Spring Picnic 2008 - May 18th

[MBK]

I'm a probably, depending on transportation ... no idea what I'll bring.

[MelGold]

I'm a definite maybe - still working out big life changes in May. Will be bringing something in a bottle to consume in a cup as well as a food item of some sort (not pork seeing as that category is well covered).

[mame11]

It looks like I'll be in town so I will be able to attend. I am not sure what I will bring BUT I will gladly shuttle folk from DC to the site. PM me if you would like a ride.

Looking forward to seeing everybody and eating yummy yummy food. Must remember to have cholesterol checked before the event, not after.

[LorettaEChi]

I plan to attend. Probably will bring a Chinese noodle dish. I am bringing a girl friend as Mushman (Ray LaSala) will be out of town that weekend.

I will be very happy to help either before or during the picnic. Just let me know.

Loretta Chi

[tripewriter]

I will reprise my Cincinnati-style turkey chili, with fixin's.

Also, we will bring some DRINKING WATER.

[Ilaine]

Unless the day is moved I am coming +3, bringing a New Braufels offset smoker and a piglet. We've never smoked pig before, but we have smoked turkey, so will take it from there.

[legant]

The tally so far: 50

("maybe" are italicized)

agm (+1)

Al Dente

booklubingbabe + BLBaby

brettashley01

cucas87

DanielK (+3)

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

ferment everything

goldernticket

Heather (+3)

Ilaine (+3)

jparrott

lackadaisi (+1)

legant (+5)

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1)

MBK

MelGold

NCPinDC

Nutty Buddy

ol_ironstomach

Pat

Scott Johnston

squidsdc

StephenB

synaesthesia

thistle (+3)

Tweaked

Walrus + Tripewriter

xcanuck (+1)

PM or post any changes/corrections and I'll update.

Edited May 1, 2008 by legant

[Scott Johnston]

DRY GOODS

I have 50+ plates, tons of red costco cups, a couple of rolls of papertowels, trash bags, large handfuls of starbucks napkins, some plasticwear.

WE NEED

More plasticwear, more trash bags, table cloths, bowls, small plates, serving utentials, plastic wrap and plastic bags for leftovers. Salt and pepper.

[edenman]

WE NEED

More plasticwear

I agree. More plasticwear.

[DameEdna]

I agree. More plasticwear.

Is it fancy dress? No one told me it was fancy dress.

[Scott Johnston]

PlasticWARE PlasticWARE PlasticWARE

Besides she is not wearing anything under her plasticwear

Craig, dresses are optional.

[thistle]

I'm actually +3 (don't want to throw the count off), I will arrive early (when's a good time?) w/ my son, to help w/ setup. I'll be bringing backup paper towels, garbage bags, 5 tablecloths, cooler w/ beer & childrens beverages, food of some sort (still undetermined).

What else would be good?-popup canopy, folding tables? I do have a CampChef Big Gas Grill, but I have to confess I haven't used it yet-if anyone wants to be a guinea pig, I'll bring it along, it's quite portable...Linda

[Heather]

I'm bringing Scott and the kids (+3), and can kick in about 500 plastic forks.

[tripewriter]

Salt and pepper.

But I can't imagine anyone's dishes will be underseasoned! Say it isn't so!

I will gladly bring a box of kosher salt. Lord knows I can always use more kitchen cabinet space.

[goldenticket]

Here's a quick grouping of what people have said they are bringing. Looks like we need appetizers, veggie dishes, desserts, and sides. If I missed something or you've changed your mind, PM me and I'll update the list. If you haven't been to a DR.com event before, the picnic is a great way to meet a lot of people in one place - as well as to enjoy a lot of great food!

Appetizers, snacks, finger food

Al Dente – Wings(?)

Scott Johnston – deviled eggs

StephenB – deviled eggs

Sides/Salads

cucas87 – Mojito Salad, Thai Beef Salad

Gubeen - Gravlax

Heather (+3) – Pickles, cornbread, lemonade

legant (+5) – baked beans

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1) – Chinese noodle dish

Pat (+1) - potato salad, bread

synaesthesia- japchae

Main course

1. meat/fish

agm + NotQuickDraw – Pork

Ilaine (+3) – piglet

jparrott – ham(?)

Walrus + Tripewriter – Cincinnati turkey chili

xcanuck (+1) – homemade brisket and sausage

2. vegetarian/vegan

brettashley01 – Veggie dish

Scott Johnston – Vegan veggie torte

Desserts/sweets

Beverages

Water – Tripewriter

Non-Alcoholic- Thistle, DanielK, Jparrott, Legant, Heather

Wine/Beer – Jparrott, fermenteverything, thistle, ScottJohnston

Misc.

Attending (maybes are italicized) but haven't decided what to bring

Antonio Burrell (+3)

bookluvingbabe + BLBaby

DanielK (+3) -

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

ferment everything

goldenticket

lackadaisi + Jlock (+4)

MBK

MelGold

NCPinDC

Nutty Buddy + JPW + Peanut

ol_ironstomach

squidsdc

thistle (+4)

Tweaked

[Antonio Burrell]

I'll be attending +3, Will bring either Fried Chicken and Mac and Cheese and maybe a cobbler or some pate or some pulled pork or some collard greens or or or or somesing. Having never attended an event, I look forward to meeting those of you who will be there.

