Courtesy of Fingerprint DC

Next month one of DC’s most anticipated events will hit Georgetown for an evening of food, fashion, and fun.  The District Sample Sale Foundation will hold its eighth installment of the District Sample Sale on Thursday September 16th from 5:30-9:30pm.

So I’m pretty much loving the sound of this…over 20 of the city’s designer clothing and shoe boutiques bring their end-of-the-season stock just for you and for up to 90% off!  You can even catch some current-season items for discounted prices.  You and your girlfriends can also enjoy cocktails, hors d’ouevres, and the Relaxation Station, a new addition that will provide the much-needed break that shopping till’ you drop can require.

Founded by Real Housewife of DC Mary Schmidt Amons, Shannon Haley, Liberty Jones, Barbara Martin and Jayne Sandman, the event has raised thousands of dollars for local charities.  This fall, the GW Mammovan is the chosen benificiary.  The Mammovan is a mobile digital mammogram screening service that has served over 19,000 local women to date (and detected 71 cases of breast cancer).

Tickets are going quick, so make sure you get yours today at www.districtsamplesale.com.  General admission is $40, VIP tickets are $100, Benefactress sponsor tickets are $250, and Corporate Benefactress tickets are $600.  If you happen to be VIP or a Benefactress guest (for only up to 200 guests), you will receive a paperless goodie bag and an extra hour of private access to get first dibs on all the goodies.  While you’re at the website you can also check out a list of participating stores and sponsors.  Happy shopping!

Next summer the District has a brand-spanking-new library to look forward to at 115 Atlantic St. SW. Mayor Adrian Fenty (D), D.C. Council Chairman Vincent Gray (D), Chief Librarian Ginnie Cooper, and other members of the Ward 8 community broke ground the Washington Highlands Neighborhood Library last week.

Not only will the new library hold up to 80,000 books, CDs, and DVDs, but also conference rooms and 32 computers with free wi-fi for the public. With construction under way for the new facility and President Obama’s speech to the National Urban League today, it seems like education is in the air. I’m looking forward to Washington Highlands and all that it will have to offer!

So get your library cards ready, and in the meantime, an interim library is located at 4037 South Capitol St. SW.

We know her as the queen of hip-hop soul, but could we also know her as a Howard University student soon?  You heard me right…Mary J. Blige announced Friday that she has been accepted to the Mecca, ABC7 reported.  After her performance on Good Morning America, she explained that she was all set to be a member of the class of 2014.

However, Howard University has yet to confirm any of these details.  In a statement from the school, the spokesperson said, “we encourage Ms. Blige to continue her studies and welcome her consideration of Howard University in the future. We are happy to work with Ms. Blige on completing the formal process for admission.”

Blige did recently attain her GED, so perhaps higher education could be in her near future.  I’m all for it, whether it’s Howard or not, a few textbooks never hurt anyone (even though I have to be somewhat partial to Howard, as it’s my alma mater).  Whatever you decide Mary, we support you, and of course we’ll keep listening!

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I don’t know about you, but I’m always in the mood for free stuff these days.  That being said, this weekend, good ole’ Dunkin’ Donuts will be on hand at Safeway’s National Capital Barbecue Battle XVIII.  Located on Pennsylvania between 9th and 14th Street, there will be a giant RV filled with free coffee samples and other goodies for you to enjoy.

The District is just one stop on the Dunkin’ Turbo Big Taste Tour, which is introducing the public to the new Dunkin’ Turbo packaged coffee.  So if you’re in the area and have a craving for some coffee, make sure you stop by!  Saturday the RV will be open from 11am-9pm, and on Sunday from 11am-7:30pm.  You can check out all of the tour stops at the website.

For those of us on a budget, it’s always great to find a deal on dinner, or any other meal for that matter.  That being said, I have a few spots that I think you’ll thank me later for…

Buddha Bar. Did you know you can enjoy lunch Buddha Bar-style for under 20 bucks?  That’s right!  Seven days a week this newly-opened restaurant offers bento boxes for $19.  The boxes include miso soup, edamame, Buddha Bar, chicken salad, Vietnamese spring rolls, red curry shrimp with steamed rice, and your choice of mango soup or chocolate & sesame bars for dessert.  Works for me!

