Bethesda Magazine: November-December 2018

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November/December 2018 | Volume 15 Issue 6

contents

ON THE COVER Medical marijuana dispensaries are sprouting up all over the Bethesda area. Who’s using them—and will full legalization be next?

BY APRIL WITT

14 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

COVER IMAGE: Adobe Stock/johny87

PHOTO BY APRIL WITT

130 A New Leaf

contents P. 187

Guide to Giving

More than 60 ways to make a difference in our community

P. 180

Philanthropist of the Year Linda Youngentob

FEATURES Potomac native Randi Fishman was 28 when she found out she had breast cancer. After treatment and then a recurrence, doctors advised her not to get pregnant. That’s when her sister offered to carry a baby for her.

BY DINA ELBOGHDADY

154 Bethesda Interview The three founders of CAVA restaurants talk about growing up Greek, mistakes they’ve made, and the pressures of success

BY CAROLE SUGARMAN

164 Going Green

172 Survivor

From a company that’s boosting energy efficiency in buildings to the creators of an app that checks the health of streams, here are the winners of this year’s Bethesda Magazine Green Awards, held in partnership with Bethesda Green

After decades of silence about her time in Poland’s Lodz ghetto during the Holocaust, a Montgomery County woman experienced the transformative power of speaking unspeakable truths

BY CARALEE ADAMS

16 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

BY CHRISTINE KOUBEK

180 Mission to Mentor Philanthropist of the Year Linda Youngentob helps students in high school and college find a path to success

BY CARALEE ADAMS

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

144 Family Ties

W E ’ L L T R E AT YOU LIKE F A M I LY. . .

M AY B E E V E N BETTER

WE SELL THE MOST IMPORTANT HOME. YOURS. TM MD 301.463.7800 | DC 202.774.9800 | VA 703.270.0011 WYDLERBROTHERS.COM

contents

DEPARTMENTS 22 | TO OUR READERS

P. 286

24 | CONTRIBUTORS

good life

213

art. festivals. culture. day trips. hidden gems.

34 | BEST BETS Can’t-miss arts events

281

Where to go, what to see

banter

282 | REVIEW

Holiday gifts for everyone on your list

Port-au-Prince Authentic Haitian Cuisine is a hit in Silver Spring

A young couple built a new home in Chevy Chase for their growing family

286 | TABLE TALK

225 | DESIGNED FOR FITNESS

290 | DINING GUIDE

What’s happening on the local food scene

Inside three local home gyms

people. politics. books. columns.

232 | HOME SALES BY THE NUMBERS

52 | FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING Brookside’s Garden of Lights by the numbers

247

News you may have missed

60 | BOOK REPORT New books by local authors, literary events and more

health

A pediatric dentist on preventing cavities, helping with brushing, and getting anxious kids in the door

250 | FOR MELITTA

BY APRIL WITT

68 | HOMETOWN

258 | THE DOCTOR’S HERE

From precut fruit to robotic vacuums, people find all kinds of ways to save time

For Leon Rodriguez, former head of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, a trip to Cuba provided the chance to connect with his family’s history

BY STEVE ROBERTS

etc.

Cozy statement sweaters for winter, plus a new store for “clean” skin-care products in Bethesda

Laurence Carter lost his wife to cervical cancer three years ago. Now the Britishborn Bethesda resident is walking 3,500 miles along the coast of England and Wales to raise awareness about the disease that took her life.

64 | SUBURBANOLOGY

315

316 | SHOP TALK

248 | BE WELL

56 | QUICK TAKES

Some local physicians don’t have an office—they spend their days making house calls

266 | WELLNESS CALENDAR

320 | WEDDINGS A Bethesda couple’s Halloween-themed wedding included Harry Potter wands and a guest dressed as a chicken

324 | GET AWAY Your cheat sheet for a weekend away

326 | DRIVING RANGE From Colonial traditions to modern-day amusements, Williamsburg is brimming with holiday cheer

342 | PETS Birthday parties aren’t just for people

343 | FLASHBACK How vines from a Clarksburg garden helped establish America’s fledgling wine industry

344 | OUTTAKES

AD SECTIONS PROFILES: TEST OF TIME 71

dine

214 | HOUSE APPROPRIATIONS 216 | FRESH START

38 | ARTS CALENDAR

49

home

LONG & FOSTER AD SECTION 208

SHOWCASE: KITCHEN & BATH 238

18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

PROFILES: SENIOR SERVICES 269

PROFILES: SALONS & SPAS 308

PRIVATE SCHOOL AD SECTION 332

PHOTO BY DEB LINDSEY

31

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❱❱ 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 ARCHIVES Explore past issues and stories using our searchable archives.

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❱❱ STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Twitter: @Bethesda_Mag Find us at facebook.com/ BethesdaMag Follow us on Instagram: @bethesdamag Find us on YouTube 20 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

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In good company.

Dean Smith

Craig Pernick

Christopher Lee

Paula Landau

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to our readers

ON VACATION IN COLORADO this past summer, my wife, Susan, and I went into a marijuana dispensary in Denver to see what it was like. (Hold the sarcastic comments, please, we really were just curious.) I was amazed by the selection and the seemingly countless ways people can get high these days. There were infused beverages, gummies, frozen treats and some wonderful product names.

Among my favorites: the “TasteBudz” line of edibles and “Blissful Blueberry Chill Pills” hard candy.

Two months later I visited another dispensary, but this one wasn’t in the Mile High City—it was in downtown Bethesda, less than a block from my office. I toured Health for Life Bethesda on Fairmont Avenue in late August, a few days before it opened. While the “product” wasn’t on display yet, the security clearances required for entrance left little doubt that this was no ordinary retail store.

Maryland, like 30 other states and Washington, D.C., now permits the sale of medicinal cannabis. Since Dec. 1, 2017, when the law went into effect, about 20 dispensaries have opened in Montgomery County or will in the near future. And more than 8,000 county residents have been certified to buy medical pot legally.

In this issue’s cover story, “A New Leaf,” writer April Witt examines how consumers and the medical establishment are adjusting to the new reality of legal medicinal weed.

“Patients have been much faster than doctors to embrace medical marijuana,” Witt says. “Many doctors are concerned about the lack of research proving the efficacy.”

IN THE FIRST YEAR or two after we launched Bethesda Magazine in 2004, Susan and I would often go to dinner at Tel Aviv Café on Cordell Avenue in Bethesda (the current site of Barrel + Crow). While there, we would talk with the amiable chef, Dimitri Moshovitis.

He had time to talk because the restaurant had so few customers, which explains why it didn’t last for long.

The closing of Tel Aviv Café turned out to be a very good thing for Moshovitis—and for diners in the Washington area and, increasingly, around the country. In 2006, Moshovitis and boyhood pals Ted Xenohristos and Ike Grigoropoulos opened CAVA Mezze, a Mediterranean restaurant in Rockville. Today, CAVA Group Inc. operates five full-service restaurants and more than 60 fast-casual eateries,

with locations as far flung as California and Texas, and sells dips and spreads in more than 250 Whole Foods stores and specialty markets.

In August, CAVA announced plans to acquire Zoës Kitchen, a chain of more than 250 fast-casual restaurants in 20 states, for about $300 million. Shortly after the announcement, writer Carole Sugarman interviewed the three CAVA owners at their first fast-casual CAVA in Bethesda about their childhoods, humble beginnings in the restaurant business and how their success has affected them.

Sugarman’s interview begins on page 154.

EVERY YEAR IN THE November/ December issue we run a photo of our staff. We do so to recognize the people who, more than anyone, are responsible for whatever success we have had. I am fortunate and grateful to work with such a wonderful and talented group.

STEVE HULL Editor & Publisher

Back row, from left: Dan Schere, Cindy Rich, Sylvia Silver, Glynis Kazanjian, Kathleen Neary, Amélie Ward, Leigh McDonald, Elizabeth Leasure, Jill Trone, Julie Rasicot. Front row, from left: Meghan Murphy, Jenny Fischer, Onecia Ribeiro, Elly Stauffer, Susan Hull, Penny Skarupa, Arlis Dellapa, Jennifer Farkas.

Not pictured: Laura Goode, Caitlynn Peetz, LuAnne Spurrell.

22 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

A NEW LEAF

Whatever disagreement remains about medical marijuana, the issue will probably be moot in the nottoo-distant future. As contributing editor Lou Peck points out in a sidebar to Witt’s story, full legalization in Maryland is likely in the next five years.

Our coverage begins on page 130.

We live here. We work here.

We are Kensington Real Estate.

#WeAreKensington | WeLoveKensington.com Mary Beth Taylor | Mark Hudson | Kathy Byars | Meghan Ellis | Ashley Fitzgerald Patty Rhyne-Kirsch | Lauren Tawil | Sabina Emerson | Katie Breslin Kensington 3804 Howard Avenue, Kensington, MD 20895 I Tel. 301.979.7270 I www.McEnearney.com

contributors

SYLVIA GASHI-SILVER

CARALEE ADAMS

APRIL WITT

LIVES IN: Ashburn, Virginia

LIVES IN: Bethesda

LIVES IN: Bethesda

IN THIS ISSUE: Designed the cover story on medical cannabis, the Philanthropist of the Year and Green Awards features, and others.

IN THIS ISSUE: Writes about Philanthropist of the Year Linda Youngentob, the Green Awards winners, three unique home gyms, Jocelyn Pierce’s 600-mile endurance horse race in Mongolia, an education program run by BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life), MobileMed clinics for Montgomery County residents and new books by local authors.

IN THIS ISSUE: Writes the “Suburbanology” column and the cover story about medical cannabis. “When the magazine asked me to do this story, I had no opinion on Maryland’s legalization of medical cannabis. There are, of course, abuses in any system. Still, reporting this story convinced me that medical cannabis is easing many people’s suffering enormously.”

HOW SHE GOT HER START: Working as an assistant art director for Chris Whittle at Whittle Communications when he co-owned Esquire magazine and ran a media company in Knoxville, Tennessee.

“I worked on Connecticut’s Finest magazine and got to work with big-name photographers, including Mary Ellen Mark and Mark Seliger.”

CLAIM TO FAME: “I was at a Girl Scout camp in Thurmont, Maryland, for a couple of weeks in July 1973. [President Richard] Nixon’s motorcade pulled up one day while we were hiking along the road in front of the Camp David entrance. The media piled out of a station wagon. The photographers snapped my photo standing next to Nixon.

I appeared in Time magazine and on the front page of The Washington Post.”

WHAT SHE DOES: As a freelance writer, she works for a variety of publications and enjoys learning new things with each assignment. “Being a reporter gives me an excuse to ask questions and be curious.”

ON LIVING HERE: Nearly 20 years ago, she and her husband decided to make Bethesda their home. In less than a week they bought a house in the Wood Acres neighborhood—and went on to love raising their three kids there and sending them to Montgomery County public schools. “I like that this is a place where people are thinkers and care about each other—as well as care about the larger community.”

24 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

WHAT SHE DOES: She’s a veteran journalist who has twice been a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. She specializes in reporting, writing and photographing longform stories.

WORST IDEA FOR A HONEYMOON: “I love adventure. I suggested honeymooning in a Bedouin encampment in the desert beyond Marrakesh, Morocco. My diplomatic husband-to-be gulped and said, ‘Uh, OK, if you think that would make a good honeymoon.’ We went to Florence, Italy, and stayed in a lovely room with a view of a garden. Great choice.”

WEIRDEST COMBINATION OF JOBS HELD SIMULTANEOUSLY: “When I was an investigative reporter for the Miami Herald, I was also moonlighting as one of the newspaper’s two fine-dining critics.”

COURTESY PHOTOS

WHAT SHE DOES: Contributing art director at Bethesda Magazine.

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EDITORIAL EDITOR

Steve Hull SENIOR EDITOR

Cindy Rich ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kathleen Seiler Neary CONSULTING ART DIRECTOR

Sylvia Gashi-Silver DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR

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Caralee Adams, Jennifer Barger, Stephanie Siegel Burke, James Michael Causey, Dina ElBoghdady, Margaret Engel, David Frey, Michael S. Gerber, Steve Goldstein, Janelle Harris, Melanie D.G. Kaplan, Christine Koubek, Laurie McClellan, Melanie Padgett Powers, Amy Reinink, Steve Roberts, Charlotte Safavi, Jennifer Sergent, Mark Walston, Carolyn Weber, Adrienne Wichard-Edds, April Witt PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

Anne Bentley, Skip Brown, Goodloe Byron, Erick Gibson, Stacy Zarin Goldberg, Lisa Helfert, Darren Higgins, Alice Kresse, Deb Lindsey, Josh Loock, Liz Lynch, Amanda Smallwood, Mary Ann Smith, Michael Ventura, April Witt Bethesda Magazine is published six times a year by Kohanza Media Ventures, LLC. © 2009-2018 Letters to the editor: Please send letters (with your name, the town you live in and your daytime phone number) to letters@bethesdamagazine.com.

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Bethesda Magazine 7768 Woodmont Ave., #204, Bethesda, MD 20814 Phone: 301-718-7787/ Fax: 301-718-1875 BethesdaMagazine.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

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CELEBRATE WITH QUALITY, COMFORT, AND STYLE

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I can’t imagine living anywhere else.

I lived in the same house in Wynnewood, PA for 40 years. My son and his family live in Silver Spring and it’s wonderful to see them more often. However, there’s great peace of mind in being independent and not relying on him.

When I first visited, I liked the floor plan of the apartment, the view of Gingerville Creek, the size of the community, the facilities, and the many amenities. Also, my kayak is here and my sailboat is 30 minutes away at our family cottage on the West River.

A typical day at Ginger Cove consists of personal pursuits, chairing various committees, interviewing new residents, and socializing with friends before having dinner. Sometimes, there’s music or a lecture. I’m on the computer every day to keep up with current events and stay in touch with friends. I also enjoy the fitness classes.

Exercising alone can be hard, but the classes makes it fun. Water aerobics is a godsend. We have an excellent teacher who varies our exercises while testing our strength, flexibility, balance, stamina, cardio conditioning and muscular endurance. I love keeping fit while having a great time in the process.

If I could do it again, I would have moved in sooner. There are so many activities and programs to take advantage of. If you’re new to the area, Ginger Cove is full of interesting people, who couldn’t be friendlier. I didn’t know anyone when I moved in. Now, I can’t imagine living anywhere else.

- Martha, resident since 2007

To discover Ginger Cove, please call Joan Williams at 410-266-7300. gingercove.com • 4000 River Crescent Drive • Annapolis, MD Ginger Cove is an equal housing opportunity provider.

art. festivals. culture. day trips. hidden gems.

good life

COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

A TRIBUTE IN LIGHTS HOLIDAY DISPLAYS TEND TO feature twinkling candy canes, reindeer and other symbols of cheer. Offering a more solemn experience, a one-night candlelit event at a famous Civil War battlefield makes a powerful statement.

The site of the bloodiest one-day battle in U.S. history, Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Maryland, draws about 2,000 to 3,000 cars of visitors to its annual Memorial Illumination on the first Saturday in December. Roughly 23,000 luminaries are lit—“one for each soldier killed, wounded or missing.”

The illumination began in 1988 to

commemorate the 1862 Union victory that stopped Gen. Robert E. Lee and the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia’s first invasion into the North. Five days later, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

“What strikes me about this event, and I’ve seen it now for 27 years, is the incredible loss of life,” says Keith Snyder, the chief of interpretation for Antietam. “You throw around the number 23,000 and it means nothing to you until you see all those candles along a 5-mile route—it’s special.”

Antietam National Battlefield, which is roughly 60 miles from Bethesda, closes its visitor center at 3 p.m. on the day of the illumination. Plan ahead: The line of cars to enter the event can be up to two hours long.

Memorial Illumination at Antietam National Battlefield, Dec. 1, 6 p.m. to midnight, free. 5831 Dunker Church Road, Sharpsburg, Maryland, 301-432-5124, nps.gov/anti/planyourvisit/luminary.htm.

—Shourjya Mookerjee

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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good life

TEA TIME

Afternoon tea is typically held two to three times a week, from mid-September through the third week of December and from February through July.

1 p.m. $25-$29. Reservations required.

The Mansion at Strathmore, 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, 301581-5108, strathmore.org.

—Kelly Sankowski

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

DURING AFTERNOON TEAS inside The Mansion at Strathmore, local musicians perform while guests enjoy a break from the stresses of daily life.

On the 15 to 17 tables in the room are flowers for decoration, milk and sugar for tea, and strawberry preserves and homemade Devonshire cream for scones. Volunteer “tea ladies” in white lace aprons pour unlimited amounts of Strathmore’s special tea blend.

Guests drink out of bone china, which is carefully arranged to fit the color scheme of each table.

Throughout the year, Strathmore hosts various specialty teas, such as a Chocolate Tea that includes samples of chocolate truffles, and a familyfriendly Mrs. Claus Tea, scheduled this year for Dec. 15. The menu depends on the theme but generally includes a light lunch, dessert, and the option to buy a mimosa or a glass of Champagne, port or sherry. Mary Mendoza Godbout, Strathmore’s tearoom manager, says she hopes the experience is an escape, “a step back in time,” from the hospitality to the old-timey décor.

“Even though it is a big mansion, they still feel like it is someone’s home,” she says.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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good life

BEST BETS

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

BY STEPHANIE SIEGEL BURKE

Nov. 3

WANDA WOMAN If you’ve watched TV or seen movies over the past 20 years, it’s likely you’ve come across Wanda Sykes. The comedian, actress and writer has worked either behind the scenes or in front of the camera on a variety of TV shows, including Blackish, Broad City, Curb Your Enthusiasm, House of Lies, Will & Grace and The Chris Rock Show, for which she won an Emmy in 1999. She’s also acted in dozens of movies and has voiced characters in many animated films and TV shows. But Sykes got her start in stand-up in Washington, D.C., and she’s been making people laugh for decades with her sharp, humorous take on race, family life and politics. She’ll be sharing more of those observations when she comes to North Bethesda.

7:30 p.m., $35-$115, The Music Center at Strathmore, strathmore.org

IF THE SHOE FITS In Imagination Stage’s musical retelling of fairy tale favorite Cinderella, the title character is not a damsel in distress. Instead, she’s a sword-wielding adventurer.

The show features lots of laughs with slapstick comedy that will appeal to young audiences, but still includes the hallmarks of the classic tale, from the evil stepmother and stepsisters to a fairy godmother, a fancy ball and, of course, the charming prince.

The Bethesda theater recommends the production for ages 4 and older. $15-$35, Imagination Stage, imaginationstage.org

34 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Nov. 2-4

CELEBRATING FREEDOM On Jan. 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared free all slaves in Civil War states that seceded from the Union. In many states, however, slavery remained legal. Maryland acted on Nov. 1, 1864, when a new state constitution abolished slavery in the Free State. Montgomery Parks commemorates the anniversary during the first weekend of each November with a series of events celebrating Maryland Emancipation Day at county parks and historic sites. Highlights include guided “Underground Railroad Experience” hikes—the “Voices of the Underground Railroad” night hike at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park has been particularly popular—as well as historical exhibitions, archaeological activities, live music and other cultural presentations.

Various county park locations, some activities require registration in advance and a fee, montgomeryparks.org

WANDA SYKES BY ROGER ERICKSON; CINDERELLA COURTESY OF IMAGINATION STAGE

Nov. 3-Jan. 6

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good life

BEST BETS Nov. 9-Jan. 6

ELF OFF THE SHELF The 2003 Will Ferrell movie Elf has become a modern holiday classic. It tells the story of Buddy, a human who thinks he’s one of Santa’s elves. When he ventures to New York to find his real dad, he brings the true spirit of the holiday to the jaded city.

In 2010, Elf the Musical took the tale from the silver screen to the Broadway stage.

Now it’s coming to Olney Theatre Center. The show, which includes comedic musical numbers “Never Fall in Love (With an Elf)” and “Nobody Cares About Santa,” is recommended for ages 10 and older.

left) and

$32.25-$94, Olney Theatre Center, olneytheatre.org

Dec. 1-30

Dec. 13

NUTCRACKER, CIRQUE-STYLE From traditional Russian ballet to modern hip-hop dance, The Nutcracker comes in many styles and interpretations. This season, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) offers a new take on the famous holiday classic. In Cirque Nutcracker, ballet meets the circus with aerialists, acrobats and contortionists from Troupe Vertigo accompanied by the BSO playing music from the Tchaikovsky masterpiece. The performance is recommended for ages 6 and older.

8 p.m., $35-$90, The Music Center at Strathmore, strathmore.org

Santa can be found in all kinds of places during the holiday season, but one of the more unique Santa photo ops is at the National Capital Trolley Museum’s Holly TrolleyFest.

Visitors can take unlimited rides aboard a historic street car to meet the jolly old elf.

Between rides, Santa can usually be found inside the museum, where visitors can see model trains in a display featuring a Christmas tree and decorations, and real trains by taking a docent-led tour of the Street Car Hall. Santa rides are on Saturdays and Sundays from Dec. 1 to 23. After that, he returns to the North Pole, but the festival continues with trolley rides and displays through Dec. 30.

12:30-4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, $7, $5 children ages 2 to 17 and seniors 65 and older, National Capital Trolley Museum, Colesville, dctrolley.org

Dec. 11

JORJA ON MY MIND With a soulful voice and a style influenced by R&B, reggae and hip-hop, Jorja Smith has an impressive résumé for someone who’s only 21 years old. The singer, who grew up outside of London, won the 2018 Brit Critics’ Choice Award and was nominated for the prestigious 2018 Mercury Prize for outstanding British album. She’s collaborated with some of hip-hop’s biggest names, including Drake and Kendrick Lamar. In June, she released her first full-length album, Lost & Found. With positive reviews from publications as diverse as Pitchfork and The New Yorker, an appearance on The Tonight Show and a headlining tour across North America, this could be her biggest year yet. Catch her before it’s over when she stops at The Fillmore.

8 p.m., $29.50, The Fillmore Silver Spring, fillmoresilverspring.com

36 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

CIRQUE NUTCRACKER COURTESY OF THE BALTIMORE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA; JORJA SMITH COURTESY PHOTO

ALL ABOARD

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good life arts & entertainment

CALENDAR COMPILED BY SANDRA FLEISHMAN

MUSIC Singer Aida Cuevas will perform hits by Mexican pop icon Juan Gabriel on Nov. 8 at The Music Center at Strathmore.

Nov. 4 CHEE-YUN. Since making her Carnegie Hall soloist debut 30 years ago at age 15, the Korean-born violinist has traveled the world. The program includes works

by Debussy, Strauss, Beethoven and Wieniawski. See website for prices. 7:30 p.m. Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, Rockville. 301-8810100, benderjccgw.org.

Nov. 4 TAKE 6. The acclaimed a cappella and gospel group has a new album, Iconic. 1 and 7 p.m. $59.50-$79.50. Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club, Bethesda. 240330-4500, bbjlive.com.

Nov. 8 AIDA CUEVAS: A TRIBUTE TO JUAN GABRIEL. A “Queen of Ranchera Music” sings hits by Mexican pop icon Gabriel.

8 p.m. $38-$78. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

TRISHA GENE BRADY WORKSHOP AND CONCERT. Brady, a Tennessee “roots musician” best known as the female vocalist for The Black Lillies, is touring with her first solo album. 7:30 p.m., workshop 3-4:30 p.m. $22.50-$25 for concert; $45 for workshop and concert.

The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301-2586394, artsonthegreen.ticketfly.com/ event/1750199.

Nov. 11 THE JOURNEY OF AMERICAN CANTORS IN STORY & SONG. Local Reform cantors and synagogue musicians celebrate the music that fills their services and the legacy of prolific American songwriter and lyricist Debbie Friedman. 7 p.m. See website for prices. The Music Center at 38 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF STRATHMORE

Nov. 10

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@jsgrealestate @jillschwartzgroup @jillschwartzre

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 7200 Wisconsin Ave Suite 500, Bethesda, MD 20814 | 202.448.9002

Come Together

good life Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Nov. 16 and 18

COPLAND SYMPHONY NO. 3. The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra offers a 90-minute Off the Cuff concert on Nov. 16, featuring “Fanfare for the Common Man” and time for questions, and a Nov. 18 program of the full symphony, plus Andrew Norman’s Gran Turismo—inspired by the car-racing video game—and a commissioned work for oboes. 8:15 p.m.

Friday; 3 p.m. Sunday. $35-$90. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda.

301-581-5100, bsomusic.org.

Nov. 17

Upcoming Shows

Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore {Rockabilly outlaws}

Tue, Nov 6

Dark Desert Eagles {Tribute to the Eagles}

Thu, Nov 15

Susan Werner {Singer-songwriter}

Fri, Nov 16

Antonio Sanchez {Jazz drum machine}

THU, NOV 29

Storm Large

{Chanteuse of Pink Martini}

SAT, DEC 1

MIKE SHINODA NORTH AMERICA. The founder of genre-crossing band Linkin Park wrote an intensely personal album, Post Traumatic, after the 2017 death of front man Chester Bennington, and is touring again. 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.) $35$125. The Fillmore, Silver Spring. 301960-9999, fillmoresilverspring.com.

Nov. 17

NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC: BERNSTEIN CHORAL CELEBRATION. Special soloists and the Strathmore Children’s Chorus join the National Philharmonic Chorale in selections from Leonard Bernstein’s Mass, Candide and West Side Story. 8 p.m. $30$76; children ages 7-17 attend for free with a paying adult. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Nov. 17

STEPHEN ROBINSON. As part of the John E. Marlow Guitar Series, the American guitarist mixes classical works with unexpected arrangements. 8 p.m. $35-$45; students $17.50-$22.50 Westmoreland Congregational Church, Bethesda. 301-7994028, marlowguitar.org.

Nov. 25

HOME FREE: A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS TOUR. The 2013 Sing-Off winners feature country-dipped Christmas hits and music from their 2016 album, Full of (Even More) Cheer. 8 p.m. $34-$218. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda.

301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 1

11810 Grand Park Ave, N. Bethesda, MD Red Line–White Flint Metro

AMPbySTRATHMORE.COM

STORM LARGE: HOLIDAY ORDEAL. This singer-musician-playwright is known for her vocals. After her breakthrough on the 2006 TV show Rock Star: Supernova, she filled in as lead singer with Pink Martini.

Joining her on this tour is her band,

40 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Le Bonheur. 8 p.m. $35-$45. AMP by Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, ampbystrathmore.com.

Dec. 2 MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS. The new-age group is again touring its unique holiday show. 4 and 8 p.m. $52$108. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 4 KENNY G: THE MIRACLES HOLIDAY & HITS TOUR. Holiday favorites by the Grammywinning smooth jazz saxophonist. 8 p.m. $48-$128. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 6 98° AT CHRISTMAS 2018. The multiplatinum-selling boy band from the ’90s reunited in 2012 and still tells it like it is—in four-part harmony—in 2018. 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7 p.m.) $39.50-$229.

The Fillmore, Silver Spring. 301-960-9999, fillmoresilverspring.com.

Dec. 8 RUFUS WAINWRIGHT: ALL THESE POSES ANNIVERSARY TOUR 2018. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of his debut, the singer-songwriter performs material from breakthrough albums Rufus Wainwright and Poses. 8 p.m. $39-$399. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda.

301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 9 PAMELA FRANK. An Avery Fisher Prize winner, violinist Frank performs sonatas

by Bach, Mozart and Brahms. See website for prices. 7:30 p.m. Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, Rockville. 301-881-0100, benderjccgw.org.

Dec. 10 THE BEACH BOYS: REASON FOR THE SEASON CHRISTMAS TOUR. “Fun, Fun, Fun” and other favorites for the holidays.

8 p.m. $58-$108. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 14-15 BIG BAND HOLIDAYS: JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS. The evening features 15 top jazz players and guest vocalists Vuyo Sotashe and Veronica Swift. 8 p.m. $58$108. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 15

Nov. 24

COOL YULE WITH LENA SEIKALY. One of Washington, D.C.’s top jazz vocalists, Seikaly will sing in the season with holiday favorites and originals. 8 p.m. $15-$25.

The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301-2586394, ticketfly.com/event/1751343.

Dec. 18-19 THE HIP-HOP NUTCRACKER. These family-friendly performances reimagine Tchaikovsky’s classic score as explosive hip-hop in New York City, with a dozen dancers, an electronic violinist and rapper Kurtis Blow. 8 p.m. $30-$60. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda.

301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

HOPE GARDEN CHILDREN’S BALLET THEATRE: A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Set in 1840s London, the performance is an original interpretation of Dickens’ novel. $25-$30. 1:30 and 6 p.m. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-3148690, fscottfitzgerald.showare.com.

Dec. 22 and 23 HANDEL’S MESSIAH. The oratorio is performed by the National Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale with special soloists. 8 p.m. Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. $52-$88; children ages 7-17 attend for free with a paying adult. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 1-9 THE NUTCRACKER. The Rockville Civic Ballet stages its annual performances. 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays.

See website for details. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-314-8690, rockvillemd.gov/theatre.

THEATER AND TALKS Through Nov. 4 HOW I LEARNED TO DRIVE. Paula Vogel’s chronicle of one woman’s journey to break the cycle—and silence—of sexual abuse won the 1998 Pulitzer Prize for drama.

See website for times and prices. Round House Theatre, Bethesda. 240-644-1100, roundhousetheatre.org.

Dec. 16-17

DANCE

MOSCOW BALLET’S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER. Now in its 26th North American tour, this version features highly praised dancers, spectacular costumes and a 60-foot growing Christmas tree. 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday; 8 p.m. Monday. $28$98. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

Nov. 21 THANKSGIVING DANCE. The Nighthawks, local favorites known for blues and roots rock music, will perform for dance-goers.

See website for details. Kensington Town Hall, Kensington. explorekensington.com.

Through Nov. 11 BRIGADOON. Lerner and Loewe’s magical tale about the power of love comes to life with the Rockville Musical Theatre company. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays;

PRESIDENTIAL DIALOGUE SERIES | 2018–2018

Neera Tanden: Inclusion and Equity in Domestic Policy – Nov. 27, 7 p.m.

Join Montgomery College President DeRionne P. Pollard for a dialogue with Neera Tanden, president and CEO of the Center for American Progress. Tanden’s focus is on building a domestic agenda that is inclusive of all Americans and expands opportunity.

Rockville Campus

Science Center West, Room 301 The 2018–2019 Presidential Dialogue Series will explore the politics of radical inclusion. While intolerance appears to be on the rise, an alternative movement—radical inclusion—is gaining traction. This year’s series will delve into the question: How can our nation create a politics of radical inclusion?

montgomerycollege.edu/dialogues

“A bona fide treat” - The New York Post

NOVEMBER 9 JANUARY 6

Event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 240-567-5267.

olneytheatre.org Special thanks to our media sponsor:

BETHESDA

301.924.3400

Bethesda Magazine’s Online News Briefing

WE’RE CLOSE BY! Just 10 min from the ICC, 30 min from DC, 15 min from Rockville and Columbia, and 40 min from Baltimore!

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 41

good life 2 p.m. Nov. 4 and 11. $23-$25. F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, Rockville. 240-3148690, fscottfitzgerald.showare.com.

Through Nov. 17

THE CRUCIBLE. Arthur Miller’s gripping look at the Puritan purge of witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts—winner of the 1953 Tony Award for best play—is also a timely parable of contemporary society. See website for details. Silver Spring Stage, Silver Spring. 301-593-6036, ssstage.org.

Through Nov. 17

Works by Werner Drewes will be on view at Gallery B in Bethesda from Nov. 7 to Dec. 1.

SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET. Kensington Arts Theatre tackles one of the most over-thetop musical hits of Broadway. Stephen Sondheim wrote the music and lyrics for the dark comedy about a vengeful barber who turns people into meat pies. 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 1:30 p.m.

Nov. 4 and 11. $19-$27. Kensington Town Hall, Kensington. 240-621-0528, katonline.org.

Nov. 1

INA GARTEN. The host of Food Network’s Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics—and the author of 10 best-selling cookbooks— shares stories of her life and writing career, including the latest cookbook, Cook Like a Pro. After an onstage interview with a moderator, Garten will take questions.

8 p.m. $55-$85. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Nov. 3

Nov. 16

KOUROSH TAIE: MAGICIAN. A one-man show, Labor of Love (LOL), combines comedy, magic and mentalism. 8 p.m. $18-$20. Recommended for ages 15 and older. The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301258-6394, gaithersburgmd.gov.

Nov. 23-Dec. 30

A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Olney Theatre continues its Christmas tradition with the solo performance of Paul Morella in the classic Dickens work. Recommended for ages 10 and older. See website for details.

$40. Mulitz-Gudelsky Theatre Lab, Olney.

301-924-3400, olneytheatre.org.

Nov. 28-Dec. 23 GEM OF THE OCEAN. The ninth chapter in August Wilson’s celebrated 10-play cycle is set in 1904, the first decade he tackled.

But the events are a swirl of emotions and memories about slavery and what has followed. See website for details. $36$61. Round House Theatre, Bethesda.

240-644-1100, roundhousetheatre.org.

Nov. 30-Dec. 16 FROSTED: A TRADITIONAL BRITISH PANTO. Song, dance, buffoonery, audience participation and mild innuendo are traditional features of British pantomime.

The British Players, a Washington-area presence since 1964, offers its annual holiday show. See website for details.

Kensington Town Hall, Kensington. 240447-9863, britishplayers.org.

42 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Dec. 7-16 SEASON OF LIGHT: A WINTER FAIRYTALE. Magda is chosen to play the Sister of the Sun for her village’s winter solstice ceremony. But when the days keep growing shorter, Magda is blamed and exiled.

8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m.

Sundays. $22-$25. Silver Spring Stage, Silver Spring. 301-593-6036, ssstage.org.

ART Through Nov. 18 FABIOLA ALVAREZ. The artist, who works in Mexico and the U.S., repurposes obsolete recording materials—like VHS cassette tape and typewriter ribbon—and weaves them together. The panels, cages and nets she makes question the speed in which consumers produce and discard technologies. Noon-4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays; noon-

PHOTO COURTESY OF GALLERY B

QUOTIDIAN THEATRE FUNDRAISER: RICK FOUCHEUX. The longtime Washington actor performs Chekhov’s farce On the Harmfulness of Tobacco and his own work, Parts of a Night, with fellow actors Kim Schraf, Matthew Vaky and Chelsea Thaler. The event also includes a silent auction and appetizers. 8 p.m. $50. The Writer’s Center, Bethesda. 301-816-1023, quotidiantheatre.org.

8 p.m. Fridays. Free. VisArts at Rockville, Rockville. 301-315-8200, visartscenter.org.

Through January 2020 LOUISE BOURGEOIS: TO UNRAVEL A TORMENT. Body parts, spiders and fractured families are repeated themes in the 30 pieces in this exhibit, which spans five decades of the noted FrenchAmerican feminist’s work. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. Free. Glenstone, Potomac. Call to schedule visit. 301-9835001, glenstone.org.

Nov. 7-Nov. 30 METALWORK 2018: WASHINGTON GUILD OF GOLDSMITHS. The 19th biennial juried exhibition includes finely crafted jewelry, sculpture and tableware. Gallery hours are noon-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Opening reception 6-9 p.m. Nov. 9. Free.

Waverly Street Gallery, Bethesda. 301-9519441, waverlystreetgallery.com.

Nov. 7-Dec. 1 REVISITING THE WOODCUTS & COLLAGES OF WERNER DREWES. The German-born painter and printmaker immigrated to the

U.S. in 1930 and is considered a founding father of American abstraction. He lived in Reston, Virginia, for 13 years before his death in 1985. Noon-6 p.m. WednesdaySaturday. Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Nov. 9. Free. Gallery B, Bethesda. 301-2156660, bethesda.org.

Nov. 17-Jan. 6 FINE ART IN MINIATURE. More than 700 minimasterpieces from around the world fill the 84th annual exhibition curated

by The Miniature Painters, Sculptors & Gravers Society of Washington, D.C. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Wednesdays; noon-4 p.m. Sundays.

Opening reception 2 p.m. Nov. 18. Free.

The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

Dec. 5-29 BE DOT GALLERY PRESENTS A BURNING WINTER DANCE. Works from the Be Dot Gallery in Frederick. Noon-6 p.m.

Wednesday-Saturday. Opening reception 6-8 p.m. Dec. 14. Free. Gallery B, Bethesda. 301-215-6660, bethesda.org.

Dec. 7-Jan. 13 STILL HAPPENINGS: GROUP SHOW. Works

by James Fitzsimmons, Carlton Fletcher, Matt Klos, Rosaline Moore, Lee Newman, Erin Raedeke, Marie Riccio, Daniel Riesmeyer, Nicole McCormick Santiago and Maggie Siner. Noon-4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays; noon8 p.m. Fridays. Opening reception 7-9 p.m.

Dec. 7. Free. VisArts at Rockville, Rockville.

301-315-8200, visartscenter.org.

CHILDREN/FAMILIES Through Nov. 16 HANSEL AND GRETEL. The story is told in 45 minutes with marionettes.

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. 301-6345380, thepuppetco.org.

Nov. 1 MEXICO BEYOND MARIACHI. This is a onenight event to experience The Mansion

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 43

good life at Strathmore’s “Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)” art exhibit with musical accompaniment. The art exhibit runs until Nov. 4. But for Nov. 1, you can purchase a timed ticket to see the works and hear performances by the group Mexico Beyond Mariachi. Recommended for ages 7 and older. Time slots are every 30 minutes from 6:30-8:30 p.m. $10. The Mansion at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Nov. 9-11

MARY POPPINS JR. Kensington Arts Theatre’s Second Stage—made up of fifth- to 12th-graders—performs the junior version of the Disney and Cameron Mackintosh Broadway musical.

Recommended for ages 5 and older. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $12-$15. BlackRock Center for the Arts, Germantown. 301-528-2260, blackrockcenter.org.

Nov. 9

THE NEW CHINESE ACROBATS. The production mixes new techniques and ancient Chinese folk art traditions. 7:30 p.m. $24-$54. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org.

Nov. 16-Jan. 6 FANCY NANCY’S SPLENDIFEROUS CHRISTMAS. The one-hour musical is based on an off-Broadway production of the book by Jane O’Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser. The action—as in the entire book series about the heroine— celebrates the fancy that Nancy delights in, but there’s a special holiday problem to resolve. Recommended for all ages.

See website for times. $25. Adventure Theatre MTC, Glen Echo. 301-634-2270, adventuretheatre-mtc.org.

Nov. 17

TURKEYPALOOZA. The Maryland-based VF Dance Theater presents a comedic Thanksgiving dance performance in which an ordinary house turns into an exciting adventure. The interactive story encourages children to count, read, move and solve problems. Recommended for ages 3 and up. 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. $15.

The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301-2586394, gaithersburgmd.gov.

Nov. 24-Dec. 9

A CHRISTMAS STORY. Rockville Little Theatre’s production is based on the classic 1938 movie about a young boy who only wants a BB gun for Christmas,

but must convince his parents, teachers and Santa. Recommended for ages 7 and older. See website for times. $20; $18 students ages 15-21 with ID; $12 ages 14 and younger. The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg.

301-258-6394, rlt-online.org.

Nov. 24-Dec. 30 THE NUTCRACKER. This show has been a Washington, D.C., puppet tradition for 30 years. The story is told in 50 minutes with marionettes and costumed characters.

Recommended for ages 5 and older. Check the website for dates and times. $12. The Puppet Co. Playhouse, Glen Echo. 301634-5380, thepuppetco.org.

Dec. 2 NATURAL HOLIDAY CRAFTS. Use natural or recycled objects to make holiday crafts and ornaments. Each participant completes at least three projects. Children under age 8 must be accompanied by an adult.

Recommended for ages 5 and older.

Register by Nov. 28 for course #5998 on secure.rec1.com/md/city-of-rockville-md.

2-3:30 p.m. $10 for Rockville residents; $14 nonresidents. Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville. 240-314-8770, rockvillemd.gov.

Dec. 9 STRATHMORE CHILDREN’S CHORUS: OUR VOICES, HER SONG. More than 200 voices pay homage to the world’s finest female composers. 4 p.m. $15-$25. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda.

301-581-5100, strathmore.org.

SEASONAL/SPECIAL EVENTS Through mid-March SKATING AT THE SQUARE. Lace up and glide across the outdoor rink in Rockville Town Square. Noon-11 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Sundays; noon-10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. See website for holiday hours. $9 for two hours of skating; $8 children, seniors and military; $5 skate rental.

Rockville Town Square, Rockville. 301-5451999; rockvilleiceskating.com.

Through April 1 ICE SKATING AT VETERANS PLAZA. Take a spin around the outdoor skating rink. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sundays; noon10 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; noon-midnight Fridays; 10 a.m.-midnight

44 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Saturdays. See website for holiday hours. $9 for a two-hour session; $8 children and seniors; $5 skate rental. Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring. 301-588-1221, silverspringiceskating.com.

Nov. 11 VETERANS DAY CEREMONY. The mayor and city council honor military veterans. A wreath-laying ceremony and 21-gun salute is planned. 11 a.m. Free. Rockville. 240314-8620, rockvillemd.gov.

Nov. 11 VETERANS DAY OBSERVANCE. City officials pay tribute to those who served in the military. Donations of money and items to support homeless veterans will be collected. 1 p.m. Free. City Hall Concert Pavilion, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6300, gaithersburgmd.gov.

Nov. 16-18 HOLIDAY SUGARLOAF CRAFTS FESTIVAL. More than 450 artists will be displaying and selling photography, glass, sculpture, pottery, jewelry and other creations. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. $8 online, $10 at the event, free for 12 and younger. The admission fee is good for all three days. Montgomery County Fairgrounds, Gaithersburg. 301990-1400, sugarloafcrafts.com.

Nov. 23-Dec. 31 WINTER LIGHTS FESTIVAL. Drive through 3.5 miles of sparkling light displays and beautifully lit trees. Before the drive-thru program starts on Nov. 23, special events include S’more Lights (Nov. 16), featuring campfires, trolley rides and Santa; Wine Under the Lights (Nov. 18), which includes wine tastings, live music and trolley rides; and a Leashes ’n’ Lights dog walk (Nov. 20). See website for all fees and for hours for special events. Drive-thru hours: 6-9 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 6-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Closed Dec. 25. Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg. 301-2586350, gaithersburgmd.gov.

Dec. 1 WINTER WONDERLAND. The annual Bethesda Urban Partnership event includes live entertainment, ice sculpting and a visit from Santa. 1-4 p.m. Free.

Veterans Park, Bethesda. 301-215-6660, bethesda.org.

Dec. 1-2 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA. Enjoy a breakfast buffet, holiday music and some time with St. Nick. 9 a.m. $20; $15 for ages 12 and

younger. Kentlands Mansion, Gaithersburg.

301-258-6425, gaithersburgmd.gov.

Dec. 2

LEON FLEISHER’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SAT, JAN 5 8 PM

JINGLE JUBILEE AND TREE LIGHTING. The traditional tree-lighting ceremony includes music and Santa. Donations of money and items to support homeless veterans will be collected. 6-7:30 p.m. Free. City Hall Concert Pavilion, Gaithersburg. 301-2586350, gaithersburgmd.gov.

TURANGALÎLASYMPHONIE FRI, JAN 11 8:15 PM OFF THE CUFF SUN, JAN 13 3 PM

Dec. 7

SIBELIUS VIOLIN CONCERTO SAT, JAN 19 8 PM

CAROLING IN THE KENTLANDS/ LAKELANDS. Join the Gaithersburg Chorus and Pritchard Music Academy music school for caroling at 6 p.m. After stopping at Kentlands Manor and other venues, the group moves to the Arts Barn for treats at 7 p.m. Free. The Lakelands Clubhouse, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6425, gaithersburgmd.gov.

SUPERPOPS: RODGERS AND HAMMERSTEIN THURS, JAN 24 8 PM RESPIGHI PINES OF ROME THURS, JAN 31 8 PM

Dec. 8

ALL ABOARD WITH SANTA. The festivities at this restored 1884 railroad station complex include: Santa visiting in a real C&O Railroad caboose, vintage holiday cartoons and craft activities in a 1950s-era Budd car, and refreshments.

4-6:30 p.m. $10 children, $7 adults.

Gaithersburg Community Museum, Gaithersburg. Preregistration required.

301-258-6160, gaithersburgmd.gov.

MOZART SYMPHONY NO. 40 SAT, FEB 9 8 PM RAVEL BOLERO 8 PM

SAT, FEB 16

ELGAR CELLO CONCERTO FRI, FEB 22 8:15 PM OFF THE CUFF SUN, FEB 24 3 PM

Dec. 14

FILM & BREW: DIE HARD 30TH ANNIVERSARY + UGLY SWEATER PARTY. Celebrate the holidays by bringing a sweater and then watching the 1988 Bruce Willis action thriller Die Hard. 6 p.m. sweater decorating and pub; 7:30 p.m. movie. Recommended for ages 17 and older. $5 in advance, $8 day of. The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg. 301-258-6394, ticketfly.com/event/1706607-ugly-sweaterfilm-brew-gaithersburg.

Presenting Sponsors: M&T Bank | Comcast | Total Wine & More

Dec. 30

SALUTE TO VIENNA NEW YEAR’S CONCERT. For 18 years, the Strauss Symphony of America concert has blended European singers and dancers with exceptional local symphonies. The performance features dancers from the Europaballett St. Pölten (Austria) and international ballroom dancers. 3 p.m. $49-$125. The Music Center at Strathmore, North Bethesda. 301-5815100, strathmore.org. n

To submit calendar items, or to see a complete listing, go to BethesdaMagazine.com.

LEON FLEISHER

JACK EVERLY

MARIN ALSOP

EXPLORE THE FULL SEASON AT BSOMUSIC.ORG

THE MUSIC CENTER AT STRATHMORE TICKETS FROM $30 • 1.877.BSO.1444 FREE PARKING • ON THE RED LINE

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 45

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

culture watch Blueberries for Sal Adventure Theatre MTC Sept. 21-Oct. 21 Kuplink, kuplank, kuplunk! Gathering blueberries for the winter months, Sal and a baby bear have a mixed up adventure and lose their mothers on Blueberry Hill.

ADVENTURETHEATRE-MTC.ORG 301-634-2270

Holiday Art Show & Sale Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture Nov. 17-Dec. 30 Saturdays & Sundays, 11am-6pm Thursdays & Fridays, 10am-2pm Special hours (check website) on Nov. 23; Closed Nov. 22 Browse and buy fine artworks for everyone on your holiday shopping list at Glen Echo Park’s annual Holiday Art Show & Sale.

Wearable art and jewelry, stunning glass art, paintings, pottery, photographs, and more.

National Philharmonic @ Strathmore Presents

Bernstein Choral Celebration Nov. 17 at 8pm Enjoy selections from West Side Story, Candide and Mass!

Tickets from $30; Kids 7-17 Free Holiday Sing-Along Dec. 7 at 7:30pm Sing along to holiday classics with your family and friends at Strathmore. Features award-winning soprano/ actress Iyona Blake.

Tickets from $23 Messiah Dec. 22 at 8pm & Dec. 23 at 3pm No Christmas celebration is complete without a performance of Handel’s uplifting oratorio Messiah.

Tickets from $34; Kids 7-17 Free NATIONALPHILHARMONIC.ORG | 301-581-5100

GLENECHOPARK.ORG/HOLIDAYARTSHOW | 301-634-2222

Nutcracker Night

Akhmedova Ballet Academy (ABA) Dec. 15 at 7pm Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center 7995 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD Join us for ABA’s magical annual “Nutcracker Night” – 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 that will enchant everyone’s heart. The second act will showcase classical masterpieces, contemporary and character choreographies. ABA is dedicated to providing the finest quality ballet training for young dancers preparing them to take their places in major ballet companies.

Tickets are available online or at the box office.

Adults: $20, Students and Seniors: $15, Group 10+: $10 Find us on Facebook: @AkhmedovaBallet AKHMEDOVABALLET.ORG | 301-593-6262

30th Annual Production of The Nutcracker

A HOLIDAY FAVORITE

Metropolitan Ballet Theatre Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center Montgomery College, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, MD Saturdays, Dec. 1 & 8 at 1pm & 5pm Sundays, Dec. 2 & 9 at 1pm & 5pm The Nutcracker Suite: Saturdays, Dec. 1 & 8 at 10am Start your holiday season with the enchanting tale of The Nutcracker! Awarded 5 stars from DC Metro Theater Arts, MBT’s full-length, traditional production features student and professional dancers, fabulous costumes, and beautiful scenery – including a growing Christmas tree, magical dancing dolls, marching toy soldiers, a dazzling blizzard of dancing snowflakes, and a land of luscious sweets.

