17 February 2006

DC has formed it's own Olympic Committee and is petitioning the International Olympic Committee to recognize it. They say the IOC approved teams for the other territories of the United States, like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, so why not DC? The petition is HERE. The group held its kickoff event at Adams Mill bar. DC's shadow senator Paul Strauss (check out his website -- it's a hoot) gave a speech and the group toasted right at the point when the team from "Denmark" gave way to the team from "Estonia" -- alphabetically, the point where the "District of Columbia" should be marching. From the organizers: "If the District is going to be lumped in with the other red-headed stepchildren of American representative democracy, we should at least be able to compete with our own Olympic teams like other territories. The first team we are organizing is curling, but we are looking for athletes for other sports for both the winter and summer games. So, if you live in the District and want to compete (or be a coach) sign up today!" Right on!