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Inner-City Blues coming to Leigh Street
12/21/2007 8:09 AM by John M
A new “restaurant/lounge/bar nightclub with live music”, Inner-City Blues, is slated to open at 2306 East Leigh Street (next to Tricycle Gardens) early in 2008.
According to an email that is circulating:
- The zoning officer assigned to this property is Michelle Peters, 646-6354.
- At this time, the property has a pending application to “Reinstate Previous Use”. The previous use was a night club with a liquor license (which was revoked by the ABC board due to repeated violations.)
- Neighbors have observed property improvement going on inside the building, but there is no building permit open on the property.
- The property is zoned B2 which would allow a night club/restaurant/lounge, however they need 30 parking spaces according to Cheryl Taylor at Zoning & Permits.
Excited!
Whoo-hoo!
oh man, here we go with the parking spaces issue again. there is no room for 30 spaces to be created over there, unless they buy the vacant lot next door, which should be reserved for a home. doesn’t the city know this? i hope the owners don’t go through the same thing that Que Pasa went through. or we’ll see inner city blues in 2010.
there has definitely been some property improvement going on there. for several months, actually. not sure what kind of work is going on, though. could just be cosmetic, which may not require a permit?
i heard that the reason the earlier version of the club shut down was because they were taking food stamps for alcohol.
with the masonic lodge weekend parties and this new place, that area will be hopping!
Yay! Another music/alcohol joint within walking distance!
Wow, something people actually like. I thought this wouldnt stand a chance on this site. Especially with a name like ‘Inner City’
Nightclubs, but no condos…interesting.
I am for this if it doesn’t turn into a place that stays open ’til 4am along w/making a bunch of racket. If it closes around midnight and makes sure to respect the surrounding area I’m for it. If they turn into a true nightclub, we’ll have to shoo them off to the Bottom where several already exist.
They want to open at the beginning of 2008? If this is a new photo, I don’t see how they could make this building a respectable joint in such a short time.
C good luck with it being respectful to the neighborhood. It doesn’t sound like the owners have any indication of obeying the rules based on not having a building permit. If these new “owners” are any relation to the last owners (or run their business alike) the neighbors and the police are in for a rough time. Let’s hope the patrons of the old business don’t show up to the new.
The photo is from this morning.
We learned today that the business has a lease for required parking spaces with the Family Resource Center…this property is owned by the City of Richmond. Does anyone know what the final decision was for Que Pasa and it’s use of parking spaces behind EDI? I recall that Que Pasa was ultimately denied the use of the parking spaces. Is that still the case? If the city denied Que Pasa, how can they OK another business?
As far as I could tell from city records online, it is the same owners since 1989. It is also the same name that applied for the recent building permit. So, I expect it won’t be all that different than the last night club there.
Was the last one there called “Churchill Cafe & Lounge”?
Yes, it was “Church Hill Lounge” followed by “Sea-Food-R-Us.” They had their ABC licensed revoked after repeated violations including under-age service, after-hours operations, and suspected drug sales. The ABC records of the hearings would curl your hair. Lastly, the man who owned and operated Church Hill Lounge was eventually found guilty of food stamp fraud (a felony).
This is a message I received from a long-time Hill resident:
“After years of observation and the grateful forcible close down of the Rendevous at 27th and Broad and the purchase of that site by Bruce and Pat Tyler to what is now known as the Hill Cafe. We had drug dealing, prostitution and even a murder from this place. It was one of the things we worked the hardest on to remove to reduce crime in this area. I know how hard it is to get rid of an undesirable business once it is established. Residential neighborhoods have to be very careful of who is in operation. I suggest a feasibility study and deep concern from neighbors in the area.. I would check the criminal records of the persons purchasing the property, not just the owners. Dig deep! This may sound alarmist but it is best to be safe than sorry…”
If these are the same owners that had a business shut down for ABC violations, there’s no way they are getting an ABC license now. I suggest contacting the ABC to determine the agent who covers the area and expressing these concerns to him/her. They will be able to sniff out whether these owners are disreputable and act accordingly. Also, they will take other general neighborhood concerns into account, even if only unofficially.
If the owners get to the point of applying for an ABC license it is required that they post a notice in the Times-Dispatch so interested persons are made aware of the application and have the opportunity to lodge an objection. This happened one time in the neighborhood and when I lodged an objection the license was denied. The system does work, so let’s use it.
Gut check time folks. With Jumpin J’s closed across the street from the proposed Inner City Blues, do we really want to take 3 steps back in this neighborhood? Next week, on Dec. 26, pick up the phone and call the City Building Commissioner’s office and DEMAND a stop work order be placed on this place. They’ve outright lied to the zoning officer about not doing any work inside; and in their application for re-use stated “no construction would take place”. Everyone who lives within eyesight of this building has seen workers & materials going in and out over the past 6 months. These guys do not play by the rules, and only want to pimp our hood. Every cop and city worker will tell you, NOTHING gets done unless 50 people pick up the PHONE and bitch about it.
The front gate/chain link fence on the adjacent lot (2308 Jefferson Ave) has been removed. it’s the lot next to the Tricycle Garden. My neighbor says he thinks the guys at “InnerCityBlues” may want to use the lot for parking. The land is zoned b2 so it’s an allowed use. Any ideas on how we can stop this from getting paved-over?
ILLEGAL signage in public right of way. no applicaton for signage on file with city of richmond. also, entire first floor has been newly sheetrocked (over 800 sqft) which requires a building permit (never filed an application.) Everyone, please CALL ART DAHLBERG’S OFFICE, Bld. Commissioner, to shut this place down.
Considering the reputation of the owners, their past experience with the neighborhood, their inability to provide even basic cooperation with the authorities, and the general shoddiness of the place, it amazes me that anyone could support this business.
To those who would support this place on the basis of “diversity”, this is not going be like Republic Gardens in DC, folks (that would be welcome).
We are all in for major trouble if this place opens. The closing of Je’s and the concurrent opening of a shady nightclub is ground zero for the ultimate question of what this neighborhood wants to be. If this place can open and operate within the law then so be it, but the obvious disregard for the neighbors and the authorities should be everyone’s warning number 1.
We’re all going to be on the police blotter a lot more than we already are if this place gets open under its current track record.
Do we want more places to walk and get a beer? Yes. But, everyone needs to ask themselves now: Do we want a shady nightclub?
UH Neighbor, post #20 – well put. I remember clearly when that area was nothing but shady convenience stores, and it really was not all that long ago. Until this past June, I lived within two blocks of the address in question, and I have a lot of friends who live well within walking distance.