Advance Tickets: $28 Adults, $24 Students and Seniors, Group Discounts Available MBTDANCE.ORG | 301-762-1757

Creative Voices + Cultural Happenings at CultureSpotMC.com CultureSpotMC.com is a service of the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County

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Kick into Gear…

DISCOVER LOCAL HISTORY

Heritage Montgomery …and check out the year-round offerings in the Montgomery County Heritage Area! Our many museums, parks, and historic sites offer unique gift shops for your holiday shopping as well as a wide variety of fun activities for your out-of-town guests. Let HeritageMontgomery.org be your guide to buying local, learning local, and playing local.

HERITAGEMONTGOMERY.ORG | 301-515-0753

The Nutcracker

Maryland Youth Ballet Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center Montgomery College, 51 Mannakee Street, Rockville, MD Dec. 14 & 21 at 7pm; Dec. 15, 16, 22 & 23 at 1pm & 5pm It’s enough to leave sugarplums dancing in any child’s head!”

The Washington Post Sunday Source Be enchanted, once again (or for the first time!) by MYB’s timeless production of The Nutcracker. Now in its 29th consecutive season and renowned for its astonishingly accomplished cast of dancers, you will be transported to the magical world of childhood’s most wonderful holiday memories. Voted both Outstanding Production in Classical Dance and Outstanding Youth Performance by Dance Metro DC Awards, MYB’s professional production is a metro-area family tradition.

Performances sell-out so get your advance-sale tickets soon!

In advance: $27 Children & Seniors; $34 Adults At the door: $32 Children & Seniors; $38 Adults Nutcracker VIP Experience – Includes pre-performance reception, behind-the-scenes tour, and more! $65 Children; $75 Adult.

MARYLANDYOUTHBALLET.ORG | 301-608-2232

GO ON A ROYAL ADVENTURE WITH IMAGINATION STAGE

Cinderella

Imagination Stage Nov. 3, 2018-Jan. 6, 2019 Performances on Saturdays & Sundays Holiday Weekday Performances: Dec. 24-31, Mondays, Wednesday-Friday at 11am & 1:30pm This wacky musical retelling of the beloved fairy tale takes Cinderella on a royal adventure complete with a wisecracking rat, evil stepsisters, and a smitten prince. When Cinderella’s stepmother forbids her from attending the ball, her fairy godmother convinces here that if the shoe fits- wear it! True love may await her if only she can put down her sword. Just the right fit for the holiday season!

Tickets: $15-35 IMAGINATIONSTAGE.ORG | 301-280-1660

Find all these events and more at CultureSpotMC.com

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PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

JUMPING IN Some Walt Whitman students spend their fall evenings playing competitive coed water polo

BY REBECCA GALE

IT’S 7:30 P.M., NEARLY DARK, and it’ll be at least another 15 minutes before the lights go on around the outdoor pool at Landon School in Bethesda. Twenty-two players from Walt Whitman High School’s club water polo team are getting ready for a scrimmage.

“It’s freezing!” one girl yells. She’ll have to get used to it: This is only mid-September, and outdoor

practice continues for another six weeks.

“They warm up when they’re in the water,” says Petar Solomun, Whitman’s first-year head coach.

And the players do, for the most part swimming without complaints up and down the 25 yards of the pool, passing the ball around before someone lunges a hard shot toward the goal. One shot thwacks

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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off the keeper’s chest. “It doesn’t hurt him,” Solomun says.

Solomun, 30, describes water polo as a combination of basketball, rugby and football. Whitman is the only public high school in Montgomery County that fields a community team—the team is not affiliated with Montgomery County Public Schools—but Miras Jelic, the assistant coach of Landon’s water polo team, says the sport is growing in popularity. (Landon is one of a handful of local private schools that have water polo teams; Whitman rents time at Landon’s heated pool for practice.)

Players and parents like it because it’s a physically demanding team sport with a much lower risk of injury than contact sports. But Jelic cautions that water polo and swimming are not the same.

“Water polo is twice as hard,” he says.

Players have to tread water throughout the 32-minute games. In practice, Solomun estimates that students swim between 1,500 and 3,000 yards, the latter of which is nearly 2 miles.

Whitman’s team was started by two sets of parents who were looking for an alternative to football. “In the two years Nick was on the [football] team, he played a total of 3 minutes,” says Audrey King, whose son graduated from the Bethesda high school five years ago. The team had 120 players; competition for playing time was intense. “He wasn’t having any fun.”

When Nick said he wanted to play water polo instead, a sport he’d picked up during summer swim practice, King approached Walt Bartman, the head of Landon’s water polo team, who arranged for pool time and began asking around for a coach.

Whitman had its first club team in the fall of 2011. King and Ellen Rogers, another player’s mother, had rounded up 11 players. The team spent weekends traveling to regional tournaments, often in Maryland or Pennsylvania.

“We lost every game for the next two years straight,” King says. “We were so inexperienced.”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Some students started playing in the offseason, taking advantage of the opportunity to train with competitive teams like the Capital Water Polo Club in Arlington, Virginia, where both Solomun and Jelic coach. Eventually they started winning games.

This season, Solomun has 30 players. “We have one of the rare coed high school teams,” he says. For Maia Kotelanski, a junior at Whitman and one of two girls playing varsity water polo—there are six girls on the JV team—being on a coed team is part of the appeal. “I think the environment would be really different if it was just boys or just girls,” she says. She gets up for school at 6 a.m., eats lunch during class, and leaves at 12:50 p.m. each day for an internship at the National Institutes of Health. Water polo is a way she can socialize with other kids while staying in shape.

Sophomore Lukas Einberg wasn’t much of a swimmer when he first participated in a water polo clinic in eighth grade, something Whitman offers to students at Thomas W. Pyle Middle School (which feeds into Whitman) to generate interest in the sport. After that, Einberg was hooked, though it took him two weeks after joining the Whitman team to master the “eggbeater” position, when players swim vertically—treading water while moving forward, both hands in the air. “The seniors helped me,” he says.

“They showed me the right way to move my feet.”

Solomun, who has coached water polo in his home country of Serbia as well as in Paris, sees Whitman as a model for how a public high school without a pool can field a competitive team. Some Whitman students have gone on to play water polo at Division I schools, including Villanova University and the University of Virginia.

“Every year it’s just more kids,” Solomun says, gesturing toward the pool. Even in the dim light of practice, he calls out a player’s name. “I can tell who they are just by their strokes.” n

banter

BY KELLY SANKOWSKI

FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING GARDEN OF LIGHTS BY THE NUMBERS

During the annual Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, which will be held this holiday season from Nov. 16 to Jan. 1, visitors can walk through bright displays of animals, flowers and other things found in nature. Each of the displays is hand-woven with strands of colorful lights, nearly all of which are LEDs. Displays at the Garden of Lights, now in its 20th year, include a 50-foot-long caterpillar, a 14-foot-tall giraffe and a 25-foot-long Lock Ness monster. Inside the conservatory, the Garden Railway exhibit features model trains running on 350 feet of track and custom-made scenes involving local historic landmarks. Here’s a look at the Garden of Lights, by the numbers:

MORE THAN 1 MILLION number of lights in the displays

14,230 strands of lights

45,000

161 156 animals made of lights

2,972 hours worked by 130 volunteers in 2017

65 days to set up the event

50

$225,000+ amount raised by the event each year

15 acres used for the displays

days to take down the displays

SOURCE: Brookside Gardens

52

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

INFOGRAPHICS BY AMANDA SMALLWOOD

flowers depicted in lights

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THE RIDE OF HER LIFE

Jocelyn Pierce (right) riding with Michael Turner in Mongolia

A 31-year-old Rockville woman recently finished the Mongol Derby, known as the longest and toughest horse race in the world

AS SOON AS Jocelyn Pierce finished her first pony ride at the age of 2, she got back in line for another turn. She started riding lessons when she was 4 and had her own horse by the time she was 10. Pierce competed in jumping and dressage events while growing up in Massachusetts and was on the riding team at Otterbein University in Ohio, where she minored in equine science and got a degree in international studies.

After moving to Rockville in 2015, 54

Pierce continued to ride as a hobby. An associate editor at Practical Horseman magazine in Frederick, she is immersed in the horse world professionally. This past August, she saddled up for a new challenge: the Mongol Derby, dubbed the longest and toughest horse race in the world. From a pool of about 200 hopefuls, she was one of 44 riders selected for the endurance event, in which riders trek across about 600 miles of rugged terrain in Mongolia over the

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

span of about a week to 10 days.

Pierce, 31, followed the Mongol Derby for years but had never participated in an endurance race and didn’t even consider applying until August 2017, after one of her colleagues competed in it. “I was hooked by the adventure, the competition, and was intrigued with how the Mongolian people have a huge history and connection to the horse,” says Pierce, who got sponsors to help cover most of the cost, about $21,000. The race

PHOTO COURTESY OF MONGOL DERBY

BY CARALEE ADAMS

PHOTO BY BILL SELWYN

PHOTO COURTESY OF MONGOL DERBY

Pierce at the finish line

is inspired by Genghis Khan’s messaging system, which was similar to the Pony Express mail service in the United States.

Riders map their own course and change horses—semiwild equines provided by local herders—about every 25 miles. The riders rely on the hospitality of locals to feed and house them in portable round tents, or yurts, known as gers.

To prepare for the journey, Pierce spoke to past participants, researched clothing and gear, and ramped up her fitness training. About six days a week she did an early-morning cardio workout followed by a 5-mile hike or run at Sugarloaf Mountain. Then she’d go to Bennett’s Creek Farm in Frederick and ride her horse, Treya, for an hour before heading to her job.

Pierce worked with an endurance trainer in Utah for three days in June, and spent time with local riding trainer Rose Agard at Bennett’s Creek. In anticipation of long hours of riding, Agard worked with Pierce on different ways to sit on the horse. “She got a lot stronger in overall position, strength and balance up out of the saddle,” Agard says. “And her grit increased. If she fell off, she’d get back up and say, ‘Let’s do this.’ ”

At the start of the derby on Aug. 9, Pierce felt ready. Some riders traveled alone; others went in groups. (Two riders from Takoma Park, friends Carol Federighi and Matthew Graham, both 58, rode together the entire race.) The woman Pierce planned to ride with was injured on the second day and dropped out, so she joined a group of five men for the rest of the event. “I was really lucky to have a team of riders that was helping each other out,” Pierce says. “A lot of the derby has to do with luck. And I got lucky.”

Riding started at 6:30 a.m. and ended at 8 p.m., and her team covered about 85 to 90 miles a day, with temperatures reaching the 90s. “The race was pretty punishing physically and mentally,” says Pierce, who rode 29 different horses over eight days. After each leg of the race, veterinarians checked the health of the horses to make sure they’d been cared for properly. (Pierce passed all of her vet checks.) “It’s something where you have to be absolutely in the moment all the time because you have to be feeling your horse,” she says.

Riders trekked across flat open land, mountains, hills and sand dunes, with

marmot holes posing a constant hazard.

Each night, Pierce’s group looked for food and lodging wherever they stopped, doing their best to overcome the language barrier. They often had to mime or hand the locals prewritten notes in Mongolian to explain their situation. “We don’t look like them. We don’t speak their language. We’d just waltz up to their door looking for a place to stay,” Pierce says. “The people are just incredible.”

A vegetarian for 10 years, Pierce was ravenous after riding and says she ate almost anything that was put in front of her, including meat pies and mutton with noodles. She was limited to 11 pounds of gear, including one change of clothes, a sleeping bag, a knife, a first-aid kit and peanut butter snacks.

On the fifth day, Pierce hurt her back when her horse stumbled on a hole.

“The thought of quitting never crossed my mind,” she says. A few days later, as most of Pierce’s team neared the end in the pouring rain, they held back and waited for their teammates in order to cross the finish line together in a six-way tie for ninth place. “There was so much joy and happiness,” she says. “It was sort of surreal.” When Pierce landed at JFK International Airport in New York around midnight, her family and friends greeted her with posters and champagne. Many had followed her online each day; the tracker she wore for safety provided updates on her progress.

Back in Rockville, Pierce says it took time to unwind. “I’ve been obsessing about this race for a year. Every spare moment I’ve been training or reading gear reviews,” she says. She’s been writing about her journey for Practical Horseman, and she relives the adventure by watching video from the camera that was mounted on the brim of her helmet. What’s next? She has her eye on another endurance race—this time in Patagonia. n

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

55

banter

QUICK TAKES

News you may have missed

BY THE BETHESDA BEAT STAFF

WEDDING IN A PARKING SPACE? Bad weather is supposed to be good luck for a wedding, but what about a mock wedding in a parking spot? On an overcast September day, several wedding vendors set up a display in a Norfolk Avenue parking space in Bethesda for PARK(ing) Day, a global event that encourages participants to turn ordinary parking spots into something special. The setup included a wedding reception spread and even a “bride” looking for a groom. And find her groom she did—or, at least, a nicely dressed passerby who posed for photos as he “proposed” on bended knee with a sour cherry Ring Pop.

‘SURRENDER DONALD’

A platypus, a few flamingos, a handful of dragons and a herd of elephants were among the stuffed animals that arrived in droves via mailed packages and personal deliveries at the Family Justice Center in Rockville in August after Montgomery County Sheriff Darren Popkin posted a need for the toys on Facebook and Bethesda Beat wrote a story about it. Every child who arrives at the domestic violence resource center is given a furry friend—on average, the center gives away 25 stuffed animals each week. Soon the center had restocked its supply, having received hundreds of stuffed animals.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

FAIRMONT FOUNTAIN A geyser of water suddenly appeared during an August lunch hour at the intersection of Fairmont and Norfolk avenues in Bethesda’s Woodmont Triangle. The cause was an apparent break in a temporary water main near the intersection and just in front of 202 Next Door, a Latin-inspired restaurant that shut its doors for good two days earlier. Alas, the restaurant’s folding windows were unable to keep a watertight seal against the torrent, and puddles could be seen inside, proving that when it rains, it pours.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARY ANN SMITH

WANTED: STUFFED ANIMALS

The railroad bridge that spans the Beltway near the Mormon temple in Kensington once again called for surrender one August morning—not of Dorothy, but of Donald. The message “Surrender Donald”—presumably in reference to President Trump—appeared to be affixed in reddish magnetic lettering to the CSX bridge, facing outer loop commuters. It was a throwback to the famous “Surrender Dorothy” graffiti that appeared occasionally on the overpass for several decades.

That graffiti was a source of ire to state highway workers who would scrub off the lettering only to see it painted again.

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banter

BAKER MAN

Mike Wise, who bakes for fun, in the kitchen with his children

Local sportswriter Mike Wise has a sweet hobby: making cupcakes, pastries and more

MIKE WISE STANDS AT the center island of his North Chevy Chase kitchen on a sunny July morning, whipping cream for a lime tart with one arm and bouncing his 6-month-old daughter, Margo, to “Somebody’s Baby” by Jackson Browne, in the other. Pecan sticky buns are rising by the kitchen window.

Wise, 54, a longtime Washington, D.C., sportswriter, stands 6 feet 4 inches tall, with broad shoulders befitting a journalist willing to take strong stands on issues at the intersection of sports and politics. For years, he refused to call Washington’s NFL team by its official name because he views it as a slur to 58

American Indians, and he criticized the team’s owners for refusing to change it.

Wise’s views as a sportswriter have been contentious at times, and readers’ reactions can be brutal. One thing that’s hard to debate, though, is that Wise can flat-out bake. With baking, unlike reporting on sports, “If you don’t screw it up, you pretty much make everybody happy,” he says.

Word has gotten out that Wise has a talent for baking, and the neighborhood is eating it up. When he’s toweling off after his 6 a.m. swim on summer mornings, fellow Masters swimmers are more likely to ask if he can deliver cupcakes to

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

their upcoming gathering than to banter about the Nats’ playoff chances.

Wise is a former college basketball player who was a columnist at The Washington Post for 11 years, a sportswriter for The New York Times for 10, and spent three years at The Undefeated, ESPN’s sports and pop culture website.

He’s currently writing a biography about American Indian activist Billy Mills, an underdog runner who won a gold medal at the 1964 Olympics.

Wise makes dinner nightly for his family of five, and practices pastry recipes that include coconut cream cake with banana, pineapple and mango

PHOTO BY JOSH LOOCK

BY AVIVA GOLDFARB

filling and a toasted coconut topping.

The dessert his family and friends request most often, the one he fantasizes will get him an investment from Mark Cuban on Shark Tank, is chocolate cupcakes dipped in chocolate ganache with milk chocolate frosting, a recipe he has tweaked to perfection.

Wise traces his love of baking to his tumultuous childhood in Napa, California, and Ewa Beach, Hawaii. His father was an alcoholic, his mother moved out, and the atmosphere at home was stressful. An aunt signed Wise up for a Betty Crocker-Bisquick recipe-of-the-month baking club. The first real accolades he got from his family weren’t for his athletic achievements, but for the cookies he stayed up late one night to bake. He was hooked on the feeling of creating something that everyone loved and craved.

Throughout his career, Wise used baking to get centered in his free time, and fantasized about it as an escape hatch when things weren’t going well, like when he couldn’t find a job for months after The Sacramento Union newspaper closed and his mom and dog both died while he was unemployed. “As sanctuaries go, the kitchen was a lot safer than a bar or pigging out on fast food. I self-medicated with baking,” he says.

Wise has been known to flip the channels back and forth between a Spurs-Grizzlies game and Cake Wars.

He sports a custom XXL apron with paw prints and cupcakes, sneaks away whenever he can to Little Bitts baking shop in Wheaton, and daydreams about owning a bakery, or at least baking for guests at a bed-and-breakfast he’d own with his wife, Christina Lohs, in North Carolina or Montana (where he’d also be the fishing guide). He already has the bakery’s name picked out: Talula’s Treats, named after his beloved golden Lab, who died of cancer earlier this year.

Wise plans to make sports writing his vocation, and stick to baking as his avocation, at least for now. “Writing is my fruits and vegetables, my sustenance,” he says. “It gives me the best satisfaction, especially if I captured the person I’m writing about, and got the story right.

Baking feels like dessert.” n

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BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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banter

BOOK REPORT

In his new book, The Chosen Wars: How Judaism Became an American Religion (Simon & Schuster, August 2018), Steven Weisman writes about how Jews in 18thand 19th-century America struggled to reconcile the competing demands of their religion and modern life. The Bethesda resident had read scholarly material on the topic and wanted to tell the personal stories and conflicts of the immigrants. “I think anyone who is searching for answers to faith and God—not even necessarily people who believe in God but people who are searching and wondering what the purpose is of religion and prayer—will find this book interesting,” says Weisman, a former correspondent and editor at The New York Times.

60

When George Pelecanos started writing crime novels, he decided to always set them in or around working-class Washington, D.C. “That’s my life’s work,” says the 61-year-old, who was born in the District, lives in Silver Spring and is a writer and producer for HBO. “There was a hole in the literature that I wanted to fill. I figured by the time I was done—and I’m not done yet—I will have left behind a library of books about the city.” Unlike his 20 other books, The Man Who Came Uptown (Mulholland Books, September 2018) has a love story and is focused on one man’s journey after being released from prison. The main character discovered books while incarcerated, thanks to the prison’s librarian, and struggles to find his place in the newly gentrified Washington, D.C.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Rockville’s John Lingan first went to Winchester, Virginia, to write about Patsy Cline, the city’s famous native daughter and country music legend.

He came to realize that her legacy was tied into the area’s changing culture and decided to write about the tension amid rural decline and development. His new book, Homeplace: A Southern Town, a Country Legend, and the Last Days of a Mountaintop Honky-Tonk (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, July 2018), revolves around local country music icon and DJ Jim McCoy, and the evolution he witnessed from the lens of the famous Troubadour Bar & Lounge that he built in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Lingan predicts Winchester—just 70 miles west of Bethesda— will become a genuine D.C. commuter suburb within the next decade and that its residents will begin to feel more like our neighbors.

The Knowledge (Atlantic Monthly Press, April 2018) is Martha Grimes’ 24th mystery featuring detective Richard Jury—a kind, empathetic character with a great sense of humor who has bad luck with women. In this story, Jury follows the investigation of a double homicide in London, after which the criminal flees to Nairobi.

The plot includes twists that involve Kenyan art, a Tanzanian gem mine and a pub that can only be found by cabdrivers with knowledge of its location.

“This is the first time I’ve ever employed Africa,” says the 86-year-old Bethesda author, who was inspired after traveling to Kenya and Tanzania a few years ago. She names her mysteries after pubs, most of which she’s visited, but for this book she invented “The Knowledge.”

ALL BOOK COVERS FILE PHOTOS

BY CARALEE ADAMS

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banter LITERARY

DATA PROVIDED BY

READING LIST

The top-selling books in our area. Data is based on books sold at Politics and Prose’s Connecticut Avenue location in Upper Northwest D.C., from Sept. 4-18, 2018.

EVENTS CALENDAR

Note: Author event sales may influence the presence of some titles on these lists.

Nov. 4 JANE LEAVY. The Big Fella: Babe Ruth and the World He Created is the latest book from the author, who has penned best-sellers about baseball legends Mickey Mantle and Sandy Koufax. The 1980s Washington Post sportswriter and Style section reporter will answer questions and sign books. 3 p.m. Free. Politics and Prose, Washington, D.C. 202-3641919, politics-prose.com.

HARDCOVER FICTION

PAPERBACK

1.

The Man Who Came Uptown, George Pelecanos

1.

Nov. 5 and Dec. 6

2.

The Ghost Script, Jules Feiffer

2.

Improvement, Joan Silber

THE LESSANS FAMILY LITERARY SERIES. Stuart Eizenstat, Jimmy Carter’s domestic policy adviser and longtime aide, discusses and signs copies of his new book, President Carter: The White House Years, on Nov. 5. Former White House speechwriter David Litt, author of Thanks, Obama: My Hopey, Changey White House Years, follows on Dec. 6. 7 p.m. for both. $15 ticket only for both; $50 with book Nov. 5, $32 with book Dec. 6. Bender Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, Rockville. 301-8810100, benderjccgw.org.

3.

Lake Success, Gary Shteyngart

3.

A Raisin in the Sun, Lorraine Hansberry

4.

Warlight, Michael Ondaatje

4.

Lincoln in the Bardo, George Saunders

5.

The Silence of the Girls, Pat Barker

5.

6.

The Overstory, Richard Powers

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, Gail Honeyman

7.

The Incendiaries, R.O. Kwon

6.

8.

There There, Tommy Orange

Saudi America: The Truth About Fracking and How It’s Changing the World, Bethany McLean

9.

Little Fires Everywhere, Celeste Ng

7.

Less, Andrew Sean Greer

10. Circe, Madeline Miller

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8.

Pachinko, Min Jin Lee

9.

Exit West, Mohsin Hamid

10. Rich People Problems, Kevin Kwan

HARDCOVER NONFICTION

CHILDREN’S

1.

Fear: Trump in the White House, Bob Woodward

1.

Soñadores (Spanish Edition), Yuyi Morales

2.

Every Day Is Extra, John Kerry

2.

Nowhere Boy, Katherine Marsh

3.

Winners Take All: The Elite Charade of Changing the World, Anand Giridharadas

3.

Dog Man: Lord of the Fleas (Dog Man Series, #5), Dav Pilkey

4.

The Last Palace: Europe’s Turbulent Century in Five Lives and One Legendary House, Norman Eisen

4.

Henry Is Kind: A Story of Mindfulness, Linda Ryden

5.

Dreamers, Yuyi Morales

5.

Rule Makers, Rule Breakers: How Tight and Loose Cultures Wire Our World, Michele Gelfand

6.

Turning Pages: My Life Story, Sonia Sotomayor

6.

Not for the Faint of Heart: Lessons in Courage, Power & Persistence, Wendy R. Sherman

7.

The Beloved World of Sonia Sotomayor, Sonia Sotomayor

7.

Hubert Humphrey: The Conscience of the Country, Arnold A. Offner

8.

The Field, Baptiste Paul

9.

Mirage, Somaiya Daud

Dec. 13 ELLEN PRENTISS CAMPBELL. The Rockville writer and psychotherapist is the guest for “Fiction Imbued by Place: Rockville Stories,” part of the Glenview Mansion & Peerless Rockville Speaker Series. She has published a novel, The Bowl with Gold Seams, and a collection of short stories, Contents Under Pressure, both in 2016, and has also written short stories that are locally based. 7-9 p.m. Free.

F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre Social Hall, Rockville. 240-314-8660, rockvillemd.gov.

Crazy Rich Asians, Kevin Kwan

8.

The Real Lolita: The Kidnapping of Sally Horner and the Novel That Scandalized the World, Sarah Weinman

9.

Leading Colleges and Universities: Lessons From Higher Education Leaders, Stephen Joel Trachtenberg, Gerald B. Kauvar

10. Educated, Tara Westover

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

10. Illegal, Eoin Colfer, Andrew Donkin

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banter | SUBURBANOLOGY

BY APRIL WITT

EASY STREET

CONSIDER THE ORANGE. The orange I’m thinking of is the product that Whole Foods Market sold a few years back: prepeeled, then repackaged in a clear plastic clamshell container and sold for $5.99 a pound.

The internet blew up. Critics excoriated Whole Foods for removing the natural, biodegradable container every orange enters this world with—the peel—only to replace it with a plastic container and jack up the price. Tweeters, understandably, raged at the prospect of more plastic tossed into our oceans; they decried the plight of desperate dolphins swimming around with orange-scented plastic containers stuck to their snouts.

The Twitter world seemed shocked that the upscale grocer viewed its customers as so spoiled, stupid, privileged and impatient that they’d want to buy oranges pre-peeled. Whole Foods promptly apologized and pulled pre-peeled oranges from its shelves.

That was in 2016. Two years later, I’m thinking that we as a culture don’t know ourselves very well. One way or another,

we all want our oranges peeled.

“Busy, spoiled, lazy.” Those are the first words out of Casey Harris’ mouth when I remind her of the orange fiasco and ask what Whole Foods had revealed about its customers’ inclinations. Harris and her husband prefer to support local momand-pop businesses, she says. But these days they buy groceries from Whole Foods through Amazon—and get them delivered to their home in Bethesda.

She says this sheepishly even though the couple has a really good excuse: an infant daughter. “I’ve got major baby

64 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

brain right now,” Harris, 33, says as she pushes her daughter in a stroller near downtown Bethesda. “This is the first time I’ve been out of the house in a week.

“Convenience trumps everything right now,” she says. “It’s a click of a button on my phone and it’s done.”

That’s probably not going to change anytime soon for Harris and a lot of other people who can afford to spend a little money to buy time. I met Susan Brown while walking around downtown Bethesda one recent weekend.

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ILLUSTRATION BY ANNE BENTLEY

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banter | SUBURBANOLOGY Montgomery County Public Schools.

She packs her own two children’s school lunch bags with little packets of preportioned cookies because that’s so much easier than opening a big package of sweets, putting a few cookies in small baggies, then resealing the big cookie bag. She’s never calculated how much extra money it costs to buy the individual kid-size cookie packets. She doesn’t have the time.

Manisha Katsnelson, 36, of Silver Spring wouldn’t dream of buying a whole watermelon for her two kids. That would entail washing it, cutting it up, throwing away the rind and cleaning up the mess.

It’s so much more pleasant to buy precut watermelon, says Katsnelson, who works for a nonprofit freight company that transfers humanitarian aid supplies.

When one of her kids wants a quick snack, she says, “I can just pop a little

piece of watermelon in their mouth.”

Katsnelson grew up in a Maryland household where she and her four siblings did chores and her parents wouldn’t buy anything unless it was on sale and/or they had a coupon for it, she says. Now she and her husband do something her parents never would have: They pay someone to cut their lawn twice weekly in the growing season.

I was walking in Bethesda’s Edgemoor neighborhood this past spring when I stopped suddenly and wished I’d brought a camera with a wide-angle lens. Up and down both sides of the block and around the cul-de-sac, every property was busy with work crews.

There were construction crews, house painters, landscapers and a mobile car detailer. In the coming weeks, work crews all around the area will be doing what used to be a fun family activity:

66 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

decorating the front yard for the holidays. I always wonder where the family is while strangers are festooning their property, installing giant plastic menorahs, blowing up snowmen or wrapping red tinsel around white columns to make candy stripes. The family might well be inside binge-watching Game of Thrones.

Barbara Clapman, 73, doesn’t believe people are as busy as they think they are.

Clapman and her husband moved to Bethesda two years ago to be near two adult children and four grandchildren.

“People have lost touch with how to do things for themselves,” she says. “Even things that are simple seem to take too long.” She blames the internet—from nonstop emails to the nonstop streaming of entertainment. “It’s very seductive, and it cuts into time for real life,” she says.

I’ve lost track of how many British mysteries my husband and I have

FAMILY LAW

watched this year on Amazon or Netflix.

I’ve also lost track of how much money I’ve spent on disposable Swiffer cleaning products—dusters, expandable duster wands, floor wipes. Whizzing around my house waving the duster hardly feels like work, and sometimes I think it’s hardly working. It occurred to me recently that I couldn’t remember the last time I’d gotten down on my hands and knees and used a scrub brush and bucket to scour the natural stone tiles of my master bathroom floor. So I did it. I spent three hours scrubbing every inch of the bathroom floor, walls and shower.

The bathroom looked great. The experience was dreadful. I’m not giving up my Swiffer floor wipes ever.

Seema Takiya, Katsnelson’s childhood friend, says she realized how lazy the culture has become when scooters, owned by a company named Bird, arrived in the District early this year. People just grab a scooter, pay Bird through a phone app, then drop off the scooter wherever they want. “That is such a perfect business model,” Takiya, a defense contractor, says gleefully. “People are too lazy to walk now. I told my sister we need to come up with a business model based on people’s laziness.”

On Amazon Prime Day this year, Takiya purchased a Roomba robot vacuum cleaner. At first, she was leery of the contraption. She’d turn it on, then follow it around to make sure it didn’t pull down her curtains or yank out cable cords. She still won’t turn on her Roomba and leave it home alone cleaning. That would be creepy.

“You don’t trust your Roomba,” Katsnelson teases her.

“No,” Takiya says, laughing. But she wouldn’t dream of giving it up. “I can turn it on and it cleans while I’m taking a shower,” she says. That gives her more time to do fun things, like walking around downtown Bethesda with her friend while drinking a $3 cup of coffee. ■

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67

banter | HOMETOWN

BY STEVE ROBERTS

TRACING HIS ROOTS

IT WAS 2016 WHEN Leon Rodriguez first saw Cuba, the country where his parents met and his grandfather is buried. “I actually wept when I landed in Havana, in a way I have never wept as an adult,” he tells me. “I felt that I would never get there. You grow up on this side of the wall—in this case the wall was the Florida straits—and you’re never going to be able to go back to the other side of the wall.”

At the time, Rodriguez headed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, part of the Department of Homeland Security, and he was on an official mission to negotiate with Cuban counterparts. But the personal side of his trip was far more significant. “So much of everything I know about who I am is 68

based on stories I would hear for hours about my family’s life in that place,” he explains. “But I couldn’t touch it. I couldn’t see my father’s store, I couldn’t see my mother’s building, I couldn’t see my grandfather’s grave.”

The story of Cuban exiles fleeing after the Communist takeover in 1959 is a familiar one. What makes this tale different is that Leon’s family is Jewish, and Cuba was only one step in a journey that started more than 500 years ago and has ended—at least for now— in Montgomery County. The family was originally called Rodrik, a Sephardic surname that can be traced back to Spain and Portugal. Those countries expelled their Jewish populations in the late 15th century and they scattered to many

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lands, including the Ottoman Empire.

The Rodriks settled in a village called Kirklareli northwest of Istanbul, but a border war with Bulgaria drove them from their homes in 1912.

In 1923, when the modern state of Turkey was formed, Jews in the army “were subject to a lot of harassment and discrimination,” Rodriguez says. His grandfather Leon fled to Egypt, where he became a teller in a French bank.

By the 1930s, Leon Rodrik was on the move yet again, and since Sephardic Jews spoke ladino, an ancient form of Spanish, “it became a draw for a lot of Turkish Jews to go to Spanish-speaking countries, Cuba in particular,” Rodriguez says. “There was a pretty big community there. They were from the same towns

PHOTO BY DEB LINDSEY

For Leon Rodriguez, former head of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, a trip to Cuba provided the chance to connect with his family’s history

and all knew each other.”

Leon Rodrik changed his last name to Rodriguez and started a prosperous department store. But the Communist revolution, only 14 years after the end of World War II, terrified the Jewish community. “This was feeling a whole lot like Europe to people, and everybody hits the road,” says the younger Leon, who was named for his grandfather.

His mother’s family, the Polikars, had also emigrated from Turkey to Cuba.

His parents met at a party in Havana, married in July of 1961 and soon sought asylum in America, with his mother smuggling jewelry out of the country in the buttons of her dress. Rodriguez was born a year later, grew up in Miami and later went to Brown University and then Boston College Law School. He became a prosecutor in Brooklyn and moved

to the Washington area in 1994 when his new wife, Jill Schwartz, started her medical residency here.

The young couple settled in Kensington in 2001 when Jill was pregnant with their first child. They were drawn to the county’s good schools, large Jewish population and progressive activists who had come to the area “to do something important, something significant,” Leon says. “I liked the idea of my kids growing up around people with that way of seeing their lives.”

Rodriguez first entered local politics through Tom Perez, now chairman of the Democratic National Committee, who was running for the Montgomery County Council. “I was technically his finance chairman, I think I raised a total of 250 bucks,” Leon laughs. In 2004, the family moved to Garrett Park,

I have never been the one in charge of my family's finances until now.

Will I have a reliable income stream that lasts the rest of my life?

where they still live, and three years later Rodriguez became the county’s chief legal officer.

“In a position like that, you really become conscious of the incredible level of civic engagement in Montgomery County, more so probably than anywhere else in the country,” he recalls. On one issue, land use, the “incredible” level of participation drove him a bit crazy.

“I always say land use is like a wedding, it brings out every issue in your life—religious issues, emotional issues, political issues,” Rodriguez says. “So little land use issues became these big controversies.”

Rodriguez, now 56 and back in private law practice, took over U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in 2014, a job that drew heavily on his family’s history and values. His maternal grandfather,

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John Polikar, had been an ardent Zionist in Cuba and helped resettle Holocaust survivors after World War II. His own parents had been political refugees, and as he puts it, “I generally think refugees and immigrants are good for our economy and we need more of them, not less of them. But at the end of the day my views are really grounded in a more moral reason—partly what I learned in my faith, from our history as a people, but also very much tied in with the example of my grandfather.”

His job included periodic talks in Cuba and he was eager to visit the island, but his parents were fearful: “My father said, ‘The government knows everything, we’re just worried they’re going to use this as some way to mess with you.’ ” He ignored them and went anyway.

“I was already a bit of a mess on the

plane, truth be told, but then it really hit hard when I was standing there on this insanely hot tarmac looking at this bus station of an airport,” Leon tells me.

When I ask what he was thinking at that moment, he replies, “This is it. This is the place I never thought I could go to.” Then a co-worker who knew his family’s story said, “Welcome home.”

A Cuban counterpart invited him to dinner, and by sheer coincidence she lived in the same building where his mother had grown up. He asked to see their old apartment and found that the family mezuzah—a medallion containing a biblical scroll that Jews hang near their doorpost—was still there.

“It’s one of those things that may have some mystical significance and it may not, but it was still pretty powerful,” he recalls.

Even more powerful was visiting the grave of his grandfather Polikar, whose work with refugees had inspired Leon’s own career. The old Sephardic cemetery was “in a pretty significant state of disrepair,” but his mother had told him where to look and when he found the burial plot, he recited kaddish, an ancient Hebrew prayer of mourning.

The name on his grandfather’s tomb was Garzon Polikar, a Spanish version of his Hebrew name, Gershon, which means “stranger” or “exile.” But Gershon’s grandson is a stranger no longer.

He’s found a home here in Montgomery County. ■ Steve Roberts teaches journalism and politics at George Washington University. Send ideas for future columns to sroberts@gwu.edu.

“Moving to Maplewood was one of the smartest decisions that I ever made.”

Home ownership, quality health care, and superior services in a community where each resident’s voice is heard.

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Fitzgerald’s Auto Mall “When we first opened we were downtown in Bethesda in 1966,” recalls Dottie Fitzgerald.

Her older brother Jack had concluded the sale agreement on a napkin at the Hot Shoppes on Connecticut Avenue. “The first dealership was called Colonial Dodge. Dodge was all we sold.”

The Fitzgeralds founded their dealerships long before Bethesda was the Bethesda we know today. Before the growth of the National Institutes of Health and the National Naval Medical Center. The original Colonial Dodge was in a converted gas station on Old Georgetown Road.

“The biggest concern we had when we opened Colonial Dodge on Rockville Pike was that we didn’t want our longtime customers to think we were moving far away. We were just up the road a piece and we moved the weekend of my birthday.”

“We’ve seen lots of changes, not just in Bethesda,” says Dottie. “Today we sell more imports than domestics, with Hyundai and Subaru on Rockville Pike. But the first import was actually the Dodge Colt made by Mitsubishi. We added Peugeot and Alfa Romeo later. We were excited to move because all the equipment at the Rockville Pike location was state of the art. But they still only had one restroom for women. Things have changed.”

Thanks to hard work, determination and certainly the loyalty of their customers, Fitzgerald Auto Malls is now 52 years old and has sold hundreds of thousands of new and used cars over the last several decades. “We started as one dealership with one car on the showroom floor, which was also the office and parts department,” remembers Dottie. “We owe it all to our customers and our associates, some who are now third generation.”

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21 Locations in Rockville, Wheaton, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Frederick, Annapolis, Lexington Park, Chambersburg, PA, Clearwater, FL 301-881-4000 www.FitzMall.com

HILARY SCHWAB; HISTORICAL IMAGE COURTESY

DOTTIE & JACK FITZGERALD

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Suburban Hospital

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“As the county's only designated trauma center and a primary stroke center, Suburban Hospital provides highly specialized, worldclass care to residents throughout Montgomery County and the greater Washington region.”

8600 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, MD 20814 301-896-3100 www.SuburbanHospital.org

COURTESY PHOTO

Suburban Hospital, a member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, has been an essential part of our local community for 75 years. As the county’s only designated trauma center and a primary stroke center, Suburban Hospital serves more than 70,000 patients annually and provides highly specialized, world-class care to residents throughout Montgomery County and the greater Washington region.

Suburban Hospital first opened its doors on Dec. 13, 1943, as a 130-bed hospital to accommodate the growing World War II-era population in Bethesda. Today, to meet current demands and address the growing healthcare needs of the community, Suburban Hospital is building for the future with a $275 million campus transformation, including a 300,000 square foot clinical addition scheduled to open in 2020.

The Suburban Hospital campus will be in the same convenient location on Old Georgetown Road, just north of downtown Bethesda and directly across from the National Institutes of Health, with which the hospital has an important medical partnership. The new building will be adjacent to the current building and connected by a bright and airy breezeway. The hospital’s plans comprise a number of enhanced and expanded services to better serve patients and their families, including high-tech operating rooms with hybrid and robotic technologies and stateof-the-art cardiac catheterization labs.

The clinical addition will offer all private medical and surgical patient rooms, onsite office access to medical specialists, a patient and family resource center, the Marriott Education and Conference Center and a meditation space. Learn more about Suburban Hospital’s campus transformation at SuburbanFuture.org.

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Jacky Schultz, President, and Barton Leonard, MD, Head of Suburban’s Medical Staff & Emergency Department

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The Green Meters Greenhouse

Green Acres School

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Green Acres ca. 1930s

“If a student makes it through school curious, determined, joyful and compassionate, what are their chances of being successful?”

11701 Danville Drive North Bethesda, MD 20852 301-881-4100 | admission@greenacres.org www.greenacres.org

HILARY SCHWAB

“We’re finally seeing the education industry embrace progressive ideals for learning,” says Head of School Neal Brown, Ed.D. “Research now confirms what teachers at Green Acres have known since 1934: that engaging work is almost always challenging—and that academic rigor and love of learning can go hand in hand.”

For almost 85 years, Green Acres has championed a progressive approach, which includes supporting children and their development, fostering in them a love of learning and a deep commitment to social justice, nurturing creativity and innovation, and inspiring students to be agents of change and creative thinkers.

“It’s not so much what you know,” says Brown. “It’s what you can do with what you know.”

While developing as strong readers, writers, public speakers, mathematicians and scientists, Green Acres students become independent, critical thinkers capable of much more than memorizing facts and figures. Through engaging projects and multifaceted problems, the school challenges students academically, ethically and socially—and views these realms as intertwined.

Projects regularly incorporate topics of diversity, fostering an inclusive learning community.

With small class sizes, teachers take a holistic approach to each child. There’s traditional classroom work, but also playing, planting, designing projects, acting, building, singing, inventing and service learning. “Learning is joyful,” says Brown. “As a result, our students move on to success and are regularly described as bright, confident, self-reliant, thoughtful, socially adept and highly engaged. Green Acres students graduate from their 8th grade year with a strong sense of who they are, both as learners and as members of society.”

Middle School Head Peter Klam agrees, noting how he frequently hears from high schools that Green Acres’ graduates are exceptionally enthusiastic, optimistic and academically engaged. “If a student makes it through school curious, determined, joyful and compassionate, what are their chances of being successful? More importantly, if they have these characteristics and apply them broadly, what are their chances of being happy?”

HILARY SCHWAB

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Kindergarten Homecorner time

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Woodmont Ave. Bethesda Branch Team staff.

Below: The first dollar bill deposited at EagleBank's Bethesda Branch

EagleBank

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“It’s you, our customers, we celebrate today, and 20 years of providing creative financial solutions, sharing and participating in community achievements, and enjoying all the good memories and friendships made along the way.”

7830 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, MD 20814 301-986-1800 www.EagleBankCorp.com

HILARY SCHWAB

EagleBank was born in 1998, with offices in Bethesda, Silver Spring and Rockville. Now celebrating 20 years of community business banking, time has flown since a dedicated group of energetic business owners and experienced bankers decided that a local financial resource that could offer instant access to top management and provide local decision making was needed for our business community.

“We’ve been growing and earning customer relationships ever since and now provide 20 branches in the metro area,” says Chairman and CEO Ronald Paul. “Our celebration is your celebration. It’s all about the customer relationships, the community we all call home, and the many organizations and individuals we’ve enjoyed working with and meeting over the last 20 years. That’s the heart of our success and celebration,” says Paul.

“We listen. We invest in technology and we design services our customers ask for and need,” says Sr. EVP Susan G. Riel. “As clients grow and create their own histories, we grow right beside them and keep up with community and client needs. We are headquartered right here for quick response, while other banks must check with a regional or national office. And, our lending strength endured during weak economic times to provide funding when client opportunities just could not wait—that’s a proud part of our rich history.”

No business, large or small, wants to go it alone without a strong financial partner they trust and can call anytime to discuss an opportunity and get answers. “That’s a mutually beneficial relationship, which is how success is created, growth is continued and the next 20 years of success is achieved,” says Paul.

“It’s you, our customers, we celebrate today, and 20 years of providing creative financial solutions, sharing and participating in community achievements, and enjoying all the good memories and friendships made along the way.”

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Ronald D. Paul, Chairman and CEO

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The new Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center opens in late summer 2019 at 12100 Plum Orchard Drive off Route 29.

Below: Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center welcomed its first baby in 1981. Today, the hospital cares for more than 4,500 babies annually.

Adventist HealthCare

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“From the very beginning, we were concerned with the care of the whole person. We were committed to caring for our community, and we still are today.”

820 W. Diamond Ave., Suite 600 Gaithersburg, MD 20878 301-315-3030 info@AdventistHealthCare.com www.AdventistHealthCare.com

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It’s been over 100 years since the Washington Sanitarium—which later became Adventist HealthCare Washington Adventist Hospital—opened in Takoma Park, Maryland as the first hospital in the county.

Since then, Adventist HealthCare has brought a lot of “firsts” to Montgomery County and the region, including the first maternity services in 1916, the first behavioral health unit in 1949, and the first heart surgery in the D.C. region in 1962.

“From the very beginning, we were concerned with the care of the whole person,” says Adventist HealthCare President and CEO Terry Forde. “We were committed to caring for our community, and we still are today.”

In 1979, Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center opened its doors, becoming the first hospital in northern Montgomery County. In 2001, Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation opened on the Shady Grove campus as Montgomery County’s first and only rehabilitation hospital. In 2013, the Aquilino Cancer Center also opened on the Shady Grove campus, becoming the county’s first and only comprehensive cancer center.

Today, Adventist HealthCare still stands as the largest provider in the county with three hospitals, numerous urgent care and imaging facilities, home care services, primary and specialty care doctor offices, and the Lourie Center for Children’s Social & Emotional Wellness. The system is expanding, with the new Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center due to open in late summer 2019.

In addition to the organization’s Joint Commission Accreditation for its quality care, Adventist HealthCare has also received national recognition for heart, stroke, cancer, orthopedics, obstetrics, rehabilitation and home care.

So, what is the secret to not only surviving for more than 100 years, but thriving? “We’ve stayed true to our mission for over a century,” says Forde. “Every decision we make is centered around improving the mental, physical, and spiritual health of our community.”

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Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation, the county’s only inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation hospital, is nationally recognized for its stroke, amputee, brain injury and spinal cord injury programs.

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Chevy Chase Cars JOHN F. BOWIS, PRESIDENT & OWNER

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“To this day, excellent service and customer satisfaction are the backbone of our dealership.”

Chevy Chase Cars 7725 Wisconsin Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-657-4000 www.chevychasecars.com

TONY J. LEWIS

The history behind Chevy Chase Cars has all the hallmarks of a great American success story: a self-made immigrant spends his life savings to pursue his dream. Through hard work, determination and resilience, the young entrepreneur grows his company into one of the most successful dealerships in the country. Eighty years later, Chevy Chase Cars is the oldest retail business in Bethesda that has operated continuously in the same location.

Established in 1939 by Art Bowis in what was then the sleepy little town of Bethesda, Chevy Chase Cars is now run by Art’s grandson, John Bowis. “When my grandfather purchased this property, there wasn’t much out here except for a farm across the street,” says John. Shortly after Art opened his dealership, World War II began and General Motors stopped building new cars. Art kept his business afloat by traveling up and down the East Coast, buying used cars to sell and using spare parts to repair customers’ cars. By the time the war ended, he had built strong relationships and established a solid reputation in the community. “To this day, excellent service and customer satisfaction are the backbone of our dealership,” says John. In 1990, John took the reins from his father, Fred Bowis, who built their iconic five-story building and grew the company through smart business strategies and brilliant marketing.

As a family business with deep roots in the community, Chevy Chase Cars has raised funds for numerous local charities, including more than $1 million for The Children’s Inn at NIH. “Community and family are very important to us,” says John. “Over the years, we’ve had multiple people from about 30 different families work on our team. We have a dozen employees who’ve been with us for 20, 30, even 50 years. My grandfather would be proud.”

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Longtime Chevy Chase residents still remember when the Brookville House of Magic closed its doors in 1985 turning a page on the long and vibrant history of the old farm located at 7101 Brookville Road. Originally built as a private school in the early 1920s, the property quickly turned into a gathering place for neighbor—from tea house, to burger joint, to German restaurant to venue for children’s shows.

In 1985, “magic” was still in the air and when the late Marcel Montagnier, original owner of Bethesda’s Le Vieux Logis, and Alain Roussel, formerly executive chef at the world renowned Maxim’s in Paris, joined forces to open La Ferme, the trick was masterful.

Thirty-three years later, La Ferme has turned delighted diners into faithful regulars and is a staple of the area's culinary scene. From escargots and sweetbreads to Chateaubriand, sole Meunière or trout amandine and a Grand Marnier soufflé, patrons enjoy classic French fare complimented by an extensive wine selection. The charming and romantic atmosphere, gracious hospitality, attentive service and live piano music always offers a memorable experience.

Countless special occasions include birthdays and anniversaries to weddings and bar mitzvahs. Recently, acclaimed food critic Tom Sietsema of the Washington Post wrote “La Ferme deserves your attention for more than just its elder status and is one of the area’s most pleasant places to catch up with friends, do business or toast a big day.”

Three years ago, Roussel, who was awarded the prestigious title of “Maitre Cuisinier de France” in 1997, launched an intimate new bar area to reinvigorate the “Old Lady.” With the loyal collaboration of General Manager Guillaume de Decker, Executive Chef Scott Chambers and Dining Room Manager Prasad Perera, La Ferme is bustling like never ever before. Come see for yourself, and you will be enchanted.

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“La Ferme deserves your attention for more than just its elder status and is one of the area’s most pleasant places to catch up with friends, do business or toast a big day.” Tom Sietsema, Washington Post

7101 Brookville Road Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-986-5255 lafermerestaurant@gmail.com www.lafermerestaurant.com

HILARY SCHWAB; HISTORICAL IMAGE COURTESY

La Ferme Restaurant

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Alain Roussel, Owner, Maitre Cuisinier de France

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Attorneys from the firm’s Estates and Trusts practice group.