Potenza. If you’re looking for something different, Potenza has you covered.  On Thursdays and Fridays, between 11:20 am and 5 pm, you can grab a snack for just $5!  If you drop by Potenza’s patio at 15th and H Street NW, you can have your choice of three house-made sausages.  Grilled and served with peppers and onions, you just decide between Italian sweet, spicy, or fennel, and enjoy.  If you’re looking for a little bit more, they also have a three-course menu you might enjoy on your lunch break.  You can choose between items like salad, sandwiches, and even a take-away cookie bag.  Check out the full menu here.

CommonWealth Gastropub & Hank’s Oyster Bar. Last but not least, Jamie Leeds has a special treat for you and the kids with Family Nights at DC’s CommonWealth Gastropub and Hank’s Oyster Bar in Alexandria.  On Tuesdays and Saturdays between 5 and 7 pm at Commonwealth (and Tuesdays at Hank’s Oyster Bar), kids 10 and under can eat free when you chow down on one of the “grown-up” meals.  Whether it’s the Mac n’ Cheese at Hank’s or the Fish n’ Chips at CommonWealth, the kiddies will definitely eat great.  For the parents, you might like something like the BBQ’d Oysters or Lemon Thyme Roast Chicken with mashed potatoes.

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A couple of nights ago, I had the pleasure of attending the kickoff to the 8th Annual Paella Festival at Jaleo in Crystal City, and I must say I was very impressed to say the least.  Between June 7th and 20th, all locations will be celebrating the traditional Spanish dish, so you have plenty of time to get a plate of your own!

Just to give you an idea of all the tastiness you can expect, let me run it down for you.  The featured dishes included Arroz con pluma ibérica y verduras de Alicante (Iberico pork paella with green garlic and seasonal vegetables), Arroz caldoso con cigalas (soupy rice with Norway lobster), Fideos finos tostados con bogavante (vermicelli paella with lobster), Arroz con verduras y setas de temporada (paella of seasonal vegetables and mushrooms), and Caldero de pescados con arroz finito a banda (fish stew with rice).

I didn’t forget the drinks either!  This week the Mazafrano cocktail is being highlighted.  It’s made up of saffron infused vodka, thyme simple syrup, fresh green apple juice and saffron garnish.  Trust me, you definitely want to make your way down to Jaleo pronto!  For more information, you can visit the website.

Looking for your next lunch spot or a deal on a great dinner?  701 Restaurant has you covered with their “Steal of a Deal” lunch and dinner specials.  Monday through Friday between 11:30 am and 3 pm in the restaurant’s Bar 7 and lounge spaces, you can grab lunch for just 15 bucks (tax and gratuity not included).  Whether it’s the Crispy Calamari Salad with shrimp, scallops, capers, and olive vinaigrette, or the 701 Classic Hamburger, I don’t think you can go wrong with this menu.

If you can’t make it on your lunch break, you have the option for dinner too.  Between 5:30pm and closing all week, you can choose not one, but two courses from the lounge tasting menu with two wine pairings, all for $35 (tax and gratuity not included).  You can go for an appetizer or entree, or entree plus dessert.  Menu items like the Seared Scallops with cauliflower puree, pine nuts, and balsamic reduction or the Fried Chicken with creamy grits, collard greens, scallions, and gravy are sure to please.  Whatever you decide, General Manager Chelsea Yancho and staff invites you and your friends to come “steal a deal” very soon. 

701 Restaurant is located at 701 Pennsylvanie Avenue NW.  Call (202) 393-0701 or visit the website for more information.

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If I had to make a guess, I would say that there is a pretty good population of “Sex and the City” fans here in the District, including moi (I’ve always been a little partial to Charlotte myself).  That being said, it is my moral obligation to inform each and every one of you of one more reason to get excited about the film’s highly-anticipated sequel hitting theaters Thursday May 27th.  From May 23-30th, Georgetown retailers, restaurants, and spas will unite in honor of the movie’s release for “Style in the City” week.