I did as Pixie asked (sort of) – I called the city zoning person listed in John’s first comments here. I spoke to Michelle Peters, and she said she’d already heard from a lot of neighbors “particularly folks who live just to the north of the address.” She also mentioned that she’d received quite a few pictures of the subject property. She added that they DID APPLY for a building permit – however it has NOT been approved yet, is still going through the process. She also told me that the person who used to own the place is now deceased, and while the name is still showing up on the city’s property search it actually now belongs to whoever inherited the place. (If the family inherited and has the same disregard for zoning, building permits, ABC, etc. etc., then you guys are really in for a rough time).
I then called the ABC people – they have a toll free number. However, by the time I called it was nearly 5 p.m. and, while I did originally speak to a real live person, she then put me through to the man who is in charge of enforcement for this area and I got voice mail. I left a message, but you folks might want to call too – I keep wondering, if the pending application to city to “Reinstate Previous Use†also includes an ABC permit. Noone except Bill Hartsock has mentioned it but that includes a public comment period, and if they continue to flaunt the rules, perhaps these folks intend to open whether they’ve got ABC permission or not.
Anyway, apparently this has gotten the attention of the city to a point that Michelle Peters is aware of it – perhaps you guys who live close by should also call the ABC people and lodge some complaints, and find out who (if anyone) has applied for a booze license. I’d really hate to see that area return to the way it was not too long ago. I’ll do what I can, and good luck to everyone who lives closer to the subject address. Cheers.
Celeste, “I remember clearly when that area was nothing but shady convenience stores” well, we still have the infamous Family Supermarket. The 600 block of 24th is constantly strewn with litter of the paper and human variety. Come buy your drugs on the corner of 24th & Jefferson anytime: the management at the Fam Spmkt will happily welcome you and gladly make change for your deal. Our ABC officer Anthony Jimenez actually took management to a hearing because an agent found DRUGS HIDDEN ON A STORE SHELF in Spring of ’07. ABC was unable to prosecute or revoke ABC license because store manager Moose said “I dunno who’s drugs those are, I didn’t put em there.”
City DPW also can’t force them to screen their trash cans either. Life frequently sucks at the corner of 24th and Jefferson thanks to our “shady convenient store” and it’s nasty habits.
Oh, and I forgot we have our resident hooker available at the entrance of the Family Supermarket, too. She happily pushes drugs and her body to those who show interest.
Celeste, thank you for contacting the city and ABC about the pending applicant at 2306 E. Leigh, just one block from the Family Supermarket…we need all the help we can get to save Union Hill and keep us on the upswing.
Elaine, no problem. I finally talked to someone at ABC, and he checked their records – no ABC permit has been applied for at all for that address. He said he’d send someone over to take a look at it soon, and I told him that when (if?) it actually opened I’d call him back.
He did make another point that is worth repeating here – neighborhood input prior to something opening, at the permit process hearing, is really important – it’s easier to get stipulations in then than it is after an establishment is open.
I was in the Family Supermarket once last spring, but with a large, strong young male neighbor. It didn’t impress me much. Good luck with getting it cleaned up.
All the neighbors need to take this opportunity to let ABC, the City and these neighborhood businesses know that the residents of Church Hill and Union Hill, whether they’ve lived here 50 years or 50 days, do not deserve to live among businesses that promote illegal behaviors.
That awning may as well read: “Stand in Line Here for Your Free Stabbings.” This just can’t happen.
Interestingly, “Inner City Blues” was the third and final single from Marvin Gaye’s 1971 landmark album, What’s Going On. Written by Gaye and James Nyx, the song depicted the ghettos of inner-city America as it discussed how the bleak situation would lead to someone wanting to holler and throw ones hands up.
AWESOME. What a great advertisement for the neighborhood. This is clearly an error in judgment.
John, I have the floor plans which were submitted with the application for “use as a restaurant.” Would you like the JPGS to share here on CHPN? The second floor shows a 650ft dance floor with a DJ booth.
Today, concerned neighbors asked Art Dahlberg to address the apparent discrepancy between the second floor bar/disco and the described use as a restaurant.
Also, Mr. Dahlberg said their application (which as not been approved) very clearly states “No Construction” on the premises and is signed by the applicant, a Mr. Lamont Hawkins, Sr.
Large versions of both 1st & 2nd floor plans are in the flickr pool.
Matt C, in post #26, you said “This is clearly an error in judgment.” Who’s judgement? The business owners? I hear the management doesn’t even live in our neighborhood (rather a Henrico suburb.) Why should we expect them to spoil their own bucolic scene when they can ruin our fragile community and put some change in their pockets?
It’s obvious that all they want to do is come to Union Hill and make some easy money. They probably wouldn’t want this niteclub, or as they call it on the street, “Jazz Lounge”, in his neighborhood (even if his zoning would allow it).
Since when did a jazz lounge have a big dance floor and a DJ booth? I don’t recall that at the Village Vangard or Blue Note in NYC. The owners probably look around at Jefferson Avenue and say, “Hey, this place is one step from the ghetto, so why not go for it. The cops can’t keep the drug traffic off the street, we got two abandoned commercial buildings on our block, so why would care what we do up here?”
You all are so judgemental. I understand that you will like to keep as much crime out of your neighbor as possible, but everyone deserves a chance. These people are not the previous owners and they deserve a chance as any other person would. It seems as if they they are minoritiesand this means they must be trouble and that is not always the case.
You people are sitting back going on the past. You havent even given these new owners the benefit of the doubt. How dare you judge based on the past? This is going to be a nice upscale restaurant. Everything opened and managed by blacks don’t neccessarily have to be ghetto fabulous. I’m sick of everytime someone tries to bring something nice to the not so fabulous sides of town you assholes try to find a way to get it shut down before it even opens. Did anybody try and stop the shit across the street? Hell No!!! You people need to find something valuable to do with your time other than trying to knock positive people from trying to make a living. I see if we were trying to put a night club here or a strip club its a fucking retaurant. Come on people be real!!!
I say let’s give it a try. What’s the harm? Everybody deserves a chance and if I’m hearing things correctly, it is (name removed per request) seems to be the problem in the neighborhood. She has caused a lot of unneccessary issues amongst the neighbors. If we’re voted to get something out of the neighborhood lets start with her!!! But as far as the restaurant I say let’s go for it!!
Finally!!! I say YES!! A nice dine-in restaurant would be nice.
