So did you see the big game on NBC yesterday?

You heard me right.

Yesterday’s big game wasn’t played in Miami, aired on CBS, filled with cheesy, stupid commercials. It was right here in DC, in the heart of snowmageddon. It was the Pittsburgh Penguins against the Washington Capitals. And yesterday, that game lived up to every fan’s dream, regardless which side of center ice they were on.

Seriously. Four times a year these two rivals meet – and I wouldn’t be presumptuous at all to claim that both the Pens and the Caps see it as an archrivalry. It’s probably one of the most intense regular-season contest series in all of hockey, and yesterday was no exception. (To drive home the point – I climbed up on my roof to clear it of snow just so my DirecTV dish could receive the game. No AM radio for me!)

‘Rock The Red (Wide) at Verizon Center’
courtesy of ‘clydeorama’

By now, everyone here knows of the result. A 5-4 OT win for the Caps, borne on the shoulders of Ovechkin’s hat trick and Mike Knuble’s OT poke from the crease. It was yet another third period rally by the Caps on their way to an impressive 14 game win streak, the third-best in NHL history.

There were a lot of storylines going into this game yesterday. The blizzard conditions and the massive dig-out that hampered even Caps owner Ted Leonsis; the exhausting travel period for the Penguins from Saturday’s game in Montreal; the concern that fans might endanger themselves going into town for this clash of hockey titans; the ever-present individual rivalries of both team captains. But when you got right down to it, it’s a heated and simmering rivalry between two teams that has continued to boil for over a decade and every game between them is going to be epic.

From start to finish, this game felt not like a regular season game, but a playoff one. The intensity from the players, coaches, and even fans was beyond a normal game. The Penguins came in reeling from a nasty loss to Montreal the night before and needing to prove themselves worthy of their Stanley Cup Champion title; the Caps were ready to prove themselves heirs to that title as well as maintain their impressive streak. While the outcome of the game didn’t result in the handing off of the Cup, it has set the tone for the last two games between them and – if everything falls into place in the postseason – an epic playoff series to come.

Proof? Look at the numbers. Over 70 minutes in penalties, 4 game misconducts, 9 goals – 5 of which by the first and second place goal scorers in the league (Ovechkin leads with 42, Sidney Crosby with 39), 69 shots on goal (35 by Pittsburgh), 49 hits (32 by the Caps), 11 consecutive home wins for the Caps (franchise record), and Caps goalie Jose Theodore’s own personal best of a 10 game winning streak.

Fact is, the Capitals are DC’s best sports franchise now, bar none. Yesterday’s game didn’t prove that – it only substantiated it. They don’t have to prove anything to anyone, not any more.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a diehard Penguins fan. Hard to break 24 years of conditioning, after all. But the Capitals are probably the one rivalry I respect and look forward to every year in hockey now, because frankly, these are two of the best teams on ice these days. And every time they play it’s like Super Bowl Sunday around here. GM George McPhee and Coach Bruce Boudreau have really impressed me with the building and managing of this team; every night they play is entertaining and a showcase of skill and teamwork, you can’t help but walk away rooting for them – even if only a little. Only Flyers fans could be so calloused and cold – but then again, they’re Flyers fans. (Just kidding! Okay, maybe.)

Enjoy the winning feeling, Caps fans. With this team and coaching staff, you’ll get to enjoy it for a long time coming. And I’ve no doubt that soon enough, Lord Stanley’s Cup will make a year-long stopover in the nation’s capital. And I’ll be in line with the rest of you to enjoy it.

SNOW! Snowmageddon, snowpocalypse, snOMG, snogasm, snobama, Tai Shan’s last dump – whatever you want to call it, the frozen white stuff dominated our weekend. (And like unwanted houseguests, will linger for many more days to come.) Even with the nearly three feet of snow dropped in the DC area, many of our area photographers ventured out into the blizzard and its aftermath.

So while you enjoy your snow day, here’s some photos from the “Blizzard of 2010″ for you to enjoy. Probably best if you had some warm tea/coffee/hot chocolate, a roaring fire, and a blanket while you check them out…

”
courtesy of ‘erin m’

‘DSC_4765′
courtesy of ‘Ghost_Bear’

”
courtesy of ’shbaker99′

‘L’Enfant Plaza’
courtesy of ‘Rukasu1′

‘Tow truck in the Snowmageddon’
courtesy of ‘theqspeaks’

‘Snow Ball Fight’
courtesy of ’shbaker99′

‘US Capitol in the snow’
courtesy of ‘treegrow’

”
courtesy of ‘LaTur’

”
courtesy of ‘erin m’

‘DSC_4759′
courtesy of ‘Ghost_Bear’

”
courtesy of ‘erin m’

’snow tree’
courtesy of ‘christaki’

‘Front loader tire treads’
courtesy of ‘Micha84′

‘A Visitor..’
courtesy of ‘Roger Photos’

‘We had a little snow today, #2.’
courtesy of ‘andertho’

‘Day One after Blizzard 2010′
courtesy of ‘KrS-NrY’

‘Wishing for a Snow Day on Monday’
courtesy of ‘Kevin H.’

