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April 2012 Contents: Hidden Gems

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In This Issue


April 2012 Cover
Volume 47, Number 7

Cover Story

Hidden Gems

Washington is famous for its monuments and museums. But beyond the must-see tourist spots is a treasure trove of less familiar destinations. Here are 61 fun places to visit–gorgeous gardens, behind-the-scenes tours, quirky museums, and more.

Photograph of a formal garden at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley by Ron Blunt

Features

The Battle Between Cat and Bird Lovers

The arrest of a National Zoo scientist for trying to poison cats set off a fierce debate over whether cats are innocent and adorable or an ecological nightmare. By Luke Mullins

Cherry Blossom Magic

For a century, spring in Washington has meant cherry blossoms, thanks to a gift from Japan. Here’s a look back at the annual spectacle–as seen in a new book from National Geographic.

Women of Fashion

In a city that’s not supposed to care all that much about style, some women have done well helping us with what we wear. Here are standouts in Washington’s fashion scene. By Sarah Zlotnick

Taking It to the Street

After a decade of setbacks and near misses, Ilir Zherka says it’s time to give District residents full representation in Congress. It’s a fight he thinks he can win. By Ariel Sabar

Capital Comment

HuffPo’s satirical savant . . . US Attorney’s marijuana problem . . . The little law firm that’s big in the Obama administration . . . Checking out the fact-checkers.
Anatomy Doing the space-shuttle shuffle.
Party Pictures & Benefits Honoring Clint Eastwood . . . Alvin Ailey gala . . . Novel party . . . Good causes.

Where & When

Smithsonian Craft Show . . . Eugene O’Neill Festival at Arena Stage and Shakespeare Theatre . . . Wanda Sykes, Chuck Brown, and others reopen the Howard Theatre. . . Kevin Costner’s band at Ram’s Head and Strathmore.

I.Q.

Profile Can Davey Johnson win?

Books Anthony Shadid’s final book.

What I’ve Learned Good behavior in the workplace.

What Made Me Radio host Diane Rehm.

150 Years ago Freeing Mr. Lincoln’s slaves.

Life

Travel Great spring getaways.

Great Finds Rain gear for a cloudy day.

Reader deals Saving on home repair.

Taste

Sweet Treats Kids’ classics made new.

Five Hot New Restaurants

Ricepaper

Rice Paper in Falls Church, District Kitchen in Woodley Park, Smoke & Barrel in Adams Morgan, Bon Fresco in Columbia, and Society Fair in Old Town.

Best Bites Ben Franklin’s milk punch . . . Chef Ron Tanaka’s favorite things . . . Trumping a winery . . . Washington’s signature dish? . . . Ask the critic.

Home

Light and Airy The number of condominiums in the pipeline is up. Here’s a look at the newest luxury condos.

Best of Reston and Herndon Where to find artful sushi, stylish bathing suits, piled-high burgers, and a laid-back neighborhood bar.

luxury Homes Lawyers, doctors, a restaurateur, and a journalist spend big.

Pets Losing a beloved animal is hard. So is deciding when to get another one.

First Person A midlife crisis got him running. The thrill of the race kept him going.