I don’t think anybody in the area would be opposed to a business that abides by the established rules in the city (i.e. permits, zoning compliance, adherence to code, compliance to Old & Historic guidelines, etc.)
KC, Dee Dee, Kiesha, and Sierra:
Are you saying that the people opening this establishment are above the law? Is it O.K. for them to do structural work on the building without permits? Is it O.K. for them to serve liquor without an ABC license?
How is this racial? Who knew the race of the proprietors?
Elaine Odell is fine woman and we are all lucky to have her be our neighbor. She is one of the reasons Church/Union Hill is such a great place to live.
No she is the reason why there is so much amninosity in the area now. We all know its her starting all the confusion. I know first hand what’s going on and alot of the info being said here is so untrue. The work being done is legal and liquor will not be served without a license. She came in making a problem for this establishment before things even got going on good. And not all neighbors are happy to have her around. Alot of the neighbors are the ones that warned us about her prior to us coming in contact with us first hand. Folks are digging for shit and not finding the negatives therefore they are putting shit in the game. We don’t care about the negative impact that this building had prior to us coming aboard, we are only interesting in making a difference. Yes its racial to an extend look at the comments made. Elaine seems to have a problem with anyone that may come into the area. She harrassed people that goes in the damn store. She needs a life!!!! There may be people that like her in the area but the majority wants her out. No comments were made about the other establishments right in the same area.
This isn’t about Elaine and never has been.
There are 36 comments on this post and the majority of them are very concerned about this establishment – with or without Elaine’s input.
Tell us all in detail about how the proprietors are complying with code, permits and the ABC.
All you’ve done is pull the race card and defame a very good neighbor.
Come on, you can, or should know, that you can do better than that.
The business owners have to take much of the responsibility for the critical reaction from some members of the neighborhood. They have not reached out to the community to seek support for their venture and to clarify their intentions. The neighborhood has concerns about any new business, especially at a location that has historically had problems. The owners should have been sensitive to these issues and done everything they could to give the neighbors accurate information about their plans for the building and business, and to seek support for their venture. From a business perspective and an neighborhood perspective, it is just the right thing to do.
If this business is going to be successful at this location, it is going to require community support every step of the way. To ignore the community will surely result in additional scrutiny, delays in acquiring necessary permits and licenses, and result in additional financial burden to the owners.
It is not fair to blame people who live here for their concerns about their neighborhood. People want information about changes to their neighborhood. Many folks have their life savings invested in their homes and have worked to improve the neighborhood. The business owners have failed to anticipate the community’s reaction, and that is not good planning on their part.
People who oppose the establishment of Inner City Blues have stated many reasons for opposing the business, but it is difficult to tell if the reasons are legitimate, because the business has not reached out to the community to make their case.
Dee-Dee and Keisha, you might not realize that just a few short years ago, the entire area north of Jefferson Avenue in Union Hill was an open air drug market. I’m not exaggerating. Ask anyone who lived on the 600 or 700 block of N. 23rd Street prior to 2007. Or near the corner of Leigh and 22nd. The 600 block of N. 24th remains a drug scene. Just last month, a home at the corner of N.24th and M was busted by VA State Police for interstate drug trafficking.
The residents in the immediate area around 2306 E. Leigh have fought long and hard to rid their streets of drug dealers who operated in broad daylight. Some neighbors have had to confront participants involved in illegal activity. Hopefully this explains why the current law-abiding residents are fighting so hard to find out what kind of business wants to be established at 2306 E. Leigh. There are no permits posted, no explanation of what the business owners want to do. So we are left guessing.
If you know the business owners (or if you are personally involved in the business, it’s a little unclear from your posts,) please come forth to the homeowners in the community and talk to us about what you want to do.
The floor plans (posted on chpn) show a large dance floor, a dj box and a bar on the 2nd floor. Doesn’t this show that Inner City Blues wants to be something more/different than a restaurant? The management is sending mixed signals to the community. No wonder we’re skeptics.
Owners of Inner City Blues: does your failure to apply for a permit to “Encroach Upon the Public Right of Way” constitute “bringing something good to our community?” Commercial signage must be approved by the city zoning office (for square footage compliance with street frontage) BEFORE it goes up.
Your new awning with signage extends from the front of the building across the sidewalk and is supported by steel poles which are drilled into the city sidewalk, i.e. a structure built on city property.
All this was done without a permit or even an application for one. Were you thinking the city and community would ignore your attempt to do an end-run around the procedures to which all other business must comply?
Ok don’t get me wrong I understand the concerns and its not true that we haven’t reached out to the community because we have. Alot of neighbors have been by supporting this establishment. It doesn’t matter though because we were given a bad name before we even got started. Drug trafficking can be seen anywhere these days and its not a damn thing we can do about it. Well Elaine may think differently being as though she’s the one that keeps calling the police to the area, and ask her how much has changed. She still see’s the same shit everyday and that’s what she needs to realize she can’t control everybody. What people choose to do with their lives is their problem. I understand the concerns and respect all opinions but we haven’t even been given a chance. To whomever said their was structural work being done they’re liars. Whatever work is being done is being done legally !! Bill I respect you for your opinion because you made some valid points however it is a way to go about doing things. We didnt know that if we didn’t come and talk to “Queen Elaine” first about our intentions for the building that we would have to go through so much b.s. She is the only one that has confronted us making a scene. So if all these opposers aren’t just peons of hers come by and speak up. She has caused the negative energy amongst the neighborhood and its not right. Everybody else that has come to us has been positive even if they didn’t agree. They stated their concerns and they were addressed and heard, not ignored.
And yes I have been a witness to alot of things. I’ve lived in the Churchill area for 27 years, so the things you(pixie) are describing to me is nothing new. That still shouldn’t give anyone the right to knock us for what we’re trying to bring to the neighborhood. That’s another thing,we are aware of all these issues so why aren’t we given a pat on the back for even attempted to bring an establishment of such to the area. We could be at risk but we’re taking a chance because we’re trying to make a difference. You can’t see change unless you attempt to do something positive about it yourself.
So what if there is a large dancefloor, a dj box, and a 2nd bar. That doesn’t say drugs and violence. To me that says FUN!! If you went to a wedding reception wouldn’t you want to dance. If you were going through some things and wanted to go somewhere nice and enjoy some time to yourself wouldn’t you just want to sit and have a drink. Come on people, you all are quick to judge people and not know the facts.
We have no problem reaching out to the community again!!! But if we’re going to continue to be addressed and harrassed by Elaine the way that we have then there is no need.
