The young and old, black and white, new and long-term residents, all came together at the Rosedale Recreation Center this past Saturday for the 1st Annual Ward 6 Family Day. A diverse group of 300-400 residents (and several dozen dogs) from all four quadrants of the Ward socialized, swam, ate, competed and played together in a variety of activities. Over $1000.00 in prizes were given away that included gift certificates from local businesses, an autographed Nationals jersey and bat, a DC United autographed soccer ball and several soccer camps for youth. The community event was a huge success for the District, the Rosedale community and all residents of the Ward by coming together for a day of fun and family.

MPD Officer Hardy and Peterbug manned the grill as the Department of Parks and Recreation and other officers served the food. ANC Commissioners Ken Jarboe and Keith Silver joined the Wells’ softball team but suffered a respectable loss to the seasoned Parks and Rec team. Councilmember Tommy Thomas took one at bat for the Parks and Rec team and cranked the ball over the fence and into the pool. Washington Nationals’ coaches Tim Tolman and Pat Corrales coached a game of T-ball for the kids and the Les Halles Tennis Foundation held a tennis clinic for adults and children. These are just a few of my memories from the First Annual Ward 6 Family Day.

Plans are currently being made to make the Second Annual Rosedale Recreation Family Day bigger and better, if that is possible. Tommy has a few more tricks up his sleeve for the following year. So, if you did not make it out this year, I would make plans to join us in the years to come. I would like to personally thank all of our sponsors, Ms. Evelyn Lightfoot of DPR, all staff members, Councilmembers Cheh, Mendelson, Brown, and Thomas for joining us, and of course our own, Ward 6 Councilmember, Tommy for making this such a wonderful event for the residents of Ward 6.

Below, we’ve posted a few of our favorite pictures from the event. Let us know what you thought of the event and ideas to make it better next year! 

Nationals' coaches give t-ball lessons... 

Tommy Kicks Off Ward 6 Family Day... 

Tommy pitches in the Celebrity Softball Game... 

Councilmember Phil Mendelson and "Princess" Addy... 

Enjoying the hamburgers and hotdogs... 

Volunteers put on a fresh coat of paint...