Well, now that it’s far beyond those 12 days of Christmas, you think maybe it’s time to dump that Christmas tree? Yes, you could live by the principle that next Christmas is only eleven months away, but if that’s a real spruce you’ve got, it may well be time to part ways with it. And while unceremoniously dumping it on your neighbors lawn and running is the easiest option, there are legal ways to finally rid yourself of the last of that Christmas spirit.

New York Times Journalist Killed: A 30-year veteran of the New York Times’ Washington bureau died last night, the victim of a violent mugging on Friday in Northwest D.C., reports WTOP. The 63-year-old reporter, David Rosenbaum, joined the Times’ Washington bureau in 1968, and won the George Polk Award for National Reporting in 1990 for his coverage of federal budget issues.

Williams Outlines Plans for Future: D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams knows he’ll soon be out of a job, so he’s planning accordingly. According to WJLA, Williams, long credited for bringing the city back from the brink of financial ruin, is looking to apply his skills to a troubled company or non-profit organization after he leaves office early next year. A university, maybe? American University? Oh wait, that rumor has already been spread.

Chinatown Recognizes its Roots: Do you feel that Chinatown has been lacking in that Chinese feel as of late? Is the Chinese arch over H Street and the spattering of Chinese lettering on some businesses there just not enough to satiate your need for all things China? Fear not then, for WJLA today informs us that the District opened the Chinatown Community Cultural Center on Saturday, touted as a gathering spot for Chinese-Americans and a place to learn of Chinese culture. That’s not to say that Hooters and La Tasca aren’t totally Chinese, though.

Briefly Noted: Williams begins final year as D.C. mayor … Election reform on Maryland’s mind … Republicans seek to increase power base in Maryland … District considers new juvenile detention facility … Group gathers to protest Herndon labor center.

Picture snapped by Scizzo.

Filed Under: american university, anthony williams, Briefly Noted, china, chinatown, Chinese, christmas, community, Cultural Center, culture, David, david rosenbaum, district, election, h street, la tasca, labor, Maryland, mayor, Mayor Anthony Williams, new york, new york times, news, Northwest D, photos, protest, republicans, running, the city, university, washington,