Dear Ward 5 neighbors,
This is a season of gratitude, and I am truly grateful for you this year. As the District faces an uncertain future with a major transition in federal government come January, the past few weeks have been full of countless reminders of the ways Ward 5 neighbors come together and take care of one another. Our community is resilient, committed, and creative. Together, we can tackle whatever comes our way. The District has faced challenging times before, and time and time again we come out on top.
Whether it was the days of the control board, to now when we have passed several consecutive years’ worth of balanced budgets…
Whether it was uncertainty at the height of the pandemic, to serving as a model for our region on how to bounce back, open our schools, distribute resources, and support businesses…
Whether it was last year’s feeling of doom as it was announced that Monumental Sports was attempting to relocate to Virginia, to now having a commitment for our teams to say for decades…
We face challenges, seize opportunities, and always come out on top. I’m committed to fighting for the District and ensuring we weather any coming storms as we have always done.
I hope you are able to spend the Thanksgiving holiday surrounded by loved ones. As we gather, may we also reach out to neighbors in need of a helping hand. Let’s take a moment to check on those around us who may be going without, and do what we can to ensure everyone enjoys a beautiful holiday.
Keep in mind that while the District observes the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 28, some government services will be modified. You can find a complete list at this link, but here’s a quick overview:
- The Department of Public Works (DPW) will not collect household trash, food waste, and recycling on Thursday, November 28. Collections will “slide” into Saturday, November 30. Leaf collection will operate on schedule.
- All parking enforcement will be suspended on Thursday and Friday, except for Streetcar ticketing and towing.
- All DC Public Libraries will be be closed on Thursday and Friday.
- Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) recreation centers, community centers, and indoor aquatic centers will be closed Thursday and Friday. Outdoor fields, playgrounds, and courts will be open.
- DC Public Schools will be closed Wednesday, November 27, Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29, and will resume on Monday, December 2.
And don’t forget that the Ward 5 Awards nominations form is now open! I invite you to take a moment and nominate a neighbor or two (or more!) who goes above and beyond to build healthy communities. Make plans to join us at the Ward 5 Holiday Party on December 19 from 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. at Dock5 in Union Market (1309 5th St NE) to celebrate the winners!
