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Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Virginia could soon see the return of a Fortune 500 company

• Upcoming Washington Nationals match

• A deep-dive into the life of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.”

– Og Mandino

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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!

Which Washington DC museum focuses on the human impact of war, featuring personal stories and artifacts from conflicts around the world?

A) The National World War II Museum

B) The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

C) The National Museum of American History

D) The American War Letters Museum

Answer to Week 27's Trivia:

The street in Washington DC famous for its diplomatic missions and historic mansions is B) Massachusetts Avenue, also known as Embassy Row

News

💼Business

DCA begins planning for replacement of Terminal 1 gates. (Link)

Virginia could soon see the return of a Fortune 500 company. (Link)

🏒Sports

Nationals reliever Kyle Finnegan added to N.L. All-Star team. (Link)

NFL training camps get underway as rookies begin to report. (Link)

🏦Finance

Chevy Chase real estate investor establishes new firm with private equity backing. (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

⚾ Cincinnati Reds at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Saturday, Jul. 20th and Sunday, Jul. 21st | (More info)

⚾ San Diego Padres at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Tuesday, Jul. 23rd to Thursday, Jul. 25th | (More info)

Concerts

🎵Zeds Dead
Echostage, Washington, DC
Friday, Jul. 19th | (More info)

🎵Olivia Rodrigo
Capital One Arena, Washington, DC
Saturday, Jul. 20th | (More info)

Family-Friendly Events

🎨Kiddle Karoo
1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA
Saturday, July 20th | (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 where each district represents a different season” 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

Oklahoma City Bombing (1995) - The nation's response to this tragedy, including memorial services and legislative actions, involves significant activities in D.C.

The Oklahoma City bombing on April 19, 1995, marked one of the most harrowing domestic terrorism events in United States history, claiming 168 lives and leaving over 600 injured. The bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, executed by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, brought the nation to a standstill, eliciting a wave of mourning and solidarity across the country. In the wake of this tragedy, the nation's response was both immediate and profound, encompassing public expressions of grief, memorial services, and significant legislative actions aimed at preventing such an event from occurring again.

In Washington, D.C., the response was multifaceted. The President at the time, Bill Clinton, took an active role in addressing the nation's shock and grief, visiting the site, and speaking at memorial services to honor the victims. His message focused on unity, resilience, and the importance of justice for the victims and their families. Meanwhile, the nation's capital hosted various memorial services, prayer vigils, and moments of silence, providing a space for collective mourning and reflection. These acts of remembrance and solidarity were important for grieving families and the nation as a whole, reinforcing the collective identity and resilience of the American people.

Legislatively, the Oklahoma City bombing led to significant changes in U.S. policies and laws, with a notable impact on national security measures. The Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996 was one of the critical outcomes, signed into law by President Clinton. This act broadened the powers of law enforcement to prevent and respond to acts of terrorism, changing the landscape of American security and counterterrorism efforts. Additionally, there was a concerted effort to enhance the security of federal buildings across the nation to protect against future threats. These measures underscored the enduring impact of the Oklahoma City bombing on the nation's approach to domestic terrorism, shaping policies and legislative actions in Washington D.C., and beyond to ensure the safety and security of the United States.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings (1896–1953)

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings was an American author renowned for her work The Yearling, which earned her the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. Her life and writings reflect a deep connection to the rural South, capturing the struggles and beauty of its inhabitants with vivid authenticity.

Early Years and Education (1896-1918)

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings was born in 1896 in Washington, D.C., to a family where literature and education were highly valued. Her early exposure to the power of storytelling and writing profoundly influenced her future career. She attended the University of Wisconsin, where her passion for writing flourished, earning a degree in English that would lay the foundation for her literary pursuits.

Washington D.C. and Early Career (1919-1928)

Following her education, Rawlings returned to Washington D.C., where she embarked on her career, working for the YWCA and later as a feature writer for the Washington Post. This period in the nation's capital was crucial for Rawlings, as it not only honed her writing skills but also expanded her professional network, setting the stage for her future success as an author.

A New Life in Florida (1928-1938)

In 1928, seeking a change and inspired by the natural beauty of the South, Rawlings and her husband purchased an orange grove in Cross Creek, Florida. This decision marked a turning point in her life and career. The Florida landscape and its residents became the central subjects of her most famous works, providing an authentic backdrop that brought her stories to life.

The Yearling and Pulitzer Prize Recognition (1938-1939)

The Yearling, published in 1938, is perhaps Rawlings' most celebrated work. Set in the rural Florida wilderness, it tells the story of a young boy and his pet fawn, exploring themes of survival and loss. The novel's critical and commercial success culminated in Rawlings receiving the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1939, cementing her status as a leading American author.

Continued Literary Success (1940-1949)

Following the success of The Yearling, Rawlings continued to write and publish, exploring different genres, including autobiography and cooking, further showcasing her versatility as an author. Her subsequent works, such as Cross Creek and The Sojourner, were well-received, adding to her literary acclaim.

Life at Cross Creek (1930s-1950s)

Marjorie's life in Cross Creek deeply influenced her writing and personal philosophy. Her daily interactions with the land and its people provided a rich tapestry of experiences that she skillfully translated into her literary works. Rawlings' dedication to capturing the essence of rural life earned her the respect of her subjects and readers alike.

Controversies and Legal Battles (1940s)

Rawlings' vivid portrayal of her neighbors in Cross Creek led to some controversy, most notably a libel suit brought against her by Zelma Cason, a resident of Cross Creek, which challenged Rawlings both personally and professionally. Despite the challenges, these experiences deepened Rawlings' connection to the region and its people.

Final Years and Legacy (1950-1953)

In her final years, Rawlings' contribution to American literature was recognized through various honors and awards, though she faced health challenges. Her passing in 1953 marked the end of a remarkable literary career, but her works continue to resonate with readers, serving as a testament to her talent and her profound connection to the American South.

Key Achievements of Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings:

• Authored The Yearling, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1939.

• Created a body of work that vividly portrays rural life in the American South, contributing to the region's literary heritage.

• Recognized posthumously for her contributions to American literature and culture.

• Her home in Cross Creek, Florida, is a National Historic Landmark, preserving her legacy and influence on American literature.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings remains a pivotal figure in American literature, renowned for her vivid portrayal of rural South life. Her masterpiece, The Yearling, not only won the Pulitzer Prize but also deeply touched its readers, reflecting universal themes of love, loss, and survival. Rawlings' legacy extends beyond her literary accomplishments; she is remembered for her profound connection to the landscape and people of the South, immortalizing her affection and respect for them through her enduring works.

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-Matthew Larsen

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