What is “Style in the City,” you ask?  Well, only the next best thing next to “Sex and the City 2″!  First, there’s the shopping:  retailers throughout Georgetown will have a special “Style in the City” swag bag for you if you spend $150 or more and mention “Style in the City.”  The bags will have tons of treats you’ll love, including a ticket to see “Sex and the City 2″ at AMC Georgetown!!  Also, If you see the movie at AMC Georgetown and present your stubs to participating merchants, you can get even MORE goodies!

As if the swag bags aren’t enough, Georgetown restaurants will be offering $5 Cosmos all week and brunch specials on both Sundays.  Finally, grab a buddy so that you both can enjoy the “Bring Your Girlfriend” specials.  Spas and salons will offer facials, pedicures, and other spa treatments at a discount for you and your pal all while you sip on a little champagne.  Honestly, I don’t know if it can get much better than this:  shopping, cosmos, the spa, AND “Sex and the City”?!  See you at the movies ladies!

The third annual “Taste of 12″ is sure to have you tasting a little bit of everything on Friday May 21st.  Hosted by the D.C. Lottery, the event allows you to sample food from area restaurants AND contribute to a great cause.  Proceeds will benefit the Capital Area Food Bank, and will go towards the Pollin family’s initiative to give one million meals to the less-fortunate.  For just twelve bucks, you can sample up to six of the participating restaurants, which include but are not limited to: Acadiana, Matchbox Vintage Pizza Bistro, and Rosa Mexicano.  Zaytinya, the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s 2010 RAMMY nominee for “Upscale Casual Restaurant of the Year,” will even be featured.

You might notice that all of these restaurants are located in the same vicinity, which is the common thread that brings them together every year.  The “Taste of 12″ is always held at the Verizon Center, and was originally a celebration of the building’s tenth anniversary.  It also served as a thank you to local restaurants and businesses for their support.  The event was such a success that it evolved into a charitable tradition in our community.

The “Taste of 12″ will be held between 11:30am and 1:30pm on the main concourse of the Verizon Center.  For more information, you can visit the Verizon Center’s website .  Get your tickets today!

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This Sunday is all about Mommies, and if you still don’t have any plans, have no fear.  There are of tons of ways to honor her here in the District and surrounding area, with none other than food of course!  I’ve taken the liberty of highlighting some great spots that are sure to please all of the mothers in your life, so be sure to get your reservations in before they’re gone!

First up is Brunch and Bubbly at Proof.  This year they celebrate for the first time, and guests will receive a complimentary glass of champagne.  Located just a block from the Verizon Center and metro accessible, Proof is not only conveniently located, but a smart choice for Mother’s Day brunch.  Executive Chef Haidar Karoum has prepared an a la carte brunch with such dishes as the Sautéed Wild King Salmon with spring peas, maitake mushrooms and grilled ramps and Crispy Soft Shell Crab with fingerling Potatoes, asparagus, anchovy and remoulade.  If this sounds like your cup of tea, you can contact the restaurant at 202-73-PROOF (202-737-7663) or visit the website at www.proofdc.com.  Brunch will be served between 11am and 3pm.

‘Art and Soul Crab Dinner’
courtesy of ‘needlessspaces’

Art and Soul will give you two-for-one by celebrating Mother’s Day and the beginning of crab season!  For $49.00, guests can enjoy a three-course prix-fixe brunch created by Executive Chef Travis Timberlake.  From Crab Three Ways (fried soft shell crabs, a Maryland crab cake, and crab stuffed relleno with chipotle butter) to Lobster Benedict with asparagus and skillet potatoes, this is perfect for the Mom who loves her seafood.  As a special touch, the restaurant will give all of the mothers a complimentary red rose.  Brunch will be served between 11am and 4pm, and if you’ll be dining with the kiddies, don’t worry, there will also be a children’s menu.  For reservations, call 202-393-7777 or visit www.artandsouldc.com.  Art and Soul is located at 415 New Jersey Ave. NW in The Liaison Capitol Hill hotel.

If you’re looking for a spin on your traditional Mother’s Day brunch, Rasika is an excellent alternative.  This celebrated Indian restaurant is offering a three-course prix fixe brunch by Executive Chef Vikram Sunderam.  Between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm, guests can enjoy dishes like the Chicken Tikka Omelette, Mixed Seafood Grill, or even the Coconut Pancake for dessert!  To reserve your spot, call (202) 637-1222 or you can visit www.rasikarestaurant.com.  Rasika is located at 633 D Street NW.