‘not fit for man or beast’
courtesy of ‘philliefan99′

‘idle spreader’
courtesy of ‘philliefan99′

Just like every other hockey fan in the area, I’ve been wondering with baited breath whether today’s noontime matchup between the Washington Capitals and the visiting Pittsburgh Penguins was actually going to happen.

It is.

Now before you get up and rush out the door, some things to consider. First, Metro’s running underground-only, so if you’re beyond the downtown core, you have to drive in because Metrobus is out as well. BUT! Pretty much every city and county official inside and outside the Beltway are begging us to stay home if we can. Crews are working hard to clear streets and trying to restore power to affected areas; you’ll only get in the way (especially if you think you can drive in the snow; chances are, you really, really can’t).

Caps owner Ted Leonsis feels for you – he’s snowed in, too. And, according to his latest blog post, he can’t offer refunds or ticket exchanges for the game today if you can’t make it.

“I have the exact same issues as you do in getting to the game. It is important to realize that weather plays a role in many cities for many games and that as long as the teams, the officials and the building support staffs are in place and the networks can broadcast – it is game on.”

So, do as I am doing today – settle into your living room and watch the game on NBC. Ovechkin and crew may not hear you at the Verizon Center, but they know you’re behind them all the way. Let the epic struggle begin!

Every Friday for the next six weeks, the International Spy Museum (ISM) will be debuting a new exhibit within the museum, including the addition of several new rare artifacts from the shadowy world of espionage. These new additions (some for a limited time only) join the already-extensive collection regarding the world’s “second-oldest profession” and the new gallery dedicated to espionage in the 21st Century. Several of these exhibits will tie into special programs occurring at the museum over the next few months, covering not only the secret history of spying but also exploring today’s hottest topics that daily impact the world of intelligence. “Espionage deals with clandestine, hidden information and the best spies make sure their every trace disappears, which makes finding personal pieces of tradecraft very challenging,” says Anna Slafer, ISM’s Director of Exhibitions and Programs. “Many of our new artifacts have to come us from intelligence agencies and the families of these famous spies, giving us a detailed story of these object’s role in history.”

And the lineup, after the jump.

Who's Who in the CIA - Courtesy of the Family of Richard S. Welch

2/5/10 Aurora Experiment. Playing in the Spy Museum’s new gallery dedicated to cyber warfare is Weapons of Mass Disruption, a video of an experiment conducted for the Department of Homeland Security that depicts a simulated cyber attack on a generator control station. The simulation led to the generator’s destruction, demonstrating the all-too-real infrastructure vulnerabilities of the U.S. power grid. On loan from four of the lead engineers who created and carried out the Aurora experiment, the museum is will display parts of the disabled generator.

2/12/10 Richard Welch Exhibit. CIA Station Chief Richard Welch was assassinated in Greece in 1975 by the radical Marxist organization Revolutionary Organization 17 November (17N). Welch had previously been outed as a CIA operative in the East German publication Who’s Who in CIA. His assassination eventually led to the Intelligence Identities Protection Act. On loan from the Welch family, the Museum will display the wristwatch Welch was wearing at the time of his assassination, copies of Who’s Who in CIA and the Senate Hearing leading to the Intelligence Identities Protection Act, and a reproduction 17N terrorist flag.

Cairncross Passport-Courtesy H. Keith Melton

2/19/10 George Washington Letter. Were you aware that George Washington was also America’s first spymaster? Part of the Museum’s permanent collection, the original 1777 letter from Washington to Mr. Nathaniel Sackett requesting the establishment of a spy network in New York, will be on display just in time for George’s birthday.

2/26/10 Cambridge Five. Disillusioned by capitalism and British imperialism, Kim Philby was ready to explore any new idea; communism became particularly attractive to him. A member of a group of students from Cambridge University united by their beliefs Philby forged one of the most successful spy operations in history. On loan from H. Keith Melton, one of ISM’s board members, the Museum will have on display several of Philby’s personal items including a flask, camera, coat, and a photo of Lenin. Joining these are additional Cambridge Five artifacts including fellow conspirator John Cairncross’ passport and a 1st edition book written by Anthony Blunt.