We are simply trying to bring an upscale restaurant and lounge to the area. We are not looking to bring anymore problems and issues. Simply a place where you can relax and enjoy yourself. All we’re asking for is a chance. If we don’t operate correctly then I’m sure the city will handle things we don’t need the extra negatives on us before we even get started.
If it true that construction permits have not been approved by the City, how can the interior construction that has been completed so far be legal?
Laura Daab, does the exterior awning recently installed meet the guideline established for an O&H? Or is that area not considered CHNorth? Would CAR have had to approve that prior to install? The supports encroach on a public right-of-way.
These are all items that the rest of the property owners in the City have to contend with… Why should anyone else be exempt?
Dee-Dee, did the STOP WORK ORDER get lifted at 2306 E. Leigh? It was posted as of late yesterday/Friday afternoon. Did an inspector come out this morning and clear everything up? Must have, cause folks are over working busy as bees at Inner City Blues this morning.
Dee-Dee, Bashing Elaine isn’t the answer. She seems to have valid concerns. Loud DJ music, thumping bands,and alcohol with large gatherings of people doesn’t seem to be the appropriate use for a neighborhood that is trying to re gentrify itself.
william:
No, Inner City Blues building is not in the CHN O&H. However, that IS a structural addition/change (are you hearing this Dee Dee?) to the property and would require a permit from the city, and pass the basic zoning ordinances in place. Obviously, a permit has not been issued and the owners just put up the awning without it.
DeeDee – When have the business owners reached out to the community? Have they spoken to anyone who lives in the houses that are adjacent to this building? I live practically right next door and no-one from this business has reached out to me! I am not opposed to a restaurant; as a matter of fact I would love for that building not to be vacant. However, the description of this proposed establishment has been vague at best. First, it is a nice dine-in restaurant, then when someone pointed out the fact that you have a large bar, dance floor and DJ booth you back peddled and said “loungeâ€. On the building permit it states the use is to be Restaurant/Catering….So which is it? A stop work order has been placed and yet there is working going on right now. It seems to me that the business owners are not being forthcoming about what is being done. You want the neighborhood to trust the proprietors of this business, yet where is the honesty? Nothing seems to be going through the proper channels. Can you understand my concern? Maybe some pertinent questions can be answered!
1. What will the hours of this business be?
2. When is the proposed business planning to open?
3. What exactly is this business going to be? Restaurant, Bar, Nightclub or all of the above?
4. What type of menu will be served…full dinners or bar food?
The neighborhood has changed it is more residential than ever. Therefore I hope you understand my reservations regarding this business in my backyard.
To Capital Gal and mlwr: was the stop work order posted outside? When I drove by about 2:45 or so this afternoon, there was nothing posted. I saw some people I knew, and we stopped to talk and really looked for it, but there was nothing posted.
if there is actually an application at ABC for a license, all it takes to get a hearing is one ‘objection’ letter to ABC.
Ann, there was no application as of Thursday Dec. 27 (two days ago).
Celeste, the Stop Work Order was posted (seen on the front door by a neighbor of mine when he came home for lunch.) It was removed sometime during the afternoon. The building commissioner confirmed about 5pm yesterday that the Stop Work Order was still in effect, regardless of whether the paper posting was still in place or not. It’s kind of like tearing up a parking ticket; it’s still in the computer system, and you still have to deal with it. It is possible a city inspector visited the site today and lifted the order, but those guys usually don’t work on Saturdays.
Capital Gal, I seriously doubt that the city went by today – for them to pull it would have meant that they’d actually issued a building permit, and if they hadn’t done that by 5 p.m. yesterday then they surely didn’t do it today!
I like your analogy to a parking ticket -that’s most likely what happened. Thanks for the quick response.
there’s a fairly hefty fee to pay to have a stop work order removed…and that must be done before a permit can/will be issued.
celeste, in anticipation of an application being filed with ABC, a letter to the board with a copy to agent jiminez stating opposition to issuance of such license and requesting to be notified when/if an application is filed…will at least keep you in the loop. it’s an interesting process i went thru a couple of years back with a store in union hill. be glad to share files.
Ann I think I’m a bit far removed to be doing that letter, I live a good nine or ten blocks away. I’d be glad to write it if I could state I’d be directly impacted. Why don’t you and/or some of the other concerned folks who live nearby file that letter? Sounds like a good idea.
elaine, thanks for all the work you’ve done to bring this situation to the attention of union hill residents.
Ann and Celeste, the folks in the immediate vicinity certainly will address the ABC should the management of Inner City Blues apply for a license to serve.
But we might not have to oppose the issuance of the license.
If the management of Inner City Blues would just level with the community about what they want to do, and who they are, we might learn that they’re really OK folks, who just goofed up on city hall procedures.
UnionHill RVA, what constitutes ‘immediate vicinity’? One block, two blocks, three blocks?
“Immediate vicinity” Ann, that’s good question…I could be wrong about this, but I would guess the ABC board would pay the most attention to folks who live (actually own homes and live in them) within a 3 or 4 block radius.
But of course, we all have different ideas of where the boundaries of our neighborhoods lie.
…a 3 or 4 block radius would include me. so i guess i can still worry some.
Jim and I went for a walk today and happened to bump into Celeste and a few other neighbors. We chatted outside Inner City Blues for several minutes. Celeste left and shortly after, Dewon (sp?), the proprietor came out to talk to us.
We spoke for quite a while. He was very personable and willing to talk about his plans for his business. Dewon has agreed to come to a CHA membership meeting and speak to the public about his business. He also asked us to spread the word that anyone can stop by and knock on the door or ring the door bell and he would be happy to show you around and talk to you about the project.
He admits that he and his partners are new at this and may not have followed procedures on certain things and that they are more than willing to work with the community and the city to make things right.
He said the awning was put up by the company he ordered it from without his approval/him being present, hence being put up without a permit. It was a screw up. He says that it will come down until he works out the details with the city, and when/if they allow him to reinstall it.
He told us that soul food will be served breakfast, lunch and dinner. They will also have jazz and blues acts performing there. They are also enforcing a dress code.
Dewon seemed very sincere about wanting to make all this right with the community. He wants to contribute, not bring in trouble. He’s upset about the misunderstandings in the neighborhood.
I encourage all concerned to stop over and chat with Dewon and his partners.
We’ll keep you posted about when he’ll meet with the CHA – probably February, since the CHA agenda for Jan. is jam- packed and action-packed.
Laura, is it possible you misunderstood Dewon’s account of the sign/awning installation?
