Home Sweet Home

November 1, 2023


Updates from Adams Morgan

Click Here to see previous updates in our newsletter archive

Check ObviouslyDC.com for the latest in DC government funding and grant opportunities for businesses.


Be prepared. Visit to Ready.DC.gov for preparedness information for a

variety of hazards including manmade and natural disasters.

Adams Morgan Fall PorchFest is Saturday!

The bands and locations have been rebooked, and despite a few of each that weren't available for the new date, this will still be the biggest Adams Morgan PorchFest ever with nearly 80 bands at 20 locations. Our website has the up-to-date map and lineup as well as a list of wristband discounts for over 50 Adams Morgan businesses!

Adams Morgan PorchFest is officially a twice-a-year event with its return on Saturday, November 4 from 2pm - 6pm. DC's favorite music festival has grown in size and popularity every year and this fall we're really going big and will be closing 18th Street to vehicle traffic between Kalorama and Columbia Roads during the event! The road will be closed between 1pm and 7pm so please plan accordingly.

Plan to pick up your free wristband and map at one of our two HQ tents, either at the plaza on the corner of Columbia and Adams Mill Rds. or in front of our office at 2424 18th St. NW. You can also download an interactive verison of our event map to Google Maps on your smartphone and use that to guide you to all the music and businesses you don't want to miss.

New this year: PorchFest T-shirts at Neighborhood Retailers

In the past buying a PorchFest t-shirt was tricky. They were only available during the four hours of the event and only from the one tent where thousands of people were crowded to get their maps & wristbands. This year we've come up with a better plan -- we are partnering with neighborhood retailers Urban Dwell , Smash Records , Le Bustiere , and Ace Hardware , all of which have the shirts for sale right now for $20. This year's t-shirt was designed by Stefanie Contessoto of Tattoo Paradise .

If you're looking for t-shirts from Spring PorchFest this past May, we'll have those for sale for $10 each at our HQ tent on 18th Street during the event (some sizes may not be available).

This year's Apple Festival was amazing!

Thank you to all our contestants and judges for the 10th Annual Apple Pie Baking Contest at the 15th Annual Adams Morgan Apple Festival!

Sales of pie slices raised over $2,300 for Jubilee Jumpstart . Thank you everyone for your support and especially the volunteers who pitched in to help.

The 2023 winners:

  • Best Crust: Pie G – Anna Brunner
  • Best Filing: Pie G – Anna Brunner
  • Best Appearance: Pie D – Paige Schurr
  • Best Overall: Pie G – Anna Brunner
  • People’s Choice: Pie M – Maeve Day

And a big thank you to this year's pie judges:

Want to compete next year? The entry form should be live towards the end of September but keep an eye out for an announcement here and on our social media channels.

Adams Morgan Farmers Market on Saturday

Every Saturday through December

8:30am - 1:00pm

at Unity Park (Corner of Euclid St and Columbia Rd)


Celebrating more than 52 years serving the Adams Morgan community.

 FEATURING THIS WEEK low or pesticide-free:

Halloween pumpkins, napa cabbage, large apples by the pound (5 or more), (cooking and pesticide-free), stayman winesap, northern spy, honeycrisp, and 4 bean varieties:, enamame, green string beans, yellow wax beans, plus, fall greens, cabbage

(note: the above items are from last week and may not be accurate for this week's market)

 REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR OWN BAGS and CONTAINERS for fragile produce.


Pepco Open House

Saturday, November 4, 2023; 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.


Pepco will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, November 4,

2023 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. to share details about the

benefits of the multi-year rate plan as well as other programs we

currently have in place to reduce our carbon footprint, address

energy assistance, promote workforce development, and

enhance reliability service.

Pepco Edison Place Gallery

702 8th Street NW

R.S.V.P. for the event

Refreshments will be served

Click here to download a flyer with more information.


Washington Gas Community Engagement Listening Session - WARD 1

Monday, November 6; 6 - 8pm

Join Washington Gas for an exciting in-person event, the Washington Gas Community Engagement Listening Session! You are invited to share your thoughts, ideas, and concerns about their services and initiatives. This session will take place at Busboys and Poets (2021 14th Street Northwest). Your input is valued and they to hear directly from you! Come and be a part of this engaging conversation.

Register here


Adams Morgan in the News

Updates from RAMW

Police Chief Town Hall Monday

Just for RAMW members: Join us 2 pm Monday for an online town hall with Acting DC Police Chief Pamela Smith.

  • Meet the Chief: Smith, whose nomination is expected to be confirmed by DC Council, would be the first African-American woman to head the Metropolitan Police Department in its 230 year history.
  • On the Agenda: Public safety, countering gun violence, and continuing to build strong relationships between law enforcement and the hospitality community.
  • Be There: Register today and submit your concerns and questions now .

