🔪 DC’s legendary food critic steps down

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The End of an Era for Sietsema

Tom Sietsema, the longtime food critic at the Washington Post, announced yesterday that he’s stepping down. And he finally revealed his identity! To honor his many years scouring the DMV for the best food, we’re taking you back to a City Cast DC episode where he shared with us what it was like to be anonymous and use pseudonyms. [City Cast DC 🎧]

• As a former D.C. server, I think I can speak for most in the industry when I say Sietsema’s identity wasn’t totally anonymous! At least not to those of us living in high-adrenaline restaurant-life anxiety 🤭 He was always kind in person, but the pen is mightier than the sword! I’ll never forget this scathing review 🫣 [Washington Post 🔒]

Construction Workers Avoid DC Sites

President Trump’s policies targeting immigrants have led to significant construction worker shortages in D.C., as many workers are avoiding job sites and supply stores fearing ICE presence and enforcement. As a result, the labor shortage is slowing development in D.C., and many workers report choosing jobs in Maryland and Virginia instead. [Axios DC]

Shutdown Affects National Guardsmen’s Pay

As a result of the federal shutdown and while Congress continues to debate funding, over two million servicemembers (including 2,300 guardsmen in D.C.) will be working without a paycheck. Military personnel and other federal employees will receive backpay once the continuing resolution or budget is passed. [7News]

Midair Helicopter Collision Prompts New Safety Measures

The FAA has enacted permanent helicopter restrictions and operational changes in D.C.-area airports in light of the midair collision near Reagan National Airport on Jan. 29. Officials will restrict helicopter zone sizes at DCA, BWI and IAD, as well as increase staffing and support at DCA. [WTOP]

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