's never "everybody," but it is certainly "somebody." After a year on the Historic side, observing, cleaning, contacting authorities, attending meetings, seeing outcomes, etc., it seems the community is on one page, yet elected officials and decision-makers are on another. How are we defining progress? Believe it or not, for some, more social services is progress. For others, it is more of the same.

My issue borders on the behavioral. Dirty is just plain dirty. Foul language is just plain foul language. A negative outlook and blaming society, is simply a negative outlook that continues to blame society. It seems, some prefer to keep it this way. I think we need better council representaiton. I don't hate Barry, but after years and years and years of representing Ward 8, I think we need somebody who can interact with other council members in a more progressive way. We need new blood, new ideas, and simply new waysof doing things. Other wards have issues too, and our council is just plain jacked up. DC politics is a joke in my opinion and elected officials undermine their effectiveness by creating an atmospehere of mistrust over a series of missteps, financial and otherwise. Good luck pushing statehood...

I respect all individuals, but things were moving under Fenty and at least he was decisive. Under Gray, we've had nothing but scandals and issues surrounding his vetting process. With the drama, what is he really accomplishing? Will he take a stand on the11th st bridge project? Can he help produce the 1.5 million to install streetcar tracks so that we avoid a disastrous short-term decision? It's hard to keep any progressive momentum going in DC. 4 years is not enough time to let initiatives play out, when you take transition into account. Throw in a couple of scandals, and we have "Amateur Night at the Apollo". You have to impress quickly....or out comes the sandman.

I think residents personalize things too much in this city, at the expense of looking at things objectively. In Ward 8, the uneducated simply outnumber the educated. Not that education is everything, but politicians play residents. People in a neglected part of town come out against the very transportation initiaitives that are designed to increase access to points west. How smart is that? I don't think anybody will open businesses, thereby increasing jobs in an area inundated with too many social services, resulting in people out on the street. Like I'm really going to take my wife and kids to a sit-down restaurant in that type of environment? Despite being walkable, we NEVER walk to the library. It's not just about the access. It's also about the experience. Walkability is not just about distance. People with families don't want their kids constantly seeing liquor stores and laundromats and people out doing nothing, standing around, wasting time, when we need workers to compete in a global environment. Local security impacts national security....

Lastly, I am all for neighborhood meetings and participation. I consider it a civic duty. However, it seems various "officials" and business leaders show up, produce great looking renderings, listen to the community, and hear great ideas, but to no avail. If the people who care enough to show up, who actually own property, pay taxes, clean up where the city doesn't, etc. are voicing one direction, why does it always seem that decisions are being made against the wishes of those who are actually investing the time, energy and resources? Why are secret deals going down resulting in more social services on Good Hope Road? Why do we get Save-A-Lot, when we clearly said we wanted something of higher quality. We already have Safeway and Giant in ward 8. Why are these decisions kept secret, where we find out about them afterwards. For all the meetings we have, Ward 8 is not a very transparent place....

What this says to me is that people aren't taking us seriously. When I say "us" I mean the people who are trying to make a positive difference in improving our community, regardless of socio-economic or educational status. There should be one Ward 8. In reality, this means doing things differently. I am not a Barry hater, but I am a realist. I just think political officials higher up - and on the council - in that environment, will never really take Ward 8 seriously, until we elect somebody to represent us on the council who brings a more progressive approach. It's a new day in the economy, the country and the city, and it's time for Ward 8 to catch up. Otherwise, we will continue to be the land of the lost in a city where the other wards are embracing progress. We have to move away from this divide and conquer community set-up. For example, I live in historic Anacostia, but most forces against Ward 8 tend to group our neighborhoods together. Therefore, I believe Ward 8 has to take a more collective and unified approach on common initiatives and challenges in order to affect the type of change that is needed.

"Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breath free..."

This post was originally sent by an Anacostia resident as an email to the Historic Anacostia Google Group mailing list. To request inclusion into the Google Group, follow the instructions on the Google Group page.

Circulator Comes to Anacostia!

2011-10-06T14:19:00.005-04:00

You've probably heard the buzz or seen the big red busses zipping through the neighborhood, but Anacostia gained a pretty big new public transportation amenity this week: The Circulator.

Click to Enlarge

The new Circulator route goes from Skyland / Hillcrest, down Good Hope Road, down MLK Avenue, then across to the Navy Yard, Barracks Row, and Harris Teeter.

To download the full route map and brochure, Click Here.

Art & Jazz TONIGHT at Honfleur. Be there.

2011-09-30T14:15:00.000-04:00

Come to Honfleur Gallery for events starting at 7pm tonight. THE CONNECTION is a free jazz performance by Butch Warren and Freddie Redd, and will be accompanied by a photographic slide show by Antoine Sanfuentes. A poetry reading by local DC poet, Fred Joiner, will also happen in between sets.

Also check out the new works by Cuban mixed-media artist Gustavo Díaz Sosa. Art show opens at 7. Jazz starts at 8.

For more information, check out Honfleur Gallery's website. Be there for the goodness.

Cedar Hill Gets HPRB Approval

2011-09-29T17:14:00.003-04:00

Another step! The Cedar Hill townhouse/condo project at the corner of W and 13th Streets is on track to finally start construction... soon.

On W Street looking towards 13th.

"The Board approved the design in concept, with delegation to staff of further review, with the conditions that the V Street building be limited to two stories of height; the applicant satisfactorily address the issues raised in the staff report; and that the applicant careful revise and develop the balcony details on the Type 2 houses, the stairs, the siding on the Type 3 houses, and the width of the alley and the continuation of the 13th Street sidewalk and vegetation along it."

Still awaiting word from Stan Voudrie of Four Points, LLC as to when exactly this will start. Last I heard, the HPRB approval was one of the final steps before construction.

Progress at Environmental Design & Construction

2011-09-26T08:54:00.000-04:00

Although there's still work to be done, progress is definitely being made at the Environmental Design & Construction headquarters project at MLK and Good Hope. I love how the red brick building is being brought back to its storefront look after being boarded up for so long!

Satellite Dishes: Not Out Front, Please

2011-09-18T15:52:00.006-04:00

It truly is exciting seeing all the renovations going on in Anacostia -- each one makes such an important difference on the neighborhood's blocks. But...

It ain't cool, or allowed, to install satellite dishes on the front of a house.

When you get DirecTV or another dish service, the installers will try to install it on a surface that is easiest for them. However, they will install in the back or on the main roof if you ask for it.

These houses on W Street are a prime example:

For the sake of the historic district - and your own pocketbook (remember, the city city can fine for violations against the historic district) - please make sure to have dishes installed on the back of the house or on the roof, far enough back so that it isn't visible from the street. Thanks!

Renovations on Chester & W Streets

2011-09-12T00:01:00.001-04:00

There are a lot more renovations happening now it seems than in the past couple years...

Something's going on here ... not sure what exactly.

This house on W Street between 13th and Chester is finally getting a facade restoration!

Love when the old siding comes off and the wood is revealed...

a new old porch!

It's the little things that are making a big difference...

H Street Does Chalk...

2011-09-10T21:48:00.001-04:00

...this Will happen in Anacostia someday...

as seen at the H Street NW Chalk Walk today

The MLK Ave/MLK Drive Confusion

2011-09-08T22:51:00.008-04:00

In July of this year, the DC Council voted in favor of renaming the haphazard stretch between the new MLK Memorial on the Tidal Basin and Anacostia "Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive." Not Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue, which already exists in Anacostia and elsewhere in Ward 8, but Martin Luther King Drive.

at the corner of MLK Ave/Drive and Good Hope Road

at the corner of 13th/onramp and Good Hope Road/MLK Drive..?

But as you can see above, where exactly MLK Avenue ends and MLK Drive begins is a bit confusing. Are there sections of MLK Avenue that are also MLK Drive? Are there parts of Good Hope Road, a street that intersects with MLK Avenue, also now MLK Drive? Confusing! (and redundant...)

MLK / Good Hope Public Art Survey

2011-09-06T23:06:00.012-04:00

Art by committee often ends up being kinda watered down. But, since they're asking for community input, take a minute to give your thoughts on what might be done at the corner of MLK and Good Hope where the empty lot is now.

As I've mentioned before [see this blog post], I'd like to see a chalkboard of some sort asking the community a question. For example, something as simple as "If you owned this lot, what would you put here?" or "Love letters to Anacostia" then just paint lines for people to write their responses on. I can almost guarantee that that would be more interesting than another mural or artistic fence.

But, since I'm not the one deciding, check out this presentation on some potential ideas for the site:
1201-1203 Good Hope Rd Public Art

Then take this survey asking what Anacostia means to you and what you would like to see at the site. If you like the chalkboard idea, make sure to support it! :)

Reminder: this is a temporary installation. Do we really want to waste city money on something elaborate? The end goal here is to develop the site.

188 New Apartments Coming to Good Hope Road

2011-09-05T15:42:00.009-04:00

The Washington Post just broke the news that Chapman Development - the same company that developed the Grays at Pennsvania Avenue (AKA the Yes! Organic Market building) has purchased Murphey's Auto Body Shop and (you may want to sit down for this) plans to develop 188 apartments (by right, without zoning changes) on the site, along with 25-30,000 square feet of ground floor retail. As a comparison, the Yes! Organic building is only 118 units.

The site, located between 17th and 18th Streets on Good Hope Road, sits across the street from the Anacostia UPO and Bread for the City, and is just one building down from the Anacostia Neighborhood Library.

Yes, folks, development is finally hitting Good Hope Road (!!!), which has so much potential as it is bookended by the heart of Historic Anacostia and the more affluent and also-redeveloping Hillcrest neighborhood.

My first thoughts:

(1) This will be a precedent-setting development for the neighborhood. Because it is the first large-scale redevelopment in this part of the neighborhood, it it will set the bar for design and quality. It is hugely important that the neighborhood make known that we will accept nothing less than excellent.

(2) The article mentions that the developer might build it out as a senior-living building. Is this something the neighborhood wants or needs more of? If so/not, this needs to be made clear.

(3) As you can see, there are a lof of above-ground wires on this section of Good Hope. Some communities in the DC area have specified that with new development, wires should be undergrounded. Is this something the neighborhood wants to pursue/ask for?

Read the article in its entirety HERE.

Art Behind the Art - Friday at Blank Space SE

2011-09-02T11:09:00.004-04:00

Come out to Blank Space SE tonight at 7pm for the opening of a week-long exhibition showcasing behind-the-scenes photography from local film productions. Refreshments by Cotton’s Gourmet.

Blank Space SE is located at 1922 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE.

Saturday: Chuck Brown at Vivid Solutions

2011-08-19T09:56:00.002-04:00

The Gallery at Vivid Solutions welcomes Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-Go, to view (Un)Lock It: the Percussive People in the Go-Go Pocket, on Saturday, August 20th from 1-3pm. The exhibition of photographs by Thomas Sayers Ellis documents the current history of Go-Go, a non stop music indigenous to the Washington, D.C. area, which began with the release of Chuck’s now classic “Bustin’ Loose.” Mr. Ellis is a former Go-Go percussionist and professor of Creative Writing at Sarah Lawrence College.

Thomas will conduct a short live interview with the Godfather of Go-Go in the gallery. “I’ve interviewed Chuck Brown before and have been in numerous private and public settings over the years with him but interviewing him about his presence as a photographic symbol for a genre of music that he created, well, that’s quite different and a dream come true!” says Ellis.

After the interview, Chuck will sign photographs taken by Mr. Ellis, which will be available to the public for sale.

Old Market House Square Update

2011-08-12T09:00:00.004-04:00

Renovations at Old Market House Square on 14th Street between U and V are almost complete. Most notable are the new streetlights, new walkways, new grass, new amazingly comfortable bench courtesy of the TKF Foundation, and the brick sidewalk fixes surrounding the square.