‘ris 12.4.09 – 2′
courtesy of ‘laura padgett’

Another stop you might want to make is RIS, located at 2275 L Street NW.  Chef and Owner Ris Lacoste has gone the extra mile and extended the three-course prix fixe menu so that you can take advantage of it all day!  To start off the meal, Mom might want to go for something like the Market Spinach Salad with pancetta-smokey blue dressing.  Moving on to the entree, she can look forward to dishes like Grilled Leg of Lamb with garlic spinach and creamy feta potatoes.  For dessert, classics like the Strawberry Shortcake are on the menu.  All of this can be hers for $50.00.  Brunch is served between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, and dinner is offered between 4:30 pm to 8:00pm.  You can contact RIS at (202) 730-2500 or visit www.risDC.com for reservations.

Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert has a little something for everyone at their Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch.  Chef de Cuisine Joe Palma and the staff have prepared an extensive buffet menu that includes specialty salads, a raw bar and caviar station, sushi, and traditional breakfast items.  The brunch will be held between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, and is $75.00 for adults and $40.00 for children 12 & under.  Reservations are a must, so you can call (202)974-5566 or visit www.westendbistrodc.com to secure a table for you and your loved ones.  Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert is located at 1190 22nd St. NW.

Since we’re talking about buffets, we should definitely mention the Mother’s Day Grand Buffet Brunch at Jackson 20.  Mom has plenty of options with this menu of classic brunch staples, whether it’s the roasted country pig carving station or Southern-style home fries.  In addition, Chef Dennis Marron will be serving a delicious spread of desserts, including Jackson 20’s famous bread pudding.  This brunch will run you for $50.00, and $25.00 for children ages 5-12 (children under 5 eat free).  For an extra $20.00, there is even a Bloody Mary and Mimosa Bar!  For reservations, give them a call at (703)842-2790 or go to  www.jackson20.com.  The restaurant is located at 480 King Street in Alexandria.

‘Flowery Cupcakes’
courtesy of ‘LexnGer’

Last, but definitely not least, Cupcakes Actually is there for your mom’s sweet tooth.  If you’re looking for that special something to top off her day, the staff there has you covered.  You can order specialty Mother’s Day cupcakes, or pick up a box of other hand-decorated treats.  Either way, I’m pretty sure she’ll always remember this Mother’s Day.  For more information or to place your order, call (517) 522-8613 or visit  www.cupcakesactually.com.  Cupcakes Actually is located at 11944 Grand Commons Avenue in Fairfax.

There are plenty of places to go and lots of things to do, but whatever you do, make sure Mom knows how much she means to you.  Happy Mother’s Day!

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We all remember growing up on 31 flavors…Baskin-Robbins that is, so why not stop in to one of their locations for some good ice cream and an even better cause?  Tonight from 5-10pm participating stores will celebrate 31 Cent Scoop Night to honor our country’s firefighters.  Not only will you be able to grab some ice cream for just 31 cents, but you can actually make a difference too.

The Baskin-Robbins Community Foundation is donating $100,000 to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF).  The NFFF is an organization dedicated to the memory of fallen American firefighters and the prevention of future deaths of firefighters on the job.  Some locations will even give you the chance to donate to your own local fire charities.  So don’t be afraid to exercise your sweet tooth tonight, it will all be worth it!

photos by Michael DeAngelis

Well, it looks like there will be some very lucky young ladies going to Prom this year, thanks to the efforts of DCPS and everyone who helped contribute to their annual Prom Dress Collection.  Last week after the collection was complete, students had the opportunity to shop in the boutique for gently used dresses and accessories, at no cost to them.  There was even a professional make-up artist on hand to make the day extra-special… what more could a girl ask for?!

The day would not have been possible without several other donors that lent their services.   Target provided gift cards, the Body Shop donated gift bags, Buzz Bakery and Café took care of the cupcakes, and Neiman Marcus was responsible for hangers, shopping bags, and garment bags.  Prom season is looking good already!

