SOULFOOD IS...

Soul Food is a term used to refer to southern cooking, otherwise known as “comfort food”. And just as the tasteful culinary delights of the south conjures up feelings of home and wellness, studies have shown that engaginsg in fun activities with family and friends can trigger healthy physical changes in the body!

Having fun is an important part of stress management. Getting much needed R&R can strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress.

Best of all, this priceless medicine is all around us…especially in and around the Nation’s Capital!

Our “Soulfood” section is dedicated to all the cool, free, and super cheap things to do in the DC area!

In this issue:

• Soulfood Is...
• Cinco de May Celebration
• National Harbor Food & Wine Festival
• Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
• Mother's Day 2012 in DC!
• Memorial Day 2012
• Avon Walk for Breast Cancer
• The Arthritis Walk

CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION

The National Cinco de Mayo Festival in Washington, DC is an annual celebration featuring live music and dance, children’s arts and crafts workshops, food, games and activities for the entire family. Although originally Mexican in origin, the Cinco de Mayo Festival has become a larger “Latin American Family Reunion” on the National Mall. The Festival is free and open to all. It will be held rain or shine.

The annual festival is an opportunity to explore the rich history, culture and ethnic diversity that is the foundation of Latin Americans in the United States. As the region’s Latino community has grown, the festival has also grown in size and scope. The Washington DC Cinco de Mayo Festival is hosted by the Maru Montero Dance Company.


Date and Time: May 5, 2012, noon to 6 p.m. Rain or shine.

Location
Sylvan Stage on the National Mall near the Washington Monument at 15th St. and Independence Ave. The closest Metro station is Smithsonian.

Maru Montero Dance Company

The Latin dance company performs Mexican folk, cha-cha, mambo, salsa, tango and many other dances from Latin America. The company, founded by former Ballet Folklórico de México lead dancer Maru Montero, is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation dedicated to promoting the joy and beauty of Latin culture in the United States. MMDC performs at various venues around the district and offers a wide selection of Latin American dance programs. Visit www.marumontero.com for more information.

AVON WALK FOR BREAST CANCER

Avon Walk for Breast Cancer walks are challenging and exciting events held in multiple US cities each year. the choice of walking a marathon or half-marathon the first day, then all walk a half-marathon the second day, camping overnight in the Wellness Village. All meals, snacks, and trail support are provided. Each walker must raise a minimum of $1800 in donations to participate.

Dates and Locations:
Avon Walks for Breast Cancer will take place in:

Schedule:
Houston April 21-22, 2012
Washington, DC May 5-6, 2012
Boston May 19-20, 2012
Chicago June 2-3, 2012
Rocky Mountains June 23-24, 2012
San Francisco July 7-8, 2012
Santa Barbara September 22-23, 2012
New York Oct. 20-21, 2012
Charlotte Oct. 27-28, 2012

Registration:
Registration fee is $65. Register online or by mail. Once registered you will receive your training T-shirt, training packet, and be assigned to a coach. Orientation sessions are held in the walk cities, and walk training groups are held in many locations. The event is open to both men and women, age 18 and above.
Avon Walk Registration

Donations:
Each walker must collect $1800 in donations in order to participate. Donations may be collected by cash, credit card, or check. Each participant can set up a personal web page on the Avon Walk site to make it easy to collect donations online. Walker coaches provide advice on how to host a fundraising party and how to ask for donations. The Avon Foundation disburses the funds to worthy breast cancer charities.

Training:
Walking a marathon and a half-marathon or two half-marathon is a very challenging endurance event. Proper training is necessary. The Avon Walk for Breast Cancer provides training advice, group training walks, and a coach to assist walkers in their training and in selecting the right clothing, shoes, and gear. As a marathon walking coach, I developed training schedules for these events.

Walking the Event:
Choice of half-marathon or marathon the first day can be made even while walking. Full support is provided: marked trail, stops every 1.5-3 miles for water, sports drink, snacks, lunch, first aid and blister care. Sweep vans patrol the route looking for walkers who need assistance. Walkers may end their day's walk at any of the stops along the way and be taken to camp or the finish at no penalty. A bus transports the half-marathoners to camp.

Camping:
The first day ends at camp where hot showers and a hot meal are provided. Walkers are assigned to 2-person tents. Each walker provides his/her own sleeping bag and pad. Clothing and gear are transported for the walkers, but there are weight limitations. In the evening there is entertainment. Walkers are encouraged to stay at camp rather than arrange other accommodation.

Crew:
The event depends on volunteer crew members to support the walkers in everything from setting up the camp, serving the walkers at the stops on the route, marking the route, serving meals, patrolling the route, etc. Crew members also register for $55 and are provided the same meals and camping accommodations as the walkers.