Still coming are chess tables, Old Market House Square signage and community board, and I believe some plantings courtesy of the Anacostia Garden Club. Have you been through the square yet?

Three Art Openings Tonight in Anacostia

2011-08-05T11:10:00.007-04:00

Short version: Go to to Vivid from 6-8 and Honfleur from 7-9.
Always a good time.

Long version: (from press release)

For the fifth year running, artists rooted in Wards 7 and 8 will be featured in Honfleur Gallery’s juried East of the River exhibition, with an opening reception on August 5th from 7-9pm. The exhibition includes photography and illustration. Artist Jonathan Edwards uses cartoon style illustrations to explore serious themes of contemporary urban African-American experience. Jon Malis’ large scale prints are based on his research in the medical archives of St. Elizabeth’s hospital. Larger-than-life cross sections of brains are a chilling yet alluring reminder of the hospital’s history and impact in Southeast Washington. Lark Catoe-Emerson and Deborah Terry’s explorations in abstract photography range from the intimacy of human skin to the landscape of the urban environment. Marlon Normon, who first learned photography at Ward 8’s ARCH Training Center, engages the natural world on a macro level. Poet and photographer Danielle Scruggs’ studies of self-image in text and image round out the collection. The six artists were selected by an esteemed panel of judges including Renee Stout (renowned DC artist), Stephen Bennett Phillips (Federal Reserve) and Susanna Raab (Smithsonian‘s Anacostia Community Museum). East of the River runs from August 5- Sepetember 9th 2011.

Upstairs at Honfleur Gallery, 61, an installation-based exhibition on mapping of time and place by resident artist Mei Mei Chang, is based on her two-month (sixty-one day) residency in Anacostia. Using traditional artists materials such as ink, paint and paper paired with more nontraditional drawing materials such as colored tape, yarn and packing wrap, Chang expands the concept of drawing from the paper’s surface to the architectural limits of the gallery. Exhibition runs August 5- Sepetember 9th 2011.

(Un)Lock It: the Percussive People in the Go-Go Pocket, a collection of photographs taken in Washington, D.C. by poet and photographer Thomas Sayers Ellis (author of The Maverick Room and Skin, Inc.), opens at The Gallery at Vivid Solutions the same evening with a reception from 6-8pm. Mr. Ellis was born and raised in Washington, D.C. and began taking his camera to area Go-Go’s while he was a percussionist in the Petworth Band in the 80s. Ellis portrays the lives of local legends like Chuck Brown and Little Benny with intimate respect and fascination. (Un)lock it: the Percussive People in the Go-Go Pocket will be open to the public from August 5th to October 7th 2011. Gallery hours are 12-5, Tuesdays through Friday and 11-5 on Saturdays.

Anacostia's New Circulator Route

2011-08-04T16:45:00.008-04:00

DCist reports that DDOT has revealed its first east of the river Circulator route, and that it's going to zip from Hillcrest through the eastern edge of Anacostia, through Barracks Row, to Potomac Avenue (Harris Teeter). This new line is scheduled to start running on October 3.

Click to Enlarge

What do you think? Is this an improvement over what we have now?

See also: DCentric's "D.C. Circulator Going East of the River in October"

Must Read: "The New Face of Anacostia"

2011-07-28T13:05:00.008-04:00

and yes, DC gov still needs to step in to save that house

By now I hope most have seen the Washington Post article that came out online yesterday afternoon as well as the shortened cover story in today's Washington Post Express. Titled "The New Face of Anacostia: Black professionals are leading a charge of gentrification across the neighborhood," the article is a refreshing look at the changes taking place here.

Of course, there is a diversity of colors and creeds moving into the neighborhood, but the article picks up on the reality that the majority of the new and upwardly mobile residents of Anacostia, to this point, are black. Does the race thing really matter? Maybe not. But it at least turns the tables on the otherwise typically very "whites movin' in = gentrification" conversation.

Nice to see this article after such an epic NPR fail earlier in the year...

Inspiration: Corner of MLK & Good Hope

2011-07-27T15:13:00.005-04:00

This is what I want to see at the newly-empty lot at the corner of MLK and Good Hope. Here are some great examples from around the country:

in Fairbanks, Alaska -- what a cool way to get community input! Photo from this great Fast Company article.

I mean, you can't go wrong. Found this while traveling through Boulder, Colorado.

This is in New Orleans, by Candy Chang, the same artist as the Alaska one. Love it.

How perfectly would this fit in Anacostia? See more details here.

What do you think? Wouldn't this be 100% perfect for the empty lot at the corner of MLK and Good Hope? Set up a couple chalkboards, paint a question or two... would probably cost about 300 bucks. Who's in?

1357 Good Hope Loses the Whitewash

2011-07-25T23:08:00.004-04:00

The story of 1357 Good Hope Road continues... not that this is really a dramatic turn. Actually, I think it looks pretty good. The owners, a tech buildout firm that was supposed to relocate to the building from Clarendon, is apparently still deciding if they'll occupy the building or if they want to try to sell it mid-renovation. Not gonna call it a restoration, as it's pretty awkward.

viewed from 14th and Good Hope looking into Historic Anacostia

my favorite side -- I love how how the building just keeps going back

the fan above the side door is the only original window remaining in the building

I mean, could the entrance be any more awkward? Nothing much to get excited about.

Crossing my fingers that someone moves into the building -- at this point I'd almost rather someone else just buy the property in the hopes that maybe they'd try to redignify it a bit.

The Future of MLK & Good Hope?

2011-07-18T14:10:00.006-04:00

Yes, please. These renderings were produced for the Department of Housing and Community Development (owners of the corner properties at the left of the images below) by UrbanAdvantage through a Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2 stimulus grant with the National Community Reinvestment Coalition and HUD.

Click images to Enlarge

Whaddya think? Is this a future you'd like to see?

Facade & Mural Coming Down at MLK/GH

2011-07-15T10:29:00.008-04:00

Well, that was quick. Due to a dangerously sagging facade, the new wood-block mural at MLK and Good Hope, along with what remained of the art deco facade of the old Peoples Drug are being torn down.

The corner in 1949:

the flourishing days of not-so-long-ago Anacostia...image from Historical Society of Washington, DC

Then in 2009:

when a truck bashed through the now-abandoned lot...

And in 2011:

see the Gateway to Ward 8 mural in the background...

And this afternoon:

notice the wood block in the crate...photo by @ruseriousingme

photo by @TheAdvoc8te

The above photos definitely show the mural being dismantled. I really hope that they take away all the debris rather than just backfill it into the hole. More updates as I get them...

Tonight - St. Elizabeths East Planning Meeting

2011-07-14T11:14:00.006-04:00

The Office of Planning and Department of Transportation are jointly sponsoring a series of public meetings for the St. Elizabeths East Campus.

This second meeting is to present a range of concepts for the East Campus roads and phase one development based on feedback from the May 2011 public meeting and the 2008 Framework Plan.

When: Tonight, July 14, 2011 from 7 - 9 p.m.

Where: Imagine Southeast Public Charter School
3100 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE

Check www.stelizabethseast.com to stay updated with all the latest.

Tonight - Artist Talk at Vivid Solutions

2011-07-14T10:52:00.005-04:00

Come on down to the Gallery at Vivid Solutions tonight from 6:30 to 8:30ish to listen to artists Ayodamola Okunseinde and Yulia Graham talk about their DOCUMENTS show. It's also Ayo's birthday, so there will be cupcakes!

About the exhibition:

DOCUMENTS: alternative guide to DC underground is a collaborative project between Ayodamola Okunseinde and Yulia Graham investigating subjects of identity through photographic and physically interactive portraits. Based on the likenesses of artists from the DC metro area, the objective of this project is to chronicle connections between artists, their environment, personalities and work through portraiture.

The pieces in DOCUMENTS range from black & white digital prints to installations where the audience in directed to play a part in the presentation of the portraits. The collective works of the project also serves as a selected educational archive of the DC underground art scene in recent years.

Cedar Hill Residential Aiming for Fall Start

2011-07-07T11:30:00.004-04:00

Didn't think I was allowed to post these renderings yet since they're not 100% final - but now that Urban Turf has, I'll go ahead and do so. As you know, Four Points and Comstock homes have partnered up to build 32 duplex-style condos, seven three-bedroom townhomes, and one re-built "historic" single family house on the big now-empty lot at the corner of W Street and 13th, just a half block up from Uniontown Bar & Grill.

view looking up W Street towards 13th Street

the interior of the block will have a bit more contemporary styling

you can see that one condo/townhouse will be located on V Street

Although these renderings aren't 100% final -- the developers hope to present to the Historic Preservation Review Board in September -- they are a pretty good representation of what will be built at the site. New multifamily residential in Anacostia ... Finally!

Denver's Big Chair

2011-07-05T16:40:00.005-04:00

Found this awesome big red chair + pinto horse in downtown Denver. How does it compare to Anacostia's own landmark chair?

Responses to Anacostia Streetcar Meeting

2011-07-01T14:12:00.003-04:00

Here are two great response articles to this week's Anacostia Streetcar meeting:

Substantive Streetcar Discussion! Is Anacostia Done Saying ‘No’?
Washington City Paper

"The District Department of Transportation has has whittled down its original ten options for the Anacostia streetcar line to a more manageable four since its last public meeting in the neighborhood—and may have tamped down some of the skepticism east of the river as well."

DDOT gets closer to an Anacostia streetcar alignment
Greater Greater Washington

"Last night's meeting was more productive than the March meeting because residents were able to talk with DDOT staff and examine the options more closely. In March, residents discussed the options in small groups, then presented to the whole room. It was a good opportunity for dialogue, but also gave some opponents an opportunity to grandstand against the project.

The next stage in the planning process is to develop a locally preferred alternative, which DDOT hopes to do by late fall. There is a "no-build" alternative which maintains existing transportation options. DDOT would then reallocate funds for the project to other areas."

As much as we're all a little worn down by the process, I'm glad to see the city give some new options -- and think that the alternative that brings the line on both MLK and Shannon will have the best impact on the neighborhood.

Important Streetcar Meeting Tonight!

2011-06-29T09:26:00.006-04:00

As you know, Anacostia was built as a streetcar suburb of DC. Bringing the streetcar back is a hugely important component to Anacostia's revitalization. Please try to attend tonight's meeting and vote for route alternatives that bring the line back to the downtown Anacostia area.

Historic allignment on MLK Ave between St. Elizabeths and Capitol Hill, via David Rumsey Map Collection

Press Release: The District Department of Transportation is seeking community input to identify route alternatives that best meet the transit needs of the community.

During this public meeting, the study team will provide updates on route alternatives that are being evaluated to create a transit connection between the Anacostia Metrorail Station and the 11th Street Bridge. Residents, members of the business community and other interested parties are encouraged to attend. Childcare will be provided for children ages five and older.

Wednesday, June 29, 7pm - 9pm
Savoy Elementary School
2400 Shannon Place, SE

For more information on the DC Streetcar project, visit DCStreetcar.com.

Big Chair Coffee Has Closed. Good News?

2011-06-28T14:58:00.017-04:00

[UPDATE: Big Chair is NOT ACTUALLY CLOSED. Sources were mistaken. However, they are still actively looking for a buyer, and this revelation does not explain why they were closed all last week...]

~~It's a bittersweet moment for Anacostia, yet one that won't inspire too many misty eyes: Big Chair Coffee has closed.~~

Never fear, it's not because Anacostians don't like coffee, it's just that we like good coffee (and cleanliness), and Big Chair's steep decline after it's major fanfare Winter 2010 opening was too much for most of its eager patrons to handle.

Rumor has it that the owners are in talks to sell the shop to someone new -- who would, I hope, take Big Chair's failings into account and make this place the neighborhood java joint everyone was hoping for from the start.

Regardless of what happens next, let this be a lesson to others that might come next: just because Anacostia is an under-served market doesn't mean that the neighborhood has lower expectations. We like nice things, too.