Toy Truck 2-Courtesy of Canadian Security Intelligence Service

3/5/10 Canadian Intelligence. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has loaned several artifacts for display in the “School for Spies” gallery. Previously on display in the Canadian Embassy, these tools of the trade will include a camera concealed in a woman’s handbag, a toy truck with a miniature one-time pad, special lens and encoding sheet hidden inside, and a concealment device designed to look like a tree branch. CSIS has also loaned several items pertaining to Igor Gouzenko, a clerk for Soviet military intelligence at the Soviet Embassy in Canada, who defected and often regarded as the first instance of Cold War espionage. Gouzenko’s gun, written statement to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and scrapbook of his clippings will have a dedicated case in the “Red Terror” gallery.

3/12/10 Elizabeth Van Lew Artifact. A new acquisition to the museum’s permanent collection, this copybook by Virginia-based Civil War Union spy Elizabeth Van Lew will join the “Sisterhood of Spies” gallery. Written prior to Van Lew’s spy ring leadership, the book reveals a significant and oft-quoted passage: “Keep your mouth shut and your eyes and ears open.”

The International Spy Museum is located at 800 F. Street NW, in DC’s Penn Quarter. Tickets for the museum and other experiences can be purchased online or by calling 202.393.7798. The museum is currently running a 2-for-1 ticket special called “Operation: Snow Pea”, which expires February 28.

Congratulations to the Washington Capitals for setting a franchise record last night! With their 4-1 whipping of the Boston Bruins, the Caps are sitting on an amazing 11 game win streak, stemming back from Ovechkin’s anointing as team captain.

It wasn’t a sure thing until the third period, however. Both teams fought a solid game through two periods, and the 1-1 score going into the last 20 minutes reflected it. But, as seems to be standard Caps operating procedure lately, around five minutes in the Caps just exploded. Brooks Laich and Alexander Semin made Boston’s Matt Hunwick pay on a turnover to gain the Caps’ first lead of the game. Boyd Gordon dropped in his second of the season and then Ovie capped it with an empty netter. Mike Knuble continued his strong play of late with the tying goal early in the second period.

The Caps are sitting pretty at the top of the Eastern Conference with a 10 point lead over New Jersey and face the New York Rangers tomorrow at Madison Square Garden.

One Cubic Foot; photo courtesy of the National Geographic Society

Don’t forget to enter for your chance to win a pair of tickets to an upcoming event at National Geographic! Many thanks to NatGeo for this great offer for WeLoveDC readers; if you’ve not signed up in comments for your chance, you’ve got until 1 pm tomorrow (Tuesday).

While Saturday proved to be more than just a ‘dusting,’ it was still less than our Snowpocalypse of December. And when there’s light, fluffy snow and a sunny day afterward, it’s just natural to have photographers out in droves to capture the beauty created around the capital area.

Enjoy.

‘The Lonely End of the Rink’
courtesy of ‘Rukasu1′

‘Mt Vernon Place United Methodist Church’
courtesy of ‘hohandy (remembering what the dormouse said)’

‘Navy Memorial Tiered Snow’
courtesy of ‘Mr. T in DC’

‘Cattails, Snow’
courtesy of ‘andertho’

‘Washington, DC 2010 107′
courtesy of ‘giantminispacegoat’

”
courtesy of ‘erin m’

Chimps of Goualougo; Photo courtesy National Geographic Society

The spring season of National Geographic Live – a series of dynamic lectures, concerts, films and more – kicks off next week.

This year, the National Geographic Society has graciously offered some event tickets to our readers. If you’re interested in winning a pair of tickets to any of the events below, simply remark in comments which two events – in preferred order – you’d like to attend. We’ll do a random drawing on Tuesday afternoon (Feb. 2nd) after 1pm and we’ll get the winners set up with their first (or second, if your first choice is full) selection. Keep in mind that tickets are for single events only, not multi-part series or showings, unless otherwise indicated. (The kung-fu film festival is an exception; you can win tickets for all three movies!)

Okay, enough about rules. Check out the February offerings after the jump.

Choir; photo courtesy of the National Geographic Society

Tuesdays at Noon
All “Tuesdays at Noon” screenings are FREE; No tickets are required. Audiences will enjoy productions from National Geographic Television, the National Geographic Channel, All Road Film Project, and independent filmmakers. All screenings held in Grosvenor Auditorium.

Feb 9
The Doll (2008, 20 min): A young barber faces the temptation of avenging his father in Dante James’ powerful short film.
Louisville (2005, 18 min): Fathers, sons, and grandsons click and clash in this short film featuring Andre Braugher. Introduced by actor and filmmaker Clayton Lebouef.

Feb 16
Paddle to Seattle (2009, 86 min): Two adventurers paddle handmade kayaks along the Inside Passage in this award-winning Documentary by Josh Thomas and J.J. Kelley. Introduced by J.J. Kelley.

