Ward 5 Weekly Newsletter
April 26, 2024
Transparency Is Accountability
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Quick Links
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You deserve to know how your government is working for you, and what happens when it fails. This is why I introduced the Transparency Is Accountability Amendment Act of 2024 earlier this week. One of the most important forms of accountability for government operations is transparency, and one of the principal mechanisms for delivering that transparency is the District of Columbia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). While this law in theory provides members of the public—including the press—access to public records, the reality of FOIA practice is somewhat different. Far too often, government records pertaining to basic government functions or that shed light on government misconduct are withheld— depriving the public of critical information and frustrating the transparency and accountability objectives of FOIA. Enacting the changes detailed within the legislation will help bolster efforts to weed out unethical and unlawful conduct in the District’s executive and legislative branches and ensure that District residents are better equipped to hold their elected and appointed representatives accountable.
This past week on the Council is an example of the importance of holding government accountable and working to improve agency operations. After months of requests with no action, we finally received the After-Action Report from the tragic flooding involving District Dogs in August 2023. This kind of critical document shouldn't take months to be released. We also received word this week that the Attorney General secured a judgement in a case against a trash transfer facility in Ward 5 that was polluting District waterways. This is a victory for Ward 5 neighbors as we work for the environmental health of our communities and an example of the importance of intra-government coordination. What's more, the busy schedule of ongoing budget oversight brings to light the importance of access to information about agency performance so that we can best allocate the District's resources.
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As my colleagues and I have grappled with how to handle the major cuts in the Mayor's proposed budget, an important shift came recently as the Attorney General issued a formal opinion that clarifies the scope of the Chief Financial Officer's authority in the budget process. Specifically, the Attorney General addressed how much power the CFO has to force the Council to fill one of four cash reserves that the District maintains for emergencies. The opinion makes clear that the Mayor and Council get to make that determination, and the CFO has no authority to withhold spending. I sat down with the Chairman this week to talk more about what this means for our work on the FY2025 budget on the Ward 5 Wave, and encourage you to take a moment to listen in.
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In this edition of the Ward 5 Weekly newsletter, you'll also find lots of important public safety updates, ways to support local Ward 5 businesses, updates about the new library coming to Eckington/Edgewood, information on the upcoming DC Water Rate Adjustment Town Halls, the Bladensburg Bus Garage Reconstruction Spring 2024 Community Meeting on April 30, a free e-waste collection event in Ward 5 on May 2, Notices of Intent modifying traffic/parking requirements in Ward 5, the next Ward 5 Family Biking Family Ride (Star Wars theme!) on May 5, and plenty of community events this weekend including the Bloomingdale Beautification Day, Arboretum Garden Fair and Plant Sale, an Open House at Three Party Harmony Farms, the Black and Forth Farmers Market Kick-off Block Party, Independent Bookstore Day across the city, and more.
(Links not working for you? Click here!)
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Monday morning, I kicked off Earth Day at Unity Health Care in Ward 5 with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Mandy K. Cohen, Deputy Secretary of Commerce Don Graves, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Rick Spinrad, and National Weather Service Director Ken Graham, as they announced a new Heat and Health Initiative to protect Americans from heat exposure.The last ten years have been the hottest years on record. Heat is especially a concern in parts of DC with heat island effects and a declining tree canopy. The CDC's new tool gives residents across DC information to be safe. You can check it out here.
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Later on Monday, I participated in several budget oversight hearings as the Committee on Executive Administration and Labor held a hearing for the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) and the Department of Employment Services (DOES), and the Committee on Housing held a hearing for the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and Housing Production Trust Fund (HPTF).
Monday afternoon, I met with Gerrin Price and Leona Agouridis from the Downtown BID and Golden Triangle BID to discuss strengthening the connections between Ward 5 and downtown, and the transition to a new normal for our downtown corridor.
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Monday also marked the beginning of the 8 days of Passover for Jewish neighbors. Chag Sameach to Ward 5 and District residents celebrating these holy days. May this ancient tradition renew our commitments to greater peace and recognizing the humanity in one another.
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On Tuesday, the Council held a brief Committee of the Whole meeting where we approved a board reappointment for the District of Columbia Retirement Board.
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On Wednesday, I introduced the Transparency Is Accountability Amendment Act of 2024. Following this introduction, we also finally received the After-Action Report from the Office of Unified Communications on the tragic District Dogs flooding incident that occurred last August. I share more about this in the Ward 5 Updates section below.
