Photo by Judith Beermann

Vincent Orange, R.Donahue Peebles, Trinity L. Jennings, Rokas Beresniovas

What more auspicious spot to kick off the new year than in the landmark 1700s building where George Washington and Pierre L’Enfant met to plan the Federal City? Known today as the elegant George Town Club, it was here that the Georgetown Business Association celebrated with members and friends Wednesday evening.

Just like George and Pierre, Don Peebles, chairman and chief executive officer of the Peebles Corp, the largest African American real estate development and ownership company in the U.S., joined GBA President Joe Giannino, along with Chip Dent, Ed Solomon, Rokas Beresniovas, respected arbitrator Jim Harkless, WASH-FM radio personality Marilyn Thompson, D.C. Digest”s Donna Christenson, Sue Hamilton, Jennifer Altemus and others — hosted by inimitable General Manager Brian Armstrong and his top flight team at the Club.

Armstrong, told the The Georgetown Dish “We’re in our 45^th year of offering club members a business friendly atmosphere and excellent service.” Indeed. He said “business is up” in 2011 — hopefully a good sign for all.

This party put Georgetown business leaders in a good mood for sure. The lovely surroundings, excellent food and drink and warm atmosphere was inspiration enough to say, “We”re going to have a great year.” May they be so right! Good for Georgetown, good for jobs, good for everyone.

Wine in hand, new members and old friends casino online meandered through the cozy bar and walnut lined English Tudor living room enjoying delicious passed hors d”oevres created by executive chef, Peggy Thompson.