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Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Charistic Red Sox pitching legend Luis Tiant dies at 83.

• Upcoming Washington Capitals match

• A deep-dive into the life of Duke Ellington

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What is the name of the famous cherry blossom festival that celebrates the gift of Japanese cherry trees to the city of Washington DC?

A) The National Cherry Blossom Festival

B) The DC Cherry Festival

C) The Potomac Blossom Festival

D) Sakura Matsuri

Answer to Week 4's Trivia:

The Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington DC is famously home to C) Panda Bear.

News

💼Business

Life sciences giant MilliporeSigma debuts $286M Rockville hub. (Link)

Judge awards Marriott $8M in damages in robocalls lawsuit. (Link)

🏒Sports

Charistic Red Sox pitching legend Luis Tiant dies at 83. (Link)

Daniels, resurgent defense carry red-hot Commanders to division lead. (Link)

🏦Finance

HMSHost more than halves its headquarters space in North Bethesda. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports Events

🏒 Dallas Stars at Washington Capitals
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Thursday, Oct. 17th | (More info)

🏈 Tennessee State Tigers at Howard Bison Football
Greene Stadium, Washington, DC
Saturday, Oct. 19th | (More info)

Concerts

🎶 You Me At Six
Howard Theatre, Washington, DC
Wednesday, Oct. 16th | (More info)

🎤 Stephen Sanchez and The Paper Kites
The Anthem, Washington, DC
Thursday, Oct. 17th | (More info)

Family

🎤 Kids Open-Mic Night!
3222 11th Street Northwest, Washington, DC
Monday, Oct. 14th | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “A steampunk-themed Washington DC with Victorian architecture” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Washington D.C. Historical Events

Washington National Monument Groundbreaking (1848) - The construction of the Washington Monument begins.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Washington National Monument on July 4th, 1848, marked the commencement of an ambitious endeavor to honor George Washington, the first President of the United States. The idea to construct a grand monument had been in discussion for decades, evolving significantly since its initial conception. The chosen design, influenced by ancient Egyptian obelisks, aimed to symbolize the timeless and steadfast character of Washington. The event took place in Washington D.C., attracting notable figures, including then-President James K. Polk, future presidents Buchanan, Lincoln, and Johnson, and other dignitaries, signifying the monumental importance of this venture in the hearts of the American people.

The construction of the Washington Monument faced numerous challenges, including political disputes, lack of funds, and the Civil War, which caused significant delays. The original design and plans underwent several modifications over the years due to these hurdles. The project, initially managed by the Washington National Monument Society, struggled with fundraising, leading to periods of halted work and slow progress. It wasn't until 1876, nearly three decades after the groundbreaking, that the U.S. Congress took over the project, ensuring a renewed focus and the necessary funding to continue.

Finally completed in December 1884 and officially opened to the public in 1888, the Washington Monument stood as the world's tallest structure at the time, at over 555 feet. It remains today as a powerful symbol of the United States’ reverence for George Washington and his legacy. The monument's completion represents not only an architectural and engineering feat but also a unifying monument that commemorates the foundational principles and enduring spirit of the nation. The journey from its groundbreaking to completion tells a story of resilience and collective memory, a testament to Washington’s lasting footprint on American identity and values.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Duke Ellington (1899–1974) - Influential jazz composer, pianist, and bandleader, born and raised in Washington, D.C.

Duke Ellington, an emblematic figure in the world of jazz, was not only a pioneering composer and pianist but also a bandleader who left an indelible mark on the music industry. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Ellington's journey from his local roots to global fame encapsulates the evolution of jazz itself.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1899-1917)

Edward Kennedy Duke Ellington was born in Washington D.C., into a family of musicians that instilled in him a deep love for music. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, he began studying piano at a young age. Despite an early start, it wasn't until his teenage years that Ellington's serious passion for jazz and ragtime music took shape, underlining the beginning of an illustrious career.