Wednesday also included several budget oversight hearings: the Committee of the Whole held a hearing for the Department of Buildings (DOB), Office of Zoning, and Office of Planning; the Committee on Recreation, Libraries, and Youth Activities held a hearing for DC Public Library (DCPL) where I followed up on a number of items including the new library coming to the Eckington/Edgewood neighborhoods (more on this in the Ward 5 Updates below); the Committee on Public Works and Operations held a hearing on several mayoral offices including the Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Affairs; and the Committee on Transportation and the Environment held a hearing on the Deputy Mayor for Operations and Infrastructure (DMOI) and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Wednesday afternoon, I hosted the Ward 5 Monthly Public Safety Call with a number of community public safety partners including MPD Commander Sylvan Altieri, MPD Lieutenant Anne DeRoo, and Metro Transit Police Commander Aaron Donald. You can find a recording of the meeting along with the meeting slides in the Public Safety Updates section below.
Yesterday was filled with oversight hearings and meetings. I joined—and even chaired for a bit—the Committee on Facilities and Family Services hearing for the Children and Family Services Agency (CFSA). I met with the Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA) about reported harassment against Thurst Lounge by neighbors, and I also met with Deputy Mayor Nina Albert to discuss my vision for revitalizing Rhode Island Ave NE and ensuring the Providence Hospital development continues to move forward.
Last night, I joined the Kiwanis Club of Washington, DC to support their Student Leader Awards, where they provided scholarships to graduating high school seniors. Young people across our city benefited and are on their way to change the world.
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This morning, I started my day by reading for an Apple Tree Institute PK-4 group a Rocketship Public Charter School's Rise campus in Ward 5. We read Nolan's Safari by Felicia Truong, and the students loved it! As an educator, I always love an opportunity to get back into the classroom.
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Afterward, I headed to Bloomingdale for a walkthrough along Flagler Pl NW with neighbors and the Department of Public Works (DPW) to address a number of issues including missed street sweeping, dumping in alleys, and cars with fake tags. While there, DPW rerouted sweepers and towed a car with fake tags. I'm grateful for DPW's partnership as I work to ensure all Ward 5 neighbors live in clean and safe neighborhoods.
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This afternoon, I joined the Committee of the Whole's budget oversight hearing for the DC Retirement Board, Other Post-Employment Benefits Fund, and the Commission on the Arts and Humanities.
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Earlier this week, I hosted the April Ward 5 Monthly Public Safety Call. You can access the slides from the meeting here, and the recording of the meeting here or by clicking the video below. MPD and Metro Transit Police shared updates on incidents across Ward 5, neighbors asked a variety of questions on topics from drug-free zones to safety on metro, and I shared updates on my office's recent work on public safety.
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Councilmember Parker hosts the April 2024 Ward 5 Monthly Public Safety Call
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We also received updates this week regarding the civil commitment of Russell Dunkley, the individual charged with assaulting the Petit Scholars daycare group last fall. Mr. Dunkley's civil commitment is likely to end soon. The charges filed in his case do not allow for his detention pre-trial. That said, the judge in Mr. Dunkley's case has already issued a stay-away order that prohibits Mr. Dunkley from being inside the blue box on the map below (download here).
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Violation of the stay-away order is a criminal offense, so it is appropriate for you or members of the community to call 911 if they encounter Mr. Dunkley inside the area below. Areas where he is prohibited include Petit Scholars Bloomingdale, Langley ES, McKinley Middle, McKinley HS, Florida Avenue Playground, Crispus Attucks Park, and Harry Thomas Recreation Center. I wish I could share a more precise time that we expect Mr. Dunkley to be released from civil commitment. However, since all indications are that it may happen soon, I wanted to share information with constituents as soon as possible. My office has been in touch directly with Petit Scholars, and we will continue to do everything we can to keep neighbors informed and ensure Mr. Dunkley is held accountable for his actions.
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Lastly, neighbors who shop at the NoMa Harris Teeter will see new policies implemented to assist with security concerns. A third-party security team will begin conducting receipt checks at the exit points of Harris Teeter stores, and they will not allow suitcases, duffel bags, oversized backpacks or rollerbags. The third-party security team’s role is to verify purchases, and, combined with the new bag policy, is intended to ensure the protection of merchandise and assets.
Don't see a public safety incident covered here that you have questions about? It may have been covered in a previous edition (scroll down to see past editions) of my newsletter. If not, please feel free to reach out to my office: 202-724-8028, ward5contact@dccouncil.gov.
