When a simple ‘thank you’ isn’t enough

Have you seen it?

Shortly after 8 p.m. Tuesday, this appeared on the south-facing wall of the Hastings Condominiums at 4444 Connecticut Avenue.

Who is behind this “thank you” to essential workers? Last month, FHC editor Marlene Berlin called Van Ness Main Street Executive Director Gloria Garcia with an idea: a light projection that expresses gratitude for the essential workers (including those working in health care, grocery, restaurants, public safety and sanitation) working so hard to keep the neighborhood safe, healthy and livable.

#EssentialWorkers #ThankYou #StayStrong (photo courtesy of Superlative Events)

Garcia did not hesitate. Not even for a moment. And she knew just where it should go – on the blank wall of the Hastings. She contacted the condo board and got their approval, and she got the buy in from Bread Furst, whose electricity was needed, and Flagship Car Wash, whose roof would be perfect for the “gobo” projector. The VNMS Design Committee gave its blessings. And up it went, with fast work by Brian King, head of Superlative Events.

The “thank you” message will light up the south side of the Hastings – from sundown to sunup – through June 14th.

Speaking of essential services: Van Ness Main Street has worked tirelessly to assist local businesses through the Covid-19 crisis. At the April 21 ANC 3F meeting, Garcia reported that VNMS had awarded $54,000 in emergency grants since March 16th. Your donations help VNMS continue to provide financial and marketing support to small businesses within its boundaries.