Keeping You Informed: August Community Updates
Hi Neighbors,
It's been a while since my last newsletter, so thank you for your patience. There's few things to share, so I'll keep it as concise as possible. If you'd like more information on any topic, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Department of General Services (DGS) is hosting virtual Ward-by-Ward Educational Roadshows. The Ward 3 show is scheduled for August 11th 6-7pm. You can also register by clicking the following link: DGS Ward-by-Ward Educational Roadshow Registration Link
United Planning Organization (UPO) is looking for community residents residing in Wards 1,3,4,5, and 8 to join their board! If you’re interested, please learn more here: Board of Directors – Election 2026 | United Planning Organization. You can also learn more by attending a virtual session on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, 6:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Streamed live on Facebook & Instagram @upoindc. If your schedule allows, I hope you will consider submitting an application.
Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) fall registration opens on Tuesday, August 11th for aquatics and Wednesday, August 12 for all other programs. Please check out the offerings at https://dprprograms.splashthat.com. I noticed the Chevy Chase Community Center has classes for amateur telescope making, pottery, and a few other offerings.
The Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) invites community members to help recognize District residents who are 100 years old or older, or who will be 100 by September 7, 2026. If you know a centenarian, please submit their name, date of birth, contact information, and a brief biography by August 14, 2026. To learn more or to submit a nomination, contact DACL at 202-724-5626 or dacl.communications@dc.gov
The District shared some initial preparations for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix scheduled for August 22 and 23. This is the first ever IndyCar series race. You can review the preparations video here: Preparations for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix.
Neighbors have organized a volunteer clean-up for Saturday, August 22nd 9:30am -1:30 pm at the Chevy Chase Civic Core (5601 Connecticut Ave NW) area. Please join in if your schedule permits.
Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Lieutenant Ollivierre is hosting a PSA 201 Community Walk. The walk will begin at 3pm at the Starbucks location at 5500 Connecticut Ave NW on Thursday, August 27, 2026.
I’ve received complaints about issues with rats from a few residents. I wanted to share the new “DC Rat Rangers” who are looking to engage with District Residents in safe rat prevention. DC Rat Rangers is an initiative of DC Responsible Rat Management, a coalition working to end the unintended harms caused by rodenticides while preventing conflict between residents and rodents. DC residents can sign up for education webinars for Friday, September 18th at 1:00pm or Saturday September 26th at 12:00pm. Registration information for all DC Rat Ranger walks, webinars and educational opportunities is available at https://www/dcratsolutions.com/rat-rangers
Art All Night Chevy Chase is happening on Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 4-10pm. You can learn more about the event here: Art All Night Chevy Chase
Mark your calendars for one of Chevy Chase’s favorite neighborhood traditions! Chevy Chase DC Day returns on Saturday, September 19, from 1–4 p.m. at the Chevy Chase Civic Core (Chase Library and Community Center 5601 Connecticut Ave NW). More details will be announced soon. Visit the Chevy Chase Community Association website. The ANC approved a grant to support an ice cream truck to pass out free ice cream to the community.
As summer winds down, I hope you have the opportunity to slow down, enjoy the season, and spend meaningful time with family and friends. The final weeks of summer are a wonderful reminder for me to appreciate the little moments and the people who matter most (especially before the start of the new school year). I’m wishing you all a safe, healthy, and enjoyable end to the season. I look forward to staying connected and sharing more updates with you this fall.
Regards,
Karrenthya Simmons
Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner
3/4G, SMD 05
3G05@anc.dc.gov