Optional Special Events

Capitol Steps Performance | Saturday, September 6, 2008, 7:30-9:30 p.m. | Ticket Price: $34/each

Capitol Steps is a troupe of current and former Congressional staffers who satirize the very people and places that once employed them. They monitor events and personalities on Capitol Hill, in the Oval Office, and other centers of power, taking a humorous look at serious issues and providing laughs for millions. Since they began over 25 years ago, Capitol Steps has become a Washington, D.C., institution for providing a tasteful blend of musical and political comedy.

Please note that transportation is on your own to get to the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, which is easily accessible by taxi, Metro, and car. The performance will take place in the Trade Center’s Amphitheater, which is located on the concourse level of the building. The building is located at 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, and it is Metro accessible via the Federal Triangle and Metro Center stations.  The Ronald Reagan Building is a federal building, and you will need a photo ID to enter the building. Any elderly or handicapped persons needing assistance or directions once inside the building should ask the nearest security personnel staff for assistance.

Wreath Laying Ceremony-Arlington National Cemetery | Sunday, September 7, 2008, 1:15 p.m. | No Cost

If your travel plans allow, we encourage you to join in witnessing a special wreath laying ceremony on behalf of the members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery on Sunday, September 7, at 1:15 p.m. While there is no cost for you to attend, we would appreciate it if you could let us know if you will be present for this ceremony by checking the appropriate box on the registration form.

The gift of flowers at a memorial site is a ritual that occurs around the world, understood in every culture. The floral tributes at funerals bespeak both the beauty and the brevity of life and evoke memories of other days. And the laying of the wreath by members of GFWC will provide all those present the opportunity to honor and remember members of the armed forces who have served and died for their country.

It is recommended that those members who wish to watch the wreath laying ceremony should be at the Tomb of the Unknowns by 12:45 p.m., as viewing space fills up quickly and is on a first come, first-served basis.
In addition, transportation to Arlington National Cemetery will be on your own. The Key Bridge Marriott is only one Metro stop from Arlington National Cemetery (Rosslyn to Arlington National Cemetery on the blue line) and taxi fare from the hotel to the cemetery is approximately $6-$8 for four people each way. We encourage you, if your schedule permits, to stay and explore Arlington National Cemetery and the Women In Military Service to America Memorial following the wreath laying ceremony, which will end at approximately 1:30 p.m.