How the D.C. Council works
Plus, more Wilson Building happenings, gardening tips, a spring events guide, and more.
Hey everyone,
We're back with another week of local news! In this edition, we have an explainer on how the D.C. Council works, dispatches from the Wilson Building (including a push to stop the stadium at RFK), some expert tips for District gardeners, our 29 picks for spring events, and a rundown of Ovechkin celebrations.
Keep scrolling for our Overheard of the Week (and how to submit your own), ways to get civically engaged, and some headlines you may have missed.
Enjoy,
– Christina Sturdivant Sani
Everything you need to know about the D.C. Council
Deciphering the D.C. Council’s processes and sometimes convoluted lawmaking isn’t what most people consider a fun weekday activity. Fortunately, this stuff is a thrill for The 51st Contributor Martin Austermuhle, who wrote this introductory guide to the council and its broad portfolio of responsibilities.
Wilson Building Bulletin: A push to stop a stadium at RFK
A group of progressive activists is pushing to add a measure on the D.C. ballot that would prohibit the city from building a new football stadium at the old RFK site. They want the 174-acre swath of land zoned for housing, retail, parks, and recreation.
Climate change is making gardening in D.C. harder. Don't let that stop you.
In recent years, the District’s four distinct seasons have become more like two, with erratic and unpredictable swings between hot and cold. But even as the effects of climate change advance, there are strategies to create more climate-resistant gardens. We talked to experts and rounded up some tips to help you adapt.
D.C. in Bloom: 29 events to celebrate spring
While the cherry blossom frenzy may be over, locals have plenty of ways to enjoy the long-awaited break from winter's chill. From festivals and markets to garden tours and art workshops, check out our guide to make the most of the season.
DCish: Ovechkin overtakes Gretzky's record
Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin made history last Sunday when he notched his 895th goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky to become the NHL’s all-time leading scorer. To celebrate, the team is planning a formal ceremony and public event. A mural⬆was also painted in his honor.
Peace Day and more workshops: Your weekly Civics Roundup
There are plenty of ways to get engaged in the city this week: A fundraiser for immigrant families, an update on Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil, a digital security workshop, and more.
In the midst of often exhausting news cycles, it's always fun for us to round up some Overheards. And we know you love reading them! Now, we've made it easier for you to submit. Just fill out this brief form to share the weird, entertaining, and juicy convos you hear on the streets of D.C.
At Nats Park: 20-something guy to 20-something woman: “I’ve actually been trying to stop drinking so I can smoke more.”
Here's more news you may have missed this week:
- D.C. police are launching a new unit focused on youth crime, even as youth offenses decline from pandemic highs. [The Post]
- Meanwhile, at least 20 D.C. police officers may be fired for pandemic loan fraud. [WCP]
- Editorial: The impacts of whitewashing American history. [The Informer]
- Local parents, students, and organizers brace for the possibility of a significant cut to D.C.'s budget. [The Informer]
- Techstars launches a new accelerator for early-stage healthcare startups in the D.C. area. [Technical.ly]
- How accurate is Shonda Rhimes's new White House detective show? [Washingtonian]
- Banh mi, Japanese curry, scallion bubble pancakes, and other editor-recommended dishes to try around the region. [Eater]
That's all for now. Until next time!
– Christina
