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Guide to Giving More than 60 ways to make a difference in our community

16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM November/December 2016 | Volume 13 Issue 6 contents VENTURAMICHAELBYPHOTO ON THE COVER COVER: Photo MichaelbyVentura 158

177

The Making of a Family

The Azachi children from left to right: Danielle, Shai, Kobe and Hannah

BY RICH

When Karla and Jake Azachi signed up to be foster parents, they told their twin daughters that kids would come and stay with them, then go back home. But two of the newborns they cared for never left, changing all of them forever.

BY RESHMA MEMON YAQUB 128 in the name of luv

From a Bethesda resident who is fighting to preserve and plant trees, to a nonprofit that is reducing food waste, the seven winners of this year’s Bethesda Magazine Green Awards are dedicated to finding ways to help the environment

When you raise a family in the same house where you grew up, memories are everywhere

BY DAVID FREY 138 green giants

18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM contents 100 on the cutting edge

BY BARA VAIDA 116 no place like home

BY CARALEE ADAMS 152 Bethesda Interview Renowned ballerina and Bethesda native Julie Kent talks about her plans as the new artistic director of The Washington Ballet

FEATURES

The Bethesda region is an international hub for medical innovation and research. Here’s a window into some of the fascinating work taking place in our backyard.

Two years ago, Carolyn Mattingly was murdered in her Potomac home. Soon after, her husband, Richard, quit his job as a nonprofit executive and dedicated his life to making something good come out of the tragedy.

BY SARAH WILDMAN P. 152 P. 100 P. 138

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344 | FAMILY PORTRAIT Snapshot

270 | REVIEW

282 | COOKING

332 | PETS

Holiday

PROFILES: THE ONES TO WATCH 85 LONG & FOSTER AD SECTION 203 KITCHENSHOWCASE:&BATH 230 SENIORPROFILES:SERVICES 255 SALONSPROFILES:&SPAS 303 PRIVATE SCHOOL AD SECTION 334 AD SECTIONS contents LYNCHLIZBYPHOTO 20 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM P. 274

322 | GET

Five

HOUSE APPROPRIATIONS A beautiful wreath can offer a warm welcome at the front door, provide a festive focal point over the mantel, or add holiday pizzazz to a plain table 212 | GATHER ROUND THE FIRE From a Napa-inspired fire pit to a poolside gathering spot, these four outdoor fireplaces lend warmth and personality to local backyards 222 | HOME SALES BY THE NUMBERS 237 health 238 | BE WELL Pure Om’s Rachelle Demosthene explains why practicing yoga in a 105-degree room can be good for you 240 | LYME WARS Rockville physician Daniel Jaller believes Lyme disease can be chronic. Mainstream medicine says it can’t. CALENDAR 269 dine Former Mussel Bar chef opens Suma in Bethesda TALK entertaining tips CLASS Duck legs with a four-ingredient rub pair beautifully with lightly charred Brussels sprouts GUIDE 313 etc. TALK

24 | TO OUR READERS 26 | CONTRIBUTORS 32 | FROM OUR READERS 35 good life art. festivals. culture. day trips. hidden gems. 40 | BEST BETS Can’t-miss arts events 44 | ARTS CALENDAR Where to go, what to see 55 banter people. politics. books. columns. 58 | FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING Libraries by the numbers 64 | QUICK TAKES News you may have missed 68 | BOOK REPORT New books by local authors, literary events and more 76 | SUBURBANOLOGY Dinner party disasters BY APRIL WITT 80 | HOMETOWN Many Americans know the story of grieving parents Khizr and Ghazala Khan. Not many know about the eight years they spent raising three boys in Silver Spring. BY STEVE ROBERTS DEPARTMENTS 209 home 210 |

The owner of a local stationery boutique on holiday cards, wrapping paper and party invitations meeting in the real estate business, a local couple married in a luxurious celebration that included a crystal chuppah and a wall covered in 15,000 roses AWAY Your cheat sheet for a weekend away RANGE historic cemeteries offer deathly curiosities and a taste of the macabre How a very big dog got very lucky Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Rockville in 1861 helped keep Maryland in the Union of local lives

252 | WELLNESS

286 | DINING

274 | TABLE

318 | WEDDINGS After

314 | SHOP

324 | DRIVING

333 | FLASHBACK

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you receive our emails. 22 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM ❱❱ DIGITAL EDITION Subscribers get free access to the digital edition of Bethesda Magazine at BethesdaMagazine.com/digital. Use your email address as your log-in. To purchase digital issues or a subscription, download the free Bethesda Magazine app on iTunes or Amazon. ❱❱ ONLINE EXTRAS What’s online @ BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM OUR DAILY NEWS BRIEFING features stories about the community, Montgomery County politics and more. Get the Bethesda Beat daily newsletter in your inbox by signing up at BethesdaMagazine.com. GIVEAWAYS enter our MAGAZINE.COM To enter, go to BethesdaMagazine.com/giveaways NOV.STARTING1 12211 Nebel St. Enterwww.progressions.com301-231-8757RockvilleSTARTINGDEC.1forachancetowina $250 Gift Card to Balducci’s Catering www.balduccis.com/catering ❱❱ ARCHIVES Explore past issues and stories using our searchable archives. ❱❱ SOCIAL SCENE Share photos from community events by emailing them to website@bethesdamagazine.com, and we’ll post them to our gallery page. ❱❱SOCIAL MEDIA Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn about community news, special offers, local happenings and contests. ❱❱ NEWSLETTERS

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Browse through a slide show of photos taken by writer Laurie McClellan as she toured five historic cemeteries while doing research for Driving Range, which begins on page 324. Watch a slide show of photos of Kobe Azachi with his family. You can read their story on page 158. you ever wondered what goes into a cover shoot? Peek behind the scenes of ours to see the joy—and challenges—of taking pictures of two very active young children.

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to our readers

Several years ago I met Karla Azachi, who was an event planner at the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, where we were holding our first Best of Bethesda party. Karla and I bonded over the fact that we both had an adopted child. When she told me the remarkable story of how her daughter Shai came to join her family, I asked if we could tell it in the magazine.

Bethesda Magazine staff. Front two rows (left to right): Veronica Linares, Julie Rasicot, Jenny Ragone, Maire McArdle, Jennifer Farkas, Meghan Murphy, Jill Trone, Susan Hull, Douglas Tallman, Grace Toohey; Back row (left to right): Cindy Rich, Arlis Dellapa, Ashlyn Mason, Sarah Hogue, Mary Clare Glover, Kathleen Neary, Sandra Burley, Onecia Ribeiro. Not pictured: Paula Duggan, Laura Goode, Andrew Metcalf, Penny Skarupa, LuAnne Spurrell.

Four years ago the Azachis adopted Shai, and this past March they adopted a boy, now 2, named Kobe. I have no doubt that our story about the Azachi family, which begins on page 158, will inspire you and leave you feeling just a little better about humankind. It sure did both for me.

In this issue, Senior Editor Cindy Rich chronicles the journey of Karla and her husband, Jake, who—inspired by their Jewish faith and a scary medical crisis—decided they wanted to do more to help people in need. They chose to become foster parents and were hopeful that, against the odds, they would be able to adopt at least one of the kids who was placed with them.

Over the past seven years, the Azachis have fostered 11 children. The kids, all 6 and under, have come from unimaginable circumstances, usually involving parental drug use, neglect and/or abuse. Some have stayed for just a few days; others for longer. Regardless of how long they stay, saying goodbye is always hard for Karla, Jake and their two teenage daughters. Says Jake: “Every time they take that child away, it just rips you apart.”

24 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

STEVE HULL Editor-in-Chief & Publisher

The underlying cause of my dismay is people behaving badly. That’s been happening, of course, since we climbed out of the primordial ooze. But the difference between now and then (and even now and 20 years ago) is that these days it’s almost impossible to escape the bad news. Even when I turn off NPR, there’s still The Washington Post, The New York Times, Facebook, and friends and family members emailing me links to stories.

AN INSPIRING

Fortunately, every so often there’s a story that renews my faith in people. We are pleased to publish such a story in this issue.

