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Got Plans?
With the Entertainment Guide Staff
washingtonpost.com
Thursday, April 25, 2002; 1 p.m. EDT

Of course, we're happy to answer questions about local entertainment, but we need to hear from you, too. Introduce us to the coolest DJ or the fastest bartender you've encountered. Sound off on the week's best concert or the city's best burger. Tell us about the best place to amuse little kids or a big art fan. Together we can plan fun ways to spend weekdays, weekends, dates and holidays. The pleasure is ours, and yours.

Each week a different guru will act as host or hostess, but the entire staff is at your service. If you're looking for more ideas, see the Entertainment Guide.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

The Going Out Gurus: It's Bring-Your-Child-to-Work Day here at washingtonpost.com, and although Joe brings Fritz every day, as a special treat he's letting him sit on his lap for the duration of the chat. Awwww Fwitzy. Anyway, Guru-lovers, it's been a busy week for us here at the Entertainment Guide: Kate's wiped out from Filmfest; Maura made some hard decisions in the gift shop at the Jackie exhibit; Fritz worked late into the night at the new Wazuri; and yesterday, I was very busy eating one of the best burgers I've had in a long time. If you hadn't all eaten your lunches already, I'd tell you to hurry to Ray's the Steaks on Wilson Boulevard. Not only is the bun homemade and the patty a delightful amalgam of filet mignon and leanest sirloin, but the toppings (charred jalapeno, roasted garlic, aged cheddar, field mushrooms) made me smile my broadest smile. All this for a flat-rate of $6.95. Before we get down to biz, a special "hello" today goes to Elaine, and to Kathryn. (You girls know who you are.) So with that out of the way, let's make some plans?

Arlington, Va.: I am looking for some true wisdom for what looks like a rain filled weekend.

My brother and friends are coming into town this weekend and they would like to see something that is uniquely Washington, D.C. Between the three of them, they have seem all the usual monuments, musuems, etc. What do you recommend to avoid the rain?

Thank you in advance.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Arlington. Maura here. I find it hard to understand how people exhaust museums as their exhibits change all the time, but, moving on, have you thought about Filmfest 2002? Lots of films to check out and escape from the rain. The SpyDrive tour will show you Washington's sneakier side. Be sure to call for reservations. Or catch a show like Jay Bennett this Sunday at Iota. O.K. he's not from Washington, but Iota has some great shows. Enjoy your weekend.

Justin? J.C.? Lance?: In your e-mail newsletter, I read about that 'N Sync party at Platinum. I didn't bother going because the celebrities never show up at those things. You know, their names are always just to sell tickets. But I'm wondering, did any of the Gurus go? Did you meet any of the guys? I'm going to be SO JEALOUS if Justin was there.

The Going Out Gurus: Sorry to break your heart, Justin-lover, but none of the 'N Sync guys arrived for the afterparty at Platinum. Lots of their fans expected them to be, judging by the crowd (and chaperones) at Platinum on Sunday. I (Fritz) was in the VIP room with P.Diddy, who was wearing an incredibly cool old-school Bullets shoot-around shirt, and Nelly, who was wearing those band-aids. NCAA Basketball Champion Steve Blake was there, too. Lots of Cris and Mo, but I never got a chance to ask Diddy to pass the Courvoisier.

Them 'N Sync boys were at the soon-to-open Harbour Club on Saturday night, though.

Washington, D.C.: Hi gurus! Thanks for always doing a great job.

With summer approaching, I was wondering if you knew of some pools in the Dupont Circle/Downtown area that are available for public use. I know there is a public pool in Dupont (on 25th and N), but was more interested in purchasing a pass to an outdoor pool at a hotel or apartment complex in the area. (The public pool has no chairs.) Any info would be much appreciated!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC. Anne here, and I seem to remember that a lovely pool in Georgetown had chairs -- in the Volta Park area, near 34th Street and Volta Place. What I like about the DC public pools is how economical they are. I'm afraid I don't know of an apartment/hotel pool that sells passes to non-residents/guests. My sense is that those pools are only for the people living/staying there, or guests of those people. But perhaps some of you readers have an idea?

Washington, D.C.: A fun reasonably priced restaurant in Rockville, Md., for a young couple on a date?