Feb 23
Explorer Journal: Maneaters of Malawi (2000, 25 min): Reptile expert Brady Barr tries to resolve a deadly conflict between crocodiles and humans.
Out There: Crocodile Wild (1999, 25 min): Brady Barr heads to Costa Rica to uncover the truth behind a crocodile controversy.

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour (Single night $20 / 5 night series $90)
Feb 2 – 6, all shows 7pm

(NOTE: There are no tickets available for the giveaway.)

The Banff Mountain Film Festival is one of the most important events on the annual film festival circuit, offering the best films on mountain sports and cultures. Now in its 34th year, the Banff Mountain Film Festival is presented in part by National Geographic.

Film schedule can be found on NG’s website.

Chinese New Year Festival (No tickets required)
Feb 6, 11am – 3pm

Ring in the year of the tiger with food provided by P.F. Chang’s China Bistro (while supplies last), film screenings, activities for kids, a table tennis tournament, raffles, live performances including martial arts demonstrations, and more.

The Choir ($15)
Feb 8, 7:30pm

Michael Davie, an Emmy® Award-winning young filmmaker and former correspondent for National Geographic Explorer, returns to National Geographic with a powerful new documentary. The Choir (Australia/2007/88 min) tells the story of a group of inmates in one of South Africa’s toughest prisons who discover in music a way to build a makeshift family, train for a national choir competition, and grow beyond their circumstances. Don’t miss this moving true story, followed by a discussion with the filmmaker.

Need, Greed, and a Sustainable Future ($18)
Feb 9, 7:30pm

Would the world be a better place if human societies curbed their desires for material goods? In his provocative new book, Treasures of the Earth: Need, Greed, and a Sustainable Future, scholar and environmental visionary Saleem H. Ali suggests that the answer is not so simple. He proposes a new environmental paradigm that accepts our need to consume resources, while urging conservation as well.

John Geiger; photo courtesy of the National Geographic Society

The Third Man Factor ($18)
Feb 10, 7:30pm

The first event in the Quest for Adventure Series (all 3 events, $45), The Third Man Factor (by John Geiger), deals with a mysterious phenomenon which has been noted by survivors of traumatic events: the sense of the close presence of a guardian when “in fact” there is nobody there. Based on physiological, psychological, and historical research, Geiger’s book offers the latest discoveries in neurology as well as compelling human stories of survival.

The Chimps of Goualougo ($18)
Feb 11, 7:30pm

For several years, National Geographic research grantees David Morgan and Crickette Sanz have lived in the Goualougo Triangle, a protected area in the Republic of the Congo that is home to a population of chimpanzees who have become unusually habituated to humans. As described in the February 2010 National Geographic, Morgan and Sanz have exploited the chimps’ comfort around humans to make important and fascinating discoveries about how chimps pass on the skills of toolmaking and use.

Inside the Battle to Save the Earth’s Climate ($18)
Feb 16, 7:30 pm

Stephen H. Schneider, a co-recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize (with Al Gore) in 2007, offers a riveting, behind-the-scenes account of the political battles over climate change in his new National Geographic book. Find out how special interests were able to exploit scientific uncertainties to block measures against climate change, and hear why this visionary thinks it is not too late to take action.

Among Polygamists; photo courtesy of the National Geographic Society

Among the Polygamists ($18)
Feb 17, 7:30pm

First event of the Masters of Photography series (full 4-part series, $60) this program features the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), a group that broke with the Mormons to continue practicing plural marriage, and has thrived outside of the public spotlight until recently. For the Feb. 2010 National Geographic, photographer Stephanie Sinclair spent time in their community to produce an amazingly insightful portrait of this defiant group of believers.

Terra Cotta Warriors Film Festival ($10 each film)
Feb 20, Noon, 2:15, and 4pm
(All three movies, $24)

Enjoy an afternoon of great Chinese kung fu film at this showcase. Each film will be introduced by Craig D. Reed, a respected authority on martial arts films, who selected these pop culture classics reflecting the life of China’s first emperor.

NOON – Hero (2002 / 107 min / Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles): Jet Li plays a mysterious,nameless hero who defends the Emperor Qin from a team of assassins.

2:15pm – Lao Tou Ho (1979 / 97 min / Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles): In one of the best kung fu films of the 1970s, an injured prince teaches kung fu to a vagabond who must now protect the prince from assassins.

4pm – Legendary Weapons of China (1982 / 100 min / Mandarin Chinese with English subtitles): During the Boxer Rebellion, ruthless assassins hunt down a rogue clan member who views the Boxers as detrimental to the spirit of Chinese martial arts. Starring and directed by the renowned Liu Chia-liang. Dr. Reid calls this the best kung fu film ever.