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Foxtrot Closes; Lots of Locally-Grown Alternatives
Featuring Ward 5
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You may have heard the news that Foxtrot suddenly shuttered all their shops in the DC region (10) and across the country on Tuesday as its parent company filed for bankruptcy. Whether or not you frequented this all-day-eatery and small grocer, I wanted to take a moment to encourage neighbors to support the many locally-based bodegas and grocers that make Ward 5 and the District vibrant. These small businesses are a key part of healthy communities. Check out this article from Washingtonian, featuring Ward 5 spots including:
- Aurora Market II (2006 Rhode Island Ave NE)
- A. Litteri (517 Morse St NE)
- Salumeria (2703 12th St NE)
- Yang Market (138 U St NE)
There are of course many others not featured in this article, like 7 Days Market (2310 Rhode Island Ave NE), Langdon Market (2409 Franklin St NE), Newton Food Mart (3600 12th St NE), DC Mini Mart (1828 First St NW), U First (1942 First St NW) and more. Next time you're out, stop by and grab snacks, groceries, or drinks from one of these spots and support Ward 5 businesses and families.
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AG Schwalb Secures Judgement Against
Ward 5 Trash Transfer Facility
for Polluting District Waterways
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Yesterday, Attorney General Brian Schwalb announced his office had secured a judgement against Rodgers Brothers Custodial Services, Inc. and its president, George Rodgers, Jr., for repeatedly discharging pollutants—including petrolium and sediment—into DC waterways at its Ward 5 trash transfer and recycling facility in Brentwood. This ruling is a victory for Ward 5 neighbors and District residents alike. I applaud the Attorney General for his partnership in improving the District environmental health, which is a top priority for my office and for Ward 5. You can read the full press release from the Attorney General here.
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After-Action Report: District Dogs August Flooding
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This week, after months of requests and oversight, the Council finally received the After-Action Report on the August 2023 Rhode Island Avenue Flooding, tragically impacting District Dogs. The difficulty of obtaining this report underscores why I introduced the Transparency Is Accountability Amendment Act of 2024. The report reveals critical issues in 911's response to the August incident, and it is difficult to grapple with. The report's key findings and corrective actions include that the Office of Unified Communications facilitated training for call takers and dispatchers on flooding incidents, and a promise to install flood warning beacons in the Rhode Island Ave train tracks underpass. I will continue to follow up with agencies on critical corrective actions and working with my colleagues to ensure we perform robust and effective oversight to prevent tragedy.
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New DC Public Library in Eckington/Edgewood
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DC Public Library is moving forward with plans for a new library in the Eckington/Edgewood area. This past week, they presented at the ANC 5F meeting on the five potential sites for the proposed library, the timeline, and next steps. You can access the presentation here, and a recording of the meeting here. I strongly support this project, and am glad to see it included in the current proposed capital budget.
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Spring Clean-up - Tomorrow (April 27)
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Celebrate Earth Day with community clean-ups across the city tomorrow. In Ward 5, join neighbors in Bloomingdale at 10:00 a.m. at 1700 First St NW. A Roll-Off is also included at this location, allowing neighbors to dispose of bulk trash. Hazardous household waste like paint will not be accepted. More information here.
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My School DC Enrollment Tomorrow
April 27
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Enrollment Saturday allows families to complete enrollment outside of regular school hours and their regularly scheduled hours. Visit My School DC's Enrollment Saturday page for updates on participating schools. Note that schools share their information with My School DC, and for questions, additional information, and instructions for Enrollment Saturday, contact the schools directly. Reminder: If you were matched to a school in the lottery for the 2024-25 school year, you have until May 1, 2024, to enroll your child at their matched school. If you do not enroll your child at their matched school by that date, they may lose their space at the school. Enrolling your child at their matched school will not remove them from waitlists. Questions? Call 202-888-6336 or email at info.myschooldc@dc.gov for assistance in your language.
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Environmental Justice Action Summit - Tomorrow
April 27
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This free event is co-sponsored by Empower DC and the DC Environmental Justice Coalition and will be held from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 27 at First Congregational Church, 945 G St NW with lunch provided. Come out to hear from environmental justice movement leaders, learn about current EJ issues and campaigns, and find out about important policies, tools and resources that you can use to support your EJ advocacy. Register at Events - Empower DC.
