This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
Happy first week of December! I hope you all had a relaxing Thanksgiving weekend and were able to spend quality time with neighbors and loved ones.
We’re looking ahead to a busy final few weeks of the year both on the Council and in the Ward 4 community, and there are many exciting updates to share, including a brand-new Aldi opened in Riggs Park, leaf collection continuing in Petworth and Brightwood Park, and exciting progress on legislative proposals impacting Ward 4. Let’s get right into it!
Community News
Aldi Open in Riggs Park
On Thursday, we officially welcomed a brand-new Aldi supermarket to our Riggs Park community! The new store is located at 5300 South Dakota Ave, just minutes away from the Lamond-Riggs Library and Fort Totten Metro. I am grateful to have a new location offering groceries and new job opportunities for the Riggs Park community. As a reminder, the store is still hiring for several roles, both full-time and part-time.
Leaf Collection Beginning in Section 4D
On Monday, December 9th, the Department of Public Works (DPW) will begin leaf collection for neighbors in Section 4D of the leaf collection map, which includes Brightwood Park and parts of Petworth east of Georgia Ave. If you live within Section 4D and haven’t already, make sure to have your leaves raked to your tree box or curbside to ensure DPW picks them up during one of their two passes of the neighborhood. If you live in one of the neighborhoods that has already received a first pass but have not yet received collection (Sections 4A, 4B, and 4C), you can submit a 311 request (my office is happy to help too!). Remember, DPW is sharing regular updates on their progress and completed streets on its leaf collection website.
Petworth Building Fire Contained
Early Monday morning, DC Fire and EMS responded to a fire at a three-story building on the 800 block of Varnum Street in Petworth. Thankfully, FEMS was able to quickly extinguish the fire and evacuate everyone inside, with nobody injured. As a result of the fire, MPD temporarily blocked off parts of Varnum Street between 9th Street and Georgia Ave Monday morning. We owe a debt of gratitude to the first responders who were on the scene within minutes and continue to keep our communities safe when emergencies like these take place.
Council News/Legislative Updates
Council Action on CLEAN Collections Act
During Tuesday’s Committee of the Whole and Legislative Meetings, the Council passed the CLEAN Collections Act on its first reading. I was proud to introduce this bill back in 2022 to address trash overflow and rodent infestation by requiring adequate trash and recycling cans and more regular waste collection in multifamily buildings. The bill will go through one more vote at our final legislative session on December 17th.
This bill is the direct result of conversations with constituents and concerns voiced by neighbors about inadequate trash collection in our communities. As the number of DC residents working from home has grown over the last several years, so too has the volume of trash and litter in Ward 4 neighborhoods, bringing rodents and other pests along with it. This bill will set clear and specific standards for provision of waste containers and frequency of collection to help mitigate these challenges.
I’m particularly grateful to our ANC Commissioners who have been integral in bringing attention to this issue and have served as invaluable partners in advancing the legislation. I’m confident the CLEAN Collections Act will make our neighborhoods cleaner and healthier and look forward to seeing it go into effect.
SAFE Act Hearing
On Tuesday, December 10th at 11:30am, the Committee of the Whole will hold a public hearing on the Secure Apartments for Everyone (SAFE) Act. The bill was introduced by Attorney General Brian Schwalb in July and is aimed at improving safety for tenants throughout DC by strengthening the city’s ability to take action against properties where residents are endangering their neighbors and requiring all rental properties with 5 or more units to maintain basic safety measures.
These issues have been of the utmost concern for Ward 4, particularly at Petra properties in Brightwood, 16th Street Heights, and Petworth, and I’m grateful to Attorney General Schwalb for moving this bill forward. If you’d like to sign up to testify at Tuesday’s hearing, you can do so here.
Community Resources
EdFEST 2024
With the launch of the My School DC lottery application on December 16th, 2024 for the 2025-26 school year, EdFEST is a timely event to help families make informed school selections. EdFEST will feature many free services and fun activities for the whole family including guidance on navigating the lottery process, routine childhood vaccines and flu and COVID shots for adults (appointments required), free meals from DC Central Kitchen (Dec. 14th), and more! The event will be split into two days for grades Pre-K-8 and 9-12:
- Grades 9-12: Saturday, December 7th, 10am to 1pm at Eastern High School
- Grades PK3-8: Saturday, December 14th from 10am to 1pm at DC Armory
New Location for Virginia Williams Family Resource Center
On December 23rd, 2024, the Virginia Williams Family Resource Center (VWFRC), the central intake office for DC families seeking housing assistance, will relocate from its current location at 920-A Rhode Island Ave NE to the DC Department of Human Services (DHS) headquarters, located at 64 New York Ave NE. DHS will continue providing in-person and virtual services at VWFRC and services to District families will continue uninterrupted.
Ward 4 Capital Projects Meeting
On Monday, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the Department of General Services (DGS) held a meeting to update the community on construction projects underway in Ward 4. To access a video recording of the meeting, click here.
