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Welcome to The Washington D.C. Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Westly Group to fund local startups

• Upcoming Shauna Dean Cokeland concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Patricia Roberts Harris

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“When a person really desires something, all the universe conspires to help that person to realize his dream.”

– Paulo Coelho

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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 is the largest privately-owned museum in the city, focusing on the news media and journalism?

A) The Newseum

B) The National Museum of American History

C) The Museum of the Bible

D) The Spy Museum

Answer to Week 24's Trivia:

The historic island in Washington DC that is a dedicated memorial to a civil rights leader, accessible via footbridge from the Georgetown waterfront, is A) Theodore Roosevelt Island

News

💼 Business

The Westly Group opens D.C. office to fund local startups. (Link)

Businesses in D.C. Blame the Government for the District's Empty Offices. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Washington DC sports betting handle reaches record $35.4m in May. (Link)

Four-star center from Washington, D.C., reportedly commits to Virginia Tech basketball team. (Link)

🏦 Finance

NoMa affordable housing apartments will have amenities that include personal finance classes. (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

⚾ St Louis Cardinals at Washington Nationals
Nationals Park, Washington, DC
Monday Jul. 8th | (More info)

⚽ Chicago Cubs vs. Baltimore Orioles
Oriole Park, Baltimore, MD
Tuesday, Jul. 9th | (More info)

Concerts

🎵 Shauna Dean Cokeland
2021 F St NW, Washington, DC
Tuesday, July 9 | (More info)

🎵 Roxxy Haze
1523 22nd St NW, Washington, DC
Wednesday, July 10 | (More info)

Family-Friendly Events

🎉Danny Go!
7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons, VA
Sunday, July 14 | (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 “An entirely underground Washington DC” 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

Challenger Space Shuttle Disaster (1986) - The nation mourns the loss of seven astronauts, with memorials and tributes in D.C.

On January 28, 1986, the United States faced one of its most harrowing tragedies in the field of space exploration when the Space Shuttle Challenger broke apart just 73 seconds after liftoff, leading to the deaths of all seven crew members onboard. This catastrophic event unfolded before the eyes of a nation, as millions watched in horror, many of them schoolchildren witnessing live coverage because of the presence of Christa McAuliffe, who would have been the first teacher in space. The Challenger disaster not only paused the space shuttle program but also led to a profound national introspection about the risks and aspirations of manned space exploration.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the nation sought ways to mourn and honor the memories of the crew: Francis R. Scobee, Michael J. Smith, Ronald McNair, Ellison Onizuka, Judith Resnik, Gregory Jarvis, and Christa McAuliffe. Washington D.C., as the nation's capital, became a focal point for memorials and tributes. High-profile commemorations and services took place, attended by dignitaries, NASA officials, and the families of the astronauts, serving both as public expressions of grief and as symbols of national unity and resilience in the face of tragedy.

Notably, individual and collective memorials arose, including dedications and the establishment of scholarships in the names of the crew members to inspire future generations. The Challenger Center for Space Science Education was founded by the families of the astronauts, continuing the educational mission that McAuliffe symbolized. Across Washington D.C. and the nation, these acts of remembrance and the Challenger disaster itself have had a lasting impact, reminding us of the human cost of exploration and the courage of those who venture into the unknown.

Famous People From Washington D.C.

Patricia Roberts Harris (1924–1985)

Born in Mattoon, Illinois, Patricia Roberts Harris showed early promise as a student in a world where the odds were stacked against her due to her race and gender. Her academic excellence led her to Howard University, where she graduated summa cum laude. Her time at Howard was the foundation for a life committed to civil rights and public service.

Furthering Her Education and Commitment to Civil Rights (1946-1953)

After completing her undergraduate studies, Harris continued her education at the University of Chicago and New York University, where she pursued graduate studies in industrial relations. Her decision to attend law school at George Washington University, where she was the first African American woman to be admitted, further demonstrated her determination to break barriers and her commitment to civil rights.

A Rising Star in Public Service and the Legal Profession (1954-1960)

Harris quickly made her mark in the legal profession, becoming one of the first African American women to work for the U.S. Department of Justice. Her legal acumen and commitment to justice propelled her career forward, leading to her involvement in various government agencies and non-profit organizations dedicated to civil rights and social welfare.

Harris's Role in the Johnson Administration (1961-1968)

During the Johnson Administration, Harris's career in public service reached new heights. She served as the ambassador to Luxembourg, becoming the first African American woman to hold the position of a U.S. ambassador. Her diplomatic service was a testament to her skill and dedication to representing her country abroad.

Champion of Housing and Urban Development (1969-1977)

As Harris's government service continued, she made significant contributions to the field of housing and urban development. Her efforts aimed at improving urban housing, fighting discrimination in housing, and enhancing urban renewal projects marked her as a champion for those living in America's cities.

Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare (1977-1980)

In 1977, Harris achieved another historic milestone when President Jimmy Carter appointed her as the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, making her the first African American woman to serve in a presidential cabinet. Her leadership in this role highlighted her commitment to education, health care, and social services, impacting millions of Americans.

Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (1979-1981)

Continuing her groundbreaking path, Harris was appointed Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, where her policies and programs aimed at improving urban development and expanding affordable housing solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in government.

A Lifelong Dedication to Law and Education (1981-1985)

After her tenure in the Carter Administration, Harris returned to her roots in law and education, serving as a professor at George Washington University. Her return to academia allowed her to share her vast experience with future generations, mentoring young lawyers and public servants.

Connection to Washington DC

Harris's connection to Washington DC was profound, spanning her professional and personal life. It was here that she made her mark as a legal professional, a government official, and an educator. Washington DC was not only the backdrop to her groundbreaking career but also home to her most significant achievements and contributions to American society.

Remembering Patricia Roberts Harris (1985 and Beyond)

Patricia Roberts Harris passed away in 1985, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer for African American women in law, government, and education. Her dedication to public service, her fight for civil rights, and her outstanding achievements marked her as one of the most influential African American women of the 20th century.

Key Achievements of Patricia Roberts Harris:

• First African American woman to serve in the U.S. Cabinet.

• Served as the U.S. ambassador to Luxembourg, the first African American woman in the role.

• Chaired the board of Howard University, emphasizing her commitment to education.

• Pioneered urban housing and development policies as Secretary of HUD.

• Distinguished legal and academic career, mentoring the next generation of public servants.

Patricia Roberts Harris's groundbreaking career in public service and education was marked by a series of firsts that shattered racial and gender barriers. Her dedication to civil rights, affordable housing, and healthcare significantly impacted American society, making her a role model for future generations. Harris’s life and work continue to inspire those committed to social justice and public service.

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

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