Culinary Grads for Hire

Congrats to the newest cohort of graduates from RAMW Allied Member Emma’s Torch , which provides culinary education for asylum seekers, refugees, and survivors of trafficking.

  • Meet Your Next Rock Star: Students graduate with their ServSafe food certification and more than 400 hours of training.
  • You’re Hired: Contact DMV Program Director Bridgit Nicholson and learn more in the attached PDF.

FTC Looks to Ban Service Fees

We’re watching this one closely with our national partners: The Federal Trade Commission is proposing major interventions into how restaurants and other businesses set prices.

  • What’s in the Proposal: Banning service fees and similar mandatory charges, several recommendations around tipping, and new pricing rules for third-party delivery services.
  • For Context: Policymakers are taking a keen interest in how fees are charged on everything from airlines, to concerts, to hotels.
  • Quote: “This proposed rule appears to be a scattershot plan that both attacks the restaurant business model and forces us to raise our prices,” said Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs at the National Restaurant Association.
  • Stay Tuned: More info to come about the proposed rules and how to make your voice heard.

Cocktail Week Deadline Nov. 10

Cocktail Week returns Nov. 28 to Dec. 5, and this yearyears coincides with the 90- year anniversary of the repeal of prohibition.

  • The Scoop: Participating restaurants offering a cocktail and bite pairing are featured in RAMW direct marketing and, social media promotions.
  • What to Know: Cocktail Week promotions touch more than 300,000 DMV diners. Register now.

Sign-Ups Still Open for RAMW Holidays Campaign

There’s nowhere else in the world like your restaurant, so make sure all the merrymakers know about your event spaces, specials, and catering with RAMW holiday offerings marketing.

  • What Is It? Social media posts and stories, boosted promo advertisements, e-blasts to more than 32,000 DMV diners, and more.
  • How Much? $250 includes advertising for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah, and New Year’s Eve/Day.
  • Learn More: Contact Keiristin to sign-up today.

Reminder: Streatery Permits Extended to Next Year

As we’ve shared earlier, District Department of Transportation officials have extended Streatery permits to Dec. 31, 2024.

  • Why? Permits were scheduled to expire in December, but the extra year gives more time to finalize Streatery rules and provide a transition period.
  • Should I Renew my Current Permit? No; however, operators should reprint their permit from TOPS and post with the new expiration date when available.

Educated Eats Fundraising Campaign

Support Educated Eats culinary education scholarships and hospitality training! Organize a fundraising meal at your restaurant between November 10, 2023 - December 10, 2023 to show your support for RAMW's Education Foundation. Choose a date for diners to dine at your restaurant, and give back a percentage of sales from those specific orders to RAMW's Education Foundation, Educated Eats . Register HERE


Health Insurance Alert: Open Enrollment is Now Open

Starting today, November 1, individuals and families seeking healthcare coverage can shop, compare and enroll in plans through their local insurance marketplace.  If you live in DC, visit DC Health Link , open enrollment is through January 31


Help Shape the City's Tax Code

Testify about proposals before the DC Tax Revision Commission

Every ten years, the DC Tax Revision Commission (TRC) submits recommendations to the DC Council about how to update and improve the DC tax code. Chaired by Tony Williams, the TRC includes FC2 Members Jodie McClean (EDENS), Rahsaan Bernard (Building Bridges Across the River) and Gregory McCarthy (Washington Nationals).


A lot has changed in the last ten years. Commercial real estate, which had long powered the city's tax base, is now struggling. The city's population had been increasing, but now appears to have stalled. Racial equity gaps aren't closing. Any tax code update looks to broaden the base and capture shifts in economic activity. But it can also be used as a tool to make the city a more attractive place to do business and live, as well as to tackle racial inequality.


The DC Tax Revision Commission is considering roughly 80 proposals, which you can find HERE , and will be submitting a final package of recommendations in coming months.


We encourage our members to weigh in on these proposals at the upcoming Town Hall on November 6, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at MLK Library . You can RSVP for the event HERE .


This is an opportunity for you to impact long-term tax policy. We hope you can participate. But if you are not able to attend, you can still submit comments for the record at the DC Tax Revision Commission website HERE .

Upcoming events from the DC Chamber of Commerce

2023 Chamber's Choice Awards & Gala

Presented in Partnership with Co-Chairs:

Valencia McClure, Tonya Vidal Kinlow and Henok Tesfaye

November 10, 6 - 11:30 PM

Washington Hilton Hotel, 1919 Connecticut Avenue Northwest,

Join the DC Chamber as they celebrate local trailblazers, being recognized with the Chamber’s Choice Awards, who have found solutions to issues in an innovative way! During this night to remember, be inspired by the impact these contributions have had on the businesses and neighborhoods around the District to make it a stronger, more cohesive community.