[See comments for ideas on why it closed / stopped being a go-to spot.]

original photo courtesy of Washington City Paper

Food News: Kabobs for Anacostia?

2011-06-23T15:18:00.007-04:00

This seems a bit random, but also goes to show that nowadays it isn't only the "expected" organizations and businesses that are beginning to move to Anacostia. Last week I got news that Rebiya Kadeer (read this great bio from the New York Times), the Uyghur activist and millionaire businesswoman who was exiled from China in 2005, purchased the long-boarded-up commercial building next door to the Honfleur Gallery.

At first, my understanding was that it would be the new DC headquarters for the World Uyghur Congress or the Uyghur American Association - but as of today I heard a different story.

According to sources who spoke with Ms. Kadeer at the site this morning, she plans to open a Uyghur restaurant - featuring the western Chinese ethnic group's famous kabobs - in the space later this year.

I'm sure more info will begin to seep out soon - but regardless of what moves in it's wonderful to see this abandoned and decrepit building go back to productive use! Crossing our fingers that kabobs are in Anacostia's future!

(I spent a semester in Beijing, and happened to live near a Uyghur-dominated commercial street so know and love the food. Great kabobs, edamame, flatbread, and potato dishes)

Potential Bright Future for the Big K Site

2011-06-17T13:07:00.006-04:00

As you know, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DCHD) bought the Big K lot (MLK and Morris Road) and adjacent abandoned properties along MLK Avenue last year. They have been working with the neighborhood to develop a development plan for the site, and we got our first peek at the site's possible future last week. See before and after images below:

DHCD will begin stabilization of the historic properties this fall. As part of a community survey that went around, most people would like to see a mix of commercial and cultural uses at the site. As it is now, it is one of the most dilapidated sites in the neighborhood, and is a terrible gateway fore anyone entering the historic district. The rendering above looks amazing!

Click Here to see DHCD's June 9 presentation on plans and survey results regarding the Big K site
Click Here to see their more general presentation on Anacostia neighborhood stabilization

What do you think? Is this spot on or what? Of course, still a lot of work to be done, and these are in no way final renderings... but major kudos to DHCD for listening to the community!

Follow @AnacostiaNow on twitter!

2011-06-16T00:27:00.012-04:00

Are you on twitter? Then make sure you start following @AnacostiaNow!

With all my other commitments around DC, I wasn't feeling like my @DG_rad handle was the best for All Anacostia, All The Time tweeting, so I created a new one for this blog and for strictly neighborhood-related tweets. I'll still be getting the word out on both, but this one is only about Anacostia, and will feature a fair number of retweets. Go ahead, make the follow.

St. Elizabeths West Campus Tour - Sign Up!

2011-06-06T11:53:00.006-04:00

A couple days ago We Love DC had a great post about the uber-popular St. Elizabeths West Campus tours put on by the DC Preservation League.

The next tour is Saturday, June 18 from 10-11am. Sign up here!

These monthly tours fill up fast, so sign up today!

Arts on the Avenue Tonight and Tomorrow

2011-06-04T19:08:00.003-04:00

This is crazy last second, but if you see this, head on down to the Blank Space for awesome slam poetry and art!

Check out www.maceopiques.com for more details. Annoyed I am just now processing that this is going on! #crazybusy

One Solid House

2011-06-01T08:13:00.003-04:00

I've always loved this house on V Street. All-brick construction - even the porch rails are brick!

Although I'm typically against window awnings, these ones have a bit of charm to them. I wonder, though, if they were removed if I'd love the house even more.

Inspiration from Memphis

2011-05-31T13:09:00.003-04:00

Check out this video and see what folks in Memphis did to perk up and draw investment to a struggling commercial district:

A New Face for an Old Broad from Josh Beckemeyer on Vimeo.

Certainly some lessons for MLK Avenue and Good Hope Road. What's stopping this from happening here?

Prime Retail Space Now Available on MLK

2011-05-26T13:07:00.008-04:00

One of the reasons MLK Avenue doesn't have a ton of retail (restaurants or otherwise) is that it hasn't had a whole lot of available retail spaces come available. A lot of the retail space is taken by office users or is unavailable/has absentee owners/not in good condition. But, over the past couple months two great - and adjacent - spaces have come available: 2019 and 2021 MLK Ave.

The building on the left is the old Anacostia Bank building, and the one on the right has been (probably should not share this if I want the space leased) a funeral home for a number of years.

the buildings now...

...and in the early 20th century (Photo: Library of Congress)

But, they are located on a great stretch of MLK, between U Street and V Street, next to The Hive, along the future Anacostia streetcar route.

The buildings themselves are pretty cool. One has an awesome fish scale transom (see above), and both kind of have that classic small town charm that makes Anacostia unique.

At just $25/square foot, these buildings would be great for anyone looking to start a new business or expand into a neighborhood that - with the success of Uniontown Bar & Grill - has proven itself able to support quality local eateries.

If interested, Click Here for the listings (scroll to see properties) or call broker Carla Merritt at 301-702-3200 x102.

MLK/Good Hope Bikeshare Moved

2011-05-22T11:35:00.008-04:00

Just an FYI, the Capital Bikeshare dock that was on the MLK side of the MLK/Good Hope intersection was moved to the Good Hope side. The dock is now in front of Industrial Bank.

the new location

If you haven't signed up for bikeshare yet, definitely do it. It is a great way to do one-way trips (for example, I metro to work but bikeshare home), and you don't have to worry about what to do with the bike when you arrive at your destination, assuming there is a dock around.

where the dock used to be, before construction on this portion of MLK

now located in front of Industrial Bank

There are also bikeshare docks at the library and the Metro station, and a new dock at MLK and W Street should be installed this summer. For my earlier post on Capital Bikeshare in Anacostia, Click Here.

St. E's East Meeting This Thursday - Go!

2011-05-11T17:53:00.000-04:00

The Office of Planning and Department of Transportation are hosting a series of public meetings for St. Elizabeths East Campus. The East Campus is the huge area on the left (if you're travelling toward Congress Heights from Anacostia on MLK) that will be completely redeveloped separate from the Homeland Security project at the West Campus. The first meeting is this Thursday:

When: May 12, 2011 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Imagine Southeast Public Charter School(Old Congress Heights School)
3100 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, SE

As is typical of public planning meetings, the agencies would like the public to provide feedback on the project, evaluate development alternatives, and transportation enhancements. Check www.stelizabethseast.com to stay updated.

11th Street Bridge Detour for Next 6 Months

2011-05-07T12:56:00.004-04:00

By now you've probably already noticed the closure of MLK Ave between the 11th Street Bridge and Good Hope Road. All this means is that you need to get off at the Anacostia Park exit and take a left on Good Hope to get back up to MLK.

This closure will be for approximate the next 6 months. All in the name of progress... right?

For more information on the 11th Street Bridges project, Click Here

Anacostia in the Express

2011-05-01T13:20:00.000-04:00

A few days overdue, but in case you missed it, Anacostia was featured in the Washington Post's Express!

The article, titles "A Growth Spurt With Plenty of Promise: New Residents Drawn to Anacostia" is mostly accurate (minus some glaring geographic errors), but painted a nice picture of the ways the neighborhood is starting to turn around. Let the good press keep on coming!

Survey: Big K Block Redevelopment

2011-04-21T14:29:00.005-04:00

Friends, neighbors, and citywide citizens: the Department of Housing and Community Development has put out a survey asking for priorities and suggestions for the redevelopment of the "Big K" site at MLK and Morris Road.

Do you want housing? Offices? Another community center? Restaurant and retail space? This survey will be used as a guide for the redevelopment that will take place over the next few years. In the housing options listed on the survey, there was no option for market rate housing, only varying levels of affordable. Remember, there is always a choice to write in an "other" suggestion.

In my opinion, this site needs be a mix of residential, cultural, commercial, and retail. The two large houses need to be retained and preserved as they are. They would be a great home for a museum, front-dining restaurants, or offices. I think additional density needs to be at the corner of the block where Big K is, but that the Big K building should be incorporated into that density.

Click Here to take the survey - it only takes a few minutes!

Old Market House Square Groundbreaking!

2011-04-12T12:39:00.015-04:00

After years of work by St. Philip Episcopal Church, TKF Foundation, members of the neighborhood, and the District (mostly DDOT), groundbreaking for the revived and re-imagined Old Market House Square is taking place this Thursday, April 14th, at 1pm! Old Market House Square is the public space on 14th Street SE between U and V Streets, and was originally built as the central square and gathering space of the neighborhood.

View Old Market House Square in a larger map

Old Market House Square was renamed John A. Logan Park in the summer of 1908 after the Civil War general that is also honored in Logan Circle. However, to avoid name confusion with Logan Circle and because the relevance of the 1908 renaming no longer really holds, the community has decided to revert to the older and more neighborly name for the space. (see below)

Washington Post, June 11, 1908, pg. 16

The space is currently just a pass-through, and an unpleasant one at that. The square will undergo a complete renovation with new lighting, walls, bench seating, paths, and plantings.

image courtesy of TKF Foundation

The park construction will also include street repaving and new crosswalks. See the detailed plan below (click to enlarge) to see how it's all going to be paid out:

drawing courtesy of DDOT

Please come out this Thursday at 1pm for the official groundbreaking. This has been a long time coming, and will be a huge boost for this very central spot in the neighborhood!

Supercool HQ Under Construction at GH/MLK

2011-04-08T13:08:00.010-04:00

I'm excited to finally give a proper construction update for Environmental Design & Construction's expanded headquarters project just below the intersection of Good Hope and MLK. A long time coming, this project (like my last post) very much represents the quality of design and construction that is (or rather, should) represent the future of this neighborhood.

the new build is taking place in the red and yellow buildings

Inside, EDC has combined two buildings into one, and have completely embraced the exposed and industrial feel while still adding modern space and flavor into the mix as well. (AKA my favorite style)

inside the lobby: the brick wall was once the exterior wall of the yellow building, which was built before the red brick one

As you can see, an original painted sign from the exterior of the old building, which was a hardware and feed store, was partially restored inside:

love the random "M" on the exposed brick

inside the president's new office ... historic Anacostia chic!

The views to the outside should give you some better context for where these buildings are. Because they are on a triangular lot, they have frontage on both MLK Avenue and Good Hope Road.

looking out onto MLK...

...and onto Good Hope

Another cool part about the interior is just how lofty and airy it is. This space was created out of two stodgy old falling apart buildings, yet EDC has created a space that feels refreshing and allows for modern use ... All while preserving the exterior and parts of the inside! (Me <--adaptive use of old buildings dork)

Want another cool feature? Voila, the green roof. The green roof covers the roof of the red brick building, while there is a reflective white roof and (soon to arrive) photovoltaic solar panels on the roof of the yellow half.

looks patchy now, but it will fill in as the rain falls and time goes by

These buildings are on the last block of Good Hope Road before you hit Anacostia Park/Poplar Point. They are adjacent the old CSX railroad line, as well as all the 11th Street Bridges construction. A lot of dirt flying now, but this will be a little jewel box of a block as it develops further.

That concludes the tour! EDC is expecting construction to be complete sometime in May or early June. The building is LEED Gold designed, and they hope to officially certify it at that or another LEED green building level after construction. Three cheers for EDC for staying in Anacostia and adding to its vibrancy and revitalization!

Beautiful Restoration on Chester Street!

2011-04-04T16:41:00.014-04:00

Here's your Monday afternoon pick-me-up (not that you needed it in this weather!). I happened to make my way down Chester Street SE a few hours ago and was pleasantly SHOCKED to see this house has undergone a major restoration in a matter of weeks.

my love for working shutters cannot be denied

The house was a very typical house flip: builder's grade finishes, no embellishments, non-conforming Craftsman-style door, boring windows, etc. The flipper had made no efforts on the exterior other than the very least that was required:

Before: nothing heinously horrible, just generally pretty blah

Enter the homeowner, who loves the neighborhood and even reached out to me a few months ago saying he wanted to do some improvements to bring back some of the historic feel to his home. Since it had just been redone hardly two years ago, I was expecting some new windows and a new door - maybe a transom window. But wow was I under-expecting!

