Washington, D.C

Telling our ‘good story’ in Washington, D.C. | Kevin Merrill

Published

2 years ago

May 31, 2022

Telling our ‘good story’ in Washington, D.C. | Kevin Merrill

I’m catching up with this week’s column as final week I used to be in Washington D.C. as a part of the California State Farm Bureau board’s go to with congressional leaders and different governmental companies.

I flew in just a few days early to go to with my sister Mia and her household, who reside in Alexandria, Virginia. We took in a Nationals baseball recreation together with attending a really memorable and galvanizing mass on the Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. The subsequent day I caught up with the opposite 14 board members and Farm Bureau workers for dinner and an replace on our conferences for the week.

Tuesday morning discovered us on the American Farm Bureau headquarters for our board assembly adopted by congressional visits to complete out the day. Congress was in session so a few of conferences had been with workers.

That night after dinner a few of us took benefit of touring the Capitol with Rep. Doug La Malfa, who serves on the Home ag committee from California’s 1st Congressional District, serving Northern California. We arrived on the Capitol round 9:15 p.m. on an attractive spring night in Washington D.C. It was actually inspiring to see the Capitol at night time and be a part of the tour.

The subsequent day our board was damaged up into teams specializing in points starting from commerce and provide chain, catastrophe mitigation and reduction, to immigration and ag labor. I used to be a part of the ag labor group, and centered our consideration on the present H-2A contract employee program together with the Farm Workforce Modernization Act.

California agriculture employs over 840,000 staff per yr. We want stability in that workforce which we don’t have now. The present H-2A program is pricey for growers and solely employs a small variety of ag staff wanted.

It limits their contract with one grower for a specified variety of months in a yr. It doesn’t actually deal with the wants of smaller farms or year-round manufacturing like what is required within the dairy trade, which is California’s prime commodity.

The Farm Workforce Modernization Act would add extra permanence and reliability to our ag workforce together with much-needed flexibility and streamlining into the prevailing H-2A course of. The Home of Representatives has already handed its model of this act, we urged the senators and their staffs to do the identical on their aspect.

We did fairly a little bit of strolling between the places of work of each the Senate and Home of Representatives. We did take the underground Capitol subway, now the up to date computerized prepare that connects the Dirksen Senate workplace constructing and the Rayburn Home workplace constructing with the Capitol. I believe the primary day I walked 5.5 miles across the Capitol going to numerous conferences.

Thursday morning discovered me on the Reagan Nationwide airport at 3:30 a.m. to catch a flight dwelling to San Luis Obispo through the Dallas-Fort Value airport.

Fortunately my connection at Dallas-Fort Value went easily and I used to be capable of make it dwelling to see our daughter Kathleen obtain the excellent scholar award from the Cal Poly Agribusiness Division that night at 5:30 p.m. in San Luis Obispo. An effective way to finish a busy week.

It was nice to spend time with my sister Mia and nephew Sam and I believe our congressional visits had been productive. We have to make the most of with the ability to inform our story in individual, particularly when we’ve an excellent story to inform.

Kevin Merrill of Mesa Winery Administration is a board member of the Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau and a director on the Santa Barbara County Truthful Board. He may be reached at kmerrill@mesavineyard.com

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Washington, D.C

Full moon beams above D.C. to start day of historic heat

Published

2 hours ago

June 22, 2024

Press Room

Full moon beams above D.C. to start day of historic heat

A full moon crossed the skies in the D.C. area Saturday morning, setting the stage for what would be a day of historic heat.

Restlessness, heat-induced inability to sleep or a mere desire to greet the dawn was rewarded around 5:30 a.m. Saturday by the sight of the moon, round and orange, descending toward the western horizon.

It had been perfectly, astronomically full only a few hours earlier, and to the unschooled eye, still appeared spectacularly so as it prepared to vanish from sight with the coming of the dawn.

The sight of the moon has always been imbued with meaning, playing an important role in myth and legend. On Saturday, it could have been viewed as especially portentous, a glowing prelude to daylight hours of history-making heat.

The official reading for the District was 100 degrees, one degree short of the record for the date. However, it was the first time since 2012 that 100 degrees had been reached in D.C. in June, according to the National Weather Service.

At Dulles International Airport, Saturday’s high was 101 degrees.

It broke the Dulles record for the date, which was 99 degrees, reached in 1988. At Baltimore-Washington International Marshall Airport, the mercury reached 100 degrees, breaking a record of 99 set in 1988.

It was the first Saturday since the June 20 solstice, and even without the dramatic guest appearance by the moon, it seemed to live up to expectations for a summer day in the Washington region.

It offered a helping of hot-weather discomfort, but some grounds for enjoyment as well.

Temperatures in the triple digits, even if only briefly, made it indisputably hot. If it wasn’t always 100, it was in the upper 90s for much of the afternoon.

It was also humid, with enough water vapor floating around to frustrate the body’s efforts to cool itself.

It raised feels-like temperatures to 105 in Washington and at BWI.

And the third “h” in the infamous summertime triumvirate also showed itself. It was hazy.

Summer’s vapory haze blurred the shapes and shadows of distant vistas, and imparted a vaguely gray-blue tinge to the sky.

The same haze seemed to join with a sea of clouds in moderating the full fierceness of Saturday’s sun. It was not clear how much less comfortable it might have been otherwise.

On the small scale, far from the movements of great masses of air and strong atmospheric currents, conditions seemed to vary from place to place and from moment to moment.