See John’s photograph on post #18 12/27/08 above.
That’s Dewon in the white hat (he’s wearing a white NY Yankees ball cap)standing to the immediate right of the awning. And that’s me in he brown hat to the right of Dewon, with my right arm raised.
The awning was being installed at the time John made this photograph. See the worker on the ladder below the awning, and the compressor on the sidewalk to the left. The man walking in the street to the left of the awning was the other worker, who was heading back to the truck for another tool.
Dewon and I were discussing the need for a permit as we watched the 2 workers install the awning.
Any chance you misunderstood his recollection of the awning installation?
I would LOVE to hear DeeDee’s explanation for this one! So much for sincerity.
Laura, You said “Dewon came out and talked to us”. So, you witnessed a violation of the Stop Work Order, which means no one is to be in the building.
Good thing you and Jim didn’t follow him inside for a look around. Anyone inside the building now is in violation of an order by the City Building Commissioner. Just because someone tore town the posting doesn’t mean the Stop Work Order has been lifted.
Very simply, the new proprietors just need to follow the same rules John Sanchez and Je Depew had to follow to get their places open. These are also the same rules every other commercial business in the city of Richmond has to follow. Yes, it takes time to file the applications and wait for a response from the appropriate person(s) in city hall.
Those ordinances and regulations are there for a reason: TO PROTECT THE COMMUNITY AT LARGE (i.e., quality of life) AND THE PERSONAL SAFETY OF THE CITIZENS OF RICHMOND.
Claiming ignorance isn’t a valid excuse for violations of city ordinances. The trials and tribulations of small business owners and the procedures they have to follow before they open (even if we consider the procedures arcane at times) are well documented in the media.
Heck, why didn’t the proprietors just talk to Je Depew or John Sanchez? They’re always willing to talk openly about their experiences with the permits and inspections.
All this “misunderstanding” and “regret” was so avoidable. Arrogance and a gross disregard for legal procedures and city code is inexcusable.
Hi everyone. I was just checking out some of the blogs on this website concerning the Church Hill area of Richmond. I had to take a look at the one involving Inner City Blues just because it was one of two that had the so many responses. I first I would like to say that I am not from this area, nor do I live in this area or operate any type of commercial dealings in this area. I am reading these blogs from a total unbiased view.
Many of the blogs that I have read on here concerning Inner City Blues all seem to have some type of strange undertone. There are a few bloggers here that have made some valid points about this new potential establishment, as well as the format in which the new business owners are attempting to get the business up and running. For these folks it’s easy to tell that there have genuine concerns on how this new establishment will impact there business as well as the community in which it operates. There are other bloggers on here that seem like they are willing to chime in on the “LET’S KEEP EM OUT!†bandwagon for no reason. I have seen comments on here that are just outright jabs at the establishment as well as the new owners that did not seem fair.
I can only imagine how rough of a time most of the current business owners had making it into this area as well. Not sure how long most of the establishments have been around and owned by the current owners, but I’m not sure I care to check either. I don’t think that should have any merit on how a new business is welcomed in that area.
I even heard people on here advising others to check out the owner’s background, as well any documents that might be affiliated with this new establishment and its standing with the city. There have been specific reports of surveillance of Inner City Blues and reports on permits and stop work orders. How does anyone get anything else done around there?
This is a little harsh. Someone should give them a chance!
Jim and I are just saying that we went and talked to the proprietors. As far as I know, no one but Elaine has done so. Don’t kill the messengers.
Yes, it’s possible that we were lied to, and it sucks if that’s the case. I guess time will tell on that account.
I am with all of you who will stay involved to make sure that this establishment is a good contribution. And yes, I agree with Capital Gal 100% about accountability without exception.
I’m just saying, take the risk people!
Go talk to the guy. Ask him the hard questions. You may not get the answers you want, but hey, find out for yourself first hand. Stop hiding behind blog sites annoymously! I’m all for commenting on this site and do so frequently, but so many folks up here don’t do anything more than that. And yes, some of you do more than that.
We’ve all got to get out into the community person to person.
Last night, Jim and I went to a party/fundraiser for the Church Hill Dog Park. It was very well attended and most of the folks there were in their twenties and thirties. It’s great to see so many young people moving into the neighborhood and picking up the volunteer torch from all of us old timers. These folks are physically out in the community doing something really positive.
Would it kill any of you to take the first step and go over and talk to Dewon? For better or worse, isn’t that what community is all about?
Elaine did it, and yeah, she’s taking all the heat. Why don’t the rest of you stick your necks out for a change, take a stand and identify yourselves on some issues of substance.
It’s really easy to come on here in the shadows and bitch other people out for what they do.
I am fully aware of all of the procedures involved here. Are they in violation? Yes. Have they screwed up? Yes.
Don’t preach to me about it. Go tell HIM. Have some balls people.
Dear Just Passing By…Union Hill and Church Hill North have become nice places to live AND work because a few brave folks stuck their necks out several years ago and renovated houses, planted trees, repaired sidewalks, picked up trash in the alleys, streets and parks, and sucessully fought the drug dealers and prostitutes.
All of the above activities are still continuing today. Have YOU ever lived in a “transitioning neighborhood” and had to deal with blight and crime first hand?
Union Hill is becoming a desirable neighborhood simply because residnents DO pay attention to what’s going on in their community and make positive things happen instead of sitting back, ignoring issues and waiting for the city to “do something about it.”
We’re a proactive community and that’s why its a place people want to live now (we had the higest vacancy rate in Richmond just a few short years ago.)
Come up and see the neighborhood for yourself. Walk along our streets, talk to the residents who LIVE HERE and we’ll welcome you to our ‘hood.
I think “Just Passing By’s” viewpoint is incredibly naive. Although JPB did mention that they have no “experience” in this neck of the woods, the folks who have been here know all too well how a business that has a complete disregard for the law can negatively impact a neighborhood. Just because somebody invests in a property does not give them the absolute right to change the “quality of life” for the surrounding neighbors. I can understand the concern that the neighors have expressed on this site. Many of them have already taken a huge financial risk investing in a marginal neiborhood to begin with. All they need is one business to reverse the trend they have established. When it comes down to money and property values, these folks ought to be hopping mad at the way these folks are handling this matter. It seems as though they have already been fairly untruthful about their activities and intentions. It’s pretty easy to claim ignorance of the law after the fact–however, the neighbors don’t need to accept their lack of accountability. Who is the owner of this property? Ralph Jackson, as listed in property records, has been dead for almost 4 years now. I am appalled that someone would suggest these folks should be given a pass to disregard anyone else’s interest in the area. Unless these folks start getting honest with the neighborhood and following the established playbook, they should be met with opposition every step of the way. There is no need for the neighborhood to have heart to heart meetings with this business person. The only visits that should be made are to the zoning and permit and business license offices in City Hall. There is a process to follow. If you decide to buck the system, it will buck back a little harder. All of these offices are here for a reason…to support the larger community. We have paid advocates in City Hall–use them!
