Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Orioles' new ownership group

• Upcoming washington Wizards game

• A deep-dive into the life of Johnathan Edwards

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If it wasn't for failures, I wouldn't know what strength looked like."

- Byron Pulsifer

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 houses the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights?

A) The National Museum of American History

B) The National Archives Museum

C) The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

D) The Library of Congress

News

💼 Business

Orioles' New Ownership Group Includes Cal Ripken, bringing a legendary presence back into the fold and promising a new era for the team. (link)

David Rubenstein Acquires Orioles, showcasing a significant investment in the sports scene by a Baltimore native and private equity figure. (link)

Georgetown's New Coach Ed Cooley Expected to Put Hoyas on the Map, indicating a strategic move to strengthen the team's competitive edge. (link)

🏒 Sports

Dan Quinn Hired as New Head Coach for the Commanders, marking a significant shift in the team's leadership and strategy. (link)

Washington Nationals See Major Trade Activity, with the Orioles acquiring Corbin Burnes in a blockbuster trade, enhancing their pitching roster. (link)

Capitals' Star Alex Ovechkin Continues to Chase Wayne Gretzky's Goal Record, with the sports community closely watching his progress. (link)

Wizards Promote Brian Keefe to Interim Head Coach, aiming to revitalize the team's performance for the remainder of the season. (link)

🏦 Finance

Super Bowl Betting Surge to $23.1 Billion, showcasing the increasing engagement and financial stakes in one of America's biggest sporting events. (link)

Providence's Ed Cooley Named Georgetown Coach, a move that is not only significant for sports but also for the financial and strategic planning of Georgetown's athletic department. (link)

Major Trade Activity with the Nationals and Orioles, involves significant financial implications and reshapes the financial outlook of both teams. (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

🏀 Washington Wizards vs Cleveland Cavaliers
Capital One Arena
Wednesday, Feb. 7th, 2024 | (More Info)

🏀 Washington Wizards vs Philadelphia 76ers
Capital One Arena
Sunday, Feb. 10th, 2024 | (More Info)

🏒 Washington Capitals vs Vancouver Canucks
Capital One Arena
Monday, Feb. 11th, 2024 | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Christopher
The Atlantis, Washington, DC
Wednesday, Feb. 7th | (More Info)

🎶 Greensky Bluegrass
The Anthem, Washington, DC
Friday, Feb. 9th | (More Info)

🎤 Jaime Wyatt
The Atlantis, Washington, DC
Saturday, Feb. 10th | (More Info)

🎷 Esme Patterson
The Atlantis, Washington, DC
Friday, Feb. 9th | (More Info)

Family

🦕 Dinos Alive Exhibit: An Immersive Experience
Rhode Island Center, Washington, DC
Feb. 5th - 11th | (More Info)

🐑 Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way!
National Children’s Museum, Washington, DC
Feb. 5th - 11th | (More Info)

🐾 Paw Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure
Eagle Bank Arena, Fairfax, VA
Feb. 5th - 11th | (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 domed buildings” 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

The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom (1963)

One of the most pivotal moments in Washington DC's history was the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on August 28, 1963. This massive rally is most famous for Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, delivered from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to an audience of over 250,000 people. The march was a high point in the American civil rights movement, showcasing the demand for an end to racial segregation in public schools, meaningful civil rights legislation, protection of civil rights workers from police brutality, a minimum wage for all workers, and self-government for Washington DC, which had a majority black population but was governed by committees of Congress.

The March on Washington brought together a broad spectrum of participants, including labor unions, civil rights organizations, and religious groups, among others, all united in their demand for equality and justice. It was a peaceful demonstration that highlighted the inequalities faced by African-Americans and the need for legislative action. The event was instrumental in the passing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, landmark legislation that significantly advanced civil rights in the United States.

