This Week’s Highlights
Dear Neighbors,
It’s hard to believe Thanksgiving is already here! This weekend, I’m hosting one of my favorite events of the year, my annual Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway with the Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association. If you know someone who needs support this Thanksgiving, make sure to spread the word. Lastly, with several major legislative developments taking place over the last week, I’m sharing updates on everything neighbors need to know from the Council and Congress.
Community News
Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway Tomorrow at Riggs LaSalle Rec!
As neighbors prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving next week, it’s important we make sure nobody in our community goes without for the holiday season. Every year, one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is hosting a turkey giveaway with the Lamond-Riggs Citizens Association to hand out turkeys to Ward 4 neighbors in need. From 11am to 1pm tomorrow, November 22nd, my team and I will be at the Riggs LaSalle Rec Center distributing turkeys donated by several generous community groups. As a reminder, proof of Ward 4 residency (driver’s license, utility bill, etc.) is required, and the event will be first come, first served, one turkey per family. I hope to see you there!
Responding to DC’s Broken ERAP System
Soon after DC’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) portal opened on Thursday, I was disappointed to hear dozens of reports of extreme delays and inoperative phone lines facing residents trying to apply for assistance. On top of that, hundreds of neighbors hoping to apply for ERAP stood for hours in the cold at Virginia Williams Family Resource Center — some starting as early as 6am — all in the hope of keeping a roof over their heads.
ERAP is one of the most important resources available to residents facing housing instability, yet year after year, it continues to be underfunded in the DC budget. As the District faces an affordable housing and eviction crisis, the severely inadequate funding that has been allocated to ERAP is a big reason why I decided to vote against the FY26 budget and pushed for greater support for rental assistance. Our low-income residents deserve a system that reliably works, not one that forces them to wait out in the cold just to be able to stay in their homes.
Council News/Legislative Updates
Two Anti-Home Rule Bills Pass the House of Representatives
This week, the House of Representatives approved two bills attempting to overturn laws passed by the DC Council, including measures to restore the cash bail system and reverse key police accountability reforms. Cash bail was ended in DC more than 30 years ago and has been limited or abolished in numerous states across the country. This change would require incarceration before any determination of guilt simply due to a person’s inability to pay, making our communities far less safe.
I was also deeply disappointed to see the House vote to reverse a crucial law passed by the Council to expand use of body-worn cameras for MPD officers. As DC residents continue to voice distrust their and fear of law enforcement amid cooperation with National Guard and ICE, this bill will only erode trust even further between MPD and the communities they serve.
We need to be clear: these bills have nothing to do with public safety. Instead, they are a deliberate power grab to interfere in DC’s local affairs and overturn our democratically passed laws. Especially as millions struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and basic necessities, I’m angered by this reckless interference and know many Ward 4 neighbors feel the same. We will not allow Congress to drag us backward, and I hope to see the Senate firmly vote these bills down.
Despite this harmful vote, we also received some good news this week. On Thursday, a federal judge’s ruling affirmed what we have known for months: that the Trump administration’s deployment of National Guard troops to DC is unconstitutional and unlawful. Since Day One of the federal occupation of DC, I have urged DC’s Attorney General to use every legal tool available to protect the rights of the District’s residents, and I’m grateful to AG Schwalb and his team for defending DC autonomy in the face of an authoritarian assault on our city. It is long past time for the National Guard to go home and leave the people of DC to resume our rightful role in keeping our communities safe.
Improving Access and Transparency for DPR Pools
On Thursday, I chaired an oversight roundtable on closures and staffing issues at DPR pools. For months, I have heard dozens of concerns from neighbors reporting the same experience of showing up at their neighborhood pool only to find the doors locked with no explanation. These aren’t just minor inconveniences. Ward 4 and DC residents have shared with me how these disruptions have genuinely upended their lives. What’s more, these disruptions aren’t affecting everyone equally. While Roosevelt pool in Ward 4, Dunbar in Ward 5, and Ballou in Ward 8 have been closed for months on end, pools in Wards 1 and 3 remained open throughout the summer and continue operating today. When residents in some wards can enjoy their neighborhood pools while others cannot, that’s not just an operational problem – that’s an equity issue that demands our attention.
During the hearing, DPR shared that they had believed closing Roosevelt Pool would have a minimal impact on residents due to perceived low usage. However, resident testimony made it clear that for the many neighbors who use the pool, it is an essential resource. I’m grateful to every neighbor who took the time to testify and share their experiences directly with DPR leadership. I was glad to hear DPR acknowledge the poor communication with residents that has left many in the dark around the status of our pools and agree to explore options to resolve these issues. Lastly, I asked about the expected status of the Takoma pool during the upcoming renovation of its locker room. While DPR did not give a definitive answer, they intend to share a plan with neighbors before construction begins.