I totally disagree with william. For better or worse, the community and developers/business owners should always attempt a dialog with each other and some sort of meeting. That’s how great communities stay great.
Well Laura…we will agree to disagree. If these characters followed the established process, there would have been public notice and plenty of dialog (initiated with the process). These folks have clearly tried to circumvent this process and move ahead with complete disregard for the neighborhood at large.
You can see from your own encounter with these folks that you were looked squarely in the face and lied to. That says a great deal about the character of this business-owner. The power should be left with those who can enforce and hold accountable those who choose to ignore the law. Great communities stay great by holding citizens accountable for violating the rules of the game. Action without accountability is useless.
If Dee-Dee is part of the ownership of this establishment, her violent tone doesn’t respond to any of the legitimate questions the neighborhood has whether she is addressing the neighbors or City Hall.
Based on the facts, everyone’s reactions – especially Elane’s – are perfectly justified.
It is the responsibility of the owners to reach out to then neighborhood, not vice-versa. If there are misconceptions, then owners should judiciously address them. Dee-Dee’s attacks only validate the negative perceptions many of us have of this establishment.
We all aren’t as socially brave as Elaine and Laura. Deferring to the authorities and to our community leaders is something we should be able to do – that’s why those entities exist.
That said, if the owners come forward, you can bet a lot of ears will listen.
Busted. CaughtOnCamera.
Yes, William, I agree with you, but why doesn’t anyone want to interact with these folks?
The city can hold them accountable, but in the end, if Inner City Blues comes to fruition, they are part of our community and we need to have a relationship with them. So far, it seems that no one except Elaine and Jim and I have even bothered to talk to the proprietors.
Sure, the city needs to be the enforcer, but we are the heart and soul of the neighborhood, not a bunch of faceless bureaucrats. A conversation with Dewon & Co is the start of a dialog and a relationship.
I’m not defending any bad actions that have taken place, but he has welcomed the community to come over and speak to him on site. O.K., speak to him outside because of the SWO, but accept his invitation.
Please don’t misinterpret what I have said. I don’t harbor any animosity or ill-will for this business or any other business that opens in this area. I don’t get the sense from the other posts that anyone here wants to keep this business out of the area. I think all would welcome it if the investors would clearly define their mission and negotiate some ground rules with the neighboring properties and follow the permit and zoning regulations that exist for the good of all. Many folks are working hard to come up with ways to make business development in this area a success. Most would welcome a successful, law-abiding, and respectful enterprise setting up shop in this neighborhood. It is beneficial to us all to have another contributor to the tax base and a provider of jobs at minimum. Successful business development by one will help forge the path for those to come in the future. I think where my comments were misinterpreted is: “The only visits that should be made are to the zoning and permit and business license offices in City Hall. There is a process to follow.” This was meant as the investors are the ones that should be making the trips to City Hall to follow the process. That, in turn, will lead to the proper public discourse.
Since this scenario did not play out as described, it really raised some well-deserved concern from the neighborhood. Trust me, if the proper permits are granted by the City and the process is followed as intended (by the investors) they will be welcomed with open arms by most. I think the folks are just asking this group to play by the rules. It has absolutely nothing to do with race so I wish folks would just stop playing that card. Nobody really cares if they are Green….just abide by the law and respect your neighbors.
If someone always judged you by your past you’d never get ahead. Instead of snitching about everything wrong someone is doing wrong has anyone ever considered offering some help or advice in a postive manner. One of the many posters said if this establishment gets up and running properly you’d have to deal with it anyway. By speaking to your future business neighbor you could offer suggestions on what the community would like to have for entertainment and even the menu. I know it’s hardly anything nearby to eat/or drink when you want a quick pick me up. There are establishments like this all over Carytown why can’t it work in Church Hill/ Oregon Hill??
“An Old Friend of The Area”, do you live up here, now? Do you live in the home you own in Union Hill? Or do you live elsewhere now?
Residents ARE talking to the management of Inner City Blues. But management doesn’t want to budge on is the live music/dance floor/night club aspect of the business.
Restaurant, yes! Live music/dj/dancefloor, NO!
Inner City Blues could be a really good money maker for this group…and we all know the highest profit margin is in the LIQUOR SALES provided to the folks who come to listen to music.
The menu for “soul food” is not a matter of contention for this neighborhood. And the same handful of folks who helped supplement Je’s beyond-the-neighborhood-customer-base will be happy to eat a meal there.
But, it’s a lot easier to meet the building’s 89 person occupancy limit if you keep the currently proposed floor plan of 600+sqft dance floor, 2 bars w/bar stools (and no tables for diners).
Oh, and if they book an act that’s really hot, we’ll have 40-80 additional parked cars up here on Jefferson Avenue.
Ever stood outside Capital Ale house when the last set is over and the patrons are leaving? They’re understandably happy, boisterous, and tipsy. I know cause I’ve been one of em. But that’s 7th and Main, with no neighbors to wake.
Oh, yeah, @ CapAleHse, they serve food …but what really makes it profitable? The ALCOHOL sold to folks who sit/stand at the bar, or listen to live music.
If Inner City Blues is so set on live music/dance floor then why does this business HAVE to be located in Union Hill, a residential neighborhood?
If their dream is to open a “Jazz Lounge” then why don’t they find another less-residential location? If an economically depressed neighborhood is their criteria, then why not one of the abandoned store fronts in the shopping centers along Mechanicsville Tnpk, 9 Mile or Richmond Road?
We can see why ICB want’s this location at 2306 E. Leigh:
-minimal investment is required in the building because it’s already tricked out for a 2nd floor bar/disco.
-It’s already fully sprinkled and meets building code for a nightclub.
-rent at 2306 E. Leigh is undoubtedly cheaper than Richmond’s other entertainment districts (Bottom,Slip,Canal).
-finding a parking space on Leigh and Jefferson is a hellva lot easier than the Bottom or Shockoe Slip…but only if the Masonic Lodge on 25th St. isn’t having a function.
