Wow. This image of a very defensive plant almost looks like something from an electron microscope, than a photograph from a standard optical dSLR. Flickr user krisetya found this leaf at the Smithsonian Castle Garden, but can't remember what kind it is -- anyone know? EXIF.
more ›

The Smithsonian Institution is searching for a public or private partner to redevelop and rent the historic Arts and Industries Building, since, according to the Smithsonian's facilities director, William W. Brubaker, the Institution "does not have funding now or in the foreseeable future to rehabilitate" it. The 126-year-old building, the second-oldest next to the Smithsonian Castle, has been closed for three years "in preparation for renovation" since the roof began collapsing -- but no work... more ›

A month and a half after former Secretary Lawrence M. Small read the writing on the wall and left the Smithsonian Institution with his tail between his legs and an investigation committee on his back, the Smithsonian board of regents has begun its search for his replacement. The Associated Press reports that the search committee, formed yesterday but not fully yet, will include six board members, including Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), and one of Chief... more ›

There's word that a new pub is coming to Downtown, near Brasserie Les Halles on Pennsylvania Avenue near 12th Street NW. The pub, part of the Elephant & Castle chain, still doesn't appear on the franchise website, so no specific opening date is known. But if the description on the company website holds true, Elephant & Castle will feature "[h]eart-warming comfort foods from Britain" in "a blending of design elements reminiscent of Jolly Old England." Though we haven't been over the pond in some time, this claim seems a little off the mark. The menu features nachos, wings, and low-carb options. The last time we were over the pond, we had trouble finding any evidence of Mexican food, and we don't think any English pub-goer would concern themselves with lowering their carb intake. The claim of genuine-ness seems a bit off the mark. But it has been a while, so we might be wrong. more ›

The warm weather will continue today with highs around 60, and a 40 percent chance of showers towards the afternoon. The photograph above of the Smithsonian Castle was taken Saturday. more ›

DC's 2004 Asian Pacific American Film Festival is well under way. The festival features screenings of a wide variety of films at venues across the District - from the Smithsonian Castle to the Goethe-Institut. The festival runs through the 16th, when it closes with a blowout party at Panache off Connecticut. (See a Washingtonian review.) Bex Blog is attending the screening tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Goethe-Institut of a series of women's short films... more ›