Thanks. Enjoy the weather!

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, DC dater/Rockville diner. I (Jen) recommend Mykonos Grill (located near Congressional Plaza) - the food is excellent and the decor is very charming. It would make an ideal date spot. Added bonus: you can go to Tower Records afterwards! Other places you might consider: I've heard Cuban Corner is quite good, and, though it is a chain, there's always Copeland's if you're looking for a lively atmosphere.

Clifton, Va.: Hi,

I enjoy your chats and find them very helpful so I decided to finally submit a question. Next Friday, my husband and I are going to see "Mamma Mia" at the National Theatre at 8 p.m. Beforehand, we want to go to a nice restaurant with great food around the theater. Where would you recommend? Price isn't a concern and we tend to like elegant and either fine dining or something unusual. Also, since it's Friday night happy hour time, we don't want a place that's noisy with "happy" people. Thanks for your help.

The Going Out Gurus: Yes, Clifton, you can't overdose on the happy quotient during dinner; you have to save it for the ABBA songs. This is Jen, and I too am seeing "Mamma Mia" next week, though not on Friday. I am considering dining at Butterfield 9, Marcel's or Occidental Grill. Any of these sound good to you?

Washington, DC: Hi gurus. I need the final word on Acropolis. I know that people write in every week about it but can you just give us a once and for all answer - can anybody go or do you need to have a certain membership?

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Washington. This is Fritz, and my review of Acropolis is currently being edited. Until then, I can tell you this: the first floor of Acropolis will be open to everyone. But the more impressive VIP floor - accessible by private elevator - is only open to members. At the moment, though, you can get up there by paying a $20 cover - they haven't sold all their VIP memberships yet, so there's still room.

Alexandria, Va.: Hi!

I'm going to that new 3-D IMAX space movie (the one with Tom Cruise narrating, which is the only way they got me to agree to go) on Saturday with my husband and inlaws. We'd like to go to dinner afterward. Do you have any suggestions for restaurants that are somewhat close to the Air and Space Museum and in a mid price range? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Alexandria. You've got lots of options just across the Mall. Head up 7th or 8th streets to Jaleo, Austin Grill or Cafe Atlantico. As for Space Station 3D, I (Maura) was more disappointed than guru Kate or Weekend's Michael O'Sullivan, but it has its moments. Of course you don't actually SEE Tom in any of those moments.

Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: Hi, gurus.

I'm lookin' to grab a late-ish (hmmm... 8:30-ish) dinner with a date tomorrow night in Dupont. Any suggestions for a cute place, without a long wait, and moderately priced (this girl is paying!)? No real particulars on food.

Oh, yeah, and Metro accessible would be very cool.

Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Dupont, Kate here. Have you considered Cafe Citron? It's rightly famous for its happy hour mojitos, but its kitchen serves very good South American plates. As does Chi-Cha. Both are low lit, and make any girl (especially one with the check) look pretty good.

Capitol Hill: Having just had my tonsils out, I'm stuck inside doped up on codeine.

Who wants to bring me ice cream?

The Going Out Gurus: I'll be right there.

K Street Cube, Washington, D.C.: I have a couple tickets for tomorrow's Ella Fitzgerald tribute concert on U Street What's your top tip for drinks afterward with a mixed crowd, decent prices, bus/Metro access? Thanks as always!

The Going Out Gurus: One word, U-topia.

Arlington: Hey there Gurus! Two questions for you. I was just checking out Clarendon Ballroom's website. I've never been there and am curious so my questions are: (1) Jimmys Chicken Shack is playing there tonight. I've heard of them but never seen them. What's your opinion? Good, bad, average? (2) tomorrow is supposed to be a "new Friday event." Any idea what that event may be? Thanks so much and hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

The Going Out Gurus: Jimmie's Chicken Shack is a funk-metal-ska-type band from Annapolis. Party music and they've got a big local following, though I admit they don't really do too much for me (Joe). Don't know about the "new Friday event" but we'll check on it and try to have an answer by the end of this chat or next week.

South Arlington: There's a big banner on one of the vacant storefronts at Pentagon Row that says "Coming Soon: Wolfgang Puck." Any Guru Scoop on that? Are we getting real Puck or chain-Orlando-Las-Vegas Puck?