Charity:
The net proceeds from the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer benefit the Avon Foundation, which disburses funds for breast cancer research and community outreach programs. Over $265 million was raised by the 2003-2008 walks.

My Experience:
In 2003 I was the trail marking crew chief for the Portland Avon Walk for Breast Cancer and I walked the NYC Avon Walk for Breast Cancer.
The Avon Walks for Breast Cancer built on the success and much of the format of the Avon 3-Day Breast Cancer Walks. The differences are in being 2-day events with distance of marathon and half-marathon vs. the 3-Days 20-mile days. But many of the same facilities, services, and formats are the same as the 3-Day setup. They retain their excellence and my vote as the best walking events you can ever participate in.

Incredible Good:
For the final walk into the finish, cheered by our friends and relatives, we each felt we had really DONE SOMETHING. And unlike the other marathons I've done - I did it not for myself, but for every woman and man who is touched by breast cancer. At each closing ceremony, a huge check was presented to a medical research center or community outreach group for the fight against breast cancer. Can we change the world by walking? Yes.

THE ARTHRITIS WALK

The Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation's nationwide signature event that supports public awareness and raises funds to fight arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability. It is a tremendous opportunity to help improve the lives of the 50 million men, women and children with arthritis.

Get your company involved or recruit friends and family members to form a team. Best of all, when you walk in honor of a loved one with arthritis, you know you're making a difference.

The funds you raise will support critical Arthritis Foundation research and discoveries, public health initiatives and public policy efforts to improve the lives of people with arthritis.
By joining your 2012 Arthritis Walk, you become a part of the Let's Move Together movement. But don't stop there... move daily for better health.

1. What is the Arthritis Walk?
The Arthritis Walk is the Arthritis Foundation's nationwide team walk event that raises funds to fight arthritis. The event generally takes place during the month of May in conjunction with National Arthritis Month.

2. What is a team?
A team is a group of dedicated people raising funds for the Arthritis Walk.

3. How can my company participate?
Companies can participate by organizing a team(s) of co-workers, vendors, family and friends to raise money and walk in the event.

4. Is the Arthritis Walk limited to corporate teams?
No, in fact we also encourage team participation through civic organizations, schools, family and friends. Individuals are also welcome to participate, too!

5. Is it difficult to organize a team?
No, team participation is easy! All teams are led by a team captain. Team captains serve as the liaison between the Arthritis Foundation and your organization. Team captains receive a "Team Captain Packet" with instructions and materials to ensure success in building a large walk team.

6. Is my corporation/organization required to make a specific contribution?
No! Generally, teams generate a larger contribution by raising funds collectively. Remember that matching gifts can double your fund raising dollars!

7. How do I sign up for the event?
Participants can register online at www.arthritis.org or by sending in a hard copy registration form to your local chapter office. You will receive all of the necessary tools to get your fundraising efforts started.

8. How are funds raised through team participation?
Each team member is responsible for achieving their own fundraising goal and is encouraged to set a high goal - most participants raise $200 or more! Participants can raise funds online by setting up their very own personal web page and asking friends, family and co-workers to donate.

9. How is the money collected?
For donations made online, the Arthritis Foundation will receive these funds instantly. All other donations (check or cash) should be turned in to your team captain. Team captains are responsible for turning in their team's funds to the Arthritis Foundation.

10. How is the money used?
Money raised from the Arthritis Walk will help fund the mission of the Arthritis Foundation, which is to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases.

11. How can top management get involved with the Arthritis Walk?
Your CEO or Senior Level Management Staff can help by issuing an "Arthritis Walk" challenge among employees. Ask them to endorse a memo to all staff requesting their participation and offer a free company t-shirt to generate excitement and gain publicity.

12. How long is the route?
The Arthritis Walk is a non-competitive, fully accessible 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) course with a one-mile option for those who wish to walk a shorter distance.

13. Why should I participate?
Arthritis and chronic joint symptoms affect 50 million Americans, including nearly 300,000 children. Your participation is urgently needed to help find a cure. Join the team today and be a leader in the fight against arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability.

14. Whom should I contact if I require further information?
For more details on the Arthritis Foundation's Arthritis Walk please contact the Arthritis Foundation toll-free at 1-877-232-2898 or e-mail arthritiswalk@arthritis.org. To find the Arthritis Walk event being held nearest to you, check the event dates and locations. You can also contact your local Arthritis Foundation office directly. Click here to find the office nearest to you.