One Cubic Foot; photo courtesy of the National Geographic Society

One Cubic Foot ($18)
Feb 24, 7:30pm

For the second part of the Masters of Photography series, join photographer David Liittschwager as he discusses his project for the February 2010 National Geographic, where he placed a one cubic foot metal frame in different environments and photographed its contents. He captured images of more than 1,000 individual organisms. Witness his unique style of portraiture through the amazing natural diversity he captured in a single cubic foot of biosphere.

Global Glimpses ($8 for each film; $35 for all five)
Feb 26-28, time TBA

(NOTE: Tickets not available for giveaway.)

For the third year you’ll have the opportunity to view in one weekend the five films nominated for the 2009 Academy Award for Best Foreign Film. The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences and the National Geographic All Roads Film Project will present the films one week before the Academy Awards ceremony. A reception will take place before or after each screening. Nominees will be announced February 2. Check nglive.org/dc for a complete list of films and the final schedule.

All programs (unless otherwise noted) will take place in Grosvenor Auditorium at 1600 M Street, NW. Tickets may be purchased online at www.nglive.org, via telephone at (202) 857-7700, or in person at the National Geographic ticket office between 9am and 5pm. Free parking is available in the National Geographic underground garage for all programs that begin after 6pm.

Robert Parsons as Abraham Lincoln, Rick Foucheux as Stephen Douglas and Sarah Zimmerman as Adele Douglas in the Ford’s Theatre Society production of Norman Corwin’s The Rivalry, directed by Mark Ramont. Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

Ford’s Theatre Society and the National Park Service celebrates Abraham Lincoln’s birthday with special February programming. On February 5th, 12th, and 19th, Washington-area youth will present a selection of Lincoln’s greatest speeches as part of the Target Oratory Festival. On February 12th at 8:45 a.m., National Park Service Park Rangers will commemorate President Lincoln’s birthday with a Wreath-laying Ceremony on the historic steps of Ford’s Theatre. On February 13th, 15th, and 20th, visitors are invited to explore the many legends surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s life in Tales of the Lincoln with storyteller Jon Spelman.

Visitors can tour the recently renovated Ford’s Theatre Museum and experience an interpretive program about the events that led up to and include the assassination of President Lincoln. Visitors can also visit the Petersen House (the “House Where Lincoln Died”), dependent upon schedule. Through February 14th, check out a performance of “The Rivalry,” which explores the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates. And to further enhance the visitor experience, park rangers and volunteers will be dressed in Civil War-era period clothing throughout the month of February.

Rick Foucheux as Stephen Douglas and Sarah Zimmerman as Adele Douglas in the Ford’s Theatre Society production of Norman Corwin’s The Rivalry, directed by Mark Ramont. Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

Ford’s Theatre will also will hold a one-day sale for 20% off tickets to performances of “Little Shop of Horrors” (March 12-May 22), and half-off tickets to its popular History on Foot walking tour “A Free Black Woman: Elizabeth Keckly” (tours begin Saturday, April 3). Tickets must be purchased in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office on Monday, February 15th. (For more information on “Little Shop of Horrors” or History on Foot walking tours, visit fords.org.)

The original overcoat worn by Abraham Lincoln the night he was assassinated will be reinstalled in its Ford’s Theatre display case on February 12th. The coat recently underwent conservation by a textile conservator. The coat will be displayed through the end of June.

‘DSC_3403′
courtesy of ‘Ghost_Bear’

Tickets to the Target Oratory Festival

Tickets are free and required for all visitors ages two and older. Tickets to the Target Oratory Festival will be available beginning at 8:30 a.m. on February 5th, 12th, and 19th at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office.

Tickets to Tales of the Lincoln

Tickets are free and required for all visitors ages two and older. Tickets for Tales of the Lincoln may be reserved in advance in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office or via Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or ticketmaster.com. There is a $1.50 convenience fee for reserving in advance. Tickets purchased through Ticketmaster will also be subject to Ticketmaster fees. The Ford’s Theatre convenience fee will be waived for the program taking place on President’s Day, February 15th.

Tickets to “The Rivalry”

Tickets to “The Rivalry” range from $10 to $53. They may be purchased in person at the Ford’s Theatre Box Office or via Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or ticketmaster.com. This production is appropriate for ages 12 and up.

Tickets to Ranger Programs

Tickets are free and required for all visitors ages two and older. A visit to the Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site may include visiting the redesigned museum, experiencing an interpretive park ranger program, and visiting the Petersen House. The Ford’s Theatre Box Office opens at 8:30 a.m. for distribution of same-day tickets. Advance reservations may be made via Ticketmaster at (202) 397-SEAT or at Ticketmaster.com. The Ford’s Theatre convenience fee will be waived for Programming on President’s Day, February 15th, though Ticketmaster fees still apply.