One of my fave spots now in Arlington: Circo in Courthouse Plaza (where PDR used to be). Good pasta, pizza, and they take a pork chop on the bone, pound it until it's plate sized, then they bread and fry it Milanese-style. Tasty.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Arlington. I (Maura) don't think Wolfgang is relocating to D.C., as glamorous as Pentagon Row might be. My guess is you'll see chain-Puck, which is one step up from grocery-store-freezer-case Puck, no?

And yes on Circo. We gurus have lunched there on occasion, most happily. Thanks!

Laurel, Md.: I'm in my double-digits and I love shoes, especially ones with a higher heel. Where can I find the best pair of supacool shoes? I wear a size 2.

The Going Out Gurus: Little Laurel, Kate here and I think I know who you are. Welcome to our chat and the world of shoe obsessionists! Is quantity better than quality? It is when your feet are still growing. Have you checked out the racks at Payless? I'm sure there's one near you. They have lots of groovy styles and the price doesn't hurt, ever.

College Park, Md.: My English professor suggested that we go to Bethesda on Saturday for a literary festival. I saw a list of speakers (including guru Jen), but I'm not sure what exactly is supposed to happen throughout the day. Can you give me an update?

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, CP. Props to your prof for recommending the Literary Festival - it should be a cool event, and I (Jen) swear I'd say that even if I weren't participating. It actually kicks off tonight and lasts through Sunday. Each day there are readings, poetry slams, book fairs and other literary type events happening at a variety of venues throughout the downtown Bethesda area, so you can pick and choose what to attend. Oh, and P.S. it's free. Take a look at this link, to see the whole line-up. There are some major names there, like David Brooks, Michael Connelly and Diane Rehm, plus little people like me. By the way, I'm talking at Rock Bottom at 4 on Saturday, so swing by if you're around. Oh, and bring Chris Wilcox with you. I'd like to have a word with him.

Arlington, Va.: Anyone privy to Washington Capital player hangouts?

The Going Out Gurus: In the past, we've spotted players in Bugsy's, a hockey-themed bar owned by former Caps defender Bryan Watson, and the Coyote Cafe, a restaurant/bar near the Caps' practice rink at Piney Orchard. The old-timers might remember Champions in Georgetown.

At this time of year, though, you might want to check our list of local golf courses.

Volunteer Options: Does the Post have a handy guide to places to volunteer? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Kate here, V.O. and the answer is "no," at least for now. We're spending the majority of our time dining and drinking and dancing so you can too. That said, half of the Gurus volunteer at least once a week and this is a city full of arts, sports, medical, literacy-related projects. Maybe we could make some recommendations. Where do you live, how much time do you have, what are your special interests and are you looking for a volunteer group that puts you in a team or would you be happier working one on one? We might be able to help, but you should try D.C. Single Volunteers (www.singlevolunteers.org/dc/) and Hands On D.C.(www.handsondc.org) -- they are in the business of tailoring opportunities and people.

Reston, Va.: Hey, this is waaaay off topic. What's the name of the fondue restaurant in Paris that serves vin in baby bottles?

I've been racking my brain over this all week. Does it still exist?? It was open when I lived there like 4 years ok.

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Le Refuge?

20006: How did you guys get your jobs? I assume you all have journalism degrees? If one wanted to pursue your line of work and they are let's say, about 3 years out of undergrad, how would you recommend going about it?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello 20006, this is Joe and the truth is almost every last one of us is a college dropout. The real key to our jobs is physical fitness. We are all able to run 5 miles in under 28 minutes and we start each day with an exhausting push up and weightlifting session. The training isn't easy but without it these chats would trail off after about 25 minutes. (ok, seriously, I do recommend journalism school. Or just writing for anyone who will let you write for them. Or going to work for a small paper.)

Adams Morgan/Dupont: My sister's in town from Colorado today and tomorrow and I want to WOW her and her boyfriend (who's never been to the east coast!). Where are all the beautiful people at happy hour and thereafter on a Thursday night? (We are 23 and 24 respectively.) I was thinking Toka? Bar Rouge? Reef? I want to make sure my bases are covered.

