It feels like this week has really been the turning point for autumn, doesn't it? The air is crisp, leaves are beginning to turn shade and fall to the ground and the wind against your chest leaves you feeling invigorated as the oxygen burns through your lungs. Obviously, our pool photographers feel the same way I do -- there were a ton of photographs of the stark imagery of autumn floating around the DCist pool. Here are some of our favorites. (Though you'll need to supply your own cardigan, mug of apple cider and bonfire if you want to really optimize the viewing experience.) more ›

The D.C. Department of Public Works began its fall leaf collection period this week, so if you've got a lot of leaves to deal with around your house, it's worth a reminder how this works. First things first, head to http://leaf.dcgis.dc.gov/ and search for your address on the DPW leaf collection status map. The map will return a list of of scheduled leaf collection periods for your area. Take a note of the dates, and then before your next scheduled pass begins, rake all the leaves in front of your house and sidewalk into a pile in the nearest tree box. DPW crews will then come around and vacuum them up. And if you think you might have been missed, make sure to call 311 to request additional leaf removal service. more ›