NATIONAL HARBOR FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL

National Harbor celebrates the spring season with a waterfront food and wine festival emphasizing food and wine pairing, artisanal and organic products, and boutique wines. The event includes tastings, cooking demonstrations and educational seminars on culinary and wine trends, sustainability issues, and supporting local farmers and resources. The Food and Wine Festival at National Harbor will present more than 150 International wines, spirits and beers featured along with local and regional favorites. Guests will be able to sample all of the varieties as well as purchase them by the glass and the bottle. Other highlights include a Cinco De Mayo Pavilion featuring Hornitos tequila, Special craft beer tasting Bier Garten experience, Whiskey and Bourbon Tasting Experience in a relaxed setting - paired with hand rolled cigars, three stages of live music and smooth jazz.

Dates and Times
May 5-6, 2012
12-6 p.m.


Location
National Harbor is located in Prince George's County, Maryland on the Potomac River, just minutes from Washington, DC. The site is accessible from I-95/I-495, I-295, the new Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and by water taxi from Washington, DC, Old Town Alexandria, Mount Vernon, and Georgetown.

Tickets
General Admission $37 - Advance
VIP $85 - Advance
Two Day General $75 - Advance
All Access $185 - Advance
Ages 12 and under are free
Purchase tickets online.

Participating Chefs

Saturday:

• Sticky Fingers Doron Petersen of Food Networks’ Cupcake Wars
• Food Network Sara Moulton
• The Wine Coach Laurie Forster
• The Beef Association’s Dave Zino

Sunday:

• Marta Ines Quintan of Havana Road Cuban Café
• Natalie Dupree making her famous Southern biscuits
• Food Network Sara Moulton
• Jim Baker of the Washington Wine Academy and Cooking with Salt and Pepper

Additional Event
Tickets are sold separately. May 5 at 7:00 p.m. - Vintner Wine dinner at Old Hickory at Gaylord National Resort featuring Turtle Creek Vineyards

Official Website www.wineandfoodnh.com

About National Harbor
National Harbor is a 300-acre waterfront destination in the Washington, DC area that opened in the spring of 2008. Set along a prime spot along the Potomac River, National Harbor, a $2.1 billion mixed-use community built by the Peterson Companies, includes hotels, restaurants, retail stores, condominiums, a full-service marina, a convention center, and commercial office space.

BETHESDA FINE ARTS FESTIVAL

The Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District presents its annual Bethesda Fine Arts Festival, a two-day event highlighting 140 contemporary artists who will sell their original fine art and fine craft. National artists from nearly 25 states and Canada will showcase painting, drawing, photography, furniture, jewelry, mixed media and ceramics. The festival will also feature live entertainment, children’s activities and downtown Bethesda restaurants.

Dates: May 12-13, 2012

Hours:
Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.


Location:
Bethesda Fine Arts Festival will be held in downtown Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle along Norfolk and Auburn Avenues. The festival is located six blocks from the Bethesda Metro station and free parking is available adjacent to the event in the parking garage located on Auburn Avenue.

Admission: Free

For more information, please visit www.bethesda.org or call (301) 215-6660.

MOTHER'S DAY 2012 IN THE DC AREA!

Looking for a special way to spend Mother’s Day this year? Here are some ideas of ways to spend some family time with mom on Mother’s Day in Washington, DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Mother’s Day Brunch

Many Washington, DC area restaurants offer a Mother’s Day brunch with all the trimmings. Here are some recommendations for great places to enjoy a nice meal with the whole family. Most places get pretty busy, so be sure to call ahead and make a reservation. Details will be updated each year, but please confirm specifics with the restaurant when making a reservation.

701 Restaurant:  701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC. (202) 393-0701. Mothers Day Brunch with live jazz and outdoor seating overlooking the Navy Memorial fountains. Three-course menu includes Vanilla French Toast with balsamic strawberries and lavender whipped cream; Burrata with a grape tomato and arugula omelet and breakfast potatoes and Strip Steak with eggs, smoked tomato sauce and breakfast potatoes. For dinner, guests can choose from Salmon with forbidden rice, snap peas in a plum wine sauce; Shenandoah Lamb Loin with bourbon ribs, onion puree and crispy green beans, as well as Strip Steak with basil mashed potatoes and charred tomato relish. $50 per person. Valet parking is $8 per car.

901 Restaurant & Bar:  901 Ninth Street NW, Washington, DC. (202) 524-4433. The four-course menu begins with a complimentary specialty Mother’s Day cocktail (for guests 21+) – a blend of blue Curacao, rum, sour mix and pineapple juice. The menu includes choice of Shrimp Bisque or a 901 House salad, and follows with choice of a sharing appetizer, a sharing entree, and a Chef’s dessert sampler for the table. $35 per person.

1789 Restaurant:  1226 36th St NW Washington, DC (202) 965-1789. A la carte menu with complimentary canapés. First and second courses are included in the entrée price, ranging from $28-36. Menu includes items such as Challah French Toast, Roast Halibut and Rack of Lamb.