[jparrott]

For the nth picnic in a row, Cellar Cull Share is on. Please bring one or more bottles of fascinating, intriguing, exciting, or off-the-wall juice. We'll have a table set up. Once the wine is on the table, anyone with a corkscrew and a cup can open it. Mr. JPW and I will be performing our usual husbandry, mainly involving sniffing suspect bottles and killing crabgrass with corked bottles.

Some plaintive entreaties guidelines:

1. This is in addition to other contributions to the picnic. Like, say, water. Water. WATER. WATER.

2. If you bring the chili wine or some other tourist-trappy silliness, try to also bring something with a higher probability of success.

3. Have fun with this. Introduce people to wines you know. Ask questions about wines you don't. And carefully conceal your wines that are made by boiling beer or other alcoholic goodness and taking the vapor.

[mikeskaj]

It sounds like this is starting to shape up as a great event. I'd love to come but unfortunately that is the day I'll be arriving in Iraq for 6 months of fun in the sun and sand. Next time we decide to invade a country I vote that it be one where you can eat pork and drink wine.

[Pat]

I'll jump off the fence and say I'll be coming +1. Still subject to change, but I think I'll be able to do it.

I can bring potato salad and bread. We've also got paper plates we can bring (about 50) and plastic spoons and knives (about 25 each).

[StephenB]

It sounds like this is starting to shape up as a great event. I'd love to come but unfortunately that is the day I'll be arriving in Iraq for 6 months of fun in the sun and sand. Next time we decide to invade a country I vote that it be one where you can eat pork and drink wine.

It sounds like you'll be back just in time for the Fall event. No leftover MRE's, please. And bear in mind both definitions of "duck."

[mame11]

It sounds like this is starting to shape up as a great event. I'd love to come but unfortunately that is the day I'll be arriving in Iraq for 6 months of fun in the sun and sand. Next time we decide to invade a country I vote that it be one where you can eat pork and drink wine.

Italy?

on a serious note, thanks for your service.

[Soup]

I would like to attend. I will be bringing jelly fish salad in mustard sauce and my family. That is at total of 2 adults (me & wife) and 2 kids.

We can bring forks, plates and cups if you still need them. So let me know if I need to bring them.

Soup

[brettashley01]

I think I'll be whipping up a fritatta or two (I don't know how I could possibly make one big fritatta for everyone given my cookware). Will thus be veggie- not vegan. And probably a "trite" combo of ingredients- but I really love roasted peppers with goat cheese and herbes de provence!

ETA: I know myself and others with allergies would really appreciate if you note what oils you used in your cooking, since "vegetable" oil can turn out to be olive, canola, soybean or a combo- or if you used shortening, margarine, mayonnaise; or if you used any nuts, or any the top allergens that others have noted before. Otherwise I hope you won't mind me asking you about every ingredient in your dish Thank you again- and I truly appreciate your consideration!

[goldenticket]

Appetizers, snacks, finger food

Al Dente – Wings(?)

Scott Johnston – deviled eggs

StephenB – deviled eggs

Sides/Salads

cucas87 – Mojito Salad, Thai Beef Salad

Gubeen - Gravlax

Heather (+3) – Pickles, cornbread, lemonade

legant (+5) – baked beans

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1) – Chinese noodle dish

Pat (+1) - potato salad, bread

synaesthesia- japchae

Soup (+3) - jellyfish salad in mustard sauce

thistle (+4) - rice and/or bean salad

Main course

1. meat/fish

agm + NotQuickDraw – Pork

Bbq4me - Taco Bar

Ilaine (+3) – piglet

jparrott – ham(?)

Walrus + Tripewriter – Cincinnati turkey chili

xcanuck (+1) – homemade brisket and sausage

2. vegetarian/vegan

brettashley01 – Vegetarian frittata

Scott Johnston – Vegan veggie torte

Desserts/sweets

NCPinDC - fruit, brownies, maybe cupcakes

Beverages

Water – Tripewriter

Non-Alcoholic- Thistle, DanielK, Jparrott, Legant, Heather

Wine/Beer – Jparrott, fermenteverything, thistle, ScottJohnston

Misc.

Attending (maybes are italicized) but haven't decided what to bring

Antonio Burrell (+3)

bookluvingbabe + BLBaby

DanielK (+3) -

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

ferment everything

goldenticket

holdtheline (+1)

lackadaisi + Jlock (+4)

MBK

MelGold

Nutty Buddy + JPW + Peanut

ol_ironstomach

squidsdc

Tweaked

[thistle]

Woo-hoo, picnic's only 2 weeks away! After attending a Girl Scout Encampment this weekend (I was taking notes), I'll be bringing a big Coleman cooler for water, backup supplies (sharpie, duct tape, knife, zip ties, first aid kit, bug repellent, sunscreen, valium (just kidding). For food, I will bring a rice &/or bean salad & I'm not commiting to this, but I'm breaking in my grill this week, so maybe grilled Island-style chicken-this is going to be fun, looking forward to seeing everyone!

[Anna Blume]

VERY tentative yes were I able to find transportation and way to engage in festivities (even prep) for a shortish period of time. Please PM if plans of someone from DC coincide.

I'd bring tomato soup cake or something less Connecticut circa 1965 in the dessert family.

[Scott Johnston]

OK DC!

If you are coming from DC and can give a ride to someone, let me know! If you need a ride, let me know or post!

As usual we will figure the ride thing out. Happy to bring folks from N. Virginia if you need a ride.

[edenman]

What time? I assume normal start of, what, 11am? And then on through the day?

