Washington D.C. Newsletter (September 26th)

Your news, upcoming events, AI art, historical facts and more!

Sponsored by:

Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • CACI acquiring Azure Summit Technology for nearly $1.3B.

  • Upcoming Washington Nationals match

  • A deep-dive into the life of Mary P. Burrill

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does."

— William James

Sponsored

Invest in the asset class predicted to grow +$700 million by 2026

Looking to make smart money moves in 2024? How about investing in a market that's predicted to grow by nearly +$700m over the next few years, according to Deloitte.

Fortunately, it's never been easier for everyday investors to take advantage of this growth trend, thanks to the top platform for investing in shares of blue-chip art, Masterworks

Masterworks clients have already entrusted the platform with $1 billion. Isn’t it time you joined them?

Investing involves risk and past performance is not indicative of future returns. See important Reg A disclosures and aggregate advisory performance masterworks.com/cd.

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!

Which historic trail in Washington DC connects several of the city's significant monuments and memorials, offering a scenic route for visitors to explore?

A) The Capital Crescent Trail

B) The Rock Creek Park Trail

C) The National Mall Trail

D) The Potomac Heritage Trail

Answer to Week 50's Trivia:

The historic trail in Washington DC that connects several of the city's significant monuments and memorials, offering a scenic route for visitors to explore, is C) The National Mall Trail.

News

💼Business

Amazon real estate boss John Schoettler set to retire. (Link)

Ballston office sells for $28M million, representing a big loss of value but also a bargain. (Link)

🏒Sports

Ohtani stays on a tear, setting another MLB record in 14th game with a home run and a steal. (Link)

Cubs stave off elimination, beat Nationals 3-1 behind Jameson Taillon, Dansby Swanson. (Link)

🏦Finance

CACI acquiring Azure Summit Technology for nearly $1.3B. (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

Philadelphia Phillies at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Friday, Sep. 27th | 6:45pm (More info)

🏒 Boston Bruins at Washington Capitals
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Saturday, Oct. 5th | (More info)

Concerts

🎶 Gareth Emery
Echostage, Washington, DC
Saturday, Sep. 28th | (More info)

🎤 Duster
9:30 CLUB, Washington, DC
Sunday, Sep. 29th | (More info)

Family

🎨 Amiracle Kids Interior Design Program
3419 18th Street Northeast, Washington, DC
Saturday, Sep. 28th | (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 “Washington DC with buildings featuring interactive, kinetic facades” 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

Theodore Roosevelt Inaugurated (1901) - Bringing progressive reforms and conservation efforts.

Theodore Roosevelt was inaugurated as the 26th President of the United States on September 14, 1901, following the assassination of President William McKinley. Roosevelt's rise to the presidency marked a pivotal turning point in American political history, heralding the dawn of the Progressive Era. A dynamic and robust leader, Roosevelt was distinguished by his fervent commitment to reforming the economic, social, and political fabric of America. He fervently believed in the federal government's role in regulating industry, mediating between labor and capital, and safeguarding the welfare of the public. His presidency was characterized by a vigorous approach to implementing progressive reforms aimed at curbing corporate power and enhancing the quality of life for average Americans.

Roosevelt's tenure was also notable for his groundbreaking efforts in conservation, a cause to which he was deeply committed. Recognizing the rapid depletion of the country's natural resources and the unchecked exploitation of public lands, he embarked on an ambitious agenda to preserve America's wild landscapes. Through the establishment of the U.S. Forest Service and the signing of the 1906 Antiquities Act, Roosevelt safeguarded millions of acres of forest lands and created numerous national parks and wildlife refuges. His visionary approach not only protected vast tracts of wilderness but also laid the foundation for the modern environmental movement, underscoring the necessity of stewardship and sustainable use of natural resources.

The inauguration of Theodore Roosevelt in 1901 was, therefore, more than just a ceremonial transfer of power; it was a watershed moment that set the United States on a new trajectory. Roosevelt's passionate advocacy for progressive reforms and conservation efforts not only redefined the presidency but also reshaped the American landscape, both literally and figuratively. His legacy, characterized by a relentless pursuit of justice, fairness, and environmental preservation, continues to inspire and resonate within the fabric of American society. Roosevelt's presidency exemplified the potential of visionary leadership to effect profound and lasting change, making him one of the most influential figures in the annals of American history.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Mary P. Burrill (1881–1946) - Playwright and educator, known for her contributions to African American theater and civil rights.

Mary P. Burrill, an extraordinary playwright and educator, made lasting contributions to African American theater and the civil rights movement. Her life and works shined a spotlight on racial and gender injustices, paving the way for future generations of activists and artists.

Early Life and Education (1881-1900)

Born in Washington D.C. to a family that valued education and activism, Mary P. Burrill was exposed to the arts and social issues from an early age. She attended the M Street School, known for its rigorous academic standards and emphasis on African American culture and history.

Pursuit of Higher Education (1901-1904)

Burrill continued her education at Emerson College of Oratory in Boston, where she honed her skills in drama and oratory. This period was significant in shaping her artistic voice and commitment to social justice themes in her work.

Early Career and Advocacy (1905-1915)

After college, Burrill returned to Washington DC, where she began teaching at Dunbar High School. Her passion for education and activism intertwined as she used drama as a tool to teach her students about racial and gender equality.

Breakthrough as a Playwright (1915-1920)

Burrill's breakthrough came with the production of her play Aftermath, which explored the aftermath of a lynching in the South. Her powerful portrayal of racial violence and injustice brought her critical acclaim and established her as a significant voice in African American theater.

Continued Advocacy and Playwriting (1921-1930)

Throughout the 1920s, Burrill continued to write plays that tackled social issues, including They That Sit in Darkness, which addressed the oppression of African women. Her works were celebrated for their poignant social commentary and contributed to the Harlem Renaissance.

Prominent Educator in Washington DC (1931-1940)

Burrill's connection to Washington DC was not only as a playwright but also as an esteemed educator. She served as the head of the English Department at Armstrong Technical High School, where she mentored many young African Americans, encouraging their intellectual and artistic growth.

Late Career and Legacy (1941-1946)

In her late career, Burrill remained active in educational circles and continued to advocate for civil rights and women's equality. Though she published fewer works in her final years, her legacy as a trailblazer in African American theater and education endured.

Final Years and Death (1946)

Mary P. Burrill passed away in 1946, leaving behind a rich legacy of activism, education, and artistry. Her tireless work and groundbreaking plays had a profound impact on American theater and the civil rights movement.

Key Achievements of Mary P. Burrill:

  • Pioneering playwright who addressed racial and gender injustices through her works.

  • Influential educator in Washington DC, guiding and inspiring countless African American students.

  • Contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance with plays that explored themes of racial and gender oppression.

  • Advocated for civil rights and women's equality through her art and teaching.

Mary P. Burrill's life was a testament to the power of art as a tool for social change. As a playwright and educator, she broke barriers and addressed critical issues of race and gender, leaving a lasting impact on African American theater and the fight for civil rights. Her commitment to advocacy and education in Washington DC and beyond made her a key figure in American history.

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.

-Matthew Larsen

Poll