I mean, check out the paint colors! And the porch details! Cheers to awesome neighbors, revived homes, and people bringing back boring houseflips!! This is the future of Anacostia.

W Street Project Named "Cedar Hill"

2011-03-28T11:00:00.000-04:00

Well, things are finally becoming more official at the corner of W and 13th Streets SE. The developer's sign heralding their long-awaited townhouse and condo development is finally up, and the official name for the project: Cedar Hill.

The development is being built by Comstock Homes in some sort of partnership with Four Points. Four Points is also the development partner for Curtis Companies, who owns a majority of "downtown Anacostia" along MLK Avenue.

looking NW at the 13th and W intersection

looking NE up W towards 13th Street

The development's name, Cedar Hill, is the name of Frederick Douglass' hilltop estate just one block away at W and 14th. Although it seems a but odd for the name to be the exact same, I don't really foresee any major problems. These townhouses and condos will integrate with the neighborhood rather than being any sort of private enclave, so I can't imagine the name even sticking once all the units are marketed and sold.

Yes friends, brand new townhomes and condos for sale in the $200s. And on the same block as Uniontown and Big Chair Coffee. I don't think these will have much trouble selling.

Metrobus A-Line Survey

2011-03-27T13:33:00.009-04:00

WMATA is studying their A bus lines that wind through Anacostia and Congress Heights, and have produced a survey asking riders questions like which lines they use, where they typically board, and what times they use the lines.

Click to Enlarge
The A Line routes have a combined weekday ridership of about 15,000 passengers, which is one of the highest riderships in the Metrobus system. The goal of the study and survey is to make improvements to the lines and make the bus riding experience more convenient and efficient for riders.

Click Here and scroll down to participate in the online survey

>> Also, don't forget the Transit Happy Hour on Monday evening from 6-8PM at Uniontown Bar & Grill <<

Streetcar Meeting + Transit Happy Hour

2011-03-24T14:08:00.006-04:00

In the next week there are two Anacostia streetcar-related events that you should definitely attend. The first is hosted by the Federal Transit Administration and the District Department of Transportation, and is related to the Phase 2 Environmental Assessment and Historic Preservation Study for the Anacostia line. From the www.DCStreetcar.com website:

The study is anticipated to be completed by September 2011 and is intended to identify the best alternatives that address the project’s purpose and need, maximize environmental benefits, and minimize the potential for adverse impacts. In addition, DDOT will evaluate potential effects to cultural resources in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

These meetings are a great way to voice support and ask questions. Citizen participation makes a huge difference.

What: Public Meeting for Anacostia Streetcar Phase 2 Environmental Assessment & Historic Preservation Study

When: Saturday, March 26, 10AM-12PM

Where: Matthews Memorial Church, 2616 MLK Ave SE

The second event is a happy hour at Uniontown Bar & Grill sponsored by the DC chapter of the Sierra Club. The happy hour is a way to informally discuss ways to improve transportation in the District.

What: Transit Happy Hour

When: Monday, March 28, 6-8PM

Where: Uniontown Bar & Grill, 2200 MLK Ave SE

I hope to see you all at one or both of these events. The streetcar is a project that will have a major impact on the future of the neighborhood, and the city needs to hear your voices!

reminder: Anacostia had streetcars before

2011-03-24T14:01:00.010-04:00

There's been a lot of discussion around Anacostia lately about the benefit of streetcars in the neighborhood. Many are excited about them, many aren't. Some are excited about the convenience and connectivity they'll bring, others are afraid of the impact on parking. I for one think it's kind of ridiculous that this project wouldn't happen, when it was promised back in 2007 (and years before) when I first purchased in the neighborhood. It's a big deal to backtrack on a project of this magnitude.

That said, I wanted to remind the readership that Anacostia had streetcars before. This is not a new concept. And not only did Anacostia have them, but the tracks webbed across the city to form a network that made Anacostia more connected with the city it's a part of.

streetcar down MLK, across the bridge, to Navy Yard ... yeah they had that in the 1800s

As you can see from the images in this post, Washington DC was better served by streetcar in 1891 than it is in 2011. In the meantime, society got excited about cars, tire companies bought out streetcar companies, buses emerged, and we kinda forgot about a transit option that now many other cities across the country and world are getting really excited about and is leading to billions of dollars in economic development.

Streetcars are going to change things. They will take getting used to. But they are a sustainable, convenient, and development-inspiring mode of transportation that will change this neighborhood for the better. Now is the time to support and embrace.

map images courtesy of the Library of Congress

where the shotgun once stood

2011-03-23T11:57:00.003-04:00

Shotgun houses are an endangered species. In Anacostia, there exists only one true shotgun that I can think of, and it's just outside the historic district (and if we're being technical, in the Fairlawn neighborhood) on 17th Street SE near Good Hope Road. Shotgun houses are deep one-story homes that are typically very humble structures and are scattered across much of the American South.

the shotgun on 17th Street SE

On the blog Victorian Secrets, the author gives one explanation for the origin of the style:

It is often said that these houses acquired their name because, if all the doors were open, a shotgun could be fired from front porch to backyard without hitting anything. But even this near-cliche is disputed for reasons beyond the tendency of shotgun pellets to scatter widely.

Since the early 1990s, a widely-accepted theory is that the shotgun house design originated among plantation slaves in the Carribean, and was carried to New Orleans and disseminated throughout the south by slaves and free African-Americans. It has been claimed that the "shotgun" name is a corruption of several Yoruba words related to the concept of "house".

An irony is that exterminating shotgun houses was once a progressive goal. Well into the 1970s, shotgun houses were viewed as inherently-substandard, a symbol of poverty like the unpaved streets and outdoor plumbing that characterized the neighborhoods where they stood. Urban renewal relentlessly demolished them by the block.

Regardless, they are a form that should not be forgotten. Sadly, Anacostia lost a shotgun house at 1314 V Street SE in 2002, when the owner demolished it without permission.

bad condition ≠ reason to demolish

the area is now used as a parking lot for the church across the street

Here's some more history of DC's shotguns:

Washington has been a southern-style city for most of its existence, so it might be expected to have a great many shotgun houses. However, this does not appear to be the case. Perhaps the most likely place to find shotguns would have been among the notorious alley dwellings that were demolished in the 1930s and '40s. However, in photos most of these appear to have been very plain two story brick and wooden structures which allowed more density than single story houses. Perhaps the best DC neighborhood for finding shotgun houses is Deanwood, where there is a sprinkling on the sidestreets between Nannie Helen Burroughs Avenue and Sherriff Road NE.

Although shotgun houses are most often associated with poor African-American neighborhoods, each of the pictured houses appear to have had early inhabitants who were white. 1314 V Street SE is another tradesman's home in a formerly segregated white neighborhood. It has many signature shotgun house touches, including a tin gabled roof and full-width front porch, which in this case has a flat, steeply-sloping roof. Some catalogers claim that because shotgun houses are meant to be packed cheek-by-jowl on narrow urban lots, pure examples should lack side windows, as 314 V does.

Every time I learn of a demolition I am more encouraged to continue acting to protect what's still here. This isn't rich people history - but it's a history that's incredibly important and needs protection.

Tonight: Public Housing at Fendall & V

2011-03-22T13:13:00.003-04:00

ANC Commissioners Charles Wilson and Greta Fuller are hosting a meeting tonight to discuss the Department of Human Services' plans for subsidized/homeless housing at Fendall and V Streets.

When: Tuesday March 22, 7-8PM
Where: Anacostia UPO Center, 1649 Good Hope Road SE

Concerned that this type of housing is being funneled into the Historic Anacostia neighborhood? Want to hear DC's plans and give input? Go to the meeting!

Maple View Deli Closed?

2011-03-20T14:05:00.009-04:00

From the looks of it, Maple View Deli (corner of MLK, Maple View, and Pleasant Street) has closed up shop. One can hope that maybe it will open its doors again, but they've been closed for a couple weeks now, with rumors swirling that it is permanent.

As we all know, it wasn't the most attractive or inviting carry-out in the world, but the owner and employees were very kind and the food was good. What's too bad is that I have been working with Maple View for the past few months on applying for facade grant money and getting designs to retrofit the non-so-welcoming building into a fun and inviting one. I even applied for an Awesome Foundation grant to help revive the interior because I really loved the spirit of the place. See below for the exterior plans:

rendering courtesy of DC Historic Designs

Again, maybe this is just a temporary thing, but it looks like Maple View Deli is closed for business. I wonder if this means the owners of this block (own Maple View and the two unpleasant apartment buildings behind it), will do something drastic and awesome with their land...

Good Hope, Good News

2011-03-16T14:28:00.009-04:00

La Threadz, Anacostia's only boutique clothing store, is moving into new digs just across from their current space at 1345 Good Hope Road. This is a good thing.

the new La Threadz space is the one-story red/orange building

The new space is just to the right of American Shottas, the neighborhood music shop that has a huge selection of local stuff. No word on what will happen with La Threadz' existing space, below.

this building always had a weird McDonalds vibe to me

The owner told me that the new building has a better layout than their current space, and that they will be moving their existing signage across the street.

I do love this little stretch of Good Hope...

As you can see from the above photo taken this past fall, the building is literally across the street. The new space used to house a church, and as you can see, used to be a natural brown brick.

The official move is slated to take place in the next one or two months.

Good Hope, Bad News

2011-03-16T13:41:00.007-04:00

Oh 1357 Good Hope Road, how you tease us. First we were worried that you'd be demolished. Then we were excited when you were finally purchased. Now we see that you are back up for sale.

storefront was given a hackjob renovation

Turns out that CG Alliance, the Clarendon-based company who purchased the building last year and began renovations to make it their headquarters, lost a major contract and no longer needs / can afford to keep the building.

the back building could be a really awesome space

As you can see, they had begun renovations. Although they were not the most spectacular of renovations, I was encouraged that the building was staying and that the building would no longer be vacant.

see where they filled in some of the windows in back

The building has new windows, a new high-security fence, and a very odd-looking entrance treatment. Fortunately, the building at the rear of the property was not altered. As one of, if not the oldest existing commercial building on Good Hope, this building deserves a full restoration and an owner that wants this to be a jewel.

But, we're back to square one. Will the building be demolished by a new owner? Should the neighborhood rise up to nominate it for Historic Landmark status (if you're interested, let me know, most of the legwork has already been done) or absorb it into the Anacostia Historic District? What would you like to see at this prominent corner?

The properties, technically 1351-1357 Good Hope Road SE, are listed for sale as a bundle for $975,000. Click Here for the listing.

Subsidized Housing at V and Fendall?

2011-03-15T11:53:00.009-04:00

A conversation has been growing on the Historic Anacostia Google Group about the buildings being renovated at V and Fendall Streets.

The buildings are owned and under development by Pounds Properties, the development company of former Redskin Darryl Pounds.

According to Mr. Pounds, when construction is complete the buildings will be sold to the city and the units will become housing for single mothers.

I'm glad that Pounds is finally finishing work on these properties, which have sat abandoned for as long as I've been around the neighborhood. What do you think?

New Unity Health Building on Galen Street

2011-03-11T10:04:00.008-05:00

Wondering what that huge dirtscape is on Galen Street between 16th Street and the Frederick Douglass estate? Unity Health Care is finally fully under construction on their new health center.

As you can see, the site is quite large and will certainly add new activity to this corner of the neighborhood. The new center will be replacing the health "shack" at the corner of W and Chester Streets SE.