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DC Water Rate Adjustment Town Halls
April 27 and 30
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DC Water CEO David Gadis is hosting meetings to discuss proposed rates, current projects, and issues impacting communities across the District. The final town halls are on April 27 (in-person) at April 30 (online). Learn more here:
- Saturday, April 27 - 11:00 a.m. @ Department of Employment Services (4058 Minnesota Ave NE)
- Thursday, April 30 - 6:00 p.m. @ Online (dcwater.com/TownHallApr30)
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Bladensburg Bus Garage Reconstruction
Spring 2024 Community Meeting - April 30
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Join for WMATA's Spring 2024 Community Meeting on the Bladensburg Bus Garage Reconstruction Project. Due to a community survey indicating a preference for virtual meetings, the winter, spring, and fall community meetings will be held virtually. The summer community meetings will be held in a hybrid format. A meeting link will be emailed after you register. The meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 30 from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. and topics will include: project overview and updates, construction and design developments, and a 90-day outlook. Register for the meeting here.
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Free E-Waste Collection Event - May 2
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On Thursday, May 2 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., come to the O'Boyle Hall parking lot at Harewood Rd NE and Fort Slemmer Dr on Catholic University of America's campus in Ward 5 for a free e-waste collection event. Learn more here about accepted items, as well as 32 other District e-waste collection events if you can't make it to this one.
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Near Ward 5: LeDroit Dog Park
Community Meeting - May 8
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The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and Department of General Services (DGS) will hold an in-person meeting to discuss the upcoming renovation of the dog park at the Park at LeDroit. Head to the park (286 V St NW) on May 8 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. on May 8. Contact Christopher Dyer at christopher.dyer@dc.gov or 202-702-9453 with questions or for more information.
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Bike to Work Day - May 17
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Friday, May 17 is Bike to Work Day! Join neighbors at over 100 pit stops across the DC region for this free event and a fun and healthy way to start your day. The first 15,000 people to register and visit a pit stop get a free t-shirt. There will be three pit-stops in Ward 5: Ivy City @ BicycleSPACE, Edgewood @ metrobar, and Brookland @ Turkey Thicket. Register here and look forward to visiting pit stops for free giveaways, food, and beverages at participating locations while supplies last.
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Notices of Intent - Modifying Traffic/Parking Requirements
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The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is required to give written notice of their intent to modify traffic and/or parking requirements to the Council and affected Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners (ANCs) to allow for a public comment period on the modifications. The following Notices of Intent (NOIs) for Ward 5 are open for comment:
- Closes for comment on April 26: Left Turn Restrictions on New Jersey Ave NW at Morgan St NW - Read and comment here
- Closes for comment on May 1: Installation of Residential Permit Parking Signs in ANC 5D - Read and comment here
- Closes for comment on May 1: Left Turn Restrictions and Installation of No Turn on Red Signs at Intersection of Bladensburg Road NE and Eastern Ave NE - Read and comment here
- Closes for comment on May 9: Installation of a HAWK Signal at Intersection of Rhode Island Ave and Thayer St NE - Read and comment here
- Closes for comment on May 9: Installation of a HAWK Signal at Michigan Ave and Quincy St NE - Read and comment here
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Metro Updates: Board Approves Budget Avoiding Major Service Cuts, Prepares for Summer Closures on Red Line, New Bus Shelters at Fort Totten Station
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This week, Metro announced that their board approved a $4.8 billion budget that maintains service and avoids drastic cuts thanks to additional investments from DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Learn more about the approved budget here.
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Additionally, construction of the new bus shelters at Fort Totten began this week. Select bus bays will be temporarily closed during these vital bus shelter installations. Customer outreach teams will be available to help neighbors find temporary bus stop locations. I'm looking forward to seeing the finished product! New and improved bus shelters at Fort Totten will be especially important as Red Line closures north of this station come this summer.
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The above graphic displays stations that will be impacted during WMATA's capital improvements this summer (2024). Beginning in early June, the Glenmont, Wheaton, Forest Glen, Silver Spring and Takoma stations on the Red Line will be closed. The closure will continue through early September with the possibility of reducing the work zone to allow Takoma Station to reopen prior to the end of construction. Detailed service plans, including free express and local shuttle buses, are being developed and will be announced at least one month prior to the start of the closure. The work is being planned in coordination with the Maryland Transit Administration Purple Line Project to build a new mezzanine on the platform at Metro’s Silver Spring Station to provide easier access between Metro and the future MTA Purple Line. Learn more and plan ahead for these closures here.