[goldenticket]

I believe things usually get started around noon. Set-up probably will begin around 11:00. (right Scott J?)

[Walrus]

I will see what I can do about bringing cupcakes -- trite? Never!

[tripewriter]

I know myself and others with allergies would really appreciate if you note what oils you used in your cooking, since "vegetable" oil can turn out to be olive, canola, soybean or a combo- or if you used shortening, margarine, mayonnaise; or if you used any nuts, or any the top allergens that others have noted before.

Cincinnati-style Turkey Chili

This item will be manufactured on the same equipment that also makes products containing peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, and wheat, by someone often mistaken for a pickled pig.

[hillvalley]

I know myself and others with allergies would really appreciate if you note what oils you used in your cooking, since "vegetable" oil can turn out to be olive, canola, soybean or a combo- or if you used shortening, margarine, mayonnaise; or if you used any nuts, or any the top allergens that others have noted before. Otherwise I hope you won't mind me asking you about every ingredient in your dish Thank you again- and I truly appreciate your consideration!

In the past people volunteered to make signs for the different dishes and indicated important ingredient information. Perhaps someone would be willing to do so this year?

[Scott Johnston]

I maybe there a little eariler than that (site is ours starting at 10 am). Planning to stop by SB or DD for a large box o joe for the early birds.

I believe things usually get started around noon. Set-up probably will begin around 11:00. (right Scott J?)

[goldenticket]

In the past people volunteered to make signs for the different dishes and indicated important ingredient information. Perhaps someone would be willing to do so this year?

How about if blank labels are provided to be written up as dishes arrive

(I'd be happy to provide the blank labels and some Sharpies)

[goldenticket]

Update on picnic supplies....

Plates - Pat, Soup, Scott Johnston

Plastic Forks - Heather (500)

Plastic Spoons - Pat (25), DanielK

Plastic Knives - Pat (25), DanielK

Paper Towels/Napkins - Thistle, Scott Johnston

Cups - DanielK, Soup, Scott Johnston

Coolers - Scott Johnston, Thistle

Garbage Bags - Scott Johnston, Thistle

Table cloths - thistle

Soccer Equipment - DanielK

Nametags and labels for food - goldenticket

Looks like we can still use plastic knives and spoons, among other things. It's a good idea to bring serving utensils for whatever you bring.

Disposable containers (like Gladware) always come in handy for taking leftovers home - and there are usually leftovers

[lackadaisi]

It looks like this isn't going to work out for us after all. I was hoping the timing would be better, but I now have a clerkship reunion brunch at 11:30 and a meeting in Kansas City on Monday morning. If it were just us, I would still try to squeeze it in (not far from National and all), but with the baby and the in-laws, I'm thinking I will have to skip this one. Have fun everyone!

(This is truly very sad for me, and I can't wait until the Fall picnic.)

[DanielK]

I have plenty of plastic spoons and knives.

[legant]

Just in case you're undecided about attending: ol_ironstomach asked:

Think a springform mold will work as an egg ring for the emu egg experiment?

Now, if the answer to that question does not pique your curiosity...

[bTW: Rodman's has a set of 3 springform pans, 7-, 9-, and 11-inch, on sale for $11.99.]

[Pat]

I have plenty of plastic spoons and knives.

Good. I was figuring other people would be bringing some, since 25 of each won't go too far . I was going to bring along what we had that's just taking up space, but figured I could buy some just for the picnic if there aren't enough. Sounds like that won't be necessary, though.

[goldenticket]

Appetizers, snacks, finger food

Al Dente – Wings(?)

Scott Johnston – deviled eggs

StephenB – deviled eggs

Sides/Salads

cucas87 – Mojito Salad, Thai Beef Salad

Gubeen - Gravlax

Heather (+3) – Pickles, cornbread, lemonade

legant (+5) – baked beans

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1) – Chinese noodle dish

Pat (+1) - potato salad, bread

synaesthesia- japchae

Soup (+3) - jellyfish salad in mustard sauce

thistle (+4) - rice and/or bean salad

Hexerei (+1) - rolls

Main course

1. meat/fish

agm + NotQuickDraw – Pork

Bbq4me - Taco Bar

Ilaine (+3) – piglet

jparrott – ham(?)

Walrus + Tripewriter – Cincinnati turkey chili

xcanuck (+1) – homemade brisket and sausage

2. vegetarian/vegan

brettashley01 – Vegetarian frittata

Scott Johnston – Vegan veggie torte

Desserts/sweets

NCPinDC - fruit, brownies, maybe cupcakes

nashman1975 (+1) - fudgeful peanut butter bars

Beverages

Water – Tripewriter

Non-Alcoholic- Thistle, DanielK, Jparrott, Legant, Heather, Hexerei

Wine/Beer – Jparrott, fermenteverything, thistle, ScottJohnston

Misc.

Attending (maybes are italicized) but haven't decided what to bring

Antonio Burrell (+3)

bookluvingbabe + BLBaby

DanielK (+3) -

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

ferment everything

goldenticket

holdtheline (+1)

MBK

MelGold

Nutty Buddy + JPW + Peanut

ol_ironstomach

squidsdc

Tweaked

[Joshua Grinnell]

+1(Sarah) and I will bring dinner rolls for soaking up porky goodness and a jug of cold mint ice tea. It will be sweetened.