Emery Heights Community Center Modernization Meeting
On Monday, December 9th from 6pm to 7:30pm, the DC Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) and the DC Department of General Services (DGS) are holding a community meeting to discuss the upcoming athletic field replacement and the modernization of the Emery Heights Community Center. The meeting will take place in person at Emery Heights Community Center.
Income-Contingent Hazardous Tree Removal
Last week, the DC Department of Transportation’s Urban Forestry Division announced the refunding of its Income Contingent Hazardous Tree Mitigation Program, which is now available to assist eligible residents with hazardous tree mitigation on private property. In order to qualify, applicants must be the owner of a single-family dwelling in DC, be currently enrolled in the IRS Homestead Deduction, and currently receive DC government assistance (proof required). After submitting an application with the required documents, an Urban Forestry arborist will inspect the tree within 30 days.
ANC 4B06 Toy and Coat Drive
ANC 4B06 Commissioner Tiffani Nichole Johnson is organizing a coat and toy drive to gather donations for Ward 4 families in need ahead of the holiday season. Neighbors can drop off near coats of all sizes and new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages at the drop-off location at 5806 3rd Place NW from 8am to 5pm until December 16th, 2024. If you’d like to volunteer to help or have any questions, reach out to Commissioner Johnson at 4b06@anc.dc.gov.
Help Shape DC Public Library’s New Rules of Behavior
DC Public Library is seeking community input as it begins the process of updating its rules for expected behavior in libraries. Your feedback will help inform these rules and ensure that libraries are a safe, welcoming, and equitable place for all. You can share your thoughts by taking a 5-minute survey.
DC Water Updates
DC Water has shared several updates on work taking place in Ward 4 neighborhoods. Keep in mind that construction activities are highly dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Here are some of this week’s updates, particularly for Manor Park, 16th Street Heights, and Brightwood Park neighbors:
- Next Monday through Wednesday, DC Water is expecting to perform roadway restoration activities on the 100 block of Sheridan St NW.
- Next Monday, DC Water is expecting to perform sewer lining activities on the 400 block of Madison St NW.
- Throughout next week, DC Water is expecting to perform new water main installation on the 1300 block of Gallatin St NW.
- Throughout next week, DC Water is expecting to perform water service reconnections to individual properties on the 300 block of Kennedy St NW.
- Throughout next week, DC Water is expecting to perform flushing, water quality sampling, and tie-ins of newly installed water mains on the 300 and 400 blocks of Hamilton St NW.
Neighborhood Events
Holiday Craft Fair and Wreath Workshop
On Saturday, December 7th from 11am to 5pm, Christ Lutheran Church (5101 16th St NW) is hosting a free holiday craft fair and wreath workshop open to members of the community. The event will include crafts, baked goods, jewelry, home decor, vintage clothes, and much more.
Holidays from the HeART at Zenith Gallery
Starting today, Zenith Gallery in Shepherd Park has a brand-new art exhibit open, entitled “Holidays from the HeART.” Zenith Gallery is hosting two meet the artist receptions this weekend, tonight from 4 to 8pm, and Saturday from 2 to 6pm. The gallery will be open until January 11th, and is located at 1429 Iris St NW.
Christ Lutheran Church Holiday Market
On Saturday, December 7th from 11am to 3pm, Christ Lutheran Church (5101 16th St NW) is organizing a holiday market open to members of the community. Explore a variety of handmade crafts, baked goods, jewelry, home décor, vintage clothing, pictures with Santa, and so much more. There will be cider, Christmas carols and a free Wreath-Making Workshop — All supplies provided!
Illuminate Upshur
On Saturday, December 7th, Uptown Main Street is organizing a Luminary Walk on the 800 block of Upshur St NW from 5 to 7pm. The event will feature a photo booth, shopping specials at local businesses, music, and much more.
DC Holiday Hunt
DC’s Holiday Hunt is happening now until January 5th! Neighbors will get the opportunity to explore DC while supporting small businesses for a chance to win prizes. Visit https://dcholidayhunt.com/ to find local Ward 4 businesses to support this month!
Ward 4 Public Schools Winter Market
On Saturday, December 7th, several Ward 4 public schools are coming together to host a Winter Market at MacFarland Middle School from 10am to 2pm. Participating schools currently include Dorothy Height, Truesdell, MacFarland, Brightwood, Barnard, and John Lewis. Proceeds go towards supporting our Ward 4 schools!
Simple Bar & Grill Holiday Bazaar
On Saturday, December 7th at 2pm, Simple Bar and Grill is hosting a Holiday Bazaar, complete with music, a bilingual kids theater show, and Santa! The organizers are also looking for artist vendors to support the event. If interested, call 202-316-9171.
Trail Mix for Martha’s Table
On Sunday, December 8th at 4pm, ANC 4B’s Youth Advisory Committee and Commissioner Erin Palmer are hosting a family-friendly service activity making trail mix for Martha’s Table. The event will take place at Commissioner Palmer’s house (715 Van Buren Street, NW). Bring ingredients and assemble individual bags of trail mix for donation to Martha’s Table and distribution via McKenna’s Wagon to neighbors in need. (You can note what you’re bringing in the event comments to help make sure there is a good mix of items.) There will be pizza and drinks. All are welcome! RVSP and find more details here.
