Martin Austermuhle
Sex-Slave Trafficking Ring Broken Up: We’d always heard rumors that certain massage parlors in the District offered, ummmm, “happy endings” and other such services. Apparently, the rumors were true. Federal officials yesterday arrested 31 people along the east coast involved in a sex-slave trafficking ring that forced Korean women to work as prostitutes in massage parlors and spas, some of which were located in the District. Four men were arrested in the District following raids on the OK Spa in Glover Park, the 14K Spa on K Street, the Downtown Spa on Vermont Avenue, and the Cleveland Park Holistic Spa on Connecticut Avenue. We admit it — Tom Knott was right about these places.
Cropp/Fenty Debate Tease Ends: After repeated days of relatively foolish back-and-forths between the campaigns of mayoral candidates Adrian Fenty and Linda Cropp, both have agreed to a live, hour-long debate to be aired on NewsChannel 8, writes the Post. The debate, which will be moderated by anchor Bruce DePuyt, will take place on August 28 at 4 p.m.
Ehrlich Signs Defaced: Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich can’t be happy — many of his campaign signs have been defaced with large graffiti peace symbols, reports the Washington Times. The Ehrlich campaign is still looking for the responsible vandals, but has few leads as to who might be behind the acts. Borf, maybe?
Briefly Noted: Anti-DUI campaign kicks off … Allen tries to mend fences after “macaca” incident … Rosenbaum suspects get separate trials.
This Day in DCist: On this day last year, we reported on D.C. Mayor Anthony Williams’ new blog, made a Beet and Goat Cheese salad, saw some staff changes at the Washingtonian, explored the District’s late night yoga options, and got the bad news on the city’s HIV/AIDS crisis. Two years ago, we discussed Little Ethiopia and reported on a rising youth death rate (my, how little times have changed).
Picture snapped by AlephNull