In 1975, attorneys William E. Furey, Devin J. Doolan and W. Shepherdson Abell founded the law firm of Furey, Doolan & Abell, LLP. For more than 40 years the firm has served clients in Montgomery County, across Maryland and throughout the D.C. metro region. As a long– serving business in Montgomery County, the firm has always believed it has a responsibility to give back to the community. Many of the employees do pro bono work, serve on the boards of area institutions and volunteer at local charitable organizations.

While co-founders Doolan and Abell have mostly stepped aside from practicing law full time, the firm continues in the capable hands of the next generation of partners and associates.

“We are very proud of the tradition of client service, ethics and integrity that Devin and Shep have instilled in the firm, and in all of us who will carry on the work of the firm into the future,” says Rob Grant, the firm’s managing partner. “We are proud of the work we do, the recognition we receive from our clients and peers, our record of results, and our contributions to the legal profession. As partners these are the values we want to pass on to our associates.”

After many years in Chevy Chase, the firm relocated to Bethesda in 2016 and is pleased to be part of the “New Bethesda” growing up along Wisconsin Avenue. The partners believe that the relocation will strengthen their ability to continue to offer the personalized and effective representation in estate planning, estate and trust administration, real estate, employment, and litigation matters for individual and corporate clients for many years to come.

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“We are very proud of the tradition of client service, ethics and integrity that Devin and Shep have instilled in the firm, and in all of us who will carry on the work of the firm into the future.”

7600 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 600 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-652-6880 info@fdalaw.com www.fdalaw.com

HILARY SCHWAB

Furey, Doolan & Abell, LLP

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Co-founders Devin Doolan and Shep Abell, in front of the three firm founders’ portraits.

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The Oval Today: The lighthouse, donated in 2012 by the Slavin Family Foundation serves as a beacon of hope to Bethesda campus residents.

Below: The Baptist Home for Children: Boys enjoy a game of baseball on the Oval, the main play space for residents when it was still an orphanage.

The National Center for Children and Families (NCCCF) is constantly evolving. From their 1915 founding as an orphanage in the District of Columbia, they’ve transformed into a responsible and flexible community institution which continues to meet the needs of the diverse children, youth and families it serves throughout the D.C. metro area. From their Bethesda headquarters, NCCF is driven by a great sense of community responsibility for vulnerable children and families who live in the midst of one of the most educated and affluent regions in the world.

Nationally accredited and award winning, NCCF is synonymous with quality and continually exceeds the standard of care for their clients. One of NCCF’s core principles is that a community is responsible for supporting those in need. By providing volunteer opportunities and facilitating donations of money and goods, NCCF serves as a fulcrum for the local community to care for its own.

NCCF’s residential programs serve homeless families, victims of domestic violence, and children and adolescents who have been removed from their families due to abuse and neglect and/or behavioral challenges. NCCF now propels more than 50,000 children, youth and families annually into an improved quality of life through a wide continuum of 21 programs within the National Capital region (such as emergency shelters and transitional housing, therapeutic residential care, foster care and adoption, teen parent services, and communityand school-based prevention services), while relying on community education and training, volunteerism and advocacy. NCCF seeks to lead through transformation and inclusivity.

“Our hundred year history propels us forward, but NCCF’s future is responsive to the needs of the community. We’ve captured the benefit of experience without being held siege to it,” says NCCF Communications Director Rachel Poyatt Spassiani. “As a result, the more we change the more we stay true to our original mission to support a better life for everyone in the community.”

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“The more we change the more we stay true to our original mission to support a better life for everyone in the community.”

6301 Greentree Road Bethesda, MD 20817 301-365-4480 rspassiani@nccf-cares.org www.nccf-cares.org

TONY J. LEWIS; HISTORICAL PHOTO COURTESY

National Center for Children and Families

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The Youth Activity Center & Louise Duncan Memorial Chapel: Overlooking both the Oval and the lighthouse, NCCF’s newest building includes space for art, music, and a chapel for use by clients, staff, and volunteers.

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(L-R): Olivia Nakkash, Jason Dahl, Natalie Atabek, Alp Atabek, Teri Raad, Dennis Elias, and Christopher Vanderkolk.

Not pictured: Jensen Lorea.

AFS Financial Group, LLC

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“We look forward to continuing to bring our clients peace of mind.

We help them plan for tomorrow so they can live for today.”

Securities and Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser.

7700 Old Georgetown Road, Suite 630 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-961-8407 info@afsfinancialgroup.com www.afsfinancialgroup.com

ELLIOTT O'DONOVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

When Alp Atabek opened his tax planning firm in 1984, he intended to focus exclusively on small business accounting and tax preparation. Four years later, he began offering his clients wealth management services as well—and he was hooked. “With my tax practice, I felt I was always working on my clients’ pasts,” says Atabek, managing partner of AFS Financial Group.

“When I began offering financial and investment planning services, I was able to help my clients shape their futures. I discovered a true passion for guiding clients through complex financial situations and having a meaningful impact on their lives,” he says.

Since then, AFS Financial Group has grown into a successful investment advisory firm with a robust team of experts from diverse backgrounds, including accounting, law, long-term care and tax planning. The team boasts longevity as well. Jason Dahl, director of financial planning, has worked alongside Atabek for over 11 years and Olivia Nakkash, director of operations, recently celebrated her seventh year with the company.

“We take the time to get to know our clients and consider all of the components that go into their overall financial picture,” says Natalie Atabek, director of communications. “Our outstanding team—from our financial planning associates and investment analysts to our client service associates—works together to help our clients achieve their goals.” Outside the office, the group supports several local organizations including SOME and A Wider Circle, where Dahl has served on the board of directors for over 10 years. The team also offers workshops on a range of financial planning topics to clients and local companies.

As AFS Financial Group celebrates 30 years of success, the team is excited for what’s ahead. “We look forward to continuing to bring our clients peace of mind,” says Alp Atabek.

“We help them plan for tomorrow so they can live for today.”

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TONY J. LEWIS

Alp Atabek

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YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase

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“We will always live our core values of caring honesty respect and responsibility so that all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity at the Y. And we will always call on others to do the same.”

–Kevin Washington, president and CEO, YMCA of the USA

9401 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, MD 20814 301-530-3725 www.ymcadc.org

COURTESY PHOTOS

On Old Georgetown Road since 1963, Bethesda residents have spent happy times in the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase's pools, camps, tennis courts and other activities for over 55 years.

Highly respected in the community, collaborations include NIH, Suburban Hospital, BCC Rotary, Kiwanis, chamber of commerce, Leadership Montgomery and Whole Foods.

The YMCA stands for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, and the community recognizes the Y as a place to bring their families for healthy programs. “We will always live our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility so that all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity at the Y. And we will always call on others to do the same,” says Kevin Washington, president and CEO, YMCA of the USA. For 70 years in Montgomery County, the YMCA has provided programs and services for all, regardless of ability to pay. Partnering with the Rotary Club, the Y hosts the Thanksgiving Turkey Chase 10k/2mile fundraiser, celebrating its 36th anniversary with over 9,000 runners. Proceeds subsidize individuals in need.

Today, the YMCA must raise $30 million for a new state-of-the-art facility. Phase One will be completed at the beginning of 2019 and include new locker rooms, expanded wellness center, community rooms and youth development venues.

Programming for all ages will include: • Tennis, swimming and pickle ball • Family programs encouraging parental participation in recreation and health • Civic and nutrition classes, health/wellness education and mentoring • Expanded group exercise such as yoga, spin, Pilates and martial arts • Diabetes prevention program • Meditation butterfly garden Phases Two and Three include a regulation basketball court, saltwater pool, rooftop venue for community events, a mind/body center and a culinary studio with nutrition lectures.

The revitalization honors the past, recognizes the present while embracing the future.

HILARY SCHWAB

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(L-R): Carla Larrick, Vice President of Operations, YMCA Bethesda Chevy Chase, YMCA Metropolitan Washington; Pamela Curran, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, YMCA Metropolitan Washington

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The Promenade

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Above: Harriet Seidel, former resident of The Promenade, and Jim Nickelsporn, former President of The Promenade Tenants Association (circa 1980) and current Board President

“The Promenade is the best value in luxury resort-style, high-rise living in Bethesda.”

5225 Pooks Hill Road Bethesda, MD 20814 301-530-7200 www.thepromenade.org

HILARY SCHWAB

Nestled in a lush 24-acre gated estate in Bethesda, The Promenade defines luxury living, with resort-style amenities and splendid views across Montgomery County.

The community’s storied history stretches back almost a century. The grounds once housed the sprawling estate of Nation’s Business publisher and civic leader Merle Thorpe.

The property then served as home to the exiled Norwegian Royal Family during World War II. In the 1970s, developer Nathan Landow built the high-rise complex that would “cater to the luxury-recreation market,” according to The Washington Post. The complex included indoor and outdoor pools, a tennis complex, fitness center with classes, hair salon, dry cleaner, grocery store, massage therapy, and a bar, restaurant, and lounge. All of these amenities, now updated, Promenade residents still enjoy!

In the 1980s, The Promenade was converted to a cooperative community and has kept pace with the times ever since, like many of the region’s most prestigious residences. The community is collectively owned and managed by residents. They are shareholders in the non-profit corporation, electing directors to oversee management and maintenance. Unlike a condominium, the monthly co-op fee covers: property taxes, utilities, master insurance policy, cable TV, management, 24-hour front desk, gated entry, garage parking, pool, gym and tennis club memberships, and much more. Located close to downtown Bethesda with easy access to the Capital Beltway and I-270 for a smooth commute, The Promenade enjoys Ride On bus service from its palatial main lobby to the Metro.

“The Promenade is the best value in luxury resort-style, high-rise living in Bethesda,” says Jim Nickelsporn, President of the Board of Directors. Residences range from 630 to over 2,500 square feet and range from $165,000 to $600,000. The Promenade makes every day seem like a vacation. This building must be seen to be believed! It’s smoke-free, too!

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HILARY SCHWAB

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The Stuart & Maury Realtors Team For more than six decades, Stuart & Maury, Inc. has served Bethesda and the communities nearby, helping generations of area buyers and sellers with their real estate needs.

The company was founded in 1956 as a family-run business and has maintained that friendly, supportive atmosphere throughout its long history. “We’ve been here on Bethesda Avenue since 1991 when the redevelopment of this part of Bethesda was just beginning. We watched all the restaurants, boutique shops and trendy businesses grow up around us,” says Principal Broker Robert Jenets. “Even as the Washington metro area has evolved, Stuart & Maury has stayed true to its founders’ principles of professional, expert and personalized service to our clients.”

Agile and sophisticated, the company is a full-service brokerage that handles residential property listings, sales and leasing with a separate property management division. Visual design and cutting-edge technology experts are on staff to help with whatever services are needed. At the same time, it is run like a family business still, with a collegial and comfortable work environment where everyone helps each other, clients are taken care of no matter what their needs and everyone enjoys their work. While serving all areas of Maryland and the District of Columbia, they offer particular expertise in the neighborhoods of Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Washington, D.C. Perhaps it’s the family heritage that has led to their longevity, or the fortunate founding of an excellent real estate firm in a great location so long ago. In any case, their long history of distinguished service has earned Stuart & Maury its excellent, well-deserved reputation and the respect of the entire real estate community.

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4833 Bethesda Ave., Suite 200 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-654-3200 robert@robertjenets.com www.stuartandmaury.com

DARREN HIGGINS

STUART & MAURY, INC., REALTORS

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Westmoreland Children’s Center

MICHAEL VENTURA

The reason for the enduring success over time at Westmoreland Children's Center (WCC) is the extraordinarily high quality of their people.

Everyone involved in the school have an exceptional commitment to students, families and the community.

One of those who perfectly exemplifies this is Libby Dubner-King, who has been at WCC for 25 years as a teacher, site director and now executive director. Her son attended the school, too. “I’m fortunate to run a preschool that I believe in and love,” she says. “Our culture is inspired by play and the thrill of discovery.”

“I’m especially proud that our families come back to visit us after graduating from our program. And, even more wonderful, we have students now whose parents were once students here!”

“Bringing a sense of wonder to a child is magical for me. I enjoy watching them grow into their little personalities and develop a love of playing and exploring, learning self-help skills and making friends.”

WCC delivers innovative programs on exercise, play and music, all primary elements in programs. Children learn at an individual pace with caring, well-trained teachers who are attentive to each child’s particular needs and who create a warm, loving, and safe place to learn. A neighborhood school, it also attracts children from D.C. and Virginia. The school offers the only National Association for the Education of Young Children-accredited program in the 20816 Zip code. It is also a part of the USDA Food Program serving healthy and nutritious meals.

At the three WCC locations along Massachusetts Avenue, WCC helps preschoolers develop a love of play, exploring and lifelong friendships.

Three Convenient Centers in Bethesda 5148 Massachusetts Ave. Bethesda, MD 20816 301-229-7161 www.wccbethesda.com BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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In 1989, George Myers put up his shingle. At the time, he was working alone designing small residential projects. His talent and attentive client service soon brought new opportunities. From this modest start, GTM Architects was born.

Today, GTM is an award-winning, 50-person firm, licensed in over 20 states nationwide. In addition to its highly regarded single-family residential work, GTM is an expert in commercial interiors, retail and multifamily projects.

Mr. Myers believes the firm’s long-term success comes from the relationships he and his partners have developed over their many years in business here in Bethesda, where the firm has operated from since 2004. “Our philosophy is to treat people the way we would want to be treated,” he says. “As a result, our clients, and the people here at GTM who serve them, tend to stay with us for a long time. Work with good people and success follows.”

At GTM, designers work in collaborative studios, each led by experienced professionals on specific project types. This structure encourages collaboration among the design team, and enables the staff to cultivate the expertise required to most effectively serve clients. Regardless of project type or size, or which member of GTM’s staff is engaged, clients work with responsive, courteous and talented professionals who bring vision, creativity and passion to their work. GTM has always prioritized client wants and needs above all else.

As GTM looks forward to its next 25-30 years here in Bethesda, partner Steve Mulholland sums up GTM’s model for success. “Our business is about listening and helping our clients realize their objectives.” This is a philosophy GTM never plans to change.

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7735 Old Georgetown Road, Suite 700 Bethesda, MD 20814 240-333-2000 general-info@gtmarchitects.com www.gtmarchitects.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

GTM Architects

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Test of Time

ADAM FREEDMAN

Boone & Sons Jewelers Boone & Sons is one of the Washington area’s oldest family-run jewelers. French Boone founded the store in 1966 and today three generations of Boones run the locations in Chevy Chase, Washington, D.C. and McLean. At any given time, a family member is present to assist customers.

A total of 10 Boones work for the company today. “And most of the non-Boone employees have been with the company for 20 years or more – so they might as well be family,” says Darryl, French’s son and current president. Familiar faces make the experience at Boone & Sons very personal. In most cases a client has the advantage of not only working with someone who knows them, but also their jewelry preferences and purchase history.

French Boone created the store with the quality and service of the world’s finest jewelers but blended with the intimate, personal feel of a local business. “Not only are we a fullservice jeweler, but we strive to have the finest quality at the most competitive price,” says Darryl. “We’re extremely flexible and service-oriented, and really do all we can to make sure everyone who makes a purchase is happy.” French taught his family that it’s more important to keep a relationship than to make a sale.

There’s also a wonderful generational aspect of the business that coincides with their generations of customers. That’s one of the biggest draws for a family business, according to Darryl. “We’re relationship-driven. We don’t see people as customers making a purchase as much as they are like friends and family.” Boone & Sons has been voted “Best Jewelry Store” by Bethesda Magazine’s readers several years running.

5550 The Hills Plaza Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-657-2144 www.booneandsons.com

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(L-R): Sean Parker, General Manager Gaithersburg; Tim Giles, General Manager Silver Spring; Doug Kelly, Vice President Sales & Marketing; Gary Bowman; President & CEO; Jen Purdy, Marketing Manager

TW Perry is the largest independent, pro-sales building materials dealer in the Mid-Atlantic.

It's a hometown success story that began in 1911 when Thomas W. Perry opened a feedstock operation in Chevy Chase, Maryland. The area was a rural outpost, but Tom was in the right place at the right time. With the growth of suburbs in the '50s and '60s, he started selling building supplies and the business expanded rapidly. Other locations were added. The Gaithersburg location became the first “home center” in the area, serving both contractors and homeowners.

A group of senior management purchased the company from the Perry family in 1999.

TW Perry now has eight locations, serving the needs of residential contractors, builders and residents in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. The company offers lumber, trusses, engineered framing components, windows, doors, hardware, decking, railing, paint, power tools, and more than 250 in-stock moulding profiles.

“Our service goes beyond supplies,” says Gary Bowman, president and CEO. “Our salespeople, support teams and counter sales staff are the best trained and most knowledgeable in the industry. We listen to your needs and help you determine the best materials for your projects.” That high level of service also includes jobsite visits, one-on-one consultations and next-day delivery of in-stock material. Warehouse management, dispatch and delivery practices are designed to get customers what they need, and deliver it when and where they need it.

The result? For more than 100 years, TW Perry has enjoyed an extremely high level of customer loyalty and satisfaction. The company has earned accolades within the industry, among humanitarian organizations they support, as a workplace, and as a vendor and dealer for many quality brands.

100 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

8101 Snouffer Road Gaithersburg, MD 20879 301-840-9600 marketing@twperry.com www.twperry.com

DARREN HIGGINS

TW Perry

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Test of Time

Deb Levy

COURTESY PHOTO

SENIOR HOME LENDING ADVISOR, CHASE The expansion of JPMorgan Chase’s branch network into the greater Washington, DC area means local customers will have access to its award-winning banking services for life’s most important moments.

When lifelong Washingtonian and Senior Home Lending Advisor Deb Levy read about the expansion earlier this year, she jumped at the opportunity to join the team.

Deb began her career with the then Chase Bank of Maryland and Chase Personal Financial Services in 1985 while attending The University of Maryland at night.

“I basically grew up at Chase, learned how to value my clients, approach a loan, analyze income and every facet of the mortgage industry. I still utilize these skills daily and remember my time at Chase fondly.”

The values she learned led her to be selected “Best Mortgage Broker” by the readers of Bethesda Magazine from 2012 through 2016.

“So much has changed since we started in the mortgage industry; technology has made the process simpler and streamlined,” she says. “However, remaining the same is the customer experience; the personal understanding, listening and advising our clients for their important home financing decisions.”

Joining Deb is her assistant of 13 years, Lisa Bennett. Deb is thrilled about coming home to Chase, where she began her 32-year career. Deb’s passion is consulting homebuyers and making the dream of homeownership a reality.

All home lending products are subject to credit and property approval. Rates, program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Not all products are available in all states or for all amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply.

Home lending products offered by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ©2018 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

1401 New York Ave. NW Washington, DC 20005 301-332-7758 | Deb.Levy@chase.com homeloan.chase.com/deb.levy NMLS ID: 481255

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Bullis School Founded in 1930 as a small military prep school for boys, Bullis School now has over 800 students on its co-ed 102-acre Potomac campus. “While we continue to change and evolve, we maintain connections to the ideas and beliefs of our founder, Commander Bullis,” says Bobby Pollicino, principal of the Upper School. “Commander Bullis believed in the potential of every student, and that is just as true at Bullis School today,” says Pollicino.

Bullis continues to focus on individual student needs; teachers regularly introduce new programs to address varied strengths and interests. “The traditional educational landscape is no longer enough for our students,” says Pollicino. “They need to be given new challenges.”

Bullis is introducing a new “Discovery Days” program in the spring. K-12 students will be given four to nine school days to explore opportunities that aren’t available in a traditional classroom, such as building a boat out of recyclable materials or analyzing the physics behind Hollywood superheroes. The Discovery Center opened last fall and includes a “makerspace” and fabrication lab and the Innovation Center for Entrepreneurship. “The buildings are a great back drop, but it’s really about the people,” says Kira Orr, assistant principal of the Upper School.

Orr, an alumna, coached basketball at Bullis before going on to coach college basketball in New York. But when she fell ill, and Bullis hosted a blood drive on her behalf, Orr was determined to return to her alma mater. “I called the school and said I’m ready to come back. I’ll do anything,” says Orr. She says it was the welcoming, supportive culture that makes Bullis so special. “The community always comes together and rallies around individuals in need,” says Orr. 102 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

“Commander Bullis believed in the potential of every student, and that is just as true at Bullis School today.”

10601 Falls Road Potomac, MD 20854 301-299-8500 www.bullis.org/

DARREN HIGGINS; HISTORICAL IMAGE COURTESY

BOBBY POLLICINO AND KIRA ORR

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Test of Time

Stein Sperling Partners

COURTESY PHOTO

Stein Sperling Bennett De Jong Driscoll PC Forty years ago, Stein Sperling founding partners Paul Stein, Don Sperling and Millard Bennett set out to create a law firm that focused on making a positive and innovative difference in the way law is practiced. “We wanted to create an environment where talented attorneys with a passion for practicing law could collaborate with colleagues who shared that passion,” explains Bennett. Stein elaborates: “We didn’t get here by accident. The driving idea behind Stein Sperling has been to build something unique and strong from within, combining individual strengths into a stronger whole.”

Headquartered in Rockville, Stein Sperling and its 50 attorneys and six offices serve clients in the metropolitan Washington area and beyond. The firm’s areas of practice include business, civil litigation, tax, family law, estates and trusts, employment law, real estate, personal injury and criminal defense. Firm partners credit the firm’s steady growth and success to its unique culture. As attorney Monica Harms explains: “We want our lawyers to focus on areas of law where they have a particular passion. Our model is about harnessing those individual passions into a collective energy dedicated to serving our clients’ needs.”

Stein Sperling’s overriding philosophy translates directly to its client service. “For us, it’s about listening, being attentive, empathizing and responding quickly and proactively to our clients’ needs and wants,” says attorney Jeff Schwaber. “We understand how legal issues affect our clients, often in a very profound and personal way. We want to relate to their issues, stand in their shoes and ultimately communicate and advocate for what is important to them.”

25 West Middle Lane Rockville, MD 20850 301-340-2020 www.steinsperling.com

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3rd grade students using the engineering design process to develop a system to use the power of water to do work.

“NPS excels in providing a strong academic program, coupled with character education and teaching the students to become global citizens in an ever-changing world,” says Head of School Malcolm Lester.

At NPS, teachers celebrate childhood, the time of life when the greatest leaps of learning occur.

“Childhood gets our full attention. Our faculty and staff are experts at helping children learn and grow—intellectually, socially, emotionally and spiritually,” notes Lower Division Director Laura Primrose, who recently celebrated 25 years of teaching at the school.

Plans for a combined nursery and elementary school as an educational mission of National Presbyterian Church (NPC) were first presented in 1961. The school opened in 1969, coinciding with NPC’s move to the Nebraska Avenue site of the Hillcrest Children's Center in Tenleytown, DC. The school was initially a cooperative program for three- and fouryear olds and, after gradual and deliberate expansion, the first sixth grade graduated in 1986.

“Building on this illustrious 50-year history, NPS has a bright future indeed,” adds Lester. Today, NPS offers 300 boys and girls from age three to grade six the highest quality education in an environment where children feel loved and respected. Students are challenged by an engaging academic program that blends tradition and innovation. The emphasis on the school’s Core Values helps students learn and practice what it means to live morally and ethically.

“We provide children the guidance, challenge and support they need to develop as successful learners and good people. Our graduates go on to great success in middle school where they are known for academic sophistication, confidence and compassion,” says Susanne Rusan, director of upper division and outplacement.

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4121 Nebraska Ave. NW Washington, DC 20016 202-537-7500 school@nps-dc.org www.nps-dc.org

JAMES KEGLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

National Presbyterian School (NPS)

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The Meltzer Group ALAN MELTZER

COURTESY PHOTO

Alan Meltzer learned the importance of a hard day’s work from an early age. Growing up near Boston, Meltzer’s mother would send him outdoors on days it snowed and would not let him back in the house until he shoveled each of their neighbors’ driveways.

“I would come home exhausted,” Meltzer explained, “but I learned that if you simply work hard and treat people the right way, you can make a big impact.”

Meltzer has taken this mindset and applied it throughout his career. After being introduced to the insurance industry by his wife Amy in 1982, Alan began as a single agent and has since grown The Meltzer Group into one of the largest and most respected agencies in the entire Mid-Atlantic.

He credits much of his success to Amy, along with their four children, Jennifer, Elizabeth, Max and Mark.

In an industry where many of the products offered are similar across companies, Meltzer’s mantra of delivering ‘raving fan service’ has been what sets The Meltzer Group apart.

“We pride ourselves on going the extra mile, and then going even a little further than that for our clients,” Meltzer says. “Selling insurance is not rocket science – but getting people to trust you and rely on you, particularly in an industry that rapidly changes, is where the hard work and the relationships come in.”

The Meltzer Group’s client-centric focus is matched only in the way it treats its own staff. “We have terrific employees - I can’t emphasize that enough. They are the engine that keeps us running and it’s our responsibility to treat them well.”

6500 Rock Spring Drive Bethesda, MD 20817 301-581-7300 MGInfo@nfp.com www.meltzer.com BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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Attorneys (beginning in front, L-R): Adam Swaim, Stephanie Perry, Christina Scopin, Vicki Viramontes-LaFree, James Saintvil, Marcia Fidis, Eric Bacaj, Micah Snitzer, and Anne Coventry. Not pictured: Morriah Horani, N. Alfred (Al) Pasternak, Linda Ravdin, and Anne (Jan) W. White.

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Pasternak & Fidis, P.C. For a law firm with deep roots in the local community, take a closer look at Pasternak & Fidis. Founded in 1980, for the past 38 years the firm has built a powerful reputation for service to individuals, couples, and families throughout the metro area in estate planning and administration, divorce and family law, premarital agreements, and estate and trust litigation.

Along the way, the firm has garnered many accolades from the industry and media, regularly earning a place among the best estate planning lawyers and the best family lawyers in local publications, SuperLawyers, and Best Lawyers in America. The firm’s lawyers include four Fellows of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel and two Fellows of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.

Innovative and responsive, the firm is also leading the industry in expanding legal areas such as collaborative divorce and digital assets. With any complex issue, attorneys blend sophisticated technical knowledge with attention to detail, practical savvy and highly personalized attention.

“I believe what sets one apart from others is genuine empathy and the ability to connect with clients,” says Managing Partner Stephanie Perry.

“We strive to treat our clients the way that we would want to be treated and to provide them the service that we would expect.” With a focus on developing and mentoring attorneys at all stages, the firm has crafted a succession plan to ensure continuity for its clients.

Firm principals, attorneys, and staff are deeply involved in local schools, associations, animal rescue, civic groups, performing arts institutions, community sports and more.

N. Alfred (Al) Pasternak & Marcia Fidis, 1982.

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7735 Old Georgetown Road, Suite 1100 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-656-8850 info@pasternakfidis.com www.pasternakfidis.com

HILARY SCHWAB; HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY JEAN H. JOHNSON

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Test of Time

TONY J. LEWIS; HISTORICAL IMAGE COURTESY

Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart When Stone Ridge opened in 1923 as the Convent of the Sacred Heart on Massachusetts Avenue in D.C., it was in part because of demand for a Sacred Heart School from the international community. St. Madeleine Sophie Barat founded the Society of the Sacred Heart in France in 1800, an order dedicated to educating young women. Families in Washington, DC were familiar with the Sacred Heart tradition from experiences in other countries. For over a generation, the school fulfilled its mission, but quickly outgrew its quarters. The Religious of the Sacred Heart purchased 35 acres of “Stone Ridge,” the George Hamilton estate in Bethesda. In 1947, the original school moved to Stone Ridge and opened with 150 students and 25 instructors.

Today, as Stone Ridge approaches its Centennial Celebration, the farmland where the school was built now houses a first-class turf athletic field, an eight-lane indoor pool, tech labs, green space and much more. Stone Ridge continues to attract and reflect a dynamic international community with a richly diverse student body, and as a member of the International Network of Sacred Heart Schools. Representing many cultures and ethnic groups, students benefit from a global education and the friendships they make while at the school.

With a dynamic curriculum, first-rate arts and athletic programs, a Social Action program, and network exchange opportunities with sister schools across the globe, students are exposed to the world at large.

“You can easily see how we are preparing our students for a world without borders,” says Head of School Catherine Ronan Karrels ‘86. “This sense of belonging to a worldwide network and mission is a powerful aspect of our identity.”

9101 Rockville Pike Bethesda, MD 20814 301-657-4322 admissions@stoneridgeschool.org www.stoneridgeschool.org

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Hyatt Regency Bethesda JOE KOCH AND SHELLEY BELK

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“We’ve been able to keep the foundation of who we are, but shift with the times to stay relevant.”

1 Bethesda Metro Center Bethesda, MD 20814 301-657-1234 www.bethesda.hyatt.com

COURTESY PHOTOS

Standing at the center of downtown Bethesda, Hyatt Regency Bethesda was built during a period of immense commercial and residential growth. “It’s iconic,” says Joe Koch, Director of Sales and Marketing. “It’s been a fixture in the community since 1985.”

Some of the associates who opened the hotel 35 years ago are still on staff today.

The hotel’s ties to the community have allowed staff to form lasting relationships with their clients. “We have some families where we’ve done the kids’ mitzvahs, and now they’re coming back for their weddings,” says Shelley Belk, Director of Events.

And thanks to the $40 million transformation completed last year, guests get a new experience when they return.

In the renovated 12-story lobby, a modern art installation of woven plexiglass reflects and bends light, creating an array of shadows along the white wall. The pink marble and artificial ivy that once decorated the lobby are long gone. Belk thinks the new, minimalistic décor “allows for more free thinking.” “The interior decorating enhances the guest experience, rather than distracting from it,” says Belk.

The rooftop pool has been converted into a glass-enclosed ballroom, with views of the National Cathedral and the NIH, a loyal client of the hotel. “The majority of our guests are highly educated doctors and researchers,” says Koch. “They’re an integral part of the Bethesda community.”

A true sign of keeping up with the times: an in-hotel Starbucks opened in June. But through all the updates and added amenities, the heart of the hotel has remained the same. “We’ve been able to keep the foundation of who we are,” says Belk, “but shift with the times to stay relevant.”

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Test of Time

Barrie School

STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

ROBERTO VILARRUBI, DOROTHY CASTELINO & HILARY GREEN Founded in 1932, Barrie is one of the area’s oldest progressive schools. For over 85 years, Barrie has been transforming lives by teaching students to be intellectually curious, academically engaged and intrinsically motivated. Barrie uses the Montessori method in its toddler to fifth grade program and an innovative project-based curriculum for sixth to twelfth grade students.

• In middle and high school, Mathematics Teacher Roberto Vilarrubi believes offering the right experiences followed by engaging questions is infinitely more effective than giving the answers. In his 18th year, Roberto has developed and taught courses from cryptology to problem-solving, to AP statistics and multivariable calculus. He is beloved by students.

• Since 1988, Primary Teacher Dorothy Castelino has worn many hats as a parent, teacher, primary division leader, camp coordinator, and Institute instructor and consultant. She cherishes intellectual freedom and flexibility, thrives on meaningful engagement, and enters the classroom each day ready for new adventures.

• The Institute for Advanced Montessori Studies was founded at Barrie in 1980 to train the next generation of Montessori teachers to become change-makers in the classroom. Current Director Hilary Green has been at Barrie for 20 years. She serves on the boards of both the Montessori Schools of Maryland and the American Montessori Society.

“As we approach our 90th year, we’re excited to inaugurate new programs, including a K-5 Maker-STEAM center and innovative science courses in physics and marine science,” says Jon Kidder, head of school. “As a school, we believe parents shouldn’t have to choose between a rigorous academic environment and one that instills a love of learning within a nurturing and caring atmosphere. All students need both to thrive.”

13500 Layhill Road | Silver Spring, MD 20906 301-576-2800 | admission@barrie.org www.barrie.org BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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Rockville Interiors Rockville Interiors was founded in 1971 and specializes in the design and fabrication of the finest fabric home furnishings including custom draperies, shades, reupholstery, slipcovers, cushions and more. Clearly, they’ve stood the Test of Time as second-generation Dan and Ilan Fulop can attest.

“When our dad arrived to the United States at 19, he had no money and barely spoke English,” says Dan. “He knew how to handcraft plastic slipcovers though and began knocking door-to-door offering his services in hopes of making ends meet.”

As people invited him into their homes, they were amazed by his exquisite craftsmanship.

They quickly began asking “do you do reupholstery?” and “can you make pillows?” He worked tirelessly trying to keep up with demand and hired other artisans to craft custom window treatments, pillows, headboards and more all by hand.

“Today, Rockville Interiors operates multiple workrooms where we pair state-of-the-art technology with dad’s old work fabrication techniques,” says Ilan. “Our interior designers help you imagine the product, our workrooms bring the design to life and our technicians oversee delivery and installation.”

“We have the privilege of watching our dad pour his heart into his craft,” says Dan. “He makes every client feel truly loved while ensuring our work looks gorgeous and lasts a lifetime.”

Ilan says, “His passion has inspired us to lead Rockville Interiors into the future with a focus on industry-leading quality, unrivaled service and results that look stunning.”

110 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

5414 Randolph Road Rockville, MD 20852 301-424-1900 www.rockvilleinteriors.com

TONY J. LEWIS

TOM, DAN & ILAN FULOP

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Left to right: Brian Abramson, Mimi Brodsky Kress, Tyler Abrams, Tom Bennett, Phil Leibovitz.

BOWA

MICHAEL VENTURA

STEVE KIRSTEIN, PRINCIPAL; ADAM WERTHEIMER, PROJECT LEADER/OWNER & TJ MONAHAN, PROJECT LEADER From their very first deck addition to their most recent whole-condo renovation, BOWA is celebrating 30 years of growing up with area families. Whether making room for new additions, improving functionality for busy lives, or preparing for aging in place, BOWA continues to help families in Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac improve their lives at home.

Clients come back to BOWA for a second, third and even fifth project and refer friends without hesitation.

Why? “Our client-first approach and commitment to delivering heroic customer service are a refreshing alternative to typical remodeling experiences,” says Steve Kirstein, principal. “We’re honored every time a client invites us into their home, and we will do all we can to earn their trust for years to come.”

BOWA takes pride in delivering a better experience, from feasibility and design through construction and beyond. “The BOWA team made our full house renovation seamless. High quality, customer focused and professional. Follow-on support and service has been everything promised,” said a recent client.

Even after 30 years, BOWA continues honing their processes to put the client first and allay common remodeling concerns, so clients can move forward in confidence. Among these principles are encouraging fixed-price contracts in most scenarios; providing open-book budgets; staffing all projects with full-time, onsite supervision; and providing follow-on support via a dedicated Customer Service Team available 24/7 to help with emergencies. And they offer BOWA’s “Good Neighbor” programs, which proactively manage communication with project neighbors to help to keep the peace!

“Sometimes it’s the little things that make the difference in delivering a successful project and enjoyable remodeling experience, and we’ve got them covered,” says Kirstein.

7900 Westpark Drive, Suite A180 McLean, VA 22102 301-657-3947 info@bowa.com www.bowa.com

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FineCraft Building Contractors Since 1985, FineCraft has been creating award-winning kitchens, baths, additions, remodels and custom houses in Maryland, Virginia and D.C. “FineCraft is now well into its second generation. We’ve stood the test of time by our sheer dedication and gung-ho approach to every project. We apply specific actions and abide by particular systems that are foolproof,” says Niko Papaheraklis, business manager. “This includes care, transparent communication, on-schedule projects, unwavering quality and last—but certainly not least—having fun. Without this, a general contractor won’t make it.”

“Construction is fundamentally dirty—dust, paint, mud and grime. But it can also be emotionally messy. Clients are trusting us with their money to do work in their home, and as we all know, construction rarely goes 100 percent according to plan,” says George Papaheraklis, founder and president.

“It may fall behind, run over budget or require changes on the fly,” says George. “The systems we’ve put into place have resulted in a 95 percent success rate with clients. When we finish a project our clients feel like friends. They know the names of our crew members, and we know the names of their kids and pets. Clients have even brought home pizza for our guys. And our guys have gone out of their way to teach some kids a thing or two about construction.”

This relationship is ultimately the reason clients refer FineCraft to friends and family and come back when they need additional projects completed. Solid relationships with clients begin on day one. “Building to a general contractor is second nature, but it’s a whole other ball game for a builder to construct a lasting relationship,” says George.

112 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

104 Summit Hall Road Gaithersburg, MD 20877 301-330-9191 niko@finecraftcontractors.com www.finecraftcontractors.com

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NIKO PAPAHERAKLIS

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Test of Time

(L-R) Rita Cevallos, Care Center Manager, Eliana Assimakopoulos, MHS, PA-C, Stanford Coleman, MD, Jon Gonella, PA-C, and Katharine Tate, Director of Community Relations

HEATHER FUENTES

Righttime Medical Care When Righttime Medical Care first opened its doors in Annapolis in 1989 as Nighttime Pediatrics, founder and CEO Dr. Robert G. Graw, Jr. didn’t know what to expect. The concept of caring for children during off hours was unheard of. But after his first patient walked through the doors—a little girl with a bad cold accompanied by her thankful mother—it became clear that parents needed a trusted place to take children when their family doctor was unavailable. Soon, parents and adults also wanted after-hours care.

In the nearly 30 years since, Righttime has expanded hours and services and changed its name to reflect its commitment to being available to the communities it serves. Maryland’s original urgent care has grown fast, as it opens its 18th Care Center in Bethesda in December with a co-located HeadFirst Sports Injury and Concussion Care clinic.

The first Righttime in Montgomery County opened on Rockville Pike in 1999, and is still in its original location. There are soon to be seven Care Centers in Montgomery County— more than any other urgent care in Maryland—in Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Germantown, Olney, Potomac, Rockville and Silver Spring.

Dr. Graw is continually impressed with the welcoming reception from each new community. Now that the public, hospitals, primary care providers and insurance companies understand urgent care’s place in health care, he sees endless expansion for Righttime. “It’s really fantastic to see how we grow,” says Dr. Graw. “But what is truly remarkable are our people at Righttime. Everyone is so passionate to the mission of the company—to simplify access to trustworthy medical care.”

2209 Defense Highway Crofton, MD 21114 888-808-6483 press@myrighttime.com www.myrighttime.com

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(L-R): Bill, Karen, Mark, Tom and Leonard Weschler

The Weschler Family As a venerable, privately-owned institution, Weschler’s has been serving the auction and appraisal needs of Maryland, D.C. and Virginia since 1890.

In 2017, after over 125 years in D.C., Weschler’s moved to a new space in Rockville, boasting two expansive ground-floor galleries and ample free parking. The company is operated by Bill Weschler, Adam Weschler’s great grandson; his son and daughter, Mark and Karen Weschler; and cousins Tom and Leonard Weschler.

As a fourth- and fifth-generation family owned and operated auction and appraisal business, Weschler’s continues to provide customers with a reliable and transparent consignment experience, tailored to the needs of each estate or individual. Appraisers bring a combined experience of over 100 years to the appraisal and auction process, guiding their clients with a wide range of expertise in the specialty areas of antiques, fine art, decorative arts and jewelry. In addition to providing complimentary verbal estimates of auction value, the Weschler family of appraisers can provide written appraisals for estate tax and planning, insurance, charitable contribution and other purposes.

Over the years, Weschler’s has worked with well-known institutions, families and estates like the Daughters of the American Revolution, National Portrait Gallery, and the estates of Marjorie Merriweather Post and Katharine Graham, to name a few.

Weschler’s holds quarterly high-end Capital Collection auctions each season, featuring European and American furniture, paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, jewelry, 20th Century decorative arts, rugs and tapestries. Bi-monthly and weekly auctions include reproduction furniture, period pieces, rugs, artwork, silver, jewelry, collectibles, books and general household goods.

114 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

40 West Gude Drive, Suite 100 Rockville, MD 20850 202-628-1281 info@weschlers.com www.weschlers.com

ERICK GIBSON

WESCHLER’S AUCTIONEERS & APPRAISERS, LLC

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Paley Rothman, Attorneys at Law Forty-six years ago, Steve Paley and Mark Rothman recognized a need for sophisticated business and tax lawyers in Montgomery County, and Paley Rothman was born. They chose Bethesda for its proximity to D.C. and convenient suburban location. Little did they know what Bethesda would become.

“We’re proud to see how this area has grown into a thriving business and cultural hub, and how Paley Rothman has become the law firm of choice for informed businesses and individuals,” says Co-President Robert Maclay.

Satisfied with their results and the firm’s service, clients have stayed with the firm through the years. Many in the firm's diverse workforce have been in the family for more than 20 years. Each of the 40 attorneys applies the “Paley Perspective” to matters in more than 20 areas. These include business and corporate transactions, tax, commercial and residential real estate, healthcare, commercial finance and litigation, employment, family law, science, technology and intellectual property, and estate planning and administration.

“Clients rely on us to identify and address key issues, analyze and interpret complex information and develop solution-oriented strategies that protect their interests and ensure their long-term success,” says Co-President Jim Hammerschmidt. “Our problem-solving perspective offers favorable results and makes us a leading law firm in Maryland.”

The firm remains committed to nurturing deep roots in the community. For 46 years, lawyers and staff have participated in and contributed to hundreds of local cultural organizations, food kitchens, religious organizations, chambers of commerce, state and local bar associations, local hospitals and more.

“We are proud of the legacy we have started in Montgomery County and we look forward to another 46 years,” says Partner Mark Goldstein.”

4800 Hampden Lane, 6th Floor Bethesda, MD 20814 301-656-7603 info@paleyrothman.com www.paleyrothman.com

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Gilday Renovations What makes a company able to sustain vitality and relevance over time? With Gilday Renovations, it is the company’s ability to adapt to a changing market and yet stay true its original vision.

Cousins Kevin Gilday and Tom Gilday founded their company in 1979. They expanded their expertise in design and construction while focusing on high-quality customer service. This combination is at the core of the company’s staying power. “We’ve never stopped delivering excellent design and craftsmanship while pursuing a high level of customer satisfaction,” says Tom. “Referrals and repeat clients have become a large part of our business.”

Early on, the Gildays hired their own architectural and interior designers because having design and construction professionals working on the same team offers a more stable platform to explore creative design solutions while delivering a seamless, worry-free customer experience. Today, this process is commonly known as “design-build.”

As they took on more craftsmen and designers to produce larger and more advanced projects, they organized the company at all levels around an integrated design and project management system to ensure accuracy and consistent communication throughout all phases of the renovation process. “The result is creative design concepts that are buildable, on budget and often exceed our clients' expectations,” says Kevin.

Gilday Renovations is well known for their hands-on approach. When you work with them, either Kevin or Tom will be guiding your home renovation project from concept to a delightful conclusion.

The award-winning home remodeling and design-build company serves Northwest Washington and Cleveland Park in D.C.; Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Kensington, Potomac and Rockville in Maryland; and Arlington, Alexandria and McLean in Virginia.

116 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

9162 Brookville Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-565-4600 info@gilday.com www.gilday.com

LISA HELFERT

KEVIN GILDAY & TOM GILDAY

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Test of Time

STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

Valley Mill Camp Valley Mill Camp has been serving families in the Maryland and D.C. area since 1956.

Conveniently located in Darnestown on more than 60 acres of deep woods surrounding a twoacre spring-fed lake, Valley Mill provides ample space for a vigorous camp program for both boys and girls.

Counselors are chosen for their character and values and are all good role models for kids.

“Our counselors care about the children and the camp, and they lead the activities with a spirit of fun,” says Camp Director Evelyn McEwan. “Many children attend Valley Mill year after year, finding deepened experiences each time.”

Evelyn’s parents Bob and May McEwan founded the camp more than 60 years ago.

Campers at Valley Mill today have parents and even grandparents that were former campers themselves! The bonds formed at Valley Mill become lifelong friendships, and many campers go on to become staff members.

Valley Mill combines closeness to home with the atmosphere of an away camp. Through plenty of fun and challenging open-air activities—kayaking, canoeing, gymnastics, horseback riding, archery and air rifle and more—“Valley Millers” spend days in the rugged outdoors, making friends and learning self-sufficiency and resilience, teamwork and self-confidence.

Some Valley Millers have gone on to compete in kayaking and canoeing on National and Olympic Teams, and in the 2018 Winter Games, a Valley Mill alum was a member of the Gold Medal-winning U.S. Women’s Hockey Team.

Celebrating its 63rd season, Valley Mill Camp has stood the test of time. “We look forward to welcoming new generations of campers as well as returning friends in 2019 and beyond,” says McEwan.

15101 Seneca Road Germantown, MD 20874 301-948-0220 valleymill@valleymill.com www.valleymill.com

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The Woods Academy

6801 Greentree Road Bethesda, MD 20817 301-365-3080 admissions@woodsacademy.org www.woodsacademy.org 118 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

DARREN HIGGINS

In December 1974, when it was announced that Ursuline Academy would close due to a shortage of Sisters, a group of dedicated parents banded together to continue Ursuline education for their children. In 1975, despite the decision of the Ursuline Sisters who staffed the academy, three Ursuline parents – J. Robert Walsh, George K. Reese, and John G. Scozzafava – founded Our Lady of the Woods Academy, subsequently The Woods Academy.

The new school would be for children age three to grade eight, beginning with a Montessori preschool. Sister Celestine, OSU, would be the first administrator and parents would have an active role in the operation. At that time, a parent-run, private, co-educational Catholic school was unusual, but not unheard of.

Today, The Woods is a renowned Montessori preschool and high school preparatory school educating boys and girls from age three through grade eight. The Woods curriculum has maintained Ursuline’s wellknown traditions of excellence in education, including instruction in Catholic doctrine and Christian beliefs, as well as French at all grade levels.

The Woods maintains this excellence in education by continually enhancing the curricular and extracurricular offerings at every level. Daily world language offerings now include French or Spanish, beginning in kindergarten. The Woods experience also incorporates a comprehensive and celebrated arts program; technology instruction that is comprised of robotics, programming, and coding; physical education classes and competitive athletics; as well as classes in entrepreneurship and leadership development.

The Woods Academy, like its predecessor Ursuline Academy, is traditional and structured, was well as innovative, rich and child-centered.

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Hardwood Artisans

ADAM FREEDMAN; HISTORIC IMAGE COURTESY

STEPHEN DOYLE What started in the basement of an Old Town Alexandria storefront in 1976 has become a 60-person operation with two showrooms in the D.C. area and a production facility with a showroom in Elkwood, Virginia. Stephen Doyle, the Bethesda showroom manager, attributes Hardwood Artisans’ success to being able to change and grow with the community. “We have a responsibility to ourselves and to our customers to stay in business,” says Stephen. “If they keep wanting to come in and buy things, we have to figure out a way to stay open.”

When Stephen left Hardwood Artisans in 2000 to study aerospace engineering at Old Dominion University, the company threw him a retirement party. It was at this nowpremature retirement bash that Doyle met his wife, Witarani. “It was the most fortunate thing that’s ever happened to me,” he says.

Stephen returned to Hardwood Artisans just four years later for what he thought would be a temporary stint. “I thought it was going to be temporary while I looked for something in aerospace engineering. But working here made other jobs less attractive,” says Stephen, who has been with the company 28 of the 42 years it’s been in business.

For Stephen, it’s the client relationships that make the work so rewarding. “This business is a magnet for really interesting people,” he says. Hardwood Artisans’ customers are loyal, professional types who enjoy connecting with their creative side to purchase bespoke furniture. “It’s not just about the furniture we make, it’s the relationships we build with people,” he says.

“It’s not just about the furniture we make, it’s the relationships we build with people.”

Bethesda Showroom 4828 St Elmo Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814 240-483-0250 hardwoodartisans.com

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Calleva, Inc. THE MARKOFF BROTHERS

13015 Rileys Lock Road Poolesville, MD 20837 301-216-1248 www.calleva.org

DARREN HIGGINS

For 26 years, Calleva has held true to its mission to provide outdoor experiences that challenge individuals towards personal growth, encourage teamwork and provide enriching relief from the stress of city life.

Founded as a small summer camp in 1993 by Nick, Alex and Matt Markoff, Calleva has built a reputation for excellence and innovation in outdoor education and outdoor adventure. Calleva now works with more than 100 schools and partner organizations in the D.C. area, offering a dynamic set of programs that goes well beyond summer camp to include overnight wilderness experiences, environmental education and small-scale sustainable farming.

The Markoffs are quick to say that their journey has been full of surprises and adventures that have stretched their imaginations. They credit Calleva’s success to a strong team of committed and capable professionals who are passionate about education, the outdoors and community.

Altman & Associates

(L-R): Elizabeth Glines; Jamie Zhang; Vanessa van der Have; Michele Conward; Melissa Aitken, Esq.; Gary Altman, Esq.; Brenda Bosch, Esq.; Leyli Khosroshahi; and Coryn Rosenstock, Esq. Missing from picture Robert Freda, Esq.