One of the remarkable things about this project is its proximity to the Frederick Douglass estate, which you can see in the background of the above photo. I hope that there will be major landscape screening between the two sites to that the juxtaposition isn't so jarring.

What do you think of the design? It's not in the historic district, so it did not have to follow any design standards. Remember that an abandoned apartment building used to grace this plot of land.

From Galen Street, the above view toward 16th Street is of a large portion of the neighborhood that is outside of the historic district.

I'm glad to see the health center move from its present location, but definitely have concerns about its location adjacent Cedar Hill. Do you think this is "the next Salvation Army", or will this be a net positive addition to the community?

React Radio Moving to 1918 MLK

2011-03-09T16:16:00.006-05:00

A new radio station is launching in DC, and they've chosen Anacostia for their headquarters. React Radio (WPWC 1480AM) will be a DC-based, globally-minded progressive music and talk radio station, and will be broadcasting from the former Mama Cole's space at 1918 MLK Avenue.

will be interested to see how the exterior and signage changes

The station's content is "designed to provoke thought and action and serve as an alternative to commercial radio." Their missions is to provide "a media platform to empower, engage, entertain and educate people."

renovations are fully underway on the interior

Cheers to a new addition to the neighborhood, and to the only station broadcasting east of the Anacostia River!

Although their website is not yet operational, you can follow progress at their blog: www.fullyoperationaldeathstar.blogspot.com

Artist Interview: Ben Skinner and the Jealous Curator

2011-03-03T12:26:00.020-05:00

"Try A Little Tenderness, As Painful As It Seems", presented by The Jealous Curator, is a must-see show by artist Ben Skinner that opens at Honfleur Gallery on Friday, March 4, at 7PM. Drinks and refreshments will be served. 1241 Good Hope Road SE.

Below is an interview I did with Vancouver-based artist Ben Skinner and The Jealous Curator. Skinner, 33, grew up in small-town Petrolia, Ontario, went to school in Nova Scotia and Chicago, and is known for his clean, text-based mixed-media works that are site specific - which in this case means that he created most of the pieces for this show as a direct response to the Anacostia neighborhood and his perception of its current influences and evolutions.

Skinner's show is curated by The Jealous Curator, a blogger-turned-tangible-world-curator (this is her first off-line show). An artist herself, she always felt stunted by the feeling that others were coming up with more innovative work than she was - so The Jealous Curator began a daily blog two years ago that profiles artists across the world whose work she is jealous of.

Spunky, intellectually curious, and highly skilled, Ben Skinner (BS) and The Jealous Curator (JC) have created a must-see show at Honfleur and along the neighborhood's main streets that will be talked about for a very long time.

* * *

Where should art be seen?

BS: I think what's great about Honfleur Gallery is that they have a balance of local artists and artists from other areas. If you just did one or the other, things might get a little stagnant. I think its great to show people in this community what's outside and in other areas – but its also good for people in community to be proud of who's here and what is here that can be celebrated and discussed.

JC: Art can be very untouchable in a way – especially as a kid – my parents took me to the Vancouver art gallery as a kid and I felt “I could never be in here." For the youth, having spaces locally shows them "you know, I could do this." It's accessible.

BS: I think galleries are an important part of the community – to be able to step into a space that is outside of the advertising / commodity world where all the text you read has some kind of ulterior motive other than to just make you think.

I would like to see more art seen in public space. I think galleries are great, and great for supporting artists. One downside to galleries, though, is that that they are limiting in that there is a certain type of person who will enter a gallery. Maybe someone doesn’t understand art or doesn’t think it is for them or about them. A gallery is usually a quiet, empty space where people can sometimes feel uncomfortable. I really think public mural pieces are important, and public things like the Big Chair...

...which was built as an advertisement...

BS: ...but is now a landmark. That’s one of the reason I love public art so much - it creates landmarks that people can use to map out the city. So much of corporate looking public art looks like “art by committee” and seems to be chosen for its safeness. The ones I see too much of are like a big abstract modernist blob of steel on a street corner.

You attended art undergrad and went to grad school at the Art Institue of Chicago. Do you think that your education had an influence on the style of expression and the diversity of media you work with today?

BS: When I went to grad school there was a shift in the way I worked. I was more interested in doing socially conscious works and public work. In the art world they use a term called public intervention for pieces like that where you’ve put something out there for the public without going through the proper channels. It often means it’s a temporary or guerrilla style piece. I love the action of that and the reclaiming of public space to the larger public than just the people who come into a gallery.

So then does graffiti also fit into that category? It almost sounds like a glorification of vandalistic art. Where does one draw the line?

BS: I was never interested in the aesthetic of graffiti because it speaks to a smaller audience – really just the community of graffiti artists, where others mostly see it as vandalism and urban decay. I think that the vinyl lettering I do is a way to, in a very clean and professional looking way, communicate something different.

BS: I’m also conscious about the types of buildings I'm putting them on. I'm putting them on abandoned and vacant storefronts – and it gives a poetic voice to a space that people aren’t really caring about right now – it's not in anyone's way.

JC: What I love about them is that it puts such a human voice on these public places – there was one in Chicago on an abandoned jewelry store that said “I fell in love here once”. It adds a human history to forlorn spaces.

BS: Downtown Chicago had a very anti-graffiti stance where you would be fined for having cans of spray paint on you – I never associated myself with the graffiti kids, but I saw where they came from by being shat upon by city officials and having works buffed out overnight. Mine lasted longer because it is almost camouflaged as signage. It didn’t look like graffiti because it was in Helvetica.

What are your preferred mediums and why?

BS: I don’t really have preferred mediums. I think what I like to do is experiment with materials – keeping it in flux all the time. I don’t want to get locked into being a “painter” or a “sculptor”. But, the use of text has been within a lot of my work for many years. I love working with words and how they are interpreted to have different meanings.

BS: I don’t do the super realistic stuff all that often. For me, the concept needs to be strong or it just looks like illustration. I want for the idea to stand out as strongly as the technical skill.

Have you had to take on more conventional jobs to pay the bills, and if so how have they influenced your art?

BS: Out of art school I started doing window displays for Urban Outfitters. I got to hone some technical construction skills that I didn’t have experience with in art school, and got to learn by basically teaching myself. From there I ended up working for a Canadian women's retailer called Aritzia – so now I am currently their visual display developer. I work out of their head office and they have about 47 stores – which translates to about 100 windows. I come up with the concept for those and design and produce them. That has been the best job in the world for me because I can experiment with all sorts of techniques, materials, and processes that I wouldn’t be able to afford if I was doing it myself.

BS: I've been able to refine a sense of finish and detail that’s important in the display industry, and is more and more important in my art because I can't live with a piece of fishing line hanging loose or a scuff somewhere – it has to be as perfect as possible.

JC: You're not a flaky artist at all – you know how long things are going to take to build because you actually build things. He does this every day at work, so he can figure out a way to get his site-specific art pieces done on time.

Do you feel that the media that you work with should represent our present day?

BS: I don’t think that it has to at all – otherwise there would only be new media internet art, you know? Everything would be social media art projects. I think that having variety is the best approach.

JC: It makes a richer art environment. Painting can be so traditional – but it's the things that people are doing with it. Mixed media can be so creative – I think that that’s why I love Ben's work.

How have your expectations or interests changes over the years?

BS: I'm more conscious of the context in which my artwork is shown and the community that is seeing it. Knowing that I had a show in this neighborhood wasn’t just an opportunity to show a bunch of painting that I've already done.

JC: Stuff that is relevant to the neighbor’s experience and life.

BS: I strive to do work that is site specific. Its not that the text will specifically have to do with Vancouver or something...

JC: ..but that there’s not a disconnect. There are other neighborhoods that are going through similar evolutions, but if the show were to go someplace else, he'd have to make other specific pieces.

BS: Sometimes I think of something and think “oh that would be a really clever piece”, but other times it has to be relevant to a specific place.

Do you see yourself as a political artist?

BS: I'm a part-time political artist.

JC: It's political in that you’ve thought about the issues and you want to talk about them.

BS: Politics is a slippery word and I don’t really know what it means anymore. I'm actually not that interested in politics as a governmental system. I'm interested in it in the way that it affects people's lives at the grassroots level, and how it affects individuals and communities - but I know the two can't be completely separated. I'm not a political activist, but I feel like the work I do for my audience is a small way that I can make a kind of change.

Why should someone come see your show?

BS: I think they should know that the art was made with them, the neighborhood, and the city in mind - conscious of the changes it is going through. I’d like for people to be able to see the pieces and think about them in that context.

* * *

Skinner's show is opening the same night as a show at The Gallery at Vivid Solutions (2208 MLK Ave SE): Cartograph - works in mixed-media collage by Gérard Lange, which opens at 6PM. Please come out for the shows, walk MLK and Good Hope to see the guerrilla art, and stop in at Uniontown or Big Chair for a drink. Hot.

What's the Story, Maple View Glory?

2011-02-24T11:17:00.012-05:00

The grand manse at 1220 Maple View Place SE is one of the worst vacant/blighted property offenders in the neighborhood.

the house is literally a big ol' Do Not Enter for the neighborhood

Look past the boarded-up windows, the flaking paint, and the general sense of pure abandonment, it's a completely beautiful house that deserves so much more. Located at the corner of Maple View and Mount View, the house will eventually succumb to the elements if something isn't done to save it.

check out the awesome detail work

The house, built sometime between 1880 and 1905, is a great example of the Queen Ann Victorian architecture found mostly in the south end of the neighborhood (Maple View Place, Mount View Place, and High Street, with a few exceptions): protruding bays, curved windows, both shingle and clapboard siding, and grand porches.

its location on the corner makes its abandonment all the more obvious

So what gives? Why is the owner (New Rhode Island LLC), who currently owes $98,100.93 in back taxes on the house, letting the property just fall apart? And why isn't the city stepping in to do something about it? The owner's address on Rhode Island Avenue NE is currently a print shop with no knowledge of the house, but I was told that mail still comes there for the LLC and is never picked up.

check out the (potentially) awesome sleeping porch on the second floor

The house is consistently listed in the city's tax sales, and nobody has paid taxes since the 2007 tax year. At what point does the city just take the property and give it to someone who will fix it up? Come on now.

Update: I've dug a little deeper and discovered that the agent for the LLC is listed as Daryl Dudley of NE DC. From a quick google search, it looks like he is part of a real estate management company called Dudley Pro Realty on Rhode Island Avenue. After speaking with a co-owner Cornelius Dudley, it sounds like they are not making any efforts to rectify the situation.

Click Here for a Washington City Paper article on the owner

New House on W Street

2011-02-18T13:35:00.010-05:00

Another new house is sprouting up on the 1500 block of W Street, just a half block up from the Frederick Douglass estate. This house also went through the Historic Anacostia Design Review Committee, so it'll be interesting to see how the exterior finishes turn out.

We (back when I was still living in the neighborhood and co-chair of the committee) suggested that the builder - who also built the new white houses on 14th Street last summer - add more windows the the back of the house, but that didn't happen.

Also, the house extends to the property line on both sides, which is why there are no windows there.

It's a unique block, because only one side of the street (the side the house is on) is within the historic district. Just across the street are some pretty bombed out looking apartments and a vinyl behemoth at one end. And hey, it's just about three blocks up from Uniontown Bar & Grill!

Anacostia, in my experience.

2011-02-16T02:43:00.010-05:00

My reaction to NPR's Morning Edition story yesterday. The segment, titled "D.C., Long 'Chocolate City,' Becoming More Vanilla", was written by Alex Kellogg, and is available in audio and article version by clicking the linked text.