District residents pay taxes that fund these pools, and it is fundamentally unfair that they can’t depend on them being open. Our community deserves honest, transparent communication from DPR, and I’ll continue to push for improved DPR aquatics experiences for all our residents.
Council Holds Hearing on Extreme Heat Eviction Protection Act
While summer is in the rearview mirror, anyone who has spent a summer in DC knows how intense our heat can be. While we already take steps to protect people during heat emergencies, none of that helps if someone is being forced out of their home. On Thursday, the Committee on Housing held a hearing on my Extreme Heat Eviction Protection Act. The bill would take a simple step that would make a big difference, pausing evictions on any day when temperatures rise above 95 degrees by 8am.
In areas like Ward 4 where heat exposure regularly exceeds the District average, residents — especially seniors and young children — are put at risk when temperatures reach the extremes. DC law already extends these same protections to tenants in below-freezing temperatures, with the recognition that housing is the first line of protection against extreme temperatures. I’m grateful to Councilmember Robert White for holding a hearing on this important bill and to everyone who testified and hope to see the bill receive a markup and vote soon.
Community Resources
Leaf Collection Continues in Section 4B
After completing its first round of leaf collection in Section A, the Department of Public Works (DPW) began collection in Section 4B this week. This section includes parts of 16th Street Heights, Crestwood, Brightwood, and Petworth, west of Georgia Ave. As a reminder, DPW will conduct two rounds of leaf collection in each section. As this process continues, I want to make sure neighbors are aware of a few important highlights:
- Locate your section and keep up to date on DPW’s progress via the leaf collection tracker at dpw.dc.gov/leaf.
- To ensure proper collection, make sure to have your leaves raked to your curbside or tree box at least 24 hours before collection is scheduled to begin in your section.
- To report a missed collection, call 202-737-4404 or submit a 311 request.
South Dakota Ave Corridor Safety Project Meeting
In December, DDOT is partnering with Ward 5 Councilmember Zachary Parker to host two public meetings on the South Dakota Avenue Corridor Safety Project, which extends from Riggs Road, NE to Bladensburg Road, NE, and will impact many Ward 4 residents. DDOT will host two meetings: a virtual meeting on Thursday, December 4th from 6 to 8pm, and an in-person meeting on Saturday, December 6th from 10am to 12pm at The Sojourner Truth School (1800 Perry St, NE). Learn more about the project on DDOT’s website.
Emory Fellowship Community Giveaway
On Saturday, November 22nd from 10am to 2pm, The Emory Fellowship will host The Family Storehouse, a free community distribution offering clothing, shoes, toys/games, and household items for families across the area. All items are available at no cost, and no registration is required. The event will take place at The Emory Fellowship (6100 Georgia Ave NW).
DOES Unemployment Resources
The Department of Employment Services (DOES) is hosting bi-weekly webinars to assist federal employees impacted by the recent reductions in force in the District of Columbia. The virtual webinar sessions will provide guidance on available resources including the Unemployment Insurance benefits process, job training opportunities, career counseling, and workforce re-entry programs. The next sessions will take place from 12 to 1pm on Friday, December 5th and Friday, December 12th.
Thanksgiving at Cease Fire…Don’t Smoke the Brothers & Sisters
On Thursday, November 27th from 3 to 7:30pm, Cease Fire…Don’t Smoke the Brothers and Sisters, along with Universal Madness, are hosting the 16th annual sit-down Thanksgiving dinner serving the homeless, senior citizens, returning citizens, at-risk youth, and any member of the community who would like to join. The dinner will take place at 4708 14th St NW with a delicious meal prepared by Chef Moe of Highlands Cafe and Grill.
Support Emory Beacon of Light’s Food & Gift Card Drive
The Emory Beacon of Light community is organizing a food and gift card drive to help provide meals to families in need this Thanksgiving season. Donations will be accepted until Sunday, November 23rd and can be dropped off at 6100 Georgia Ave, NW. For more information, call 202-829-5732 or email l.nelson@emorybol.org. Every second and fourth Saturday of the month, Emory Beacon of Light also hosts food giveaways with free food, fresh fruit and vegetables, and more. If you’d like to volunteer, email l.nelson@emorybol.org.
Ward 4 Mutual Aid 2025 Holiday Gift Match
Want to help a family in Ward 4 with holiday gifts this year? Sign up for Ward 4 Mutual Aid’s Holiday Gift Match! Last year, 237 families with over 700 children participated in the Gift Match with the support of 266 sponsors. Any Ward 4 family with children under the age of 16 can sign up to receive gifts. Families and sponsors can sign up using this online form.