-Jeff Ave/E.Leigh is easy to get to from eastern Henrico via I64 (with no tolls).
ICB could be a great soul food restaurant; with 2 floors of tables (maybe one smoking and the other non smoking). Recorded jazz swinging in the background while we dine would be delightful. Who knows, we could have the next Sylvia’s right here in Union/Church Hill.
Just please leave the live music/dance floor out of the mix.
post #75 says “There are establishments like this all over Carytown…”
Why do you say that? The only bar/restaurant in Carytown I know of that has live music & a dance floor is Babe’s (and people don’t go there for the food.)
Are you suggesting Inner City Blues will be like Babe’s? They do cater to a minority (homosexual) population, which is fine. But the place is a dump! (sorry, Babes, tho I do love the the dance floor when the right dj is spinning.)
The staff at Babes (gay and straight) is professional & courteous. But would YOU want to live next door, or around the corner from it?
Pixie – actually Biff used to love the breakfasts at Babe’s when he still had his bookstore….but I will concede that he’s the only person who’s told me they liked the food there LOL!
Union Hill RVA – actually, it may be tricked out BUT the building code requirements for a dance floor are pretty stringent and require a certain load bearing limit. I talked to an architect who said he couldn’t remember exactly without looking it up, but it’s something like 100 lbs per sq ft. That’s IF the bldg inspector gets to inspect it, though, and it sounds like there’s been work going on w/out even a permit much less inspections. Did it have a built-to-code dance floor in the previous incarnation? Just curious. I did notice columns on the drawings, but drawings are just drawings submitted to the city and not necessarily followed during construction…Other than that comment, I liked your post #76, really great points made.
Sigh, I’m breaking a resolution already and it’s only Jan. 1 – I promised myself I wouldn’t post to this thread ’cause I live ten blocks away….wonder what will happen to my other resolutions…
I am a resident of Union Hill. And I seriously hope this place gets a positive up beat crowd.
I hope this is one in a million to come.
Carytown offers a lot and so can Union Hill. Union Hill used to resemble Carytown with it’s many novelty shops. And maybe some of you haven’t gone to Carytown or the Fan lately but it’s more than one bar. If it was Nacho Mama’s you’d still complain. But everybody can’t be pleased with the same thing in life. So I guess we will have to agree to disagree.
~~~Cool Facts about Carytown~~~
Citysearch Editorial Profile– by Kristine Forrest
A true shopping destination that makes being trendy even more fun.
Destination Shopping
With over 10 blocks of specialty stores, funky restaurants and unique galleries, Carytown is a far cry from strip mall shopping. Consider it a Busch Gardens for bargain-hunters: there’s a whole world of unusual shops to discover and it could easily take a whole day to do it. Seek out kitschy gifts at Mongrel, World of Mirth or Lane Sanson; find frocks at Pink, Narcissus or Phoenix and pick up a book at Carytown Books or Narnia.
Fuel Up
Carytown restaurant owners know how to capitalize on location–diners get great food and even better people-watching vantage points at Acacia and Nacho Mama’s. Need something quick Try picking up a sandwich at The Baker’s Crust, or grabbing a burger at the retro Galaxy Diner.
“It has absolutely nothing to do with race”. Maybe not but when I complained about the loud bands and boisterous patrons at Accapella’s, most everyone wanted to give me directions to Hanover’s cow farms.
Amazing how many of the commenters are sudden defenders of the same city rules that Je bashes in her Style backpage commentary. Bet you liked her attempts to fight city bureaucracy.
Anon – Je’s issues were actually totally different. Je was griping about the disconnect between zoning, ABC and the health dept. There are more basic public safety issues being discussed here, however. The complaints from the neighbors are more simple than the “opening a restaurant” issues Je talked about because the neighbors are raising a red flag over the owners’ failure to follow the building code. The fundamental building code requirements are something every legitimate contractor should know – they are not hidden behind the veil of City Hall red tape.
Anon, WHO are you kidding? How can you possibly equate Jumpin’Je’s to Inner City Blues?
First off, Je took a ratty nasty hole of a building from a ghetto mart complete with drunks in the side yard and invested over $50,000 of HER OWN MONEY in it. And that doesn’t include the subsequent loans she took out to remodel this year.
So these InnerCityBlues folks have a sweeeeet deal: a ready-to-go, 2 story restaurant/bar/nightclub with no investment necessary! Just rent. Crank up the tunes and go, man.
How do I know this? Look at the application for the building on the city’s website: the plans were approved, and the building inspector required no changes or alterations.
But wait, the application says the business is putting in a whole $19.00 worth of light remodeling into the building! Wow, that was lunch for 2 at Je’s with no tip.
Assuming they’re not lying about the improvements, what does $19.00 get ya? A new toilet paper holder in the mens’ restroom?
The only thing really holding up the permit for InnerCityBlues is the parking spaces. It’s all online, dude, check out the city website under “permits”, and drill-down a few screens.
Oh, and while you’re there, look up the permits for Jumpin Je’s…see the 3rd one down? That’s the biggee for “light remodeling” at $42K. OUCH add the subsequent plumbing and electrical, and you can see her landlord got a great deal! A tenant who puts over $50K of improvements into your property. Woo-hoo! Gimmy more like those.
So yeah, Anon, opening a bar/nighclub/restaurant TO MAKE MONEY should be a little hard. Especially if you’re jamming 89 people in a building ,dancing on the 2nd floor and pouring cocktails…ok, some dinner too.
C’mon Anon, you gotta look a little closer at the sit-chee-a-shun, bro.
I was not talking about cost. I was talking about this sentiment:
“I don’t think anybody in the area would be opposed to a business that abides by the established rules in the city (i.e. permits, zoning compliance, adherence to code, compliance to Old & Historic guidelines, etc.)”
The established rules of the city are, according to Je, what took her down. But now we want them? Because they’ll help keep out the people you don’t like?
I’m just saying it’s ironic, is all. And just for bonus points I’ll point out that those corner stores are all legitimate and follow the rules (most of the time- every business violets some rules). But no one on this site wants them…
My point is- don’t hide behind the city rules and proceeses. UH residents who read this site don’t want this business nearby- but it has nothing to do with whether they follow the rules or not. If they followed every rule, were allowed to open a bar or a nightclub in the area, and raze half the block for parking legally, then you’d still have a bunch of upset people here.
It’ aint about the rules
Anon, if “it ain’t about the rules” then what is it about? Please be specific.