11300 Rockville Pike, Suite 708 Rockville, MD 20852 301-468-3220 | gary@altmanassociates.net www.altmanassociates.net

120 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

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Rockville-based Altman & Associates has been helping individuals, families, and businesses in MD, D.C. and Northern Virginia navigate estate law matters for over 20 years. While the firm has been honored with many awards, its most prized recognition always comes in the form of a satisfied client.

As estate planning deals with deeply personal matters surrounding life and death, earning a client’s trust and putting their needs first has been essential to the firm’s success and longevity. It’s not uncommon for Altman & Associates to serve many generations within a family. Of course, no business can stand the test of time without great people. The Altman team consists of highly-skilled, experienced legal professionals who give every case and client the time, attention and compassion they deserve. Altman & Associates knows that there are other firms to choose from, which is why they are honored each time a client chooses them.

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Geneva Day School Every fall at Geneva Day School, young students study small, worm-like creatures of black, yellow and white stripes, which devour succulent, green milkweed. These tiny caterpillars, soon set to molt and grow so as to weave their jade-colored chrysalises and later emerge as adult butterflies, serve not only as the school’s mascot, but also as a poignant reminder of how much students are like Monarch butterflies.

Enriching class experiences include specialized music, art, mindful exercises and environmental education. Collaboration with parents identifies students’ individual strengths and needs. “By enjoying our innovative playground and our invigorating gardens and inspiring nearby creek, children discover nature and assume environmental stewardship,” says Director Suzanne Funk.

For 54 years, Geneva has withstood the test of time as a private preschool and kindergarten program. Successes are evident in graduates who are well prepared for their next school placements, alumni who return to volunteer or work as summer camp counselors, and adult graduates who enroll their own children. Over a third of staff began their affiliation with Geneva as parents, with the average length of service at just over 11 years.

Bethesda Magazine’s readers have three times awarded Geneva a “Best of Bethesda” distinction, just as the Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education has three times designated Geneva as a Green School.

Just as young caterpillars pass through stages of development before metamorphosing as adults, Geneva students also grow and mature as they embrace a “lifelong love of learning.”

“Please feel free to schedule a personal tour of the school to learn how Geneva may provide an excellent education experience for your own children,” invites Director Funk.

11931 Seven Locks Road Potomac, MD 20854 301-340-7704 www.genevadayschool.org

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GKA Advertising JODI KATZKER, PRESIDENT & OWNER

6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 1070 | Rockville, MD 20852 301-657-8855, ext. 1208 | jkatzker@gkaadvertising.com www.gkaadvertising.com

LISA HELFERT

Delivering award-winning marketing campaigns and excellent client service over the past 30 years has come naturally for GKA Advertising, a woman owned marketing agency in Rockville.

GKA’s unequivocal belief is that smart marketing works, and that their success stems from their clients’ success. The agency’s clients benefit from this philosophy, and as testament, many of GKA’s referrals come from their current clients.

The boutique marketing agency delivers full-service marketing including strategic campaigns, effective advertising, beautiful websites and dynamic media planning. Behind the successful results and thriving agency is President and Owner Jodi Katzker. “We care deeply about each detail. We handle the nitty-gritty so that our clients’ lives are easier and their businesses succeed,” says Katzker.

Continuing to grow their brand emphatically, GKA Advertising envisions a future in which the team continues to deliver best-in-class campaigns, stays true to their core values and nurtures the lasting connections for which they are known.

Family & Nursing Care SANDY KURSBAN, FOUNDER & NEAL KURSBAN, CEO

1010 Wayne Ave., Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-588-8200 | info@familynursingcare.com www.familynursingcare.com 122 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

MICHAEL VENTURA

Family & Nursing Care celebrates its 50th anniversary this year—a milestone underscored by drastic industry changes over the past half century. When Sandy Kursban founded Family & Nursing Care in 1968, the idea of “home care” was in its infancy; today, it’s a necessity. With 90 percent of aging adults preferring to remain in their own home, home care services are more critical today than ever before.

The main reason Family & Nursing Care is so successful is simple­— they find the elite caregivers. In 2017, only the top 7 percent of caregivers who applied met the company’s rigorous standards and were brought on board—and 98 percent of clients said they would recommend Family & Nursing Care. As the company continually innovates to prepare for the next 50 years, they stay true to their original focus: to profoundly improve the quality of life for aging adults.

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Test of Time

Greta Nicoletti & Andrew Carbone LONG & FOSTER | CHRISTIE'S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE & THREE BROTHERS LAND CO.

HILARY SCHWAB

Andrew Carbone is a second-generation builder with 30 years of experience building hundreds of custom homes in the Washington metro area. Greta Nicoletti has consistently been a top producer with Long & Foster/Christie’s International Real Estate for 30 years. As husband and wife, together they are an invaluable team for their clients.

Andrew’s experience as a land developer and builder provides powerful insights in achieving a client’s goals when building their dream home.

Whether on your own lot or by acquiring a new lot, Andrew provides an array of floorplans as a baseline while siting the house on the lot to ensure his client’s expectations are achieved.

Greta Nicoletti lists and sells houses. Working closely with Three Brothers Land Co and many other builders in the community, she can expertly and effectively assist her clients when deciding whether to renovate their existing home or build a new one. Greta will provide the information you need to buy or build new, locate a lot to build on, build on your own property or select a builder that fits your needs. She is adept at comparing the monetary and aesthetic values associated with every decision.

The synergy that Andrew and Greta provide results in the right and most equitable decisions for their clients. Andrew and Greta know the intrinsic values and nuances associated with every home and real estate decision. They know the neighborhoods, what sells and how to make sure that what you invest in will retain its value.

Together, both Greta and Andrew take the time to see you through the process from beginning to end—helping you with everything in between.

Greta: 301-910-2696 GretaHomes@gmail.com www.GretaHomes.com Andrew: 301-252-8715 ThreeBrothersLand@gmail.com www.ThreeBrothersLand.com BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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O’Donnell’s Market BILL & ASHLEE EDELBLUT

1073 Seven Locks Road Potomac, MD 20854 301-251-6355 ashlee@odonnellsmarket.com www.odonnellsmarket.com

ADAM FREEDMAN

Tom O’Donnell founded the first O’Donnell’s restaurant in 1922 in Washington, DC. His daughter Janice opened the Bethesda location in the ’50s and Bill opened the Kentlands restaurant in 1997. Bill and Ashlee are the third and fourth generation to run the business, and a family member has always been involved and is generally on site at O’Donnell’s.

The market is a new concept for the brand, created because Bill and Ashlee wanted to keep the family tradition going but in retail form. Still offering O’Donnell’s signature crab cakes and rum buns, the market opened in 2015. “We care about our brand and our name,” says Bill. “We prioritize quality, by only buying the best products available and never cutting corners.”

“We love what we do!” says Ashlee. “We love the relationships that we have built with our customers. It feels like an extended family.”

Glickman Design Build RUSS GLICKMAN

15757 Crabbs Branch Way Rockville, MD 20855 301-444-4663 | info@glickmandesignbuild.com www.glickmandesignbuild.com 124 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

DARREN HIGGINS

The question of how Russ Glickman and Glickman Design Build have stood the test of time can be answered in one word—passion.

Russ and the Glickman team exemplify this every day with every homeowner they meet and with every project they complete. Russ looks at home remodeling as not merely construction, but as to how this construction will impact his client’s lives. He digs deep to truly understand the reason behind the remodel to offer up solutions beyond what the homeowner even knew was possible. Staying abreast of all the latest trends, Russ incorporates cutting-edge processes such as 3D virtual reality into his design process.

While his expertise lies with complicated remodeling solutions such as aging-in-place, mobility solutions and universal design, Russ also has hundreds of award-winning whole house remodel, home addition and kitchen and bath projects under his belt.

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Test of Time

HILARY SCHWAB

Burt Wealth Advisors Combining years of experience with unsurpassed expertise, the professionals at Burt Wealth Advisors form long-term partnerships with their clients. “Every client relationship is rooted in trust,” says Fred Cornelius, president & CEO of the award-winning, nationally-recognized wealth management firm.

Since the company was established 33 years ago, Burt Wealth Advisors has helped hundreds of families across multiple generations enjoy financial security. “We often work with two or three generations in a family, which allows us to see the big picture and come up with solutions that create value for all of them,” says Cornelius. “These multi-generational partnerships are a reflection of the high level of trust our clients have in us. We take that very seriously.”

Using their Growth Through Life Wealth Planning Process, the advisors guide their clients through the investment management and financial planning process. They have extensive experience with helping women take control of their finances, particularly after a divorce or other life transition. “It’s crucial for women to work with a financial advisor who speaks their language. We strongly believe in educating all of our clients so they’ll be informed and empowered,” says Executive Vice President Maria Cornelius.

Though the firm has grown considerably since 1985, they’ve intentionally kept their client-to-planner ratio low to ensure that clients receive the attention they deserve. “We’ve designed our whole client experience around being proactive and following up. We do exactly what we say we’re going to do,” says Fred Cornelius. After more than three decades of success, the entire team remains focused on providing personalized service and intelligent advice through communication, transparency and integrity. Contact Burt Wealth Advisors to learn how they can help you plan for your future.

6010 Executive Blvd., Suite 900 Rockville, MD 20852 301-770-9880 fcornelius@burtwealth.com www.burtwealth.com

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Manion + Associates, Architects, P.C. TOM MANION, PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT AND OWNER TIFANY MANION, BUSINESS MANAGER

7307 MacArthur Blvd., #216 Bethesda, MD 20816 301-229-7000 | tom@manionarchitects.com www.manionarchitects.com

ERICK GIBSON

Offering innovative design solutions and a completely customized client experience, Manion + Associates, Architects has designed homes in the D.C. metro area for more than 38 years. “We have a diverse group of architects on our team and everyone is highly skilled in many design styles,” says Principal Architect and Owner Tom Manion. Manion begins every project by carefully matching each client with an architect who is knowledgeable about that client’s preferred style. Throughout the process, clients benefit from Manion’s expertise as well as the extensive network he’s built over four decades of working in the area. “Our services extend beyond exceptional design,” says Manion, who oversees every project. “We know which contractors are experts in a particular architectural style and which vendors provide excellent service, so we bring them in.” Around 90 percent of their clients are referrals or repeats, a testament to the trust they’ve earned and the reputation they’ve built.

Alana Lasover LONG & FOSTER | CHRISTIE’S INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE

Bethesda Gateway Office 4650 East West Highway | Bethesda, MD 20814 O: 301-907-7600 | C: 301-602-5250 alana@LNF.com 126 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

COURTSEY PHOTO

You might say that Alana Lasover has been a Realtor® her entire life. The daughter of a real estate broker, at age 9 she was paid 25 cents for every FSBO—“for sale by owner”—she was able to locate riding her bicycle through her Madison, Wisconsin neighborhood.

Still in the real estate industry more than 35 years later, Lasover remains every bit as enthusiastic as she was back then. “I love this business, and have from the day I started,” she says. “After several years as an agent and several more as a manager, I’m back to what I really enjoy: working with buyers and sellers!”

Lasover has chaired several committees at the Greater Capital Area Association of Realtors®, and served as president in 2001. Throughout her career she’s remained true to her principles of service and integrity, earning the highest respect of her colleagues. Let her put her experience, knowledge and enthusiasm to work for you.

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Test of Time

Standing (L-R): Dane Taylor, 14 years; Patricia Blackwell, 19; Daysi Solis, 21; Kadiatou Bah, 10; Babatunde Sani, 16; Haja Kandeh, 10; Anthony Brown, 18; Sitting (L-R): Rosa Legoretta, 13; Berta Monterrosa, 11; Anab Abdi, 18; Not shown: Richard Rumi, 14; Karen Taylor, 23

The Kensington Park

STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

SENIOR LIVING TEAM Thirty years ago, Kensington Park became part of a local Kensington neighborhood.

Throughout its first 20 years, six different leadership organizations came and went. Then Kensington Senior Living, a progressive group of longtime senior living professionals, assumed ownership. They brought with them a commitment to excellence in service and care, and a promise to love and care for residents as they do their own family. They upheld their commitment and their promise, and Kensington Park is flourishing as a result.

Outside, three Victorian-style residences are nestled among eight acres of a lush, park-like setting and beautifully manicured landscaping. Inside, bright spaces are elegantly appointed, yet inviting and comfortable. A comprehensive lifestyle spectrum includes independent living, assisted living and three levels of memory care.

But what makes Kensington Park so unforgettably striking is the warm, genuine welcome that awaits every guest who crosses the threshold. A sumptuous blend of expertise, thoughtful regard and kind leadership is impossible to miss.

There is no doubt that what breathes life into Kensington Park is a well-chosen team of leaders, care specialists and support staff. They are happy, cordial, capable and interested.

They make Kensington Park a feel-good place for residents, their families, each other and all who visit. It’s no surprise that 25 individuals have been part of the team for over 10 years and one for 23 years.

“At Kensington Park, we always find or create new ways to entertain, engage and care for our residents,” says Executive Director Mary Mell. “But we appreciate the comfort of familiarity, too, especially for those we serve. A staff-that-stays tells us we’re doing something right, and we’re proud of the results.”

3620 Littledale Road Kensington, MD 20895 301-946-7700 www.KensingtonParkSeniorLiving.com

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Scott Mattingly GRI, ABR THE MATTINGLY GROUP AT LONG AND FOSTER

7700 Old Georgetown Road, Suite 120 | Bethesda, MD 20814 O: 240-497-1700 | D: 301-980-9916 Scott.Mattingly@longandfoster.com | www.themattinglygroup.com

TONY J. LEWIS

As a licensed Realtor in the metro area since 1982, and a third-generation Washingtonian, Scott Mattingly shares a rare depth of experience with his clients.

His eclectic background includes singing and teaching voice, founding and managing an opera company, mortgage banking, and managing a billion-dollar real estate office in Bethesda. He first was licensed in Minneapolis, and developed expertise buying and selling real estate, handson renovating and helping friends with home purchases. "I've always loved real estate, and this business has been very good to me," says Scott.

With hundreds of millions of dollars in career sales, it is not all about the numbers. "An excellent agent offers a lot of intangibles like empathy and responsiveness. I am grateful for many long-term relationships with agents, contractors and lenders, and the best network of clients any agent could have. Thanks to you all!"

Smith, Thomas & Smith, Inc. General Contractors TOM BROWN & JOHN GUBISCH

4713 Maple Ave. Bethesda, MD 20814 301-656-0141 | stsgc@aol.com www.smiththomasandsmith.com 128 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

TONY J. LEWIS

Longevity is one thing for a business, but a contractor whose been thriving for more than 55 years is something else.

Formed in 1960, and still remodeling homes in the neighborhoods of Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Northwest D.C., Smith, Thomas & Smith (STS) has been managed for the past 35 years by Tom Brown and John Gubisch.

The company specializes in all types of residential remodeling and renovation, including kitchens, bathroom, additions and whole-house renovations. To best serve customers, they also offer in-house design/ build services and timely and competitive free estimates. Decades-long relationships with suppliers and subcontractors ensure responsive estimating, informed scheduling and competitive pricing. STS is consistently ranked in the Top 500 remodeling contractors in the country

by Remodeling Magazine.

BETHESDA GREEN THANKS THE GENEROUS 2018 GALA SPONSORS Thank you for supporting our mission to accelerate locally the sustainable economy with a focus on innovation, impact and community.

Learn about our Community Engament Programs, our Be Impact Initiative and our Be Green Hub incubator. Working together toward a more sustainable economy!

4825 Cordell Avenue Suite 200, Bethesda Maryland 20814 240-396-2440 www.bethesdagreen.org

BG_BethMag18_ad.indd 1

10/4/18 5:05 PM

Peake ReLeaf in Rockville, like other medical cannabis dispensaries, carries hundreds of products, including dozens of strains of marijuana flower.

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A New

Leaf medical marijuana dispensaries are sprouting up all over the Bethesda area. Who’s using them—and Will full legalization be next?

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY APRIL WITT

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Daniel Goldberg plays one of his favorite guitars in the back garden of his parents’ Ashton home.

I

IT WAS LATE, WELL AFTER MIDNIGHT.

Daniel Goldberg, a 28-year-old sous-chef at a District restaurant, was exhausted after working a long shift. But he was almost home. Eight-tenths of a mile from his parents’ cozy redbrick house east of Olney, Daniel glimpsed a flash of something—maybe headlights—through the windshield of his old sedan. He startled. After that, he remembers nothing but the sudden, terrifying realization that he’d lost control of the Oldsmobile and was careening off New Hampshire Avenue. A police report dated June 23, 2012, fills in some of the gaps: Goldberg’s car struck a utility pole, spun across the lawn of a United Methodist church and hit a tree. He was ejected through the rear window.

Just down the road, his parents, Andy and Sharon Goldberg, were awakened by the sound of sirens.

The next thing Daniel Goldberg remembers is waking up in the intensive care unit at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda. His parents were at his bedside. The first words they remember him saying were, “I’ve got to get to work.” They cried. Goldberg had been in a medically

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induced coma for a month. He’d been so seriously injured in the accident and had lost so much blood that he had died twice, once on the operating table, when he stopped breathing, his heart stopped beating and his blood pressure tanked. One of those times, his parents recall, it took doctors 10 minutes to bring him back— Lazarus-like. His pelvis was crushed. His right leg and left arm were mangled. He was held together with metal plates and rods. He would never again be sturdy enough to work as a restaurant chef. It was unclear if he’d be able to walk.

Goldberg, now 34, walks with two canes to steady himself. On a recent afternoon in his parents’ sunny living room he wore a T-shirt emblazoned with the word Affliction. He lifted the shirt to reveal scars that run along his spine and down his buttocks. The scars are as epic as his story. In just six years, he’s lived some of the significant medical trends of the age: the ability of expert trauma surgeons to save critically injured patients, the rise of prescription opioids that dull pain but can ruin lives, and the dawning of legalized medical marijuana.

GOLDBERG IS ONE OF more than 38,000 people in Maryland—at least 8,000 of them in Montgomery County—who are certified by the state to buy medical cannabis legally. As of late August, about another 16,000 had applied to purchase medical cannabis through the state-regulated program and were awaiting approval or denial. The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission fields between 250 and 300 new applications daily from would-be medical marijuana patients.

Across Montgomery County, more than a dozen stateregulated dispensaries are selling medical cannabis to approved patients. The first, Potomac Holistics, opened on Dec. 1, 2017, on the second floor of a modest office complex near Darnestown Road in Rockville. One of the newest cannabis dispensaries in the county is Health for Life Bethesda, which opened Aug. 27 on Fairmont Avenue. With its wood-lined walls and minimalist design aesthetic, Health for Life looks like an upscale beauty spa.

Unlike a spa, it has a high-security vault where its merchandise is locked away at closing time. The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission has approved the opening in the near future of several more dispensaries in the county.

In the 11 months since the first medical cannabis dispensaries opened in Maryland they have sold more than $46 million worth of medical marijuana statewide, state records show.

The federal government still considers the sale or possession of marijuana illegal. It classifies marijuana, just like heroin and methamphetamine, as a Schedule 1 drug with no medical benefit. Thus, institutions that receive federal funding aren’t free to conduct the large, randomized placebo-controlled trials that might prove or disprove the efficacy of marijuana to treat a broad array of ailments.

Doctors are whipsawed between the federal laws and the real-life stakes for patients joining Maryland’s new medicinal cannabis program. Members of The Maryland State Medical Society, for example, remain so divided on medicinal cannabis that the organization is unable to adopt a formal position on the issue, CEO Gene M. Ransom III says. Instead, the society provides information on laws and regulations to doctors who choose to register with the state

to assess patients who want medical cannabis.

Unless the federal government clears the way for substantive research into the efficacy of medical cannabis, Dr. Carolyn O’Conor, a Rockville family medicine physician, won’t be helping her patients obtain it. “I think it’s a perversion of medical care,” says O’Conor, president of the Montgomery County Medical Society. “I believe in evidence-based medical care, and there is next to no evidence on this.”

Dr. Brent Berger, 59, a Bethesda internist, has no quarrel with a medical doctor certifying patients to receive medical cannabis—as long as their ailments fall within

G

At RISE Silver Spring, the flower buds of different strains of marijuana plants are stored in kitchen canisters to help keep them fresh.

the scope of the physician’s expertise. Berger was stunned recently when a dentist certified two of the internist’s patients to receive medical cannabis for ailments unrelated to dentistry. “I wouldn’t want anybody to come to me for a root canal,” Berger says. Currently, the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission permits doctors, nurse practitioners, dentists and podiatrists who registered with the commission to certify patients to receive medical cannabis. “It is a new system,” Berger says. “It’s got its kinks that need to be worked out.”

For many patients, however, medical marijuana has already become an indispensable lifeline. “This is the first time since the accident that there is a ray of light at the end of the painkiller tunnel,” Goldberg says. “It’s a big deal for

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Is Full Legalization Coming in Maryland?

BY LOUIS PECK

SINCE 2012, EIGHT STATES have legalized the sale and use of recreational marijuana. In Maryland, the consensus among insiders isn’t if the state will adopt such a law, but when.

“The change on public opinion on this is as fast as we saw with marriage equality,” says Del. David Moon, a Takoma Park Democrat, who has sponsored legalization for the past three years. “In my first year, among both Democrats and Republicans, I had a lot of hesitation getting people to sign on as co-sponsors. By the third year, it was easier to get Democrats on board; I still didn’t get any Republicans, but some of them are seriously thinking about it.”

Moon and other supporters have been buoyed by recent polls—The Washington Post in late 2016 and Goucher College’s Sarah T. Hughes Field Politics Center this past September—respectively showing that 61 percent and 62 percent of Maryland residents favor legalization of the personal use of marijuana. Among the political establishment, state Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller has indicated for the past five years that he supports the regulated sale of recreational marijuana. And his House of Delegates counterpart, Speaker Michael Busch, is signaling that he won’t stand in the way.

“I’m sure legislation is going to come before the General Assembly this [coming] term,” says Busch chief of staff Alexandra Hughes, “and depending on what the will of the House and the will of the Democratic caucus is, you could see something move forward sometime over the next four years.”

How quickly such a proposal progresses—and in what form—may be significantly linked to the results of this year’s November election. Democratic gubernatorial nominee Ben Jealous has embraced legalization and is touting the taxation of so-called “adult use” marijuana to fund prekindergarten education.

Based in part on the experience of 134

Colorado—with a population similar in size to Maryland’s—the Jealous campaign has estimated that sales could generate about $378 million in taxes annually.

Jealous’ opponent, Republican incumbent Larry Hogan, has been noncommittal so far about legalizing recreational marijuana. “At this point, I think it’s worth taking a look at,” Hogan told WRC-TV in Washington, D.C., this summer. “I was for medical cannabis,” he added, referring to the law signed by his predecessor, Democrat Martin O’Malley, in 2013 that legalized the sale of medical marijuana in Maryland. “I want to make sure we get that off to the right start, and we look at every aspect of the issue.”

Moon and other supporters of legalization remain uncertain where Hogan, if re-elected, will ultimately come down.

Following the decriminalization of recreational marijuana in 2014, effectively turning possession of small amounts into the equivalent of a traffic ticket, Hogan vetoed a bill during his first year in office that Moon described as an effort “to fix the error in the decriminalization law that accidentally left criminal sanctions on marijuana paraphernalia.”

If Jealous becomes governor, proponents of legalization could seek to move it quickly via a legislative act of the General Assembly, with the assurance that the bill would be signed. While supporters are confident that a simple majority of both the House and Senate would back such a measure, they would have to muster a supermajority—three-fifths of each body—to override a potential veto if Hogan is re-elected. Such veto-proof margins currently exist in both houses, but Republicans hope to eliminate the Democrats’ supermajority in the Senate and are taking aim in November’s election at a half-dozen seats in competitive districts.

Moon has proposed putting legalization on the ballot as a constitutional

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amendment for Maryland voters to decide, and he seems inclined to stick to this strategy, at least for now. Although it would also take a three-fifths majority in the Senate and House of Delegates next year to get such an amendment on the ballot in 2020, legislation authorizing ballot questions is not subject to a gubernatorial veto. And Moon believes this approach could attract a number of members of the General Assembly’s Republican minority who so far have avoided a public position on legalization. In addition, in a recent response to a Baltimore Sun questionnaire, Hogan indicated he believes “a change of this magnitude and potential consequence would need to be decided by Maryland voters.”

Maryland is currently among 22 states to have legalized only the use of medical marijuana. Arguably, that program has been a double-edged sword for proponents of recreational marijuana, both in Maryland and elsewhere. “When people see firsthand that their grandmother with cancer is benefiting from medical cannabis, it often drastically changes their views on marijuana generally,” says Kate Bell, general counsel of the Marijuana Policy Project, a Washington, D.C.-based organization that has been involved in the passage of recreational marijuana laws in several states. But the five-year rollout of Maryland’s medical marijuana program has been plagued with problems, including complaints from African-American legislators that racial minorities were cut out of the process for granting licenses to grow and sell the product.

“Usually, the medical marijuana piece comes before the recreational piece, and we obviously botched the rollout of medical marijuana, for a lot of reasons,” says Democratic state Sen. Will Smith of Silver Spring, a Senate sponsor of the recreational marijuana bill that Moon introduced in the House in February 2018.

Smith says he is “optimistic that things will move much more smoothly” in the wake of legislation enacted this year to address the problems surrounding the medical marijuana rollout.

However, problems with medical marijuana programs in other states have caused proponents to be leery about moving ahead on recreational marijuana without some safeguards. David Mangone, legislative counsel for Americans for Safe Access, a national group that advocates for medical marijuana patients, says changes in the licensing process for sellers in Washington state created a shortage of medical cannabis products, as some dispensaries sought to tap into the more lucrative recreational market.

“It’s not to say we are against full legalization,” Mangone says. “But I think Maryland still has a lot of work to do to get this market fully serving patients before they can really effectively serve a whole other set of consumers.”

Technology is another area of concern. Testing to measure impairment from marijuana’s psychoactive effects currently lags behind the ability to gauge intoxication from alcohol.

“The pushback I’ve heard is that whether it’s [related to] driving or the workplace, we don’t have any good test for impairment,” says one legislator who publicly favors legalization. This legislator, who didn’t want to be named in order to speak freely, concedes: “I think that resonates with people; they can completely buy into the idea of legalizing, but are uncomfortable when these topics of public safety come into play.”

Montgomery County Police Chief Thomas Manger sidesteps the question on whether he is for or against legalization, contending the issue is “too nuanced for that.” But Manger, who backed decriminalization, says he has “concerns” about full legalization, among them impaired driving and greater accessibility to marijuana for those under 21.

“If people have the discipline to use it once in a while in the privacy of their own homes and keep it away from kids, it’s not a public safety issue at that point,” he says. “But we can’t...create an environment where that’s assured.”

Dr. Matthew Mintz, a Bethesda internist, tries to educate fellow doctors on the benefits of medical marijuana.

me to talk about this publicly, and maybe help someone else, because it’s made such a difference for me.”

DR. MATTHEW MINTZ, a Bethesda internist approved by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission to certify patients to participate in the program, wandered into the field of medical marijuana largely by happenstance.

Mintz, who lives in Rockville, spent 20 years teaching and treating patients at the George Washington University School of Medicine & Health. Weary of his commute, he opened a private concierge practice last year in the Wildwood Medical Center on Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda. Mintz’s patients pay $1,500 upfront annually in exchange for the luxury of same-day or next-day appointments, longer than standard appointments and 24/7 emergency access. Although many longtime patients followed him to his new practice, the start-up was slow, he says. He had time on his hands. One day, he walked down to check out RISE Bethesda, the new medical cannabis dispensary that was opening on the first floor of the same medical building.

Intrigued, Mintz began reading about the medicinal uses of cannabis. He applied to participate in the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission’s program. In Maryland, people hoping to buy medical marijuana can register online with the commission and receive a patient identification number. Then they visit a participating medical practitioner, such as Mintz, who interviews and examines them, reviews their medical records and assesses whether they fit Maryland’s legal criteria for buying medical cannabis. That criteria includes patients suffering from several listed conditions: chronic pain, severe pain, seizures, post-traumatic stress disorder, glaucoma, muscle spasms, severe nausea, anorexia and BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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Darlene Jessup of Potomac has rheumatoid arthritis. She uses a vape pen that contains primarily CBD oil, which relieves her pain without making her feel high.

She also takes pills with CBD in them.

wasting syndrome. There’s also a broader, less specific provision for patients who have a severe medical condition, have tried conventional remedies and have a reasonable expectation that medical cannabis will help them, Mintz says. That allows willing practitioners to certify patients with problems not specified by the state, such as severe anxiety or insomnia, to buy medical cannabis.

Mintz says his practice tends to attract sicker people who legitimately need help, and because of that he’s never refused to certify a patient. Mintz charges $250 for those visits if the patient is not a member of his regular practice.

“The way it works in Maryland is that I’m not prescribing marijuana,” he says. “All I’m doing is giving a medical opinion that the patient meets the medical requirements.

That’s essentially what my job is. Now, in my practice, I try to do a lot more than that. I try to provide medical advice.”

Mintz has observed that the judicious use of medical cannabis has especially helped some of his elderly patients, he says. Those patients often suffer chronic pain, anxiety and insomnia. Traditionally they end up on a cocktail of prescription medications—all of which have potential side effects that can be compounded when taken together. In contrast, medicinal cannabis often eases their symptoms without a lot of side effects or negative interactions with other medications that they must take, Mintz says.

Debbie Mazia, 71, of North Bethesda, who is terminally 136

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ill with metastatic breast cancer, asked Mintz to certify her to buy medical cannabis. “It’s been the best thing,” Mazia says. “It’s kept the pain level under control, which is good. It’s not getting worse. I feel calm. …It takes the hamster-cage thing totally away. That’s when you go over and over things in your head and worry. I don’t do that so much anymore.”

Mintz has become a public advocate for medicinal cannabis. He seeks out and shares the limited available research. He’s created a PowerPoint presentation on the topic that he shares with other doctors. Mintz estimates that 25 percent of his workday is now spent seeing patients who hope to be certified to buy medical marijuana. “It’s been fascinating,” he says. “It’s not something that I ever thought, that I would be an advocate for cannabis. I think as a medicine it’s not a panacea, but given its safety and efficacy profile it’s a valuable tool in any physician’s toolbox.”

DARLENE JESSUP, 56, IS in her Potomac garden on a summer afternoon, mixing concrete. She wants to point up the mortar on some stonework. Her father, who was a stonemason, taught her a bit of his craft. If someone had asked her in the summer of 2017 if she’d ever again mix concrete she might have laughed or cried. Even walking the family’s golden retriever around the block back then

was painful and required steely determination.

She’s not easily defeated. She served in the Air Force as a cryptologic linguist, a job that involves, among other things, identifying and analyzing foreign communications. After leaving the service she became a contract manager for an engineering company. In her spare time she became a licensed massage therapist and earned a master’s certificate in Spanish translation. She already had an undergraduate degree in Spanish literature. Jessup was accustomed to being fit and productive.

Then the pain struck.

More than a decade ago she started feeling constantly tired. Her joints hurt. Her doctor ran tests, ruled out Lyme disease and was stumped. She grew sicker. Eventually she was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. “By then, I was in bad shape,” she says. “I couldn’t walk.” Even the joints of her rib cage were so inflamed that it hurt to breathe deeply. Chronic pain, she says, turned her into a “shuffling, grumpy old woman.” She was only 45.

Some drugs her doctor prescribed to combat her

psychoactive component of the cannabis plant that gives users the feeling of being high. Even so, he warned her to take just one or two puffs.

Embarrassed by the experiment she was undertaking, she went into the woods to light up. “Within one to two minutes I felt the pain go away,” she recalls. “I cried. I told my friend that it was the first pain-free day I’d had in a decade. That night I had my first peaceful sleep that I could remember. I was used to waking my husband up all the time, rolling over and crying out because I hurt.”

Relief was temporary. Transporting marijuana across state lines is a federal crime—and Jessup wasn’t about to break the law. She returned to Maryland empty-handed and continued taking her prescription arthritis drugs.

In May, Jessup was sitting in her dining room. “All of a sudden the side of my face went numb and I was falling off the chair,” she says. “I had no strength.” A neurologist later told her that event might have been a ministroke and a warning that she was at risk for a larger one.

Stroke was a listed possible side effect of the long-

“I get up in [the] morning and the first thing I do is I take one puff of a vape pen,” Darlene Jessup says.

“About 30 seconds later the pain is gone.” arthritis were toxic; Jessup needed regular blood tests to determine if they were damaging her liver. “They all have side effects,” Jessup says. “Some give you headaches.

Some give you diarrhea. Some make your hair fall out. I said to my doctor, ‘Sometimes I wonder if this cure isn’t worse than the disease.’ ” She kept taking her meds, but researched alternatives.

She changed to a whole foods, plant-based diet. “That helped tremendously,” she says. “I was able to do more and move better. But I still suffered every day with pain.”

In 2016, she and her husband visited friends in Colorado. Marijuana was already legal there and easily available; her friends urged her to find out if it relieved her pain. Walking into a store that sold pot, “I couldn’t believe what I was doing,” Jessup recalls. “I have always been taught that marijuana was a bad thing. I told the man who waited on me that I didn’t want to be high, I didn’t want to feel goofy, I just wanted my pain to go away.” Her hands were so crippled there was no way she could roll a joint. The salesman suggested she buy a prerolled joint made with a strain of cannabis that had a low percentage of tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the

term use of at least one of the prescription drugs she was taking; her primary care physician told her to stop taking it, she says.

Now she doesn’t have to take it. She registered with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, was certified, and within three weeks was in a dispensary making her first purchases. “I get up in [the] morning and the first thing I do is I take one puff of a vape pen,” Jessup says.

The pen is filled with cannabidiol or CBD oil—a chemical compound in marijuana plants that’s touted to have many health benefits—combined with a small amount of THC. “About 30 seconds later the pain is gone,” Jessup says. Every six hours she takes a pill containing a microdose of CBD combined with a lesser amount of THC. “I do yard work now,” she says. “I mow the lawn. I do everything I did before I got arthritis. I got my life back.

My husband has the bride of his youth back. I am not that grumpy old lady anymore, shuffling in the house.”

Jessup has started writing to elected officials, saying they will not get her vote or her donations unless they push for federal reforms on medical cannabis. She’s a registered Republican. She puts health and happiness BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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Laura (left) and Rebecca Brown are comarket presidents in Maryland for Green Thumb Industries (GTI), a national cannabis cultivator, processor and dispensary operator. The sisters help run three medical cannabis dispensaries in Maryland, including RISE Bethesda and RISE Silver Spring.

above party. “I don’t want to sound like the next Billy Graham, except I’m preaching the gospel of weed,” she quips. “I think it’s just important that people know the truth.” She thinks it’s absurd that the federal government allows pharmaceutical companies and doctors to “hand out opioids like they are Tic Tacs” while stymieing research into medical cannabis. She thinks it’s absurd that grandparents who use medical cannabis for arthritis pain can’t cross state lines with it to visit grandkids, and that children whose seizures are kept at bay by medical cannabis can’t get on a plane with it to visit Disney.

INSIDE THE SECURE FRONT vestibule of Potomac Holistics one recent afternoon, a cheerful gatekeeper greeted each dispensary customer. She signed them in, asked for a photo ID and examined their state-issued 138

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patient identification number. Then the gatekeeper logged into a state database to verify that the customer hadn’t already purchased their monthly allotment of cannabis, which is typically 120 grams of flower or 36 grams of THC. The cap is designed, in part, to prevent people from buying larger amounts of cannabis to resell illegally. First-time customers fill out a form attesting that they won’t resell or cross state lines with cannabis products they buy here. If a customer’s paperwork is in order, the gatekeeper ushers them into a quiet waiting area that has a Zen vibe: a trickling Buddha fountain, stacks of pot-themed magazines and televised instructions on cooking with cannabis. When a sales associate is available, the customer is ushered into the dispensary, where the walls are lined with locked glass cases filled with hundreds of products. Flower from marijuana strains with names like Captains Cake, Chem Dog, G Spot and Blue Cheese typically range from $17 to $55 for one-eighth of an ounce.

There are also creams to be rubbed onto aching joints, and a tincture named Dreamy that’s reputed to help people sleep.

Maryland only allows medical cannabis dispensaries to sell products that are grown and processed in the state by approved and regulated facilities. Most dispensaries stock a wide array of cannabis products: tablets, tinctures, patches, oil-filled vape pens, lotions and multiple strains of flower to smoke. Some products are potent; they contain high concentrations of THC. Others contain little or no THC and are primarily composed of the nonpsychoactive CBD oil.

William Askinazi, 60, owns the dispensary with two partners, he says. He saw the potential of medicinal cannabis years ago, when a prescription drug based on a synthetic component of marijuana resolved his son’s serious gastrointestinal problems. Askinazi, a corporate lawyer, former assistant secretary for Maryland’s Department of Commerce and local Republican activist, mortgaged his home and devoted years to opening the

Most dispensaries stock a wide array of cannabis products: tablets, tinctures, patches, oil-filled vape pens, lotions and multiple strains of flower to smoke. dispensary. “It’s the most heavily regulated industry that I have ever been involved in,” he says. “You have to spend a lot of time to do it right.”

Entrepreneurs who’ve opened medical cannabis dispensaries in Maryland are pioneers, and many say they are reminded of that daily. Even in liberal Montgomery County, some dispensary owners or operators say it was difficult to find landlords willing to rent commercial space to them.

“Finding space was definitely a challenge, and convincing people that this would not be some hotbed of criminal activity,” says Rebecca Brown, who helped open the RISE Bethesda dispensary in the Wildwood Medical Center after other landlords turned her down. “This is as quiet as a CVS.” Finding a bank willing to open a business account for a

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cannabis dispensary is even tougher. Banks are federally regulated, and selling marijuana—while legal in Maryland through its regulated medical cannabis program—is still a federal crime. For that reason, the few banks willing to do business with cannabis dispensaries in Maryland ask them not to publicize it, owners say.

Warren Lemley, 33, grew up in Rockville, graduated from Thomas S. Wootton High School, and is now a part owner of Peake ReLeaf. The medical cannabis dispensary opened in Rockville in May. Opening Peake ReLeaf cost more than $1 million, Lemley says. Some upfront expenses aren’t obvious to the casual observer, like a 48-hour battery backup to keep the security system running during power outages, humidity-controlled storage to keep marijuana buds at peak freshness, and an industrial-size carbon filter to

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a new leaf

Warren Lemley is a part owner of Peake ReLeaf, a medical cannabis dispensary in Rockville. On a recent morning, he rearranges the merchandise before the first customers arrive.

keep the smell of cannabis from wafting through the neighborhood. Lemley and his initial partners took on additional investors.

Before he moved home to Maryland to open the dispensary, Lemley managed a restaurant in West Virginia.

“Working in the restaurant industry, the highlight of my day would be helping someone have a great anniversary or birthday celebration,” he says. Now he feels like he’s improving the quality of people’s lives more fundamentally. “That’s something that brings me a tremendous amount of joy. ” The cost of being a pioneer, however, isn’t just counted in dollars and regulatory red tape. Lemley and his wife have two daughters. The oldest is 13 and has had years of instruction in public schools about the dangers of drugs, including marijuana. “We took it upon ourselves to educate her about medical cannabis [and] why it was important for medical cannabis to be available,” Lemley says. “I don’t like saying it, but we didn’t want her to think that quote-unquote Daddy was a drug dealer.”

For Brown, 36, who grew up in Bethesda, medical cannabis is a family affair. She and her younger sister, Laura Brown, are co-market presidents in Maryland

for Green Thumb Industries (GTI), a large Chicago-based national cannabis cultivator, processor and dispensary operator. Brown and her sister help run three medical cannabis dispensaries in Maryland, two of which are in Montgomery County: RISE Bethesda and RISE Silver Spring. The sisters, with help from their parents and GTI, also opened a state-approved processing plant in Centreville, in Queen Anne’s County. At the 6,000-square-foot facility, employees—including a chemist with a Ph.D.—turn marijuana plants into a variety of cannabis products, such as tinctures, patches and oilfilled vape pens.

Brown was working as a tax attorney in Washington, D.C., in 2015 when it occurred to her that the legal skills she honed while helping clients understand all kinds of governmental rules, regulations and laws could help her navigate Maryland’s nascent medical cannabis industry.

She and a friend formed a company named Chesapeake Alternatives and applied to participate in the state program. Brown didn’t hear back from the state for a year, she recalls, but when she finally got the go-ahead she enlisted relatives to join the venture.

Initially, Brown felt awkward telling acquaintances about her entrepreneurial foray into medical cannabis. “I did struggle with it at first, especially when we received our preapproval” from the state, Brown recalls. “I had a newborn at the time. I was meeting a lot of people. I was sleep deprived. I was very nervous. I had no idea how they’d react.” On the other hand, she worried that “if I wasn’t upfront, I’d be contributing to the stigma.” Ultimately, she opted to be open and spread the word about the benefits and legality of medical marijuana. “The reactions have been nothing but positive,” she says.

Seeking expertise and investors, Brown’s company partnered with nationally expanding GTI. The Maryland

“It’s the most heavily regulated industry that I have ever been involved in,” says William Askinazi, a corporate lawyer who owns Potomac Holistics with two partners.

“You have to spend a lot of time to do it right. ”

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a new leaf Medical Cannabis Commission, however, issued a bulletin in June that could affect how Brown’s business and others are structured. The commission bulletin said that no individual or entity can have an ownership interest in more than one dispensary, one processing plant and one growing operation. All licensees are required to identify the name of each owner or investor, the commission says. GTI pushed back, arguing in a letter from a lawyer that “there is no basis in existing Maryland statutes or regulations for these purported requirements.”

THE COZY REDBRICK HOUSE on New Hampshire Avenue in Ashton is for sale. Daniel Goldberg’s parents, now 66, need a one-story home. For now, Goldberg sleeps in what used to be the family sunroom. There’s a port-a-potty

by his bed. He can make it upstairs to the family bathroom most days. At night, the stairs are daunting. He has drop foot on his right side, which means he can’t lift the front of that foot to walk safely, much less mount stairs, without putting on a brace.

Goldberg came home in a wheelchair after the crash. Now he walks around the house grabbing onto furniture for support. He typically uses two canes when he leaves home.

Walking or standing for a long time is tiring. Goldberg’s spine has flattened and can’t support his slender frame.

He bends forward slightly at the waist, and that’s likely to worsen over time, he says. He might end his days bent so far forward that he’s forever looking at the ground. “Or I might end up a hunchback,” he says. It sounds grim.

Still, he’s upbeat.

Goldberg feels grateful. He’s grateful to the doctors and nurses who saved his life. He’s grateful that his loving parents turned their lives upside down to be there for him. He’s grateful that he is not paralyzed. He’s grateful that if his damaged left arm had to be locked at the elbow that it’s at a 90-degree angle. “That’s the perfect angle for playing guitar,” he says cheerfully. “Seriously, if my arm was bent just 2 inches more or less, I couldn’t play guitar. Cooking and playing guitar are my favorite things to do.”

Goldberg excitedly shows off his guitar collection, which stands in one corner of his makeshift bedroom.

There was a time when he was listless and couldn’t force himself to play guitar. The prescription opioids he took to keep the screaming pain at bay sapped him. “The pain meds numb

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you,” he says. “You don’t feel the bad so much. You don’t feel the good, either. When I watched movies that were seriously funny, I couldn’t even laugh. I couldn’t play my guitars because the feeling of creativity was just not there. You can’t feel joy. You’re not genuinely interested in anything. You want to be, but you can’t be because you are numb.”

That’s changed. Through Maryland’s medical cannabis program, Goldberg buys capsules made with 25 milligrams of THC. He takes one daily, which gives him extended pain relief and more: a sense of peace. For breakthrough pain he smokes medical cannabis flower. Occasionally, he also drinks an elixir made with THC and CBD. Sometimes he announces to his parents something none of them ever thought they’d hear him say: “Right now, at this moment, I’m not feeling any pain.” Medical marijuana works so well for Goldberg, he says, that he decided in September to ask his pain doctor to help taper him off all opioids.

“I have these genuine feelings of happiness again,” Goldberg says.

“Those are normal feelings for people who are not on pain medication—just normal, everyday feelings. But for me, having them back is just a godsend. Laughing, really laughing from the gut, that is a godsend.”

The road ahead is still something of a dark unknown, but Goldberg feels lucky to be alive and finding his way. He lifts a guitar to play. He is playing the blues, but not feeling blue. As he strums the guitar, he smiles. His smile widens. It just feels so good to be able to smile. ■ April Witt (april@aprilwitt.com) is a former Washington Post writer.

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Zach and Randi Fishman with daughters Austyn (left) and Parker

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FAMILY TIES Potomac native Randi Fishman was 28 when she found out she had breast cancer. After treatment and then a recurrence, doctors advised her not to get pregnant. That’s when her sister offered to carry a baby for her.

BY DINA ELBOGHDADY | PHOTOS BY DEB LINDSEY

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on

O

ON A RAINY EVENING in June, Randi Fishman and her husband, Zach, are lounging on the sectional sofa at their Potomac townhouse, their two daughters snuggled between them as the television drones on in the background.

When 6-month-old Austyn needs burping, Randi is on her feet. “She loves her bottle,” Randi says as she lifts the baby, who flashes a smile from over her mom’s shoulder and tries to blow kisses to anyone who looks her way.

Austyn’s 3-year-old sister, Parker, wraps herself around her dad’s knee while the grown-ups chat. She’s in her Cinderella nightgown, exhausted and hungry after a day at camp.

For Randi, there’s nothing mundane about this scene, given how hard she’s had to fight for it. Early in their marriage, Randi and Zach, now both 35, would have giddy conversations about whether they wanted to have two children, like his family, or three, like hers. But just before their first wedding anniversary, the discovery of a small lump in Randi’s right breast changed everything. Zach can reel off from memory the dates of every major medical event that followed: Randi’s double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery in October 2011, her visit with a specialist at Shady Grove Fertility in Rockville soon after, the recurrence of the breast cancer nearly a year later, then the start of radiation treatment.

The conversation bores Parker, a lover of sparkly jewelry and hair accessories. “Stop talking,” she says, eager for attention. Randi breaks away to unfold a kiddie table and brings her little girl a slice of pizza. Austyn is propped on the couch, still smiling.

Even after Randi was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 28, she 146

planned on getting pregnant one day, so she decided she wanted to freeze her embryos for safekeeping. But when the cancer returned, her medical team advised her against carrying a child because pregnancy-related hormones could stimulate the growth of more cancerous cells. That’s when she and Zach began to seriously consider finding a gestational surrogate, someone to carry their biological child.

“We always knew surrogacy was a possibility,” says Zach, a commercial real estate developer who took the lead on researching fertility options.

“I didn’t know,” Randi says, “not at the beginning.” She’d heard about surrogacy in passing from her doctors and saw a story on the news about a mother who’d carried a baby for her grown daughter.

But for most of her adult life, Randi had just assumed she’d get pregnant. “In my wildest dreams I couldn’t imagine someone else carrying my child,” she says. She ended up using two different surrogates, and the second was her own sister.

THE CALL THAT UPENDED Randi’s life came on Oct. 14, 2011. The Winston Churchill High School graduate was living in New York City, working as a sales representative for young fashion designers, when she returned home to Potomac for the Yom Kippur holiday.

Toward the end of her visit she went in for a routine gynecological exam.

Dr. Tobie Beckerman felt a small lump in Randi’s right breast but didn’t think much of it. The chances of breast cancer at Randi’s age were slim—according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), 1.9 percent of new female breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women ages 20 to 34. Beckerman figured it was a cyst, or normal glandular tissue that was

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unusually close to the surface. Nothing to panic about, she said, just something to monitor. But because Randi was going back to New York, the gynecologist ordered a sonogram that day.

Randi wasn’t worried until the image revealed a mass. The radiologist kept saying it looked “weird,” without offering specifics, she recalls. “That’s when I started to panic,” Randi says. She rushed back to see Beckerman, who scheduled a biopsy for the following day with Dr. Glenn Sandler, a local surgeon with a special interest in breast surgery. Three

days later Randi was at home in New York with Zach, her cellphone next to her, waiting for Sandler to call with the results. When she heard the doctor say “cancer,” she froze. The tears began to flow. She didn’t hear anything else, she says. Zach asked most of the questions.

Let’s not rush to panic, he thought, let’s figure out what we’re up against.

Still emotional, Randi called her mother, Devon Burak, who told her to get on a train and come home. Randi’s two sisters, who also lived in New York City, dropped everything when

they heard. Her sister Erin, who is 15 months older, screamed into the phone, then dashed out of her office to meet her husband, Evan, at their apartment.

