Weekly Washington: Incoming!

photo by M.V. JantzenPenn Quarter Living details a bit of the bait and switch of the National Aquarium here in DC. The title says it all: “Don’t Go For the Fish.” I agree, I’ve seen pet shops with more intriguing displays. Although the history of the Aquarium is pretty interesting.

A Maryland based firm has been tasked with the $30.7 million dollar contract to rebuild the Reflecting Memorial. Besides the fact that the Pool is slowly sinking into the muck that is West Potomac Park, the Reflecting Pool is plagued with numerous longstanding problems. Chief among them, the lack of circulation of the potable water in the Pool causes some truly impressive and disgusting algae blooms every year. A National Park Service spokesman did take the time to caution that the Pool will not become a swimming pool simply because it will get a new filtration system. Which is sad. (Hometown Annapolis via GGW)

Philip Kennicott of the Washington Post has an excellent discussion of the Supreme Court’s decision to bar entry through the front door. Couldn’t agree more. It’s long past time to introduce balance to the legitimate needs to protect ourselves and institutions from terrorism (and from whack jobs!).

Plans and in progress for a revamped Union Station and the Washington City Paper takes a good look at them. Greater Greater Washington and Beyond DC have some in-depth discussion of the topic.

Yeah, yeah, lot’s of stuff on the Mall this weekend. Stay clear, unless that’s what you’re here for. TBD.com has the round-up of coverage, along with links to here and some other great websites that discuss the topic. Lot of good stuff, but I particularly recommend WeLoveDC’s take on the events.