Is it about the fact that for once in a great while a community gets the chance to take a stand and decide what it want’s to become? Right now, the commercial area is zoned B2 which allows uses many of us wouldn’t want to live next door to.
The whole area is up for rezoning, and that includes a new zoning category: R7 which encourages corner stores (like the specialty stores in the Fan) and waives the off-street parking requirements. Nightclubs aren’t an allowed use in R7.
It’s unfortunate the management of InnerCityBlues have gotten caught up in what really is a community issue about the use of space as a live music venue/disco. That is regrettable. But it’s not too late to salvage an equitable solution from this.
Why can’t they just open a restaurant, get their ABC License and contribute to the city’s tax base?
You mentioned corner stores. Union Hill’ers don’t have a problem with Mr. Bloomfield’s Market on 24th Street. But they do have a problem with the Family Supermarket 2 blocks from Mr. Bloomfield.
There is big a difference between knowingly breaking the law & enabling law breakers (which the Family Supermarket does) and intentionally shooing the law breakers away (which Mr. Bloomfield does).
This is about a community deciding what it wants to be? Church Hill North did it last year with a City Old & Historic District. Why can’t Union Hill do it by working out a compromise with the management of Inner City Blues?
It’s not about the people, it’s about the income generating activities they wish to pursue which are not compatible with this neighborhood.
Actually, this is all about the rules. Ignoring the rules is what raised the red flag on this one. It’s what got everyone up in arms and created the perception that scofflaws were setting up shop. The neighbors perceived that the City made Que Pasa and Je’s jump through countless hoops, but was just going to sit on the sidelines for this place, which the neighbors saw already had some obvious building violations.
Add to that the owner/operator’s complete lack of communication of their plans to the neighbors and you get 84 posts on the neighborhood blog.
Where is the building permit ?. Where are the 30 parking spaces?. Why haven’t the developers explained their plan openly to the areas home-owners and business owners and where is the City permits Dept on the work already being done ? Workers have been in the site for months now. I have no problem with a business operating at the location, but they must follow the same rules and regs as everyone else. Like all other building projects in the city, permits must be filed, work must be completed, inspected and CO approved. The permits must be displayed in the front windows.
this site can’t veto a person’s right to start a business and earn a living. sometimes this site sounds like the former soviet union. I hope it opens.
Follow up from the presentation to UHCA:
today i was standing in line at family market behind a mom who was using a food stamp credit card to buy her 3 children soda,chips and candy for dinner,meanwhile she was buying 30 dollars worth of lotto tix.(cash)..as i walked out i was accosted by a man with horrible breath who asked me for some change.i gave him a quarter.he asked me for a cigarette.i said nah.i then had tug of war with my dog for a chicken bone.he won.just then a 15 year old blk.girl leaving the market, got into a car with a richmond law sticker ,driven by a wht.23 tear old.i passed by inner city blues and asked a guy there , asked what was up with the new place?i got an unfriendly answer that made me feel like i would not be welcome there.i live 30 yards away.so whatever, i hope the place fails ,,and i hope family mrkt.gets shut down ..cmon people…
big g . . . you’re an ass. You chose this neighborhood. Maybe you should consider a lovely townhouse in shortpump.
and you can’t be candy or soda with foodstamps – so what else is contrived in your story?
Furthermore, I hope it opens and, like The Hill Cafe and Acappella, becomes a huge success.
tiny-maybe it’s true that you’re not supposed to buy candy and soda with the cardinal cards (Food Stamp EBT Cards), but i’ve seen it done with my own eyes. I don’t know. big g, maybe the Department of Social Services should be made aware.
Ironically, the former owner of the Church Hill Lounge, 2306 E. Leigh, was convicted of food stamp fraud in the 1990’s (a felony). At that establishment, he accepted food stamps for alchol.
Big G is lucky that all he saw transacted at the Family Supermarket was candy and soda. That establishment was shut down in the late 90’s/early ’00 because the management was trading in firearms. He went to Federal Prison for that deal.
I could be wrong here, but isn’t “big g” being sarcastic – as indicated by the “..cmon people…?”
I bet big g never responds to the posts. He just wanted to throw his little tantrum and then stomp out.
How did you know thier ages anyway?
He’s just a troll trying to start some stupid argument. Ignore him and maybe he’ll go away…
I hope he get’s his spacebar fixed before he comments again though.
norma jean you got it right.i was being sarcastic.. but,an ass? hell, if i was trying to be an ass i would of pointed out that you could recycle the littered chicken bones on the streets surrounding the family mrkt.to simmer up a hearty chicken broth with which you could hand out to the dealers,on these oh so cold nights and help fight the battle of cornerstore hypothermia this winter.
Though not related, does anyone know if the tailor next door is open for business? There is a sign that says, Not Open, but I wasn’t sure if that is for good. He always did alterations for me. Thanks
Bob, the tailor shop is temporarily closed, though Mr. Charles Alexander is hoping to re-open this spring. Stay tuned.
Thanks UnionHill. But ah, where to go now. Nice people and very reasonably priced.
I just want a good blues club in town…I wish it were in MY neighborhood – you lucky dogs!!!
When it opening???
April fool’s or comedy???
I am so disturbed by the comments on this thread… SO they didn’t pull permits initially …. many, many commercial and residential projects in CH and UH start from the inside slowly and then pull permits later. I see it all the time, I’m not saying it’s right, but it is normative.
I also don’t understand people’s anxieties about live music – I wish that ALL of our restaurants could have live music (with appropriate turn-off times, ie. 11 pm weeknights, 2 am weekends) — Buzzy’s tried and was rejected, I think the word is still out on Que Pasa?, but people on this blog never ever complained about the Jazz combo that sometimes played at Js.
I moved to this urban neighborhood 4 years ago hoping to live in a racially and economically diverse place with a variety of local businesses that I could walk to. Seems plausible, the business owners want to provide us with places to go. But between the city’s excessive bureaucracy and the anti-progress propagated by busy-body neighbors, we are going to be stuck with a neighborhood full of pretty houses and not much else.
Does anyone know what’s up with this place? There are people working on it again and a new permit in the window.
The building permit for “light remodeling” is still open from Oct. 2007. No application on file with VA-ABC for a license to serve beer/wine/spirits.
there’s been more activity at ye olde inner city blues lately. this weekend someone there must have hooked up the PA to the radio, because we could hear it a block away with our windows closed. not a complaint, just wondering what’s going on over there!
Does anyone have an opinion on this club?
The place never actually opened up.
I have seen some work activity again recently at the building. Anyone know if there are still plans for it?