[Anna Blume]

VERY tentative yes were I able to find transportation and way to engage in festivities (even prep) for a shortish period of time. Please PM if plans of someone from DC coincide.

I'd bring tomato soup cake or something less Connecticut circa 1965 in the dessert family.

Unfortunately, I won't be able to attend. I hope you all have a fabulous day!!!

[agm]

NQD and I now have a +1. Oh, and please change "pork" to "pig".

[SeanMike]

I'd really like to attend, but I'm helping to organize our condo complex's block party the day before, so I might be wiped out.

If I do I'll bring wings.

(Now I need to go back and re-read this whole thread again to confirm the policies on beverages for the park and transportation - am I right in assuming it's not Metro-able?)

[jparrott]

Ham is acquired (upgrading from supermarket country ham to Calhoun's). To be smoked Friday or Saturday.

People. Please. Bring. Water. There's never enough. And don't forget Cellar Share!

[goldenticket]

I'd really like to attend, but I'm helping to organize our condo complex's block party the day before, so I might be wiped out.

If I do I'll bring wings.

(Now I need to go back and re-read this whole thread again to confirm the policies on beverages for the park and transportation - am I right in assuming it's not Metro-able?)

Wine and beer are allowed at the park...creative packaging required for other elixirs . No, unfortunately, the park isn't Metro accessible, but if you need a ride, post here or PM Scott Johnston and we'll see if can get you hooked up with someone coming from your area.

[goldenticket]

If you're down as a maybe and are ready to commit, shoot me a PM with what you plan to bring and I'll move you to the appropriate category. Looks like appetizers, vegetarian dishes, and desserts could use some additional contributions.

Appetizers, snacks, finger food

Al Dente – Wings(?)

Gubeen - Gravlax

Scott Johnston – deviled eggs

StephenB – deviled eggs

Sides/Salads

cucas87 – Mojito Salad, Thai Beef Salad

Heather (+3) – Pickles, cornbread, lemonade

legant (+5) – baked beans

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1) – Chinese noodle dish

Pat (+1) - potato salad, bread

synaesthesia- japchae

Soup (+3) - jellyfish salad in mustard sauce

thistle (+4) - rice and/or bean salad

Hexerei (+1) - rolls

Main course

1. meat/fish

agm + NotQuickDraw (+1) – Pig

Bbq4me - Taco Bar

Ilaine (+3) – piglet

jparrott - ham

Walrus + Tripewriter – Cincinnati turkey chili

xcanuck (+1) – homemade brisket and sausage

2. vegetarian/vegan

brettashley01 – Vegetarian frittata

Scott Johnston – Vegan veggie torte

nashman1975 - sweet potato salad

Desserts/sweets

goodeats (+2) - chocolate chip cookies and apple pie

NCPinDC - fruit, brownies, maybe cupcakes

nashman1975 (+1) - fudgeful peanut butter bars and caramel brownies

Walrus - cupcakes

Beverages

Water – Tripewriter, Jparrott

Non-Alcoholic- Thistle, DanielK, Jparrott, Legant, Heather, Hexerei

Wine/Beer – Jparrott, fermenteverything, thistle, ScottJohnston

All who wish to contribute to the Cellar Share - bring something nice/interesting to share!

Misc.

Attending (maybes are italicized) but haven't decided what to bring

Antonio Burrell (+3)

bookluvingbabe + BLBaby

DanielK (+3) -

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

ferment everything

goldenticket

holdtheline (+1)

MBK

MelGold

Nutty Buddy + JPW + Peanut

ol_ironstomach

SeanMike (wings)

squidsdc

Tweaked

[nashman1975]

Add caramel brownies and sweet potato salad (can you call that vegetarian?) for me to help supplement your shortfalls.

[Walrus]

As mentioned above, I'll attempt cupcakes as well.

And I think you missed that JParrot will be bringing water

[sparkycom]

I'm in, +3. Will bring spring rolls (shrimp, chicken) and a dessert (type subject to mood, nods to Legant). If anyone remembers the rosemary fizz concoction I brought last year and would like to see another cameo appearance, let me know.

[goldenticket]

If anyone remembers the rosemary fizz concoction I brought last year and would like to see another cameo appearance, let me know.

I do and I would! It was VERY good

[sparkycom]

I do and I would! It was VERY good

Ok, put me down for that as well. Thanks for the compliment!

[Scott Johnston]

Weather report looks good for next week. The picnic will go on rain or shine. I have a couple of tarps and some rope so that we can enclose part of the shelter if we need too (Like we did last year, only with the right supplies this year!)

[Scott Johnston]

DIRECTIONS FOR PICNIC

LOCATION: FORT HUNT PARK C-2

On Site Phone: Scott Johnston 703.282.0819 (cell)

From Downtown Washington, DC:

Take 14th Street Bridge south towards Virginia). Take Exit for Mt. Vernon/National Airport; continue past National Airport, through Old Town Alexandria; Fort Hunt Park is 5 miles south of Old Town Alexandria; exit to the right at the sign marked "FORT HUNT ROAD/FORT HUNT PARK".

Beltway from Maryland to Alexandria, Virginia:

Take very first exit after Wilson Bridge (Mt. Vernon Highway); this will put you on South Washington Street; continue for 5 miles; exit to the right at the sign marked "FORT HUNT ROAD/FORT HUNT PARK".

NOTE: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Mt. Vernon Highway, and Washington Street, are all the same road depending on where you are at the moment.

