Data shows a drop in crime in DC. But do you feel safer? - Thursday, April 18, 2024 - Top News from WTOP

TOP NEWS | April 18, 2024 [Web version](   [DC and federal officials say this initiative is helping take violent offenders off the streets]( Two years after the creation of "Project Safe Neighborhoods," an attempt to crack down on gun-related crimes in D.C., law enforcement officials say they've sent 127 firearms cases to federal court. [READ MORE](   [Beltway in the dark: More than 300 streetlights out along the busy highway]( A drive along the Capital Beltway showed almost 20% of streetlights were not working. A Maryland highway official said that while lighting is essential, one big problem remains. [READ MORE](   EVENT - WEBINAR [Federal News Network's CX Exchange 2024 | Register now]( How are agencies elevating the total experience, both for the public and for federal employees? Find out during our exclusive event April 23 and 24.   [At one Fairfax Co. school, military kids bond over shared challenges]( April is the Month of the Military Child, during which kids whose parents serve are honored for their sacrifices. Wednesday was the Fairfax County's "Purple-Up Day," when everyone wears purple to honor those students. [READ MORE](   [For DC's homeless population, street fair brings health care help - and hope]( The American College of Preventive Medicine and local agencies set up a three-hour health care outreach event on the Columbus Circle plaza, which is frequented by people experiencing homelessness. [READ MORE](   Sponsored by Exiger [DoD Cloud Exchange: How to implement SCRM across the hybrid cloud enterprise]( When combined, cloud, artificial intelligence and software as a service can be a powerful trio in helping DoD manage supply chain risks, explains Exiger's Cameron Holt, a former Air Force officer.   [Washington Mystics consider holding some high-demand home games at Capital One Arena this year]( "Demand this season has really been unprecedented." The Washington Mystics play in the WNBA's second-smallest arena at a time when interest in women's college basketball has gone way up. [READ MORE](   [Matt About Town: Make-A-Wish doctor talks about the power of granting a child's wish]( Granting a wish is more than just putting a smile on a sick child's face. There's research to show that there is also a medical benefit that could help children recover. [READ MORE](   EVENT [WTOP's Energy Strategy Series 2024 | Register now]( Launching on Earth Day, this exclusive series on WTOP.com will bring together government and industry experts to share initiatives and insights about efforts to transform the nation's energy infrastructure. Register now!   [Empathetic parents can mean empathetic kids, as study finds trait is passed down over generations]( Researchers at the University of Virginia say empathy is a trait that's passed down through generations, beginning with moms. [READ MORE](   [DC pride you can eat: Business owners invent ‘Capitol City Crunch' cereal]( "I definitely had a vision," said Capitol City Crunch co-creator Noel Warner. "I just felt like it was something that I could create that I wanted to enjoy." [READ MORE](   Sponsored by Exiger [DoD Cloud Exchange: How to implement SCRM across the hybrid cloud enterprise]( When combined, cloud, artificial intelligence and software as a service can be a powerful trio in helping DoD manage supply chain risks, explains Exiger's Cameron Holt, a former Air Force officer.   [Some criminals are using dating app Tinder to purchase guns, ATF says]( Federal officials are learning that guns are also being trafficked using social media platforms, including an app where you would more likely find a date than a Glock. [READ MORE](   [Things to do in the DC area: Earth Day-inspired food festival, vintage clothing pop-up … and more!]( Celebrate Earth Day early with local artists, food vendors and eco-friendly community offerings at the Earth, Art and Eats: An Earth Day Festival. [READ MORE](   SPONSORED CONTENT [On the cyber frontlines with federal SOCs]( In Federal News Network's latest Expert Edition, you'll find out how security operations centers continue to evolve to stay ahead of cyberthreats by collaborating closely with industry to staff their operations and modernize their toolkits.   [Move over, Grammys! Wammies honor local musicians with Hitmakers Ball at Capital One Hall]( For over three decades, D.C. musicians have gained exposure from a local version of the Grammys. Local music fans submitted nominations online to help the judges determine the finalists. [READ MORE](   Sponsored by Rocky Gorge Animal Hospital [Heartworm disease: Protecting your pet’s heart]( April is Heartworm Awareness Month, and it's a great time to learn about this disease and take steps to protect your pets.   PARTNERSHIP [Listen live for news, traffic and weather from WTOP News on our FREE App!]( Download the app today - sponsored by Navy Federal Credit Union - to stay up to date on all the latest news in the DMV.   [Check out the latest weather forecast]( [Click here for the latest traffic updates]( [Visit WTOP's Podcast Center]( Download and listen to podcasts created by WTOP and our partners CONNECT WITH WTOP [facebook]( [twitter]( [linkedin]( [instagram]( EVERYTHING YOU NEED EVERY TIME YOU LISTEN [DOWNLOAD THE WTOP APP]( [Click here to manage your newsletter preferences.]( This email and the accompanying website are not intended for users located within the European Economic Area. [Unsubscribe](  | [Contact us.](