Thanks, you guys are great!

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, AM. This is Fritz. If they like chic cocktails and bar snacks, I'd say Toka. Rouge is great, and gets younger as the night goes on. Not much of a happy hour scene, really. If they like beer as well, try Reef, which draws a diverse neighborhood crowd.

And I'll throw this one out for people to make more suggestions.

Bethesda, Md.: Do you know of any Lacrosse team leagues or clubs in the area?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, Bethesda. You might try this page on the Washington Power's Web site, where they have a lot of lacrosse links. Potomac Lacrosse has a league for men, if that applies to you. Based in Bethesda, PlayHer Sports organizes leagues for girls lacrosse, and I (Anne) bet the local women who run it could help you find women's leagues. Can any lacrosse-playing readers help?

First time Buzzgoer: I was thinking about taking a cab with some friends to Nation this Friday for buzz, and I was wondering whether you think it's safe to assume we can catch a cab there when we leave (say between 1 and 2 AM)?

The Going Out Gurus: If you're leaving between 1 and 2, FTB, you might want to consider taking Metro, which is two blocks away. The last train leaves at 1:39. I wouldn't assume you can catch a cab.

Bethesda, Md.: Submitting early because of a meeting. My parents are coming down from Baltimore on Saturday, and want to take my wife and I to lunch to celebrate our one year anniversary. They said choose somewhere nice, but we're having trouble picking a place because most of the places we'd choose are closed for lunch. We've been to, and really like, Addie's, Blacks, Persimmon, etc., and would like to try someplace new. Any suggestions in the Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Rockville, upper NW area? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Bethesda. Maura again. I feel your pain as I've tried to do weekend lunch in Bethesda with my parents and very few nicer restaurants are open at such an hour. Centro and Green Papaya are two I can recommend. You might love Chef Geoff's on New Mexico Ave in Upper Northwest. Casual, but oh-so pleasant. The Inn at Glen Echo is quite nice as well. Happy Anniversary.

Chocoholic: Hi Gurus-

What can you tell me about the new Harbour Club? I thought it was just a restaurant - will it be clubby as well (something like 1223?)

And dish about Wazuri - how was it?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, Chocoholic. This is Fritz. Harbour Club will indeed be a seafood restaurant, with outdoor seating, but also will open late for people who want to sip cocktails while gazing into the 3,000 gallon fish tank they've installed. The big opening party is May 3.

As for Wazuri, I talked about last week, but here's the scoop again: Great African food, with appetizers large enough to be a meal, a huge rooftop deck and outdoor seating area, and some of the best fruity drinks in town, thanks to bartender/owner Kojo Davis, formerly of the Bukom Cafe. He makes a mean mojito, my old favorite the Bukom Bomb, and a drink called the Blue Nile, which contains blue curacao, coconut rum and fruit juice. Very freshing on a hot day.

Glover Park, DC: Hey gurus, Love the chat. Any word on Tom Tom's? Suggestions on something like it?
Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, GP. Tom Tom is being renovated, but I think they've been working on that place for over a year now. First it was going to be a sports bar, then a restaurant, then it was going to reopen as Tom Tom. I haven't heard from them in ages. Maybe it's time to visit them again.

Washington, D.C.: I really need to find a place that sells pumas...and not just the plain ones you can get at foot locker, any ideas?

The Going Out Gurus: Urban Outfitters had some good ones a while ago. Or you can try Nordstrom.

Fairfax, Va.: I am going to see "Mamma Mia" on the 4th and I am wondering what restuarants have good (good meaning quality and selection) fixed price theater menus? I know of 701 and 1789; any others that have a great deal?

Thanks for your help!

The Going Out Gurus: Hmmm... I (Jen) am not 100 percent sure, but I think the aforementioned Butterfield 9 or Marcel's has a fixed-price theater deal. So does Brasserie at the Watergate (formerly Dominique's), though it wouldn't put you as close to the National. I'm sure other theater-going eaters have ideas - kids, your thoughts?

Washington DC: EEEP! Going to my first Gold Cup next weekend. Any tips? And more importantly, what do I wear? Especially if it's cold and nasty like today....