Settling into one’s seat last night at the Verizon Center, one would wonder what roller coaster the Washington Capitals had planned next? Visiting the seven-game-streaking Caps were the Anaheim Ducks on a six game road trip. The Caps, fresh off a 7-2 blowout of the New York Islanders on Tuesday where seemingly everyone grabbed a point except captain Alex Ovechkin, were looking to lengthen their 19 point lead in the Southeast Conference and remain atop the East as the NHL drove towards the Olympic break.

Ovie had to have felt left out of the fun on Long Island and let it show early by burying the puck only 36 seconds into the game. A solid twelve minute run through the first period saw the Caps dominating in the Duck’s zone, racking up a 13-3 shots on goal advantage before Anaheim’s offense settled down. The Caps ended the period with a season-high matching 19 shots on goal, peppering Jean-Sebastien Giguere in spurts during his first game back in over two weeks.

The game settled down in the second; both Giguere and Michal Neuvirth had some terrific saves as both teams hammered into the zones. Dan Sexton managed to finally get one past Neuvirth and it looked as if the game would settle into a classic low-scoring goalie duel. But everything flipped in the span of less than three minutes as the third period unfolded.

Shaone Morrisonn’s shot early in the third deflected off Steve Eminger’s skate and slipped behind Giguere. As the Caps started announcing Morrisonn’s first goal of the season, Mike Knuble scored on the next shot – and when the announcer restarted the goal announcement, Alexander Semin buried one behind Giguere on a beautiful breakaway. And just like that, the Caps led 4-1. Considering the fact that the Caps are now averaging 3.83 goals a game – more than a half-goal better than any other team in the league at the moment – the sudden onslaught wasn’t entirely unexpected. It was just a matter of when, not how.

Semin’s second goal of the night during a 5 on 3 power play seemed almost anticlimactic in comparison. But it does speak volumes about the powerhouse offense the Caps have at their command. The 49 shots taken last night is a season high and the team is only two wins away from the franchise record 10-game winning streak, set back in the 1983-84 season. And with the torrent of goals erupting from nearly every player on the team – four of them with 50 or more points on the season – the Caps are on pace to become the NHL’s highest scoring team since the 1995-96 Penguins.

“The guys like what they’re doing, and they like winning,” said coach Bruce Boudreau. “We talked about it in the dressing room in between periods; we’re going to go after them. We’ve got a good thing going. Let’s just take it right to ‘em and see where it leads.”

Game summary, courtesy of the Washington Capitals.

While today may bring pleasant thoughts of spring, later this week looks like a slide back into winter. So enjoy it while you can (even with the rain) and when you come back, check out some snapshots of the weekend.

‘rising’
courtesy of ‘philliefan99′

‘24/365′
courtesy of ‘brianmka’

‘National Zoo Lion’
courtesy of ‘Rukasu1′

‘Architecture is space structured to serve man……..’
courtesy of ‘LaTur’

‘Jefferson Memorial – 1′
courtesy of ‘Joshua MacDonald Photography’

“Certain death lay ahead if the least hint of my intended desertion got about.”—Igor Gouzenko

In September 1945, a cipher clerk named Igor Gouzenko walked out of the Soviet Embassy in Ottawa, Canada with secret papers and a plan. For Western intelligence, Gouzenko’s defection, and the layered information he shared, ushered in a new era of cooperation against a common foe. Tonight, join Amy Knight, author of How the Cold War Began: The Gouzenko Affair and the Hunt for Soviet Spies, to hear her ground-breaking findings. She was the first to explore recently de-classified records of the Gouzenko case in Canada, Britain, and the United States.

Ms. Knight is a well-known specialist on Soviet/Russian intelligence; in addition to her discussion, guests will also have a chance to see artifacts on loan from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service related to the case. The event is co-sponsored by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) and the Embassy of Canada in celebration of the 25th anniversary of CSIS and in recognition of the collaborative and enduring security relationship between the United States and Canada.

A brief Q&A with Ms. Knight, after the jump.

Who was Igor Gouzenko, and why did he defect?

Igor Gouzenko was a code clerk for the GRU, Soviet military counterintelligence, in Ottawa, Canada. He defected in September 1945 with a large number of secret documents by turning himself in to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Gouzenko’s defection had a huge impact, contributing to the growing Cold War between the Soviets and the West because he had clear proof that the Soviets had an extensive espionage operation in North America.

Beyond the documents Gouzenko defected with, how did the western intelligence agencies utilize him afterward?