Rising Star in New York (1918-1926)

Seeking broader horizons, Ellington moved to New York City in the mid-1920s, a move that proved pivotal. Harlem, a cultural hub for the African American community, was where he formed his first band. The Cotton Club, one of Harlem's most famous nightclubs, became the home for Ellington's orchestra. His early compositions during this period started to gain attention, setting the stage for his future success.

Establishing a Legacy as a Bandleader (1927-1945)

During this period, Duke Ellington began to establish himself not just as a musician but as a charismatic bandleader. His orchestra became known for its sophisticated arrangements and unique blend of orchestral jazz. Ellington’s ability to draw the best out of his musicians, coupled with his innovative compositions, made his orchestra a staple in American music.

Innovations in Jazz (1946-1959)

Ellington's journey through the mid-20th century was marked by constant innovation. His commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz led him to experiment with long-form compositions, blending genres, and incorporating classical elements into jazz. This period saw the creation of some of his most ambitious works such as Such Sweet Thunder and The Far East Suite, which further solidified his status as a leading figure in the world of jazz.

Global Ambassador of Jazz (1960-1974)

Ellington's influence reached global proportions in the later years of his career. Through extensive tours that took him and his orchestra to Europe, Asia, and beyond, Ellington served as an unofficial ambassador of jazz and American culture. His role in cultural diplomacy highlighted the universal appeal of jazz, bridging cultural gaps and fostering global connections.

Connection to Washington D.C.

Throughout his career, Duke Ellington maintained a profound connection to Washington D.C., the city of his birth. His upbringing in the vibrant cultural milieu of D.C. played a significant role in shaping his musical sensibilities and outlook. The city not only served as the starting point of his musical journey but also remained a touchstone of his identity, influencing his compositions and musical style.

Collaborations and Expanding Horizons (Throughout Career)

Ellington's willingness to collaborate with other musicians and composers was instrumental in expanding the horizons of jazz. Working with figures like Billy Strayhorn, Ellington co-created some of the genre's most celebrated pieces. These collaborations, rooted in mutual respect and creative synergy, were essential to the evolution of Ellington's musical vision.

Awards and Honors (Throughout Career)

Over the course of his career, Duke Ellington received numerous awards and honors, recognizing his contributions to music and culture. From Grammy Awards to the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Ellington's accolades reflected his status as a cultural icon. Despite the recognition, he remained dedicated to his craft, continuing to innovate and inspire until the end of his life.

Legacy in Jazz and Beyond (1974 and Beyond)

Duke Ellington passed away in 1974, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music and enduring influence on jazz and American culture. His innovative compositions, distinctive style, and commitment to musical excellence have earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of great musicians. Ellington's work continues to inspire generations of artists, transcending genres and cultural boundaries.

Remembering Duke Ellington (1974 and Beyond)

Since his passing, Duke Ellington has been remembered not just as a jazz musician but as a cultural phenomenon. His contributions to music have been celebrated through numerous posthumous awards, tributes, and the ongoing popularity of his compositions. Ellington's life and work epitomize the creative spirit of jazz, embodying its evolution from a nascent musical form to a pivotal element of global culture.

Key Achievements of Duke Ellington:

• Pioneered the Big Band Jazz era with his orchestra.

• Composed thousands of music pieces, including jazz standards like It Don't Mean a Thing if It Ain't Got That Swing.

• Awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, along with multiple Grammy Awards throughout his career.

• - Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969 for his contributions to the arts and American culture.

• - Inducted into the Music Hall of Fame, solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in jazz music.

Duke Ellington's story is a testament to the transformative power of music and its ability to cross cultural and geographical boundaries. As a musician, bandleader, and composer, he not only shaped the landscape of jazz but also left an indelible mark on the cultural history of the 20th century. His legacy endures, a symbol of excellence, innovation, and the enduring appeal of jazz.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Yannick Lyons

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