The National Guard remains here, to the dismay of much of the local population, but there were lots of interesting things to see this past week.
H Street Festival
The 20th annual H Street Festival brought happy crowds on ten blocks of H Street.







National Mall of Pickleball
The National Mall of Pickleball returned for its third year, “highlighting the true and inherent aspects of the game – inclusivity and accessibility – and the role pickleball serves in creating community.”




New museum
The Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream opened last weekend, to promote the ideal that “no matter who you are or where you come from, you should have the opportunity to build the life you want to live.” It’s in the old Riggs Bank building diagonally across Pennsylvania Avenue from the White House, and retains much of the original architecture. free, tickets required




Curefest for Childhood Cancer
CureFest for Childhood Cancer had three days of advocacy and community. It was especially moving to see the memorial and survivors’ walls set up on Freedom Plaza.


Peace Vigil
Following President Trump’s orders, the long-running Peace Vigil in Lafayette Park was taken down – part of it two weeks ago, and the remaining large signs a few days ago. Despite this, volunteers remain there, especially Philipos Melaku-Bello, who has been the primary steward of the vigil for many years.


Cleaning up Joseph Henry
The statue of Joseph Henry, the first secretary of the Smithsonian, has stood in front of the Castle since 1883 and is in the process of getting cleaned and restored. We expect that we’ll see lots more things being spruced up in time for America’s 250th birthday.

Last hummingbird of the season?
Most of the hummingbirds have left the area, but we were lucky to see one bird still here.

Wow — you guys really covered it all! And it was refreshing that, with the exception of the Peace Vigil, the photos were positive and uplifting. Great job by all … with special kudos to Rob’s amazing hummingbird shot.
Thanks, Jeff!