Jim - I would love to come. I have never been to DC so this would be a great trip. I can't know for sure for a wee bit but will there be more thorough listings of total cost (hotels and such)?
Yes, as the details come together we'll post it all.
Do a priceline or hotwire search of Washington DC and see what you come up with. I think you may be able to take the metro to where the ball is going to be. Alexandria is a personal favorite :). You can also call Gallaudet University in DC - this is a university where deaf students are educated - they run a hotel on their school grounds that I heard is similar to a Days Inn, for about 70 dollars a night. The students run it. I know that sounds odd but its true.