Monthly Archives: April 2010
Action Committee for Transit slamming new Ride-On cutbacks
We know that transit issues in and around Bethesda can cause tension and disagreement but we feel that we need to share the various positions on these issues with the Bethesda Actually community. So, in that spirit, please find below a release from the Action Committee for Transit slamming new Ride-On cutbacks:
Cork 57 Co-Owner Involved with “Food and Wine Company”
So it seems that Cork 57 owner Francis Namin is behind the new Bethesda venture the “Food and Wine Company.” We have discussed the new restaurant in the past but will really try to get a few more details now that we know Namin is involved. One of the interesting dimensions to his new business is that he is looking to drastically limit the mark up on wines. This is unusual but could be a brilliant move. More to follow on this…..
Austin Grill Seems to Have Closed
As Brian pointed out in the comments below, Austin Grill seems to have closed its doors here in Bethesda. If that is correct, it is a bit of a shame as I quite liked their reasonable prices and nice outdoor seating area. I found AG to be a decent place for a couple of drinks, chips and salsa on a summer’s evening. I don’t know the reason for the closing (if that is what it is) but perhaps the combination of Uncle Julio’s and Tia Queta proved to be too much competition in their niche?
When I walked past their (old) premises a couple of days ago I noticed that there was a refurbishment going on inside and Brian mentioned in the comments below that an American Tap Room may be filling the void. We’ll check it out and get back to you with more details.
Would you be happy to see a Tap Room in that spot if AG has infact closed its doors in downtown Bethesda?
Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande and Frogs
I recently received an email from a member of the Bethesda Actually community and wanted to share its key points with you.
It seems that a non-profit called “Save the Frogs” will be conducting, in their words, “The world’s first protests in defense of frog populations” this Friday in MD, VA, and TX. Friday is, apparently, the 2nd Annual Save The Frogs Day.
A focal point of the action will be Bethesda because we have a branch of the Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande chain. Uncle Julio’s is a target because they serve frogs legs on their menu (as an aside, I have had drinks there a number of times and we have given the place a favorable review on this site).
Anyway, the details are pretty interesting so I am going to post a portion of the email below. Bethesda Actually is also happy to post information on this matter from Uncle Julio’s and Save the Frogs. Feel free to email us (bethesdactually@gmail.com) or leave a comment below.
Hearing from the Community
Friends, we want and need your input to build a stronger on and off line community so if you have an idea/event for us to cover– email us (bethesdactually@gmail.com) or leave a comment below — cheers!
RE: The White Flint Sector Plan
Friends, here are a few more details on the Smart Growth initiative for Bethesda “north” aka the White Flint Sector Plan:
Among the plan’s goals:
- create thriving, diverse mixed use center with highest intensity closest to Metro and along Rockville Pike
- create new parks and open spaces
- transform Rockville Pike into a boulevard with a landscape median, street trees and improved crosswalks
- develop a transportation network that includes a grid of new public streets
- improve the pedestrian and bicycling environment
- promote sustainable development
- create new public facilities
- provide affordable housing
- promote innovative ways to finance and manage new infrastructure
More info here.
Smart Growth for Rockville Pike
As readers of this blog know we like the smart growth strategy that has been developed to regenerate/ green and generally improve Bethesda “north” aka White Flint @ Rockville Pike.
The NYT has a nice feature outlining the project on their site at the moment. It doesn’t provide many new details but captures the general parameters and challenges of the effort. Well worth a read….
Quote of the Day: John B. Murgolo, President Bethesda Fire Department
“I urge each and every one of you, my fellow citizens of Montgomery County, to be vocal in your opposition to both the ambulance fee and the proposed budget cuts to the county’s volunteer firefighters. Let the County Council know how you feel about this urgent public safety issue for the well-being and protection of you and your loved ones.”
You can read his entire op-ed here.
Congratulations to the AFCEA for a Terrific Children’s Inn at NIH Benefit
The AFCEA held their 12th annual fundraising ball for the Children’s Inn at NIH and once again raised lots of money for a worthy cause. If you did not get a chance to attend the evening you can see some pictures here and add your contribution here.
Congratulations AFCEA and keep up the good charitable work!
Health Real Estate Meeting in Bethesda
Hi folks — bit of a niche issue here but wanted to flag this meeting for you.