Beltway from Virginia to Alexandria, Virginia:

Take Exit 1 North; go to the first traffic light and take a right on Franklin Street; go about 3 blocks and take a right on South Washington Street; continue for 5 miles; exit to the right at the sign marked "FORT HUNT ROAD/FORT HUNT PARK".

[synaesthesia]

I won't be able to make it. Have fun guys!

[edenman]

I'm in +1 and bringing 3 pounds of home-cured bacon and some random big bottles of beer. Anybody bringing a cooking apparatus that I can use to cook the bacon with (grill/griddle)?

[squidsdc]

I suspected the timing would not work out, and it hasn't. A family member is moving, and just let us know last night that the truck is set for Sunday. (Darn! I was hoping for Saturday) So, count me out. (Thanks for the PM goldenticket--I just had been too busy this morning to log on to post)

Have fun y'all!

[goldenticket]

Appetizers, snacks, finger food

Al Dente – Wings(?)

Gubeen - Gravlax

Scott Johnston – deviled eggs

SeanMike - wings

Sparkycom (+3) - Spring Rolls (chicken, shrimp)

StephenB – deviled eggs

Sides/Salads

Antonio Burrell (+3) - pork pate

cucas87 – Mojito Salad, Thai Beef Salad

Heather – Pickles, cornbread, lemonade

legant (+5) – baked beans

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1) – Chinese noodle dish

Pat (+1) - potato salad, bread

Soup (+3) - jellyfish salad in mustard sauce

thistle (+4) - rice and/or bean salad

Hexerei (+1) - rolls

Main course

1. meat/fish

Antonio Burrell (+3) - Fried Chicken

agm + NotQuickDraw (+1) – Pig

Bbq4me - Taco Bar

Fermenteverything (+1) - 3 lbs. home cured bacon

Ilaine (+3) – piglet

jparrott - ham

Walrus + Tripewriter – Cincinnati turkey chili

2. vegetarian/vegan

brettashley01 – Vegetarian frittata

Scott Johnston – Vegan veggie torte

ol_ironstomach - Ostrich Egg...something

nashman1975 - sweet potato salad

Desserts/sweets

bookluvingbabe + BLBaby - fruity dessert

goodeats (+2) - chocolate chip cookies and apple pie

MelGold - (The famous) Mango Mold

NCPinDC - fruit, brownies, maybe cupcakes

nashman1975 (+1) - fudgeful peanut butter bars and caramel brownie

Sparkycom- TBD

Walrus - cupcakes

Beverages

Water – Tripewriter, Jparrott, ol_ironstomach, ScottJohnston

Non-Alcoholic- Thistle, DanielK, Jparrott, Legant, Heather, Hexerei

Wine/Beer – Jparrott, fermenteverything, thistle, ScottJohnston, Fermenteverything, JPW/Nutty Buddy

Misc. - Rosemary Fizz - Sparkycom

All who wish to contribute to the Cellar Share - bring something nice/interesting to share!

Misc. thistle - Campchef stove

ol_ironstomach - camp stove and griddle

Attending (maybes are italicized) but haven't decided what to bring

DanielK (+3)

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

goldenticket (+1)

MBK

Nutty Buddy + JPW + Peanut

[Al Dente]

I'm still on the hook for my wings, but I'm looking into gettin' a big hunk o' PORK BELLY instead. Will someone have a grill I could use?

And how much should I bring?

[edenman]

I'm still on the hook for my wings, but I'm looking into gettin' a big hunk o' PORK BELLY instead. Will someone have a grill I could use?

And how much should I bring?

The amount of pork belly at this picnic will be incredible. Maybe I'll only bring half my batch.

[Al Dente]

The amount of pork belly at this picnic will be incredible. Maybe I'll only bring half my batch.

Ooops, I didn't notice you were on pork belly patrol. I'll do something else or revert to wingage.

[jparrott]

And I think you missed that JParrot will be bringing water

Everyone needs to bring water. Seriously. Three picnics ago, we ran out of water.

It's not like it goes bad, after all .

[thistle]

Along w/ other stuff (beverages, food, hard goods), I'll be packing the 10 gallon water cooler & the Campchef stove for folks that want to cook onsite-it has 3 30K burners, a grill box that covers 2 burners & I can bring a cast iron skillet for the 3rd burner.

Very much OT, but I had the BEST mother's day lunch yesterday at Thai Herbs (Richmond Hwy.)-it was a buffet & I had pad thai, larb (multiple portions!), seafood curry, spring rolls, rice, salmon, thai grilled chicken & the most amazing key lime cheesecake-I really shouldn't be hungry again until Sunday...

[edenman]

Ooops, I didn't notice you were on pork belly patrol. I'll do something else or revert to wingage.

I didn't mean to say that as a deterrent. I think a "belly-off" is a wonderful idea (as long as we're only talking about the pork ones)

[Bomboniera]

Weather and baby permitting, the mister and I are planning to attend. Quick question - is public transportation an option, or do we just need to chuck it and get a ZipCar?

[ol_ironstomach]

I'm in +1 and bringing 3 pounds of home-cured bacon and some random big bottles of beer. Anybody bringing a cooking apparatus that I can use to cook the bacon with (grill/griddle)?

Rest assured, as Scott indicated earlier, I will be bringing the Griddle of Doom again.

On a related note, last week Costco (Frederick) was selling a combo pack of the larger, heavier Camp Chef *3* burner stove and what I believe was the identical griddle, for a very reasonable price. Dwarfs my portable 2-burner unit, that's for sure.