TALE

BETHESDAINTAPABARATTAKENVENTURA;MICHAELBYPHOTO

THIS IS THE 75TH issue of Bethesda Magazine. Much has changed in the Bethesda area—and in the magazine— since our first issue in June 2004 (which was a slim 64 pages). But one thing has remained constant: Whatever success we’ve had is a result of our extraordinary staff. Every year in the November/December issue we run a photo of our employees on this page to acknowledge and thank the women and men who work so hard on the magazine, Bethesda Beat and our website. I am grateful for all they do.

FOR THE LAST 30 YEARS or so, I’ve been a loyal NPR listener on my drive to and from work—Morning Edition on my way in, and All Things Considered goingButhome.recently—especially in the latter stages of the presidential campaign— I’ve kept the radio off. Whether it’s Trump, Syria, lone-wolf terrorist attacks or police shootings, the news has been unremittingly dire. Statements by a presidential candidate, tragedies and crises that once would have been extraordinary have become routine. Even as a journalist, I’ve needed a break from the news.

But two of the kids didn’t ever leave.

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28 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Steve Hull DESIGN DIRECTOR Maire McArdle MANAGING EDITOR Mary Clare Glover SENIOR EDITOR Cindy Rich ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kathleen Seiler Neary DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR Laura F. Goode DESIGNER Jenny Ragone BETHESDA BEAT MANAGING EDITOR Julie Rasicot BETHESDA BEAT WRITERS Andrew Metcalf, Douglas Tallman WEB PRODUCER Veronica Linares RESTAURANT CRITIC David Hagedorn CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Eugene L. Meyer, Louis Peck, Carole Sugarman COPY EDITORS Sandra Fleishman, Steve Wilder EDITORIAL INTERNS Rachael Keeney, Joe Zimmermann DESIGN INTERN Kacey Lee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Caralee Adams, Jennifer Barger, Stephanie Siegel Burke, James Michael Causey, David Frey, Steve Goldstein, Christine Koubek, Maura Mahoney, Nevin Martell, Gabriele McCormick, Joanne Meszoly, Brian Patterson, Amy Reinink, Steve Roberts, Charlotte Safavi, Jennifer Sergent, Miranda S. Spivack, Mark Walston, Carolyn Weber, Kathleen Wheaton, April Witt

PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS Edgar Artiga, Skip Brown, Erick Gibson, Heather Fuentes, Lisa Helfert, Claudine Hellmuth, Darren Higgins, Deborah Jaffe, Alice Kresse, Liz Lynch, Amanda Smallwood, Mary Ann Smith, Michael Ventura, Stacy Zarin-Goldberg

Letters to the Editor: Please send letters (with your name and the town you live in) to letters@bethesda magazine.com.

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Posted on BethesdaMagazine.combyNewEmptyNester

In the July/August article “So Happy Together,” Raylan was spelled incorrectly. Also the dog’s ages were switched—Raylan is 5 and Watson is 2. In the September/October article “Still the Best?,” Alix Swann was mistakenly identified as Alix Glenn. n

I enjoyed the article on Alan Goodwin, school principal at Walt Whitman High School (“The Principal,” September/ October 2016). As a parent of two Whitman students, I am grateful for his leadership and dedication. And for the dedication of his staff, as well.

from our readers LYNCHLIZBYPHOTOCOVER

I was a little taken aback, however, by the way parents at Whitman were characterized in your article. The fact that Whitman has few disciplinary problems, high standardized test scores and a high percentage of college attendance after high school graduation has not been achieved in a vacuum. Many of the learning and behavioral issues that teachers may otherwise face are dealt with at home or through families seeking assistance outside of the school resources. And yes, there is no doubt that Whitman is in an affluent community. However, not every family is wealthy. In any community, parents want the best for their children, and I believe the faculty and the students and their families are very fortunate that we are all invested in the well-being and success of our students.

32 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

“Letting Go” (September/October 2016) is a wonderful article. It expresses perfectly the bittersweet feelings of sending off a child to college. We dropped off my son two days ago and your story rang so true. It’s not that I’ll just miss parenting, which I really enjoyed, but also having my son clutter up the house with his quirky, happy and sometimes moody self. I enjoyed spending time with him, when he would give it to me, and loved the person he is becoming. I’m looking forward to the pick-up and bring home part!

Catherine McCallumBethesda FOND FAREWELL

I once heard a quote that hints at the wonders of these magical creatures: “Dogs remind us that time is limited and

CORRECTIONS

I wanted to say how much I adored The Dog Issue (July/August 2016). change humans’ lives for the better; veterinarians can offer to extend the quality and length of our beloved family members’ all-too-short lives; the fun and fancy ways we coddle our canines; and the heart-wrenching story by Cindy Rich about a young girl’s best friend. It brought me back to the unbearable pain of losing my best friend, a collie/ shepherd named Lady, to cancer when I was 15 years old. The story so moved me, I couldn’t stop my tears from falling in public as I read the article in the nail

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art. festivals. culture. day trips. hidden gems. BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 35 GIBSONERICKBYPHOTO

L’Academie de Cuisine, 5021 Wilson Lane, Bethesda; www.lacademie.com/recreational301-986-9490,—Caralee

SOME COME WITH A DATE. Sometimes it’s a group of mom friends. Others arrive solo. As they walk into L’Academie de Cuisine’s kitchen, students put on red aprons, settle in at stations where ingredients are laid out, and turn their attention to the chef. In a class called Mediterranean Bread Basics, chef Amy Riolo stands at the front with a mirror angled down to show the 20 participants each step of making Moroccan country bread. Then

tion. The 500-plus recreational classes— some hands-on, some demonstration— offered each year in Bethesda range from basic knife skills to the art of making macarons to an intense sauce seminar. Most classes are about three hours and less than $100 per person.

the students work their way through the recipe in groups while they socialize and sip“It’swine.something to do together and work as a team,” says Debbie Pollack, 46, of Bethesda, who has taken several L’Academie de Cuisine cooking classes with friends. “It was impressive how easy it was to make delicious, beautiful bread.”

BECOME A BETTER CHEF

L’Academie de Cuisine also has fulltime professional culinary arts and pastry arts programs at its Gaithersburg loca

good life

Adams

VÜK—which gets its name from the vertical up-kicker pinball launcher and the Serbian word for wolf—hosts pinball tournaments every two months, and a pinball league started meeting there this summer.

TO SOME, IT’S A TRIFECTA of good times: pinball machines, simple New York-style pizza and heavy metal music. Opened in May by MOM’s Organic Market founder and CEO Scott Nash, VÜK keeps the vibe unfussy: With dim lighting and a relaxed atmosphere, the long, narrow restaurant is supposed to feel like a friend’s basement.

Though Nash says he expected the place to be popular among adults, kids often dominate the crowd during VÜK’s daytime hours, enjoying the 10 pinball machines and the two arcade games. Each play costs two quarters (there’s a change machine on-site). After 5 p.m., VÜK’s clientele skews toward adults who eat at the indoor and outdoor seating or gather around The Lord of the Rings or Metallica pinball machines.

GIBSONERICKBYPHOTO

good life 36 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

VÜK, 4924 St. Elmo Ave., Bethesda; 301-652-8000,—Jvukpinball.comoeZimmermann

PINBALL HEAVEN

The restaurant serves about a half-dozen beers alongside the pizza, which can be bought as a full pie or by the slice.

BETHESDA’S GATED, CONCIERGE-CLASS CONDOMINIUM HOMES Sales and marketing by The Mayhood Company. Equal Housing Opportunity project. Developed by 1788 Holdings / IHP Capital Partners FEATURING FOUR FULLY FURNISHED PREVIEW MODELS MOVE-IN READY RESIDENCES FROM THE $900 s Visit the Quarry Springs Sales Center • 8101 River Road, Bethesda sales@quarrysprings.com • 301.812.4453 NOW 35% SOLD!

TEST YOUR NINJA WARRIOR SKILLS

And it’s not just for kids—Oboler says he has seen adults standing by and watching their kids one day, and then wearing their own harnesses on the ropes course a few days later.

WHEN YOU WALK INTO ZavaZone in Rockville, it’s decision time. To the right, there’s a course that looks like it’s straight out of the TV show Ameri can Ninja Warrior. Parkour obstacles that require jumping are to the left, trampo lines to the back.

ZavaZone, 40 Southlawn Court, Rockville; 240-614-7800, www.zavazone.com—JoeZimmermann

Eileen Weller, 43, of Chevy Chase, brought her kids to ZavaZone in August after they’d been there for a friend’s party. “They all wanted to come back here,” she says. “They’ve been begging me.”

ZavaZone is open from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admis sion is $19.50 for one hour, $34 for two hours, $44 for three and $54 for four.

good life GIBSONERICKBYPHOTO 38 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Josh Oboler, a managing partner at ZavaZone, says his two daughters used to argue about whether to go to a tram poline gym or a climbing wall, so he decided to open a place that has both— and more. Visitors can bounce on tram polines in the basketball dunking area or walk atop increasingly tall pillars. A seethrough, double-sided climbing wall lets you race a friend on the other side.

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 39

It’s been 25 years since Disney first delighted audiences with Beauty and the Beast. Imagination Stage in Bethesda brings to life the beloved story of Belle and a beast who turns out to be more than he seems. The production will include all the classic music, such as “Be Our Guest” and, of course, “Beauty and the Beast,” but designers are planning a more sophisticated look than the typical Disney fare. Clocking in at just an hour and 15 minutes, the show—recommended for ages 4 and up—may be easier for children to sit through than the 2½-hour Broadway version.

SOUNDS OF SILENCE Long before the age of stadium seating, computer graphics and surround sound, there was silent cinema. Movies were black and white, and live musicians often provided a cinematic score. Modern audiences can get a taste of that experience when the AFI Silver Theatre presents its annual Silent Cinema Showcase, featuring silent movies accompanied by live music, ranging from solo organists to a full orchestra. The lineup includes some of the most popular silent films from the early 1900s, including Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ (1925) and Charlie Chaplin’s The Circus (1928).

AFI Silver, $8-$20, www.afi.com/silver

Nov. 3-4 BACK IN BLACK

Our picks for the best things to see and do in November and December

Imagination Stage, $10-$42, www.imaginationstage.org Through Nov. 20

Seneca Creek State Park, $12-$15 for cars, SUVs and minivans, www.gaithersburgmd.gov

Visitors can drive through 3.5 miles of sparkling light displays with themes such as Teddy Bear Land, Victorian Village and the North Pole at Gaithersburg’s Winter Lights Festival. The season kicks off with special events, including S’more Lights and Trolley Rides (Nov. 18), when guests can make their own s’mores, take a trolley ride through the lights display and get a picture with Santa; Wine Under the Lights (Nov. 20), which includes wine tastings, live music and trolley rides; and a Leashes ‘n’ Lights pet night (Nov. 22), when furry friends are invited for a holiday romp.

TALE AS OLD AS TIME

40 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM BEST BETS good life

GAITHERSBURGOFCITYCOURTESYLIGHTSWINTERSILVER;AFICOURTESYFILMSILENTNATION;LIVECOURTESYBLACKLEWIS

Nov. 18 through Dec. 31

BY STEPHANIE SIEGEL BURKE

Nov. 19 through Jan. 15

Comedian and Silver Spring native Lewis Black is known for his humorous rants on current events, politics and life’s general absurdities. Starting in 1996, national audiences got a taste of his trademark yelling and finger-pointing on The Daily Show, with his recurring “Back in Black” segment. The Springbrook High School graduate returns to his hometown for two nights of stand-up comedy at the Fillmore. Expect to get an earful about this year’s presidential contest. 8 p.m. at The Fillmore Silver Spring, $49.50$69.50, www.fillmoresilverspring.com

MERRY AND BRIGHT

Make this year’s parties the best ever. From intimate dinners to exquisite galas, our chefs have created a lineup of delectable cuisine inspired by the splendor of the season. Come explore our delicious catering selections. Together, we’ll create a celebration you’ll absolutely love and always remember. We wish you and yours a magnificent holiday. 301.652.1515 ridgewells.com

Passion for celebration. holiday. Luscious

Round House Theatre, $36-$65, www.roundhousetheatre.org Dec. 31

NO STRINGS ATTACHED

Check out the New Year’s Eve Swing Dance at Glen Echo Park’s Spanish Ballroom. The Tom Cunningham Orchestra, which is known for playing original arrangements of the swing era’s most popular and enduring music, performs in the park’s restored art deco dance hall.

STRATHMOREOFCOURTESYBROWNJOIBERGER;STEPHANIEOFCOURTESYDEASTHEATRE;HOUSEROUNDOFCOURTESYBENNETMISS

Jane Austen fans wishing to revisit their favorite characters from Pride and Prejudice get a holiday treat in Miss Bennet Christmas at Pemberley at Round House Theatre in Bethesda. The new play by Lauren Gunderson and Margot Melcon is a sequel to Pride and Prejudice and picks up two years after the classic Austen story leaves off. Set in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Darcy, it centers on Mary Bennet, the bookish younger sister of Elizabeth, as jealousies, feuds and secrets swirl around invited and uninvited guests.

Looking for a New Year’s Eve celebration that welcomes all ages, yet still feels special, festive and sophisticated?

8 p.m. to midnight at the Spanish Ballroom at Glen Echo Park, $25, www.glenechopark.org

Demolishing Everything with Amazing Speed, a surreal show by puppeteer Dan Hurlin, features dozens of puppets in four plays based on scripts written by Italian futurist Fortunato Depero in 1917. Hurlin discovered the plays in 2013 and was interested in their political message. Futurism, one of 20th-century Europe’s fringe cultural movements, celebrated technology, speed, violence, change and destroying older forms of culture. Full of bizarre and nonsensical imagery, the plays, which have no dialogue, are harrowing and disturbing, but also playful. Although they feature puppets, they certainly aren’t for children. At the American Dance Institute in Rockville, the plays will be performed as four acts, each with puppetry, music and elements of video. 8 p.m. at American Dance Institute, $15-$30, www.americandance.org

Nov. 23 through Dec. 18

SWINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

Dec. 2-3

JAZZING UP A CLASSIC

Dec. 8

From traditional ballet to hip-hop stylings, there’s a variation on Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday ballet The Nutcracker for every taste. In a new twist, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is offering A “Swingin’ Nutcracker” à la Ellington at Strathmore. Inspired by Duke Ellington’s swing version of the original, jazz composer Paul Murtha created a two-act show that features Step Afrika!, a Washington, D.C., dance company that blends percussive stepping with traditional African dance. 8 p.m. at The Music Center at Strathmore, $12.50-$60, www.strathmore.org

42 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM BEST BETS good life

CHRISTMAS WITH THE DARCYS

A senior counsel in Joseph, Greenwald & Laake’s Family Law and Estates and rusts Groups, Eleanor A. Hunt represents clients in divorces, adoptions, child custody and visitation disputes, domestic violence proceedings, and child and spousal support matters, as well as estate planning, probate and guardianship matters. caring and cool-headed advisor, Eleanor helps her clients develop plans that achieve the best results for their individual cases, whether that’s going to trial or reaching a negotiated resolution. w.jgllaw.com

A principal in Joseph, Greenwald & Laake’s Estates and Trusts Group, Paul Riekhof has more than 20 years of experience in representing individuals, families, and businesses in matters including estate planning, probate, trust administration, estate tax planning, business planning, guardianships, and estate litigation matters.

THE Lady BEHIND THE CURTAIN

A principal in Joseph, Greenwald & Laake’s Estates and Trusts Group, Paul Riekhof has more

Communitytotacklegroundbreakingcases, and Characterthetobeafearlessadvocate.

District of Columbia | Virginia

Protecting Communityourtotacklegroundbreakingcases, and Characterthetobeafearlessadvocate.

“[This] is a brand new project that will research the music out of the North Carolina tobacco area, the whole Piedmont Blues style, with a phenomenal blues pianist who’s doing all of the research—his name is Gerald Clayton— and Lizz Wright, who is just one of the most outstanding jazz vocalists and blues vocalists on the scene right now.”