They tossed some clothes into a bag and left for Penn Station. Randi’s younger sister, Jamie, ran straight to the train station from work. The three girls had grown closer as they got older. They’d had a love-hate relationship when they were younger, as sisters often do. Randi would lock her bedroom door when friends were over and refuse to let her little sister in. Jamie would sit in their

Randi (right) was diagnosed with breast cancer at 28. Her sister, Erin Silverman, became her surrogate in 2017.

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Jack and Jill bathroom, ear pressed to the door trying to eavesdrop, and Erin, the quietest of the three, would play peacemaker: “Come on, Randi, just let her in.”

When Erin and Randi graduated from high school, a year apart, their mom thought Jamie would revel in having space to herself, but the teen was miserable without her sisters around. The girls’ bond tightened once all three were in college—Erin left for Indiana, Randi for New York and Jamie for Wisconsin— and they were ecstatic when they all eventually ended up in New York City.

“We would do anything for each other,” says Jamie, 31. “Anything.”

Within two hours of finding out that Randi had breast cancer, Erin and Jamie were huddled around their sister as they all waited to get on a train to D.C. Erin remembers Randi clinging to her old baby blanket during the ride, crying to the point of exhaustion.

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Sisters Jamie (left), Randi and Erin in the Hamptons this past summer

her surgeon’s office on Monday morning to discuss her treatment options—a lumpectomy to remove the cancerous tumor or a mastectomy to remove one or both breasts—she had already made up her mind. “As soon as I knew I had cancer, I wanted a double mastectomy,” she says. “I’m the type of person who would worry every second of every day about whether it would come back.”

She also wanted to get tested for defects in the BRCA (short for breast cancer) genes, which she did the following day. The genes—BRCA1 and BRCA2—help repair damaged DNA and suppress the growth of tumors, but when they aren’t functioning properly they sharply increase a woman’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer. People who carry one or both of the defective genes

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also tend to develop those cancers at a younger age. Devon Burak had feared for years that her daughters might have inherited a BRCA mutation. Her mother-in-law died of ovarian cancer at 51, before scientists discovered the genes. Perhaps a BRCA abnormality had contributed to that cancer, she’d think, and maybe her husband had inherited it.

“I’d been asking Billy for a good 10 years to get tested, but he wouldn’t do it,” she says. “I knew about his mother’s ovarian cancer, and I was worried. I guess he was in denial.”

That wasn’t it, her husband says. It’s just that he’s had complicated relationships with doctors ever since his mother died. His parents never told him or his sister about the cancer until about a week before she passed away. He was

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIN SILVERMAN

RANDI BURSTS OUT LAUGHING when she spots Erin, 36, approaching at a Starbucks in Potomac one afternoon in June wearing faded jeans and a cold shoulder black top. “We look like twins,” she says, pointing to her own outfit. The sisters live about five minutes apart—Randi moved back to Montgomery County after her diagnosis, and Erin left New York City about a year later. They see each other nearly every day. Their friend groups still overlap, like they did in high school, and their families take vacations together. Seven years have passed since Randi found out she was sick—Erin has had two daughters of her own since then, and she’s also carried her sister’s second baby.

“There’s a lot of hope out there for people going through any part of what I’ve been through,” Randi says.

When Randi walked into her parents’ Potomac home from the train station that Friday night in October 2011, her mother hugged and kissed her, wishing with all her might that she could take the cancer away and give it to herself instead. Before Randi even arrived at

After spending a few weeks on bed rest due to pregnancy complications, Erin delivered her sister’s baby, Austyn, on Dec. 8, 2017. Pictured, from left to right: Zach, Randi, baby Austyn, Erin and Evan.

22. “I have a fear of doctors,” Billy Burak says. “I don’t like going through medical procedures.” Besides, he thought he had more time to think about the BRCA testing, he says. He never imagined that any of his daughters were at risk of getting breast cancer so young.

Randi’s situation—the early onset of her breast cancer, the family history of ovarian cancer—raised red flags, and so did her heritage. Randi is an Ashkenazi Jew, or a Jew of Central or Eastern European descent. In the U.S., about one in 400 people carry a BRCA mutation; among Ashkenazi Jews, about one in 40 is a carrier, according to Myriad Genetics, one of the oldest genetics testing labs and the first to administer BRCA testing. “There was no question Randi needed to be tested,” Beckerman says. “I

recommend that every Ashkenazi Jewish woman, regardless of age, get tested for the BRCA gene mutation if they have a personal history of breast cancer. The knowledge for the family is crucial.”

The blood test showed that Randi had inherited a BRCA1 mutation from at least one of her parents. Women who inherit this defect have an up to 87 percent risk of developing breast cancer by age 70—compared to a risk of up to 7.3 percent in the general U.S. population—and an up to 63 percent risk for developing ovarian cancer, according to Myriad Genetics.

Because of the ovarian cancer risk, Randi’s doctors told her she would need to consider having her ovaries removed in the future. The BRCA result also had implications for Randi’s family—it

meant that her sisters could also be carriers. It also meant that Randi might pass along the defective gene to the children she so badly wanted to have. Each child of a parent who has a faulty BRCA gene has a 50 percent chance of inheriting the mutation.

It was almost too much to process all at once, Randi says. But knowing she had the mutation strengthened her resolve to follow through with a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. She understood that with both a lumpectomy or a mastectomy, there was no guarantee the cancer wouldn’t return, but a mastectomy offered her more peace of mind and minimized the chance of a local recurrence. Sandler endorsed her decision.

Randi had the seven-hour surgery on Oct. 31, 2011, a few weeks after her diagnosis. The mass was small, less than 2 centimeters, and the cancer had not spread to the lymph nodes. “We consider that early breast cancer, and curable breast cancer,” Sandler says.

A few weeks after Randi’s surgery, her mother and sisters underwent BRCA testing. One by one, they received their results by phone. Randi’s mother was negative; so was Erin. Jamie tested positive. There was no need for their father to get tested—by process of elimination, they knew he was the carrier.

To cope with the shock, Jamie channeled Randi’s positive attitude. “Randi was so strong,” Jamie says. “She powered through, did everything she was supposed to do and barely complained about it.” In February 2012, Jamie had a preventive double mastectomy and breast reconstruction. She was 25 and single at the time. Randi, who had just finished with her first round of fertility treatments, coached Jamie through it. She reassured her younger sister that she’d be fine, and warned her that immediately after the surgery she’d feel like she had an elephant sitting on her chest.

As Erin watched Randi, then Jamie, go through long recoveries, she was aghast, unable to process why they had the

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BRCA mutation and she didn’t. “I took it really hard,” she says. “I kept thinking, why am I the only one who is negative?”

WHEN RANDI AND ZACH first met with a specialist at Shady Grove Fertility in November 2011, about three weeks after Randi’s surgery, the plan was for the couple to freeze their embryos through in vitro fertilization. They were anxious and pressed for time, says Dr. Jeanne O’Brien, the reproductive endocrinologist who worked with them.

Randi’s oncologists wanted to put her on tamoxifen, a medication used to treat breast cancer, for at least two years. But the couple feared the drug would suppress her ovarian function in the future, so they wanted to create the embryos before Randi started taking it. “The hope was that she would be able to get pregnant once the cancer treatment was completed,” O’Brien says.

In September 2012, Randi’s cancer returned. A recurrence is rare for women who have undergone a double mastectomy, but it can happen, Sandler says.

Even though nearly all the breast tissue is removed during a mastectomy, any residual breast tissue—or even a cell— can transform into a recurrent cancer in a small number of patients. Randi’s team of physicians created a treatment plan and Sandler removed the tiny tumor on her right side. She then underwent about six weeks of radiation therapy. Doctors were confident that the surgery was successful, but feared that a pregnancy, even years later, could lead to another relapse—or a new cancer.

“I didn’t think it was worth the risk.

For some reason I was calm when they told me,” Randi says. By that time, she and Zach had successfully frozen several embryos, and doctors had screened those embryos for the BRCA1 defect that Randi had. Four of the embryos were free of the mutation. Randi’s doctors shared reassuring stories about patients who had worked with gestational surrogates. “The more people I talked to about this option, the more I became OK with it,” she says.

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Erin and Randi live about five minutes apart and see each other nearly every day; their families vacation together. In this photo: Evan, holding Ryan; Erin, with Cori; Randi, holding Austyn; Zach, with Parker.

When Randi spoke to her family about the idea, Erin, Jamie and Zach’s sister all casually told her they’d be happy to be her surrogate one day. “She’s my sister, my best friend, and she’d been through a horrible experience, so of course I was going to do it,” Erin says. “It didn’t seem

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like a big deal to take a few months to do this for her.”

But Erin wanted to have her own kids first, which was just as well. Medical guidelines set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine recommend that a woman deliver at least one healthy baby of her own before carrying someone else’s child, so Zach’s sister and Jamie didn’t qualify, either. In January 2013, after Randi’s radiation treatment ended, she and Zach hired Meryl Rosenberg, a surrogacy attorney in Potomac, to vet other potential candidates, preferably on

the East Coast or in the Midwest to cut down on travel. Eight weeks later they found the right match—Jodi Maher, a mother of two in Madison, Wisconsin.

(Maybe it was karma, Randi still muses.

She met Zach in Madison in 2003, when he was a senior at the University of Wisconsin and she was there visiting a friend.) Maher underwent medical and mental health screenings, signed the surrogacy contract and started taking a series of hormone shots to prepare her body for the embryo transfer. The first attempt failed, but the second was

successful. In February 2014, Maher got pregnant using one of the embryos Randi and Zach had frozen.

Randi and Maher texted daily. “Randi and Zach were so super easy, no crazy demands, no checking on what I was eating,” Maher says. “Randi’s mom even sent me matzo ball soup in a huge box packed with ice because she knew I liked it.” The couple flew to Wisconsin to attend doctor visits, and they were on Skype during the sonogram when the obstetrician told Maher the baby was a girl. When Maher developed high blood

pressure toward the end of the pregnancy, her doctor decided to induce labor. Randi and Zach arrived in Wisconsin two days before the scheduled birth. They were in the delivery room when Parker Madison Fishman arrived on Sept. 20, 2014. Randi was the first to hold her.

ABOUT 4½ MONTHS BEFORE Parker was born, Erin gave birth to her first daughter, Ryan, now 4. Her second daughter, Cori, now 2, arrived 18 months later. Of all the women who had volunteered to be a surrogate for Randi, Erin was the first to have children. “I had no hesitation about going through with another pregnancy just one more time for Randi,” she says. There was no family meeting, no drawn-out formal discussions. The sisters just decided between themselves that they’d start the process in November 2016, after Jamie’s wedding. Erin’s youngest daughter would be a year old by then. “I wanted to be done,” Erin says. “I didn’t want to wait for years and get pregnant again.”

Erin’s husband, Evan, was on board from the start, especially when he understood that having Erin carry the baby would substantially ease the financial burden on Randi and Zach, who had paid more than $100,000 the first time around, with help from Randi’s parents.

That money covered legal fees, the surrogate’s compensation and related medical costs, including $7,500 for each of the two embryo transfers. (Randi says her insurance didn’t cover anything related to the surrogacy.) When Erin was the surrogate, Randi and Zach spent about $60,000, mostly to pay her medical bills.

“Now it’s like we’re starting all over again financially,” says Randi, who works part time as a personnel director at a creative agency in Rockville and also sells jewelry that she makes. “But the girls are worth every penny.”

Looking back, Erin says she has no regrets, though perhaps she didn’t fully appreciate what the commitment entailed. She didn’t realize, for instance, that even though Randi was her sister,

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family ties

she’d need to deal with the same paperwork and mental health evaluations required of any other surrogate. Nor did she understand how painful or disruptive the hormone shots would be. The shots, given for 10 weeks to build the lining of the uterus and sustain a pregnancy during its early stages, are injected straight into the gluteus muscles every three days for the first two weeks and then every day for the next eight weeks.

“Evan doesn’t do needles,” Erin says, so her mother or Zach usually administered the shots, alternating sides each time. “It really hurt,” she says. She had to get the injections between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., when Evan was often still at work, so Randi would give Erin’s kids dinner and keep them occupied down in the basement.

The transfer of the embryo, when it finally happened, was easy by

comparison. But after four weeks of shots, it didn’t take. Erin knew it wasn’t her fault, but she still felt slightly guilty.

Randi felt panicked. She and Zach now had only one embryo left that was free of the BRCA1 mutation. “That was our last chance,” Randi says. Given her history, she was sure that doctors wouldn’t want her to go through another round of fertility treatments. Maybe, if all else failed, she’d consider using one of the remaining frozen embryos that carried the gene defect. But she desperately hoped it wouldn’t come to that.

The routine started all over again, the shots and disruptions. After the second embryo was transferred in April 2017, the two-week wait seemed endless.

But it was worth it: Erin was pregnant.

When Randi got the news from the fertility specialist, she immediately called Erin, who was at the dentist’s office with

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one of her daughters. The sisters then crossed paths in the dentist’s parking lot as Randi was heading in for an appointment with Parker. “We hugged, of course,” Randi says. “But I was nervous.

There was always one more hurdle. One more blood test or something. I’d say I didn’t allow myself to feel very excited until the last trimester.”

The pregnancy was uneventful at the start, with only a few minor issues—like when Erin, in the first trimester, wanted to order dessert at a restaurant and Zach wouldn’t let her because all of the choices contained alcohol or raw eggs. “I hadn’t eaten dinner because I was nauseous, and all I wanted was dessert,” Erin says. “They were making it a joke, but I knew he was totally being serious.” She passed on the dessert, and they laugh about it now.

But as the pregnancy progressed, it

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took an unexpected physical toll on Erin.

Six months into it, her placenta ripped and the doctor advised her not to lift anything heavy, including her children, she says. A few weeks before Austyn was born, Erin was put on bed rest due to high blood pressure. She hired full-time help and relied heavily on family when the nanny left for the evening.

“That was hard for me because I’m a stay-at-home mom and I’m used to doing things for myself,” says Erin, who started an at-home business selling a line of kids apparel when she was pregnant with Austyn. “Ryan would say, ‘When there’s no baby in your belly, you’ll hold me.’ ” When doctors decided to induce labor on Dec. 8, 2017, Erin expected the delivery to be as easy as it was with her own two children. Evan was by her side. Zach was supposed to cut the umbilical cord,

and Randi would hold the baby moments later. But nothing went as planned.

When Austyn’s head appeared, her face and neck were tangled in the umbilical cord. A nurse cut the cord and rushed to check the baby’s vital signs before handing her to Randi.

“Once Austyn was on me, I just wanted to bring her to Erin, but I couldn’t,” Randi says. By then, doctors and nurses were swarming all around her sister, who had developed a complication because she couldn’t deliver the placenta. “I was freaking out,” Erin says. “A doctor had to manually go in and pull it out.” Five weeks later, Erin had another complication and was rushed to the emergency room.

Erin is fine now, and her childbearing days are over. Randi had a hysterectomy earlier this year. They can now retell the saga with smiles on their faces. “I’m

done,” Randi says. “For me to have two beautiful daughters who are healthy and without the BRCA mutation is nothing short of miraculous.”

Erin and Randi’s older daughters don’t ask any questions about all that’s unfolded. Ryan understood that her mother was carrying a baby that would go to Randi’s house after she was born, and Parker knew that her aunt was carrying her sister in her belly. “It didn’t faze them,” Erin says.

The cousins now see each other a few times a week. The three oldest girls attend the same preschool and share some of the same friends, like their moms did. They fight once in a while, too, just like sisters. n Dina ElBoghdady spent more than two decades as a journalist at several newspapers, most recently The Washington Post.

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Left to right: Ike Grigoropoulos, Ted Xenohristos, and Dimitri Moshovitis at the original fast-casual CAVA on Bethesda Avenue.

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A CONVERSATION WITH

THE CAVA GUYS The unstoppable creators of Crazy Feta talk about growing up Greek, mistakes they’ve made and the pressures of success

BY CAROLE SUGARMAN | PHOTO BY DEB LINDSEY

THE FOUNDERS OF CAVA are having coffee at their original fast-casual restaurant on Bethesda Row, chatting about the changes to the eatery since it opened in 2011. Ted Xenohristos notes that they’ve added salad bins, Ike Grigoropoulos says the menu has grown, and Executive Chef Dimitri Moshovitis offers details—they started with three proteins and three dressings, and now there are six of each, plus a seasonal roasted vegetable.

Those examples are small potatoes, however, compared to what else has changed. By the end of this year there will be 75 CAVA locations around the country. In August, CAVA Group Inc. announced that it was acquiring Zoës Kitchen, a Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant chain, for about $300 million. Once the deal is finalized in the next few months, the joint companies will have more than 330 restaurants in 24 states and the District.

By any measure, it’s an admirable growth spurt for the first-generation Greek trio, longtime friends who grew up in Montgomery County and whose love of family, food and heritage has fueled their motivation and achievements. Their accomplishments include five CAVA Mezze restaurants, full-service eateries that feature small plates; Sugo Osteria, an Italian restaurant in Potomac; and Julii, a new French-Mediterranean restaurant at Pike & Rose in North Bethesda that was slated to open this fall. The company’s Mediterranean dips and spreads are sold in more than 250 Whole Foods Markets and specialty stores.

As a testament to his culinary and familial roots, Moshovitis still gets together with his mother most mornings to have coffee; they both live in Darnestown.

They’ll talk about what she prepared for dinner the night before and what she’s making that day. Angeliki Moshovitis, an avid cook and inspiration to her son, still bakes the baklava for the CAVA Mezze restaurant in Rockville, where Dimitri and his buddies got their start in 2006. The idea for that restaurant, based on the shared plates (mezze) they grew up eating at home and during visits to Greece, was hatched over coffee, too.

(Cava, which usually refers to a Spanish sparkling wine, is also a category of prestigious Greek aged blends.)

Before CAVA Mezze became a reality, Moshovitis, now 39, was cooking at Bethesda’s Tel Aviv Café (which has since closed) after dropping out of Quince Orchard High School in Gaithersburg to go to culinary school in Baltimore; Grigoropoulos, now 38, and Xenohristos, now 40, were both working as waiters at Olazzo in Bethesda. Grigoropoulos, who attended Gaithersburg High School, had graduated from the University of Baltimore with an accounting degree, and Xenohristos, who went to Paint Branch High School in Burtonsville, attended the University of Maryland but did not graduate. The three had known each other since they were kids, connected through a close-knit Greek community and getting together regularly for church activities such as basketball, picnics and dances.

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Sitting down with them at the first fast-casual CAVA on Bethesda Avenue, they seem like the same jovial, genuine guys they must have been decades ago. At one point, Ike jokes that he’s the best-looking of the three, and he and Ted (who live in the same Rockville neighborhood) later kid Dimitri for quitting their basketball team to pursue his passion of becoming a chef. “One of the main reasons we’ve been successful is that we remember at the end of the day that we’re friends,” Dimitri says. “We still make fun of each other the same way we made fun of each other when we were younger. We find time to hang out. We go to each other’s houses on the weekends to watch football. I don’t think there’s a day that goes by that we don’t talk to each other. It’s a stressful business, and we try to keep it as fun as possible.”

What were you like as kids?

Ted: We grew up as immigrant kids. I never had a peanut butter and jelly until I got to college. We would go to lunch at school and I’d unpack my spanakopita, and people would be like, ‘Ugh, what’s that smell?’ And I think we kind of bonded over that. We had the same kinds of stories, the same upbringing. I think we were a little bit wild.

Did you get into trouble?

Dimitri: Innocent trouble, compared to what you hear about today. Back then it was like skipping school. I didn’t care much for school. One common thing we had is that we had hardworking parents.

I think that made us not get too crazy.

Ike: We also worked a lot. We had jobs from very young ages. We’ve been working in restaurants for as far back as I can remember.

Ted: My mom worked as a waitress at the Tally-Ho Restaurant [in Potomac].

It’s my mom’s sister’s restaurant. She used to drag me there. Even when I was 156

really young [11 years old], on the weekends I’d wash dishes.

I’m sure you all have a lot of foodrelated memories from when you were growing up. What stands out?

Ike: One big thing for me is Easter. We used to put a lamb on a spit in our [Gaithersburg] neighborhood. As a kid, going to the bus stop the next day was always an adventure. Everyone would talk about it, saying, ‘They had a whole animal on a spit!’ It’s delicious, but people weren’t used to seeing things like that.

Ted: I feel like my whole life revolved around food. Both my parents worked hard, but then my mom would come home and still, every single night, she made dinner. And it wasn’t a frozen dinner. It would be a leg of lamb, potatoes, it wouldn’t just be one thing. Still today, she invites us over and makes like 50 things, when you only really need two.

And she always makes enough so that everyone can take home leftovers.

Dimitri: Like Ted said, there’s not anything we do in our lives that food isn’t somehow incorporated into it. Whether it’s a christening of a child, or even a funeral. Everything revolves around food.

I understand that your immigrant parents weren’t eager for you to go into the restaurant business, that they wanted you to be professionals, like accountants. So what do they think now?

Dimitri: I don’t think any immigrant parents come over and think, I can’t wait to work my butt off so my kids can wash dishes. Now, they’re obviously proud of us. I hope.

Ted: Our parents had a short list of what they wanted us to achieve. Number one was marry a Greek girl. Number two was go to school. Number three was become a doctor or lawyer. We’re 0 for 3. I think they’re pretty proud of us. I hope so. I don’t know what else we gotta do.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Ike: My mom cried for two weeks when I told her I was going to open a restaurant with these guys and quit my job. Now she couldn’t be prouder. I think there’s a lot of pride because we’re doing it with Greek food and really showcasing our heritage.

Looking back on those early days of CAVA Mezze in Rockville, what were some of the biggest mistakes you made—and what did you learn?

Dimitri: How many pages are you writing?

Ted: We had to learn to operate from a business perspective. We learned that, hey, we paid $10 for these scallops, we should be selling them for $30, not $12.

We also learned real quickly that we needed more than one dishwasher. We learned the hard way, because it was us washing dishes.

Dimitri: We were scared. We wanted to please people, to give them a good deal.

I think the same thing today. We just do it a little bit differently. We’re smarter.

Ike: I remember bartending for the first two, three weeks. I’d give all the tips to whoever I was working with, just to make sure that they were happy, that they weren’t going to leave. We were so focused on that, and [on] putting out a great product, that everything else was on the back burner.

When the first fast-casual CAVA was opened in 2011, five years later, how much more prepared do you think you were?

Ted: Probably less prepared, in a funny way, because it was so different from what we were doing. Especially on the food side, we learned real quickly that the food was sitting on the line, and we had these deep pans, and it was getting kind of old and mushy.

Dimitri: We just shortened up some of the pans and cooked in smaller quantities. That worked some. But then we had to figure out: When are people coming

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interview in? What are they getting? So these are systems that are in place today, but we learned the hard way.

Ike: Brett [Schulman, the CEO of CAVA Group Inc. since 2010] has been focused on this from day one. Collecting data and really analyzing it so that we can understand these things. The goal is to be able to get fresh food and to make sure it tastes the way it’s supposed to taste.

With expansion, there’s always a concern about growth compromising quality. How do you keep on top of that?

Dimitri: From the culinary side, we have a huge team that goes out to the stores.

We meet once a week, sometimes twice a week. This week I have three meetings.

If there’s an issue that keeps arising, we go back to R&D [research and development] pretty quickly. It could be somebody who sends me a text and says, ‘Hey, I was just in your Columbia store, and everything is great but you should check the seasoning on X, Y, Z.’ If I see that there’s a pattern, hey, there must be something wrong with the recipe that we need to tweak. These things do happen, especially when you’re serving so many people every day. But it’s not as bad as you would think.

Ted: We’re all involved in the R&D. We’re tasting, we’re drinking. We’re currently drinking juices that will go on the menu a year from now. We’re always tasting new ground beef, different vegetables. We’re always seeing how we can improve.

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How many employees do you have?

Ike: 2,200, 2,300 employees all together.

Ted: We try to get out to the stores and meet all the store members. We’re doing a GM [general manager] retreat in a couple weeks. Every GM from around the country is flying into D.C. Ike: I remember our first one, there were like four people.

Dimitri: We also do new store openings, where we go and meet the new team members. We bring them doughnuts, we have a little story time. It’s not only about us. It’s about them, too. How did

they come to CAVA? What’s their story?

Ike: It’s one of my favorite things we do.

What kind of employees do you look for?

Ted: We have a whole team of recruiters. We also promote from within, which is something we’ve done from day one. I think with our growth plan— to open 30 stores in 2019, and another 30-something in 2020—everyone sees opportunity. The $13 an hour we went to really helped. People found us. Even in Charlotte [North Carolina], where the minimum wage is maybe 8, 9 bucks, we’re paying $13.

Ike: We also have very strong benefits.

We want to be able to hire people who make a career out of this. When we first started, we’d meet people in the restaurant who would be like, ‘Well, I’m doing this for now.’ It was like, ‘Why? Do you not enjoy this?’ A lot of people enjoy it, we enjoy it. We love it.

Dimitri: It’s very satisfying work. It really is. From a kitchen standpoint, there’s camaraderie, you meet so many people from so many different walks of life. You go from working with someone you’ve never met to them being your right hand and knowing every move they make. You can’t find that in a lot of jobs.

Moving on to the acquisition of Zoës Kitchen, tell me why this is a good idea.

Ike: We have a shared heritage. GreekAmericans started Zoës. And they have a great real estate footprint, especially in the South.

So I know there’s a lot of uncertainty over how the purchase—once it goes through—will affect the menus. I actually went to Zoës Kitchen yesterday, and after eating there I feel like you’re going to want to make some changes. [Laughter] Dimitri: At the end of the day, they have some great things going on, and we have some great things going on. They do some things wrong, and we’re not perfect, either. So I think we take a lot of

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interview the stuff they do right and we also learn from them, as well. Like their catering, for instance, is top notch. Our catering is not.

What do you think they might be able to learn from you?

Dimitri: I think just putting a little bit more soul into the food. And I’m speaking strictly from a food perspective. Big flavors, that’s always been our thing at CAVA is big bold flavors. I think bringing some of that, bringing some spice.

So what do you eat at CAVA—and what are the biggest mistakes people make when customizing their meals?

Dimitri: I always pick up a rice bowl with spicy lamb meatballs, harissa, all the veggies. I always add the seasonal toppings and/or dressings to see how the new combinations are working. When we made the menu, and when we develop new items, we make sure that anything you put in the bowl is all in complete harmony with each other. The biggest mistake is not putting enough in your bowl.

Has this amazing business growth changed you?

Dimitri: I think it’s made us more appreciative of what we have. We do have a huge responsibility, not only for the employees, but for our culture and what we stand for. There are certain things that always change when you get bigger, but if the core stuff stays there—don’t compromise on food, don’t compromise on service, treat the team the way the team’s supposed to be treated—I think that’s the base in the winning recipe.

Ted: What’s always driven us [is that] we can’t fail because we can’t let our parents down. They helped us build this restaurant, they came over here, all the way from another country, they busted their butts, they worked construction, waited tables, they did everything they could to give us an opportunity.

So do you feel a lot of pressure?

Ike: I don’t think we feel pressure. But there’s definitely something. You want 160

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to succeed. It’s been our drive from day one. We’ve been very fortunate. Even our investors are amazing. We appreciate that. We don’t come from money. We’ve worked for everything that we have. We feel the need to be successful because we don’t want to let people down.

Dimitri: I feel pressure. [Laughter] With 65 [CAVA] stores, the 200 Whole Foods and all the dips that people are buying, plus all the food service and catering we’re doing—that’s a lot of people who critique you or praise you at the end of that day. I like being nervous. It helps you not lay back.

Ted: I agree with Dimitri. I wake up, I feel the pressure. It’s like nervous butterflies, like going out on a first date. I think we’re always feeling a little bit of pressure because we’re always doing something new as we grow.

You’ve really expanded from your home base. Do you still feel a strong connection to Montgomery County?

Ted: It’s where we were born, where we were raised, where we go to church. I went away to California [to open CAVA restaurants] and my mom gave me crap for the whole year and a half that I was gone. We can’t move too far away from our families. We have everything here.

Dimitri: I’m raising my kids in Montgomery County. I have two little ones, an 11-year-old and a 9-year-old. There’s no better place for them to grow up than Montgomery County.

Ted: The other day I walked into a grocery store and I saw a customer who had been eating at the original CAVA [in Rockville] since day one, and he was like, ‘Come here, give me a hug, I’m so proud of you guys. I remember coming to the restaurant in the first week or two and how hard you guys worked. You guys really deserve it.’ We’re kind of like the home team. Our customers are cheering for us. n Carole Sugarman is a longtime food writer and a contributing editor at Bethesda Magazine. The Bethesda Interview is edited for clarity and length.

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GUARDIANSHIP CAN BE A DIFFICULT BUT NECESSARY CHOICE

More and more adult children are caring for older loved ones, especially aging parents. When a person is no longer able to make or communicate safe decisions about his or her person or property due to age, disease, or disability, it may be time to consider whether guardianship is appropriate for your family.

Guardianship is a legal proceeding where a guardian is appointed to exercise legal decision making for a person no longer able to do so. Guardianship may occur when a person has become incapacitated and has created no advance medical directives or estate plan. In such an event, guardianship may be the only option for family members or close friends seeking to ensure the safety and financial well-being of their loved ones.

One of the best ways to avoid guardianship is to create an estate plan and occasionally review it to make sure it is consistent with the person’s wishes.

Becoming a guardian is a complicated process that requires successful submission of a petition for guardianship, along with filing two certificates by medical or mental health professionals attesting to the loved one’s disability. A court hearing before a Circuit Court Judge is also required. In 2018 major changes to the Maryland Rules on how the courts manage guardianships went into effect.

These changes included: • Mandatory trainings for appointed guardians; • Requirements for certificates to be completed by medical and mental health care providers; and • Eligibility requirements for attorneys appointed to represent the alleged disabled person.

These new rules are part of the court’s ongoing and continuing effort to ensure the safety and well-being of this vulnerable population.

301-340-2020 • www.steinsperling.com Julie Christopher is a partner in the Family Law department at Stein Sperling. She concentrates her practice in the areas of domestic relations. Julie is trained to serve as a child privilege, best interests, or child advocate attorney, and as court-appointed counsel for alleged disabled persons and as guardian of property .

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GOING

From a company that’s boosting energy efficiency in buildings to the creators of an app that checks the health of streams, here are the winners of this year’s Bethesda Magazine Green Awards, held in partnership with Bethesda Green

BY CARALEE ADAMS

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PHOTO BY DARREN HIGGINS

green

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PHOTO BY DARREN HIGGINS

RECYCLING BIKES INTO HOPE

Keith Oberg at the Bikes for the World warehouse in Rockville

As a project economist visiting potential grant sites in rural Latin America, Keith Oberg noticed how useful a bike could be for things like helping a carpenter carry his tools to a job or getting a student to school. In 2005, he started Bikes for the World as a sponsored project of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association, and in 2011 it became an independent nonprofit.

The four-employee organization operates out of a 5,400-square-foot warehouse in Rockville where bikes are collected and sorted. More than 140,000 bikes have been sent to 12 countries, including Costa Rica, Sierra Leone, Ghana, Madagascar and El Salvador.

“I saw so much potential. It was exciting to do something new and grow it,” says Oberg, who has retired from his role as executive director and is now involved part time with the organization. The 67-year-old saw the Bikes for the World model as a “win-win.” When a bike is donated, it is given a new life rather than being dumped in a landfill. Local volunteers do meaningful hands-on work and learn bike-repair skills as they prepare bikes for shipping. Nonprofit partners abroad repair the bikes, and individuals in need get a low-cost form of critical transportation.

“These are bikes that you might be tripping over in your garage, you are ready to upgrade or the kids outgrew,” says Liz Daley, director of development at Bikes for the World. “They are turned into tools of empowerment for somebody to change their life.”

Each year, about 1,000 volunteers—kids as young as 8, corporate groups, scout troops and retirees among them—work in the warehouse to make bikes as compact as possible (rotating handlebars, removing pedals) so they can be squeezed into shipping containers. Bikes that are too damaged are stripped for parts, which are shipped as well.

Ken Woodard, chair of the Upper School history department at Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Bethesda, regularly brings groups of girls to volunteer.

“Keith is brilliant at articulating the mission and explaining to the students why what they are doing is so important,” Woodard says. “When they show up, there is a pile of old bikes, and after, there is a stack of usable parts. The benefit of their achievement is immediately obvious.”

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 165

Gregg Trilling of the Audubon Naturalist Society helped field-test the nonprofit’s Creek Critters app, which helps with assessing water quality.

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Throughout the year, curious nature lovers head out to local streams with their smartphones to take a close look at what’s living in the water.

With a drawstring backpack kit provided by the Audubon Naturalist Society (ANS) in Chevy Chase, volunteers can use a net, spoon, small white bucket and magnifying box to scoop up samples from the water. A Creek Critters app developed by the society helps participants sort through bug types and identify them by shape or the number of legs.

“People get really excited about being in the stream and finding macroinvertebrates,” says Gregg Trilling, Creek Critters’ program manager, who helped field-test the free downloadable app.

The idea came from an ANS supporter who was interested in a modern, mobile way of testing water quality and funded the project. An ANS team worked with programmers to create the app, which was introduced in 2015 and has been refined each year since. It aims in part to promote citizen science.

“This kind of tool is handy, and many people find it easier to use than other printed identification worksheets,” Trilling says.

The health of a stream can be determined by how many creatures call it home, from dragonfly larvae to hellgrammites to leeches and crane flies. App users’ reports on a stream’s health are displayed on a map maintained by ANS. Generally, less diversity in a stream indicates poor water quality. Lisa Alexander, executive director of ANS, says the small creatures living in the water are good bioindicators because different bugs can tolerate different levels of pollution.

“We call it a canary in the coal mine. These interesting macroinvertebrates drop out when the water becomes more polluted,” she says.

The organization’s hope is that the app will call attention to the problem of stormwater runoff and motivate people to take action.

Sarah Morse, executive director of the Little Falls Watershed Alliance, a local environmental group, says the app has been embraced at the organization’s Creek Critter Days, held twice a year.

“Truly, people don’t know that anything lives in the creek besides fish. When they use the app, you hear people call out, ‘Wow!’ It’s this ‘aha!’ ” Morse says. “For us, it’s building a new set of enthusiasts for the stream and gets them to see how what they do impacts what lives in the stream.”

PHOTO BY DARREN HIGGINS

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Founding Farmers’ Dan Simons and Erin Chalkley, at the company’s restaurant in Potomac

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

PHOTO BY DARREN HIGGINS

GROUNDED IN GREEN FROM FARM TO TABLE From the ingredients the company purchases in bulk to the way its food is cooked from scratch and how it disposes of trash, Founding Farmers has long worked to be Earth-friendly. In June, it launched an initiative to eliminate the use of plastic straws, with nearly 150 restaurants, bars, hotels and organizations in the Washington, D.C., area taking the pledge to #StopSucking as part of its “Our Last Straw” campaign.

The company’s effort to educate the public about the environmental harm caused by single-use plastic straws morphed into a spinoff nonprofit and has garnered support from the D.C. government.

“This issue is so important,” says Dan Simons, co-owner of Farmers Restaurant Group, which has six locations in the D.C. area and one near Philadelphia. “It kind of mortifies me the way humans are destroying the planet. I thought straws were a good issue to go outside our four walls on.”

The campaign builds on Founding Farmers’ broad sustainability practices. The company is majority owned by a union of more than 47,000 farmers, and much of its food is supplied by American

family farms. Walk into its Potomac location and a large word collage conveys the restaurant’s values, such as: Oceans are Important, and Only Natural is Natural. The menu—which lists items including signature pot roast, seven-cheese macaroni, skillet cornbread and vegetable mushroom loaf—notes that the food is crafted and served sustainably. Drinks at the restaurant are served without a straw, or with a hay or paper straw as an alternative to a plastic straw.

The company uses recycled and refurbished materials in its restaurant construction, along with efficient lighting and smart heating and cooling systems, according to Erin Chalkley, Founding Farmers’ construction and development project manager. The restaurants compost food waste, donate grease to be recycled as biofuel and don’t serve bottled beer or canned soda. For its efforts, Founding Farmers locations have been recognized by the U.S. Green Building Council with various levels of LEED certifications for having minimal impact on the environment, and have been certified by the Green Restaurant Association.

What will be the company’s next green wave? Simons says it might involve the phasing out of plastic forks and a switch to other more eco-friendly takeout materials.

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A volunteer with Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland works on fixing up a home in Burtonsville.

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Whether it’s constructing a new home, renovating an old one, or weatherizing one that’s inefficient, protecting the environment is an element that’s high on the punch list of builders with Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland.

The Silver Spring-based nonprofit is one of about 1,300 independent Habitat affiliates in the United States that build affordable homes and rehab vacant, distressed or foreclosed houses, and then sell the properties to people who have a demonstrated need.

In 2011, Habitat Metro Maryland launched a repair and weatherization program, completing 115 projects to date at an average cost of about $10,000.

“We do a whole-house audit to look for critical safety issues and ways to reduce energy costs,” says Jeff Dee, development director for the local organization, which receives hundreds more applications than it can fulfill each year.

Through the program, Habitat volunteers gave Adele Biancarelli’s 1950s-era ranch home in Silver Spring a new roof, a ramp, energy-efficient appliances and attic insulation in 2017. The 66-year-old retired widow, who is disabled and lives on a fixed income, says the improvements have made her home more comfortable and reduced her energy bills. “It was like a dream,” Biancarelli says. “There is no way I’d have gotten the work done otherwise.”

The organization aims to reuse, recycle and salvage whatever it can from its projects. When a distressed house is gutted, as much of the material as possible is repurposed. Each year, the local Habitat organization diverts nearly 1,200 tons of waste away from county landfills, donating appliances, construction material and furniture to its two public resale outlets, called ReStore, in Rockville and Silver Spring, Dee says.

Sustainability has long been part of the nonprofit’s work, but there has been greater emphasis in recent years, says John Paukstis, president and CEO of the Maryland affiliate. “We not only want to provide a decent, affordable house, we want to make it energy efficient so there are not high energy bills once they move in,” he says. That means adding insulation, installing appliances that meet Energy Star standards, and using water conservation techniques in plumbing.

“We talk about sustainability efforts with everyone we meet—government, business sponsors and the faith community,” Paukstis says. “It’s always part of our message.”

COURTESY PHOTO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

CONSTRUCTION WITH CARE

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The cafe at the AstraZeneca and MedImmune campus includes bins for employees to put compost in.

PHOTO BY DARREN HIGGINS

COURTESY PHOTO HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

STRIVING FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS Outside AstraZeneca and MedImmune in Gaithersburg, there are solar panels and an automated irrigation system to help conserve water. Inside, the cafe’s composting bins spotlight the goal of having a zero-waste operation campuswide.

The biopharmaceutical company’s campus includes 10 buildings with 1.3 million square feet of space and roughly 3,500 employees. In 2010, MedImmune committed through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Plants program to reduce its energy consumption by 25 percent by 2020 and is on target to do so, having cut usage 17 percent by the end of 2017, according to the company. MedImmune was acquired

by AstraZeneca in 2007 to serve as its global biologics research and development arm.

In 2016, AstraZeneca and MedImmune installed a combined heat and power unit that turns natural gas into usable electricity and heat, avoiding energy losses that occur when a power plant generates, transmits and distributes power. The company recycles 70 percent of its waste, which

includes biohazardous waste that is processed along with laboratory plastics into reusable lumber. (A bench next to the company’s bocce court is made from those lab plastics.)

Employees from various departments volunteer to serve on the Green Team, which has been around for about a decade and works with the company’s Sustainability Team.

The teams have sponsored Earth Week activities, organized cleanups as part of Montgomery County’s Adopt A Road program, set up bin collections for area nonprofits and created a program for employees to take home heat-treated wood and plastic pallets for reuse.

Mike Dieterich, the site’s energy and sustainability manager, says AstraZeneca and MedImmune also aim to have a “ripple effect throughout the supply chain.” The organization informed the campus’ sushi provider that its decorative green plastic leaves could not be composted and weren’t wanted. They were gone in the next day’s delivery.

Christe Fraser, sustainability coordinator, says the Green Team initiatives generate great responses from the company’s leaders. “Our leadership prioritizes sustainability,” she says. “[They’re] looking forward to us bringing projects.”

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THE ENERGY SAVERS After the economic downturn in 2008, Brad and Debbie Dockser saw the real estate and private equity markets scrambling to reduce operating expenses. They noticed that one key item was often overlooked: energy costs.

The couple saw an opportunity to be a one-stop shop for property owners looking for solutions—not just products—to reduce their energy consumption. The Docksers wanted to leverage new technology and provide energy expertise to clients in an integrated, seamless way. In 2011, they created Green Generation Solutions, which analyzes and improves the ways a facility uses electricity, water, steam and gas.

Brad Dockser, a Bethesda native and Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School alum, met his wife, Debbie, while both were working in commercial real estate in Chicago. Now, she focuses on the marketing side of Green Generation Solutions while he works on strategic growth. Today, the company has 30 employees at its offices in Bethesda, London and Tokyo.

Revenue has grown about 100 percent a year since the business launched, and the firm recently doubled its office space in Bethesda to accommodate an expanding staff of mostly engineers and project managers, Brad says.

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Green Generation Solutions works with private businesses and public facilities, including local clients such as Sunrise Senior Living, The Carlyle Group and Woodmont Country Club.

A team typically reviews every system on-site, looking for ways improvements can be made, from lighting to smart control systems to heating and cooling equipment. The company tracks data to measure energy usage before and after the project to demonstrate the cost savings.

“At the heart is the belief [that] energy efficiency can drive value and cash flow,” Brad says.

Green Generation Solutions recently analyzed the 40-yearold Julia Bindeman Suburban Center at Washington Hebrew Congregation in Potomac and recommended changes to boost its energy efficiency. In 2016, the center added high-efficiency LED lighting, controls to automate lighting, and variable frequency drives to adjust cooling tower fans in response to demand, with financing from Pepco and the Maryland Energy Administration’s EmPOWER program covering about 55 percent of the $486,000 project. The result: a 20 percent savings in annual energy costs, about $45,000 each year. n Caralee Adams is a freelance writer in Bethesda.

PHOTO BY DARREN HIGGINS

Brad Dockser started Green Generation Solutions with his wife, Debbie, to boost energy efficiency in buildings.

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10/10/18 1:39 PM

Sylvia Rozines (pictured as a child on the opposite page) volunteers at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

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SURVIVOR

After decades of silence about her time in Poland’s Lodz ghetto during the Holocaust, a Montgomery County woman experienced the transformative power of speaking unspeakable truths

HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SYLVIA ROZINES

BY CHRISTINE KOUBEK | PHOTOS BY LISA HELFERT MOST MONDAYS, Sylvia Rozines sits at a gray desk in the brick and glass atrium of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in the District, a name tag clipped to her shirt. To her left, on a red brick wall, hangs a banner that reads: “This Museum is not an answer. It is a question. — Elie Wiesel. ” Museum patrons—a mix of families, school groups and international travelers—gather around Rozines to ask how she endured and survived the Holocaust.

Most of the 80 survivors who volunteer at the museum now were children when World War II began. “One lady, she was the best speaker, she used to sit here Wednesdays,” Rozines says, her accent a

mix of English, French and Yiddish. “But now she’s in a home. We are losing quite a few people.”

On this crowded day in late March, visitors jockey for one of the three seats on the other side of her desk. A few more form a row behind it and lean in to listen, while others mill about and catch snippets of the conversation.

“Where are you from?” Rozines asks visitors, and within a few minutes she’s met people from as far away as Australia.

A woman from California with dark hair in two braids makes her way to a seat, introduces herself and places a copy of Yellow Star on the desk. The historical fiction book, published in 2006, is based

on Rozines’ life—she and her family were among the estimated 270,000 people forced into Poland’s Lodz ghetto beginning in 1939. By the time the ghetto was liberated in 1945, roughly 800 survivors remained, according to the book. Of those, 12 were children. Rozines was one of them.

“May I sit and talk with you?” the woman asks.

Rozines takes the book and signs it, asking the woman to spell her name, Sharina. A mother and her middleschool-age daughter from Florida settle into the other two seats.

“You’re actually my highlight, you’re what I came for,” Sharina tells her. “I

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wanted to meet a survivor and hear your story—and try not to cry.”

Rozines opens a white folder and takes out pictures and a map of Poland with the Lodz ghetto marked on it. There’s one of Rozines and her sister, Dora, who is seven years older, lying on their stomachs in the grass on either side of their father.

Another shows a young Sylvia—who was known then as Syvia Perelmuter—in pigtail braids (not unlike Sharina’s) and white kneesocks, with a wide smile.

“The dress had polka dots. I only have pictures up to this age,” Rozines says, explaining that she entered the ghetto before her fifth birthday. “I am one of the youngest survivors.”

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The blue-eyed mother and daughter lean in closer to look at the photos. “How did you survive?” the daughter asks.

The answer to that question is something Rozines didn’t talk about for decades. “I happened to have a very courageous father,” she tells her. “If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be alive.”

THE PHOTOGRAPHS Rozines shares of her childhood are also part of a collage that hangs on a wall in her Montgomery County apartment, where she likes to spend time reading and keeping up with the news. A woman from the library at her synagogue often drops off books for her. She’s finished several about

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

HISTORICAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF SYLVIA ROZINES

Children living in the Lodz ghetto (top); Rozines (far right) with family members on a vacation before the war.

Holocaust survivors, and has been the subject of one, and at one point she felt she’d read enough. Then someone gave her a copy of Abe-vs-Adolf, a story about a teenager who survived five years as a prisoner in nine different concentration camps. “Once I started to read it, I couldn’t stop,” she says.

At 83, Rozines is enjoying what she calls her “American life.” She visits her son, her only child, and grandchildren in nearby Virginia. She has an affinity for La Madeleine’s tomato basil soup and likes going out for Chinese food because she can’t cook that at home. After years of hunger as a child, it took Rozines a while to adjust to eating some meals. “When I used to be fussy and I didn’t like certain foods it was easier to keep skinny,” she says with a laugh.

A widow for nearly two decades, she enjoys going to the theater and seeing movies with friends. “I like good stories,” says Rozines, who immigrated to the U.S. in 1957. “Years ago, my favorite movie was Casablanca. I watched it many, many times. If I was depressed, I’d watch that movie. I used to watch All in the Family reruns, too, when I needed something light.”

Once a week, a driver arrives at Rozines’ home to take her to the Holocaust Museum, where she’s been talking to visitors as a volunteer for about four years. She was never planning to share her story with strangers. She rarely spoke about the Holocaust. But a few years after she moved from Rochester, New York, to Montgomery County in 1999 to be closer to family, her son emailed his cousin, Jennifer Rozines Roy, an author, asking if she knew that his mother was one of only a dozen kids to survive the Lodz ghetto.

Roy, who’d written several children’s books, knew that her Aunt Sylvia had survived World War II and later lived in Paris, but had no idea about Rozines’ years in Poland. “I didn’t even know what the ghettos were,” she says. Roy started to worry about the history her family was losing. “A big part of this was, my dad’s family survived the Holocaust, too,” she says. Her father and Sylvia’s husband, David Rozines, were brothers.

Rozines, 83, holds a photo of herself as a young girl in pigtails, taken before World War II began.

Below: A map published in Yellow Star shows the city of Lodz—about 75 miles southwest of Warsaw, Poland—which was occupied by German troops in 1939. According to the book, about 800 survivors remained when the Lodz ghetto was liberated in 1945. Of those, 12 were children, and Rozines was one of them.

“We never talked about it, or really knew how to talk about it, and I thought, I can do something to help this.”

When Roy first called Rozines to ask about Lodz, her aunt said, “Oh, Jennifer, I was just a little girl.” More than 50 years had passed since her liberation from the ghetto. “I don’t remember anything—but I remember I had a doll…”

The next day, Rozines called her niece to say she’d had dreams and remembered something else—a girl in a wheelbarrow her father had helped save early on. She also remembered flour on her father’s hands. He’d been in charge of delivering 100-kilo bags to the ghetto’s bakery.

He would poke a small hole in them and take home bits of flour in an interior pocket the dressmakers had stitched in the ghetto residents’ clothing for the purpose of smuggling food. It’s a story Rozines often tells at the museum.

“They could only take a handful. Otherwise, when the Germans weighed it, they would know,” she explains. Her mother would use the flour however she could to cook, but sometimes they’d eat it raw. “Some people say, ‘I never could eat raw flour,’ but believe me, if you’re hungry, you eat raw flour.”

Roy says Rozines remembered small sensory details at first, which led her to ask more questions. The two talked nearly every night over the three months

that followed, Roy recording her aunt’s memories on index cards. “She was just remembering and remembering, and I wanted to get it all down,” Roy says.