[xcanuck]

And we're out. The rest of my spring hockey schedule came out and I've got a game on Sunday. Have a great time!

[goldenticket]

Weather and baby permitting, the mister and I are planning to attend. Quick question - is public transportation an option, or do we just need to chuck it and get a ZipCar?

Unfortunately, the park isn't really accessible by public transportation. You could Metro to Huntington or King St. and cab from there.

This is a good place to mention that if you are driving and have spots in your car, please post here or PM Scott Johnston so we can arrange carpools for those who might need a ride.

[jparrott]

Here's a potential party game!

[synaesthesia]

Here's a potential party game!

Tsk tsk. You forgot to tell people to bring more water.

[goldenticket]

Just a reminder that it's not too late to join in the fun!

The weather looks promising, there will be plenty of food, drink, and good times.

If you've been on the fence about coming to the picnic, now's the time to take the plunge! I hope to add some more names to the list in the next few days.

[ol_ironstomach]

Emu is out. Ostrich is in. Label says equivalent to 24 chicken eggs.

Might have to baste this one...not sure it can be made sunny-side-up.

[nashman1975]

I live right next to the Ballston Metro (as in the opposite corner) and have 3 spots in my wheels. Gimme a PM if you want a ride. Not sure when going down and leaving.

Nashman

[jparrott]

Tsk tsk. You forgot to tell people to bring more water.

Good point.

You heard the dame.

[legant]

Uhm... I don't quite remember any Rosemary Fizz. Is that reason enough for it to make a repeat appearance.

If anyone remembers the rosemary fizz concoction I brought last year and would like to see another cameo appearance, let me know.

[Heather]

Unfortunately, it will now be just me making a relatively brief appearance.

[bookluvingbabe]

Still making an appearence (probably 1:30ish) with baby in tow.

Will bring water and some fruity dessert thing.

[Ferhat Yalcin]

I am not sure if I can make it. In case I do , I`ll bring some liquid.

[goodeats]

I have room for 2 in my car, if they don't mind sitting next to the car seat. I'm in Arlington, and can give a ride to pick up someone living nearby, or whomever is willing to metro to EFC (orange line).

Also, I'll be bringing my KidPod if a baby/toddler needs a place to nap.

[goldenticket]

Appetizers, snacks, finger food

Al Dente – Wings(?)

Goldenticket (+1) - Assorted dips, veggies, etc.

Gubeen - Gravlax

Scott Johnston – deviled eggs

SeanMike - wings

Sparkycom (+3) - Spring Rolls (chicken, shrimp)

StephenB – deviled eggs

Sides/Salads

Antonio Burrell (+3) - pork pate

cucas87 – Mojito Salad, Thai Beef Salad

Goldenticket - Cole slaw, some sort of Grain (Quinoa, Wheatberrry) or Pasta salad

Heather – Pickles, cornbread, lemonade

legant (+5) – baked beans

LuvTeddyBears8 (+1) – Chinese noodle dish

Pat (+1) - potato salad, bread

SeanMike - Asparagus

Soup (+3) - jellyfish salad in mustard sauce

thistle (+4) - rice and/or bean salad

Hexerei (+1) - rolls

Main course

1. meat/fish

Antonio Burrell (+3) - Fried Chicken

agm + NotQuickDraw (+1) – Pig

Bbq4me - Taco Bar

Fermenteverything (+1) - 3 lbs. home cured bacon

Ilaine (+3) – piglet

jparrott - ham

Walrus + Tripewriter – Cincinnati turkey chili

2. vegetarian/vegan

brettashley01 – Vegetarian frittata

Scott Johnston – Vegan veggie torte

ol_ironstomach - Ostrich Egg...something

nashman1975 - sweet potato salad

Desserts/sweets

bookluvingbabe + BLBaby - fruity dessert

goodeats (+2) - chocolate chip cookies and apple pie

MelGold - (The famous) Mango Mold

NCPinDC - fruit, brownies, maybe cupcakes

nashman1975 (+1) - fudgeful peanut butter bars and caramel brownie

Sparkycom- TBD

Walrus - cupcakes

Beverages

Water – Tripewriter, Jparrott, ol_ironstomach, ScottJohnston

Non-Alcoholic- Thistle, DanielK, Jparrott, Legant, Heather, Hexerei

Wine/Beer – Jparrott, fermenteverything, thistle, ScottJohnston, Fermenteverything, JPW/Nutty Buddy

Misc. - Rosemary Fizz - Sparkycom

All who wish to contribute to the Cellar Share - bring something nice/interesting to share!

Misc. thistle - Campchef stove

ol_ironstomach - camp stove and griddle

Attending (maybes are italicized) but haven't decided what to bring

DanielK (+3)

Ferhat Yalcin (+1)

MBK

Nutty Buddy + JPW + Peanut

[goldenticket]

For the nth picnic in a row, Cellar Cull Share is on. Please bring one or more bottles of fascinating, intriguing, exciting, or off-the-wall juice. We'll have a table set up. Once the wine is on the table, anyone with a corkscrew and a cup can open it. Mr. JPW and I will be performing our usual husbandry, mainly involving sniffing suspect bottles and killing crabgrass with corked bottles.

Some plaintive entreaties guidelines:

1. This is in addition to other contributions to the picnic. Like, say, water. Water. WATER. WATER.

2. If you bring the chili wine or some other tourist-trappy silliness, try to also bring something with a higher probability of success.