BVSPCA Free Adoption Until November 23rd
Interesting in adopting a pet? Brandywine Valley SPCA is extending their free adoption promotion following the DC Village location grand opening last week. This promotion will continue with $0 adoption fees until November 23. Learn more here.
Neighborhood Events
Uptown Main Street Events on Kennedy Street
Over the next few weeks, Uptown Main Street will organize several community events on Kennedy Street. The Weekend Tunes series continues this Saturday at 5th and Kennedy St at 11am. Then there will be live music and an art activity plus small business food and drink specials in the afternoon on the 700 block. Then, December 3rd will be the final Wednesday Jazz of the Year at 6pm on the 700 block of Kennedy Street. And finally, the last Weekend Tunes of 2025 will be on Saturday, December 13th from 11am to 1pm with holiday music and community cheer.
Petworth Peanuts Turkey Trot at Sherman Circle
On Sunday, November 23rd at 10am, join Petworth Peanuts for its annual “Turkey Trot” race around Sherman Circle! This free, family-friendly event is open to all ages and includes race numbers, finisher medals, and free turkey headbands (while supplies last) for all participants. Plus, fun prizes for the first, second and third place finishers. No registration is required, but neighbors are encouraged to bring donations for Petworth Peanuts’ Thanksgiving Food Drive, benefiting Ward 4 Mutual Aid.
Petworth Recreation Center Clean-Up
On Saturday, November 22nd from 10 to 11am, ANC 4C and Petworth neighbors are hosting a clean-up on the grounds of the Petworth Rec Center (801 Taylor St NW) for the final day of the Petworth Community Market. Bags and gloves will be provided, just bring your energy!
Thanksgiving Grocery Pop at Simpson-Hamline UMC
On Wednesday, November 26th, Simpson-Hamline United Methodist Church and Raised to Reach Back, Inc. will host a Thanksgiving grocery pop-up from 1 to 3pm at 4501 16th St, NW. All those in need are welcome to pick up Thanksgiving essentials including stuffing, onions, potatoes, beans, rice, peppers, and more.
Petworth Main Street Holiday Events
The season of cheer is approaching, and Petworth Main Street has a variety of events planned for you! First up is a Small Business Saturday Passport event on Saturday, November 29th from 10am to 7pm. Jumpstart your holiday shopping at your favorite Upshur Street businesses for a chance to win a gift basket!
For more local events, check out DPR, DC Public Library, and NPS.
Important Reminders
Office Hours in the Community
Ward 4 office hours are happening every Wednesday afternoon at Fort Stevens Rec Center from 12 to 1pm, followed by office hours at Hattie 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.
Share Reports of Federal Law Enforcement Incidents
Recently, my office launched an online reporting form for neighbors to report and document any concerning incidents involving federal agents. This information will be critical as we build our case, ensure organizations working on the ground are informed, and continue to hold this administration accountable. Please share the image with your social networks and neighbors to let others in the community know about this resource.
As our DC government works to keep our community safe, supported, and informed during this time, I also encourage neighbors to fill out my survey seeking input from residents to help shape how our office communicates around new federal developments.
Support for Federal Workers
As many in our community face unprecedented challenges, I’m grateful to everyone who is stepping up to support neighbors. The Office of the Mayor has rolled out fedsupport.dc.gov, sharing resources for federal workers who have been laid off or impacted by recent cuts. I also want to remind neighbors of resources on my website for federal workers impacted by recent actions and neighbors facing the threat of immigration enforcement, compiled with the help of Councilmember Nadeau. DC government and the DC Council are also hiring for a range of positions, and I encourage community members to take a look at the open positions and share with a neighbor.
Ward 4 in the News
Axios: Small Business Saturday events around D.C.
Next Stop…Riggs Park: November 24: ANC 4B Public Meeting (Virtual)
The 51st: 13 things to do around D.C. this weekend
The Washington Informer: Things to Do, DMV: Weekend Rundown, Nov. 20-23
PoPville: Today* in Hawks*** around Town – ANOTHER Bald Eagle
Ward 4 Dispatch: Metropolitan Branch Trail, DPR Pools Roundtable, and Apply for ERAP!
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.
On Tuesday, I had the pleasure of swearing in our newest Ward 4 Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, Tamira Benitez, representing 4B05! I have been lucky to witness Commissioner Benitez’s profound commitment to public service firsthand, and I’m thrilled to have her step up to serve our Brightwood and Manor Park communities.
I was also energized and inspired to be with Local Progress on Tuesday evening discussing what local leadership must look like in the face of rising authoritarianism. As a District, we know that the way we turn away from fascism is by showing up for our neighbors and building community power, block by block.
Have a safe and relaxing weekend, neighbors!
Yours in Community,
—Janeese