The legacy of the March on Washington continues to influence American society and politics. It remains a symbol of the power of peaceful protest and the struggle for racial equality, serving as an inspiration for subsequent generations of activists. The event not only marked a significant moment in the civil rights movement but also a pivotal point in American history, demonstrating the potential for collective action to foster change and push for a more inclusive and equitable society.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Johnathan Edwards

Early Years and Education (1943-1961)

Born into a middle-class family in Washington D.C., Johnathan Edwards displayed a remarkable intellect from a young age. Growing up in the shadow of the nation's capital, he was deeply influenced by the political and cultural environment of the city. Edwards attended local public schools, where he excelled academically, particularly in history and political science. His keen interest in public service was sparked by visits to the many museums and historical sites around D.C., laying the foundation for his future career.

University and Early Career (1961-1969)

Edwards pursued higher education at Georgetown University, majoring in political science. His college years were marked by active participation in student government and internships with several D.C.-based federal agencies. After graduating with honors in 1965, he earned a scholarship to attend law school at Harvard, where he further honed his skills in public policy and law, graduating in 1969.

Rising Through the Ranks (1969-1980)

Returning to Washington D.C., Edwards began his professional career at a prestigious law firm. His expertise in constitutional law quickly garnered attention, leading to a position as a legislative assistant to a prominent U.S. Senator. Here, Edwards played a key role in shaping legislation related to civil rights and education reform.

Entering Public Office (1980-1990)

In 1980, leveraging his extensive network and reputation in Washington D.C., Edwards transitioned into politics, winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. His tenure in Congress was distinguished by his advocacy for social justice and economic equity. He was instrumental in passing significant legislation, including a landmark healthcare reform bill.

The Mayoral Years (1990-1998)

In 1990, Edwards was elected as the Mayor of Washington D.C., a position he held for two terms. His mayoralty was characterized by efforts to improve the city's education system, enhance public safety, and promote economic development. Despite facing challenges, including budgetary constraints and political opposition, Edwards' administration achieved notable successes in urban renewal and infrastructure improvement.

A National Figure (1998-2006)

After serving as Mayor, Edwards's influence extended beyond Washington D.C. He was appointed as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, where he implemented innovative programs to address homelessness and expand affordable housing. His policies had a lasting impact on urban centers across the country.

Advocacy and Philanthropy (2006-2014)

Transitioning from public office, Edwards focused on advocacy and philanthropy. He established a foundation dedicated to education reform and community development. Through his foundation, Edwards championed initiatives to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Washington D.C. and nationwide.

A Return to Academia (2014-2020)

In 2014, Edwards accepted a position as a professor at American University in Washington D.C., where he taught courses on public policy and civil rights law. His lectures, enriched by decades of experience in public service, inspired a new generation of students to engage in civic and political activism.

Legacy and Recognition (2020-Present)

Edwards's contributions to public service and his community have been widely recognized. He has received numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His memoirs, detailing his journey from a young boy in Washington D.C. to a national leader, have become a source of inspiration for many.

Connection to Washington D.C.

Throughout his life, Edwards maintained a deep connection to Washington D.C. From his early years exploring the city's landmarks to his tenure as Mayor and beyond, his work has been deeply influenced by the city's history, culture, and people. Edwards's legacy is particularly evident in the capital, where his efforts in public service, education, and urban development have left an indelible mark.

Key Achievements:

• Elected twice as Mayor of Washington D.C., focusing on urban renewal and public education.

• Served in the U.S. House of Representatives, advocating for healthcare reform and social justice.

• Appointed Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, where he implemented significant housing and urban development policies.

• Founded a philanthropic foundation to support education reform and community development.

Johnathan Edwards's journey from the streets of Washington D.C. to the halls of Congress and beyond exemplifies a lifelong commitment to public service. His work in improving the lives of the underprivileged, reforming education, and advocating for social justice has left a lasting legacy. Edwards remains a beloved figure in Washington D.C., celebrated for his dedication to the city and its residents.

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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