2100 Prime:  The Fairfax at Embassy Row, 2100 Massachusetts Ave., NW Washington DC. (202) 835-2100. Mother's Day menu includes a combination of choices, along with an a la carte entree option. The appetizer and dessert are a buffet of six different choices and choose an entrée from six choices. Entrees consist of Poached Eggs Benedict with Crabmeat; Bacon, Broccoli , Cheddar Cheese Quiche; Roasted Leg of Spring Lamb; Prime Rib Au Jus; Waffles with Strawberry and Blueberry Compote or Seared Salmon Salad with Citrus and Asparagus. $65 per person; $25 for children 6-12 years.

Ardeo:  3311 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC (202) 244-6750. Mother’s Day three-course pre fixe menu. Highlights include Chilled Asparagus and Leek Soup with goat cheese mousse and pine nut praline; Rock Shrimp and Grits with brown butter emulsion; House-made Black Pepper Fettuccini with asparagus, pickled ramps, smoked ricotta and egg 63, as well as ‘Steak and Eggs’ with barrel cut ribeye, scrambled eggs and roasted potatoes. $39 per person, or $49 for bottomless Champagne or mimosas.

Art and Soul:  Liaison Capitol Hill, 415 New Jersey Ave. NW Washington, DC. (202) 393-7777. The southern-inspired Mother's Day brunch buffet features specialties like fried chicken and waffles, as well as traditional favorites like prime rib, seafood and omelette stations. $60 per person/$29 for children.

Bastille:  1201 N. Royal St. Alexandria, VA (703) 519-3776. Mothers Day Brunch three course prix-fixe, $49.00 Entrees are an array of classic breakfast and main dish items including Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon served with sauteed potatoes and organic lettuce; grilled portobello and Brie sandwich on brioche, topped with a fried farm-fresh egg and basil pesto, served with sauteed potatoes and organic lettuce; croustade of free-range chicken breast stuffed with local fresh crab and served with spring pea risotto; shrimp and Hoecakes with grilled wild White Louisiana shrimp, caramelized onion jam, and banyuls sabayon; and Grilled hanger steak, cabernet-shallot sauce, served with choice of pommes frites or side salad.

Bibiana Osteria-Enoteca:  1100 New York Ave. NW Washington, DC. (202) 216-9550. Enjoy an Italian Mothers Day brunch with a variety of options, $45 per person. Menu includes dishes such as Aranchini, rice fritters stuffed with pork ragu and provolone cheese; Pasta e Fagoli, cannaleini beans, mussels and small shell pasta; Agnello, slow roasted Boarder Springs Farm shoulder and leg with artichoke and cichercia bean stew, as well as Trota, seared Tasmanian Sea trout with glazed spring vegetables. For a sweet ending, newly appointed Pastry Chef Jemil Gadea is serving desserts such as Fragola, warm strawberry confit, grappa scented mascarpone, almond crumble and malted milk gelato.

Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar:  1736 Wisconsin Ave. NW. Washington, DC. (202) 333-0111. A four-course Mother’s Day feast, $49.95 per person, includes favorites such as Stuffed quail confit with wild mushrooms and braised Savoy cabbage, shallot sauce, Sauteed soft shell crab served with spinach and lemon caper butter sauce, Rack of lamb served with green beans and Purple potato au gratin, and Salmon steak served with leek fondue and sorrel sauce.

BlackSalt:  4883 MacArthur Blvd, Washington DC. (202) 342-9101. A la carte Mother’s Day Brunch. Highlights include Fried Bay Oyster Po’ Boy with field greens, BlackSalt bacon and chive aioli; Wood Grilled British Columbia Salmon with black eye peas, baby greens, and bacon vinaigrette, as well as Louisiana poached eggs with Blue shell crab, crawfish, tasso, and Cayenne Hollandaise. Breakfast favorites such as English Scones with Devonshire Cream and House-made French Toast will also be available. Prices range from $4 to $19.

Blue Duck Tavern:  1201 24th Street, NW Washington DC. (202) 419 6755. Three-course, buffet-style holiday brunch. Menu highlights include Prime Rib of Beef with horseradish and natural Jus; Wood Oven Roasted Cod with olive oil, crushed potatoes, fava beans and champagne sabayon; Scrambled Eggs with Rock Shrimp, roasted fingerling potatoes and caramelized Vidalia onions; Ricotta Cheesecake with brandied cherries; Buttermilk Panna Cotta with passion fruit tapioca, and Flourless Chocolate Fondant with bittersweet glaze. $90 for adults and $45 for children ages 6-12.