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ANC and Civic Association Meetings
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This week, my team attended the Edgewood Civic Association, ANC 5E, and ANC 5A meetings. Here's a brief recap:
- Edgewood Civic Association (April 22 at 7:00 p.m.):
- My team shared updates about the budget and heard concerns about the current budget proposal amidst the needs of communities like Edgewood. Neighbors also shared concerns about summer camp slots at Edgewood Rec going to residents who don’t live in the neighborhood, and about empty apartment buildings not going to seniors who need it. MPD shared updates about crime in the area.
- ANC 5E (April 23 at 7:00 p.m.):
- Neighbors heard from DC Water about Lead Free DC. We also heard from the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) about their work collecting data, including how removing children from their home (locking up parents) is a leading indicator for making the child more likely to become criminally involved. My team shared updates about the budget process and discussed the decision to invest $515 million in Capital One Arena. Commissioners debated the DDOT NOI about restricting left turns from New Jersey Ave onto Morgan St NW and the motion to oppose the NOI failed. Mi Casa shared updates about their project at Florida Ave and Q St NW.
- ANC 5A (April 24 at 6:45 p.m.):
- My office shared updates on budget oversight and how neighbors can submit testimony. We also shared information about the E-waste Drop-Off Event at Catholic University on May 2 from 10:00 a.m. –2:00 p.m. The commission also invited Neena Murphy Martin to speak about the 4th District Citizens Advisory Council and how residents in 5A can get involved with the group.
View upcoming ANC and Civic Association meetings on my website here. Here are next week's meetings:
- Wednesday, May 1
- 7:00 p.m.
- North Michigan Park Civic Association
Not sure which ANC is yours? Use this tool to look it up. We're here to help, so email us anytime with questions - ward5contact@dccouncil.gov.
Have a need, or want to share important information for ANC and Civic Association Meetings? Get in touch with one of our Constituent Services Coordinators:
- 5A & 5C: Carlos McKnight, cmcknight@dccouncil.gov
- 5B & 5D: Oliver Stoute, ostoute@dccouncil.gov
- 5E & 5F: Sam Bonar, sbonar@dccouncil.gov
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Kendra Wiley is our office's Legislative Director. In this section of the newsletter, she provides updates on the Councilmember's legislative activities and educational pieces about the legislative process.
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Upcoming Council Hearings
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Below is a list of budget oversight hearings for the week of April 29. Click here for the full schedule, and sign up to testify or submit written testimony here.
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DC Small Business Summit and Expo - April 30
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POWERUP for Success: the 2024 DC Small Business Summit and Expo will be held on April 30, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at the Washington Convention Center. Whether your business is start-up or established you will benefit from:
- Cutting Edge Workshops
- Tools, Tips and Strategies
- Access to Capital and Procurement Opportunities
- Networking Including One-on-One Consultation with Business Experts
In addition, you can visit the business expo and vendor exhibits and participate in an awards luncheon. Register at https://bit.ly/POWERUP4SUCCESS.
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Teacher Hiring Fair - May 1
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Are you interested in a career as a teacher? Join the Martha's Table Teacher Hiring Fair and kickstart your teaching journey! On May 1, 2024 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. head to the Martha’s Table Commons Hub (2375 Elvans Rd SE). There will be on-the-spot interviews, immediate job offers, and a $3,000 sign-on bonus for successful candidates. Register here.
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DC Eviction "Know Your Rights" Meeting - May 2
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Are you a DC tenant or eviction prevention supporter? Join Empower DC’s virtual Anti-Displacement Network meeting Thursday May 2 at 6:30 p.m. to learn about tenants' rights in the DC eviction process and how you can get involved in anti-displacement work. Register here to attend via zoom. Questions? Contact 202-758-3978 or andria@empowerdc.org. *Please note this training is not intended to provide legal advice. If you are facing eviction, please contact a legal service provider.*
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Job & Resource Fair - May 21
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Join Central Union Mission at the Comprehensive Family Resource Center (3194 Bladensburg Rd NE) for a Job & Resource Fair on May 21, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. There will be free groceries, dozens of employers, a resume workshop, haircuts, a free raffle, and more. Register now here or by calling 202-745-7118 ext. 281.