“Then one day she said, ‘Jennifer, I don’t remember anything else.’ ” Initially, Roy thought she’d write a book for Rozines and both of their families. When she’d written about half the story, she gave it to her editor at Marshall Cavendish, an educational publisher, who then forwarded it to the company’s fiction editor. That editor encouraged Roy to write the book as historical fiction. “[Sylvia] conveyed it so that I could feel what she was like as a child,” Roy says. “Other things she told

me matter-of-factly, but the really scary parts, the lonely parts, it was as if she was telling me from her eyes as a child.

She would tell me, and then she would just stop. There was silence, because I think we both realized: Wow.” When Roy sent her aunt the manuscript, Rozines couldn’t bring herself to finish it at first. When she finally did, she called Roy. “Jennifer, you understand me,” Rozines told her. “And Hava and Itka, my little friends—now they are alive again.” To this day, Rozines says it’s hard for her to read Yellow Star. “[When] I talk, I don’t cry,” she says. “But once I see it in print…”

At the Holocaust Museum this summer, Rozines was speaking to students from Texas when a 15-year-old said to her peers, “Please, let me talk.”

“She started to cry right away and she said, ‘My grandfather designed the buildings in concentration camps,’ ” Rozines recalls. “She said, ‘My grandfather was always sorry. He lived in this country, but he was a very sad man.’ ” The teen asked Rozines if she could give her a hug, then apologized and said her grandfather regretted his whole life what he’d done.

Rozines wondered what the girl meant by “the buildings,” but didn’t want to pry and ask if he’d designed the gas chambers and ovens. “It’s not your fault what your grandfather did,” she told the teen.

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When Rozines volunteers at the museum, visitors often gather around her to ask how she endured and survived the Holocaust.

WHEN THE YOUNG GIRL from Florida asks Rozines how she survived the Holocaust, she starts at the beginning.

After Germany invaded Poland in 1939, the Germans took the old part of Lodz and made it a ghetto, she explains, surrounding the city’s industrial area with barbed wire and soldiers who guarded the entrances. One of the anti-Semitic laws that had been enacted required all Jewish people to wear the Star of David—a yellow star—on the front and back of their clothing.

“The schools were only open for a couple months, and then all the children, if they were 12, they worked in the factories,” Rozines says. Younger children like her stayed by themselves. “If you read my book,” Rozines says, “you’re going to see that I stayed with two little girls.” Those girls, Hava and Itka, lived in the same building, where six or seven people often shared a tiny apartment with a kitchen, she explains. The girls invented games and made dolls from scraps of sheets and pencils, and played with them until their 176

parents returned home from work.

Many of the things they’d brought into the ghetto, including clothing and young Sylvia’s toys, had been sold to the Polish people on the other side of the gates in exchange for food. “I remember a carriage with a doll that had a beautiful gown,” Rozines says. “But food was the most important thing to survive.”

When they ran out of their coal ration, they broke their furniture to cook with.

“It’s sad to say that we knew a father who was so hungry he took his children’s slice of bread. …The people who were not so well-off and used to hardship [fared better], but the rich people, they died very fast.”

A one-page handout the museum produced about Rozines’ life details how deportations from Lodz to the Chelmno killing center began in January 1942, and how the German soldiers went street to street rounding up children to put on the trains. Hava and Itka didn’t survive.

Parents were told that their children were going to a special camp where they

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

would learn and be safe. Sylvia’s father didn’t believe it. “They took children out by force from the mothers’ arms,” she says. “My father came up with places to hide me.”

The night the German soldiers reached the street where her family lived, her father ran with her to a cemetery, hoisted her over a tall brick wall and dug a hole in the ground. She remembers other children left sitting between gravestones. “I don’t remember if he used his hand or if he found something.

He covered me—all around me was sand and dirt, and I had to stay quiet,” she says. “He didn’t leave the cemetery.

He stayed around, I think as if he was cleaning up, in case the Germans came and asked what he was doing.” Rozines had to remain in the hole for a day and a night, worrying and waiting for her father to smuggle her back to their apartment. Her mother placed a white sheet in the window when it was safe to return.

“This was my nightmare,” she says, “that the Germans found me, and I see

the German taking the gun and I say to my father, ‘He’s killing me.’ The same dream for more than 10 years, until I came to America, and then for some reason it stopped.”

The mother from Florida’s eyes close for a few moments. Sharina takes a deep breath.

“HOW DID THE Polish people treat you after the war?” the mother from Florida asks.

“We were just standing on the street being happy [to be liberated],” Rozines says. Soviet soldiers liberated the people in her ghetto on Jan. 19, 1945, the day before her 10th birthday. Her mother, father and sister all survived. As some of the survivors climbed through holes cut in the barbed wire, Polish people flooded into the ghetto, taking whatever they could find. Sylvia taps one of the pictures on the table in front of her. “By the time we returned to our apartment [in the ghetto] the next day, everything [we’d left there] was gone,” she says.

“They took the frames. Our pictures were on the floor.”

When her family went back for their belongings, a blond Polish woman walked by them. “ ‘Look at how many are still left over, ’ she said. I was 10 years old and I had no schooling, and yet I understood exactly what she was saying,” says Rozines, who knew the woman was referring to Jewish prisoners.

Realizing that anti-Semitism was still widespread in Poland, Rozines’ father paid someone to show them the way from Poland to Germany, where they settled temporarily in a camp for displaced persons. She doesn’t know how her father found the right people to get them there. “We went to the woods, [and the vehicle we rode in] had gasoline tanks in the front and we were sitting in the back. It was a bumpy ride,” she says.

“When someone is filling up the car, I can still smell it.”

From the camp, her father arranged for someone to walk them to the French border. Rozines’ uncle—her mother’s

brother—was living in Paris. “They didn’t have such things as a passport,” she says.

“You just walked to the border, and once you arrived you got papers because you were an escapee.”

It was in Paris that Rozines finally was able to begin school, at age 12. She was placed with kids her own age, but had to attend first grade for an hour every day to learn to read French. “The children and teachers were very nice, but it was very hard to catch up,” she says.

When Rozines’ mother died of cancer 4½ years after their arrival in Paris, she was so devastated that she stopped going to school. “It was a big tragedy,” she says, “and I became very ill because I couldn’t understand how we could survive [the ghetto] and she dies at 45, just when things were going better.” Rozines assumed some of her mother’s duties, cooking and cleaning the home she shared with her father—her sister was already in America—and she read. She was taken by American author Pearl Buck’s tales about life in China. “I never had a childhood,” she says. “When I became sick when I lost my mother, I started to get books. I learned a lot from reading—my education was really from reading.”

Rozines immigrated to the United States at the age of 21 and settled near her sister, who had moved to Albany, New York, with her husband years earlier and opened a dry cleaning business. Two years later she married David, another Holocaust survivor from Poland she met on a blind date that was set up by someone who worked for her sister. They had one son, raising him in Rochester, New York, where Sylvia worked in the New York state school system for 24 years.

WHEN ROZINES SETTLED in Montgomery County, she joined a women’s group at her synagogue. They needed a speaker to talk with kids. She began there, being careful about telling the dramatic parts of her story. “Talking to the kids wasn’t bad, but talking to the ladies, that was hard,” she says. One time, while speaking to a group of women about her

experience, she read just one page of the speech she had prepared. “I thought I was going to die,” she says. “My heart was banging and I was sweating.”

Silence had been the key to Rozines’ survival, she says, from her early days in the ghetto, where she played quietly with Hava and Itka, to her final year in Lodz, when she and the other children spent days hidden and barely speaking in a cellar. Talking, let alone loudly, was a matter of life and death.

“This was my biggest thing here in America. If somebody told me something that upset me, I couldn’t fight back,” Rozines says. “Let’s say you have an argument with another worker, and I couldn’t speak up. I was 56 years old and I wouldn’t speak up. There was still that little girl who didn’t want to make waves.”

She was 58 when the Holocaust Museum opened in 1993. She attended the opening with her husband and son, and from there she began sharing memories with her immediate family—and slowly with others. After Yellow Star was published, Rozines participated in Portraits of Life, a program and exhibition about area Holocaust survivors that was created by the Paul Peck Humanities Institute at Montgomery College and launched in 2005. Survivors speak to middle and high school students, as well as other audiences, and Rozines participates a couple of times a year.

“They asked me to speak, and that’s how I began to speak to schools, and after that I had enough courage,” she says. “I applied to the [Holocaust] museum.”

Before she began, though, she made a promise to herself that if the nightmare returned—the dream in which a German soldier points a gun at her and she calls out to her father—she’d stop volunteering. Thankfully, it didn’t return, and her story has inspired many who’ve heard it in the years since. “I have giant bins filled with letters and pictures,” Roy says. “Some are from small towns, others inner cities, and they often say, ‘I relate to this even though I don’t know any Jewish people because I’m a minority, too.’ ”

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survivor An Irish Catholic girl from Chicago was so moved by Rozines’ story that she began organizing fundraisers when she was in middle school, raising hundreds of dollars for hunger-related charities.

She and her mother have kept in touch with Rozines, and when they came to town for a wedding, Rozines went to dinner with the family, including the girl’s grandfather. “He was a [U.S.] soldier during the war,” Rozines says.

A few years ago, a young girl named Vivian came to meet Rozines at one of the First Person events at the Holocaust Museum and told her she’d read Yellow Star 22 times. “She just stared at me.

She couldn’t talk,” Rozines says. “I knew what that was like, not to be able to say anything.”

Roy is struck by how her aunt has blossomed over the years. “It was profound. It’s still profound,” she says.

“I wondered: How did she keep that quiet [for so long]? Every time I see her speak I am amazed at how beautiful and composed she is. She could be a social activist because of how poised she is— and how humble.”

THIS PAST APRIL, 138 Holocaust survivors, along with supporters from around the country, gathered for the Holocaust Museum’s 25th anniversary celebration. Rozines was one of six survivors who had the honor of lighting candles in remembrance of those who lost their lives.

At the museum, a question in one of the information guides reads: “Now that you have seen, now that you know…what will you do?” Rozines thinks about that when she sees stories about the Syrian refugee crisis, rampant sexual abuse allegations, and the challenges facing refugees and

immigrants. She wonders today, as she did when she was a child: What makes some turn away as people are abused, while others take a risk to help?

When asked why she continues to volunteer, and to participate in programs like Portraits of Life and the First Person series, she says, “In my old age, I want to do something to give back. We have to give back and help one another.”

She shares her story in the hopes that younger generations will know about the Holocaust, she says, and so other people don’t have to suffer. In Sharina’s copy of Yellow Star, like so many others Rozines has signed, she writes: “To read and to remember.” ■ Christine Koubek’s work has appeared in The Washington Post Magazine, Poets & Writers, Arlington Magazine and more.

She’s on Twitter @ckstories.

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MISSION TO

MENTOR Philanthropist of the Year Linda Youngentob helps students in high school and college find a path to success

BY CARALEE ADAMS PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

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through the college application process.

“I told him he could do this,” Youngentob, 57, of Bethesda, recalls. “I try to emphasize to students that college is an opportunity to change the trajectory of their lives.”

Youngentob helped the teen complete applications and financial aid forms, and drove him to Goucher College in Towson for a visit after he was accepted.

“She gave so much of her time and went out of her way for me,” says Rodriguez, who is now a sophomore on a full scholarship at the private college, where he also gives tours to prospective students.

“It’s because of her I’m here today.”

Rodriguez is one of dozens of

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

students Youngentob has mentored over the past decade, most of whom are first-generation Americans and the first in their families to go to college. Along with advice, she provides students with duffel bags to pack for college visits, access to printers that they lack at home, introductions to her personal network and a promise to answer her cellphone at any hour. Still, she insists her efforts are nothing out of the ordinary.

“These kids deserved that. I didn’t see any other option,” says Youngentob, who was helping other students even as she was taking her own three daughters on college tours. “Why did my kids get to go, but theirs didn’t because they can’t

COURTESY PHOTOS

A

AT FIRST, BRANDON RODRIGUEZ didn’t think college was for him.

“I felt like I would be a fish in a shark tank—not knowing anything, not knowing anyone, not knowing what to do,” says the 19-year-old son of Salvadoran parents who didn’t finish high school.

All of that changed after Rodriguez met Linda Youngentob when he was a senior at Watkins Mill High School in Gaithersburg. She saw his potential while helping him navigate the college search process as a volunteer with CollegeTracks, a local nonprofit that guides county students at Watkins Mill, Quince Orchard, Wheaton and Bethesda-Chevy Chase high schools

Linda Youngentob with her husband, Bob, and daughters (from left) Lisa, Jamie and Casey, at Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals in June.

COURTESY PHOTOS

Above: Youngentob visited (from left) Zelalem Alabo, Solane Kumarra and Oswaldo Baires Mendez—students she helped through the CollegeTracks program—at the University of Rochester.

Right: Youngentob worked with Rokhyatou Sidibe (center) and Ossanfoumi Abalo on their college applications.

get a ride to the airport? I don’t think people really get that.”

In addition to her work with CollegeTracks, Youngentob is a faculty member of the Macklin Business Institute at Montgomery College, where she advocates for students as they transfer from the community college to fouryear institutions. She also serves on the boards of several education organizations, leveraging her business acumen and insights gained while helping students to inform her work.

Youngentob’s involvement as a CollegeTracks board member and her mentoring of both high school and college students make her a “triple threat,” says Kevin Beverly, who observed Youngentob’s knack for motivating students as he served with her on the CollegeTracks board for seven years until she left in 2017. “She’s not telling [students] what to do. She’s asking them what they want to do,” says Beverly, board president and the president and CEO of Social & Scientific Systems in Silver Spring. “She gets them engaged and then starts to have the conversation about what it takes.”

Along with her hands-on work, Youngentob is also a generous donor and an effective fundraiser with a particular skill for putting people and organizations

“I try to emphasize to students that college is an opportunity to change the trajectory of their lives,” Linda Youngentob says. together, according to those who know her. In honor of her volunteer work and financial contributions, Youngentob was named the 2018 Philanthropist of the Year by The Community Foundation in Montgomery County (CFMC).

“Linda sees patterns. When she encounters one student who is struggling, she steps in to help. When she realizes there are hundreds more encountering the same challenges, she knows systems need to change,” says Anna Hargrave, executive director of CFMC. “She is not afraid to use her connections to tear down barriers.”

YOUNGENTOB GREW UP IN Swampscott, Massachusetts, a small beach town north of Boston. Her father was president of nearby Salem Paper Co., which was started by his father. “That’s what instilled my love of business, because it

was so all-encompassing in our family,” Youngentob recalls. “Even when I was a child, all the magazines sitting around the house were business magazines.

Instead of reading Vogue or Glamour, I was reading Fortune and Forbes.”

Youngentob’s mother was president of her local chapter of Hadassah, a Jewish women’s service organization.

Her grandfather was president of his temple and the local chapter of Kiwanis International, a service club. Growing up, Youngentob volunteered at a local hospital and served as a mentor to a low-income girl in a nearby town through a program called Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Community service has been a part of every phase of her life. “It gives my life meaning,” Youngentob says. While attending Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, she was involved

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Youngentob with her dogs, Abby (left) and Fenway, at the C&O Canal, one of her favorite places

Community service has been a part of every phase of her life. “It gives my life meaning,” Youngentob says. with an adopt-a-grandparent program.

After graduating in 1983, she worked 12-plus hours per day as a research analyst in Boston, but still had the energy to answer calls on a parental stress hotline from 9 p.m. until midnight.

Youngentob says she’s learned that people too often think they need to do something big to make an impact, but small, personal connections can make a difference, such as providing a ride, conducting an internet search, or creating a spending budget for someone in need.

Gaining access to a college, a computer, a car and a credit card—resources that are often taken for granted—is a huge obstacle for many, she’s found.

“I am who I am today because of the ZIP code I was born in and I was born to two parents who went to college,” 184

Youngentob says. “I worked hard and I didn’t screw up. I’m not better than anyone else. I just got such a leg up of privilege.”

Youngentob, who says she’s “always been a problem solver,” graduated from Brown with a degree in systems analysis and design, a major she created by combining operations research, engineering, computer science, economics and accounting. After working for two years as an analyst, she earned an MBA at Harvard, where she met her husband, Bob, a fellow MBA student who’s now president and CEO of EYA, a residential real estate company based in Bethesda that he co-founded.

YOUNGENTOB AND HER HUSBAND moved to Montgomery County in 1987,

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and she continued to climb the corporate ladder in telecommunications and information technology consulting until a series of events led her to reorient her life more toward serving others.

In 1991, Youngentob chaired Mitzvah Day at Washington Hebrew Congregation in the District, organizing about 1,000 volunteers to work on projects ranging from cleaning up parks to making food for the homeless. She noted the impact the volunteer work had on recipients and the sense of community and purpose that the event fostered among those at her temple.

Two years later, Youngentob, then 32, was seriously injured in a bicycling accident, shattering her elbow and breaking her shoulder. The long recovery led to a realization that her job wasn’t “warming her heart.” She found she was more motivated to help others than to return to work. “It gave me the vision to get off the fast track,” says Youngentob, whose daughters were 10 months and 4 years old when she had the accident. “I had been on this high-achieving path all my life. I thought, ‘Do I really have to do this?’ ” At the time, Youngentob says there was tremendous pressure for female Harvard MBA grads to show the world that women could have it all. After the accident, she reassessed her situation.

“I figured, instead, I’d live my life in chunks. If I couldn’t have it all, I’d live each chunk of life and experience it to the fullest, knowing it wasn’t going to last forever,” Youngentob says.

Then, in 1999, a good friend of Youngentob’s, Randi Waxman, died suddenly at age 35. The high-powered attorneyturned-business law professor had told Youngentob about how rewarding it was to mentor low-income students. “I got a sign from God during her funeral that my job was to continue her work,” says Youngentob, who was moved by the diverse range of people Waxman had touched and who filled the Washington Hebrew Congregation for her funeral.

COURTESY PHOTO

mission to mentor

At that point, Bob Youngentob says, his wife began to realize she could use her skills to have a greater influence in the world of nonprofits. In doing so, she changed his outlook as well. “She has made me more sensitive to the needs of the community, being exposed to it through her eyes,” says Bob, who serves on the advisory board for The Universities at Shady Grove in Rockville and whose business has been recognized—locally by the Affordable Housing Conference of Montgomery County and nationally by the Urban Land Institute—for developing affordable housing in the county.

lives in Silver Spring and now attends the university.

When Medina ran into a snag with her financial aid package at Georgetown, Youngentob called the office of the university president and wrote a compelling letter to advocate on Medina’s behalf.

After Medina learned that she was getting a full scholarship offer, she called Youngentob, who took the call while celebrating her 31st wedding anniversary at Legal Sea Foods, a local outpost of the New England chain where she and Bob had their first date in Cambridge.

At Macklin, Youngentob is known as “Mama Bear,” says Hannah Weiser, an associate professor of business and management at the college. “She acts like a mom for all the students. Anytime

COURTESY PHOTO

TO REACH THE MOST students in need, Linda Youngentob decided in 2007 to work at Montgomery College

as an adjunct business professor. The following year she learned of the college’s Macklin Business Institute, an experiential learning program for business students where she now teaches an honors seminar one afternoon a week and guides students who are transferring to four-year institutions.

Lisbeth Medina is one of those students. She wanted to continue her education after community college, but didn’t know whether her family could afford it. Youngentob, who was her professor at Montgomery College, convinced Medina to consider Georgetown University and share her personal story in her application essay. “She helped me get out of my comfort zone and express myself,” says Medina, 20, who

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mission to mentor

“She helped me get out of my comfort zone and express myself,” says Lisbeth Medina, 20, who now attends Georgetown University. you talk to her, she ends a conversation asking: ‘Is there anything I can do to help?’ ” Weiser says.

There was the time when one of Youngentob’s students wasn’t connecting with her economics professor and was considering dropping the class, although doing so would have meant losing her scholarship. Youngentob took the student to Starbucks and role-played what to say to the professor so they could get on the right track. The student went on to earn a bachelor’s degree, and the two are still in touch, Youngentob says.

She recalls receiving a phone call in the middle of the night from a Latina student at a small college who told her about a fraternity’s plans to hold a party with an illegal immigrant and Border Patrol theme. The student was so upset that she wanted to leave school. Youngentob says she told the student that her job was to prove to other students that Latinas were intelligent and valued. “I was the only person she could call and vent” to, Youngentob says. “Being a safe place where these kids can talk about these challenges and obstacles they face, it’s really powerful work.”

Youngentob says she tries to be a voice for students who are struggling with procedures, communication or other issues on campus. At her first meeting as a board member of the Montgomery College Foundation, the discussion focused on real estate and investment 186

portfolios rather than students, she recalls. “That was unacceptable to me,” says Youngentob, who says she has worked to change that culture. She is co-chair of the foundation’s $20 million capital campaign, and she and her husband set up a fund that provides tuition assistance to Montgomery College students with developmental disabilities as well as small emergency grants for students who need help in order to remain enrolled in the college.

Youngentob considers herself a mentor “for life” and has kept in touch with many of her students—she has the phone numbers of about 40 listed on her cellphone, including that of 19-yearold Oswaldo Baires Mendez, who now attends the University of Rochester in upstate New York.

Mendez, a first-generation college student from Gaithersburg, contacted Youngentob when he realized that he needed to improve his study skills to handle college classes. Youngentob, who had kept in touch after mentoring him when he was in high school, provided tips on using note cards and a planner.

“She is always there. She’s been a big support for my dreams,” he says.

IN ADDITION TO HER mentoring work, Youngentob has hosted small fundraisers at her home—known as “friendraisers”—to generate support for CollegeTracks; Identity, a

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Gaithersburg-based organization serving the county’s Latino youths; and Compass, a Washington, D.C.-based organization where she volunteered for 13 years, providing business expertise to nonprofits. Youngentob joined Identity’s board last year, and the success of a friendraiser she held, where clients can tell their stories in a more intimate setting, led the organization to move away from holding its annual gala in favor of a smaller fundraising model, according to Identity Executive Director Diego Uriburu.

The Youngentobs have made financial contributions through their donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation and have given directly to a range of local, national and international organizations.

Youngentob has also contributed to Future Link, a Montgomery County organization that helps disadvantaged youths with career exploration. For several years, she taught a self-advocacy seminar for students to help them develop goals, prepare a résumé and pitch themselves to employers. “Linda was born to make a difference,” Future Link Executive Director Mindi Jacobson says. “She has a gift to really understand young people.”

Helping improve the lives of students through mentoring and providing financial support to organizations has brought Youngentob such joy that she wants to spread the word that helping others not only feels good, but is an issue of justice and economic development.

“It’s so hard to maneuver in this world and feel you are making a difference, but it’s possible,” she says. “Everybody has a heart. Everybody has some love to give to somebody.” n Caralee Adams is a freelance writer in Bethesda.

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

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It could be as small as volunteering for one day to sort canned goods, or as big as paying someone’s college tuition— here are concrete ways to get involved, whether it’s with your time or money.

All of the organizations below have been recommended by either The Community Foundation in Montgomery County or the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County. If an organization offers Student Service Learning SSL hours or internships, we noted that under volunteer opportunities. For more local nonprofits vetted by these organizations, visit BethesdaMagazine.com.

Give a Child a Chance ASIAN AMERICAN LEAD

(aalead.org) supports 525 low-income and underserved Asian Pacific-American youths—pre-K through college age—with academic development, decision-making for their academic futures, leadership skills and improved healthy concepts of self through after-school, summer and mentoring programs.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers the cost of an educational workshop for 50 youths.

• $1,000 supports one youth with one year of Asian-American LEAD programming.

• $10,000 supports 10 youths with one year of Asian-American LEAD programming.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Lead an educational or career workshop.

• Weekly/monthly: Volunteer at an after-school program.

• Internships

BUILDING EDUCATED LEADERS FOR LIFE (BELL) (experiencebell.

org/communities/maryland) exists to transform the academic achievements, self-confidence and life trajectories of children living in underresourced

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communities. To promote a culture of lifelong learning, BELL recognizes students in summer and after-school programs as “scholars.” At no cost to families, BELL delivers a summer learning solution for 2,000 scholars, grades 3-5, across Montgomery County Title I schools.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville (local headquarters) SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 sends a class of 20 scholars on a summer Friday field trip.

• $1,500 supports academic instruction and engaging enrichment activities for one scholar.

• $10,000 sponsors two teachers’ professional development, ensuring high-quality instruction for each classroom of 20 scholars.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Share the steps you took to achieve success at a “Career and College Pride Day.” • One day: Conduct on-site interviews with teachers, parents and scholars.

• Internships

IDENTITY (identity-youth.org) works with more than 3,000 Latino and other multicultural youths after school, in the community and on the playing fields.

The organization aims to help youths develop social and emotional skills, do

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better in school and get ready for work.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides healthy snacks for 30 low-income struggling readers in after-school programs.

• $1,000 turns spring break from a high-risk time to an enriching safe time for 10 teens.

• $10,000 helps 10 GED students earn their high school diploma.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Tutor struggling young readers.

• Occasional: Conduct mock job interviews with older youths.

• Internships

LIBERTY’S PROMISE (libertyspromise.org) engages firstgeneration and immigrant youths through a program that includes civic/ community engagement, career and college readiness, and internships with government agencies, small businesses or nonprofit organizations. Liberty’s Promise serves at least 400 Montgomery County youths annually.

HEADQUARTERED: Alexandria, Virginia SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers meals for 30 youths at six program sessions.

spotlight

Jason Sheer (left) and David Baum helped make improvements on Eula Knight’s home as volunteers with Rebuilding Together Montgomery County.

REBUILDING TOGETHER MONTGOMERY COUNTY

PHOTO BY LIZ LYNCH

Helping the most vulnerable residents remain at home WHEN THE TEAM FROM Rebuilding Together Montgomery County arrived at Eula Knight’s home in Montgomery Village, she had already gone through a period of homelessness and was afraid that the poor condition of her house and her limited finances would leave her without a home again.

“It was so depressing,” Knight says. “The house was so old and torn up.”

Knight, 97, who uses a walker and had a fractured rib at the time, was physically and financially unable to handle the repairs herself. That’s where Rebuilding Together Montgomery County came in. Her home was to be one of the more than 100 houses that the organization works on every year at no cost to low-income homeowners.

The Gaithersburg-based nonprofit connects homeowners with skilled professionals to handle extensive repairs. In Knight’s home, the workers did an energy audit to reduce her utility bills, replaced the heating and cooling systems, repaired the roof, and installed a new garbage disposal, fire extinguisher and smoke detectors.

For less-skilled labor, Rebuilding Together Montgomery County relies on nearly 1,000 volunteers annually. The national Rebuilding Together organization, which has local affiliates in

BY KELLY SANKOWSKI

39 states, hosts National Rebuilding Day every April, when its staff assigns projects to community volunteers who work directly with homeowners. This year, volunteers for Rebuilding Together Montgomery County worked on 13 homes. The group at Knight’s home painted, installed towel bars and helped with landscaping.

“Those people were wonderful,” Knight says. “They talked to me, showed me how to use my new thermostat. They showed me what I needed to know.”

Since many of the people helped by Rebuilding Together are elderly, one of the goals is to allow them to age in place by making their homes more accessible and functional.

Nelson Nguyen, a program manager for Rebuilding Together Montgomery County, is continuing to help Knight. He says his next goal is to find a way to install a chairlift on her stairs, since she essentially has to crawl up to her bed at night.

“The majority of Americans prefer to age in place,” Nguyen says. “They financially and emotionally have been invested in their home...so they don’t want to leave.”

Knight is thrilled to be staying in her home. “I was so relieved to know I was not going to be homeless again,” she says. “To me, [the people from Rebuilding Together] were all like God’s angels. I was so very grateful to them for all of their kindness.”

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• $1,000 pays for the Metro fares for

120 youths to tour Washington, D.C., sites.

• $10,000 supports 12 teens in internships during the summer.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Work with a student to create a résumé and cover letter.

• One afternoon: Address the afterschool program on topics such as college and careers or financial literacy.

• Internships

MAKING A NEW UNITED PEOPLE (MANUP) (manupnow.org) develops

youths into resilient and healthy leaders by providing support, resources and training. It provides in-school and community-based mentoring programs focused on building job readiness and decision-making skills. MANUP supports more than 400 Montgomery County youths annually.

HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park SERVES: Montgomery County and Washington, D.C. WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers one month of materials for MANUP’s teen drop-in center.

• $1,000 provides a month of programing targeted at academically at-risk kids.

• $10,000 covers programming at a single school for a year.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Serve as a guest speaker to share your story and advice with a group of youths.

• Ongoing: Become a mentor to an aspiring leader.

• Internships

THE TREE HOUSE CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND (treehousemd.org) provides an array of free services to child and adolescent victims of abuse and neglect and their nonoffending family members. Services include mental health therapy, medical evaluations, forensic interviews and 190

victim advocacy, all provided in a safe, child-focused, central location.

HEADQUARTERED: Derwood SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides five hours of trauma therapy for a child.

• $1,000 provides a full medical exam and psychological evaluation for a child.

• $5,000 provides one family with a full course of medical, therapeutic and victim assistance services.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Ongoing: Help with the Tree House Tour de Cookie bike ride.

• Ongoing: Organize snack or supply drives.

• Internships

URBAN ALLIANCE (theurbanalliance.org) matches underserved high school seniors with paid internships, job skills training, one-on-one mentoring and ongoing post-program support to expand their idea of what is possible for their future.

Urban Alliance offers programs in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Northern Virginia and Montgomery County, where it serves 30 youths annually.

HEADQUARTERED: Washington, D.C. SERVES: Silver Spring and Burtonsville WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $25 provides an intern’s wages for one day of work.

• $1,000 covers an intern’s training and college counseling.

• $12,500 sponsors an internship for a year.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help high school seniors navigate the college application process during “College Signing Day.” • Ongoing: Volunteer to mentor a high school intern.

• Internships

YMCA YOUTH AND FAMILY SERVICES (yfs.ymca.org) helps

at-risk youths and vulnerable families

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become safe, secure and connected to their community. The Y’s mentoring, counseling and case management programs provide critical preventative and early intervention strategies that stabilize families during uncertain times.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides five hours of trauma therapy for a child.

• $1,000 pays for the expenses related to a cultural trip.

• $5,000 sends six kids to summer camp for a week.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Chaperone a cultural trip or family activity.

• Ongoing: Mentor or tutor a young person.

Help Build Communities IMPACT SILVER SPRING

(impactsilverspring.org) aims to achieve a racially and economically equitable Montgomery County through building and sustaining community-based, equity-focused spaces where people and organizations can take collaborative action.

IMPACT believes that achieving true equity requires transformation at the personal/interpersonal, neighborhood and systems levels.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 seeds a resident-led community improvement project.

• $1,000 pays for four scholarships for low-income residents to participate in the Network Weaver Learning Program.

• $10,000 sponsors a symposium on cooperative development.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • As needed: Assist as a social media strategist.

• As needed: Help as an English/Spanish interpreter.

• Internships

spotlight

Rubia Ferreira and her daughter, Bianca, at BELL’s summer program at Georgian Forest Elementary School in Silver Spring

PHOTO BY LIZ LYNCH

BUILDING EDUCATED LEADERS FOR LIFE (BELL) Helping students avoid the “summer slide”

BY CARALEE ADAMS

DURING A SUMMER PROGRAM run by the nonprofit Building Educated Leaders for Life (BELL) at Georgian Forest Elementary School in Silver Spring, there are about as many kids in class with student Bianca Ferreira as during the school year. But there are two instructors instead of one. That means more opportunities to ask questions—and ask she does.

The 10-year-old moved to Silver Spring from Brazil about three years ago, and her English is so good that her summer teachers didn’t realize right away that Portuguese was Bianca’s first language. Some basic words still stumped her, but the smaller student-teacher ratio in the BELL program enabled her to get the clarification she needed to be better prepared for fifth grade.

“I’m impressed with how [Bianca’s] focused and always asking questions. She’s driven,” says teaching assistant Yvette Bobb of Burtonsville.

Bianca was one of about 200 students in the five-week summer program at Georgian Forest, one of 11 operated by BELL in Montgomery County, serving about 1,900 students heading into grades 3-5. BELL, whose local headquarters are in Rockville, is a national organization that also operates after-school programs.

The aim of the full-day summer program is to prevent the

“summer slide,” a tendency for students to lose academic gains achieved during the previous school year. Students are from Title I schools and/or homeless, with priority given to those who test in the lowest quarter of their class.

“It’s courageous to be here in the summer to learn and put your all into it, and that’s what we are asking our scholars to do every day,” says Christine Miller, program manager at Georgian Forest.

In the morning, students spend 90 minutes on math and 90 minutes on reading and language arts. Instructors, who are mostly teachers and teaching assistants from Montgomery County Public Schools, also lead activities geared toward affirming the students and building community—talking about feelings, goals and aspirations. In the afternoon, students participate in two enrichment activities.

Bianca says she liked “College Day,” during which kids were encouraged to think about possible schools and careers. Her mother, Rubia, who went to college in Brazil to become a teacher but didn’t finish, says she reminds Bianca every day of the importance of attending college. She says the summer program helped her daughter become a stronger student. “I could see she learned so much and she made new friends,” Rubia says. “BELL helped her grow.”

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TWINS. TWO MORE REASONS WHY WE SHOULD SUPPORT JOEY, A HERO WOUNDED IN SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY. Will you help thank those who have answered the call?

THEY GAVE 100% so WE GIVE 100%

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Help Someone Go to College ACHIEVING COLLEGIATE EXCELLENCE AND SUCCESS (ACES) – MONTGOMERY COLLEGE FOUNDATION

(acesmontgomery.org) is a collaboration among Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery College and The Universities at Shady Grove to increase college enrollment and completion among students who are traditionally underrepresented in higher education. The program provides academic coaching, interventions and support to about 2,375 students enrolled in the three institutions.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 helps a student purchase textbooks for one semester.

• $1,000 provides emergency assistance for a student facing a financial crisis.

• $10,000 pays for scholarships for up to 10 students.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Share your own career story as a guest speaker.

• Ongoing: Take on an intern at your company.

• Internships

CAREER EXPERIENCE OPPORTUNITIES (CEO) – THE UNIVERSITIES AT SHADY GROVE (shadygrove.

umd.edu/student-services/ career-and-internship-center/careerexperience-opportunities) provides low-income and underrepresented students with experiential learning and career exploration opportunities to build competencies and skills necessary for career success. Through CEO, employers can help shape student experiences and equip students to meet their specific industry requirements.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville

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SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers a job shadowing/career exploration day for five students.

• $1,000 covers a career skills training session for 20 students.

• $10,000 covers scholarships for 10 students.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Host CEO students for a tour of your company.

• Ongoing: Sponsor an internship and/ or mentor a student.

• Internships

COLLEGETRACKS (collegetracks.

org) changes lives by helping lowincome, first-generation-to-college students navigate the college application and financial aid process and then enroll, persist and graduate from college or technical school. The 1,500 students served annually are often from lowincome backgrounds and/or the first in their families to apply to college.

HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda SERVES: Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Quince Orchard, Watkins Mill and Wheaton high schools WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 enables three recent high school graduates to attend college success skills workshops.

• $1,000 provides one year of college admissions advising for a high school senior.

• $10,000 provides college success coaching for seven college scholars.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Help students with the admissions and financial aid process (must be a college graduate).

• Weekly: Help students to prepare for the ACT test.

FUTURE LINK (futurelinkmd.org)

seeks to close the social justice gap by empowering first-generation-to-college, low-income young adults through career exploration programs, academic advising, scholarships, internships and

mentoring. Its individualized, intensive program emphasizes persistence in postsecondary education; teaches workplace, self-advocacy and personal decision-making skills; and helps young adults develop a concrete plan for a meaningful career pathway to enable self-sufficiency.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides textbooks to a Future Link student.

• $1,000 provides career planners for three Future Link seminar classes.

• $10,000 funds a 15-week career development seminar for 15 students.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Provide informational interviews to students interested in your career field.

• Short-term: Offer a cost-shared internship or job-shadowing opportunity.

• Internships

PASSION FOR LEARNING (P4L)

(passionforlearning.org) addresses educational opportunity gaps faced by middle school students from lowincome families. P4L provides enriching information technology and college awareness-preparation programs for youths who are underestimated and marginalized. Coached by dedicated teachers and tech professionals, P4L’s students prepare a path for success in high school, college and careers.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 pays for a field trip to a tech business or college.

• $1,000 enables four students to attend college readiness camp.

• $10,000 pays for a year of an afterschool tech program at one school.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Information technology professionals speak to students.

• Internships

FIGHT HUNGER & FEED HOPE Hope this holiday season Support With Special Needs ThisThose Holiday Season RED WIGGLER COMMUNITY FARM (redwiggler.org) is an organic

farm where people with and without developmental disabilities come together to work, learn and grow healthy food. Annually, more than 1,500 volunteers and workers harvest more than 34,000 pounds of organic vegetables. Produce is distributed to the public, with 30 percent going to low-income people in the county.

HEADQUARTERED: Germantown SERVES: Primarily Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides one delivery of fresh vegetables to 10 group homes for adults with disabilities.

• $1,000 provides ergonomic hand tools for growers and volunteers.

• $10,000 supports winter greenhouse educational programming and job opportunities.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day or weekly: On-farm education and volunteer opportunities (must be at least 12 years old).

• Internships

SUNFLOWER BAKERY (sunflower

bakery.org) prepares young adults with learning differences for employment through the pastry arts and Café Sunflower employment training programs.

The pastry program includes 26 weeks of professional instruction, skills training and a paid in-house internship, and serves 20 to 22 students annually.

Café Sunflower offers three months of formal instruction to eight young adults and four to six interns annually, and the opportunity to continue on for six months of paid employment and training.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers tools for one student to practice skills.

Change Someone’s Life.

Change Your Life.

MentorPrize aims to help close the mentorship gap in the D.C. area so that children and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds get the emotional, academic and/or professional support everyone deserves. We recruit mentors and place them with local mentoring programs that serve a wide range of constituents -- from homeless kids to teenage parents to first generation college students.

Let MentorPrize find a mentoring opportunity that is meaningful to you.

www.mentorprize.org info@mentorprize.org (240) 772-1101

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• $1,000 buys instructional ingredi-

ents/supplies for one pastry arts student.

• $10,000 underwrites a half scholarship for one low-income pastry arts student.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Introduce Sunflower at career/high school fairs.

• Weekly: Assist employees at Café Sunflower.

Feed the Hungry CROSSROADS COMMUNITY FOOD NETWORK (crossroadscom

munityfoodnetwork.org) educates community members about healthy food and strives to create universal access to healthy food. Programs include microenterprise development, healthy eating education and farmers’ market nutrition incentives at the popular Crossroads Farmers Market, which serves 3,000 people annually.

HEADQUARTERED: Takoma Park SERVES: Takoma/Langley Park WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $500 covers ingredients for a series of Healthy Eating sessions for local fifth-graders.

• $1,000 provides one session of business training for 15 low-income food entrepreneurs.

• $5,000 doubles SNAP (food stamp) farmers market purchases for seven eligible families for the entire market season.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Give cooking demonstrations at local schools.

• Weekly: Volunteer at the market to help older customers shop for produce.

• Internships

MANNA FOOD CENTER

(mannafood.org) works to end hunger every day through healthy food distribution, nutrition education and advocacy to reduce poverty 194

across Montgomery County. Last year, Manna assisted 32,000 individuals and families, including children, seniors, veterans and the working poor. Manna partners with community groups and businesses to address immediate needs and create sustainable healthy communities for all.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides weekend bags for 50 elementary school children.

• $1,000 provides 40 families with fresh, frozen and shelf-stable food for one month.

• $10,000 supports weekend bags at one elementary school for one year.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Adults (17 and older) can prepare food boxes and sort canned goods.

• One day: Host a food and funds drive.

• Internships

NOURISH NOW (nourishnow.org) works to eliminate two major social problems: food waste and hunger. Staff and volunteers recover food from local grocery stores, farms and other sources, and donate nutritious food to more than 700 families monthly. With its help, 90-plus nonprofit partner organizations saved more than $200,000 worth of food last year. Since 2011, Nourish Now has recovered and donated more than 1 million pounds of food.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides for the recovery of 5,000 meals from local caterers.

• $1,000 provides 80 families with a home-style Thanksgiving dinner.

• $7,500 provides more than 4,000 meals to be distributed free at summer camps.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Process produce.

• One day: Repackage recovered meals.

• Internships

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Improve Someone’s Health EVERYMIND (every-mind.org) strengthens communities and empowers individuals to reach optimal mental wellness. Since 1957, EveryMind has been a mental health resource, providing direct services, community education and advocacy. The organization works to bring healing, hope and wholeness to children, youths, adults, veterans and families.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $50 provides one hour of supportive listening, information and resources, and crisis intervention services for adults, children and youths via phone, text and chat.

• $1,000 supports 20 therapy sessions for a child who has experienced trauma.

• $5,000 provides 100 hours of supportive listening, information and resources, and crisis intervention services for adults, children and youths via text and chat.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Provide homework help for a low-income elementary or middle school student.

• Weekly: Volunteer as a call specialist for the 24/7 hotline.

• Internships MARY’S CENTER (maryscenter.

org) helps individuals reach their full potential by providing health, dental, behavioral health, workforce development and social services. Mary’s Center meets the needs of nearly 50,000 individuals annually—regardless of their ability to pay.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring and Washington, D.C. SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $150 covers the cost of a medical visit for an uninsured patient.

• $1,000 provides a student suffering

spotlight

Dr. Jennifer Pippins (left), a volunteer with MobileMed, speaks with Patience Mbassa at a MobileMed clinic in Silver Spring.

MOBILEMED

PHOTO BY LIZ LYNCH

Providing health care to those in need

BY CARALEE ADAMS

PATIENCE MBASSA, WHO HAS high blood pressure and diabetes, comes to the MobileMed clinic in Silver Spring every three months for a checkup. The 65-year-old, who works as a secretary and doesn’t have health insurance, relies on the clinic for free care, medications and supplies to track her blood glucose level.

Mbassa says the medical staff takes time to ask questions and get to know her. When she was dismissive of a lump she’d had in her breast for years, they urged her to take action. Four years ago she had the lump surgically removed and the news was good: no cancer. “[The people at MobileMed] showed me that they loved me and that they were concerned about me,” says Mbassa, a Silver Spring resident who now gets regular mammograms.

MobileMed, which was founded 50 years ago, is based in Bethesda. Volunteer physicians at the nonprofit’s eight clinics—three fixed sites, three mobile van sites and two homeless shelters, all in Montgomery County—see adult patients for a range of services, from sick visits to physical exams to behavioral health counseling.

Anyone with a demonstrated financial need is treated regardless of their ability to pay, immigration status or health insurance situation. English is not the first language for about

half the patients, according to Barry Barth, MobileMed’s director of development and outreach. Many of the 45 fulland part-time staff members are multilingual, and translators are used sometimes.

The clinics rely on doctors such as Jennifer Pippins of Takoma Park, an internal medicine physician who works for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and volunteers twice a month. “It’s not infrequent that I’m the first physician to lay hands on and take care of a patient who hasn’t had any medical care for a good portion of their adult lives,” she says.

“Other patients have moved around a lot…there is often a sense of relief to have someone have a fresh look and start from the beginning.”

In the fiscal year which ended on June 30, 2017, MobileMed’s 51 clinical volunteers provided care to about 4,400 patients (the vast majority were Montgomery County residents) through 16,000 medical visits—about a 10 percent increase in encounters over the previous year.

“Being here grounds me and reminds me that while we’ve made many advances as a medical community, those advances are not accessible to everyone,” Pippins says. “As health care providers and involved citizens, part of our job has to be to bridge that gap.”

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from trauma or depression with school-based counseling for a year.

• $5,000 provides a child with special needs with early intervention services.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Collect and distribute food and toys for the annual holiday drives.

• Weekly: Read to children and help them feel comfortable before their doctor’s visit.

• Internships

MERCY HEALTH CLINIC (mercy healthclinic.org) is a community-based health clinic that provides free medical care, health education and medications to uninsured, low-income adult residents of the county. The clinic’s medical services are delivered by volunteer physicians and a small staff of health professionals.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers the cost of a mammogram and follow-up support for five patients.

• $1,000 provides ongoing coordinated treatment, nutrition education and lifestyle education support for 100 patients who are managing diabetes, obesity and/or hypertension.

• $10,000 provides free medications and primary care for 100 patients for a year.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Ongoing: Volunteer to provide administrative support for front desk check-ins and patient eligibility screening.

• Ongoing: Physicians licensed in Maryland can volunteer to see patients.

• Internships MOBILE MEDICAL CARE (MOBILEMED) (mobilemedicalcare.

org) provides primary health care for more than 4,000 low-income, uninsured and underinsured Montgomery 196

County residents. MobileMed’s commitment to accessibility is achieved through multiple clinics and mobile van locations throughout the county, extensive outreach in collaboration with faith-based and ethnic organizations, and a policy of never turning anyone away for inability to pay. Staff and volunteer clinicians deliver linguistically and culturally sensitive care, integrated behavioral health and wraparound support.

HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides patient education for 25 individuals with chronic conditions.

• $1,000 supports one week of mobile van operations.

• $10,000 supports medical visits for 200 patients.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly or monthly: Serve as a volunteer in a clinic or at headquarters.

Put a Roof Over Someone’s Head THE DWELLING PLACE (tdp-inc.

org) provides housing and case management to 29 formerly homeless families.

Programs are designed to give families the time, support and education to move from homelessness to long-term self-sufficiency.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers the cost of new backpacks and school supplies for five children.

• $1,000 pays for tuition, books, supplies and fees for completing a Certified Nursing Assistant certification.

• $10,000 pays for six months of case management support.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Ongoing: Provide office/receptionist support.

• Internships

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HEARTS AND HOMES FOR YOUTH (heartsandhomes.org)

supports youths who have experienced abuse, neglect, mental health challenges, homelessness and other trauma.

In Montgomery County, Hearts and Homes operates four residential programs, a therapeutic foster program and a mother-baby program, serving a total of more than 75 youths a night. The organization strives to build brighter futures for the youths, families and community.

HEADQUARTERED: Burtonsville SERVES: Maryland WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers the cost of new backpacks and school supplies for five youths.

• $1,000 covers a month of day care for a baby.

• $10,000 pays six months of therapeutic mental health services.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Paint a group home.

• Ongoing: Mentor a young person.

• Internships

RAINBOW PLACE (rainbowplace. org) is an emergency winter shelter for women that’s open from November through March. Besides shelter, residents receive counseling, on-site case management, three meals daily, and limited clothing, toiletries, storage space and bus tokens. Shower and laundry facilities are available.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides bus tokens needed to travel to medical appointments, job interviews or work sites.

• $1,000 covers the cost of a onemonth stay.

• $10,000 provides an on-site therapist two nights a week.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day or ongoing: Prepare lunch or dinner.

• Internships

STEPPING STONES SHELTER

(steppingstonesshelter.org) offers shelter and support services to about 88 families with children each year. Its programs help families find longerterm housing solutions and create a stable home environment.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides 10 cartons of diapers for homeless families.

• $1,000 provides grocery store gift cards for 20 families as they move out of the shelter and into permanent housing.

• $10,000 buys a year of one-on-one money management counseling and monthly employment workshops for 30 families.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Ongoing: Help with child care.

• Ongoing: Cook and serve dinner for residents.

• Internships

Help Seniors REBUILDING TOGETHER MONTGOMERY COUNTY

(rebuildingtogethermc.org) provides free home repairs, accessibility modifications and energy efficiency improvements for vulnerable seniors, individuals with disabilities, veterans and low-income families with children to enable them to remain in their homes.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides handrails and grab bars so a frail senior can age in place.

• $1,000 secures a working stove and new hot water heater for a single veteran.

• $10,000 replaces a leaking roof, remediates damage caused by mold and prevents structural hazards that threatened to make a home unlivable.

SSL

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

• One day: Join a volunteer team •

providing home repairs to a family in need.

Internships

SILVER SPRING VILLAGE

(silverspringvillage.org) offers services and programs to help people remain in their own homes and be engaged in the community as they age. Trained and vetted volunteers offer village members transportation, friendly visits and phone calls, home repairs, help with chores and errands, de-cluttering, medical note-taking and more—plus a full calendar of social and educational activities.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Silver Spring WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides background checks for 10 volunteers.

• $1,000 provides village services and programs for two low-income seniors.

• $10,000 supports professional staff managing volunteers.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Provide rides for village members to appointments.

• Long-term: Visit village members at their homes.

Provide Legal Services AYUDA (ayuda.com) provides legal, social and language services to help vulnerable immigrants in the region access justice and transform their lives. Since 1973, it has served more than 100,000 low-income immigrants throughout the region. Ayuda’s professionals help immigrants from anywhere in the world navigate the immigration and justice systems and access the social safety net. Ayuda serves more than 2,000 clients in the region annually, with 145 living in Montgomery County.