Learn More


Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA)'s Business Leaders Survey

This survey is for business leaders in the D.C region. The survey is intended to get a better understanding of how to deepen collaboration between the business community and biking advocacy community.


Next year, WABA aims to create shared goals and develop new ways to work together on sustainable transportation projects in our region with the business community.


The voices of business leaders play a vital role in shaping our transportation system for the better, and now is the time for transportation advocates to develop strong ties with the business community for the future of our transportation system and the economy.



Project Update For Your Area-Small Diameter Water Main Replacement Project

Week of October 30

Belmont Road NW, between Columbia Road NW and 18th Street NW

There are no construction activities scheduled for this week.

Week of November 6

Belmont Road NW, between Columbia Road NW and 18th Street NW

  • Monday, November 6 - Thursday, November 9
  • Next week, we will continue with hand delivery of our project information sheet to all customers on the project foot print at this location to ensure they have been duly informed about this project prior to the start of work.

Please keep in mind that these construction activities are highly dependent upon favorable weather conditions. Questions should be directed to Director of Community Affairs Emanuel D. Briggs, (202) 787-2003 or emanuel.briggs@dcwater.com 23

Capacity Building Support Opportunity for DC Nonprofits

Are you a DC nonprofit working in the community economic development field looking for capacity-building support to assist your organization around a specific project?

CNHED’s VISTA Strong Communities program is gearing up to select 10-12 host sites for our upcoming 2024 - 2025 AmeriCorps VISTA Program! The intent-to-apply form is now OPEN, and official applications will be available soon. Complete the form today to ensure you are the first to know when the application opens.


Submit Intent to Apply/Re-apply

Unlicensed Operator Open Application Period Guidance

The medical cannabis open application period for unlicensed operators to apply for a Cultivation Center, Internet Retailer or Retailer license opens at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 1 and closes at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, January 29, 2024. Applications submitted by any amount of time outside the specified open period will be rejected.


Applications may be submitted:

  • Online (Recommended) Applicants require a QuickBase account login to access the online application. Applicants may use their existing QuickBase account or create a new user account to access the application. There is no fee to create an account. Applications may be “pre-filled” with information and attachments uploaded but then submitted only when the open application period commences. Upon final submission, applicants will receive a confirmation notification of the date and time confirmation at the submitted business email. Click Here to request a new user account .
  • In-Person or By Mail Our office and mailing address is 2000 14th Street NW, Suite 102A South, Washington DC 20009. ABCA’s office hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. Applications and related documents are available at abca.dc.gov . Applications submitted in-person or by mail will be date and time-stamped upon receipt.
  • By Email Applications and all supporting documentation should be combined into one PDF file and emailed to ABCA.CannabisLicensing@dc.gov . Please note that file attachments that are approximately 10 megabytes or larger may not be successfully received based on the email client used to send the email. Documents should not be sent in multiple emails. Applications must be sent to this email address only to be confirmed as received by the Agency.

Application fees must be paid within one (1) business day following formal notification of application acceptance by ABCA.


Additional resources including applications, information session recordings, and fee schedule are available at abca.dc.gov.


Questions and requests for technical assistance should be directed to ABCA.CannabisLicensing@dc.gov .


SB Works Classes

Opening a Brick and Mortar Business

November 2, 1PM- Mess Hall Culinary Incubator


Are you a small business owner or culinary professional with dreams of opening your own restaurant or storefront? Wondering how to turn your vision into reality? From choosing the perfect location to budgeting, permitting, and construction management guidance, this course equips you with the tools to get from concept to storefront.


Led by experienced small business construction expert Sarah Steel, this class can help you save time, money, and frustration- hosted at SB Works partner location Mess Hall Culinary Incubator, 703 Edgewood St NE, Washington DC, on Thursday November 2nd at 1:00 PM. Register here today!



Creative Campaigns for Small Businesses

November 9, 2 PM, SB Works Offices


In today's competitive landscape, standing out is crucial. Want to know how to use minimal spend to maximize audience reach? Unlock the power of creative campaign tactics that differentiate your brand. "Creative Campaigning" is designed to take you outside-the-box, crafting innovative and effective marketing campaigns that leave a lasting impression. Start driving more traffic and generating leads that convert to return business.


Join Emily Hopkins of Ideate Success Marketing for this free workshop on Thursday November 9 at 2:00 PM at 2316 Rhode Island Ave NE. Registration required and space is limited. Sign up here!


