City Cast DC

Dr. Joseph Richardson, M-Power Professor at UMD and co-chair of D.C.'s Homicide Review Committee, researches community violence intervention strategies. He explains why Baltimore’s sustained CVI plan worked. He describes day-to-day violence interrupter work and why D.C.’s 30-year low has unclear causes. He warns that success can trigger funding cuts and discusses federal and private funding challenges.

Mark Seagraves, an on-the-ground NBC4 reporter, walks through major DC headlines. He unpacks the confusing paperwork around Eleanor Holmes Norton’s campaign end. He breaks down the massive raw sewage spill into the Potomac and the containment plan using the C&O Canal. He also shares vivid accounts of the recent snowy, icy storm and its impacts on daily life.

Kayla Cody-Stemmerman, City Cast DC contributor and local guide, shares quick neighborhood tips for winter outings. She highlights cozy dive bars, luxe speakeasies, and spots with real fires. She also points to comforting cafes, bougie hot chocolate, and where to find warm, unhurried third places around DC.

Alex Koma, a reporter at WAMU focusing on D.C. politics, joins the conversation to unpack the complexities surrounding the recent appointment of Donnie Crawford to the council. He explores the unique process behind her selection and the potential impact of her policies. They also delve into the controversial speed cameras in D.C., examining their revenue generation versus safety implications. Jessica Sidman from Washingtonian shares insights on compiling the top 100 restaurants in D.C., highlighting top picks like Albi and Jaunt that elevate dining experiences.

Michael Pope, a pivotal reporter and host of The Virginia Press Room podcast, delves into the recent historic inauguration of Virginia's first female governor, Abigail Spanberger. He highlights the Democratic trifecta's impact on legislative priorities like affordability and redistricting. Key topics include proposed measures for affordable housing, paid sick leave, and automatic minimum wage adjustments. Additionally, Pope discusses upcoming ballot measures, immigration bills, and the strategic implications for the 2027 elections.

Philip Kennicott, a Washington Post art critic and cultural expert, dives into the shocking news that the Washington National Opera is leaving the Kennedy Center. He explains how this departure signals a cultural crisis, affecting donations and attendance. The conversation touches on the impact of controversial naming and financial models that have hurt the arts. Kennicott warns of a ripple effect leading to more cancellations and emphasizes the importance of a world-class symphony for Washington’s cultural landscape, while also highlighting opportunities for smaller arts groups.

Austin Graff, a City Cast DC contributor and parenting guide, shares essential strategies for securing summer camps in Washington, D.C. He emphasizes the importance of early planning, especially in January, given the competitive camp landscape. Austin discusses the impact of local shifts on camp availability and offers resources for finding the best options, from local blogs to school networks. He also shares insights on budgeting for camps and balancing family vacations, ensuring a summer that aligns with both budget and family lifestyle.

We’re talking about the Washington Opera’s departure from the Kennedy Center, the FBI searching a Washington Post reporter’s house, and more furor over DC police working with ICE. Plus, in a members only fourth segment — and a dose of fun in a tough week – we’ll talk about the great Congressional Cellphone Caper, in which a staffer stole 240 smartphones from Congress. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can text us or leave a voicemail at: (202) 642-2654. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month. Learn more about the sponsors of this January 16th episode: Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE

Jenny Abamu, a reporter at WAMU specializing in data center development, dives into the booming AI data center scene in the DC metro area. She explains why Northern Virginia became a hub for these facilities and discusses the local resistance from various community groups concerned about environmental impacts and rising electric bills. While data centers promise tax revenue, their limited job creation raises eyebrows. Abamu also highlights the ongoing debates in Prince George's County about placing data centers in less dense areas to mitigate issues.

Tracey Hadden Loh runs a program at Brookings that compiles economic data about the DC area — which means she tends to be a step ahead when it comes to noticing, like, blinking danger signs about how our region is doing. As you can imagine, her phone’s been ringing off the hook in this year of DOGE and dislocation. Luckily for us, she answered when we called, and is here today to share some new data about a weird plunge in DMV consumer spending and what it might mean for you and me. Want some more DC news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey DC. You can text us or leave a voicemail at: (202) 642-2654. You can also become a member, with ad-free listening, for as little as $10 a month.  Learn more about the sponsors of this January 14th episode: Folger Shakespeare Library Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE.