Map Legends From aeronautical charts of South America to topographical atlases of Kentucky, downtown’s ADC Map and Travel Center answers most cartographic needs—even the Secret Service’s. Tuesday morning, a sergeant from the service’s uniformed division pores over a D.C. map with a new colleague. The veteran apparently has little use for far-reaching cartography. He first asks for maps of just Northwest, but has to settle for a citywide version. “We don’t gotta worry about this crap,” he tells the rookie, placing his hand over east-of-the-river Washington. “Never go over there.” Later, pointing at Washington Hospital Center, he offers one other piece of wisdom: “Stay off Irving Street, too.” Armed with advice, the younger officer purchases the map.

Reporting by Jeff Becan, Stephanie Mencimer, Michael Schaffer, and Mark Stricherz.

Please send your City Desk tips to Elissa Silverman at esilverman@washcp.com or call 332-2100 and ask for my voice mail.