Mr. Kellogg’s story was a dishonest portrayal of the changes that are happening in Anacostia. First, his evidence that black people are being forced out is based entirely on the story of one man who chose to buy a larger and more expensive house in PG County than one he was considering near Anacostia. Second, he attempts to prove that Anacostia is becoming “more vanilla” by talking about one white person, me – and I don’t even live there anymore. On a personal note, I was disappointed that he chose to sensationalize my move out of Anacostia, which had absolutely nothing to do with the much-reported-on break-in that occurred at my 2009 holiday party – in fact, I moved eight months later, was very transparent about my reasons for doing so, and am still working (and hosting parties) in the Anacostia neighborhood.

If Mr. Kellogg were interested in writing honestly about what’s going on in Anacostia, I’d suggest he step back from the canned story that’s been told before about every other neighborhood, look around, and realize a few key points he missed the first time: Anacostia, and the River East community in general, is becoming more and more economically diverse, but mostly at the hands and monthly mortgage payments of black professionals, not white ones. Check out the Historic Anacostia Block Association or River East Emerging Leaders, and you will see a very impressive mix of people, the majority of whom are black. Patronize Anacostia’s newest businesses, Big Chair Coffee and Uniontown Bar & Grill and you will meet the friendly (and black) owners. Take in a meeting of the Friends of Logan Park/Old Market House Square, a group run out of St. Philip the Evangelist Episcopal Church that is working to rebuild the park at the heart of Historic Anacostia – something that will surely add to the look and feel of the neighborhood and make it more attractive – and you’ll find that most of the members involved in this effort, although quite age diverse, are black. But hold on. Pause. Are we really still getting worked up about skin color?

White people are moving into Anacostia. So are black people. So are Asian people, Middle Eastern people, gay people, straight people, and every other mix. And good for them for believing in a neighborhood in spite of its challenges, and for meeting its hurdles head on and its new amenities with a sense of excitement. And good for the countless residents who have stayed in the neighborhood through its worst times, many of whom are glad to see signs of progress. A few months after I moved into Anacostia, my next-door neighbor – an amazing woman who raised her family in the house adjoining mine, and for years dealt with heavy drug activity and physical neglect next door – told me “you know, this is the first summer in a long time that I’ve felt comfortable sitting on my front porch.” If that’s the kind of change that’s coming to Anacostia, then amen and hallelujah.

for more, read WAMU 88.5's blog DCentric: And Now, Another View of Anacostia, from David Garber, Greater Greater Washington's GGW discusses: Gentrification in Anacostia, part 1, and We Love DC's NPR’s take on Anacostia: Whitey Is Coming

Anacostia on NPR's Morning Edition - Update

2011-02-14T16:49:00.018-05:00

Set your radio dials to NPR's Morning Edition (88.5 in DC) tomorrow morning at 6:20AM and 8:20AM to hear a segment about population shifts in DC, with a special focus on the Anacostia neighborhood. I was interviewed along with Charles Wilson, Natasha Dasher from Uniontown, Stan Voudrie of Four Points development, and others.

I hope the story accurately depicts some of the changes taking place, but also get the feeling it might skew towards "black people are being forced into PG County" ... to which I usually reply, in general terms: 1) Most of the people moving to Anacostia are black. 2) If you can afford to buy in PG, you can afford to buy in Anacostia. Sure, there are trade-offs, but give me a break.

Update, with links: I see that the reporter insisted I "left the neighborhood after a 2009 incident where 15 friends were robbed at gunpoint" -- so not true (I left eight months after the incident for much less exciting reasons), and a fact that I clarified for him multiple times.

Click Here to read the written aricle or listen to the story

Uniontown Glows in the Washington Post

2011-02-13T09:06:00.012-05:00

The front page of the Metro section in today's Washington Post is a keeper. The headline, "Every neighborhood needs a 'Cheers' and maybe this can be ours", speaks to the hope and excitement surrounding the new restaurant and bar - the first of its kind in Historic Anacostia, and one of a growing stream of businesses catering to the winds of change blowing east of the river.

One of the great things about diversifying the business offerings in the neighborhood is that residents don't have to cross the river for every amenity.

"Uniontown has brought people out that many of us didn't even know lived in this neighborhood," said Greta Fuller, an Anacostia Advisory Neighborhood Commission member. "And those people are hungry to come out and spend their money. We have jobs. We have homes. We are positive. And when you walk into Uniontown, those are the people you see."

For the neighborhood to be truly sustainable, vacant storefronts need filled, residents need places to congregate, and there have to be reasons to stay or visit. For Anacostia, Uniontown is a big step in that direction.

Sure, Uniontown is still working out kinks, and being one of the only places like it in the neighborhood, the lunchtime rush can get a little crazy. Big Chair Coffee - which now also serves alcoholic drinks - certainly has competition. But in this case, competition is a good thing, and I think Uniontown is a great pioneer for the kinds of businesses this neighborhood can expect to see more of.

Uniontown Bar & Grill is located at 2200 MLK Avenue, at the corner of W and MLK SE, about a 5 minute walk from the Anacostia Metro

Capital Bikeshare in Anacostia

2011-02-06T12:01:00.002-05:00

DC's newest form of public transportation, Capital Bikeshare, opened in September of last year and has been picking up speed as a truly hot new option for getting around. Year-long memberships are just $75, and but there are also month and day memberships available.

As long as there are convenient stations, Bikeshare is a great way to get from point A to point B, especially on one-way trips, without having to deal with bike storage.

There are three Capital Bikeshare stations in Anacostia:

at the corner of MLK and Good Hope...

across from the Anacostia Metro on Howard Road...

and at the Anacostia Neighborhood Library

View Larger Map

I think the current station locations are a good start - but also think that it would be helpful to have one at the corner of MLK and W Street. What do you think? Any other suggested stops? What are your thoughts about this new transportation option?

Good Reads: Why is Capital Bikeshare usage low east of the river? on Greater Greater Washington, and Biking While Black in the Washington City Paper

Super Bowl @ Big Chair & Uniontown

2011-02-05T14:14:00.001-05:00

Just a heads up, both Uniontown and Big Chair will be showing the Super Bowl this Sunday. Big Chair is now set up to serve alcohol, so let the business competition (this is a good thing) and the games begin!

look what's being tweeted about the neighborhood

2011-01-31T16:45:00.003-05:00

I present to you the last four tweets about Anacostia:

Uniontown Bar & Grill Opens TODAY

2011-01-31T10:04:00.004-05:00

Today's a big day for Anacostia. Opening day of its first sit-down restaurant and alcohol-serving bar: Uniontown Bar & Grill. Stop on by to 2200 MLK Ave SE for lunch, dinner, happy hour, or a nightcap -- the option is now here!

Official opening is at 11AM for lunch. Regular hours are 11AM-9PM Sunday through Thursday; 11AM-2AM Friday and Saturday; Happy Hour is from 4PM-7PM Monday through Friday.

Contact information for Uniontown:
Website: www.UtownDC.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/UniontownBar
Phone: 202-445-4021

Sheridan Station Taking Shape

2011-01-21T14:40:00.012-05:00

Have you noticed the massive dirt hill / construction site just past the Anacostia Metro station along Sheridan Road? Once home to failed housing projects, the site is fast transforming into Sheridan Station: an assortment of brand new, mixed-income apartments and townhouses - with some offices space as well. In total, there will be 344 new housing units.

the utility lines are conveniently not shown in the rendering below

there will be office space on the ground floor (dentist offices, etc)

Adjacent the multi-family rental shown above will be the townhouses, 165 of which will be for-sale units.

Sheridan Station is the first of two major HOPE VI "housing projects to mixed-income neighborhoods" programs in the vicinity of Anacostia. The other, Barry Farm/Park Chester, has not yet begun demolition and construction.

Click Here for a map of the Sheridan Station project in Google Maps for better context

Streetcar Survey + Happy Hour

2011-01-18T14:36:00.000-05:00

In case you missed last week's meeting, there is an online survey to give input on the next phase of the Anacostia streetcar line. One of the reasons I first invested in Anacostia was because I was excited about positive changes like the streetcar - and I'm pretty sure I'm not alone. Let's support this improvement and help it get here ASAP!

Click Here to go to DDOT's survey

Also, check out Greater Greater Washington's ideas for running the line down MLK Avenue. Why have the line if it isn't conveniently located?

** Update 1/21/11 **

On Thursday, January 27 at 6PM, the DC chapter of the Sierra Club will hold a happy hour for streetcar supporters to celebrate recent victories and to discuss what next steps should be taken in their campaign to make streetcars a viable transportation option for as many residents of the DC metro area as possible. The happy hour will take place at SOVA, which is located along the route of the proposed H Street / Benning Road NE line. To learn more about DC's streetcar initiative, visit www.streetcars4dc.org

Restoration on 1600 Bl. U Street

2011-01-14T12:17:00.009-05:00

There's a new restoration taking place on the 1600 block of U Street SE - and it looks like it's gonna be great. (How do I know? Because it looks nasty now, and because the same folks just did one a few houses down)

a very typical "Anacostia look" house - awesome potential

the fake brick asphalt shingle siding has been mostly removed

looks like the porch floor needs a complete rebuild, but glad to see original columns and decorative elements in place

This is the house on the same block that the same builder just completed and sold. Looks great from the outside, and original wood siding was restored!

It makes such a big difference in the neighborhood when people actually care what the end product looks like ... the city and its future are very thankful.

Anacostia Streetcar Meeting Tonight!

2011-01-12T16:33:00.009-05:00

Late notice, I know, but there is a kick-off meeting for the environmental and historic preservation impacts of Phase 2 of the Anacostia Streetcar tonight from 6:30-8:30 at Savoy Elementary. Phase 2 is the section that will bring tracks from the Anacostia Metro, down MLK Ave, to the 11th Street Bridge. In other words, this is the section that really affects the Anacostia neighborhood!

View New Anacostia Streetcar plan in a larger map

The sections in green and blue above is the line that this meeting is about. It would be great to have a good showing at the meeting from neighborhood folks.

map courtesy of Greater Greater Washington

New Supermarket - Survey!

2011-01-10T14:43:00.007-05:00

The Anacostia Warehouse Supermarket has been purchased by the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation and will be undergoing a major renovation, re-concepting, and new management-ing. Exciting! But they need your help in determining what exactly the new concept will offer. More organic? More fresh foods? More attractive exterior?

Click Here to fill out the survey (it's fast, it's easy, and it will benefit everyone!) ...and please call for them to do something about unattractiveness of the building. Kind of an eyesore right now...

Anacostia on HGTV Tomorrow

2011-01-08T17:03:00.004-05:00

Set your DVRs for tomorrow's episode of HGTV's "My First Sale", which features Historic Anacostia (and me and the house I just sold...).

Click to Enlarge

I believe the episode will be available online later on as well. Click Here for the description of the episode and to find local TV station listings.

Wednesday 1/5 - Blank Space Open House

2011-01-04T16:28:00.004-05:00

Blank Space, the new "permanent pop-up" space in Historic Anacostia is having an open house tomorrow from 11am-7pm.

Blank Space SE welcomes all professional, experimental, visionary, original artists and organizations to use the space as their own temporary creative home, as it is meant to be the ideal rental venue for all forms of creative projects and outlets.

Blank Space SE, located at 1922 MLK Ave SE, is available for many different projects, including (but not limited to): the production of your own art exhibit, a dance or theatre event, a workshop or classroom, a short term studio, a think tank, a creative crucible, a pop up boutique, or business.

Check out the Blank Space website: www.BlankSpaceSE.com

Sounds awesome, right? Love that there are creative forces at work in the 'costia.

Scare Tactics, Part 2

2011-01-04T13:00:00.005-05:00

In Part 2 of this series, I'm posting another email I received about tactics that are being used to scare certain people away from the Anacostia neighborhood (and I'm sure other neighborhoods across the city).

This email comes from a resident who has witnessed an increase in negative and racial comments since posters appeared across the neighborhood advertising an effort to "Keep DC A Chocolate City":

Keep DC a Chocolate City - Stop the War On the Black Community! Gentrification and home foreclosures are just a few of the tools used to remove black people from their homes and move whites into the community.