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Girls in Gear is a non-profit that teaches those who identify as girls ages 5 through13 life skills through biking. Girls do not have to be able to ride a bike to take part. They offer financial aid to all who request it and can provide bikes and helmets if needed. They are also still accepting volunteer applications from all genders ages 14+ for those who want to help get more girls building their social and emotional skills through biking. Learn more here about their eight-week season, where weekly 90-minute sessions are designed through age-appropriate lessons for riders focusing on a mix of emotional development and riding skills.
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Bloomingdale:
Bloomingdale Civic Association Beautification Day
April 27 - 10:00 a.m.
@ 1st and R St NW
Join the Bloomingdale Civic Association for a plant giveaway and community clean-up! Meet at 1st and R St NW (Triangle Park/Big Bear Cafe). There will be lunch after the clean-up.
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Arboretum:
Garden Fair & Plant Sale
April 27 - 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
@ U.S. National Arboretum (3501 New York Ave NE)
The Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) is hosting a Garden Fair and Plant Sale. There will be thousands of plants, free family activities, a raised bed gardening workshop, and more. 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. is members-only for the plant sale portion. Plus, enjoy shopping with more than 45 local vendors selling apparrel, home goods, food, and more. Learn more here.
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Arboretum:
ARTboretum
April 27 - 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@ U.S. National Arboretum (3501 New York Ave NE)
The Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA) and DC Childcare Connections (CCC) will bring ARTboretum to FONA’s annual Garden Fair and Plant Sale! ARTboretum is a family-friendly event celebrating the intersection between art and nature. The child-centered, family-focused event for children ages 2 to 12 will include face painting, arts and crafts and games. DC CCC will also be on hand to share information about early childhood programs and services in DC! Registration is not required but encouraged. Register today to join in on the fun! Please contact DC Child Care Connections for questions or additional assistance at (202) 829-2500 or OSSE.dcchildcareconnections@dc.gov.
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Edgewood:
Three Part Harmony Farm Open House
April 27 - 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
@ Three Part Harmony Farm (3122 4th St NE)
On Saturday, April 27, join Three Part Harmony Farm for an open house including farm tours, light refreshments, and meet other members. Plus, help with their spring clean-up day!
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Langdon:
Black & Forth Farmers Market Kick-off Block Party
April 28 - 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@ Black & Forth (2201 Channing St NE)
Black & Forth is kicking off their weekly farmers market season with a block party! Stop by on Sunday, April 28 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. to check out a variety of vendors featuring all Black farmers.
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Bloomingdale:
ANC 5E04 Community Clean-up with Commissioner Imtiaz
April 28 - 10:00 a.m.
@ Meet outside 150 V St NW
Join ANC 5E04 Commissioner Huma Imtiaz and neighbors for a community clean-up this Sunday, April 28. Meet at 10:00 a.m. outside of 150 V St NE. Trash pickup supplies will be provided. Questions? Reach out to Commissioner Imtiaz at 5e04@anc.dc.gov.
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McMillan/Parkview:
Wangari Gardens Spring Festival
May 4 - 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
@ Wangari Gardens (Park Pl NW between Irving St and Kenyon St NW)
Mark your calendar for the Wangari Gardens Spring Festival coming in May. Learn more here.
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Across Ward 5:
Ward 5 Family Biking: Star Wars Family Ride
May 5 - 10:30 a.m.
@ Ride begins at Trinidad Rec Center (1310 Childress St NE)
Mark your calendar for the next Ward 5 Family Biking family ride! The ride will begin at the Trinidad Recreation Center (1310 Childress St NE), and this police escorted ride will have some light hills. The rides go slow and take breaks. Kids of all ages and abilities are welcome on their own bikes, on cargo bikes, bike seats, bike trailers, or whatever works for your family. Costumes encouraged! The ride will end with a child-friendly festive time at Lost Generation Brewing. Food trucks La Michocana (Mexican) and Bun'd Up (Korean/Taiwanese) will be on site. Beer specials will be available for bikers that can show evidence of a W5FB sticker on their helmet, water bottle, or bike. As always, VEO, the mobility company, will be on site with giveaways! A few lucky adults will also receive Ward 5 Family Bike t-shirts. Learn more here.
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Bloomingdale:
Bloomingdale Community Day
May 18
@ Crispus Attucks Park
This is a beautiful day of community, food, music, sun, fun, and the Bloomingdale community's annual dog show! Mark your calendar. Do you want to help make the event a success? There are a variety of volunteer roles open and you can sign up here.