3. Have fun with this. Introduce people to wines you know. Ask questions about wines you don't. And carefully conceal your wines that are made by boiling beer or other alcoholic goodness and taking the vapor.

A note about beverages: Please bring something to drink. As has been noted (several times) water is always needed. You are also encouraged to bring beer or wine to share, in addition to your other contributions. There will be coolers available with ice to chill beverages. Don't bring swill for the Cellar Share - if you don't want to drink it, probably nobody else does either.

[brettashley01]

Am I the only one who can't figure out what time the picnic is taking place??

[goldenticket]

It begins at noon. I think this is somewhere in the thread, but not real obvious.

Thanks for bringing it up. Setup will get started around 10-10:30 am, if anyone is interested in showing up early.

and here are the directions:

LOCATION: FORT HUNT PARK Area C-2[

This picnic site is about half-way around the loop drive that you follow through the park.

On Site Phone: Scott Johnston 703.282.0819 (cell)

From Downtown Washington, DC:

Take 14th Street Bridge south towards Virginia). Take Exit for Mt. Vernon/National Airport; continue past National Airport, through Old Town Alexandria; Fort Hunt Park is 5 miles south of Old Town Alexandria; exit to the right at the sign marked "FORT HUNT ROAD/FORT HUNT PARK".

Beltway from Maryland to Alexandria, Virginia:

Take very first exit after Wilson Bridge (Mt. Vernon Highway); this will put you on South Washington Street; continue for 5 miles; exit to the right at the sign marked "FORT HUNT ROAD/FORT HUNT PARK".

NOTE: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Mt. Vernon Highway, and Washington Street, are all the same road depending on where you are at the moment.

Beltway from Virginia to Alexandria, Virginia:

Take Exit 1 North; go to the first traffic light and take a right on Franklin Street; go about 3 blocks and take a right on South Washington Street; continue for 5 miles; exit to the right at the sign marked "FORT HUNT ROAD/FORT HUNT PARK".

[Scott Johnston]

By request:

I will be brining homemade hot sauce, homemade carolina BBQ sauce, and some pickles

[jparrott]

By request:

I will be brining homemade hot sauce, homemade carolina BBQ sauce, and some pickles

Wow. You better bring extra water then.

[Scott Johnston]

This would be the perfect opportunity to repeat the Do's and Don'ts from previous picnics for the benefit of anyone thinking of coming to our six picnic who may not be sure what it is all about: Cucas87 put together an additional FAQ for the last picnic which is worth taking a look at as well. (Credit for most of this post goes to picnic queen Crackers, for whom all picnic goodness is derived)

DO come to the picnic even if you don't cook. Goodies picked up from your favorite bakery/cheese shop/restaurant/wine shop are perfectly fine. An appetite for delicious food and drink is all that is required.

DON'T think you have to make something fancy if you are cooking. Keep in mind that your dish may need to sit out at room temperature for at least an hour or two and that it will be eaten in a picnic setting.

DO consider other non-food options if you don't want to cook anything. One member brought a soccer set to the last picnic and it was a big hit with the kids. Beverages (adult and otherwise) are also greatly appreciated.

DON'T make tons and tons of food. Ten to twelve servings is plenty. Really. There will be a lot of fabulous food to taste and most everyone will only want a bite or two of any one item.

DO try to remember to bring appropriate prep and serving utensils for whatever food you bring.

DON'T feel you need to present your food in your best crystal, silver and/or china. In fact, if you don't plan on staying all afternoon, disposable serving containers are preferable.

DO put your name on any items you are concerned might get lost or left behind (a piece of masking tape with your name written on it with waterproof ink works great for this).

DON'T even think about not showing up just because you are running late. Come anyway. I suspect we'll be there until they kick us out of the park.

DO bring your families. Children of all ages are very welcome.

DON'T bring your pets. We have hearty appetites and hot grills and we'd hate to make a drunken mistake.

DO come even if your dog ate your lovingly prepared dish in a fit of vengeance because it could not attend the picnic and you have to make a last minute change to what you said you'd be bringing.

DON'T eat a large breakfast beforehand. Once again, there will be a lot of food.

DO refrain from posting any photographs or videos from the picnic on the internet that include a person's face, unless that person has given you permission to post it. This is a private event and we value and respect everybody's privacy.

DON'T worry, be happy!

Donations: Don was kind enough to front the $160 fee for the picnic site rental. Once again we are asking for voluntary donations to spread the cost among all of us who will be enjoying ourselves. The donation jar will be at the sign-in table.

Timing: Some people who can't stay the whole time have asked when prime "eating time" is going to be. The food will go out on the tables starting before noon, and reinforcements will arrive all afternoon.

We have yet to come close to running out of food. Unfortunately, once again it doesn't look like there will be any jello molds or even anything containing Miracle Whip (and we have the nerve to call this a picnic ). I hope people aren't so disappointed by this that they decide not to come.

Equipment: There are no grills at the picnic site. If you have something to grill, bring whatever you need to do that. There is also no running water, except in the nearby bathrooms. I'd suggest bringing a water bottle or two for yourself. Coolers and ice have come in handy if you have those to spare. Folding chairs are always a good idea. There will be picnic tables set up under the pavillion, but if you want to eat under the trees, there are bark chip/pine needles around the site, and not all that much grass. Playpens and strollers are also a good idea if those work for you. Cameras are fine too - just no face shots on the internet without permission. Sunscreen, insect repellant and aspirin are always in style. I have hand disinfectant left from the last picnic that I will bring, and a basic first aid kit.