Gouzenko’s training as a cipher clerk as such did not offer any unique technical opportunities to learn more about Soviet espionage, but his broader knowledge about what the Soviets were up to was seen as invaluable to western intelligence. However, his use to the west gradually declined because his knowledge became outdated. He lived with his large family under an alias in a town near Toronto and became very embittered with Canadian authorities, who he thought did not treat him fairly. The Soviets never attempted to go after Gouzenko, as far as I know. Stalin reportedly ordered that Gouzenko be left alone because an act of retribution would make the Soviets look bad.

Defector: Igor Gouzenko and the Start of the Cold War begins tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the International Spy Museum. Tickets are $12.50 and may be purchased online or in person.

Going into last night’s game, the Capitals knew they were going to be tested. This week, the Caps face both Stanley Cup finalists from the last two seasons and Coach Bruce Boudreau knew it was going to be an examination of sorts for the team. Coming off a 5-3 win against the Flyers on Sunday and winning four of their last five, the Caps were looking to impress. (And possibly get Ovechkin his 250th career goal.)

They did, but not in any way you’d think.

While the Capitals did skate out with a 3-2 win over an injury-ridden Detroit team, the Caps weren’t performing at their finest. Detroit controlled most of the game, dominating in the offensive zone and sewing up their defense around Osgood. The Caps started the game extremely weak, with only 3 shots on goal in the first period. The Caps forwards came on in spurts, but couldn’t sustain any consistant pressure against Osgood. Despite some stellar play by Jason Chimera early in the first to give Nicklas Backstrom a couple of shining opportunities to score, the Wings just dictated the pace of the game. Jose Theodore decided to have a good night, however, and kept the Caps even with the Wings through the first two periods, handling several breakaways with skill.

Then came the third period.

Well, to be exact, it was actually around the 15:00 mark in the second. After the television timeout, the Caps suddenly shifted gears and came on strong, hammering into the Wings zone and keeping up some excellent pressure. It paid off with Matt Bradley’s goal at 18:05, tying up the game that was slowly starting to slip from the Caps’ grasp.

While the third wasn’t exactly a showcase period for the Caps – the Wings still kept up their consistent pressure on Theodore – it did highlight the energy and capabilities of the team. After Brian Rafalski scored to put the Wings up by one, the Caps returned the favor with Backstrom’s power play goal at 13:15. Less than a minute later – 46 seconds, actually – Dave Steckel slid one past Osgood and then the Caps held on for the win.

But to say that the Caps dominated this one would be a lie.

“It was like men versus boys,” Boudreau said regarding the Caps dismal first period. “I don’t think we touched the puck and they came out with a vengeance.” Detroit basically shut down the Caps high-powered (and highly talented) offense and only lost on a couple of mistakes in the third. Mistakes that, quite possibly, wouldn’t have happened had the Wings had the services of the injured Jason Williams, Niklas Kronwall, and Johan Franzen. Defense is still a concern for the Caps; several times they were caught out of position and Detroit took advantage of it with the long pass, creating a few breakaway chances that, except for Theodore, would’ve given the Wings the game early. “That’s probably the best I’ve seen [Theodore],” Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau said. “I’m watching him and going, this must have been how he won the Vezina and the Hart in Montreal that year. Without him, it could have very well been 6-0 after the first period.”

But in the end, the Caps were able to use their talent and capitalize, netting two more points in the standings and continuing their powerhouse push through the East. And really, that’s all that matters – until the playoffs.

Next opponent? The Penguins in Pittsburgh on Thursday.

Of course, WMATA and GM John Catoe, Jr.’s resignation announcement continue to dominate most area transportation headlines. Tom already posited some questions that Metro needs to answer in their quest for a new GM (and for the Board to consider); I don’t see a reason to rehash it all. Mainly because, well, I’m just tired of Metro.

So a couple of short-n-sweet transportation notices you should be aware of…

WMATA: For the upcoming President’s Day holiday weekend, Metro plans to close the Rosslyn Metrorail station from 10 p.m., Friday, Feb. 12 to closing, Monday, Feb. 15. (The notification is at the end of the linked press release.) During the closing, Metro will install two new rail switches at the Rosslyn Metrorail station. Metro will operate free shuttle buses between the Court House and Foggy Bottom-GWU Metrorail stations and between the Pentagon and Foggy Bottom-GWU Metrorail stations. Riders should an extra 40 minutes to their travel plans if they need to pass through Rosslyn.

March for Life: This Friday is the 37th Annual March for Life on the Mall. (Map of the route is here.) The rally site is on the Mall at 7th Street NW and progresses along Constitution Avenue up to Capitol Hill and the Supreme Court. The rally starts at noon and usually is over by afternoon rush, but plan accordingly as the cross-streets along the path will be closed.

So you’ve watched 24 and are hankering for some personal spy action, right? Or perhaps you’re in the mood for something a little different during the cold, dreary days of winter. Well, for a limited time, you can be a double agent right here in the “City of Spies.”