Bombay Club:  815 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC. (202) 659-3727. Mother’s Day brunch buffet featuring a special menu and live piano music. Entrée highlights include Manglorean Shrimp Curry with tomato, garlic and coriander; Kumb Corn Palak with baby corn, chitake, spinach, onion and garlic; chicken Korma with yogurt, onion, cashew, mace and cardamom, as well as Jeera Pulao with basmati rice, cumin and whole spices. $35 per person or with unlimited Champagne for $45 per person.

Bourbon Steak:  Fours Season Hotel, 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC. (202) 944-2026. Mother’s Day brunch, $80 per adult, $40 per child. Entrees include items such as the popular Oak-fired steak burger with Cabot clothbound cheddar, Roasted organic chicken with morels and fava beans and a sophisticated take on a traditional favorite Pistachio French toast with Bing cherries and amaretto syrup.
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Café Dupont:  Dupont Hotel, 1500 New Hampshire Ave. NW Washington, DC. Mothers Day brunch menu includes a variety of breakfast items like lamb gigot roasted fingerling potatoes green beans red wine jus, pan seared salmon fennel potatoes, mushroom crabmeat sauce, and eggs benedict smoked salmon, green asparagus, hollandaise sauce. $33 per person.

Cafe Promenade:  Renaissance Mayflower Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC. Brunch buffet, $75 for adults, $35 for children under 12. Menu featuring omelets made to order, Belgian Waffles, Florentine Benedicts, Oysters, Aged New York Strip, Roast Loin of Pork Stuffed with Lobster, and an assortment of salads, antipasto, baked goods and a chocolate fountain. Children are encouraged to assist in the preparation of breakfast for mom at the one-of-a-kind pancake station, featuring a variety of pancake flavors from fresh berries to marshmallows and gummy bears.

Central:  1001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC (202) 626-0015. A special Brunch menu designed by Michel Richard and Executive Chef Jason Maddens will be served in addition to the Central regular lunch menu. Brunch specials will include smoked salmon, Michel’s Eggs Benedict, Brioche French Toast, and a Bacon and Leek Quiche.

Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar:  801 9th Street, Suite A, NW, Washington DC. (202) 408-1600. Moms who dine at the restaurant will receive a flower along with a special gift card for $25 off the purchase of $100 or more.

Graffiato:  707 6th St. NW Washington DC (202) 289-3600. The four-course tasting menu features brunch, lunch and dessert choices, including cinnamon knots with nutella, breakfast pizza with bacon, potato, broccolini and cheddar cheese, sweet pea tortellini, Atlantic striped bass, and strawberry pizza with goat cheese, ricotta and mint. An a la carte children's menu will also be available. $35 per person.

Howard Theatre:  620 T Street NW Washington, DC. The historic theater offers its Sunday Gospel Brunch featuring a southern-style buffet that includes corn bread, shrimp and grits, collard greens and more. $35 in advance and $45 at the door. For Mother's Day, the Howard will host two brunches--the first at 12:30pm with doors opening at 11:30 a.m. and the second with doors opening at 3 p.m. and the show beginning at 3:30 p.m.

J&G Steakhouse:  515 15th St. NW Washington DC (202)661-2440. Mother's Day brunch, $35 per person, includes items such as Softly Scrabbled Eggs, Peekytoe Crab Meat and Tomato and Basil served with your choice of Blood Orange Mimosa, Lychee Raspberry Bellini or Bloody Mary and finished with a sweet treat for Mom like our delicious Passion Fruit Pavlova.

La Forchetta:  3201 New Mexico Ave., Suite E, NW, Washington DC. (202) 244-2233 Prix fixe Mother’s Day three-course menu allows guests to choose an appetizer, entrée and desserts. Entrée choices include Fettuccine alla Bolognese; Grille Salmon with sautéed broccoli di rabe or the Hanger Steak with salsa verde. $30 per person.

Mrs. K's Toll House:  9201 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD (301) 589-3500. Mother’s Day pre-fixe four-course menu:  $60 per person. Guests will be delighted with seasonal dishes such as Cream of Asparagus with crab, Basil Pesto Crusted Salmon, Spice Crusted Pork Loin and Artichoke and Goat Cheese Ravioli.

The Oval Room:  800 Connecticut Ave. NW Washington, DC (202) 463-8700. A three-course Mother’s Day menu includes dishes such as Fragrant Steamed Salmon with cucumber, prosciutto, mint and pumpernickel; Hawaiian Sweet Shrimp with roasted garlic butter, pistachio, and lime; Red Beet Ravioli with brown butter, wine syrup and ricotta salata, as well as Pork Chop with licorice, fennel-herb salad and crushed potato. For dessert, tempting options include Peanut Butter Bavarian with honey roasted peanut caramel; Carrot Cake with cream cheese ice cream, as well as Coconut Custard with lemon-lime sherbet and candied mint. $60 per person or $85 per person with wine pairings.

