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70 PERCENT OF CHERRY BLOSSOMS OPEN TODAY
The cherry blossoms on the Tidal Basin are stunning, and they'll peak "officially" on Wednesday -- a day earlier than expected.
U.S. National Park Service Chief Horticulturist Rob DeFeo pushed up his prediction for when 70 percent of the blossoms will be open.
DeFeo twice revised this year's prediction. He first predicted peak bloom would between April 3 and April 9, then revised that prediction to April 1 to April 4. (WTOP)
BEN'S EMPIRE EXPANDS
Big news for D.C. United fans. The Washington Convention and Sports Authority and concessions manager Sodexo have reached an agreement to bring several new food options to RFK Stadium this season, including Ben’s Chili Bowl. Ledo Pizza and Fat Face Bar-B-Que will also be opening inside the stadium.
The Ben's news comes after two successful seasons at Nationals Park. The landmark local eatery's move into concessions in 2008 marked the first time the business had ever served its famous half-smokes anywhere other than U Street. (DCist)
DC GAY MARRIAGE APPLICATIONS SOAR
Marriage applications have skyrocketed since the District started issuing licenses for same-sex couples this month, with droves of gay partners expected to relocate to the city from states where they can't tie the knot.
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About 1,100 marriage applications have been filed in the District since March 3, according to courthouse spokeswoman Leah Gurowitz, nearly six times the average monthly count. (Washington Examiner)
WARNING FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY'S AAA RATING
Concerned about preserving Montgomery County's AAA bond rating, County Executive Isiah Leggett is offering several changes to his proposed budget to bolster the county's reserves.
The Gazette reported that Leggett is seeking to increase an energy fee as early as this month and to move money into the county's reserve fund sooner than expected. (Washington Business Journal)
