Watch the All-Star game at Nationals Park!

I've long advocated leaving the monumental core of the city and taking in some other sights while in Washington, DC; and even suggested a few weeks ago taking in a Nationals game while in town.

Now, the one downside of going to a Nats game is that they keep making the Nats take the field against major league baseball teams, which is just unfair to everyone involved. If only there was a way to check out the brand new stadium without the cringing embarrassment of watching the Nats find new ways to lose.

Well, if you're in town on July 14th, have I got a deal for you. A local charity, the Capitol Hill Group Ministry, is holding it's summer fundraiser at Nationals Park during the All-Star Game. Besides watching the All-Star game at the Diamond Club overlooking the field, you will get an opportunity to take a few picthes from professional pitchers in the batting cage, tours of Nationals Park, and a chance to get up close and personal with the Running Presidents.

The event will cost $50 per head, with children under the age of 12 costing $25. All proceeds, of course, go to charity; in this case CHGM's mission of helping homeless families. To purchase tickets, go to their website at www.capitolhillgroupministry.org or call (202) 486-8822.

So, if you're in town the 14th, come on out to Nationals Park. Beats watching the game in your hotel.