Pearl Dive Oyster Palace:  1612 14th Street, NW, Washington DC. (202) 986-8778. A New Orleans-inspired feast will feature the fresh sustainable seafood. Standouts include Stuffed Brioche “French Toast” with chocolate Frangelico ganache and candied hazelnuts; Fried Chicken Dinner with salt roasted potatoes, braised organic greens and creamy slaw; Wood Grilled Redfish with sage-native pecan butter and stone grits; Pontchartrain with two poached farm eggs, English muffin, blue crab, Tasso, crawfish and cayenne hollandaise, as well as Texas Gulf Shrimp Remoulade with shrimp salad, grilled romaine heart and brioche Texas toast.

Potenza:  1430 H St. NW, Washington, DC. (202) 638-4444. A la carte brunch menu which is designed with sharing and Italian authenticity in mind. Specials include Lemon Ricotta Pancakes served with cherry-maple syrup and chicken sausage; Porcini Mushroom Hash and Eggs made with poached eggs over sautéed porcini mushrooms and spinach with marsala sabayon as well as Lobster and Tomato Fusilli with sweet onions, peas, ramps and sunchokes.

Rasika:  633 D St. NW Washington, DC (202) 637-1222. Mother’s Day Brunch with a special three-course prix fixe brunch menu:  $45 per person (tax and gratuity not included). Menu highlights include Palak Chaat; Lamb Kathi Roll: Tandoori Lamb Wrap; Malai Fish Curry: Fish curry made with coconut milk and yoghurt, as well as Aam Gosht: lamb cooked in a cashew nut based sauce flavored with Alphonso mangoes.

Roof Terrace Restaurant:  John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW Washington DC. (202) 416-8555. Enjoy a brunch buffet featuring a raw bar, roasts, made-to-order omelets, salads, pastries and more. Mom will love the stunning skyline views and live jazz performance. $39.95 for adults; $20 for children 4-11.

The Source by Wolfgang Puck:  575 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. Washington, DC (202) 637-6100. This Mother’s Day, enjoy a special family-style dim sum tasting menu. $65 per person, brunch includes a glass of Champagne or non-alcoholic cocktail. The menu includes Asparagus soup and Maine lobster, followed by an assortment of appetizers including Pork belly dumplings with black vinegar and chili oil and Shrimp and Maine lobster spring rolls. Entrees include Asian-influences specialties such as Shanghai street noodles with Kobe beef short ribs and Singapore chili prawns with roasted bao.

MEMORIAL 2012 DAY IN THE DC AREA!

Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died serving our country. This is a great time to honor our veterans and famous Americans by visiting the monuments in Washington, DC. The Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of the busy summer season and the Washington, DC region celebrates with family friendly events and special services. Here is the 2012 Memorial Day event schedule:

National Memorial Day Concert
Sunday, May 27, 2012, 8 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m.
PBS sponsors a FREE concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The concert features actors Joe Mantegna and Gary Sinise, and other guest artists along with the National Symphony Orchestra.

National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, DC
The National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, DC is a flag-waving event with patriotic marches and floats. The Parade is sponsored by the World War II Veterans Committee and is an annual tradition of remembrance for those who have died serving our country. The 2012 National Memorial Day Parade will include musical performers and celebrity veterans and supporters of the military, including Pat Sajak, Gary Sinise, Joe Mantegna, and Miss America. The parade will be televised live to U.S. service members around the world on The Pentagon Channel.

Date and Time: Monday, May 28, 2012, 2 p.m. The parade will be preceded by musical performances and ceremonies at the reviewing stand at 1 p.m. at the National Archives, at the corner of 7th St. and Constitution Avenue.

Parade Route: The National Memorial Day Parade begins at at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Streets, NW and proceeds along Constitution Avenue, past the White House, ending at 17th Street.

2012 Rolling Thunder Memorial Day
Rolling Thunder is an annual motorcycle rally that is held in Washington, DC during the Memorial Day weekend to call for the government's recognition and protection of Prisoners of War (POWs) and those Missing in Action (MIAs). The tribute to American war heroes started out in 1988 with 2,500 participants. Now approximately 900,000 participants and spectators are involved with this annual demonstration in Washington, DC. Rolling Thunder celebrates its 25th anniversary this year with expanded programming.