A senior counsel in Joseph, Greenwald & Laake’s Family Law and Estates and Trusts Groups, Eleanor A. Hunt represents clients in divorces, adoptions, child custody and visitation disputes, domestic violence proceedings, and child and spousal support matters, as well as estate planning, probate and guardianship matters. A caring and cool-headed advisor, Eleanor helps her clients develop plans that achieve the best results for their individual cases, whether that’s going to trial or reaching a negotiated resolution.

Everyone has a story to tell. Record a conversation and share your BACKSTORY.

“It’s a collaborative piece that blends ballet, jug gling and a live string quintet on stage, and it’s beautiful. These things that are being juggled in space become completely complementary to the ballet dancing that’s going on, so the movement is really fluid and the dancers are moving in and out of flying sculptures.”

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 43

4X4: EPHEMERAL ARCHITECTURES (JAN. 22)

Maryland | District of Columbia | Virginia| District of Columbia | Virginia & Laake’s Family Law and Estates and Trusts Groups, Eleanor A. Hunt represents clients in divorces, adoptions, child custody and visitation disputes, domestic violence proceedings, and child and spousal support matters, as well as estate planning, probate and guardianship matters. caring and cool-headed advisor, Eleanor helps her clients develop plans that achieve the best results for their individual cases, whether that’s going to trial or reaching a negotiated resolution.

ELEANOR A. HUNT ehunt@jgllaw.com

BACKSTORY MEDIA

We’ll preserve your memories.

www.backstorymedia.com301-525-5300EileenDougherty,founder

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS: ALL RISE (FEB. 24 AND 26)

Communitytotacklegroundbreakingcases,

Maryland | District of Columbia | Virginia

& Laake’s Estates and Trusts Group, Paul Riekhof has more than 20 years of experience in representing individuals, families, and businesses in matters including estate planning, probate, trust administration, estate tax planning, business planning, guardianships, and estate litigation matters.

Community | | Character Divorce can be gut wrenching and Divorcepainful.cases can be a lot less so with the support of someone who is thoughtful and level-headed, yet unrelenting when it comes to protecting your interests. If you are facing a divorce, choose an experienced, aggressive advocate. Rockville, MD

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SINCE BECOMING VICE PRESIDENT of programming at Strathmore in September 2015, Joi Brown has brought diverse acts to its three venues: the Music Center, the Mansion and Amp. A graduate of Thomas S. Wootton High School, Brown, 54, lives in Rockville. To decide what to put on Strathmore’s stages, Brown stays on top of fresh acts and finds the best way to present them. She also sees as many performances as possible. Over the summer, she traveled to festivals in Scotland and Rhode Island to scope out acts, some of which will head to the Music Center this season. We asked her which performances she’s most excited about in the 2016-2017 season:

Protecting our PAUL priekhof@jgllaw.com240-399-7899RIEKHOF

A senior counsel in Joseph, Greenwald & Laake’s Family Law and Estates and Trusts Groups, Eleanor A. Hunt represents clients in divorces, adoptions, child takesCommunity takesCommunity

Communitytotacklegroundbreakingcases, and Characterthetobeafearlessadvocate.Communitytotacklegroundbreakingcases, and Characterthetobeafearlessadvocate.

Protecting ourProtecting Communityourtotacklegroundbreakingcases, and Characterthetobeafearlessadvocate.

PIEDMONT BLUES (DEC. 10)

“[The performance] is a massive music piece that includes Jazz at Lincoln Center, Wynton, a 62-piece orchestra and a 150-person gospel choir. So that’s not something that will ever tour. It has to be created, and it takes a commitment from a venue and the resources they can pull together to make it happen.” n Tell us your story.

Nov. 6

44 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

COMPILED BY SANDRA FLEISHMAN CALENDAR arts & entertainment Owen Danoff, a recent contestant on The Voice, performs at The Mansion at Strathmore on Nov. 2.

Nov. 5 MUSIC FROM THE ENGLISH CATHEDRAL. The show features the National Philharmonic Chorale and guest artists performing coronation music by Handel, Tallis’ Spem in alium and new works. 8 p.m. $25-$100; children ages 7-17 attend for free with a paying adult. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www.strathmore.org.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERT SERIES. The lineup includes blues guitarist and singer James Mabry (2 p.m. Nov. 6); and the Rockville Singers (1:15 p.m. Dec. 4). Free. Glenview Mansion Conservatory, Rockville. 240-314-8660, www.rockvillemd. gov.

MUSIC Nov. 2 OWEN DANOFF. A homegrown talent, Danoff won top prize in the 2015 Bernard/ Ebb Songwriting Awards and came close this year on The Voice. 7:30 p.m. $17. The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www.strathmore.org. Nov. 3 JIMMY WEBB. The legendary songwriter has produced 40 years of hits, including “Wichita Lineman,” “By the Time I Get to Phoenix,” “Galveston,” “Up, Up and Away” and “MacArthur Park.” 8 p.m. $35-$45. AMP by Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301891-5100, www.strathmore.org.

Nov. 10

STRATHMOREOFCOURTESY good life

THE NUTCRACKER. Skipping the dance component, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, with soprano Nicole Cabell, presents Tchaikovsky’s overture and Act II of this holiday favorite, plus Ravel’s Scheherazade, and John Adams’ witty “The Chairman Dances,” a fox-trot imagined for Chairman Mao and his future wife. 3 p.m. $35-$99. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www. bsomusic.org. Nov. 6 and Dec. 4

MAHLER’S SYMPHONY NO. 6. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is led by conductor Marin Alsop, a noted Mahler authority. 8 p.m. $35-$99. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www.bsomusic.org Nov. 13 PACIFICA QUARTET. The internationally known string quartet performs works by Haydn, Shostakovich and Beethoven. 7:30 p.m. $30-$40. Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, Rockville. 301-348-3779, www.jccgw.org. Nov. 15 THE FRAY. The American rock band is best known for “Over My Head” and “How to Save a Life.” 8 p.m. $40. The Fillmore, Silver Spring. 301-960-9999, www. fillmoresilverspring.com Nov. 17 DOC SEVERINSEN AND FRIENDS: THE ART OF THE BIG BAND. The trumpeter led The Tonight Show Band for 30 years. Presented by the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. 8 p.m. $35-$99. The Music Center at

CHRISTMAS WITH CONSORT. The Washington Bach Consort celebrates the season with works by 17th- and 18thcentury German composers. 3 p.m.; pre-concert lecture at 2 p.m. $25-$69; $10 students 18 and younger. National Presbyterian Church, Washington, D.C., www.bachconsort.org Dec. 14 ZEMER CHAI. One of the nation’s leading Jewish choirs, Zemer Chai (“Living Song”) is dedicated to preserving the musical heritage of the Jewish people. 7:30 p.m. $20. The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5109, www. strathmore.org.

Dec. 4

Dec. 17 and 18 HANDEL’S MESSIAH. The National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale with special soloists. 8 p.m. Dec. 17; 3 p.m. Dec. 18. $25-$100; children ages 7-17 attend for free with a paying adult. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www. strathmore.org. Dec. 18 HOLIDAY CONCERT. An evening of holiday favorites by the Rockville Chorus. 7:30 p.m. Free. $5 donation requested. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-3148690. www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre Dec. 18 LAURYN HILL. In her new concert series, MLH Caravan: A Diaspora Calling!, the singer/songwriter/hip-hop icon continues to explore the culture and artistic beauty of the African diaspora. 7:30 p.m. $75. The Fillmore, Silver Spring. 301-960-9999, www.fillmoresilverspring.com Dec. 18 WINTER IS ICUMEN IN. The Rockville Concert Band offers ancient and modern music about snow, ice, sleigh rides and fantasies. 3 p.m. Free. $5 donation requested. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-314-8681, www.rockvillemd. gov/theatre

46 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, www.bsomusic.org Nov. 19

Dec. 2 CHOPTEETH. The 12-piece Afrofunk orchestra explores the common groove between West African beats and American popular music. 8 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.) $20-$30. AMP by Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www. ampbystrathmore.com

Dec. 3

Nov. 20 ALL THINGS NOVEMBER. Music by the Rockville Concert Band. 3 p.m. Free. $5 donation requested. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-314-8690, www. rockvillemd.gov/theatre.

Dec. 3

Nov. 19 WASHINGTON BALALAIKA: LOVE AND LAUGHTER. The orchestra plays traditional Russian folk instruments. 8 p.m. $25; $20 seniors, $15 students, 12 and under free. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240314-8690, www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre

good life

HANDEL’S MESSIAH. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s annual complete performance, led from the harpsichord by Edward Polochick. 7:30 p.m. $35-$99. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www.bsomusic.org

Nov. 20 BUTCH TRUCKS AND THE FREIGHT TRAIN BAND. A founding member of The Allman Brothers Band, drummer Butch Trucks takes the stage with accompanying band members. 8 p.m. $30 ($40 day of show). Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, Bethesda. 240-330-4500, bethesdabluesjazz.com.

STRATHMOREOFCOURTESY Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is on stage at Strathmore from Dec. 21 to 23.

BEETHOVEN WEEKEND: THE NINTH SYMPHONY. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra’s centennial year ends with this symphony, plus two special works commissioned for the anniversary. 8 p.m. $35-$99. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www. bsomusic.org Nov. 19 RENE IZQUIERDO. The Cuban guitarist performs for the John E. Marlow Guitar Series. 8 p.m. $14-$28; children ages 7-17 attend for free with a paying adult. Westmoreland Congregational Church, Bethesda. 301-799-4028, www. marlowguitar.org.

BERNARD/EBB SHOWCASE. The evening showcases the winners of the second annual Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards. 8 p.m. $23. AMP by Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www. ampbystrathmore.com

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ESTAMPAS PORTENAS TANGO COMPANY. The Buenos Aires-based company performs “Deseos…Stories of Longing and Desire Told Through Argentine Tango and Music.” 7:30 p.m. $28-$68. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, www.strathmore.org Dec. 3-11 THE NUTCRACKER. The Rockville Civic Ballet stages its annual performances. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 and 10; 2 p.m. Dec. 4 and 11. $17; $13 seniors and children 12 and younger. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-314-8690, www.rockvillemd. gov/theatre Dec. 21-23

MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER. This version features highly praised dancers, spectacular costumes and a 60-foot growing Christmas tree. 8 p.m. $28-$88. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, www.strathmore.org.

Nov. 18-19

48 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

good life DANCE

OKWUI OKPOKWASILI: POOR PEOPLE’S TV ROOM. The Bessie Award-winning artist’s individualistic work—a blend of Nigerian dance and her own contemporary sensibility—draws from two historic incidents in Nigeria: The Women’s War of 1929, a resistance movement against British colonial powers; and the Boko Haram kidnappings of more than 300 girls. 8 p.m. $15-$30. American Dance Institute, Rockville. 301-984-3003, www. americandance.org Nov. 28

THE NIGHT ALIVE. Conor McPherson’s play follows the relationships among a man, a young prostitute he helps, the man’s housemates and the prostitute’s exboyfriend. Presented by Quotidian Theatre Company. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays,

THEATER Through Nov. 19 CABARET. The Kensington Arts Theatre season kicks off with the 1998 revival version of the celebrated Kander & Ebb musical. 8:15 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. $17-$25. Kensington Town Hall, Kensington. 240-621-0528, www.katonline.org Through Nov. 20

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 49 2 p.m. Sundays. Also at 2 p.m. Nov. 19. $15-$30. The Writer’s Center, Bethesda. 301-816-1023, www.quotidiantheatre.org ART Through Nov. 6

SOUL SOIL. Mojdeh Rezaeipour’s artwork incorporates images from her native Iran—hints of Persian architecture, women in chadors—and childhood photos. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Free. The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5109, www. strathmore.org Nov. 2-26

PATTERNS, SHAPES, DREAMS…A VIBRANT CONVERSATION

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Through Nov. 6

TRACY FEATHERSTONE: FANTASTICAL LANDSCAPES. Works that intertwine mixed-media sculptures and real plants. Noon-4 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday; noon-8 p.m. Friday. Opening reception and artist talk 7-9 p.m.

. A group exhibition featuring Geoff Desobry and Kim Thorpe of Bethesda, Scott Sedar of Chevy Chase and Bowie’s Greta Chapin-McGill. Gallery hours are noon-6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Nov. 11. Free. Gallery B, Bethesda. 301-2156660, www.bethesda.org Nov. 6-23

RISE UP. Members of the National Association of Women Artists—in paintings, drawings and other media— examine the emotions that occur when people emerge from difficult periods in their lives. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Free. The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815109, www.strathmore.org.

MIXED MEDIA. Showcasing Meg Schaap, Theresa Martin, John Mors (sculpture) and Nancy McNamara. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Thursday. Opening reception 1:30-3:30 p.m. Nov. 6. Free. Glenview Mansion Art Gallery, Rockville. 240-3148660, www.rockvillemd.gov Nov. 19-Dec. 31 PERSPECTIVES: JENNIFER KAHN BARLOW, CAPITAL PALETTE. Known for her oil paintings of mouthwatering sweets— chocolate-dipped strawberries, colorful macarons and chocolate candies—the local artist shows tantalizing treats in area dining landmarks. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Wednesday; noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Opening reception 2 p.m. Nov. 20. Free. The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815109, www.strathmore.org Nov. 30-Dec. 31 GROUP EXHIBITION. Featuring Clare Winslow of Bethesda, Damon Arhos of Takoma Park and Kristine DeNinno of Silver Spring. Gallery hours are noon-6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Dec. 9. Free. Gallery B, Bethesda. 301-215-6660, www.bethesda.org. Nov. 30-Jan. 8

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM |

50 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM good life deployed overseas, such as powdered St. Nick. 9 a.m. $20; $15 for ages 12 and Dr. Paul Ross Doctor of Podiatric Medicine Bethesda Medical Building 8218 Wisconsin Avenue Suite P-14 Bethesda, Maryland 20814 301.660.8173 ww w.paulrossdpm.com Readers’ Pick, Best Podiatrist

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSES. Musical performances (plus Santa and Mrs. Claus on Dec. 11). 1-4 p.m. Free. Glenview Mansion, Rockville. 240-314-8660, www. rockvillemd.gov.

. Adventure Theatre MTC bases its version on the story by C.S. Lewis about stepping through a closet to the magical land of Narnia, but does the whole show with only two actors. Tuesdays through Fridays 10:30 a.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m., and 2 and 4:30 p.m.; Sundays 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Closed Dec. 25. $19.50. Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo. 301-634-2270, www.adventuretheatre-mtc.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 51 younger. Kentlands Mansion, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6425, www.gaithersburgmd.gov

GINGERBREAD HOUSE WORKSHOP. Fee includes a gingerbread house and decorations; cookies and drinks. Register through Rockville Recreation and Parks Fall Guide; course 56344. 10:30 a.m.1 p.m. $45 for Rockville residents; $50 nonresidents. Thomas Farm Community Center, Rockville. www.rockvillemd.gov. n To submit calendar items, or to see a complete listing, go to BethesdaMagazine.com. Grand Park Ave, N. Bethesda, MD Red Line–White Flint Metro www.AMPbyStrathmore.com

THE NUTCRACKER. A Washingtonarea puppet tradition for 26 years. Recommended for ages 3 and older. 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Thursdays and Fridays (except only at 11 a.m. Dec. 1-2 and 8-9), 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. No shows Dec. 24, 25 and 31. Check the website for extra shows the weeks of Dec. 19 and 26. $12. The Puppet Co. Playhouse, Glen Echo. 301634-5380, www.thepuppetco.org Dec. 2-31

NATURAL HOLIDAY CRAFTS. Use natural and recycled objects to make holiday crafts and ornaments. For ages 6-12; adult must accompany those under 8. Register through the Rockville Recreation and Parks Fall Guide; course 56409. $10 for Rockville residents; $13 nonresidents. Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville. 240-314-8770, www.rockvillemd.gov Dec. 10

Dec. 4

Nov. 5

Jimmy Webb {“Wichita Lineman,” “Galveston”} Thu, Nov 3 Paul Barrere & Fred Tackett {Little Feat’s guitarists} Fri, Nov 4 The Brubeck SierraQuartetBrothersThu,Nov10Hull {Mandolin wunderkind} Sat, Nov 12 Albert Cummings {Soulful blues} Sun, Nov 13 THE POP UPS {Kids pajama jam party} SUN, NOV 20

Dec. 11 and Dec. 18

RUFUS THE REDNOSED RAINDOG. In this original production by Blue Sky Puppet Theatre, a lost and lonely dog shows up at Santa’s workshop. Recommended for ages 4 and older. 3 p.m. $12. The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6394, city-facilities/arts-barngaithersburgmd.gov/about-gaithersburg/ Dec. 4

11810

HANSEL AND GRETEL. The famous story presented as a children’s opera, with puppets, lights, music and effects. Recommended for ages 4 and older. 11 a.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $12. The Puppet Co. Playhouse, Glen Echo. 301-634-5380, www.thepuppetco.org.