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Across the city:
DC Independent Bookstore Day
April 27
@ Access the map HERE
Visit one of DC's many independent bookstores for the annual celebration of Independent Bookstore Day. The DC Bookstore Crawl is a chance to connect over books, bring friends, meet new ones, post stories as you go, find booksellers who share your taste, and ask for recommendations. Plus you can win a prize by visiting at least five locations. Visit all nineteen and enter a raffle for the grand prize! Learn more here.
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Petworth:
Petworth PorchFest
April 27 - 2:00 - 8:00 p.m.
@ Across the Petworth Neighborhood
Petworth PorchFest is a volunteer-led annual event spearheaded by a passionate group of Petworth residents. Inspired by other PorchFests throughout DC and eager to connect with their community after a global pandemic, they created Petworth PorchFest in the spring of 2021. The event brings together community by offering Petworth residents an opportunity to host local bands on their porch, where residents and visitors can enjoy live music together. The aim of the event is to encourage the gathering of community, support local artists and businesses, and inspire people through the art of music. Learn more here.
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Hillbrook/Lincoln Heights:
Dreaming Out Loud 2024 Spring Festival
April 27 - 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
@ The Farm at Kelly Miller
(behind Kelly Miller Middle School - 301 49th St NE)
Join Dreaming Out Loud, Inc. for their Annual Spring Festival, in collaboration with the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR), City Blossoms, and Call Your Mother Deli. There will be food, games, community, and more!
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National Mall:
Día del niño: A Celebration of Children's Storytime and Literacy
April 27 - 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
@ National Museum of the American Latino (inside the National Museum of American History)
Head to the GM Learning Lounge at the Molina Family Latino Gallery (the first physical presence of the National Museum of the American Latino, inside the National Museum of American History) for three story hours with Latino authors. Learn more here.
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West End:
Artomatic
Now Until April 28
@ 2100 M St NW
Artomatic strengthens the artistic community and builds an audience for that community by bringing together artists to temporarily transform available space into a creative place. Enjoy a building full of art, artists, and community! Drinks and snacks are available on multiple floors. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, open from 5:00 - 9:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays, 12:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 12:00 - 9:00 p.m. on Sundays. Learn more here.
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NoMa:
NoMa Farmers Market Kick-off
May 2 - 4:00 - 8:00 p.m.
@ 3rd St NE between M and N St NE
The NoMa Farmers Market is kicking of its next season at a new location allowing for them to expand on May 2. Check it out on 3rd St NE between M and N St NE for a variety of local vendors.
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Anacostia:
Anacostia River Festival
May 4 - 1:00 - 5:00 p.m.
@ Anacostia Park (Marion Barry Ave & Anacostia Dr SE)
2024 marks the tenth anniversary of the Anacostia River Festival presented by the 11th Street Bridge Park, the National Park Service, and National Cherry Blossom Festival. On May 4, visitors can experience Southeast DC’s vibrant arts scene and shop locally from talented entrepreneurs east of the river. Guests can explore the beautiful Anacostia watershed with activities and fishing at the Anacostia River Festival. Enjoy sounds from the Navy Band, Adamare Music, & Junkyard Band. It's free & family friendly! Learn more here.
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Most clicked links from last week's newsletter (not just news!):
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A highlight of my week was getting a visit from community partners at Damien Ministries. I am grateful for their work in Ward 5 improving the health and wellness of those in need by connecting them to a continuum of services throughout the District of Columbia, and their years of supporting neighbors who are isolated in their suffering with HIV/AIDS. They are building healthy communities through their service and partnership.
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As always, I invite you to use this form to provide feedback on how we're doing. We'd love to hear from you anytime.
Yours in service and community,
Zachary
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Want to reach one of my staff members?
Save this directory to stay in touch with us.
Chief of Staff, Rachelle Roberts -
rroberts@dccouncil.gov, 202-724-8918
Deputy Chief of Staff, Conor Shaw -
cshaw@dccouncil.gov, 202-724-8172
Legislative Director, Kendra Wiley -
kwiley@dccouncil.gov, 202-724-8192
Communications Director, Melissa Littlepage -
mlittlepage@dccouncil.gov, 202-724-8028
Constituent Services Coordinator, Carlos McKnight -
cmcknight@dccouncil.gov, 202-478-2456
Constituent Services Coordinator, Oliver Stoute -
ostoute@dccouncil.gov, 202-724-8107
Constituent Services Coordinator, Sam Bonar -
sbonar@dccouncil.gov, 202-724-1344
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