Martin Austermuhle

2 weeks ago | 51st.news | Martin Austermuhle |Foram Mehta |India Kea

A group of progressive activists say they are planning a push to put a measure on the D.C. ballot that, if approved by voters, would prohibit the 174-acre RFK site from being used for a new football stadium. The proposed ballot initiative – tentatively titled “Homes Not Stadiums” – would specify that the site would have to be zoned instead for housing, retail, parks, and recreation. “We’re trying to prioritize things for housing.

2 weeks ago | 51st.news | Martin Austermuhle |Foram Mehta |India Kea

I’ve been writing and reporting on the D.C. Council for years, and it’s easy to assume that everyone else has the same nerdy interest in our distinct legislative branch and the role it plays in governing our fair city. Many people have lives, though, so I’ll concede that deciphering the council’s processes and the sometimes convoluted path a bill takes to become a law isn’t what you might consider a fun weekday activity.

2 weeks ago | 51st.news | Martin Austermuhle |Foram Mehta |India Kea |Colleen Grablick

Every Thursday, we list some ways to get engaged in the city – whether that’s protesting, organizing with your neighbors, or testifying before your councilmembers. For more ways to get connected, check out our resources roundup. Ayuda's spring event: Stand with immigrantsJoin community members, advocates, and policymakers for a night of fundraising with Ayuda, a group that provides legal, social, and translation services to immigrant families across the D.C. region.

2 weeks ago | 51st.news | Martin Austermuhle |Foram Mehta |India Kea

It’s that magical time of year — sunshine, birdsong, and streets covered in petals … and pollen. While the cherry blossom frenzy may be over, locals have plenty of ways to enjoy the long-awaited break from winter's chill. Here’s a roundup of can’t-miss events to make the most of the season. Georgetown Flower TourVisit 12 participating small businesses to collect flowers and greens to build a hand-made bouquet to spruce up your home.

2 weeks ago | 51st.news | Martin Austermuhle |India Kea |Foram Mehta

When my husband and I moved to D.C. four years ago, my number one requirement was an outdoor gardening space. We found that in Petworth, which — to my pleasant surprise — is home to a robust plant community. Come springtime, it’s common to find neighbors exchanging seeds at the library, giving away extra sprouts on Facebook, and weeding their plots in preparation for a hot summer that generally yields an abundance of fruits and vegetables.