2012 Rolling Thunder Memorial Day Schedule
Friday, May 25, 2012
Candle Light Vigil:  9:00 p.m.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, DC

Saturday, May 26, 2012
Wreathlaying Ceremony – 11:00 a.m.
U.S. Navy Memorial
701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC (On the Plaza)

Saluting Our Troops:  11:45 a.m.:  8:00 p.m.
Henry Bacon Dr. and Constitution Ave.
The Stage is just north of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, DC
Several musical acts and a series of guest speakers will present a full day of tributes. Five custom-made “tribute” motorcycles— one for each branch of military service— will be unveiled to commemorate the Rolling Thunder XXV anniversary.

Sunday, May 27, 2012
Rolling Thunder will assemble at the Pentagon Parking Lot:  7:00 a.m.:  Noon.
Departure To Washington, DC:  Noon
Speaker Program:  1:30 p.m.
Musical Tribute:  3:00 p.m.
The Stage is located between the Reflecting Pool and the Korean War Memorial

Tips for Attending Rolling Thunder

• The best viewing spots are along the Arlington Memorial Bridge and Constitution Avenue.
• Streets will be closed along the route from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Parking is limited. Public transportation is suggested. Stations nearby include Smithsonian, Metro Center, Judiciary Square, Federal Triangle and L'Enfant Plaza.
• Bring food and water or expect to wait in line.
• Dress appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.
• Take some time to pay tribute to America's war heroes by visiting the monuments and memorials on the National Mall.
• Bring your patriotic spirit and enjoy the day!

Rolling Thunder History
Rolling Thunder began as a demonstration following the era of the Vietnam War, which was a difficult time in America's history. Similar to today's political climate, our nation was divided over issues of peace and war. However, many of America's military were killed or missing in action and their remains were not being brought home to be respectfully buried and honored. In 1988, veterans of the Vietnam War rallied together their families, fellow veterans, and veterans' advocates to organize a demonstration at the Capitol Building in Washington, DC during the Memorial Day weekend. They announced their arrival with the roar of their Harley-Davidsons, a sound not unlike the 1965 bombing campaign against North Vietnam named Operation Rolling Thunder. Approximately 2500 motorcycles participated in this rally, demanding that the U.S. government account for all POW/MIA's. The group became known as Rolling Thunder and each year since has held an annual "Ride for Freedom" to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

Rolling Thunder Today
Rolling Thunder was incorporated as a class 501 C-4 non-profit organization and today has more than 100 chapters throughout the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe. The group is actively involved year-round in promoting legislation to increase veteran benefits and resolve the POW/MIA issue from all wars. They also provide financial support, food, clothing and other essentials to veterans, veterans' families, veterans groups, and women's' crisis centers.

For more information about Rolling Thunder, visit their website at http://www.rollingthunderrun.com

Major Events in Maryland and Virginia

Hometown Holidays
May 26-28, 2012. The city of Rockville's Memorial Day event is a three-day street festival with live music, children's entertainment, a parade and more.
Hometown Holidays is Rockville, Maryland’s annual street festival celebrating Memorial Day. The three-day event features dozens of entertainers performing on seven stages, children's rides, teen activities, VisArts Fine Arts Festival, an environmental expo, the Taste of Rockville, the Annual Ride for Rockville Bicycle Tour, and the Memorial Day Ceremony and Parade.

This year's Memorial Day ceremony includes music by the Rockville Concert Band and Chorus, a wreath laying led by American Legion Post 86, and 21-gun salute and presentation of colors by American Legion Post 86 Color Guard. The Memorial Day Parade includes drill teams, marching bands, community groups, military units, and more.

Dates: May 26:  28, 2012

Location
Hometown Holidays is located in Rockville Town Center and is walking distance from the Rockville Metro Station.

Parking
Free parking is available at the jury parking lot at the corner of Jefferson and Monroe streets and the Metro parking lots. Parking garages are located at 255 Rockville Pike, 51 Monroe Place and on Fleet Street behind the Council Office Building.

Hometown Holidays Schedule

Saturday, May 26, 1-10 p.m. Market Place, Taste of Rockville, Kids Activities, Live Entertainment.

Sunday, May 27, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. 5th Annual Ride for Rockville Bicycle Tour. Ride at your own pace through the neighborhoods of Rockville, Maryland. Choose from a 10-mile or a 25-mile route. Meet at the Rockville Town Center near Regal Cinemas. Ride For Rockville is fundraiser to benefit the Rockville Youth Recreation Fund and Rockville Bikeway Enhancement Fund which provide financial assistance and recreational opportunities for Rockville residents.

2-10 p.m. Market Place, Taste of Rockville, Kids Activities, Live Entertainment.

Monday, May, 38, 2012
9 a.m. Rockville Concert Band & Chorus
9:30 a.m. Memorial Day Ceremony
10:30 a.m. Memorial Day Parade

Ceremony and Parade Viewing Location: Courthouse Square at Martins Lane and North Washington Street.