Comfort, at least of the relative sort, could be found in the shade of a leafy tree. In addition, the outdoor experience became instantly more endurable when a cloud drifted across the face of the sun, producing a widespread shadow.

And a breeze stirred on occasion, whipping at the edges of the blanket of humidity that often could be encountered when the air was still.

To add to the historic nature of the day, and to enhance its memorability quotient, nature seemed to present the moon as a consolation prize to those prevented by the heat from sleeping soundly.

Beaming through the summer haze, it was the very moon that has become legend in American popular culture, for giving romantically inclined songwriters a word to rhyme with June. And spoon and swoon.

It will be close to full again above the D.C. area on Sunday morning.

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Washington, D.C

Man shot in Northeast DC

Published

9 hours ago

June 22, 2024

Press Room

WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said a man was shot in Northeast D.C. on Saturday morning.

Police said that at about 5:40 a.m., they were dispatched to Unit block of M St for the report of a shooting.

MPD said the man was not conscious and not breathing normally.

He was transported to the hospital with critical injuries.

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Washington, D.C

9 Great Things to Do in Washington, DC in June 2024 – wyandottedaily.com

Published

16 hours ago

June 22, 2024

Press Room

9 Great Things to Do in Washington, DC in June 2024 – wyandottedaily.com

Washington, DC is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. The balmy June weather makes it the perfect time to explore the city’s many outdoor attractions, from the National Mall to the Smithsonian museums. There are also plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, such as visiting the White House or the International Spy Museum. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, or just a fun day out, Washington, DC has something for you. Here are 9 great things to do in Washington, DC in June 2024:

1. Visit the National Mall

The National Mall is a 2-mile-long park that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building. It’s home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. In June, the National Mall is a great place to enjoy a picnic, go for a walk, or simply take in the sights. You can also take a ranger-led tour of the Mall to learn more about its history and significance.

2. Explore the Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex. It comprises 19 museums, 9 research centers, and the National Zoo. The Smithsonian museums are free to enter, making them a great option for budget-minded travelers. In June, the Smithsonian museums offer a variety of special exhibitions, programs, and events. You can check the Smithsonian website for a full list of what’s happening during your visit. Some popular Smithsonian museums include the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History.

3. Visit the White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. It’s one of the most iconic buildings in the world and a must-see for any visitor to Washington, DC. Tours of the White House are free, but they must be booked in advance. You can book a tour online or by calling the White House Visitor’s Office. Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s important to arrive early. If you’re not able to get a tour, you can still take a walk around the White House and admire its beautiful architecture.

4. Visit the International Spy Museum

The International Spy Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of espionage throughout history. The museum has a collection of over 1,000 artifacts, including spy gadgets, weapons, and vehicles. You’ll learn about the history of espionage, from the ancient Egyptians to the modern era. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, where you can test your own spy skills. The International Spy Museum is a great place to visit for adults and children alike.

5. Take a walk or bike ride along the Potomac River

The Potomac River is a beautiful river that flows through Washington, DC. There are several trails along the river that are perfect for walking, running, or biking. You can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial. You can also rent a kayak or canoe and explore the river from a different perspective. The Potomac River is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

6. Visit the National Zoo

The National Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from all over the world. The zoo is free to enter, making it a great option for families. You can see animals such as lions, tigers, elephants, gorillas, and pandas. The zoo also has a number of educational programs and exhibits. You can learn about the animals and their habitats, and you can even get up close and personal with some of the animals. The National Zoo is a fun and educational place to visit for all ages.

7. Attend a concert or show at the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances. The Kennedy Center is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the Washington National Opera, and the Washington Ballet. In June, the Kennedy Center offers a variety of special events, such as outdoor concerts and free performances. You can check the Kennedy Center website for a full list of what’s happening during your visit.

8. Visit a farmer’s market

Washington, DC is home to several farmer’s markets that offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and other products. Farmer’s markets are a great way to support local farmers and get fresh, healthy food. You can also find a variety of prepared foods, such as sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. Farmer’s markets are a great place to visit for a bite to eat or to stock up on groceries. Some popular farmer’s markets in Washington, DC include the Dupont Circle FreshFarm Market, the Eastern Market, and the Georgetown Farmers’ Market.

9. Explore the U Street Corridor

The U Street Corridor is a vibrant and historic neighborhood in Washington, DC. The neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also find live music venues, art galleries, and theaters. The U Street Corridor is a great place to spend an evening or afternoon. You can grab a bite to eat, see a show, or simply people-watch. The neighborhood is also home to the African American Civil War Museum and the Howard University Museum. These museums tell the story of African Americans in Washington, DC, and their contributions to the city and the nation.

Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, Best Hotels, Conclusion

Washington, DC is a city with a rich culture and history. The city is home to a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sites. It’s also a great place to experience the arts, with a variety of theaters, concert halls, and art galleries. Washington, DC is a great city to visit any time of year, but June is an especially nice time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities to enjoy. You can easily get around Washington, DC by using the city’s public transportation system. The Metro is a subway system that can take you to most of the city’s major attractions. You can also use the city’s buses or taxis to get around.

Washington, DC has a variety of local food options to choose from. You can find everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Some of the city’s most popular dishes include half-smokes, Ben’s Chili Bowl, and Ethiopian food. You can also find a variety of restaurants that cater to vegetarians and vegans. Washington, DC has a variety of hotels to choose from, to fit all budgets. Some of the city’s most popular hotels include The Willard InterContinental, The Hay-Adams, and The Jefferson Hotel. No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in Washington, DC.

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