The Going Out Gurus: Hi Washington -- and the other Gold Cup first timer --. Based on last year, I (Maura) say for better or worse people at Gold Cup will be sporting if not their finest at least their preppiest. Boys don't need suits, but some wear sport jackets. As for ladies, dresses seemed the most popular choice and while hats weren't uncommon, they're hardly required. Kate, Fritz and I were on the more casual side last year, but we, alas, were working, not enjoying ourselves. And if it's nasty like today, are you sure you want to go?

Washington, DC: Do you know if there is going to be a map on the web somewhere of where exactly the "party animals" are going to be. I'd rather not have to walk aimlessly through all of downtown in the hopes of running into them.

Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi D.C. Soon you will be able to walk aimlessly around downtown and stumble into elephants and donkeys. If you'd rather plan your hunt, I (Maura) believe we'll have a map up next week. All the Party Animals won't hit the streets until the week after next and they're here through September, so you'll have lots of time to get to know them.

From a reputable source...: Rumor has it that Fritz is engaged.
Do tell.

The Going Out Gurus: Kathryn, is that you, dropping big hints again?

Bowie, Md.: I'm looking for a decent bar/club to go for some jazz or blues (or even big band?) somewhere in the Laurel/Crofton/Odenton maybe even Annapolis area. Someplace nice to just have a few drinks and listen to some music. I'm sure there are plenty of places, just wanted a few recommendations?

The Going Out Gurus: Bowie, this is fellow Bowieite Fritz, and I have no idea about jazz in Laurel, Crofton or Odenton. Now, if you want to talk about Annapolis, there's the Eastport Clipper, which has big band music, 49 West (at 49 West St.), the Rams Head Tavern ... Middleton Tavern has piano trios.

Someone, help me out.

About the Party Animals: I think I read (in the Post's story, of course) that Metro stations would start distributing maps of the animals' locations next week...

The Going Out Gurus: You're right. You can also pick up maps at Metro Stations, hopefully beginning next week.

Washington, D.C.: Hey guys, great service you have here! As a relative newcomer, I've learned quite a bit on where to go in D.C. Anyway, my mom is coming to town this weekend and I'm wondering if you have any ideas for some Saturday night fun. She classy and cool (but no ESL for her). Daytime is easy -- sites, Hotel Washington, etc. But for the night, I'm left scratching my head. Theater? A great dinner? Tips? Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks D.C. I (Kate) had my parents and sister in town last weekend and we went to The Reef on Sunday night. We also did a lot of "parents in town"-y things too: National Museum of Women in the Arts, National Arboretum.

Saturday night might be a good time to go to the theater. Have an early dinner at Sushi Taro and walk up P Street to Studio Theatre for "Prometheus." You never know what TICKETplace will have on hand, but it's worth stopping by -- en route to monument or museums -- on Saturday morn. See if there are any for either of Arena's shows: "Polk County" or previews for "Moon for the Misbegotten." I also want to recommend the Smithsonian Craft Show. I went last night and once again, it's a wonder -- 120 artists handpicked for this juried show from more than 1,400 applicants. It's the Ivy Leagues for master crafts people, many of whom are on hand to talk about their pottery, fabric arts, weaving, hat making, jewelry, etc. Of course some of it is dreadful, but more often or not it is truly mindblowing.

And finally, if you're both worn out by Saturday evening, consider having cocktails at the Town & Country. They make a gin & tonic that my mother (apologies, Wendy) thinks is one of the best.

Re: Volunteering: I was just recently wondering about Volunteer opportunties myself. Here is a good link that I found:
http://dcpages.com/Community/Volunteer_and_Community_Service/

The Going Out Gurus: Ta, Helpful!

Re: Volunteering: Capital Action is another good organization that combines volunteer opps with meeting new people and having fun. Check out www.capitalaction.org

The Going Out Gurus: I knew you guys would come through. Thanks!

Ellicott City, MD: I was at the (life altering) McCartney show last night. Wanted dinner before the show but everything around (Chophouse, Jaleo) was of course packed. Where would you suggest I go in the future that's within walking distance (or maybe I should Metro somewhere)? We ended up at Fado, which was good but would like more options. Thanks!