In honor of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, tons of area restaurants are serving up specials for their diners.  For example, Firefly will give you a buck off of your bill for each wine cork that you bring in to be recycled.  You can bring up to 22 corks (which represents today’s date), and they will be delivered to Wente Vineyards for a joint recycling program with ReCork.  Chef Danny Bortnick will also be cooking up a five-course meal with ingredients straight from local farmers, all for $50.

Another restaurant that will be celebrating is Poste Moderne Brasserie.  Bev Eggleston of Eco Friendly Foods will provide a 400 POUND PIG to be roasted by Chef Robert Weland and staff.  For just $15, you can have a piece of the hog and your choice of one of mixologist Rico Wisner’s garden punches.  All other “Garden Menu” items will be available for just $4!

Finally, The Grille at Morrison House will be hosting a 100-mile candlelight dinner.  Chef Dennis Marron has prepared a four-course meal, which will include ingredients from local farmers within a 100 mile radius, such as eggs and poultry from Path Valley Farms and fresh fish from the Chesapeake.  All this can be yours for $55, excluding tax and gratuity.  What better way to celebrate than with food?  Enjoy and Happy Earth Day!

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Every year it just seems to kind of sneak up on you, huh?  Well if your taxes are stressing you out more than usual, no worries! BLT restaurants nationwide are offering you 50% off all alcoholic beverages on Tax Day, April 15th.

So if you already know you’ll need a drink, they’ve got you covered all day long.  There’s a BLT Steak conveniently located at 1625 Eye Street NW, and they have a seat at the bar just for you.

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Have no fear, your dessert prayers have been answered.  Dolcezza Artisanal Gelato will be opening a brand-spanking-new location in Dupont Circle, perfect for those hot and humid days ahead.  The gelateria will not only have a gelato bar, but also an exclusive V60 Pour-over Coffee Bar.  Slated to open on April 15th, this location will feature all of the signature flavors you love like Pistachio Siciliano & Strawberry Tarragon. 

If that’s still not enough to reel you in, the gelateria (gotta love that word) will be furnished with antiques directly from Argentina.  In addition, artwork by local artists will hang throughout the space.  Every month the artwork will rotate out for other pieces, and you’ll even be able to purchase them. 

Shortly after the opening on the 15th, there will be a Grand Opening Party open to the public on Sunday April 25th from 12 noon-6pm.  Complete with live bluegrass music, a whole-smoked hog and of course, FREE gelato, you might want to mark this one on your calendar.  The new location in Dupont Circle is located at 1704 Connecticut Ave. NW.  For more information on Dolcezza or store locations you can visit their website.

Courtesy of American Dance Institute

If you’re like me, then you’re all for every little girl believing that she too, can be a ballerina someday.  That being said, you’ll be even more excited about the American Dance Institute’s FREE Angelina Ballerina Open House on Sunday April 25th from 12 noon to 2pm. 

The American Dance Institute (ADI) will be hosting the event at its Rockville, MD location in honor of National Dance Week and the District’s celebration of dance, Dance is the Answer.  There will even be an extra-special celebrity cameo from none other than Angelina Ballerina herself, the official spokescharacter for National Dance Week.

Children ages two and older can come out (accompanied by an adult of course) to be a part of an interactive story dance as well as watch a performance from the ADI Chamber Ballet.  There will also be arts and crafts, a prize giveaway, and a ballet “Petting Zoo” where the kiddies can play dress-up in various costumes and dancewear.  For more information, you can call (301)984-3003 or visit their website.

As if shopping in Georgetown isn’t already one of your favorite pasttimes, Morton’s Steakhouse and Georgetown BID are giving you one more reason to shop till’ you drop.  This week select retailers will be distributing invitations to Morton’s Shopper Appreciation Event on April 10th.

So, it’s pretty simple.  This is how it works:  you shop at one of the stores, and in return get an invitation to the event.  On Saturday afternoon betwen 2-5pm you can stroll on over to Morton’s patio where you will enjoy FREE miniature prime cheeseburgers and an extra-special cocktail menu in honor of spring and all the shopping goodness that comes along with it.

Some of the stores participating include Betsey Johnson, CUSP, and Urban Chic just to name a few.  For a complete list, you can go to www.mortons.com/georgetown and click on “Special Events.”