This was the message on the intense yellow posters that were attached to every telephone pole along MLK Avenue as I walked from the Anacostia Metro to my home after work a few weeks ago. The posters brought on a feeling of confusion. Had I misinterpreted the views of my neighbors towards me these past two years? I tried to shake off the feeling of judgment that crept into me as I walked past the Thurgood Marshall Academy. The after school groups of kids were hanging out as per usual, except that day someone mumbled “better get on home whitey” and another of “get off our street”.

I chose to live in Anacostia for the same reasons that my non–white neighbors have in the past couple of years: affordability, short commute to work, the views of the city, and the friendliness of the people that live here. People say hello to each other here, we greet each other, we still take time to really talk with our neighbors. Maybe I have taken these posters too personally, but in a city that just elected Vincent Gray as Mayor with a mission statement of “One City”, I am dismayed and angered by these blatant words of racism plastered in my neighborhood. I like to think that all of the many varieties of chocolate can be equal, including white.

These signs and efforts come across as a desperate way to preserve some artificial sense of uniformity. Is this just a mirror of the integration fears many predominantly white communities held in 20th century?

Scare Tactics, Part 1

2010-12-21T11:22:00.009-05:00

A young woman reached out to me a couple months ago about her interest in moving to Anacostia. I get these emails frequently, and try to be as honest as I can about the neighborhood, its potential, and why I think it's a good investment. This particular person ended up buying a house and is getting really excited about moving in.

However, the usually-untold story in cases like hers (and mine, and probably many of you who have recently moved to Anacostia or neighborhoods like it), is that her friends have now taken it upon themselves to convince her to back out of the deal. Here's one email, from a DC cop friend of hers:

[Please read with a Huge grain of salt, as clearly this person is more concerned with statistics than with any kind of nuanced understanding of the neighborhood.]

I don't want to preach, pile-on, or come across in a negative way, as I am sure [person's name] has been trying to get you to reconsider, but I would feel bad if I did not offer my opinion on you plans to move.

The area you are moving to is bad, and it is not getting better. After they changed the section 8 housing rules a few years back, and forced many of the criminals who were in subsidized housing out (into PG), there was a brief decrease in crime. That was short-lived and now crime is rebounding, with no anticipation of any similar programs to provide such relief again. But even at it's best, that area was still the worst.

I am sure you are aware that 7D has the highest frequency of car-jackings, stolen cars, home invasions, domestic violence, sexual assaults, shootings, etc, but you should also know that many of the crimes throughout the city are linked back to people from your neighborhood. And you will be viewed as a target, someone with money, valuables, a car (an old car that is easy to steal). Those hood-rats will see you as someone they can beat down quickly, or intimidate, and take whatever they want. It happens every day.

The only reason any other areas have comparable stats is because of club zones (drunken crimes), and reporting differences. Much of the crime, probably the majority of it, is not reported. It happens everywhere but the lack of crime reporting is notoriously high in 7D. Simply put, many residents hate the police down there, and don't call them (for a number of reasons I wont get into). There are some bad people down there, who think in ways that you don't understand.

I am sure the people who want to sell that house are giving you a distorted view of the area. They obviously don't have your best interest at heart. And anyone who would encourage you to move there is either ignorant of the reality of the area, or they don't give a shit about you. Some people want to see the glass half full, and be optimistic about the area turning around, with development, Homeland Sec. moving in, etc., but those people are idiots. That area will not turn around, the subsidies maintain the status quo. The only people who truly know the reality of crime are criminals, police, and victims. I'm telling you, you are on your way to learning about crime.

I could go on and on, but you have to let the information in. It sounds like your mind is made up, but I beg you to reconsider. I have no reason to bullshit you, I have no stake in your decision aside from the fact that I don't want to see you hurt. You must ask yourself if any of your other influences may have an angle that you are not yet aware of. There are plenty of other options, and deals to be had, please back out.

I remember when I first bought in Anacostia, I had friends that never even came to see the house. The fear was too deep. Of course, after being there for a few years, I was able to turn a lot of those perceptions around ... but the fear is still alive in a lot of people. Is this experience similar to yours? What's the proper response?

New Apartments for Good Hope Road

2010-12-14T14:49:00.003-05:00

After years of redevelopment limbo, construction is finally underway on the Art Deco building at 15th and Good Hope Road. I noticed that new windows were going in (and glad to see that they are good looking windows), so peeked inside and learned that it will be a mixed-use residential building.

no word on what the other uses will be, but likely ground-floor retail or office space

despite being just outside the historic district, I hope further efforts are made to protect and highlight the Art Deco design

the residential units will be on the second floor, with a few on the first floor on this back half of the building (technically 1916 15th St)

the interior is being gutted now, but it appears that general layout is being preserved

this permit is only for interior demolition

Although the permit I saw was just for interior demo, it shows that there will be 11 residential units, and that the building will remain mixed-use. Here's hoping that the building ends up looking great!

RSVP: SANTA COSTIA this Saturday

2010-12-14T13:56:00.006-05:00

Please mark your calendars for this Saturday evening. I am hosting my annual holiday party at Honfleur Gallery this year, and I would love for you to attend. As it is technically a private (with security) event, you must RSVP to dggarber[at]gmail.com to get on the list!

Click to Enlarge

Thanks to Glacéau Vitamin Water, Flying Dog Ale, and ReadySetDC.com for sponsoring this year's event, which will feature a special performance by Joseph LMS of the Intangible Collective, a New York City-based consortium of slam poetry and spoken word artists.

Suggested donation of $5 goes towards the leadership and academic training of Anacostia teens at FLY Youth DC

New Signage in the Neighborhood

2010-12-09T11:25:00.005-05:00

New signage has been appearing up and down MLK Avenue ... some good-looking, some not-so-amazing-looking.

Branding and signage is one of the most valuable things a business can invest in. On one side of the coin, people often like the underdog "we don't care about things like that" businesses. They're good because they're good, not because they have flashy signage. But when it's presented to them, people tend to appreciate creativity and a sense of legitimacy when they're looking to patronize a business. Here are a few new examples:

Uniontown's conservative lettering brings a new sense of heft to the corner of W and MLK. The kind of "sense of history" and "this is a real business" heft the neighborhood needs to build on.

the hive is open for business and has some new window decals that show off the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of the shared business center.

and the entrance flag sign...

ANC 8-A's offices adjacent to Big Chair went for a much more utilitarian look. The information is there, and as quasi-boring as it is, it kinda fits with the simple art deco of the building.

While I don't think it's the end of the world (and I don't 100% mind it), there's something a little too "Clip Art" about the new Big Chair signage. At this point I'm just glad it doesn't light up.

What do you think? Could the neighborhood be doing better, or is this a good standard to keep up?

the Food Truck mini-party

2010-12-08T13:25:00.004-05:00

this morning, DC Slices, Red Hook Lobster Pound, and Curbside Cupcakes all made it out to Historic Anacostia. And they all had eager and excited customers!

Red Hook Lobster Pound chilling in front of Vivid Solutions

Curbside Cupcakes took the spot in front of Uniontown

DC Slices was ~~hiding out~~ set up on V Street just off MLK

Note to office workers and residents: Shhh, if you keep this up, retailers might learn the Anacostia secret and actually move in to take advantage of your business!

Food Truck Party TODAY at the Big Chair

2010-12-08T01:29:00.006-05:00

you may have seen this on twitter or facebook, but if you're in the neighborhood Wednesday morning, DC Slices, Red Hook Lobster Pound, and Curbside Cupcakes are all making their first stops of the day at the Big Chair (MLK Ave & V Streets SE) starting at around 10:30AM! I know, kinda early, but show them some love!

Uniontown Bar & Grill Update

2010-12-06T16:56:00.006-05:00

Curious about what's going on behind the paper at Uniontown Bar & Grill? I got the tour of 2200 MLK's exciting retail space today, and it's starting to look like a real restaurant/bar inside.

the "Uniontown Bar & Grill" lettering is coming soon

Interior construction is happening really quickly, and they are hoping to be finished with the build-out within the next few weeks. As you can see, the bar is built, but still needs its chocolatey-brown granite counters and surface finishes.

Natasha, the owner, points out where the banquette and table seating will be all the way along the far wall. The space will essentially be one long set of tables against the wall, the bar on the left, and a few stools and high tables at the front windows.

The kitchen equipment will come in when all the interior finish work is complete, but the space in back is getting ready.

As you can see, the bar is definitely the prominent feature of the room ... but it will be interesting to see how that changes when the upholstered high-back bench seating is built into the far wall.

After seeing the space today I am encouraged that the restaurant/bar is actually coming to the neighborhood. Will update as soon as there is a tentative opening date! For more about Uniontown, check out the website: www.UtownDC.com

W Street Townhomes & Condos Financed!

2010-12-03T12:36:00.000-05:00

It's been a long time coming, but Four Points' W Street townhomes and condos project (likely to be called something like Cedar Hill Row) has finally received financing! Stan Voudrie of Four Points, the developer, gave me the good news today that his company has entered into a joint venture partnership with a publicly-traded regional homebuilder to begin construction in 2011. Final building permits still need to be issued, and a formal announcement about the deal is expected early next week.

a slightly outdated aerial rendering - Click to Enlarge

Located the corner of W Street SE and 13th Street SE, the development is the first significant new-construction residential project in Historic Anacostia, and is on the same block as Big Chair Coffee and the under-construction Uniontown Bar & Grill. The project is comprised of 32 condo units, 7 townhouses, and a rebuilt single-family home that will replicate a structure that sat on the site until it was demolished last year.

This is amazing news for the neighborhood because until now one of its greatest deficiencies is its lack of housing diversity. You either buy a condo in an old mid-century low-rise apartment building conversion, a total fixer-upper, or a houseflip (and those aren't all bad ... wink wink). People like options, and this project will help fill in some of the gaps.

Cool video of Honfleur during Fotoweek

2010-11-18T22:37:00.002-05:00

I happened across this video on twitter, and its a stylized but good view of what art shows are typically like at Honfleur Gallery.

video courtesy of TreeHouse Concepts

FOTOWEEK at Honfleur // Poetry at Blank Space Tonight

2010-11-11T10:46:00.006-05:00

FOTOWEEK is back, and Historic Anacostia's Honfleur Gallery is hosting a show called "Likeness" at their space at 1241 Good Hope Road.

The exhibition includes twenty artists (ten photographers + ten visual/street artists) with an end result of ten original portraits + ten interpretations of that portrait.

Come out tonight from 6-8PM for the opening reception.

While you're in the neighborhood, stop by the new Blank Space for the Intersections Poetry Series reading by Rachel Eliza Griffiths at 7PM at 1922 MLK Ave, just around the corner.

FOTOWEEK is November 6- 13. Honfleur Gallery and The Gallery at Vivid Solutions have extended hours all week! Hours: Thursday November 11 12-9PM, Friday November 12 12-8PM and Saturday Nov 13 11-5PM.

Big K Site Visioning Meeting Tonight

2010-11-10T08:58:00.008-05:00

The Big K Site (you know, the giant block with four very horrible looking buildings on it - two of which have amazing restoration potential) on MLK Avenue between Maple View Place and Morris Street, was recently purchased by the DC Department of Housing and Community Development. They want your help envisioning the future of the site:

Click to Enlarge

My priority for the site is that the two large estate homes closer to the corner of MLK and Maple View are fully restored and repurposed as either office space, restaurant use, or some cultural use. This block is the southwestern gateway to the Anacostia Historic District, so we need to make sure it makes a statement that respects what is there now and also inspires better-looking development elsewhere in the neighborhood.

Anacostia on Bones

2010-11-05T18:11:00.007-04:00

Last night, the FOX television show "Bones" aired an episode, part of which was about a detective wanting to pursue a lead in Anacostia. The opening dialogue of the episode shows a very typical outsider understanding of the Anacostia neighborhood. Clearly, there is still much to do to challenge and change assumptions.