The Going Out Gurus: Ellicott: I (Jen) had the same problem when I went to a (life-altering) U2 show last summer at MCI. On the night of a major event, restaurants and bars in the area are going to be crowded. There's really no way around it. You can either head downtown very early, before the mob swells, or, as you suggest, eat elsewhere and Metro over. If you have some time beforehand and can go two more stops on the red line, you'll be in Dupont, where there are tons of options: Pizzeria Paradiso, Lauriol Plaza, Etrusco, and more.

Happy Hour: I visited your list of Happy Hour places, but still have a couple of quick questions. Where is a good place in between 20th and P and 21st and H to go for a quick drink after work. We would like it quiet enough so we could talk and one of us does not drink. Thanks! You guys are awesome!!!

The Going Out Gurus: That's a very narrow request, HH. Duck one block in the other direction and hit Toka, where they have $5 cocktails and really good bar snacks for the non-drinker (Crab Croquettes, anyone?).

Washington, D.C.: Thanks for all of the help and the support with my dad's visit (the gyms, park-neighborhood tie-ins, etc.). Talked to him tonight and he asked about nature tours by boat. Found info in your Entertainment Guide on ones in Rock Creek Park, Seneca State Park, and Burke Lake Park. Does anyone know which of these is most accessible from D.C. and is most worth it? Also, are there other opportunities like this? Thanks!

I also have a question for me (!). My husband and I purchased general admission tickets online for the Bering Strait film on Friday. Any suggestion for how early we should arrive? Thanks.

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, DC. Let's take care of you first: For most of the FilmfestDC movies, people sometimes start lining up an hour ahead of time, but usually doors don't open until 20-30 minutes before the show. Since The Ballad of Bering Strait is at Lisner, I (Anne) would expect a bigger crowd. Worst case scenario: you're sitting in the front row.

For dad's nature tour by boat, I'd pick Burke Lake, just because it's so big. The Rock Creek tour is on Lake Needwood in Rockville, the northern-most extension of Rock Creek Park -- that one's probably the closest to get to, mileage-wise. Here's another story on touring Washington by boat. And may we say, we are very impressed with your searching skills!

DC: Hi gurus! Can you help me find a great, kid-friendly place for breakfasty-brunch in Greenbelt or Riverdale, MD? (Or anywhere in that general area?) Thanks!!

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, DC. I (Fritz) can report that Franklin's, just a short hop away on Route 1 in old Hyattsville, has a very kid-friendly menu, including brunch.

Washington, DC: Top of the afternoon to you, gurus!

My question is this: I have a dear friend coming to visit me from out of town, one who is from South Africa and lived here in the states for years but has never been to our nation's capital. That said, I was wondering if there were any specific museums/restaurants/suggestions you would have that centered around the African theme. I know that's pretty broad, but I would love to give her a taste of something homey and familiar.

By the way, your chats are very helpful, always amusing, and thanks for all your help!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi D.C. Aren't you a thoughtful friend. As for African art, I (Maura) think there's no more exhaustive site in Washington than the National Museum of African Art, including some great contemporary works. The Baltimore Museum of Art also has a nice collection. Galleries like Dupont Circle's Affrica specialize in African art. As for cuisine, check out this list and take your pick.

Arlington, VA: For the person looking for a pool membership, the Sheraton in Woodley Park used to offer seasonal memberships to their pools-- this was a few years ago, but might be worth checking into.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks!

NSync: I literally ran into Nelly on the stairs at Platinum when he and his entourage arrived. I was annoyed that a huge group of people were coming up, as I was stuck on the landing. Then suddenly, Whoa Nelly! I had to grab his arm for balance. I nearly swooned. Also enjoyed watching P Diddy seducing a young lady in the corner of the VIP section. He seemed much more interested in her than his Bad Boy crew.

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the scoop. Were any of those buckets of Cristal yours?

Washington, D.C.: For the person asking about pools in D.C., I believe the Hilton on Conn. Ave between DuPont and Woodley has memberships available -- it may be for the pool/gym facility, I'm not sure, and I'm sure it's not terribly inexpensive, but I also don't think I've heard it's over the top pricey either -- and it's a very nice pool.

