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Smithsonian Took Brains From D.C.'s Most Vulnerable

Extensive reporting from The Washington Post has revealed that the Smithsonian took advantage of D.C.’s most vulnerable residents to collect their brains and other body parts in the first half of the 1900s. The report reveals that the National Museum of Natural History has not returned the majority of the remains, even though most appear to have been taken without consent. [Washington Post 🔒]

Anxiety Sets in for Chinatown Businesses

Restaurants and bars surrounding Capital One Arena in Chinatown worry that they’ll shutter given the likely impending departure of the Washington Capitals and Wizards. Owners are speaking out about how the already struggling area would be even more desolate if these two teams leave. Celebrity chef José Andrés, who has many Chinatown restaurants, wrote, “I hope these teams can stay in the city that’s shown so much support.” [Washingtonian, City Cast DC 🎧]

Chevy Chase Redevelopment

Chevy Chase’s ANC endorsed a controversial redevelopment of the neighborhood’s library and community center. The commissioners support some housing on the site but also want building height capped at 60 feet. [DCist]

What To Do

DC Insider Trivia

Before we get to the trivia of the day, let’s answer last week’s question:

What is the D.C. flag based on?

1. Three stars representing D.C., Maryland, and Virginia and two stripes for D.C.’s two rivers.
2. George Washington’s coat of arms
3. Calvert family coat of arms
4. It’s a take on the American flag

The design for the D.C. flag was based on the personal coat of arms of George Washington, which was almost identical. The design was created by Charles Dunn and it was adopted in 1938.

Since the flag was federally appointed and local groups were not involved in the selection process, many Washingtonians at first saw the flag as a symbol of their lack of representation, but they’ve really reclaimed it since. Interestingly, the stars are actually called mullets, because they originated on a coat of arms.

🏅 Congratulations to Hey DC readers Liz B., Joan L. (again!), and Eddy S. for being the first three to get the question right!

Now, for this week's trivia:

What D.C. establishment is also where the Lincoln assassination was planned?

1. Ford’s Theater
2. Wok and Roll Karaoke
3. The Mayflower Hotel
4. Union Pub

Today on City Cast

Bowser's Response to 'Monumental' Loss, and RIP Harrington Hotel

Cuneyt Dil from Axios joins us to analyze the political fallout of the shocking announcement that the Wizards and the Capitals are leaving D.C. for Virginia. Plus, RIP D.C.’s least-beloved old hotel, a move that also tells a story of the city’s troubled downtown.

Psst. Our team is hustling to get you the latest on this arena debacle. Help us help you by becoming a member!