Viva Vienna

May 26-28, 2012. Vienna, Virginia celebrates with a community festival including food, crafts, music, carnival rides and a Memorial Day tribute.
The ViVa Vienna Memorial Day Festival is a three-day community celebration in Vienna, Virginia, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Vienna, with food, crafts, music, and carnival rides that raises more than $100,000 for local and international charities. A Memorial Day tribute is held at noon on Monday.

Dates and Schedule
May 26–28, 2012
Saturday and Sunday:  10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Monday:  10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Festival Location
Viva Vienna is held along historic Church Street in Vienna, Virginia, extending from Lawyers Road to Mill St., with the old Vienna Train Station and Caboose serving as the anchor.

Parking and Transportation
Free shuttle buses will transport attendees from Madison High School and from the Vienna/GMU Metro Station. Parking is also available at 301 Maple Ave W:  White Oak Tower Building and the commuter lot at Magruders on the corner of Maple Ave (123) and Courthouse Rd.

E-waste Recycling Program
Viva Vienna will include a recycling program with a collection center located in the parking lot of James Madison High School. Hours are from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday and Monday. Accepted materials include computers, printers, modems, keyboards and associated computer gear. Televisions are NOT accepted at this event.

Website
www.vivaviennava.org

Wolf Trap National Park

Sunday, May 27, 2012, 8:00 p.m. Summer Blast Off! "The President's Own". The park for performing arts kicks off the summer season with a free performance by the U.S. Marine Band followed by fireworks. The Filene Center gates open at 6:30 p.m. Arrive early because the park closes once capacity is reached.

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts hosts a wide range of concerts including pop, country, folk and blues, orchestra, dance, opera. Wolf Trap holds performances and offers educational programs all year long in indoor and outdoor venues.

Filene Center at Wolf Trap
Filene Center is a 7,000-seat concert pavilion that is ideal for summer concerts. The seating is under cover with open sides that look out onto the rolling hills of the park. Lawn seating provides an area where patrons can relax and enjoy picnics before and during the performance. In addition to concerts, the Filene Center is a venue for a variety of education programs, artist master classes, special events, and a Holiday Sing-A-Long.

The gates open one and a half hours before all performances. You are allowed to bring in your own food and drink and chairs are allowed on the lawn (though you will be asked to sit in the back, so you will not impair the view of other patrons). Lawn seats are first come first serve and performances are held rain or shine.

The Barns at Wolf Trap
Two 18th century barns serve as a unique venue for year-round indoor concerts with first class acoustics. The larger barn seats 284 people on the main level and 98 in the hayloft. The smaller barn serves as a reception area. The Barns at Wolf Trap is a fabulous place to enjoy jazz, bluegrass, chamber music, folk, comedy, cabaret, and country music. Attend a summer performance of the Wolf Trap Opera Company. The doors open 30 minutes before each performance. The Barns are also rented for meetings, conferences and private parties.

Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods
Special family-friendly performances are held from late June through early August at 10 and 11:15 a.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays. Music, dance, storytelling, puppetry, and plays are geared towards school aged children. Tickets are $8 per person and include 2 shows. Children under 3 are FREE. Advance purchase of tickets is recommended since many performances sell out. National Park Service Park Rangers lead nature walks after most Theatre-in-the-Woods performances.

Center for Education at Wolf Trap
In 2003, Wolf Trap opened a state-of-the art education facility to accommodate rehearsals, workshops, childrens classes, master classes, meetings, and training sessions.

Location
1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, Virginia.
Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts is located about 20 minutes from downtown Washington, DC. Wolf Trap Express Bus travels from the West Falls Church Metro stop every 20 minutes starting two hours prior to show time.

Tickets
Tickets for Wolf Trap's performances can be purchased via the Wolf Trap Box Office, by calling 1 (877) WOLFTRAP or online at www.wolftrap.org For an up-to-date schedule visit their website.

Falls Church Memorial Day Parade

Monday May 28, 2012, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The City of Falls Church, Virginia celebrates Memorial Day with a festival featuring pony rides, arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, food and a community parade.

The City of Falls Church, Virginia celebrates Memorial Day with a full day of activities for the whole family. Enjoy amusement and pony rides, arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, food and a community parade.

Date and Time
May 28, 2012, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Rain or shine

Memorial Day Schedule
9 a.m. Don Beyer Volvo 3K Fun Run
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Tours of 163-Year-Old Cherry Hill Farmhouse
11 a.m. Veterans Ceremony at Veterans Memorial
2 p.m. Memorial Day Parade

Festival Location
Falls Church City Hall
300 Park Avenue.

Parade Location
Falls Church Community Center
223 Little Falls St.

For more information, call the Recreation & Parks Division at 703-248-5077