With everything from iced Kermit Cookies for $2.25 each to a Frogger Pie made with an Oreo crust and crème de menthe cream for $2.95 per slice, these are just too cute to pass up.  Even better, if you pick up half a dozen iced Kermit Cookies or more, you can enter to win a brand new DVD of “The Princess and the Frog!”   You’ll definitely score points with the kiddies with that one, so make sure you stop in soon!

For more information, call 703-600-2899 (703-600-BUZZ).

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So when I was younger, it was all about getting dressed up for church, painting eggs, Easter dinner, and this magical fuzzy bunny, which quite frankly, can be a tad-bit scary for little kids.  Now that I’m a little older, it’s a little less Easter bunny, but the dinner part never really gets old. If you’re out and about for Easter this year, and looking for brunch or dinner, there are tons of restaurants that are offering specials for you and your loved ones.

First up is Redwood of Bethesda.  From 10:30 am to 3:30 pm, there will be a traditional menu with everything from Flaked Salt Cod Salad with leeks, baby frisee, fingerling potatoes and beet vinaigrette to Miguel’s Virginia Ham with sweet potato puree, wilted Brussels sprout leaves and red eye gravy.  The menu is a la carte, and dishes will range between $9 and $22.  To top it off, for 15 bucks, you can enjoy bottomless mimosas (and you just can’t go wrong with bottomless mimosas).  Get your reservations in today!

‘Bistrot Lepic’
courtesy of ‘Daquella manera’

Second in line is Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar.  If the inner French in you is having a craving, then you can certainly stop by for Chef de Cuisine Simon Ndjiki-Nya’s four-course meal.  The dinner includes popular dishes such as Sautéed Duck Foie Gras with a fresh pineapple reduction, Artichoke and Goat Cheese Terrine with arugula salad, and Lamb Filet Stuffed with Wild Mushrooms.  All this and more can be yours for $45.  Stop by between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm or between 5:30 pm and 9:30 pm.  Bistrot Lepic & Wine Bar is conveniently located on Wisconsin Avenue NW.

For a nice relaxing meal, you might want to make your way down to 701, located on Pennsylvania Ave. NW.  Not only will there be live jazz, but also a beautiful backdrop of the Navy Memorial Fountain against which you and your family can enjoy the three-course prix fixe brunch.  Whether it’s the Lobster Bisque, French Toast with house-made pork sausage, or the Fried Chicken & Waffles, there is a little bit of something for everybody on this menu…even dessert!  If you still have room for it, the Chocolate Bete Noir with rasberry-beet reduction and fresh currants will definitely be the perfect topping for this feast.  Brunch is served from 11 am to 4 pm, but you can also catch the a la carte Sunday dinner menu from 5 pm to 9:30 pm.

Finally, Ardeo of Cleveland Park is another place to be if you’re looking for some quality Easter brunch.  Executive Chef Alex McWilliams and the staff invite you to enjoy three courses of deliciousness from 11 am to 2:30 pm for $45, complete with unlimited Champagne.  The starting lineup includes such dishes as Just Shucked Oysters with pickled shallot, cucumber, and black peppercorn sorbet.  When it’s time for the entree, you might be in the mood for the Maple Cured Pork Loin or even better, the Easter Quiche with Roasted Peppers, asparagus, and pine nuts.  Whatever option you go for, you won’t be disappointed.  Ardeo is located on Connecticut Ave. NW.

Happy Easter and bon appetit!

Courtesy of Mehgan Murphy, Smithsonian’s National Zoo

What has eight arms, no spine, and a webcam?  The National Zoo’s brand-spanking-new giant Pacific octopus, that’s what.  There’s just one thing it’s missing… a name!  But have no fear, that’s where you come in.

The National Zoo has narrowed it down to four choices for names, which are the following:  Olympus, Ceph, Octavius, and Vancouver.  Each name has its own description and meaning relevant to our eight-armed friend, and you have the opportunity to vote for your favorite online.  You can vote until April 7th at noon, and the winner will be announced on the octopus cam at 2pm.

Something else to take under consideration is gender.  Unfortunately, we don’t know for sure whether it is male or female, and it will have to mature more before that can be confirmed.  Personally, I’m a little partial to Vancouver just because I think it could go either way, but we’ll have to tune in April 7th for the fate of the anonymous octopus.  Get those votes in!