Hannah: What do you know about Anacostia?

Booth: It's a neighborhood about a mile and a half from here: seedy, prostitution, lots of gangs, bad activity ... why?

Sweets: Anacostia? That’s a really tough part of town.

Booth: Not compared to downtown Kabul, it’s not.

Brennan: Or the surface of Venus, which is covered by clouds of sulfuric acid and hundreds of active mega-volcanoes. What?! We are talking about tough neighborhoods!

What do you think? What will it take to get the local and national media to stop scaring people? I think the neighborhood is on the right track, and am confident in its transformation ... but I represent a very small percentage of people out there.

It's gonna be a step by step process combining community building, new buildings, good role models, and investment of all kinds to get Anacostia off the "bad neighborhood name-drop" list. Have hope.

image courtesy of Real is Just a Matter of Perception

Curbside Cupcakes on MLK!

2010-10-14T17:22:00.005-04:00

Cupcakes in Anacostia. It actually happened. Yesterday. Curbside Cupcakes finally made its way to MLK Avenue in the heart of Historic Anacostia yesterday morning after being in operation in the city for almost a year.

Fortunately, people were lined up and excited about the food truck, so I hope it will come back! Despite being only a year old, Curbside Cupcakes is one of the oldest in the city's fast-growing fleet of hip, delicious, and brightly colored food trucks serving everything from Korean BBQ tacos to Maine lobster rolls. I know Anacostia's daytime population would be ecstatic to see more of the trucks cross the river!

Sunbelt Rentals Build-Out Begins

2010-10-12T15:00:00.003-04:00

Sunbelt Rentals, the national chain equipment rental brand, is finally building out its space at 2204 Martin Luther King Avenue. The store will rent out construction equipment, and is wisely locating themselves in one of the most under construction areas of the city.

Before the lease was executed, the space had been used for private parties and had a really great raw feel. Despite the loss of exposed brick and (intentional) graffiti, it'll be nice to have a well-run business operating here.

there won't be many exterior improvements other than a new sign and rebuilt iron fence

the space is divided into two sections - the storefront and ...

... the back warehouse and storage area

For anyone who would rather see something more exciting move in - I understand - but, this is a good step towards showing other retailers that this is an acceptable place to locate businesses. And with the "build it and they will come" track the neighborhood is currently growing on, facilitating that "build" stage is pretty important.

Progress at the Hive

2010-10-05T13:40:00.005-04:00

Anacostia's own shared business center The Hive is opening later this month and it's already looking much better inside. Brick has been exposed, drywall is up, and flooring is about to go in.

the exterior will be restored in phase 2 early next year

work inside the the first floor's central hallway

upstairs common area / lounge, and the kitchen

looking into the upstairs conference room

what remains of the building's cool old features is being saved

Oh you know, just another step in the transformation of historic Anacostia. More people working downtown = more businesses opening up = more people want to live there.

The Hive - Coming This Month

2010-09-30T12:35:00.007-04:00

The Hive is coming to main street Anacostia (2027 MLK), and it's opening later this month. What is it? The name says a lot: a place buzzing with creative energy. More specifically, The Hive is a creative and shared workspace for freelancers, satellite offices, and small businesses.

Why join? A lot of you work for yourself yet don't have a great place to "legitimize" the business side of it. Having a place where you can fax & print, hold meetings, and get out of the house is an important way to boost business.

What's available at The Hive? (all services not available at all membership levels)

• Professional Receptionist
• Phone with voicemail
• Free High Speed cable Internet access
• 16 hours a Month Free Conference Room Access
• Fully equipped break area
• Video Conferencing Capability
• Mail and package delivery
• Receiving e-faxes and local e-fax sending
• Dedicated off Street car parking at monthly rate of $75. Hybrid cars $60 a month

Space at The Hive is available at three levels: Full Member (private offices, only one still available), Shared Space, and Virtual Memberships.

Full Member - ($525-575/month)
This option works for individuals and companies who need a dedicated work space, but do not need a full office suite. This option provides the general infrastructure for an organization to carry out its day-to-day operations. Full members have 24-hour, 7-days-a-week, and 365-days a year use of the facility.

Shared Space - ($400/month)
The shared member option is for those who spend a good portion of time outside of the office, yet also require an office space. With this option, individuals or organizations have a desk space and a voicemail. Shared members have 24/7/365 access to the building.

Virtual Member - ($250/month)
The virtual option is for professionals with full-time jobs or those that work out of their homes and but are interested in having a space as a receiving point for packages and mail as well as a company meeting point. Virtual Members may use the common areas and resources) of The Hive.

For more information, download the full Hive membership info page here and go to the Hive's not-quite-ready website at www.theDChive.com

Anacostia on Aljazeera

2010-09-28T15:59:00.008-04:00

This summer, Aljazeera English filmed a documentary feature on the changes coming east of the Anacostia River, specifically in the Anacostia and Barry Farm neighborhoods (although there is some footage of Congress Heights as well).

The feature, called "There Goes the Neighborhood", is an interesting look into the current state of Anacostia, and shows it from a few different angles and perspectives (including my own) on different sides of the economic and racial spectrum.

What do you think? Is this an honest portrayal of these communities?

EDC HQ Expansion Finally Underway

2010-09-21T16:21:00.005-04:00

The headquarters expansion project for Environmental Design & Construction (on Good Hope Road just below MLK) has finally started back up! The company had outgrown its current building on the site, so acquired the two adjacent historic structures and is now working to completely restore the exteriors and build it out as one space on the inside.

you can see where they have begun connecting the two buildings on the inside

my favorite signage mural, which will be preserved as an interior wall

the back of both buildings will be restored/rebuilt along MLK

I love projects like this because they are exactly the type of development that will bring Anacostia into a greener and functional future. Here's a professional company that has chosen Anacostia as its home base, and is retrofitting existing vacant buildings to do so.

The Rippeteau Architects-designed project is expected to receive a LEED Silver certification.

Eat ★ Shop ★ Live : Anacostia

2010-09-10T21:05:00.011-04:00

Today was reSPIN Public Relations, ARCH Development, and DHCD's Big Reveal of Historic Anacostia's new "Eat ★ Shop ★ Live : ANACOSTIA" marketing campaign. Meant to bring new legitimacy, branding, and connectivity to Anacostia's somewhat scattered but very lively group of main street businesses, the campaign has been heralded as "the biggest thing to happen in Anacostia since the Big Chair". And that's big.

The brainchild of Nikki Peele, a Ward 8 entrepreneur who also runs the blog Congress Heights on the Rise and has been a force in recent years towards a renewed image and perception of communities east of the Anacostia River, ESL:A is is the first major event for Peele's firm reSPIN PR, a company she began earlier this year to help outside companies and agencies market their visions, plans, and wares in the typically misunderstood River East half of DC.

ESL:A is similar to a Business Improvement District ~~in that local businesses pay to participate~~, but is free rather than there being any sort of levied tax on the owners. Businesses are given marketing and inclusion into the membership program designed to build their customer base. Window decals and flags mark the participating local shops and eateries, and customers are able to flash keytags to receive discounts.

I think this is a great idea. It has a clean brand, it brings a fresh life and unity to Anacostia businesses, and it enables increased patronage from people who might typically pass these places by.

On a somewhat unrelated note - two of Anacostia's newest spots were advertised at the event: The Hive, a shared office & creative work space (post coming soon); and Blank Space, a new "permanent pop-up gallery" that will be rentable for privately sponsored shows.

Come on out and Eat ★ Shop ★ Live : ANACOSTIA. Seriously.
www.eatshopliveanacostia.com

For more, check out TBD's article on the Big Reveal - with some more background and interviews.

opening up 1357 Good Hope

2010-09-09T13:14:00.003-04:00

1357 is now completely gutted and cleaned, and the exterior is starting to show new signs of life. Long-ago boarded up windows are finally going in!

ghost remains of old first floor windows and doors

Unfortunately, not all the first floor windows are being opened up. I am thankful, however, that the new owners - a high-tech firm that recently redid the White House's Situation Room - decided not to demolish the building, as it is one of (if not The) oldest commercial buildings left on Good Hope Road.

New Deli Coming to MLK and V Street

2010-09-07T18:19:00.004-04:00

I was walking around the neighborhood the other day and ran into some news about 2026 MLK Avenue, the building just to the left of Fireside Restaurant: a new deli and convenience store called 2nd Chance is moving in.

The owner wants to differentiate from other options in the neighborhood, so it will be interesting to see if their sandwiches and "convenience" items are different from those offered at other places just up the block.

From what I understand, permits are being sought for interior improvements, and the owner is open to the idea of not using bulletproof glass inside (although apparently had a bad experience at another shop he owns in the District).

New "mural" for Good Hope / MLK

2010-09-01T10:38:00.004-04:00

you know the horribly depressing blue plywood at the corner of Good Hope and MLK? It'll be gone soon, thanks to the Department of Housing & Community Development, the Commission on the Arts & Humanities, and Billy Colbert - artist extraordinaire.

the new look

the corner as it appears today

The plywood will soon be replaced by a collage composition of recycled wood blocks and shiny orange metal that celebrates the gateway to Ward 8. The piece is intended as a temporary art installation, as DHCD is currently in the process of deciding how to best develop the property. Installation should begin this month.

Yes! Organic Market Opening Tomorrow!

2010-08-30T14:42:00.012-04:00

I haven't blogged much (if at all) about the new Yes! Organic Market opening tomorrow in on Pennsylvania Avenue in Fairlawn, Anacostia's neighbor to the north, because well, it's in Fairlawn and this is a blog about Anacostia. However, it's big enough news and close enough by to make it bloggable. Folks, we officially have good produce, organic dog food, and Fig Newmans in River East!

Owner Gary Cha was kind enough to give me a sneak preview of the new store - the only organic grocer east of the Anacostia River, and the first (of I hope at least a few) Yes! Organics on this side of town.

This market is noticeably larger than both the Capitol Hill and Brookland locations (although apparently similar to Georgia Ave store), and is much more spacious than I expected. Although not the same size as a Whole Foods, this store carries many of the same products and is remarkably comparable!

The first thing you encounter upon walking in is the produce: heaping bushels of peaches, heirloom tomatoes, kiwis, and avocados. It's shockingly awesome to see the colors and the freshness light up the displays.

Because Yes! Organic is committed to only serving fresh produce, it was the last to arrive and will not be completely stocked until just hours before tomorrow's grand opening.

You won't find Skippy on these shelves - the peanut butters are natural, and the bread comes in more colors than white. And check out the cheese selection!

I'm a huge fan of Naked brand juice, so this got me pretty stoked. They also have President Obama's favorite Honest Teas well stocked.

Like most grocery stores, this one carries more than just food - things like toiletries, paper goods, soaps and lotions. And yes, even great quality pet foods.

The refrigerated and freezer aisles are located towards the back of the store, and seriously people, this store has it all: soy milks (and almond, rice, cow, etc) galore, Ciao Bella sorbets and gelatos (and shelf upon shelf of other dairy treats), and tons of yogurt.

Tofurkey.

One of the coolest features of this market is the bulk foods section: flax seed, dried beans, dried fruit, lentils, rice, and even candy. I found owner-in-training Jodie making sure that each of the machines was properly working.

One of the key items missing east of the river is good quality snack food. There are a countless number of places to grab a bag of cheetos and a bottle of blue juice, but this adds something new: whole grains, gluten free options, and stuff that tastes good but is a few steps healthier.

Located at the foot of Pennsylvania Avenue's rise into Wards 7 & 8, the Fairlawn Yes! Organic Market will be a very welcome addition to the greater neighborhood. Grand Opening and ribbon cutting is scheduled for tomorrow, August 31, from 2:30-5:30PM. The store will have its first full day on Wednesday, September 1st.