PETER AND THE WOLF. The Catholic University of America Chamber Orchestra performs Prokofiev’s classic children’s symphony and story. Stay after for an “instrument petting zoo.” 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. $12. The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6394, gaithersburg/city-facilities/arts-barngaithersburgmd.gov/aboutNov. 25-Dec. 30

SHREK THE MUSICAL. Based on the film, the Tony Award-winning musical features puppets and a fire-breathing dragon. Presented by Rockville Musical Theatre with Music Theatre International. 8 p.m. Nov. 4, 5, 11 and 12; 2 p.m. Nov. 6 and 13. $22; $20 seniors and students. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240314-8690, www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre.

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES Through Nov. 18

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM |

HOLIDAY FINE CRAFT SHOW. Browse works by area jewelers and artists. 1-4 p.m. Free. Glenview Mansion Art Gallery, Rockville. 240-314-8660, www.rockvillemd.gov

Nov. 4-13

Dec. 3 BSO: THE SNOWMAN. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra presents children’s activities, followed by a concert with the animated film based on Raymond Briggs’ book about a young boy’s magical friendship with a snowman. Activities, including an “instrument petting zoo” and performances by BSO youth musicians, start at 9:45 a.m.; concert at 4 p.m. $18$36 for concert. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, www.bsomusic.org Dec. 3, 7 and 10

Whether planning a family outing to one of Montgomery County’s many museums, parks, or historic sites – looking for unique museum gi shops to do your holiday shopping – or finding fun activities for your out-of-town guests, let HeritageMontgomery.org be your guide to buying local, learning local, and playing local!

Awarded 5 stars from DC Metro Theater Arts, MBT’s ballet features student and professional dancers, fabulous costumes, and beautiful scenery – including a growing Christmas tree, magical dancing dolls, marching toy soldiers, giant mice, a dazzling blizzard with dancing snowflakes, and a land of luscious sweets. Advance Tickets: $23 adults, $19 students/seniors, group discounts available. MBTDANCE.ORG OR 301-762-1757

HOLIDAYDISCOVERART HOLIDAYCLASSIC

HERITAGEMONTGOMERY.ORG OR 301-515-0753

The Lion, the tch and the Wardrobe Adventure Theatre MTC Dec. 2-31

‘Tis the season to cruise Montgomery County’s Heritage Area!

Experience this snowy, holiday classic featuring just a twoperson cast! Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy are sent to live in the countryside home. As Lucy explores the house, she discovers a secret portal to a magical world called Narnia. With an evil White Witch ruling the kingdom, can Lucy, her new friend Mr. Tumnus, and her family band together to save RecommendedNarnia? for all ages. Tickets are $19.50 each for ages 1 and up.

Fri., Dec. 2 & 9 at 7:30pm; Sat., Dec. 3 & 10 at 12pm & 4pm Sun., Dec. 4 & 11 at 1pm & 5pm

28th Annual oduction of The Nutcracker Metropolitan Ballet Theatre

Holiday Gallery and Studio Tour

Keep the sparkle in your holiday with original fine art and cra ! On the Countryside Artisans Holiday Gallery and Studio Tour, meet the artists and enjoy their work in the beautiful settings that inspire them every day! Choose from 15 galleries and studios representing 40+ fine visual, sculptural, and textile artists as you wind your way through scenic Montgomery, Frederick, and Howard counties on this free, self-guided, driving art tour. A brochure and map can be found online. Free. COUNTRYSIDEARTISANS.COM

Countryside Artisans of Maryland

ORADVENTURETHEATRE-MTC.ORG301-634-2270

Take a Spin around the County Heritage Montgomery

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Start your holiday season with this fun family tradition! Since 1989, audiences have been enchanted by MBT’s full-length traditional staging of The Nutcracker.

Two weekends; Fri.-Sun.; Dec. 2, 3, 4 & 9, 10, 11

Mary Poppins Olney Theatre Center Nov. 2-Jan. 1

militaryareTicketsChristmasshowsfromPoppinshowchildren,wizardly,you’ll“Supercalifragalisticexpialidocious”,iconicdelightinthestoryofawisenanny,twopreciousandthefamilysheteachestoloveeachother.MaryrunsonOlney’sMainstageNov.2-Jan.1,withadditionaltheweeksofThanksgiving,andNewYears.are$42-$80.Discountsavailableforchildren,seniors,andgroups.

WRITER.ORG/HOLIDAYBIRTHDAYBASH OR 301-654-8664

MAGIC FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Find all these events and more at CultureSpotMC.comMC. com MC.com EXPERIENCE NORDIC WINTER TRADITIONS

The Writer’s Center Sat., Dec. 17, 12-5pm

OROLNEYTHEATRE.ORG301-924-3400

Nutcracker eams

Akhmedova Ballet Academy (ABA)

Celebrate the holidays with one of the most beloved tales of all time! From the magical “Chim Chim Cher-ee” to the

The 34th Annual Christmas Revels: A Nordic nter Celebration Washington Revels Dec. 10-18, 2016 Matinee and evening shows GW Lisner Auditorium A journey into the wonders of Nordic winter traditions! Get into the holiday spirit with breathtaking dance, mysterious folk legends, haunting melodies, and joyful carols. Discover mythic drama from Finland, spirited Icelandic dance, a magical Swedish “bringing of the light” procession, a beloved fairy tale from Norway, the spectacular leaps of Norwegian dance, Danish toasts and carols, and much more. Revel with a cast of over 100, ages 8–85, in this festive holiday event. Tickets: $12-$60.

Holiday Birthday Bash and Book Fair

On this day 40 years ago, The Writer’s Center first opened its doors, and has been inspiring and supporting an extraordinary community of writers ever since. Celebrate with a day of special programming, readings, and a book fair. Workshop leaders and sta will be on hand to o er advice and help you select gi s for all of the readers in your life. Stay for birthday cake and a glass of holiday cheer! Free.

REVELSDC.ORG

children,“Supercalifragalisticexpialidocious”,andthefamilysheteaches

Dec. 16 at Montgomery7:30pmCollege

Cultural Arts Center 7995 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD ABA presents their magical annual “Nutcracker Dreams”- an entertaining evening for children and adults of all ages. ABA’s professional training program students will present the most famous dances from The Nutcracker in one act. The second act will showcase classical masterpieces, contemporary and character choreographies presented in their highest and most passionate forms. ABA is dedicated to providing the finest quality ballet training for young dancers. All of their graduates are with professional ballet companies. Tickets are available online through AkhmedovaBallet.org or at the box o ice. Adults: $20, Students and Seniors: $15, Group 10+: $10. AKHMEDOVABALLET.ORG OR FACEBOOK.COM/AKHMEDOVABALLET

ARTSONTHEGREEN.TICKETFLY.COM Dance for All Ages Dance Jan.-Jun.Exchange2017 Gather, move, and make with all levels at weekly classes, public conversations, creative research intensives, and a Winter Institute rooted in the belief that every body can dance.

Give the Gift of Glass Art Glass Center at Glen Echo 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD Gallery open every weekend Fri. 10am-2pm; Sat. 10am-4pm Sun. noon-4pm Visit the gallery for great holiday gi s— unique artwork, holiday décor, and jewelry—or choose from gi certificates for artwork and classes.