Wednesday Jazz on Kennedy Street
Uptown Main Street is hosting its final monthly live jazz performance of the year on Wednesday, December 11th from 7 to 9pm. The Abe Mamet Trio will be performing on the 700 block of Kennedy Street NW.
16th Street Heights Porch Party
On Friday, December 13th, join 16th Street Heights neighbors for a progressive porch party! What’s a progressive porch party, you ask? Start at one house, hang out on the porch, enjoy snacks and drinks and connections. Then, pack it up and wander to the next spot! Come for as much or as little time as you are able – meet new people and build community. No need to bring anything except yourselves! The event is organized by ANC 4E05 Commissioner-Elect Camsie McAdams. Find more details below:
Upshur St Craft Fair
On Saturday, December 14th, Uptown Main Street is hosting a craft fair on 9th and Upshur St NW from 11am to 4pm. The event will feature photos with Santa, Teatro de la Luna, a gingerbread house contest, kids’ entertainment, giveaways, local vendors, and more!
Petworth Library Used Book Sale
On Saturday, December 14th from 11:30am to 3:30pm, The Friends at Petworth Library are hosting a used book sale in the basement of the Petworth Library, 4200 Kansas Ave NW. Used books will go for 50 cents, paperbacks for $1, and hardbacks for $2, plus, a selection of totes, t-shirts, and kids’ shirts. Proceeds will go towards library programming and the greater Petworth community. Sign up here to volunteer!
South Manor Neighborhood Association Holiday Get-Together
On Thursday, December 19th at 6:30pm, the South Manor Neighborhood Association is hosting a holiday get-together at the Lamond Riggs/Lillian J. Huff Neighborhood Library. Come meet with neighbors and hear what’s happening in South Manor. Light refreshments and holiday treats will be served. All are welcome, but space is limited, so RSVP here.
When Faith and Mental Health Intersect
On Thursday, December 19th from 11am to 12:30pm, Ward 4 Faith Leaders and the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) are hosting a mental health training event open to the community, entitled “When Faith and Mental Health Intersect.” The event will take place at Zion Baptist Church (4850 Blagden Ave NW) and will be hosted by Rev. Dr. Keith W. Bird.
Winter Wonderland at Walter E. Washington Convention Center
On Saturday, December 21st from 10am to 1pm, Events DC is holding its annual Winter Wonderland event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center (801 Allen Y. Lew Place, NW). My office has 20 tickets to distribute to Ward 4 kids, and registration is first-come, first-served. You can register by clicking this link and using the access code LEWISGEORGE. Events DC will only accept up to four children per adult, and children must be present to receive the presents. When families are registering, adults must register for themselves and all the children in the total quantity of tickets submitted.
For more local events, check out DPR, DC Public Library, and NPS.
Important Reminders
Office Hours in the Community
Every Wednesday afternoon, our Ward 4 constituent services team holds office hours at Fort Stevens Rec Center from 12 to 1pm, followed by office hours atHattie Holmes Senior Wellness Center from 1:30 to 2:30pm. Community members can stop by and speak one-on-one with a member of our team about DC government services or our work in the Ward 4 community.
DCHA “Meet and Lease” Events
Over the next few weeks, the DC Housing Authority (DCHA) is hosting a series of “Meet and Lease” events at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St SW. Voucher recipients will have the opportunity to meet with landlords to get connected with housing opportunities. The events will take place on weekdays from 2 to 5:30pm, and Saturdays from 1 to 4pm on the following dates: Saturday, December 7th, Thursday, December 12th, and Tuesday, December 17th.
Ward 4 in the News
Next Stop…Riggs Park: December 5: Aldi Grand Opening in Riggs Park
Next Stop…Riggs Park: Final Metrobus Network Redesign Approved – Changes Coming Summer 2025
ABC 7: The legacy and moments of the DC Turkey Bowl: Dunbar and Coolidge High School face-off
NBC 4: ‘He’s the glue’: Emotional Turkey Bowl after Coolidge coach’s death last week
WTOP: 54th Turkey Bowl played in DC — ‘This is like the Super Bowl for DC high schools’
Petworth News: The Bike House is your best way to learn bicycle maintenance, right here in Petworth
The MocoShow: Two Maryland Restaurants Make “Best Pasta Places Around D.C.” List
Ward 4 Dispatch: Wishing You a Happy Thanksgiving, Ward 4!
These are news articles that mention Ward 4 or pertain to events in our community. Councilmember Lewis George does not write or endorse their content but shares them for community awareness.
This past weekend we celebrated Small Business Saturday, a day to lift up the incredible small local businesses we have in Ward 4 and throughout DC. The holiday season is a great time to visit some of these amazing businesses our community has to offer! Ward 4 also has four Main Street Associations: Uptown, Petworth, The Parks, and Takoma, who do incredible work to make our commercial corridors as vibrant as they can be. You can visit their websites or check out the neighborhood events section of my newsletter to see some of the amazing events they are organizing in Ward 4!
Wishing you a wonderful weekend, Ward 4!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
