Word on the Hill: Is Your Resolution to be Healthier?

By Alex Gangitano

Posted January 9, 2017 at 5:00am

If your New Year’s resolution is anything along the lines of getting in better shape, the Capitol wants to help you reach your goal.

Today is the launch of the “Get Fit” program in dining areas, especially the Senate Carry-out, judging by the giant sign outside. The program provides meals under certain calorie amounts marked with a big green circle label that reads “FIT.”

We are also in the middle of a 12-week “Weight Watchers at Work” program on the Hill, which began Jan. 5 and runs through March 23. Meetings are held on Thursdays. Registration is closed, but organizers suggest you call 202-224-7628 for any questions.

Shimkus collecting Valentines for vets

Rep. John Shimkus, R-Ill., has started his annual “Valentines for Heroes” program, which collects Valentine’s Day cards for veterans in his state. District offices will be collecting them until Feb. 4, so they can be distributed to local Veterans Affairs and military facilities before Feb. 14, local TV station KFVS 12 reported.

Staffer shuffle

Andrew Kovalcin, former senior director of advocacy and external affairs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, has launched his own advocacy firm, Advanced Advocacy.

Spotted

Actors Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick were seen dining with the U.S. ambassador to Spain and Andorra, James Costos, on Friday at The Oval Room.

Happening this week

TuesdayObama’s farewell: President Barack Obama will deliver his farewell address from Chicago at 9 p.m. ET.

WednesdayConfirmation hearings: The Capitol is going to be very packed with visitors and the national press, so I’d arrive to work on the early side. Several of President-elect Donald Trump’s Cabinet picks are scheduled to have their confirmation hearings today.

ThursdaySip & Dry VIP opening: A hair blowout bar with a full-time bartender is opening at 2004 Hecht Ave. NE., in the Ivy City area and it’s throwing an event to kick it off.