National Philharmonic esents

Explore the World of Documentary Filmmaking

John Rutter: Gloria and more! Handel’s Messiah Sat., Dec. 17 at 8pm; Sun., Dec. 18 at 3pm Danielle Talamantes, soprano; National Philharmonic Chorale

Docs In Progress Classes and screenings begin Jan. 2017 Learn how to make a documentary or improve your network and know-how if you are already working on one. Choose from classes in video production, editing, storytelling, and fundraising. Also enjoy screenings, filmmaker roundtables, and more. Check out their winter calendar to see what fulfills your filmmaking ambitions, interests, or curiosity.

NATIONALPHILHARMONIC.ORG OR 301-581-5100

ARTGLASSCENTERATGLENECHO.ORG

GLENECHOPARK.ORG/EXHIBITIONS

The Nutcracker Maryland Youth Ballet

DOCSINPROGRESS.ORG OR 301-789-2797

Glen Echo Park Nov. 19, 2016-Jan. 8, 2017 Sat. & Sun, 11am-6pm; Thur. & Fri., 10am-2 pm, through Dec. 30. Sat., Dec. 10th, 11am-8pm. Closed Nov. 24, Dec. 25 & Jan. 1. Browse and buy fine artworks for everyone on your holiday shopping list at Glen Echo Park’s annual Holiday Art Show & Sale in the Popcorn Gallery & Stone Tower Gallery.

Peter and the Wolf Arts Barn, Gaithersburg Nov. 5 at 2:30pm & 4:30pm The Catholic University of America Chamber Orchestra brings Sergei Prokofiev’s magical story of the adventurous Peter and his animal friends—memorably portrayed by di erent instruments—to life in this classic children’s symphony. The CUA orchestra is conducted by Simeone Tartaglione. Stay to enjoy an “instrument petting zoo.” Tickets: $12.

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4 JULY/AUGUST 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Stan Engebretson, conductor

MAGICAL DOLLS AND SNOWFLAKESDANCING

Stan Engebretson, conductor G. F. Handel: Coronation Anthem No. 1 (Zadok the Priest) Alistair Coleman: Of Radiance and Light (world premiere)

Holiday Art Show & Sale

Music From the English Cathedral Sat., Nov. 5 at 8pm National Philharmonic Chorale

Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center Montgomery College Rockville Campus 51 Mannakee St. Fri., Dec. 16 at 7pm; Sat., Dec. 17 at 1pm & 5pm Sun., Dec. 18 at 1pm & 5pm; Fri., Dec. 23 at 7pm Mon., Dec. 26 at 1pm & 5pm; Tues., Dec. 27, at 1pm & 5pm Magical dolls, dancing snowflakes, and an enchanting kingdom of sweets return to the stage this holiday season for Maryland Youth Ballet’s award winning production of The Nutcracker. Celebrate the 27th season of the full-length classic choreographed by Artistic Director, Michelle Lees. Voted both Outstanding Production in Classical Dance and Outstanding Youth Performance by Dance Metro DC Awards, Lees’ version of the holiday classic is a metropolitan area family favorite. Tickets starting at $26. MARYLANDYOUTHBALLET.ORG OR 301-608-2232

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DANCEEXCHANGE.ORG OR 301-270-6700

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 55 people. politics. current events. books. columns.

How a local trio of acrobatic gymnasts won gold BY DINA ELBOGHDADY FOR TWO YEARS, a trio of acrobatic gymnasts from Maryland set their sights on the highest level of competition in their sport, regularly practicing together for four hours a day, six days a week at a gym in Rockville as they prepared for this year’s world championships in China. In acrobatic gymnastics, athletes perform with at least one partner, fusing acrobatics with music and dance, Cirque du Soleil style. They do not perform on vaults, bars or beams like their higher-profile “artistic” gymnastics peers. Cameron Jones, 18, Sophia Handel, 18, and Sara Mercer, 14, had only each other as they tumbled, banter

BODIES IN MOTION

MERCERSARAANDJONESCAMERONHANDEL,SOPHIAOFCOURTESYPHOTO

Top to bottom: Sara Mercer, Sophia Handel and Cameron Jones compete at the Acrobatic Pat Wade Classic in Stoke-on-Trent, England.

Left to right: Sara, Cameron and Sophia at the USA Gymnastics Championship in Providence, Rhode Island

“We talk to each other about every thing. Boy problems. School problems. Stress,” says Cameron, who lives in Potomac. “It doesn’t make sense to go to anybody else because we know each otherButbest.”teenagers grow, which means they can’t always hang on to their role in a pair or a trio. The “top” partner—typi cally the youngest, the one small enough to be tossed around or stacked high above her teammates—inevitably out grows the “base” partners beneath her. It’s not unusual in this sport to transition from top to base over time, but doing so usually requires changing partners.

The most accomplished acrobatic gymnasts strive to compete in the Acrobatic Gymnastics World Championships, widely considered the Olympics of this nonOlympic sport. The championships take place on even-numbered years, so athletes tend to form their partnerships and choreograph their routines roughly two years in advance of each world event, tweaking their performances at several competitions along the Cameronway. and Sara competed as a pair at the 2014 World Championships in France, but did not qualify for the final round. Looking ahead to 2016, they started strategizing.

The girls headed to California soon after to work with a choreographer. In acrobatic gymnastics, performances tell a story. Points are earned for the ath letes’ strength and flexibility, as well as for artistry, musicality and the difficulty of the Theroutine.trioalso had fun along the way. They performed last year on America’s Got Talent and at the U.S. Olympic trials for women’s gymnastics in San Jose, Cal ifornia, where they met legendary U.S. gymnast Simone Biles. At the world championships in China in March, they ranked fourth out of 28 trios within the 12 to 18 age group, just one-tenth of a point shy of the bronze medal. Three months later, they were off to the USA Gymnastics Championship in Providence, Rhode Island, their sport’s big national competition. They opened with a slow routine to the tune of “Bella’s Lul laby” from the sound track of the movie Twilight. The trio started in an inter twined pose, then repeatedly separated and regrouped into a series of pyramids. Ultimately, they ended up apart. “As we were walking off the floor, all of us started to cry,” Cameron says. “Once we got off the floor we hugged and started bawling. We were super proud of ourselves, and we knew it was our last time together. We were feeling everything.” They ended up winning the gold for Junior Elite trios in the 13 to 19 ageCamerongroup. and Sophia are now training for the next world event—without Sara.

Cameron, who was accepted by Louisi ana State University after graduating from Walt Whitman High School this year, decided to stay put and enroll at Mont gomery College so she could continue training. Sophia, a senior, is continuing to be home schooled, an arrangement that helps her better manage her time. Sara started her freshman year at Quince Orchard High School in Gaith ersburg this fall, where she made the varsity cross-country team. She’s sad about ending her acrobatics career, but says she’s happy she left on a high note. “We got our highest scores ever,” Sara says. “We had fallen down doing this routine at nationals in 2015. We redeemed ourselves, so I focus on that more than the sadness.” n

With that in mind, growing together and apart emerged as a central theme in one of the trio’s key routines heading into the championships, says Juli Eicher, the girls’ coach at Xtreme Acro in Rock ville. “I told them to pretend like it’s the last time they’ll be performing together,” Eicher says. “That’s how they’ve per formed it for two years, and this year they did it knowing it was their end.”

“We knew that soon I’d be too tall for us to be in a pair,” says Sara, a Darnestown resident. “At first, we didn’t know what to do.”Cameron and Sara had competed against Sophia at several events, including in France. After that competition, Sara’s mother approached Sophia’s par ents about teaming up. In August 2014, the girls formed a trio, with Sophia as the“It“middle.”wasalittle intimidating because they were both extremely talented and I didn’t know if I could live up to their expectations,” says Sophia, who lives in Annapolis. “But in our first practice together, we were all laughing and I knew it would work out.”

56 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM banter tossed and twisted their way into body pyramids. On and off the floor, the teens instinctively supported one another.