The International Spy Museum is running Operation: Snow Pea through the end of February, giving you and your friends the chance to experience the museum and a special operation for the price of one admission. Simply provide the secret password (SNOW PEA) to one of the museum’s operatives or on the online order form and receive admission to the museum PLUS one of the following for only $20.10:

• Be an intelligence officer on an international mission in Operation Spy.
• Thwart a cyberterrorist attack on the nation’s capital! Play Polar Bear Spy in the City.
• Enjoy creative cocktails and clandestine conversation at Spy at Night.

Offer isn’t valid between 2/12 – 2/15 and expires February 28. Get your spy on before the tourists come back…

Despite yesterday’s rain and overall dreariness, it’s still part of a holiday weekend for many. Area photographers were out and about as usual and captured some great scenes for us to enjoy. So whether you’re at work or kickin’ back at home today, take a moment to pause and regard some snapshots of the area, through the eyes of our local talent.

‘future photog’
courtesy of ‘philliefan99′

‘Man Smoking 1′
courtesy of ‘Bogotron’

”
courtesy of ‘erin m’

‘Buffalo Soldiers’
courtesy of ‘Rolenz’

‘Duck Duck’
courtesy of ‘tzk333′

‘14MM (2)’
courtesy of ‘Tony DeFilippo’

Update: This event did receive mention on FOX 5 News (still link-hunting on that) and has a listing on Yelp and on Meetup. Still confirming officially if this is indeed occurring, as it is (obviously) difficult to contact the Embassy at this time.

In the meantime, the Embassy of Haiti and ServeDC are asking for volunteers to man the embassy’s telephone banks. If you’d like to help in that capacity, contact ServeDC at 202.727.7925.

There will be a Survival Kit Drive on Sunday, January 17 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti located at 2311 Massachusetts Avenue, NW. In appreciation of your assistance light refreshments will be available. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact 718-755-0119.  The following items are requested:

Baby formula (dry/powder)
Baby wipes
Baby bottles
Diapers
Baby clothes
Toiletries (shampoo, soap, toothpaste)
Hand sanitizer
Vitamins
First aid kits
Over the counter medicines
Socks
Blankets
Mosquito repellent
Flashlights
Batteries
Candles
Flip flops
T-shirts, pants, lightweight jackets
Non-perishable food that are not in cans (seal-packs of tuna or sardines, for example)

There are dozens more items needed; this is just a starter list. Think flat, lightweight, and easily packable. If you can offer a little of your time, awesome.

The National Geographic Museum will welcome Chinese New Year a week early with a free family festival on Feb. 6, celebrating in conjunction with its popular Terra Cotta Warriors exhibition. The festival, sponsored by PF Chang’s China Bistro, will include free food from the restaurant (while supplies last), film screenings, kids’ activities, table tennis, raffles, live performances (including martial arts demonstrations), and more! Guests will also have the opportunity to win free same-day tickets for the exhibition.

Raffles will be held every half hour during the festival beginning at 11:30 a.m. for the chance to win tickets for the 3 p.m. viewing that day.

Additional tickets will be distributed by P.F. Chang’s China Bistro via Facebook and Twitter.

And coming February 20? A kung-fu film festival, featuring Hero, Lao Tou Ho, and Legendary Weapons of China.

Update 2:00 p.m.: We put in a call to our WMATA contact, Ron Holzer, who indeed confirmed that Catoe has tendered his resignation to WMATA’s Board. Apparently, the announcement took everyone by surprise, as no one at WMATA had in inkling this was coming. Needless to say, neither did any of the area bloggers last night. Catoe played his stepping-down pretty close to the vest.

This news alert came as a COMPLETE SHOCK to me. Lena Sun at WaPo has broken the story that WMATA GM John Catoe, Jr. will be resigning as General Manager of the agency, effective April 2, 2010.

What’s completely shocking about this is that it comes on the heels of what, by many blog accounts today, was a very successful face-to-face meeting with area bloggers last night. Our own Tom Bridge covered the meeting in depth and even came away with some healthy respect for the man. (As did I, after reading several accounts of it.)

Catoe announced his intentions to resign after a special board meeting this afternoon. He said he realized that the tragedies at Metro in the last year had created “an unhealthy distraction” and that good leaders should know when it is time for a leadership change.

More as details unfold.

Volunteers are being sought for the 2010 National Cherry Blossom Fesitval. Individuals, local business community service programs, and community service groups are encouraged to participate. Those who volunteer their time will assist in all aspects of the Festival, which runs from Saturday, March 27 through Sunday, April 11.

To see what specific opportunities are available, you can download an application from the Festival website or call 202.661.7595.