The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is nearing the end of its multiyear renovations, with new galleries and an IMAX theater set to open in spring 2025. The museum, which began construction in 2018, is open during renovations and plans to unveil 12 galleries and exhibits by July 2026, coinciding with its 50th anniversary. Notable future exhibits include 'At Home in Space', 'Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight', and 'Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall'. The museum had closed in March 2022 for extensive renovations and reopened in October with eight new exhibits.

As the tax filing deadline approaches, a financial planner in Prince George’s County, Maryland, warns of increased fraud cases during tax season. Scammers often impersonate the IRS, which does not call individuals for money. The IRS flagged over one million tax returns for identity fraud last year. Crystal Davis, president of Davis Financial Services, advises clients to protect sensitive information and organize tax forms. Filing taxes early can prevent scammers from submitting fraudulent returns in your name. If scammers file first, it can significantly delay refunds. Davis also emphasizes the importance of verifying dependents' eligibility before claiming them on tax returns.

U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan is seeking to mobilize 13 million Caribbean-American voters to support President Biden's reelection. In Washington, D.C. for the National Governors Association winter meeting, Bryan discussed his plans with Maryland Governor Wes Moore. They aim to engage the Caribbean diaspora in the U.S. mainland, emphasizing the importance of their participation. The U.S. Virgin Islands, a U.S. territory with a predominantly non-white population, is also addressing issues such as human trafficking and economic sustainability. Bryan highlighted the territory's tourism success during the pandemic and initiatives for affordable energy and housing. Additionally, a recent settlement with JPMorgan Chase will provide $75 million to the territory, aiding domestic abuse and trafficking victims, following accusations that the bank enabled Jeffrey Epstein's criminal activities.

Thousands of demonstrators, organized by the ANSWER Coalition, marched in Washington D.C. to support Palestinians and demand a cease-fire in Gaza. Protesters, some wearing traditional Palestinian scarves, called for an end to federal aid to Israel and labeled the situation as apartheid. The rally included a vigil at Lafayette Park, and minor incidents of property damage were reported. D.C. police made an arrest for destruction of property. The conflict has resulted in at least 1,400 Israeli and over 9,000 Palestinian deaths. Solidarity demonstrations occurred nationwide, with 56 arrests at congressional offices during Israel-Gaza protests.

Over 900 carjackings have been reported in Washington D.C. this year, with 77% involving a gun. Close to 160 arrests have been made, with 65% involving individuals under 18. Representative Henry Cuellar of Texas was a victim of a carjacking near the Capitol. Three D.C. teenagers were arrested for two separate carjackings, and another teenager was indicted for six carjackings. The Metropolitan Police Department advises drivers to lock their cars, not leave them unattended, and pay attention to their surroundings.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, encourages high-risk individuals to get the new COVID-19 booster vaccine, especially with winter approaching. The vaccine is available at doctors' offices, local stores, and pharmacies, free with health insurance. The FDA and CDC have approved this new booster, which is recommended for everyone, particularly those who are pregnant, over 65, or immunocompromised. Adalja anticipates an increase in COVID-19 cases as the weather cools, emphasizing the importance of vaccination for high-risk groups.

President Joe Biden delivered a commencement speech at Howard University's Class of 2023, emphasizing unity, acceptance, and the fight against white supremacy. He highlighted the contributions of HBCUs and reminded graduates of their potential to shape the country's future. Biden and Rep. Jim Clyburn received honorary Doctor of Letters degrees. The speech aligns with Biden's focus on Black and young voters for his 2024 reelection bid and follows significant investments in HBCUs by his administration.

Orthodox Christians in the Washington D.C. area and globally are preparing to celebrate Easter on April 16, following the Julian calendar. This includes Ethiopian, Eritrean, Greek, Russian, and Serbian cultures, each with their unique names and traditions for the holiday. The Ethiopian and Eritrean Orthodox churches observe a 55-day fast called Abiy Tsom during the Lent season. Bineyam Gebrewold, a Sunday school teacher at Debre Genet Medhane Alem Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Maryland, describes Easter as a 'day of spiritual victory' and a time for families and communities to come together in celebration and reconciliation with God.