MERCERSARAANDJONESCAMERONHANDEL,SOPHIAOFCOURTESYPHOTO

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58 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM SMALLWOODAMANDABYINFOGRAPHICS banter BY DAVID FREY Source: Montgomery County Public Libraries LIBRARIES BY THE NUMBERS The dawn of the Internet came with lots of fears that public libraries would die, but the Montgomery County Public Libraries (MCPL) system is alive and well. In the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2015, there was a 3 percent increase in visitors to the county’s libraries—that’s 4.6 million people who came for story time, language conversation clubs and other services, including borrowing books. Here’s a look at MCPL by the numbers. FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING Top 5 Borrowed Books in Fiscal Year 2016 1. All the Light We Cannot See, Anthony Doerr 2. The Girl on the Train, Paula Hawkins 3. Go Set a Watchman, Harper Lee 4. A Spool of Blue Thread, Anne Tyler 5. Gray Mountain, John Grisham Top 5 Borrowed Children’s Books in Fiscal Year 2016 1. Diar y of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul, Jeff Kinney 2. Big Nate: In the Zone, Lincoln Peirce 3. Tales from a Not-So-Glam TV Star, Rachel Renée Russell 4. Thea Stilton and the Great Tulip Heist, Thea Stilton 5. The Berenstain Bear s: Safe and Sound, Jan and Mike Berenstain Q: WHERE IS THE ISLAND IN THE MADONNA SONG “LA ISLA BONITA”? Most memorable question fielded by librarian Mark Santoro at the Davis Library in Bethesda A: It’s not a real island. $44,753 Starting salary for a librarian $40.7 million MCPL budget for fiscal year ending June 30, 2016 $41.2 million: Cost of the new Silver Spring library, which opened in 2015 1893: Kensington’sYearNoyes Library for Young Children opened 193 Number librariansof Number of books checked out in fiscal year 2015 Number of information questions answered by librarians in fiscal year 2015 Number branchesof21 Number of 3-D printers in the system—Silver Spring, Kensington Park, Long Branch and Twinbrook each have one 4 9.9 million 1.8 million ? ?? ??? ?

Timothy Kane Branch 301-279-6400Manager Rockville 702 King Farm Blvd. Suite Rockville,500 MD 20850

Robert Meredith Central Maryland Complex Manager 301-657-6300

Frederick 30 West Patrick Street Suite Frederick,700 MD 21701

CENTRAL MARYLAND COMPLEX Bethesda 7272 Wisconsin Avenue Suite Bethesda,400 MD 20814

Planning your family’s future is too important to treat lightly. That’s why you should evaluate a Financial Advisor based on what they can do for their clients. The guidance they provide, the insight they’re equipped with, the level of service and excellence they offer. So contact us and find out how we can help you prepare for the years ahead. Bethesda 7500 Old Georgetown Road 10th Bethesda,FloorMD 20814

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LONG & FOSTER | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE sells more luxury real estate than the next two competitors combined! #1 in the DC Capital Region $1 Million+ Information based on data supplied by MRIS and its member Association(s) of REALTORS®, who are not responsible for its accuracy. Does not reﬂect all activity in the marketplace. September 1, 2015 – August 31, 2016. Percentages are rounded to the nearest whole number. Information contained in this report is deemed reliable but not guaranteed, should be independently veriﬁed, and does not constitute an opinion of MRIS or Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. ©2016 All rights reserved. CHRISTIE’S|FOSTER&LONG 1,603 Washington PropertiesFine Sotheby’sTTR 844 693

Discovery to start Half Yard Produc tions, a Bethesda-based production company where they now create more than 100 hours of nonfiction program ming annually for such networks as TLC, Animal Planet and the National Geographic Channel. Their shows have included Say Yes to the Dress, The Real Housewives of D.C., Hillbilly Handfishin’ and Junkyard Empire. Gallagher and Greensfelder both attended college in New Haven, Con necticut—Gallagher at Southern Conne cticut State University and Greensfelder at Yale—but didn’t meet until they worked together at Discovery.

62 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM banter JAFFEDEBORAHBYPHOTOS

Ten years later, in 2006, both left LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION

“We went to the same bar there, just not at the same time,” Gallagher says. Their regular drink was a “half yard,” a beer served in a special tall, thin glass. Today, they sit across from each other at a shared desk in their Fairmont Avenue headquarters, which houses about half of the company’s 100 employees; the others work in New York. As producers, pro grammers and casting directors came and went in the office hallways, we talked about casting snafus, where show ideas come from, and why The Real Housewives of D.C. sparked their only fight.

Behind the scenes of a reality TV production company

“Our first reality show together was about a Chinese nature preserve where a panda bit the penis off an Australian journal ist,” says Sean Gallagher. Gallagher, now 49, was a vice president of development at Discovery Channel at the time, and was asked to oversee the show on Abby Greensfelder’s first day as an intern there.

Sean Gallagher, left, and Abby Greensfelder in their offices at Half ProductionsYard

IT WAS AN INAUSPICIOUS beginning.

BY JAMES MICHAEL CAUSEY

“He asked if I could write,” says Greens felder, now 43. She ended up rewriting the Australian script for American audi ences, and after her internship ended, she was hired on full time.

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How has the reality TV market changed?

Are you and your partner arguing more than usual? Has it been a while since you felt connected and Areintimate?youworried the kids are around too much conflict?

Abby: I was headed on a vacation the day before Thanksgiving, and The Wash ington Post always prints the names of people who were at a state dinner. I’m going down the list and I don’t see them. I thought maybe they just printed it wrong. The next day I get a call from someone inside the White House. I called Sean and said, ‘This is blowing up.’ I had the head of [Bravo] on a conference call with me on Thanksgiving Day.

Then we thought about who cleans up roadkill and these other crazy jobs. That was the beginning of Dirty Jobs. I met a guy named Andy Cohen on a camping trip with my daughter. The girls go to bed, and the guys stay up all night. Talking to Andy, who’s telling me what he does, like overseeing scrapping ships, I thought, ‘Wow, that ought to be a show.’ That one became Junkyard Empire.

Abby: Back when we started, there was a small set of cable channels. Now there’s 500. They’re all doing 500 hours a year of programming. It’s hard to cut through. Not everybody’s watching live TV. To have a hit show now is a total outlier. [The networks] are cutting costs, they’re cut ting staff, and margins are getting smaller. There’s not the kind of creative autonomy that we had. [They’d] never let an intern go off and come up with ideas to make shows.

Abby: A show called Sacred Steel on Dis covery. It’s about a [motorcycle] shop in Los Angeles. The place where you build bikes is where you want to hang out. It’s kind of like a dude space…we’re making a Cheers for bike shops. n

Sean: I said, ‘Relax, Abby, relax.’

Sean: I was a big cyclist back in the day. Riding with my buddies, we would come across these nasty [portable toilets]. We’d ask each other, ‘Who has to clean those?’

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 63

Sean: I think sometimes it might be a barrier that we’re here. I love going to LA, but I just like coming home. I don’t like New York. Every time I go, I feel like, ‘Oh my god, get me out of here.’ I love it here. My wife and I moved here 25 years ago, and we kept saying we’d stay three years and then move back to Boston. I live in Rockville, and I think [this area] is a good place to raise a family.

Let’s talk about Michaele and Tareq Salahi on The Real Housewives of D.C. In 2009, they crashed a White House state dinner that they said they had been invited to and shook hands with President Obama. The breach resulted in Secret Service investiga tions and inspired an opening skit on Saturday Night Live. When did you find out the scandal was exploding?

repairing and relationshipsenriching

Abby: We cast a bunch of brides in Say Yes to the Dress. One of them had this medical issue, and she was finally mar rying this man and she was going to get surgery and couldn’t have children. It was a very moving story. We helped them have their wedding, and Kleinfeld [the wedding dress shop] gives her this dress and there’s all this surprise. The show airs and it’s a great story. Then we get an email saying, ‘This woman is a fraud…she’s still married to my dad.’ It turned out the woman was actually [still] married in another state. We called in a private investigator and found out she’d actually been married more than twice.

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The casting process has to be challenging. Can you share any that went awry?

What’s next?

Is it ever a disadvantage having your headquarters in Bethesda?

Abby: Never tell a woman to relax. I said to Sean, ‘I need you to engage.’ We lawyered up. We got a crisis communica tion person. The media was frothing at the mouth. We had to release a statement to the press on Thanksgiving Day. [Bravo ultimately canceled the show because of the incident.]

How do you come up with show ideas?