If you are planning to be there to help set-up or clean up, please shoot me a PM so I'll know how many strong backs we will have to move tables and stuff.

[goldenticket]

(Credit for most of this post goes to picnic queen Crackers, for whom all picnic goodness is derived)

And let's not forget the other picnic royalty - Mktye and Hillvalley- whose past picnic efforts make current planning, well... a picnic!

We have yet to come close to running out of food. Unfortunately, once again it doesn't look like there will be any jello molds or even anything containing Miracle Whip (and we have the nerve to call this a picnic ).

Not true, not true - MelGold is reprising her famous Mango Mold!

[KJHughes60]

Newbie here! Will be the +1 tagging along with Loretta Chi. I'll be bringing along a few bottles of vino to complement the abundance pork products that are planned.

I was wondering if anyone would have GRILL space for some fresh, marinated Chorizo. Would need to know by this evening. The sausages would need to marinade at least 24 hours.

Looking forward to meeting you all!

Karen

[Scott Johnston]

WELCOME WELCOME

I am sure we can use the griddle if not someone's grill!

Scott

Newbie here! Will be the +1 tagging along with Loretta Chi. I'll be bringing along a few bottles of vino to complement the abundance pork products that are planned.

I was wondering if anyone would have GRILL space for some fresh, marinated Chorizo. Would need to know by this evening. The sausages would need to marinade at least 24 hours.

Looking forward to meeting you all!

Karen

[Ilaine]

Newbie here! Will be the +1 tagging along with Loretta Chi. I'll be bringing along a few bottles of vino to complement the abundance pork products that are planned.

I was wondering if anyone would have GRILL space for some fresh, marinated Chorizo. Would need to know by this evening. The sausages would need to marinade at least 24 hours.

Looking forward to meeting you all!

Karen

We have a Weber kettle grill we can bring, but weren't planning on using it so there is the issue of charcoal, tongs, etc.

We are dithering over whether to cook our piglet on a New Braunfels offset smoker -- which would not be a good solution for chorizo, in my opinion -- or roasting it at home, due to predictions of rain, not to mention logistical timing. The park opens at 7:00 a.m., at 300-350 degrees, I am still trying to work out the estimates but the pig will take at least six hours to cook in optimum conditions and cold rainy weather is not optimum.

[goldenticket]

I'll be packing the Campchef stove for folks that want to cook onsite-it has 3 30K burners, a grill box that covers 2 burners & I can bring a cast iron skillet for the 3rd burner.

Rest assured, as Scott indicated earlier, I will be bringing the Griddle of Doom again.

I think we've got the grill/cooking apparatus for chorizo covered. Sounds great Karen - look forward to seeing you at the picnic!

[StephenB]

Scott, you and I seem to be on the same tracks. I have a gallon of Kosher pickles that I planned to bring. I should have mentioned them earlier. Are they now redundant?

[tripewriter]

I think we've got the grill/cooking apparatus for chorizo covered. Sounds great Karen - look forward to seeing you at the picnic!

My mouth is a-waterin'! Chorizo is teh awsum!

[Scott Johnston]

Nope I have Bread and Butter pickles. (Does this mean we have to compete on eggs and pickles?, I am not sure if I can stand the stress!)

Scott, you and I seem to be on the same tracks. I have a gallon of Kosher pickles that I planned to bring. I should have mentioned them earlier. Are they now redundant?

[Heather]

It's now looking very unlikely that I can make it. Have fun.

[KJHughes60]

OK, off to find a decent bottle of Rioja for the marinade. Will be contributing about four pounds of fresh, marinated Chorizo. Looking forward to tomorrow ... Cya all there!!!!

[legant]

Okay... after a good soaking... overnight... it's time to start baking those beans.

In addition to the baked beans, my crew will be bringing: water, a vegetarian side, and 2 desserts (1 will probably be gluten free).

I want to give a shout-out to those... mainstays at past picnics... who are unable to make it this time around. Without embarrassing or neglecting anyone in particular I will say: you... and your contribution(s)... will be sorely missed.

And, to those newbies or fence-sitters: ... well; there is nothing I can add to entice you to attend that hasn't been mentioned upthread. The food is wonderful, the people are fantastic if a bit distracted (True Story: At my first DR.com picnic/event a certain Rockwellian came up to introduce herself and welcome me. I admit: I offered only a cursory, returned greeting. She later said, as we dished the dirt, she completely understood: there are certain, non-negotiable priorities at a DR.com picnic. And, StephenB's and ScottJohnston's deviled eggs are in the top three. Pork products round out the list. She would be around a lot longer than any of the food offerings. So: don't be offended if someone asks whacha got there before they ask your name.) and a good time will be had by all.

[Antonio Burrell]

Am I the only one who can't figure out what time the picnic is taking place??

It starts when the food arrives and ends when it's gone

[DonRocks]

Okay... after a good soaking... overnight... it's time to start baking those beans.

Fell asleep in the tub?

[hillvalley]

I'm bringing roasted asparagus in a vinaigrette based on what I find at market tomorrow. I consider aspraragus one of the best picinc finger foods there is at this time of year.

I thought about trying to bring a version of these but I am worried they won't travel well. Thoughts?