Martin Austermuhle
>> Yeah, you. You need to stay late tonight to make up for the crazy amount of time you’re about to have off. That’s right, those of us who do not work for the Federal Government are currently glaring up a storm at those of you who do, because the word from on high is now official: President Bush has declared January 2 as the official day of mourning for President Ford, which means Federal offices will be closed and all you rat bastards are getting a 4-day weekend. Good thing there’s no good snow for skiing around these parts yet, or we’d be forced to break your legs. We hope you realize it’s your patriotic duty to spend the day pondering Ford’s life and legacy, and not sleeping off a hangover. Also note that Mayor-elect Adrian Fenty’s inauguration festivities have been postponed. He will still be sworn in at a private ceremony Tuesday, but the official public swearing-in will now take place on Wednesday, Jan. 3. Fenty’s inaugural ball has been rescheduled for Saturday, Jan. 6.
>> As we close out the year, just about everyone is fessing up to something — including D.C. politicians. The Post reports today that it often took outgoing D.C. Council Chair Linda Cropp to keep Jack Evans (D-Ward 2) and David Catania (I-At Large) from beating the living hell out of each other during council debates. Our money would be on Catania. Another interesting tidbit — outgoing Mayor Anthony Williams and his guests enjoyed fine cognac and cigars on their many trips abroad. [Washington Post]
>> D.C. Police Chief Charles Ramseyworks his last day today. Unofficial word is that he’ll spend a few days pondering his next move, but hopefully just resort to holding “Fenty Sucks” signs in front of any of the many surveillance cameras he had installed throughout the city during the summer crime spike. [NBC 4]
>> For all you doubters out there, read this post — good still exists in this world. [The Cords of Billroth]
>> Had Gerald Ford lived in a two-bedroom condo on U Street, his place would sell in a heartbeat. But he didn’t, and it doesn’t seem like many people are interested in modest two-story homes in Alexandria with garages equipped to handle vice-presidential limos. [WJLA]
>> Unless you’re planning on keeping that Douglas Fir alive until next Christmas, the Department of Public Works will be picking up disposed-of trees from January 2-13.
Picture snapped by Samer Farha