The Going Out Gurus: Shame on you D.C. Kate here, and you're telling the world about my secret place. I get most of my napping done in the shade by the Hilton's deep end. I'm a year-round member -- which takes guts when it's just me and six ancient ladies on yoga mats -- and I think that's expensive. Summer memberships are even worse, and at the 500 dollar mark for three months don't automatically include use of the fine clay tennis courts. Memberships are sold out of the health club on the 19th Street side. The pool itself is good and their "drinks are okay by the pool policy" is great, if (a lime) twist irresponsible.

Washington, D.C.: Any pay what you can previews coming up? Also, do you know where to get discount "Mamma Mia" tickets?

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) hate to break the news, but I don't know of a way to get discount "Mamma Mia" tix. Ticketplace has not been selling any, and I think the show's doing well enough that National doesn't need or want to offer any discounts. Of course, if someone else knows of a way, please chime in.

Regarding pay-what-you-cans, Keegan Theatre is currently doing two one-acts ("Precious Lam" and "Waiting for the Slow Dance") that are pay-what-you-can all the time. Both got good reviews in yesterday's Style. If you want to plan ahead, I also see that Studio has a pay-what-you-can performance on May 28 of their upcoming Kenneth Lonergan play "Lobby Hero." Sounds intriguing to me.

Petworth: For pre-MCI Center event dining, you could also hop on up the green line a stop, and go to AV. Eat Italian, listen to the opera jukebox. 6th St and NY Ave NW, right by the Mt Vernon Square station.

The Going Out Gurus: Good thought - thanks, Petworth.

NoVa: Has anyone detected a pattern or schedule in the apperance of Trombone and Tuba "bands" in Dupont Circle?

Thanks

The Going Out Gurus: Rhome here, throwing this one out to the group. This article pegs them vaguely as being out on "summer evenings." Next time you see them, just ask. I'll do the same and we'll report back.

Fairfax, VA: Are there any gay/lesbian bars OUTSIDE DC proper? I am new to the area and have no idea how do find the gay scene.

The Going Out Gurus: Gosh Fairfax, this is Kate and we're as stumped as you are. There must be choices now that Hunt Club in Alexandria has closed. I know there must be something closer to you than Dupont -- can anyone help us out?

LOLA: Re: Volunteer opportunities:

Check out

http://www.volunteermatch.org/

It is a great website where you can browse volunteer opportunities by zip code, or by type of activity.

It covers the whole U.S.

The Going Out Gurus: Go showgirl!

Washington, DC: I'm looking to throw a birthday party for a friend of mine from Georgia. I'd like to give him a taste of home by having it in a country western bar or something close to it. Any suggestions either in DC or the surrounding areas?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, Washington. Here's a list of bars that have country dancing, whether two-steppin' or boot scootin'. Some other options might include J.V.'s in Falls Church, Chick Hall's Surf Club, Whitey's in Arlington, or Renzo's in Silver Spring, where they have cold Bud and country karaoke every Saturday night.

re: Bethesda, MD: Don't know if open for Sunday lunch, but Cottonwood Cafe and La Panaterria on Cordell are very good and have excellent service.

The Going Out Gurus: I (Jen) like Cottonwood, too. Thanks for the tips.

Arlington, Va.: Hi Gurus! The adventurist in me was wondering if any of you knew of any good skidiving places nearby?!

The Going Out Gurus: Hey, Adverturin' Arlingtonian. The closest one we know of is the College Park Skydiving Crew, but Kate recommends considering the view you'll see as you fall -- we bet Skydive Orange would set up you over beautiful country. Type "skydiving" in our search box for more options.

Washington, D.C. Cube: Hi Gurus,

I have tickets to Hotel on Sunday (the last of the filmfests) and saw there is a party after at 2:K:9. Any scoop on this?

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, D.C. Kate here and I'm going too! I've got higher hopes for the film than the afterparty (yes, 2:k:9 has their liquor license back, but last time I was there club looked a bit dingy). Mike Figgis's "Timecode" really knocked me when I saw it at Filmfest and I'm hungry for that same experience. Eddie Cockrell from the A.F.I. saw it and wrote that it has a "Nashville"-ish feeling, which I take as a very good sign, no? See you there, Cube.

