Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Mayor Muriel Bowser plans to promote restaurants Downtown

• Upcoming Washington Capitals home game

• A deep-dive into the life of George Washington

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Whether you think you can or you can't, either way you are right.”

-Henry Ford

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 Washington DC museum is the largest and oldest museum of African American history and culture in the United States?

A) The National Museum of African American History and Culture

B) The Smithsonian American Art Museum

C) The National Gallery of Art

D) The National Museum of American History

Answer to Last Week’s Trivia:

Which Washington DC museum houses the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights?

B) The National Archives Museum

News

💼 Business

Mayor Muriel Bowser launched "Be Downtown Specials" at Roasting Plant Coffee to promote over 40 restaurants and 10 coffee shops across Downtown DC, offering specials through March​​. (link)

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) proposed a FY25 budget avoiding station closures and service reductions, despite a potential 12.5% fare hike​​. (link)

DC leaders project the city to welcome 150,000 new residents in coming decades, aiming for higher density and urban development​​. (link)

🏒 Sports

Washington Commanders expressed excitement and curiosity with the hiring of Dan Quinn as the new head coach, replacing Ron Rivera​​. (link)

The Washington Commanders hired Joe Whitt Jr. as their new defensive coordinator, joining Kliff Kingsbury on new head coach Dan Quinn's staff​​. (link)

The Washington Capitals suffered their 5th consecutive loss, falling 5-2 to the Montreal Canadiens​​. (link)

Ted Leonsis clarified that crime had little influence on his decision to move the Washington Wizards and Capitals to a new arena in Alexandria’s Potomac Yard​​. (link)

🏦 Finance

DC's commercial property values decreased by approximately $11 billion over the past two years, leading to a significant drop in tax revenue​​. (link)

The WMATA proposed a budget for FY25 including a 12.5% fare hike but aims to avoid station closings and service reductions​​. (link)

A report card criticized DC schools for failing to adequately teach students personal finance skills​​. (link)

The U.S. Department of State hosted a Federal Contractors Networking event in Washington D.C. on February 12, focusing on engagement with small and disadvantaged businesses​​. (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

🏀 Capital City Go-Go vs College Park Skyhawks
Entertainment & Sports Arena, Washington, DC
Tuesday, Feb. 12th | (More Info)

🏒 Washington Capitals vs Colorado Avalanche (Law Enforcement Appreciation)
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Wednesday, Feb. 13th | (More Info)

🥍 Premier Lacrosse League
The St. James, Washington, DC
Thursday, Feb. 14th | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Victor Manuelle
JFK Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, DC
Saturday, Feb. 16th | (More Info)

🎤 No Vacation
The Atlantis, Washington, DC
Monday, Feb. 12th | (More Info)

🎶 Sammy Rae & The Friends
9:30 Club, Washington, DC
Saturday, Feb. 17th | (More Info)

🎷 Saxsquatch
The Atlantis, Washington, DC
Wednesday, Feb. 14th | (More Info)

Family

🎨 Presidential Family Fun Day
National Portrait Gallery, Washington, DC
Sunday, Feb. 17th | (More Info)

⛸ Ice Skating with Anacostia Children
Washington DC
Sunday, Feb. 17th | (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 skyline with floating gardens and skyscrapers” 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

Founding of Washington D.C. (1790)

The founding of Washington D.C. in 1790 marks a significant milestone in American history, as it represents the establishment of the nation's capital on the banks of the Potomac River. This pivotal event was precipitated by the Residence Act, which was passed by the United States Congress on July 16, 1790. The Act stipulated that a new federal district would be created for the purpose of serving as the seat of government, and President George Washington was granted the authority to select the precise location for this district.

Washington's decision to place the capital on the Potomac River was strategic, aiming to foster unity among the newly formed states while also positioning the capital in a geographically central location. The selection of the site, encompassing land from Maryland and Virginia, reflected Washington's vision for a neutral and accessible seat of government. The establishment of Washington D.C. not only solidified the nation's identity but also symbolized the ideals of democracy and governance upon which the United States was founded.

The founding of Washington D.C. laid the foundation for the nation's political and cultural landscape, shaping the course of American history for centuries to come. As the capital city, Washington D.C. has served as a beacon of democracy, hosting pivotal events and housing the institutions of government that uphold the principles of liberty and justice for all. The resonance of this historic event continues to be felt today, as Washington D.C. remains a symbol of American unity and aspiration.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

George Washington (1732–1799)

Early Life and Military Career (1732–1783)

Born in 1732 in Westmoreland County, Virginia, George Washington emerged as a pivotal figure in American history. From humble beginnings, he rose to prominence through his leadership during the American Revolutionary War, where he played a central role in securing independence from British rule. Washington's military prowess and unwavering commitment to the cause earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Presidency and the Formation of Washington, D.C. (1789–1799)

In 1789, George Washington was unanimously elected as the first President of the United States, tasked with guiding a nascent nation through its formative years. During his presidency, he faced numerous challenges, including establishing a functioning government and fostering unity among the states. One of Washington's enduring legacies was his vision for a purpose-built capital city, which led to the establishment of Washington, D.C., as the nation's capital in 1790.

Shaping the Capital and Legacy (1790–1799)

Although George Washington never lived to see the completion of the White House or the full realization of his vision for Washington, D.C., his influence on the city's development was profound. As a staunch advocate for the nation's capital, he oversaw the selection of its site along the Potomac River and played a central role in its planning and design. Washington's leadership and foresight laid the groundwork for the grandeur and significance that Washington, D.C., would come to embody as the political and cultural heart of the United States.

Key Achievements:

• Led the American Revolutionary War to victory, securing independence for the United States.

• Served as the first President of the United States, overseeing the formation of a new government.

• Advocated for and influenced the establishment of Washington, D.C., as the nation's capital, shaping its development and legacy.

George Washington's legacy as a founding father and statesman endures as a cornerstone of American history. His leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to the principles of democracy continue to inspire generations of Americans and shape the nation's identity. In Washington, D.C., his presence is felt in the city's architecture, monuments, and institutions, serving as a reminder of his enduring impact on the United States and its capital.

Connect With Me

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

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

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