December 8, Georgetown Neighborhood News

-Holiday Shoppers Beware

It’s that time of year again — when the holiday madness causes some to go against their better judgement. According to an Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) report, the night of November 30, a woman was robbed shortly after purchasing two laptops from the Apple Store on the 1200 block of Wisconsin Avenue NW. Headed from the store to the 3300 block of N Street NW, she was knocked to the ground by two suspects, who made off with the computers.

The police are operating under the assumption that the thieves followed the woman from the store, having targeted her because of her large purchase. As a result, police presence has been increased in the area, and the store is taking additional precautionary measures.

Additionally, the MPD is warning iPhone users to proceed cautiously when using them in public. Instances of iPhones being snatched from their users on the street and off outdoor café tables have become more common. At night, it’s best to avoid using your iPhone while walking.

The MPD wishes to remind would-be shoppers that criminals are out in force this time of year. They prey on those who are not mindful of their surroundings. A good rule of thumb is to take valuables with you when leaving your car unoccupied and to remain vigilant when traveling to and from stores with large items. Report suspicious activity by calling 911 immediately. This season, you’re better safe than sorry.

HomeMade Pizza Co. Expands

The Chicago-based HomeMade Pizza Co. will open a store on the 1800 block of Wisconsin Avenue. Other than Illinois and Minnesota, Washington, D.C. is a top spot for the bake-at-home gourmet pizzeria, with five other locations.

You can bake their cookies at home too, and they offer ready-made salads for pick up.

New Cupcakes in Town

Sprinkles Cupcakes, founded in Beverly Hills in 2005, will open January 2011, near the Old Stone House at 3015 M Street NW.

BID Gifts MPD Segways

The Georgetown BID donated two segways to the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Public Service Area 206 police officers on December 2. This donation is the latest example of the continued partnership between the BID and MPD to keep Georgetown safe. The segways will enable the officers to cover more territory and have a greater presence in Georgetown. They will be used exclusively by the officers for patrolling the Georgetown area.

National Pinball Museum Opens Doors

The National Pinball Museum opened December 4 at the Shops at Georgetown Park. The 14,000-square foot museum, in the old F.A.O. Schwartz toy store space on the M Street level, looks like a giant pinball machine, complete with pinball flippers. The “pay-to-play” area offers games for as little as $.50 a play. Admission is $13.50 for ages 9 and up, and kids 8 and under get in for free. Annual passes cost $80. For more information visit www.nationalpinballmuseum.org.

Legislative Update from the DC BID Council Homeless Services Reform

DC City Council is deliberating passing the “Homeless Reform Amendment,” Bill 18-1059, to change how DC provides homeless services. The bill would limit services to DC residents.

For more information about the DC BID Council, visit www.dcbidcouncil.org.