News 'N Notes - Open Piratz Tavern Edition

- It seems as if Piratz Tavern FINALLY opened today! I may try to stop by if I can, but if anyone does go and can send me some pictures, I will post them for everyone to see. Also, please post your impressions of the Tavern!

Speaking of open restaurants, despite rumors to the contrary, The Quarry House is and has been up and running as normal.

- The Jemal Building on Colesville Road is to be converted into either a Hampton Inn, Homewood Suites or a Hilton branded hotel. [Via Silver Spring Scene]

What I find hard to believe is that Silver Spring-based Choice Hotels International doesn't have a single franchise in downtown Silver Spring, or Silver Spring at all, for that matter. There was a Comfort Inn for on Colesville Road for awhile, but that was ultimately converted into a Hilton.

- Metroblogging DC has a post today on Silver Spring's Tastee Diner.

- A reader sent me this photo of the zoning board sign for the planned office tower to be constructed on top of City Place:



I can only hope that this is a prank that somehow all planning commission employees have managed to not notice.

- Finally, the fountain is apparently been up and running, at least as of last night. Just in time to, ur, close for the winter...