Children’s National Has ‘One’ Heck Of A Night; Two Year Anniversary Event Snags Mountain Of Toys!

DUPONT CIRCLE -- Washington’s movers and shakers crowded Dupont Circle Thursday evening, as One Lounge kitchen and cocktail bar hosted a private birthday party in honor of the popular spot’s second anniversary.

The venue was literally brimming with holiday cheer, as dozens of well-known TV news personalities, media executives, business leaders, and, of course, regulars mingled about One Lounge’s well-appointed two stories, casually sipping miniature bottles of Moet & Chandon champagne or specialty cocktails courtesy of Svedka and Maker’s Mark.

The recipients of many a congratulatory toast, owners Niko Papademetriou and Seth McClelland were spotted throughout the night laughing with the likes of ABC 7's Alison Starling, Cynne Simpson, Natasha Barrett, and Jummy Olabanji, NBC 4's Eun Yang, Doug Kammerer and Dan Hellie, FOX 5's Dave Feldman, Rogue 24 Owner and Chef RJ Cooper, WPGC's Sunni and the City, Luxxery Medical Spa's Dr. Ayman Hakki, and Capital File Magazine Editor-In-Chief Kate Bennett.

Spearheaded by ABC 7 anchor Pamela Brown and sports reporter Britt McHenry, the blowout bash also served double duty as a holiday toy drive for Children’s National Medical Center, with the doorway by the entrance overflowing with games, dolls, and stuffed animals by evening’s end.

Brown also used the occasion to pitch guests on her new ‘Birthday Ambassador’ program for Children’s National, which matches long-term patients with volunteers who, in turn, help throw memorable birthday celebrations at the hospital.

“These young, long-term patients at Children's Hospital already miss out on so much of their childhoods,” said Brown. “A memorable birthday celebration is something we can bring to them so that they can enjoy what every kid deserves to experience."

If year two was any indicator, then year three is sure to be the proverbial charm!