HELP!: Was going to gather a big group (13) of friends at Jaleo next week for my birthday, but I just called and the guy on the line was a complete -----. They won't let me make a reservation and suggested that we come in at 5 or 8:30. (That's SO not going to happen.)

So, please! Where should we go? Fun. Downtown/Dupont/Adams-Mo. Good drinkies. Laid-back. Decidedly non------like staff.

The Going Out Gurus: H!, funnily enough, I recently spoke to Jaleo about a big group gathering and the woman was actually quite pleasant, although I think I've spoken to that guy before (no, not nice). I pretty much got the same answer from the woman I spoke to, but as they only reserve 30% of their tables, I guess that's that.

Other ideas, try A.V. Ristorante (ask for the front room), Penang or reserve the side room at Chi-Cha.

Petworth, Washington, D.C.: To push my favorite neighborhood place again -- it's not on your list yet!

For the person looking for African -- come up to Petworth, and check out Safari D.C. It's a nice place, owned by Kenyans, serving good Kenyan food (short menu), and nice drinks. Later in the evening, it becomes a dance club. Happy hour from 5-8 every day. Beers are two for $5 during happy hour.

Four blocks up from the Georgia Avenue/Petworth Metro stop, on the west side of Georgia Avenue, just above the intersection of Georgia and Kansas.

The Going Out Gurus: Can't have a chat without a tip from Petworth. Thanks!

Washington, DC: I'm going to be down at Constitution Hall for a church service on Sunday. Any suggestions for a "not too fancy" lunch spot in the nearby area? We'll be touring the Mall area afterwards. Thanks so much!!!

The Going Out Gurus: Hi, D.C. You could try Georgia Brown's, though that might be a little fancy, or possibly Old Ebbitt Grill.

The burger question: I'd like to know if the burgers at Ray's are better than the burgers at Broad Street Grill? I was going to go to Broad Street for a burger tonight. Should I go to Ray's instead?

The Going Out Gurus: I'd say head to Ray's. Always good to support a new business, I feel, and those burgers really are first class.

DC: How does one become a VIP at places like Acropolis, 1223, etc.? You mentioned they're still selling VIP memberships, how much do people actually pay for those things? How long are they good for? What do you get other than access to another floor?

The Going Out Gurus: You pay, D.C. This is Fritz, and memberships at places like Dream, MCCXXIII and Platinum range from a few hundred bucks to $2000. Time varies as well, from a year to lifetime memberships. What you get varies -- access to extra floors, humidors, private parties, free liquor, guest passes, etc. It's up to you whether you really, really love a club so much that you'd want to spend thousands of dollars there each year.

Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: No Doubt show tomorrow night? Suggestions for preshow bar in foggy bottom area for me and my pals?

The Going Out Gurus: Hello, Capitol Hill. Near GW, I (Fritz) like Marshall's, Lindy's Red Lion, Tequilla Grill at happy hour (very young, after-work crowd) and sometimes Froggy Bottom. Other times, I can't stand the place. Other suggestions?

Adams Morgan, Washington, D.C.: I know it's probably been said before, but I think it's especially pertinent with the approaching summer/patio/intern season. On behalf of the residents of Adams Morgan (and I'm sure the same could be stated by those from Georgetown, Dupont, and U Street), we thank you all for coming into our neighborhoods to hang out. Hey, it saves me cab fare when I want to go out. However, please please respect our neighborhoods. Do not throw your pizza/empanada/gyro wrappers or beer bottles on our streets and sidewalks. Do not stumble around like a drunken buffoon at 4 a.m., and please try to keep the noise levels to a reasonable level. We love where we live, and we adore the excitement that comes from living in such a vibrant neighborhood. I just want to love it as much on a Sunday morning as I do on a Saturday night, and that's hard when someone's vomited on your front stoop.

Thanks, GOGs -- I love you guys!

The Going Out Gurus: Thanks for the reminder, AM.

The Going Out Gurus: Folks, sad but true, the chat is over. Also true is that fact that our Fritz -- contrary to popular belief -- is NOT in any way, shape, or form engaged. We ask politely that you withhold your congrats at this time.

We'll miss you this week, but know you'll be back. 'Til then, as ever, your Gurus.

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