Grant Opportunities

💸 Tory Burch Fellows Program

Amount: $5,000 + Mentoring Program

Deadline: November 2nd

The Tory Burch Foundation annually selects 50 women entrepreneurs to participate in a yearlong initiative aimed at growing their businesses. The program provides comprehensive resources, including digital education, a $5K business education grant, and access to 0% interest loans. Apply online

💸 DSLBD Business to Business Service Provider Grant

Amount: between $5,000.00 and $50,000.00

Deadline: November 21st @ 2pm EST

The multiple grant recipients will provide services to support other local businesses by offering business development courses, cohort management, and program marketing across several DSLBD programs such as Aspire to Entrepreneurship, Dream Pitch, Food Waste Innovation, and Just Cannabusiness.


The service areas include (details in RFA , Appendices B - J):

  1. Proposals for Storytelling and Videography Service Area
  2. Pitch Preparation and Pitch Coaching Service Area
  3. Cohort Management and Wrap-Around Support Service Area
  4. Pitch Day Onsite Event Management Service Area
  5. Pitch Micropayment Provider Service Area
  6. Business Classes and Workshops Service Area
  7. Non-Dilutive Capital Support for Regulated Cannabusiness Businesses
  8. Speakers Bureau Service Area
  9. Innovative Proposals for Services Non-Contemplated by this RFA

DSLBD intends to award grants in amounts between $5,000.00 and $50,000.00 from the $400,000.00 available for direct service provision grants. Go the Grant Overview page for more information and to apply.

💸 Small Business Digital Readiness Program

Amount: $10,000

Deadline: Rolling

This LISC Verizon program helps small business owners succeed in a digital world with a free online videos plus opportunities for expert coaching, peer networking, and other resources. Take only two courses and enter to win a $10K grant! Past registrants can also win, enter your account for details. Apply online

💸Funding for Latino-Owned Businesses

Are you interested in starting or expanding your business? Our team of business coaches can provide you with one-on-one advice and training to help you manage and grow your business. Apply online

💸 Commercial Property Acquisition Fund (DMPED)

The Commercial Property Acquisition Fund will provide eligible businesses with down payment assistance of up to $750,000 or 25% of the sale price, whichever is less, for the acquisition of commercial property in the District. This year, businesses will need to complete three mandatory sessions in order to apply for the Fund. OPEN now on a rolling basis until funds are expended. Learn more here .

💸 Amazon Black Business Accelerator

The Amazon Black Business Accelerator is dedicated to helping build sustainable equity and growth for Black entrepreneurs by enabling their success as sellers. More information .

💸 Wish Local Empowerment Program

Wish is dedicating a $2M dollar fund to give roughly 4,000 Wish Local small business grants for black-owned biz. The selected recipients will receive between $500 - $2000. This program will only be open to Black-owned stores to help promote equality and diversity. More information .


Small Business Resource Center

WeLove DC Business - DC Business Portal Workshop

Thursday, November 9, 2023; 10:00 am

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/63911


DLCP at Your Neighborhood Library - Short-Term Rental (AIRBNB) Ordinance

Tuesday, November 14, 2023; 6:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/63812


Webinar: Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking Coffee and Capital

Thursday, November 16, 2023; 10:00 am

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events/63750

SBRC One-On-One Call Session: Steps to Obtaining a Business License

Monday – Friday; By appointment between 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events


SBRC One-on-One Call Session: "Talk Business After Hours"

Wednesdays by appointment between 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events


Llamadatelefonica: 1:1 Pasos para obtenerunalicenciacomercial con la Sra. Herrera

Miercoles con cita de 12:00pm a 1:00pm

Registro: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events


Meet IN PERSON Monday - 1.1 Business Session

Mondays by appointment between 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Register: dlcpsbrc.ecenterdirect.com/events


Submit your events and specials!

List your Adams Morgan events and business specials on our webpage for free! Click here to go to the event submission form, fill it out completely, and click on "submit event." Event submissions are reviewed to ensure the events either take place within the Adams Morgan business district or are being put on by an Adams Morgan business, and once approved should appear on the website within 48 hours.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Sponsor one of our community events! Partner with our community while reaching some of the city's most desirable demographics. For details, contact Kristen Barden at 202-997-0783.

BOARD MEETINGS

The Board of Directors of the Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District meets on the second Tuesday of every month (except February, May, August, October, and December).

Meetings are currently being held online and begin at 5pm.

Our Annual Meeting is held in March. Contact Brian Barrie for information about attending board meetings.

Tag us on social media!

© Adams Morgan Partnership