HEADQUARTERED: Washington, D.C.

SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $200 covers legal fees for the immigration case of an immigrant child to safely remain in the United States.

• $1,000 provides five hours of paid interpretation services.

• $5,000 covers legal or therapeutic services for three clients.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One time: Volunteer to usher or photograph an annual event like the welcome breakfast or gala.

• Ongoing: Fill in for Ayuda’s intake specialists.

• Internships

Offer Those in Need a Safety Net COMMUNITY MINISTRIES OF ROCKVILLE (CMR) (cmrocks.org)

serves the most vulnerable Montgomery County residents by providing a health clinic for the low-income uninsured and Medicaid underinsured; assistance for seniors aging in place; financial assistance to stop eviction and utility termination; English language and citizenship classes; and supportive housing for the homeless working toward self-sufficiency.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Rockville WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides a month of home care services for a senior client of CMR’s Elderly Ministries Program.

• $1,000 supports 12 at-risk middle/ high school students in achieving college acceptance.

• $10,000 covers the costs of 100 patient visits at the Kaseman Health Clinic.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Do yard work at Jefferson House or Rockland House.

• Weekly: Be an intake coordinator for the Rockville Emergency Assistance Program.

• Internships

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FAMILY SERVICES (fs-inc.org)

provides prevention and early-intervention services to more than 17,000 low-income children, individuals and families, including emergency assistance, mental health and substance abuse services, early-childhood programs, domestic violence services and community outreach.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery and Prince George’s counties WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $300 provides a month of developmentally appropriate activities for socially isolated toddlers.

• $1,000 provides a full year of case management for a student with social service and/or behavioral health needs.

• $10,000 furnishes a playroom at the Betty Ann Krahnke domestic violence shelter.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly or monthly: Prep food and/ or serve lunch in Family Services’ commercial kitchen.

• One time: Volunteer at a special event.

• Internships

INTERFAITH WORKS (iworksmc.

org) helps more than 16,000 residents each year, equipping homeless and low-income neighbors to lift themselves from poverty through integrated prevention, stabilization and empowerment programs. Interfaith Works’ programs change lives with the help of 5,500 volunteers and 165 congregations.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides four students with backpacks filled with quality school supplies.

• $1,000 supports job counseling and workforce readiness classes.

• $10,000 provides housing for a homeless family for seven months,

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together with professional case management and supportive services to help them toward independence.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Donate or sort clothing and home goods to provide to neighbors in need.

• Ongoing: Prepare and/or provide meals for women experiencing homelessness.

• Internships

Help Someone Find a Job CAREERCATCHERS (careercatch ers.org) provides personalized career counseling services for 500 clients annually. Of those seen intensively in 2017, 76 percent found new or better jobs with an annualized aggregate value of more than $4 million; 77 percent participated in training; and 70 percent received post-job placement support.

CareerCatchers’ customized approach helps domestic violence victims, immigrants, disadvantaged youths and disabled, low-income and homeless clients on the path to employment that pays a living wage.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides a résumé, cover letter and skills assessment.

• $1,000 covers intensive support, from intake through job retention.

• $10,000 builds capacity.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help complete online job applications, conduct mock interviews or lead a workshop.

• Weekly: Assist with the Job Club or act as a workplace mentor.

CASA (wearecasa.org) works to

improve the quality of life in working class and immigrant communities.

For its 90,000-plus members, CASA provides job placement, vocational training, citizenship assistance, family social services and other critical legal,

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

education and health services. It operates four centers in Montgomery County.

HEADQUARTERED: Hyattsville SERVES: Maryland, Northern Virginia and south central Pennsylvania WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides assistance for three legal permanent residents to become U.S. Citizens.

• $1,000 provides 12 weeks of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) instruction to eight lowincome immigrants.

• $5,000 supports teen community leadership training for 30 immigrant adolescents.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Serve as a mentor to immigrant high school students.

• Monthly: Assist with a résumé workshop.

• Internships

LITERACY COUNCIL OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY (literacycouncilmcmd.org) is an adult education organization that provides basic literacy and English as a Second Language (ESL) tutoring, ESL classes, pre-GED preparation for adults, conversation classes for English learners and more. Annually, it serves about 1,500 adult learners and relies heavily on a robust volunteer corps to provide individualized mentorship for adults struggling with literacy to improve their employment prospects, educational opportunities and everyday lives.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers the annual cost of tutoring for two adult learners.

• $1,000 provides books and materials for 15 adult learners.

• $10,000 pays the classroom rental fees for 12 10-week ESL class sessions.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Tutor an adult learner for two

•

hours weekly.

Internships

Support the Arts and Humanities THE ADVENT PROJECT

(theadventproject.net) is a nonreligious professional classical music ensemble specializing in a choral-orchestral repertoire. Most concerts are free, with a suggested donation of $20. Programs include “Conversation Concerts,” introducing the audience to the music that is about to be performed with live demonstrations by the chorus, soloists and orchestra.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $75 covers the cost of sheet music for the chorus.

• $250 covers the cost of printed programs for one concert.

• $500 covers the cost of creating supertitles at a “Conversation Concert.”

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with special events needs at concerts.

• Weekly: Provide support with data entry and administrative tasks.

• Internships

ARTS FOR THE AGING (AFTA)

(aftaarts.org) is a nationally recognized organization engaging older adults and their care partners in health improvement and life enhancement through regular participation in the arts. Led by a trained faculty of professional artists, AFTA’s therapeutic interventions focus especially on those experiencing aging-related physical and cognitive impairments.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 partially underwrites teachingartist fees for a multidisciplinary program.

• $1,000 supports the creation of an

arts program customized for older adults in a community setting.

• $10,000 supports multiple artsbased programs for older adults who are socially isolated and might not otherwise have access to high-quality arts experiences.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day/weekly: Assist with office administration, events and programs.

• Internships

ARTS ON THE BLOCK (artsonthe block.com) offers creative youths the opportunity to learn firsthand about art, design and business as apprentice artists on real-world projects.

Through the organization’s programs, youths learn the value of self-expression, the practice of leadership and teamwork, and the benefits of creative skills for their careers and in their communities.

HEADQUARTERED: Kensington SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 supports a field trip to visit D.C. art museums for 25 youths.

• $500 trains 20 apprentice artists to write a dynamite résumé and “ace” an interview.

• $1,000 sponsors an apprentice for one year in the studio workshop.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help out in the studio.

• Weekly: Support office staff with filing and data entry.

• Internships CARPE DIEM ARTS

(carpediemarts.org) presents multigenerational and multicultural community events and arts outreach activities, serving diverse audiences of more than 6,000 each year. Programs feature the visual, literary and performing arts, and include summer camps, after-school programs, family concerts, ukulele classes, songwriting workshops and community dances.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $50 purchases a ukulele and tuner for a low-income student or senior.

• $150 covers an honorarium for a guest artist at a Community Sing event.

• $500 provides a full scholarship for a student in Carpe Diem Arts’ French or Spanish immersion arts camp.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with special events.

• Weekly: Help with administrative tasks.

• Internships

CREATE ARTS CENTER

(createartscenter.org) offers individual and group art therapy for adults and children, smARTkids programs for at-risk youths, art education, afterschool classes, no-school day camps and summer camps. The nonprofit also hosts community events.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $75 sends a child to no-school day camp.

• $250 covers two, one-on-one art therapy sessions for an individual with emotional or cognitive needs.

• $500 covers enrollment in the smARTkids program to positively impact the learning ability of an atrisk youth.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with community events and art shows.

• Weekly: Help with art education classes.

• Internships

DOCS IN PROGRESS

(docsinprogress.org) builds community through documentary film screenings, filmmaking classes and camps for adult and youth documentary filmmakers. This includes the Community Stories Festival, which showcases

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short documentaries about people and places from local neighborhoods and communities.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Metro region and beyond WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $100 helps make it possible to keep Community Stories Festival screenings free and open to the public.

• $250 helps underwrite stipends for summer interns to mentor youths in documentary production.

• $500 helps underwrite screening and education programs for low-income residents of Alexander House in downtown Silver Spring.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with photography, videography or the check-in table at special screening events.

• Weekly: Provide support with data entry and marketing.

• Internships

THE GLEN ECHO PARK PARTNERSHIP FOR ARTS AND CULTURE (glenechopark.org) man-

ages a lively visual and performing arts site. More than 360,000 people come to the park annually to renew their creative spirit through classes, festivals, exhibitions, dances, children’s theater, music and more.

HEADQUARTERED: Glen Echo SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $75 covers materials for three Saturday Art Explorers parent/child drop-in activities.

• $250 helps cover the cost to book musicians for one free summer concert.

• $500 pays for artists/performers to provide free entertainment during the Carousel Day festival.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with special events at Glen Echo Park.

• Weekly: Assist staff with administrative tasks and pre-event activities.

• Internships

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THE GLORYSTAR CHILDREN’S CHORUS (GCC) (glorystar.org), in its

23rd season, provides music education to children and youths in the joy of choral art. Through a rich repertoire of Asian and Western music, GCC promotes music appreciation and builds bridges in a diverse community.

HEADQUARTERED: Potomac SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $50 helps cover music materials for one student.

• $100 helps cover a pianist for one rehearsal.

• $250 helps cover the venue rental for one rehearsal.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with concerts and special events.

• Weekly: Provide support at rehearsals and with data entry and administration information.

THE HIGHWOOD THEATRE (thehighwoodtheatre.org) is a nonprofit theater company that puts together a season of more than 125 student and professional productions, improv shows and studio events, as well as classes and private lessons. The Highwood Theatre also works in dozens of local public and private schools, mounting productions, teaching classes and providing equipment and services for free or below-market prices.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 sends a professional teaching artist to a local school for a workshop.

• $500 allows a class of 40 to 50 public school students to take a field trip to Highwood.

• $1,000 allows two students to receive a scholarship for a production.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Ongoing: Volunteer as an usher.

• Internships

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IMAGINATION STAGE

(imaginationstage.org) inspires creativity through theater and arts education experiences. Imagination Stage’s programs include arts education classes and performance opportunities, professional theater productions, early childhood programs and in-school efforts to build learning through the arts.

HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 supports scholarships for children and teens.

• $1,000 provides free tickets and pre- and post-theater learning opportunities for 40 Montgomery County Public Schools third-graders.

• $10,000 supports inclusion facilitators, allowing students with and without disabilities to participate together in Imagination Stage’s classes and productions.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with special events, such as the annual gala or the annual Children’s Ball.

• Weekly: Assist with tasks in the administrative offices.

• Internships

INTERACT STORY THEATRE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

(interactstory.com) is a touring educational theater company that brings interactive, arts-based learning opportunities to nearly 30,000 kids and adults each year in schools and communities throughout the area.

HEADQUARTERED: Wheaton SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $50 provides five children with the opportunity to attend a play through the Theatre for All free ticket program.

• $150 provides arts-based learning for 100 to 300 children through classroom workshops teaching reading through theater.

spotlight

Art therapist Gwen Short (left) works with Jane Young (center) and Claudia Krizay during a session at CREATE Arts Center in Silver Spring.

CREATE ARTS CENTER

PHOTO BY LIZ LYNCH

Brightening lives through art programs

BY RACHAEL KEENEY

“YOU CAN TAKE SOMETHING scary and make something beautiful out of it,” says Claudia Krizay, 62, who paints, draws, writes poetry and works in other mediums through the art therapy program at Silver Spring’s CREATE Arts Center.

At 14, Krizay was diagnosed with schizophrenia. At 15, she was hospitalized for it; a “horrible, horrible experience,” she shares in one of the many poems—four books worth—she’s written.

“It’s therapeutic that way, where you can take something inside of you that tortures you, frightens you, and put it down on paper. It helps you understand your illness better,” says Krizay, a Silver Spring resident.

Gwen Short, one of five art therapists at CREATE, says she loves “using art and having people discover things about themselves.” Short screens individuals with emotional, behavioral or cognitive needs who are interested in the “Studio Downstairs” therapy program—the nonprofit moved to Silver Spring Avenue in April, but previously held therapy sessions downstairs at 816 Thayer Ave.—to see if they would benefit most from group or individual art therapy. In addition to making artwork, participants have one-on-one sessions with an art therapist, and also have an outside psychiatrist with whom their CREATE therapist can discuss progress and concerns.

The organization also offers multiple programs for children.

Twenty art teachers lead classes for ages 2-16 throughout the year, summer camps for children 6-12 and, through the smARTkids program, free after-school classes for at-risk students at Takoma Park, Arcola and Woodlin elementary schools.

This past summer, CREATE introduced workshops for adults, too. Linda Marson, the organization’s executive director, says she hopes to create community partnerships that would allow the organization to offer mommy and me classes, events at senior centers, and classes catering to the college interests of 15- to 18-year-olds.

It has been seven years since Krizay was last hospitalized, and now that she knows how to better cope with her symptoms through art, she doubts that she’ll need to be hospitalized again.

Another art therapy student, Jane Young, has been with the organization for nearly two years and recently started her own business, JaneAnnArts, selling paintings, photographs and mixed media pieces. The 52-year-old is legally blind. “I never thought I could sell a piece, have my art in a gallery,” says Young, who lives in a Silver Spring apartment that doubles as her art studio. “I’m learning about the business, and it’s fun.”

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• $500 provides a professional theater experience to 600 students in a single day.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with event coordination or ushering.

• Weekly: Support administration/ outreach activities.

• Internships

THE INTERPLAY ORCHESTRA (interplayorchestra.org) is an inclusive music organization that brings together adults with and without cognitive and physical disabilities to learn and perform music together for the wider community. An education partner at Strathmore, the orchestra performs all genres of music at its year-round concerts.

HEADQUARTERED: North Bethesda

SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $100 covers the cost of purchasing sheet music and CDs for two orchestra members.

• $250 covers part of the cost of purchasing percussion instruments.

• $1,000 covers an annual tuition scholarship for one orchestra member.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • Weekly: Serve as a “bandaide” (must be able to play an instrument).

KALANIDHI DANCE (kalanidhi.

org) inspires appreciation of the classical Indian dance style of Kuchipudi through artistic excellence, performances, educational programs and collaborations. Its training program reaches nearly 100 students annually,

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and its ensemble performs for audiences in the U.S. and around the world, delivering productions that push the traditional style in new and exciting directions.

HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $75 covers the cost for a family of four to attend a Kalanidhi Dance performance.

• $350 covers the cost for one Dancing Stories outreach workshop.

• $750 covers a full scholarship for a student in the Kalanidhi summer camp.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help the organization with special events.

• Weekly: Provide support with data entry administration information.

KID MUSEUM (kid-museum.org) aims to empower children to realize their creative potential and become the innovative problem solvers of the future. Designed for kids ages 6 to 14, the museum’s hands-on programs engage 55,000 visitors annually and blend arts and culture with science and technology. Open seven days a week, programs include field trips, afterschool programs, camps and weekend hours.

HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $150 provides materials for weekend programs.

• $500 provides a scholarship for an after-school program.

• $1,000 sponsors one school field trip for 100 Title I students.

SSL

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

• One day: Provide event support at one of KID’s community events.

• Weekly: Serve in the high school student apprenticeship program.

• Internships

METROPOLITAN BALLET THEATRE & ACADEMY (mbtdance.

org) provides dance instruction and performance opportunities in classical ballet, pointe, jazz, modern and hiphop to students ages 3 through senior adult. Reduced tuition and free tickets are available to families in need. Dance buddies are offered for students with special needs. All who audition for The Nutcracker are cast.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS:

• $250 covers tuition for one student

to attend a week of ballet summer camp.

• $1,000 covers a one-year scholarship for an elementary school ballet student.

• $1,300 pays for a cultural arts assembly at a local elementary school.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Usher a public performance.

• Weekly or monthly: Be a dance buddy for a student with special needs.

• Internships

MONTGOMERY COMMUNITY MEDIA (mymcmedia.org) is the Emmynominated and multiple Telly Award-winning voice of Montgomery

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County that informs, connects, engages and educates communities. MCM creates original content, provides educational instruction and presents content from Montgomery County residents on Access.19, Montgomery Channel 21/995 and online.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $25 provides multimedia supplies for student projects.

• $250 supports scholarships for students to attend camp and have their work broadcast on air.

• $2,500 underwrites Explorer Post 1921 and Explorer Club 1921 for youths in grades 6-12.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help during the EPIC Awards at The Fillmore on June 12, 2019.

• Monthly or long-term: Work on a local TV production or podcast of community interest.

• Internships

MONTGOMERY PHILHARMONIC (montgomeryphilharmonic.org) is a community orchestra. Its program of community engagement reaches 1,200 people through the Rappaport Young Artist Competition, side-byside MS concert, the Youth Chamber Music Festival and Summer Reading Sessions. The Montgomery Philharmonic provides free adult education master classes that feature members of the Baltimore and National symphony orchestras, chamber concerts for seniors, conducting fellowships, and internships for those learning about the music business.

HEADQUARTERED: Gaithersburg SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $75 supports a conductor score for a conducting fellow.

• $250 sponsors the music for a senior citizen chamber concert.

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• $600 underwrites music for one

concert.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help usher a concert.

• Weekly: Provide support with musician and audience development.

• Internships SSL

OLNEY THEATRE CENTER (olneytheatre.org) produces and presents extraordinary professional theater on its four-theater campus, ranging from the classic to the contemporary. As a “teaching theater,” Olney also educates learners of all ages in the art of creating and discovering impactful theater.

HEADQUARTERED: Olney SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 allows 25 students to attend a professional matinee performance.

• $2,000 pays a musical production violinist for two weeks.

• $7,500 purchases the lumber and other materials to build the set for a show in the Mulitz-Gudelsky Lab. SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Be an Olney Theatre ambassador and promote upcoming theater events at your community’s event.

• Ongoing: Serve as a volunteer usher.

• Internships

PEERLESS ROCKVILLE HISTORIC PRESERVATION (peerlessrockville.org) is an awardwinning, community-based nonprofit founded in 1974 to preserve buildings, objects and information important to Rockville’s heritage. Peerless Rockville advances its goals through education, example, advocacy and community involvement.

HEADQUARTERED: Rockville SERVES: Rockville WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $50 supports the organization’s archives and museum collections with free access for students, authors

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and the public.

• $100 supports preservation advocacy efforts toward protecting Rockville’s heritage.

• $250 supports education and outreach programs to provide free diverse local history education.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Assist with educational programs and events throughout the year by welcoming, directing and registering guests.

• Weekly: Assist with collections management and office tasks in the historic Red Brick Courthouse.

• Internships

ROUND HOUSE THEATRE

(roundhousetheatre.org) is a home for ensemble acting and lifelong learning.

Each year, Round House produces a full season of contemporary plays, musicals and modern classics that are seen by 45,000 patrons, and offers year-round educational programming for 4,000 students of all ages.

HEADQUARTERED: Bethesda SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $50 sponsors a pair of Free Play tickets for two students to attend a show at no cost.

• $250 sponsors food and beverages for a Teen Night event for 40 teens.

• $1,000 sponsors a Round House apprentice through a travel stipend for two months.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Assist with a year-end mailing appeal in the administrative office.

• Weekly: Become an usher for Round House shows.

• Internships

SANDY SPRING MUSEUM

(sandyspringmuseum.org) serves as a catalyst for community building by providing opportunities for creative engagement in a range of cultural arts.

The museum provides the environment

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and inspiration for artists, creative individuals and a variety of organizations to create and host events, activities and exhibits that engage, stimulate and bring people together.

HEADQUARTERED: Sandy Spring SERVES: Metro region (primarily the Sandy Spring/Olney area) WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 underwrites one History Happy Hour.

• $500 underwrites marketing associated with a single multicultural program.

• $1,000 provides funding to individual artists to create original works that will be exhibited at the museum.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Help with registration at a special event.

• Weekly: Be a front desk receptionist.

• Internships

SIX DEGREE SINGERS

(singsix.com) is a community choir dedicated to community outreach through engaging, accessible choral music. Six Degree Singers produces choral concerts, commissions original works and participates in community events, such as live performances, festivals and arts outreach and education.

HEADQUARTERED: Silver Spring SERVES: Montgomery County WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 covers the cost of commissioning an original choral piece.

• $1,000 pays for the rights and reproductions of music for one series.

• $10,000 provides wide-ranging operational and administrative support.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Join the concert/event staff as an usher, greeter or stagehand.

• Long-term: Join the planning committees and help organize community events and concerts, secure funding, or design music programming and education.

David B. Hurwitz

CFP®, CRPC®, CRPS®, RICP®, APMA®

Private Wealth Advisor Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP (with flame design) in the U.S. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2018 Ameriprise Financial, Inc., All rights reserved.

6400 Goldsboro Road, Suite 550 Bethesda, MD 20817 Direct: (301) 263-8509 Email: david.b.hurwitz@ampf.com davidbhurwitz.com

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Other Ways to

GIVE SHARING MONTGOMERY FUND thecommunityfoundation.org

Established more than 20 years ago, the Montgomery County office of the Greater Washington Community Foundation was created to make it easier for county residents and businesses to give to the causes most dear to their hearts, anywhere in the world. The foundation also pools contributions from hundreds of people through Sharing Montgomery, a fund that supports local nonprofits serving our low-income neighbors. The foundation’s staff and donor-led committees conduct a vigorous annual vetting process that evaluates each applicant for strong leadership, fiscal management and program excellence. Through a gift to Sharing Montgomery, a donor can touch the lives of thousands of neighbors with safety-net services that address the basic needs of the most vulnerable residents; educational opportunities that help youths to succeed; and workforce-development programs that enable adults to secure living-wage jobs.

ARTS AND HUMANITIES COUNCIL OF MONTGOMERY COUNTY (AHCMC) creativemoco.com Established in 1976, AHCMC is a nonprofit organization with a mission to cultivate and support excellence in the arts and humanities, expand access to cultural expression, and contribute to economic vitality in Montgomery County. As Maryland’s largest and most active local arts agency, AHCMC provides leadership, capacity-building support services and resources to Montgomery County’s arts and humanities community. Donations to AHCMC support programs that provide grants to arts and humanities nonprofits and bring arts education to Montgomery County Public Schools classrooms.

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(storytapestries.org) interweaves professional performances and educational community arts programming. Led by a network of professional artists and educators, its collaboratively designed workshops, performances, exhibits and artist residencies reach more than 100,000 people annually (primarily those living in areas of high poverty) at low- to no cost for participants.

HEADQUARTERED: Germantown SERVES: Metro region WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $55 enables adults to participate in three hours of professional development.

• $150 presents 100 children with an arts integration performance.

• $750 provides a classroom with an in-depth artist-in-residency program for five days.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Support special events.

• Weekly: Remotely support social media communications or data entry.

• Internships

UNEXPECTED STAGE COMPANY

(unexpectedstage.org) is a nonprofit professional theater company that dedicates itself to exploring the intimacies and intricacies of the human experience. The Helen Hayes Awardnominated organization produces plays at affordable prices.

HEADQUARTERED: Montgomery County SERVES: Montgomery County and surrounding counties WHAT A DONATION BUYS: • $250 provides costumes for a full cast.

• $1,000 covers set materials needed to bring a play to life.

• $10,000 pays actors, a stage manager and designers for the complete run of a production.

SSL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: • One day: Assist as an usher or in the box office for a performance.

• Weekly or long-term: Be an assistant stage manager, set builder or graphic designer. n

Leggetts Leave Lasting Legacy of Education “…I want to make certain that everyone has a seat at our table….

And if the table isn’t big enough, we’ll make it bigger.”

Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett spoke those words at his swearing-in ceremony nearly 12 years ago. Since then, Mr. and Mrs. Leggett have worked tirelessly to ensure Montgomery County is a great place to live, work, and go to school.

To create a lasting legacy of opportunity for all, Ike and Catherine Leggett recently established a scholarship for students under-represented in higher education in the Achieving Collegiate Excellence and Success (ACES) program, a partnership among Montgomery County Public Schools, Montgomery College, and the Universities at Shady Grove.

Join the hundreds of donors who have already supported the Ike and Catherine Leggett Scholarship. Your gift will provide students access to higher education for generations to come. Contact the following individuals for more information.

David Sears Montgomery College 240-567-7492 david.sears@montgomerycollege.edu

Richee Smith Andrews The Universities at Shady Grove 301-738-6113 rsmith25@umd.edu

to Long & Foster | Christie’s exclusive “Showcase of Homes” 50 years of homecomings. For half a century we’ve been guiding clients through the process of buying and selling homes.

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Source: * No. 1 independent brand as part of HomeServices of America according to the REAL Trends 500. All other information is based on data supplied MRIS and its member Association(s) of REALTORS, who are not responsible for its accuracy. Does not reflect all activity in the marketplace. 10.1.17 – 9.30.18 as of 10.9.18. 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. All rights reserved.

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Charming Colonial featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 full and 2 half baths with large backyard. One block to NIH and minutes to downtown Bethesda. Three finished levels including a sunroom, large screened porch, and a renovated gourmet kitchen. Contact Jody Aucamp 240.778.8227

$1,250,000

All brick Colonial offers NEW chef’s kitchen, elegant owner’s suite with NEW bath, NEW hall bath, NEW flagstone patio, plus updated Marvin windows and refinished hardwood floors! Great location for commuters and Swim & Tennis club in River Falls! 5 Bedrooms, 4 full, 2 half bath.

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Potomac/Bradley Blvd Estates

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Bright and airy, all brick home on landscaped 1/2 acre lot in Avenel with 5 bedrooms, 4 full and 1 half baths plus glorious sun room, updated gourmet kitchen open to family room with access to deck and yard. Updated systems plus generator! Commuters dream!

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$1,895,000

Custom home with 6 bedrooms, 5 full baths on over 1 acre.

Detached, enclosed heated indoor pool with a retractable roof. Separate carriage house, perfect for guests, in-law suite, or home office. New gourmet kitchen open to family room with floor to ceiling fireplace. Walk-out lower level with exercise and billiard room, wet bar, and more!

Beautiful stone and brick Colonial on 2.9 acres at the end of a cul-de-sac near Potomac Village. Custom built and featuring a glorious 2-story screened porch addition, high ceilings, and hardwood floors with 6 bedrooms, 6 full and 3 half baths, plus walkout lower level to stunning manicured grounds!

Potomac/Potomac Falls

Potomac/Avenel

NEW ON MARKET

NEW ON MARKET

Potomac/Avenel

$1,525,000

Spacious and bright Colonial with 5 bedrooms, 4 full and 1 half baths that features a spectacular lanai-covered pool, spa, and waterfall in a very private garden setting. Steps away from the Capital Crescent Trail and shops.

Contact Gail Gordon 301.529.8527

U N D E R CO N T R A C T

$1,500,000

$1,249,000

Mid-Century Modern “Tree House” with California flair on 1+ acre lot in close-in Potomac with 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths. Enjoy relaxing in the delightful screened porch, stone patio or deck all while overlooking a tranquil setting with stream.

P R I VAT E E XC LU S I V E

NEW PRICE

Potomac/River Falls

N. Potomac/Belvedere

$2,295,000

Impeccable custom home with 6 bedrooms, 6 full and 3 half baths on flat 1/2 acre lot in the gated community of Rapley Preserve at Avenel. Superior craftsmanship with stunning 2-story living room, pristine gourmet kitchen, main level owner’s suite, wine cellar, elevator and more!

$2,695,000

Renovated and expanded Colonial on 2 acre lot with heated pool! Glorious kitchen with vaulted ceilings and floor to ceiling stone fireplace. Main level owner’s suite with NEW luxurious bath. Separate in-law suite, walk out lower level, 2 screened porches, stone patio, deck, elevator and 4 car garage. 5 bedrooms, 7 full, 2 half baths.

$3,200,000

Stunning custom home with 7 bedrooms, 7 full and 2 half baths in gated Rapley Preserve at Avenel. Grand sized rooms, high ceilings, and high-end finishes including an accessible elevator to all levels, separate apartment, and a main level owner’s suite with his/her baths plus private terrace create an unsurpassed, luxurious feel.

301.365.9090 | info@BannerTeam.com | www.BannerTeam.com 4650 East West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland | 301.907.7600

10:34 AM

Wendy Banner Bethesda Nov-Dec8.indd 4

10/11/18 2:08 PM

Bethesda Gateway Office Already Over $1 Billion in Sales for 2018

Bethesda / Close-in

$2,695,000

Potomac / Avenel

$2,495,000

North Bethesda / Luxmanor

$2,250,000

Brand new modern farmhouse with 4 levels and over 8,600 sq. ft. Stunning chef’s kitchen open to family room with 2-sided gas fireplace, master with Carrara marble bath, screened porch with fireplace, 3-car garage. Pool-sized lot just 1.5 miles to downtown Bethesda.

Cindy Souza 301.332.5032 / Cindy.Souza@LNF.com

Magnificent Georgian Colonial on 2 landscaped acres.

Two-story marble foyer, paneled archway to living room, gourmet kitchen open to great room, first-floor library, two fireplaces. Master bedroom overlooks pool, terrace and garden bordered by towering trees.

Julie Canard 202.236.2200 / JulieCanard@gmail.com

Magnificent expansion / renovation with grand living spaces on beautiful, private half-acre with pool, patios and firepit. Five-star professional-grade kitchen, great room with gas fireplace, large first-floor master with office . . . flawless!

Michael Matese 301.806.6829/mike@michaelmatese.com

Potomac

Potomac

Potomac / Piney Glen Village

$1,650,000

$1,398,000

$1,295,000

Magnificent, sprawling brick Colonial on spectacular half+ acre in gated community. Elegant 2-story foyer with double staircase, gourmet kitchen, first-floor office and sunroom, walkout lower level, 3-car garage. Family room leads to expansive deck with lush wooded views.

Susan Fitzpatrick 240.793.8523 / Sue@LNF.com

Beautifully renovated, expansive stone colonial on 3 lush acres with pool, barn, stalls and workshop. Detached 3-car garage. Gourmet kitchen, first-floor master, great room with stone wall fireplace and walls of windows. Spectacular outdoor oasis — an entertainer’s dream.

Michael Matese 301.806.6829/mike@michaelmatese.com

Spacious, light-filled Colonial with expansive rooms, high ceilings and gleaming hardwoods throughout. Six bedrooms, 5.5 baths including large master with sitting area. Family room off kitchen, 2-car garage, beautiful deck overlooking professionally landscaped yard.

Jim Ledet 240.601.3719 / James.Ledet@LNF.com

North Bethesda / Timberlawn

Potomac / Willowbrook

Darnestown

$1,200,000

One of the largest models in Timberlawn! Premier lot on cul-de-sac, backing to trees and stream. Solid oak floors recently refinished, entire interior painted, walkout basement with additional bedroom and full bath. Minutes to Metro, Pike & Rose, NIH, Walter Reed!

Brad Wilcox 301.785.2144 / Brad.Wilcox@LNF.com

$749,000

Wonderful opportunity! Spacious, affordable rambler on over half-acre lot. Four bedrooms, two full baths on main level with additional bedroom and full bath on daylight lower level. Deck, 2-car carpot. Close to high school and Ride-on.

Mary Bajwa 202.528.6867 / Mary.Bajwa@LNF.com

$599,990

Picture-perfect Colonial, sunny and updated, on over one acre. Kitchen open to newly added family room with stone fireplace and access to slate patio. Den with fireplace, refinished hardwoods, finished lower level, 2-car garage.

Convenient to Harris Teeter and schools.

Mary Magner 301.785.1601 / Mary.Magner@LNF.com

BethesdaGatewaySales.com | LongandFoster.com 4650 East West Highway, Bethesda, Maryland | 301.907.7600

Bethesda Gateway 2018 Nov-Dec.indd 1

10/10/18 4:53 PM

interior design. architecture. home sales.

PHOTO BY STACY ZARIN GOLDBERG

home

A Chevy Chase couple’s screened porch includes a stone-topped table and wovenvinyl and teak chairs. For more on their newly built home, turn to page 216.

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home | HOUSE APPROPRIATIONS

3

2 1

PERFECT PRESENTS We’ve scoured the town to find holiday gifts for everyone on your list

1. TRIM A TREE

2. SOUNDS OF THE SEASON

3. MONTHLY MASTERPIECE

New homeowners always appreciate receiving ornaments to adorn the evergreen. This cute snowman with a carrot nose and a felt hat and coat makes a great stocking stuffer. The set of four includes snowmen in red, pink, turquoise and mint green jackets for $23.96 at World Market in Chevy Chase (202-244-8720; worldmarket.com).

Skip the plastic stuff this year and opt for high-quality wood toys that will last. The kids’ musical instrument gift set from German maker Manufaktur Wiener includes eight instruments in a bright red gift box.

It sells for $125 at Neiman Marcus in Friendship Heights (202-966-9700; neimanmarcus.com).

Add style to a friend’s home office or a teacher’s desk with a gift that keeps on giving all year. The 2019 Midnight Menagerie desk calendar from Rifle Paper Co. features 12 colorful, jewel-toned illustrations of flora and fauna. Buy it for $16.95 at Papyrus in Chevy Chase (202-568-6543; papyrusonline.com).

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ALL COURTESY PHOTOS

BY CAROLYN WEBER

4

6

5

7

4. COOL CAKES

5. TOAST THE COAST

6. FLOWER POWER

7. YOUR SERVE

Get that techie away from the computer and into the kitchen with a 3-D pancake printer. Load designs with an SD card, fill the dispenser bottle and the Dash PancakeBot drips the batter onto the hot griddle. It comes with design software, and the online community is updated with new patterns weekly. It’s priced at $499.99 at Crate & Barrel in Spring Valley in D.C. (202-3646100; crateandbarrel.com).

For the host who likes to choose sides, these kitschy coasters proudly display loyalty to the country’s Atlantic Ocean coastline. Approximately 5½ inches square, they’re made in the USA of Baltic birch, and a boxed set of four costs $34 at Red Orchard in Bethesda (301-571-7333; redorchard.com).

Give the gift of hope with red amaryllis bulbs to brighten gray winter days and remind someone that spring will come again.

Both American Plant locations in Bethesda carry kits that include bulbs, soil and a container, and range in price from $11.99 to $49.99 (301-656-3311 and 301469-7690; americanplant.net).

A decorative platter is a beautiful and useful gift, and a welcome addition to a holiday table. This Italian earthenware has a handpressed lace pattern reminiscent of a snowflake, measures 12¾ by 17¾ inches, and retails for $68.

Find this and a wide array of Vietri products at The Cottage Monet in Rockville Town Square (301-2792422; cottagemonet.com). ■

Carolyn Weber lives in Silver Spring and frequently writes about architecture and home design.

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Michael and Roanna Kessler and their kids, (from left) Noah, Henry and Leo, at their Chevy Chase home

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fresh start FAMILY PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

A young couple tore down a small, dated rambler and built a new home in Chevy Chase for their growing family

BY CHARLOTTE SAFAVI INTERIOR PHOTOS BY STACY ZARIN GOLDBERG

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER | JULY/AUGUST 2016 2018

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The Kesslers’ rambler (left) was replaced with a Craftsman-style home (above).

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BEFORE PHOTO COURTESY OF THE KESSLERS

home

EXTERIOR PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

L

ocation meant everything to Roanna and Michael Kessler.

That’s why, despite knowing they’d eventually have to remodel or rebuild to accommodate their growing family, the couple bought a dated, dark and small rambler in Chevy Chase West near Norwood Park in 2013. Now, the Kesslers have three boys: Henry, 7, Noah, 3, and Leo, born earlier this year. “ We chose this area for its walkability and to be close to my family,” says Roanna, who grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, after an early childhood in Queens, New York.

She and Michael—both doctors— met in New York City during their medical training.

“The final straw came when the basement flooded for the second time,” Roanna says of the rambler.

“We had to take out the old carpet and found mold under it. That got us to pull the trigger. We decided to tear down and build a new house.”

In 2016, the Kesslers retained B e the s d a-b a s e d C a stle wo o d Builders, partly because it’s a onestop design-build firm and partly because they were familiar with the company ’s work through friends. They wanted to build a four-bedroom, 4,000-square-foot Craftsman-style house on their lot.

The Kesslers moved to an apartment at nearby Wisconsin Place until the house was completed in 2017.

A circular West Elm mirror with an antique finish hangs above an Interlude console in the foyer. The front door pops in an unexpected yellow, which works well with the home’s gray exterior.

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The parquet floor and custom dining table pay homage to the Kesslers’ love of wood and detail. Four Hands chairs are covered in a Romo fabric with nailhead trim. The Sputnik-style light fixture from Oly Studio adds a midcentury vibe.

Inset: The chevron-patterned, gray-washed buffet is by Brownstone Upholstery. Above it, open shelves hold a mix of conversation starters, including the homeowners’ inherited and collected pieces.

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Benjamin Moore’s Amazon Green coats the walls and ceiling moldings in the home office.

The desk by Julian Chichester combines feminine and masculine lines in its sculptural form. The floor lamp is from Visual Comfort.

“Roanna found me on Houzz,” says Bethesda-based Sandra Meyer, the owner of Ella Scott Design, who came on board six months before ground was broken. Roanna had been browsing the architecture and design website when she spotted a dining room designed by Meyer that featured curved-back klismos dining chairs in a Romo cut-velvet fabric.

“After we met,” Meyer says, “it became clear that I was a good match for Roanna and Mike’s aesthetic.”

Me yer help e d cho ose finishes , cabinetry, colors, lighting and furnishings for the new home. The most important things on the Kesslers’ wish list included

a home office that felt like a library, a grand dining room for entertaining and a luxurious master bedroom retreat.

“They wanted to create a comfortable home that the family could grow into,” Meyer says. “But they also wanted the house to have stylish spaces with an eclectic, ‘grown-up’ feel.”

Roanna also wanted interesting details throughout the home, noting that she’s “very detail-oriented, not cookie-cutter about things.”

“One of the things I recall growing up in Queens was our old dining room,” Roanna says. “We lived in a historic home, and that floor had beautiful inlays.”

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The Kesslers’ parquet floor in the new dining room features pale ash border inlays worked into its darkstained oak boards. This special floor defines the space, while also injecting touches of craftsmanship and timelessness into the new home. Other details include the tray ceiling in the master bedroom and the combination of painted and cerused oak custom cabinetry in the home office.

“We wanted it to have an Old World library feel,” Meyer says of the office. “We wrapped the space in a sophisticated blue-green, and added a wall of cabinetry, with a ladder that slides over the entry’s glass-paned French doors.”

A multiarmed light fixture adds a contemporary twist to the classic room, where the Kesslers like to work when they’re home. “It’s a wonderful adult space,” Roanna says. “When I’m in there, it feels peaceful, and I get things done.”

Other than the blue-green home office, the decorating palette runs fairly neutral. The paint in the bedroom is a warm neutral with blush undertones, which Michael selected.

“It’s funny because he’s colorblind,” Roanna says. “He just found it appealing, so Sandra went with that, selecting a lighter version of it for our dining room walls.”

The dining room, of course, got a variation on the klismos chairs that Roanna had coveted on Houzz. The exact chair had been discontinued, but Meyer found a similar style, along with a custommade table. “The homeowners do 222 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

In the master bedroom, edgy black touches include the Visual Comfort porcelain lamps and Romo fabric Roman shades. The midcenturyinspired side chair and ottoman are by Lee Industries.

Lessons Learned Roanna and Michael Kessler learned a lot during the design and construction of their new 4,000-square-foot home in Chevy Chase. Here, Roanna shares some of her takeaways: Be smart: Visit your architect and builder’s previous projects to see how some of the finishes and features look in person.

Plan well: Work closely with your architect and designer until you’re completely satisfied with the layout.

Once the builder starts framing it’s difficult and costly to move walls.

Break it up: To maintain sanity and avoid getting overwhelmed by the selection of materials, categorize architectural/design elements into easily manageable groups, such as lighting, cabinetry, tiles and plumbing fixtures.

You know best: When selecting materials and elements, choose based on what is important to you and works with your lifestyle rather than automatically getting the highest-end products or what is being pushed by vendors. Try to think long term and timeless, rather than trendy.

Splurge-worthy: Know the spaces you want to splurge on and which rooms can be approached with economy.

Get inspired: Flip through home design magazines and browse websites like Houzz and Pinterest for inspiration.

Be sure to share your ideas and clippings with your architect, builder and designer.

Be original: Incorporate unique items into your interior design, like unusual light fixtures, handcrafted vanities from antique stores and other artisanal items.

Make it yours: Personal finishes and details make a house feel like a home. Do customized features that are personal. For example, the wood inlay on the dining room floor has a customized finish.

Stay in the moment: Try to enjoy the process. Building your home isn’t an everyday activity. It’s special.

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home The screened porch’s faux wicker furniture was purchased at Crate & Barrel. The custom fireplace mantel was added in teak to tie the accent woods together, and the fireplace surround stone inspired the porch’s palette.

a lot of entertaining. They often have colleagues and friends to dinner, so they wanted a large table and a conversational space,” Meyer says.

The dining table is crafted from solid maple and seats 12. Meyer had the natural fissures filled with lacquer and added walnut banding to square it off. “I’m interested in furnishings with details that help elevate their design, but, at the same time, will become classics,” Roanna says.

For the master bedroom, the couple went with a more traditional design.

A pair of chic cerused oak and whitelacquer nightstands sandwich a tufted bed. A plush and fully upholstered bench

sits at the foot of the bed, and stylish touches of black punctuate the room, such as the shapely porcelain gourd bedside lamps. A faux fur drapes over a modern chair and ottoman, both with polished chrome legs.

“She’s feminine and fashion-forward,” Meyer says of Roanna. “Her life is filled with boys, so we created a bedroom that was serene, polished and stylish. It’s also a bit edgy and a bit glam, but, above all, it’s luxurious.”

Overall, however, the Kesslers wanted a home that lived well for a young, boisterous family. There are few hard edges in the furniture and plenty of hardwearing fabrics, including the indoor-

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outdoor material used on the pieces that furnish their screened back porch.

“We love this outdoors area because it’s protected from bugs and can be used year-round with its ceiling fan and cool stone floors, and its cozy fireplace for the cold months,” Roanna says.

Meyer went with teak and faux wicker furniture here, with hardy vinyl and Sunbrella textiles. “They are fun casual people who like living a regular family life,” Meyer says. “In the end, the home’s décor is eclectic, but it’s really filled with furnishings that they love.” n Wr i t e r C h ar l o t t e S a fa v i li v e s in Alexandria, Virginia.

Bruce Lane and dog Milo in the family’s exercise room

Designed for Fitness

BY CARALEE ADAMS

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

SOME HOME GYMS ARE simple, just a few weights and a stationary bike. Others are elaborate, with all the amenities of a health club. Regardless of the size of the space, builders and architects say some features are worth including.

“You want to make it nice enough to have some incentive to use it,” says Bill Millholland, executive vice president at Case Architects & Remodelers in Bethesda. That can mean mounting a television, wiring the room with Wi-Fi and installing speakers in the ceiling.

Carib Daniel Martin, principal architect at Carib Daniel Martin Architecture + Design in Kensington, suggests insulating the walls of home gyms as a sound buffer and installing rubberized flooring to guard against weights being dropped. “Make sure the ceiling is high enough to give you a full range of motion and you aren’t hitting light fixtures,” says Martin, who also recommends wall-mounted fans to keep the air flowing as you exercise.

With proper planning, a basic home gym need not be costlier than other rooms. A rubberized floor may cost just $4 to $5 a square foot, and a mirrored wall is a simple way to make a space seem larger, leaving the exercise equipment as the main expense. More elaborate options, such as below-grade, full-height sports courts can range from $150,000 to $250,000, says Phil Leibovitz, CEO at Sandy Spring Builders in Bethesda.

These three local families have created fitness spaces that motivate them to keep moving.

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The built-in basketball court was one of the reasons Bruce Lane and his wife, Leslie, decided to buy their Bethesda home.

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PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

Home court

After Bruce and Leslie Lane bought their 16,000-square-foot home in Bethesda’s Edgemoor neighborhood in 2013, they worked with the home’s original construction company, Sandy Spring Builders, to gut much of the main level and create a reconfigured space that would better suit their needs and taste.

But the lower level, where the family plays and works out, went untouched.

“This floor was one of the reasons why I wanted to buy the house. You have a built-in basketball court, exercise room and amazing rec room,” says Bruce, who enjoys shooting baskets after a day at his office—just a few blocks away at The Meridian Group, where he is co-founder and managing director.

Leslie, a freelance photographer with a home office, uses the elliptical, treadmill and weights a couple of times a week. “There is no excuse not to work out,” says Leslie, who usually watches the news or a movie on the wallmounted television while she’s in the exercise room. “I was excited to have a designated gym. I knew it would up my workout level.”

The Lanes’ two children are now in college, but both were active in high school sports, so the gym was a popular spot to hang out with friends.

The basketball court was especially a hit with their daughter, Dana, who was a forward on the Georgetown Day School girls basketball team and would invite classmates over to play. The court, which is about 26 by 40 feet with a 24-foot ceiling, is also good for playing badminton or practicing soccer shots.

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Anu Dahiya (far left) uses her family’s home gym to work out with friends.

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PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

An Inspiring Space

Tucked away in the basement of Ravi and Anu Dahiya’s home in the Avenel neighborhood of Bethesda is a home gym with a black ceiling, black floor, backlit white shoji screens and a wall of mirrors that together create an inviting space to work out.

“This is a small space, so a black ceiling makes it feel higher and the screens are a calming influence,” with their clean lines, frame and opaque material, says Anthony Wilder of Anthony Wilder Design/Build in Cabin John, which redesigned what used to be an unfinished storage room into a functional gym.

Ravi, who was a member of the Harvard University rowing team, uses the rowing machine in the gym four or five times a week, often in the afternoon. Two ceiling fans help keep the space cool, which he says is key with a hard workout.

“For me, the big issue is just time,” says Ravi, a facial plastic surgeon who goes to work early in Rockville and is busy with the activities of his two children in the afternoons and evenings. “I need a very time-efficient workout, so to have it at home is absolutely essential, otherwise I would never work out.”

The rubberized floor has some give, which is good for Anu, an internal medicine doctor who uses open space in the gym to exercise. She often plays training videos and uses weights when working out with friends.

There is an illusion of natural light in the room thanks to the translucent shoji screens (made of a synthetic material to look like rice paper). The screens cover up the furnace, hot water heater and other utilities. Track lighting is mounted on the ceiling, which is painted black to hide the wires and duct work above.

Ravi says he likes the bare-bones industrial feel of the home gym, and the design elements and lighting make it welcoming. “It’s not a room I dread coming down to,” he says.

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Climbing the Walls

Step into Larry and Warrenetta Baker’s home in the Palisades neighborhood of Bethesda and the first large room to the right will not be filled with art or a grand piano, as it was with the previous owners.

There is no dining room table or even a couch.

Instead, the room, with its 22-foot-tall vaulted ceiling, has a climbing wall, regulation height (10foot) basketball hoop and a bare heart pine floor.

“We are not into fancy entertaining,” says Warrenetta, a corporate tax attorney. “We wanted the space to be fun. We set it up to be kid-friendly.”

The Bakers created the indoor fitness area in their contemporary home in 2011, when their sons were young. Larry, a retired attorney, built the climbing wall, using plywood panels with climbing holds. The panels are secured to the studs but can be rearranged into different configurations to adjust the level of difficulty. On snowy days when their dead-end street was among the last to be plowed and the kids were stuck inside, the climbing wall was a big draw.

“Boy heaven,” Larry says, echoing the words his parents used when referring to the house, which also has a foosball table, pool table and pingpong table on the main level.

Although their sons are now 19 and 23, the climbing wall is still used. “My personal trainer recommended some stretches for me to do on it,” Warrenetta says.

Originally, most walls in the house were beige.

When the Bakers installed the climbing wall and basketball hoop, they chose colors with a playful vibe. “It was a big open space with lots of angles and freestanding walls,” says Debbie Wiener, owner of Designing Solutions in Silver Spring, who helped Warrenetta transform the space. “She wanted fun, and I felt the colors fit her personality.” They chose Benjamin Moore’s Jalapeño Pepper green for the climbing wall and Salsa Dancing red for the wall behind the basketball hoop. n

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Larry and Warrenetta Baker wanted a large space in their home to be fun and kid-friendly. Larry built the climbing wall with plywood panels and climbing holds.

PHOTO BY GREG POWERS

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home | BY THE NUMBERS

Data provided by

AUGUST’S MOST EXPENSIVE

at A peek rea’s f the a some o pensive x most e sold n rece tly s house

HOME SALES SALE PRICE:

$5.1 million LIST PRICE: $5.6 MILLION

Address: 9121 Burdette Road, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 395 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 8/1

SALE PRICE:

$2.6 million LIST PRICE: $2.6 MILLION

Address: 7108 Ridgewood Ave., Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 64 Listing Agency: Evers & Co. Real Estate, a Long & Foster Company Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 5/1

SALE PRICE:

$2.6 million LIST PRICE: $2.7 MILLION

SALE PRICE:

$3.5 million LIST PRICE: $4.4 MILLION

Address: 10017 Bentcross Drive, Potomac 20854 Days on Market: 408 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 6/3

Address: 5310 Hampden Lane, Bethesda 20814 Days on Market: 13 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 4/1

SALE PRICE:

$2.5 million LIST PRICE: $2.5 MILLION

SALE PRICE:

$2.8 million

Address: 9053 Holly Leaf Lane, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 43 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 8 Full/Half Baths: 7/2

LIST PRICE: $2.8 MILLION

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

SALE PRICE:

$2.5 million LIST PRICE: $2.7 MILLION

Address: 10 Kirke St. W., Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 70 Listing Agency: Long & Foster Real Estate Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 3/2

COURTESY PHOTOS

Address: 6940 Oregon Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20015 Days on Market: 336 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 6/1

THE FLEISHER GROUP PRESENTS

A GRACIOUS STONE COLONIAL IN KENWOOD

5214 OAKLAND ROAD, CHEVY CHASE MD ď‚ HEART OF KENWOOD This gracious stone colonial built in 2007 is sited on a beautiful 1/3 acre lot on a quiet street in the heart of Kenwood. An abundance of natural light from oversized windows and French doors, wide plank hardwood flooring throughout, and beautiful 9+ foot ceilings grace this stately and timeless home. A volume ceiling in the foyer and curving stair way introduce an elegant floor plan perfectly suited to large-scale entertaining as well as more relaxed family living. The main level features a true chef's kitchen with adjoining morning/breakfast room, formal living and dining rooms, den, office and library. Built in cabinetry, detailed casings and mouldings, arched doorways and bay windows create timelessly beautiful living spaces. Reached by formal and informal stairways, the upper levels have six bedrooms and include a stunning master suite with sitting room and luxurious bath, as well as a full-sized laundry room. The gracious upper level landings and hallways convey scale and privacy. The Lower Level completes this stunning home with recreation room, media room and full-service bar. The rear garden includes a beautiful flagstone patio with exterior lighting and mature landscaping and specimen plantings. Wonderful neighborhood and community located just one block from the Capital Crescent Trail with easy access to downtown Bethesda and DC.

MARC FLEISHER

+1 202 438 4880 cell marc@thefleishergroup.com

thef leishergroup

LEE ARROWOOD

+1 202 251 3175 cell lee@thefleishergroup.com

Nov Dec 5214 Oakland.indd 1

+1 301 967 3344 office

5454 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase MD 20815

10/2/2018 11:14:50 AM

home | BY THE NUMBERS SALE PRICE:

$2.5 million LIST PRICE: $2.7 MILLION

Address: 135 Hesketh St., Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 45 Listing Agency: Washington Fine Properties Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 4/2

SALE PRICE:

$2.5 million LIST PRICE: $2.5 MILLION

Address: 6134 Nevada Ave., Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 16 Listing Agency: Compass Bedrooms: 4 Full/Half Baths: 4/1

LIST PRICE: $2.4 MILLION

Address: 8610 Fernwood Road, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 17 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 4/1

SALE PRICE:

$2.3 million LIST PRICE: $2.4 MILLION

Address: 7110 45th St., Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 91 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 5/1

SALE PRICE: SALE PRICE:

$2.5 million LIST PRICE: $2.5 MILLION

Address: 9908 Logan Drive, Potomac 20854 Days on Market: 0 Listing Agency: Realex Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 6/3

$2.1 million LIST PRICE: $2.2 MILLION

Address: 6 Leland Court, Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 134 Listing Agency: Long & Foster Real Estate Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 6/1

SALE PRICE: SALE PRICE:

$2.4 million LIST PRICE: $2.5 MILLION

Address: 10020 Counselman Road, Potomac 20854 Days on Market: 167 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 7 Full/Half Baths: 7/1

SALE PRICE:

$2.4 million LIST PRICE: $2.5 MILLION

Address: 3940 McKinley St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20015 Days on Market: 14 Listing Agency: TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 5/1

$2.1 million LIST PRICE: $2.1 MILLION

Address: 8911 Saunders Lane, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 118 Listing Agency: Long & Foster Real Estate Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 5/2

SALE PRICE:

$2 million LIST PRICE: $2.4 MILLION

Address: 7024 Mountain Gate Drive, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 724 Listing Agency: Washington Fine Properties Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 7/1

SALE PRICE:

$2 million LIST PRICE: $2 MILLION

SALE PRICE:

$2.4 million 234

Address: 8620 Fenway Drive, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 0

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Listing Agency: Long & Foster Real Estate Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 4/2

SALE PRICE:

$1.9 million LIST PRICE: $2 MILLION

Address: 7504 Marbury Road, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 57 Listing Agency: Long & Foster Real Estate Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 5/1

SALE PRICE:

$1.9 million LIST PRICE: $2 MILLION

Address: 8030 Glengalen Lane, Chevy Chase 20815 Days on Market: 136 Listing Agency: McEnearney Associates Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 5/1

SALE PRICE:

$1.9 million LIST PRICE: $1.9 MILLION

Address: 6519 Old Farm Lane, North Bethesda 20852 Days on Market: 133 Listing Agency: RE/MAX Elite Services Bedrooms: 6 Full/Half Baths: 6/2

SALE PRICE:

$1.9 million LIST PRICE: $2.3 MILLION

Address: 10725 Ardnave Place, Potomac 20854 Days on Market: 68 Listing Agency: Wydler Brothers Bedrooms: 4 Full/Half Baths: 5/1

SALE PRICE:

$1.9 million LIST PRICE: $1.9 MILLION

Address: 7703 Granada Drive, Bethesda 20817 Days on Market: 74 Listing Agency: Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Bedrooms: 5 Full/Half Baths: 4/2 Note: Some sale and list prices have been rounded.

2018

Jill Schwartz Group Collection Providing you with a best in class real estate experience.

Jill Schwartz is defined by the convergence of boldness and passion. This dynamic blend is reflected in every aspect of her business as she caters to a variety of clients, from her hometown neighbors in Bethesda to the high profile clientele in DC.

$500M+

For Sale

Career listings and sales — Reach out for more information about my private exclusive listings in Burning Tree Estates and Highgate

2018 Sales 722 8th St NW 5205 Brookeway Dr 3901 20th St NE 1527 31st St NW 7307 Monticello Blvd 1314 Farragut St NW 709 Jackson St NE #1 5566 15th St N 5139 Westbard Ave 2112 8th St NW #0328 6514 Elmhirst Dr 7334 Heatherhill Ct 1418 Meridian Pl NW 7334 Heatherhill Ct 1316 Rhode Island Ave NW #B 2601 Dewitt Ave 605 Rhode Island Ave #2 1516 44th St NW 508 N Highland St 5405 Linden Ct 521 Longfellow St NW 4949 Allan Rd 6007 Bradley Blvd 10 Dudley Ct #5 905 Bradley Blvd

Under Contract 710 E St NW 4960 Fairmont Ave #PH-4

Jill Schwartz, Principal Vice President, Compass Sports & Entertainment jill@compass.com 301.758.7224 jillschwartzgroup.com 7200 Wisconsin Ave Suite 500 Bethesda, MD 20814

@jsgrealestate @jillschwartzgroup @jillschwartzre

Real Experience.

Real Success.

Real Estate.

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 7200 Wisconsin Ave Suite 500, Bethesda, MD 20814 | 301.304.8444

home | BY THE NUMBERS

REAL ESTATE TRENDS

BY ZIP CODE

AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2018

20015 (Upper NW D.C.) Number of Homes Sold 16 Average Sold Price $1.1 Mil. Average Days on Market 30 Above Asking Price 4 8 Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million 8

14 $1.4 Mil. 40 6 5 11

AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2018

20818 (Cabin John)

20854 (Potomac)

Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

4 2 $1.5 Mil. $1.1 Mil. 38 16 0 1 3 1 3 2

AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2018

53 $1.2 Mil. 93 6 37 27

47 $1.2 Mil. 60 8 32 26

20016 (Upper NW D.C.)

20832 (Olney)

20855 (Rockville)

Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

Number of Homes Sold 16 18 Average Sold Price $548,119 $594,986 Average Days on Market 32 19 2 9 Above Asking Price Below Asking Price 12 6 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 17 19 Average Sold Price $552,300 $534,258 Average Days on Market 64 41 3 4 Above Asking Price 5 5 Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

20850 (Rockville)

20877 (Gaithersburg)

Number of Homes Sold 29 22 Average Sold Price $646,097 $734,405 Average Days on Market 53 40 Above Asking Price 6 7 Below Asking Price 21 13 Sold Over $1 Million 3 3

Number of Homes Sold 10 13 Average Sold Price $405,740 $465,230 Average Days on Market 77 37 Above Asking Price 2 3 Below Asking Price 7 9 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

20851 (Rockville)

20878 (North Potomac/ Gaithersburg)

Number of Homes Sold 18 10 Average Sold Price $382,836 $422,100 Average Days on Market 25 30 Above Asking Price 8 3 Below Asking Price 8 7 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 27 40 Average Sold Price $674,370 $686,440 Average Days on Market 49 39 Above Asking Price 9 8 Below Asking Price 12 28 Sold Over $1 Million 2 1

20852 (North Bethesda/Rockville)

20879 (Gaithersburg)

Number of Homes Sold 11 18 Average Sold Price $671,973 $745,222 28 48 Average Days on Market Above Asking Price 0 6 Below Asking Price 7 7 Sold Over $1 Million 3 3

Number of Homes Sold 12 13 Average Sold Price $407,042 $465,800 38 30 Average Days on Market Above Asking Price 0 4 Below Asking Price 9 7 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

20853 (Rockville)

20882 (Gaithersburg)

Number of Homes Sold 30 30 Average Sold Price $493,112 $503,750 Average Days on Market 45 23 Above Asking Price 5 9 Below Asking Price 18 17 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 17 12 Average Sold Price $606,971 $592,108 Average Days on Market 44 52 Above Asking Price 6 3 Below Asking Price 9 9 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

21 21 $1.4 Mil. $1.5 Mil. 33 46 7 6 11 10 13 13

20814 (Bethesda) Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

14 23 $1 Mil. $1.1 Mil. 47 37 3 4 9 14 4 8

20815 (Chevy Chase) Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

28 $1.3 Mil. 55 4 21 20

31 $1.5 Mil. 42 10 20 23

20816 (Bethesda) Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

20 $1.2 Mil. 32 9 8 12

12 $1.3 Mil. 16 7 3 10

20817 (Bethesda) Number of Homes Sold Average Sold Price Average Days on Market Above Asking Price Below Asking Price Sold Over $1 Million

236

41 $1.2 Mil. 61 5 27 18

36 $1.4 Mil. 71 9 23 24

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AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 2017

AUGUST 2018

20886 (Gaithersburg)

20902 (Silver Spring)

20906 (Silver Spring)

Number of Homes Sold 6 11 Average Sold Price $436,855 $451,909 Average Days on Market 21 35 Above Asking Price 2 2 Below Asking Price 3 7 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 27 27 Average Sold Price $429,556 $456,326 Average Days on Market 35 24 Above Asking Price 10 8 Below Asking Price 12 16 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 33 35 Average Sold Price $459,519 $444,740 Average Days on Market 37 31 Above Asking Price 11 13 Below Asking Price 14 16 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

20895 (Kensington)

20903 (Silver Spring)

20910 (Silver Spring)

Number of Homes Sold 26 19 Average Sold Price $684,890 $699,105 Average Days on Market 35 42 Above Asking Price 7 6 Below Asking Price 16 11 Sold Over $1 Million 4 4

Number of Homes Sold 9 4 Average Sold Price $450,278 $425,000 Average Days on Market 32 3 Above Asking Price 3 1 Below Asking Price 4 2 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 17 17 Average Sold Price $635,912 $564,263 Average Days on Market 39 33 Above Asking Price 5 3 Below Asking Price 9 11 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

20901 (Silver Spring)

20904 (Silver Spring)

20912 (Silver Spring/Takoma Park)

Number of Homes Sold 24 40 Average Sold Price $498,956 $489,718 Average Days on Market 27 23 Above Asking Price 7 20 Below Asking Price 12 16 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 26 25 Average Sold Price $477,965 $490,182 Average Days on Market 39 36 Above Asking Price 9 6 Below Asking Price 12 16 Sold Over $1 Million 0 0

Number of Homes Sold 11 11 Average Sold Price $504,318 $662,355 Average Days on Market 11 71 Above Asking Price 7 4 Below Asking Price 2 5 Sold Over $1 Million 0 1

Information courtesy of Bright MLS, as of Sept. 17, 2018. The Bright MLS real estate service area spans 40,000 square miles throughout the mid-Atlantic region, including Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. As a leading Multiple Listing Service (MLS), Bright serves approximately 85,000 real estate professionals who in turn serve more than 20 million consumers. For more information, visit brightmls.com. Note: This information includes the most expensive detached single-family homes sold from Aug. 1, 2018, to Aug. 31, 2018, as of Sept. 17, 2018, excluding sales where sellers have withheld permission to advertise or promote. Information should be independently verified. Reports reference data provided by ShowingTime, a showing management and market stats technology provider to the residential real estate industry. Some sale and list prices have been rounded.

WE’LL GIVE YOUR CLIENTS’ PLANS ROOM TO GROW. We finance big dreams, but we also pay attention to the finest details along the way. Our jumbo mortgage products offer eligible affluent clients competitive pricing and our Home Lending Advisors offer personalized help every step of the way.

• A mortgage of up to $3 million1 • Financing up to 85% of a home’s value2 (higher LTVs available in certain instances) • Fixed and adjustable rates Contact me today about working together to help your clients: Deb Levy, Sr Home Lending Advisor T: 301-332-7758 deb.levy@chase.com http://homeloan.chase.com/deb.levy NMLS ID: 481255

Loan amounts up to $1 million on investment property.

2 Loans up to 85% of a home’s value are available on a purchase or refinance with no cash back, subject to property type, a required minimum credit score and a minimum amount of monthly reserves (i.e., you must set aside enough money in reserve to make a specified number of monthly mortgage payments [principal, interest, taxes and insurance] after the loan closes).

For real estate and lending professionals only and not for distribution to consumers. This document is not an advertisement for consumer credit as defined in 12 CFR 1026.2(a).

For the Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) product, interest is fixed for a set period of time, and adjusts periodically thereafter. At the end of the fixed-rate period, the interest and payments may increase. The APR may increase after the loan consummation.

All home lending products are subject to credit and property approval. Rates, program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Not all products are available in all states or for all amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. Home lending products offered by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ©2018 JPMorgan Chase & Co. IC18-524 80964BE_0518 1

CMC-AD-80964BE | CMCDWNORD37820417CMCDWNORD37820417

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

SHOWCASE KITCHEN & BATH

15745 Crabbs Branch Way, Derwood, MD 20855 301-762-6621 | www.housetohomesolutions.com Before

BIO

HOUSE TO HOME SOLUTIONS Envision ◆ Design ◆ Renovate. House to Home Solutions specializes in luxury home renovations. The team focuses on deeply understanding their customers’ vision and translating that vision into highly functional and aesthetically pleasing outcomes. Each part of their streamlined process, from conception through completion, is designed to provide an overwhelmingly positive customer experience.

This project fully embraced our company name. Located on over a half acre overlooking the Potomac River, this home needed complete renovations to modernize the space and incorporate the homeowners’ vision, which included a kitchen addition and expanded family room, three full- and two half-bathroom remodels, garage and master suite additions topped with high-end finishes and fixtures.

Particularly in the kitchen, the homeowner wanted an unobstructed view along with ease and accessibility to both the family and the formal dining spaces. We removed two walls to open both rooms and created a kitchen bar peninsula as the only separation between the kitchen and formal dining room. On a third wall, we built a kitchen addition to allow for additional cabinetry and updated appliances. By replacing all windows & doors as well as encapsulating the exterior provided better energy efficiency. By raising the kitchen ceiling it created a more open and breathtaking experience.

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COURTESY PHOTOS

THE PROJECT:

S HO WCAS E

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KITCHEN & BATH

12223 Nebel St., Rockville, MD 20852 240-595-6732 | www.BeautifulRosenKitchens.com

BIO

JACK ROSEN CUSTOM KITCHENS, INC. Celebrating over 35 years in business, Jack Rosen Custom Kitchens continues to be one of the most renowned kitchen design firms in the Washington, D.C. area. Offering award-winning designs and fine cabinetry for culinary, closets, home offices and entertainment with outstanding service. Visit our showroom today!

COURTESY PHOTOS

OUR WORK: Jack Rosen Custom Kitchens is widely recognized for creating captivating home environments. The kitchen pictured at the top is an ideal example of very prevalent trends towards “transitional” kitchens. The pizza oven and restored tree base off the central island offer visual focal points that enhance the overall natural feel of the space. The photo at the left shows sleek custom cabinetry to keep everything in its place and maximize storage throughout the space. As well, the custom design includes a built-in wine rack and temperature-controlled refrigerator with ice maker—perfect for entertaining! Jack Rosen Custom Kitchens believes every award-winning design should be laid out beautifully, but should also serve as a central space that can function easily.

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SHOWCASE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KITCHEN & BATH

8935 Brookville Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-320-8735 | aidandesign.com

BIO

AIDAN DESIGN Nadia Subaran, co-owner and co-founder of Aidan Design, is passionate about the challenges and merits of good design. “Form follows function” is an enduring and guiding inspiration in all of Aidan Design’s work.

Creating thoughtful living spaces that reflect the character and lifestyle of each client, while being organized and balanced, is the goal of each project.

Aidan Design specializes in kitchens, bathrooms, butler’s pantries, mudrooms, built-ins, fireplace surrounds and other custom cabinetry applications. In addition to full-project design, Aidan Design also offers flat-fee design services that allow clients to benefit from professional design while selecting finishes that fit their budgets, schedules and personal preferences.

In the custom kitchen design industry for more than 20 years, Nadia, who holds a Bachelor of Architecture from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in NYC, promotes a collaborative experience among homeowners, builders and design professionals.

Over the years, Nadia and her team have shared their talents with the local community by working with Martha’s Table and A Wider Circle, and participating in four DC Design Houses benefiting Children’s National. Nadia also enjoys teaching, including for a Junior Achievement Program, as a Girl Scout Troop Leader, and as an adjunct professor for George Washington University’s Interior Design Program.

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COURTESY PHOTOS

OUR WORK:

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KITCHEN & BATH

7550 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 130, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-657-3800 | www.konstsiematic.com

BIO

KONST SIEMATIC KONST is the exclusive source for SieMatic cabinetry in the Washington, D.C. area. Our flagship showroom features three distinct style collections—Pure, Classic and Urban—each with its own array of design elements and materials. You’ll also find appliances from such brands as Sub-Zero, Wolf, Gaggenau and Miele.

PHOTOS BY ANICE HOACHLANDER

OUR WORK: The owners of this Northwest DC condo wanted more elbowroom in their narrow galley kitchen. A space-conscious fix came with bringing down a wall—and the dreaded popcorn ceiling—to open up the kitchen to the adjacent double-height dining and living space and its balcony views.

The result: an efficient, roomier kitchen flooded with natural light. Matte white cabinetry and integrated appliances make the kitchen feel bigger, while the peninsula’s slim engineered quartz counter extends as a buffet into the dining area. Two white floating shelves pop against the gray glass backsplash and reflect the stainless details—including a boxy custom exhaust hood—that complete the clean, minimalist palette.

Just beyond the wall ovens, tall cabinets with convenient pullout storage up the capacity of the former closed-in pantry.

At the opposite end, a comfortable banquette—complete with drawer storage—boasts the best seat in the house.

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SHOWCASE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KITCHEN & BATH

435 A&B E. Diamond Ave. Gaithersburg, MD 20877 240-361-9331 | www.davidaskitchenandtiles.com

BIO

DAVIDA'S KITCHEN & TILES Davida has over 30 years of experience designing kitchens and baths in the D.C. area. She spent 10 years in the industry providing custom cabinetry then added 10 years of custom tile work to her repertoire. 2006 saw the creation of Davida’s Kitchen & Tiles. The new showroom followed where she continues to offer personalized designs to her clients.

OUR WORK:

COURTESY PHOTOS

Visit our award-winning showroom and you’ll discover why Davida’s projects have been featured in multiple publications. At Davida’s Kitchen & Tiles, we showcase a vast array of materials including custom cabinetry, the very finest selection of tiles in glass, ceramic, porcelain and stone, as well as exquisite granite, quartz and marble countertops. We pride ourselves on the attention to detail we bring to our designs and hope to exceed your expectations and transform your new kitchen or bathroom into a space that adds comfort, beauty, functionality and value to your home.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KITCHEN & BATH

7550 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 120, Bethesda, MD 20814 301-657-5000 | www.CARNEMARK.com

BIO

CARNEMARK DESIGN+BUILD A veteran business of Bethesda, CARNEMARK design + build has brought masterful ingenuity to residential remodeling for more than 30 years, solving design issues creatively while earning a myriad of industry awards along the way. Our experienced team provides a process tailored to clients, developing abstract ideas into clean, methodic designs and carefully constructed craftsmanship.

PHOTOS BY ANICE HOACHLANDER

OUR WORK: When long-time clients came back after the homeowner was diagnosed with an illness that would limit mobility and ultimately lead to a wheelchair, accessibility was his top priority. In the couple's master bath, a right-angled quartz bench doubles as a secure entry into the ample soaking tub and a seat for an open shower with a flush linear drain. The rain shower and slip-resistant large-format tile sets a spa-like tone, with a thermostatic hand shower to ensure an easy, temperature-controlled rinse from any angle. Shallow-depth pine cabinetry topped with a quartz counter and thin extended basin make for easy seated use, with a lowered hand towel rack well within reach. A narrow partial wall—with a simple cutout for storage or display—separates the vanity from the self-sanitizing bidet-combo toilet, which enhances both care and comfort in personal cleansing. Throughout, sleek chrome grab bars look anything but institutional while providing needed stability from any position.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KITCHEN & BATH

7001 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-657-1636 | designnow@kitchen-bathstudios.com kitchenbathstudios.com

BIO

KITCHEN & BATH STUDIOS INC For over 25 years, Kitchen and Bath Studios has built a reputation for being the premier design center in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Our showroom features four custom cabinet lines that provide a vast selection of styles and finishes.

Contact us today and receive a free design layout with expert consultation from one of our six designers on staff.

OUR WORK:

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

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COURTESY PHOTOS

Kitchen and Bath Studios Inc.’s new front showroom display features Christiana Cabinetry in an eclectic blue stain with Caesarstone honed quartz countertop and Gaggenau appliances.

Visit our showroom today to view countless other styles and receive a free design consultation.

S HO WCAS E

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

KITCHEN & BATH

4524 Saul Road, Kensington, MD 20895 301-646-3606 | uptonarchitecture.com

BIO

UPTON ARCHITECTURE In 2009, after years of working at conventional architecture firms, followed by a sabbatical as a stayat-home mom, Margaret Gaughan Upton established Upton Architecture; a consortium of independent architects and interior designers who seek a balance between work and home. Operating from home-based offices throughout the D.C. area, Upton Architecture offers clients a full-service architectural practice with a smaller carbon footprint.

PHOTOS BY CHRIS ZIMMER

OUR WORK: Upton Architecture was tasked with renovating a nondescript bath within a beautiful heavy timber master suite. The original drywall partitions dividing the master bath from the bedroom concealed some of the heavy timber construction, blocked the skylight and narrowed the entry to the room. We provided a design to make the room feel more open, accentuate the heavy structural details and make the bathroom feel more integrated into the overall design. Rather than trying to match the timbers, we contrasted the wood structure with steel and used bolted connections to reflect the wooden pegs of the timber frame. The new design compliments the unique construction while giving the space a new level of sophistication.

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fitness. wellness. medicine.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

health

Dr. Ashley Moss started a pediatric practice to see patients at their homes rather than in an office. For more on doctors who make house calls, turn to page 258.

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health | BE WELL

FIGHTING THE ‘SUGAR BUGS’ A pediatric dentist on preventing cavities, helping with brushing, and getting anxious kids in the door

BY KATHLEEN SEILER NEARY | PHOTO BY LISA HELFERT

IN THE MIDDLE OF dinner with his family, Dr. Derek Blank, a pediatric dentist, sometimes tells his three young kids that they can pick a dessert—maybe a piece of chocolate or a scoop of ice cream—and eat it right away. “They’ll have that midway through their meal, and then I’ll have them finish the rest of their meal so the sugar from the dessert doesn’t stick on their teeth afterwards,” Blank says. “My friends very regularly make fun of me for feeding chocolate to a child and then making them eat apple slices afterwards.”

The 35-year-old Blank, who opened DC Pediatric Smiles in Bethesda in July 2017, knew when he was younger that he wanted to go into a medical field to help others. During high school and college, he interned in the summer at a cardiologists’ office in Ohio, but he later decided that being a dentist offered a better work-life balance. He graduated from Xavier University in Cincinnati and then attended dental school at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, where he completed a postgraduate fellowship in pediatric dentistry.

When he was setting up his own practice, Blank wanted to create a “nondental space,” and thought back to his childhood visits to the dentist. “Immediately when you got to the front door you just smelled dental office,” he says.

(After an appointment in second grade, he remembers saying to his mom, “Who 248

grows up and wants to be a dentist?”)

Blank avoids dental materials that smell bad and uses drills that aren’t very noisy.

He opted for a stylish beach-themed décor with surfboards on the walls, a kid-size picnic table with an umbrella and lots of blue tones throughout the office.

Blank’s patients range from a few months old—with concerns such as tongue ties and teething—through college age. He advises parents to bring in their babies before they turn 1, mainly to talk about brushing, pacifiers, thumbsucking and bumped teeth. New patients who are a little older are often anxious about going to the dentist, which can make the appointments “a bit of an unpredictable rodeo,” Blank says.

“Every day we have situations where maybe a patient’s previous dental experience has not gone well. The patient doesn’t want to get out of the car. Mom’s dragging them in,” he says. “We start at square one—maybe they get an office tour, they get a prize and then they go home. We schedule them to come back and we just build on that.”

Blank and his staff use kid-friendly terms to explain things to patients (they’ll call a cavity a “sugar bug”) and try to play up the fun stuff: sunglasses to wear during appointments, stickers and small toys to take home, and Netflix.

“We really focus on: What do you want to watch on TV?” he says. n

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

IN HIS OWN WORDS...

CAVITY PRONE “Kids’ teeth have a really thin layer of enamel compared to our adult teeth, so typically the baby teeth are a lot more susceptible to getting a cavity. And then when a cavity forms, it can grow really quickly. Maybe in our adult teeth it can take months, several years, for a cavity to really develop into something that requires treatment. For kids, that can be something that in a matter of weeks can develop and become problematic.”

TOO MUCH SUGAR “The quantity of sugar consumed is not the biggest thing we’re concerned about. It’s really more the amount of time that a tooth is exposed to the sugars in your foods.

You could take a 2-liter of soda, chug it all at once, and brush your teeth afterwards. Although from a nutrition standpoint that’s not healthy, tooth-wise that’s not as big of a deal as if you take a Dixie cup of soda or even apple juice and just sip it, one sip every three minutes throughout the morning. It’s just constantly bathing your teeth in this acidic environment that’s super conducive for bacteria to form, which causes cavities.”

IT TAKES TWO

THE WORRIERS

NATURE OR NURTURE?

“We recommend that parents help out with brushing up until the ages of 8 to 10, which a lot of parents are surprised to hear. A lot of very well-intentioned parents come in with a 2-year-old and might say, yeah, Lola’s doing a really great job brushing. Unfortunately, Lola might brush the front teeth great, but where cavities typically form in the back, she may have missed that for the past month.”

“Some patients do so much better when they’re not with their parent. We can see the little cues for that, and in a really tactful way communicate that to the parents. Sometimes it’s not easy to say to them: A lot of times parents will subconsciously transfer their dental anxieties to the patient. Although it can be kind of an awkward conversation to have, two minutes later the parent is like, Oh my gosh, thank you so much, she’s doing so much better.”

“There’s a significant hereditary component to why certain kids get cavities and other kids don’t. I emphasize the prevention things we can control—fluoride toothpaste, diet, visiting the dentist every six months. We see it most clearly in twins or siblings. The child that is so diligent in brushing and has a great diet will end up getting cavities, and the child who goes to bed with M&M’s in their bed doesn’t get any cavities. From an anecdotal perspective, we do see that more frequently than we’d like. My only personal explanation for that is probably that unknown hereditary genetic component, which is definitely real.”

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health

r o F

Melitta

Laurence Carter lost his wife to cervical cancer three years ago. Now the British-born Bethesda resident is walking 3,500 miles along the coast of England and Wales to raise awareness about the disease that took her life.

DAY 64. LAURENCE CARTER is in Falmouth, a small town in the southwest of England. He’s in the kitchen of a cottage he’s renting with 11 friends, one of whom is frying black pudding. The traditional English blood sausage might make a finicky Yank cringe, but Carter, a Brit, loves it. Then again, most anything would probably please the Bethesda resident’s taste buds at the moment. He’s hungry. He’s walked 766 miles to get here.

Carter, 58, is walking around the coast of England and Wales, a 3,500-mile trek that will take him about 365 days to complete. Today’s leg, on yet another uncharacteristically lovely August day in the United Kingdom, was only about 9 miles. Tomorrow’s will be closer to 17.

He doesn’t always walk alone. He’s been joined by family and close friends, acquaintances and strangers. “It’s been very sociable,” Carter says with classic 250

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British understatement. “The whole thing is like an extended wedding.”

That his bride, the woman who inspired this bloody crazy idea, can’t join him has only hardened his resolve. Melitta Carter died of cervical cancer in 2015 at the age of 53. Now, her husband is determined to help destroy the disease that took his wife. In the months after Melitta’s death, as his grief slowly subsided, Carter resolved to do something to both honor his wife and enrich the lives of others.

“I was out walking the dogs and I just had the idea: What about walking around the U.K.?” says Carter, who had hoped to retire with Melitta to a small village in the English countryside. “I Googled it and I decided that I had to rule out Scotland—it was just too far. I decided on England and Wales. The next day I went to work and asked my boss. She went all misty-eyed and said, ‘What a fantastic idea.’ ”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURENCE CARTER

BY MIKE UNGER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURENCE CARTER

Michael at the opening of the current show at Adventure Theatre

Laurence Carter in East Sussex, England, on Day One of his trek

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Middle: A family photo from New York in 2001 Bottom: Melitta (second from right) with Laurence and friends from Hope Connections for Cancer Support in 2013

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IN JUNE 1987, a British man working for an engineering company in Malawi walked into the Ministry of Agriculture looking for some data. There, he found a young British woman with “a beautiful smile and strong views.” Melitta was working in the African country as part of Voluntary Service Overseas, in many ways the British equivalent of the Peace Corps. Later that week they played tennis, and shortly thereafter they climbed a mountain together.

“She was talking about the flora and fauna,” Carter recalls. “I’d never met someone like that.”

Though they shared the same nationality, they’d had very different upbringings.

Carter’s father was a teacher in Tanzania, so he spent the first decade of his life in Africa. Melitta grew up in London, the middle of three sisters. Her family lived in a fourth-floor flat in a large Georgian house just a 10-minute walk from Kensington Gardens, where Melitta passed many hours. When she was 7 or 8, her

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURENCE CARTER

Top: Georgie, Melitta, Nic and Laurence Carter at Bryce Canyon National Park in April 2015

So he walks, bringing attention to the importance of cervical screenings for women and raising money for Cancer Research UK, a charity that studies the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the disease. “My message is that cervical cancer is the first cancer that we can eliminate from the face of the Earth within a generation,” he says. “We eradicated smallpox, there are several other diseases, like polio, that are almost gone, but no cancer is. This particular cancer is one that can be eliminated.”

Carter often thinks of Melitta as he walks. Not of her death, but of her life.

He takes note of certain plants he sees, knowing that nature was close to her heart.

Once, as he was gazing out to sea, he heard a curious wailing song being carried on the wind. “It was most eerie,” he says. “I looked more closely at a rock about 400 yards away and saw that there were many seals on it.”

Melitta would love this, he thought.

mother allowed her to get a window box, and she enjoyed growing and nurturing plants and flowers.

She studied agricultural economics at Aberystwyth University in West Wales, where she spent a year working on a sheep farm before moving to Malawi.

There, she began a globe-trotting romance with Carter, and when he got a job on St. Helena, a tropical island in the South Atlantic Ocean where Napoleon was exiled, Melitta decided to join him. He proposed in a restaurant on the island in January 1989, and she said yes.

Their first child, Emily, was born on St. Helena. The family moved to Botswana before settling in Swaziland, where their

threatening the Amazon. A passionate advocate for the environment, she started a neighborhood cleanup on Earth Day, a tradition that lives on to this day.

“She would call every plant and type of bird by its Greek or Latin name,” says Marta Moersen, a neighborhood friend.

“I can still hear her beautiful voice in her proper British accent naming some of my favorite flowers.”

Melitta always prioritized her family.

“She was the person I spent all my time with,” says Georgie, now 22, who attends graduate school in England. “We would go to the mall together, I would go to Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s with her.

She was an amazing cook. She had this

me down on the bed and told me what was going on. I don’t think it registered.

She said she was having a hysterectomy because they found a few cancer cells in her lymph nodes, and they’re going to take them out and it will be fine. So I didn’t really think it was that big of a deal at the time. I went back to studying for my physics test.”

CERVICAL CANCER IS AT once a particularly preventable and particularly deadly disease. It occurs most frequently in women between the ages of 35 and 44, and as recently as the 1940s it was a major cause of death among women of childbearing age in the United States,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURENCE CARTER

“I was out walking the dogs and I just had the idea: What about walking around the U.K.?” Carter says. son, Nic, was born. Through the years, the Carters met many Americans working for the Peace Corps or USAID, and they thought it might be interesting to “see what they’re like in their own country,” as Melitta put it. So when Carter got a job offer in 1993 from the International Finance Corp., the private sector arm of the World Bank, they packed their bags again.

After years of wanderlust, Bethesda became home. They moved into a house in Wildwood Manor, and daughter Georgie arrived in 1996. “Sometimes in life you’re really lucky,” Carter says. “We were really lucky to live on this street where there were four families all with kids about the same age. …It was a paradise for the kids and the parents, as well.”

Melitta didn’t work, but she had a frenetic schedule. She founded a book club. She took courses on photography.

She volunteered at the National Zoo, where she educated visitors about issues

little recipe book that she started when she was 12. It’s called People Enjoy Melitta’s Finer Flavour.” Macaroni and cheese was the kids’ favorite. Melitta’s version included chopped onions and bacon, along with her special ingredient: mustard powder. She baked elaborate birthday cakes, including a Powerpuff Girls creation that had upside-down ice cream cones for castle towers.

“We didn’t really have disagreements or arguments, ever,” Georgie says. “I guess you could say she was kind of like my best friend.”

Which is perhaps why, when Melitta told her one evening in October 2012 that her gynecologist had diagnosed her with cervical cancer—the severity of which was unknown at the time—Georgie, then 16, wasn’t too worried. Her mother seemed invincible.

“I had a physics test the next day I was really stressed about, so I was in my room studying,” Georgie recalls. “She sat

according to the National Institutes of Health. However, with the introduction in the 1950s of the Pap smear, incidences declined drastically. Between 1955 and 1992, U.S. cervical cancer deaths fell by more than 60 percent.

“That’s how you cure this—by preventing it,” says Dr. Paul Thambi, Melitta’s Bethesda-based oncologist.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Seventy-nine million Americans have HPV, but in most cases it goes away on its own and does not lead to any health problems. When it doesn’t go away, it can cause several kinds of cancers, including in the cervix.

Fortunately, there’s an HPV vaccine that can be administered to boys and girls before they’re sexually active (the CDC recommends kids get it at age 11 or 12). It’s been widely used in Australia,

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Carter passed through the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs on the first day of his 3,500-mile walk.

“We lived in separate continents for over 30 years, and so we saw one another maybe once a year, but in the last few years we had daily contact via texts,” says Alevropoulos, who joined Carter on the first day of his walk this past June.

“We shared the small, seemingly boring details of our lives. What we had for breakfast, what the weather was like. I very much miss that daily contact.”

A month after returning from a family vacation in April 2015, Melitta stopped cancer treatments. “As it became clear that she was going to die, I think that she wanted to just be with the family and friends,” Carter says. “Two or three

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weeks before she died, we went to a field near the Potomac River along River Road and she was photographing the sunflowers with the kids and me. That combination of the natural world and photography, and being with the family, that was perfect for her.”

In her final days, Melitta liked to sit at home on a sofa that faces the garden where her son, Nic, had built a pond. “It was a classic project because she found this location, I dug out a 3-foot-deep hole, and then she changed her mind,” Nic says. “So we turned that one into a flower bed and I dug out another pond, which we filled with lilies and goldfish.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAURENCE CARTER

where HPV rates have fallen by 90 percent over the past decade.

Experts say a two-pronged approach— increasing HPV vaccinations and ensuring that women get regular Pap smears—is the formula for reducing the nearly 300,000 annual deaths worldwide from cervical cancer. “Most cervical cancer is very treatable because it’s usually caught at an early stage,” Thambi says. “Before it becomes cervical cancer you can see what are called dysplastic cells, and that can be treated locally without having to remove the entire cervix. The issue becomes when it’s metastatic, when it’s spread to other organs like the liver and the lungs. Then it’s not curable.”

When Melitta’s cancer was discovered, following a Pap smear she’d been late in scheduling, the hope was that an emergency hysterectomy performed days later would solve the problem.

But she found out in July 2013 that the cancer had spread, and called her husband—who was in East Timor on business—to tell him. Bad news, she said. They’d discovered a nodule in her lungs. It had metastasized.

Carter put down the phone and cried—for his wife, for their children, and for himself. “There are a few moments in your life you never forget,” he says. “That was one.”

Doctors gave Melitta 12 to 18 months to live. “The first six or seven months, the situation wasn’t very good,” Carter says. “The chemo was very tough for her to get through. At the same time, they were doing the radiation. The secondary effects were bad on other parts of her body. The following summer she was back in the hospital, but in between her quality of life wasn’t too bad.”

Melitta got involved with Hope Connections for Cancer Support in Bethesda, where she did yoga, took art classes, and participated in support groups. She started communicating more often with her younger sister, Tanya Alevropoulos, who lives in England.

It’s still there and doing great. I look at it and I’m reminded of her.”

Comforted by the family’s poodle, Cino, and Shih Tzu, Ella, Melitta was at peace. “My sister was in New York, but had been coming every weekend during that summer,” Georgie says. “The day before she died, she was calling out for Emily. Emily came the next day, and she passed away when we were all with her.

She was waiting, basically, for us all to be together.”

Top: Carter in East Sussex, the starting (and ending) point for the walk, which he chose because his mother, Barbara, lives there.

Pictured from left to right: Laura Holland from Cancer Research UK; Tanya Alevropoulos, Melitta’s younger sister; Julian Borrill, Tanya’s husband; Laurence’s mother, Barbara Carter (seated); friends Margaret and Alan Miller; Carter; Jo Marriott of Cancer Research UK.

CARTER IS, BY NATURE, a pint-halffull kind of guy.

“Way too optimistic for his own good,” Georgie says. She can’t believe he’s walking 3,500 miles. “What he’s doing at the moment is completely crazy. No sane person would put themselves through that. If my mom were alive right now, she would call him an idiot.” (In good fun, of course.)

Left: A selfie of Carter in East Portlemouth on July 31

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health Carter’s bosses at the World Bank loved the idea, however, and after he’d spent a year or so planning the trip, they granted him a sabbatical. He bought a van to sleep in when he doesn’t have an Airbnb or an invite from a friend, created a website (3500toendit.com) to track his progress and raise awareness, and asked Emily, a health consultant for a communications and marketing agency, to make a video on the fight against cervical cancer. Through midSeptember, it had more than 223,000 views on YouTube.

“He has a way of coming up with an idea that seems radical or unimaginable and then just doing it,” says Emily, 28. “Last summer we decided to run a marathon together, and it was the same thing. I am not a runner at all, but every single weekend he would drive up to New York for the day and make me go on a run. We ran the New York City Marathon together.”

On Day One of Carter’s trip—June 16—he walked 14.1 miles in 4 hours and 43 minutes. The weather was perfect. But not every walk has been easy.

He’s worn through at least one pair of shoes, so he bought walking trainers from Mountain Warehouse (a British version of REI) that are guaranteed to last at least 5,000 miles. He’ll put that warranty to the test.

Aside from a few blisters, Carter is in perfect health. He hasn’t even lost any weight. (At the end of a long day’s walk, he says, nothing beats a beer or two.) As of mid-August, he’d raised more than $30,000 from those closest to him and from strangers around the world. He’ll keep going until June, in memory of the woman he loved and with the hope that someday no more spouses will lose a wife, no more children will lose a mother, to cervical cancer. He’s walked from Selsey to Chichester, from Totton to Calshot, from East Portlemouth to Kingsbridge.

Tomorrow it’s on to Truro. n Mike Unger is a writer and editor who grew up in Montgomery County and lives in Baltimore.

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The Doctor’s Here Some local physicians don’t have an office— they spend their days making house calls

BY MICHAEL S. GERBER | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL VENTURA

A

ANNE HAYES SAT IN her car sobbing. She’d just arrived at a doctor’s appointment for her 1-year-old twins, Vivian and Audrey, both of whom were born several weeks early and had spent more than three months in the neonatal intensive care unit. Audrey, who weighed just under 2½ pounds at birth, still required a feeding tube and had to eat on a strict schedule. So before heading inside to see the doctor, Hayes had connected a syringe to the tube and prepared to squeeze the baby formula into her tiny daughter’s stomach. But the tube became dislodged and the formula spilled everywhere.

Hayes remembers breaking down, overwhelmed by the stresses of managing her children’s medical problems and the logistics of taking three young children to an appointment. Her 3-year-old son, Ryan, who had endured several surgeries to repair a congenital heart defect, was old enough to be concerned but too young to be much help. She still hadn’t gotten out of her car.

The twins were crying.

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“It was a low moment,” Hayes says.

A little more than a year later, Ryan is jumping up and down on the couch, displaying energy typical of a 4-year-old who’s cooped up at home with his mom and sisters on a rainy morning. He flops down on his back and lifts his shirt, exposing a scar down the center of his chest.

“Can you measure my heart? Can you check it?” he asks the family’s pediatrician, Dr. Ashley Moss, who has come to their house in Chevy Chase to check on him and his sisters. Moss has built her entire practice around seeing patients in their homes. Before meeting her, Hayes didn’t know such a practice existed, and she thinks it’s saved the family countless trips to doctors’ offices, urgent care centers and the emergency room.

In the living room, Moss examines Audrey’s ears while Vivian plays with one of her toys on the floor nearby. Ryan runs to another room, returning a minute later with a pretend stethoscope in his hand.

“Can I help you, Dr. Moss?” he asks.

Michael at the opening of the current show at Adventure Theatre

Ashley Moss, a pediatrician, opened her own house call practice in January 2017.

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Moss visits Ryan Hayes and his twin sisters, Audrey and Vivian, whenever they’re sick or due for a checkup.

JUST OVER A MILE from the Hayeses’ house, Moss has a desk in the small home office she shares with her husband, David, an orthopedic surgeon she met when they were both undergraduates at Princeton University in New Jersey.

But she doesn’t have any exam rooms or staff, and most of her work is done on the road: in her car between appointments, at kitchen tables and on families’ couches, even in another doctor’s office.

She sometimes joins patients when they go to see a specialist—she once accompanied Hayes on a visit to Audrey’s gastroenterologist to make sure everyone was on the same page.

Moss, 42, opened her practice in January 2017, after nearly nine years with Potomac Pediatrics in Rockville. The mother of three children—now ages 6, 8 and 11—she was looking for a way to have more flexibility in her schedule but also to spend more time with each of her 260

Moss has built her entire practice around seeing patients in their homes. patients and their families. Initially she thought she’d open her own office-based practice, but after speaking with a few pediatricians in Dallas and Atlanta who were traveling to patients’ homes, she decided to try the model herself.

“It’s been even more rewarding than I could’ve imagined, being able to deliver the kind of care that I wanted to,” she says.

Many families are willing to pay extra to see Moss, knowing they can get her on the phone when they need afterhours care—and that if necessary, she’ll come to their home—rather than dealing with a doctor’s answering service.

Hillary Wilner, a Chevy Chase mother whose sons are 2 and 4, likes that she can get more work done while waiting for

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Moss to come to her, rather than having to take half a day off to bring her kids to the doctor. “I felt I was spending so much time at the [pediatrician’s] office,” says Wilner, whose children have been Moss’ patients for about two years. “As a mother, it’s tough to make an appointment, take a sick child out of the comfort of their home, and take them and their sibling into a doctor’s office. Additionally, having her come to the house for well-child checks eliminates exposing my children to sick, contagious children.”

Moss is among a small but growing number of medical providers who see patients in their homes, and one of the few pediatricians in Montgomery County doing it. A number of factors are

contributing to the popularity of house call practices, including more access to the physician, longer visits and the convenience of not having to find parking or having to sit in a waiting room. Before starting her own practice, Moss says she saw 20 to 26 patients during a typical day in the office. Now, a busy day for her means seeing five children, and she often spends more time with each patient than the 15 to 20 minutes she was usually allotted for appointments in the past.

Most house call practices focus on treating elderly patients who have a difficult time getting to office or hospital appointments, says Dr. K. Eric De Jonge, president of the American Academy of Home Care Medicine. For those patients—and the organizations that pay for their care, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services—avoiding steep medical transportation and hospitalization bills makes the cost of home visits worth the investment, both in terms of receiving better care and reducing health care expenses.

But convenience and cost savings aren’t the only reasons home-based care is popular, De Jonge says. “The more powerful benefit, both to the providers and the patients, is the closeness of the doctor-patient relationship and the trust and knowledge you acquire by seeing patients in the home.”

Home visits give doctors the opportunity to see certain aspects of patients’ lives with their own eyes. They might recognize hazards such as loose rugs or cords that can increase the risk of tripping and falling. Performing a “kitchen biopsy,” as De Jonge calls it, can reveal an abundance of high-sodium foods in the home of a patient who has congestive heart failure. A physician could notice that a patient has prescription bottles for six blood pressure drugs from three different doctors, which can lead to lifesaving changes in medication routines.

For Moss, it’s helpful to experience a child’s home environment and gain firsthand knowledge of the family situation.

Above: Dr. Ernest Brown, a family medicine physician, founded Doctors to You in 2015. He only sees patients in out-ofoffice settings.

Left: Moss carries all of her equipment in her SUV—including vaccines that are kept in a temperature-controlled container. She sees patients who live within 10 miles of her Chevy Chase home.

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health “You can do more in that one visit in a house call than you can in years” of seeing a patient in the office, Brown says.

She gets to meet any pets in the home, and even check on a child’s sleeping arrangements. “We ask [about] all these things in the office,” she says, “but being able to see it, and being there, is tremendous.”

IN A POSH TOWNHOUSE near D.C.’s Dupont Circle, Dr. Ernest Brown asks a home health aide to show him how she puts a compression wrap on the arm of a woman in her 90s who’s had pain and swelling. Wearing his trademark scrubs and matching blue sneakers, Brown watches and provides tips along the way. He makes sure the aide understands which creams to apply first and how to Velcro the wrap properly.

Brown has demonstrated the procedure for other aides in this same house on this same patient, he says. He’s even recorded a video that they can use to learn the correct technique. Even so, the aides—many of whom have minimal training—often misapply the wrap. In an era when a physician might never have any interaction with the caregivers actually tending to a patient’s needs, Brown’s house call practice allows him to ensure that everyone understands and follows the care plan.

“You can do more in that one visit in a house call than you can in years” of seeing a patient in the office, says Brown, a family medicine physician and the founder of Doctors to You, a Washington, D.C.-area practice that only sees patients in out-of-office settings.

Brown, 50, grew up in the District and Maryland, and now lives in Chevy Chase near Friendship Heights. He had a few years of experience working in biotech research before starting medical school at Howard University with plans 262

to specialize in emergency medicine. But during his third year of medical school he spent time shadowing George Taler, a physician who, along with De Jonge, cofounded MedStar Washington Hospital Center’s house call program. That experience led Brown down a different path. He completed residency training in family medicine and later did house calls while working for a nonprofit program until its funding ran out. In 2015, he created Doctors to You. Although he has previous experience with startup companies, Brown calls Doctors to You a “movement,” not a business. He hesitates to get into the details of the payment structure for his patients, wanting to focus instead on how health care is failing people.

“Once you start to put a price tag, then you’re commoditizing it,” Brown says. A typical consultation and followup is likely to start at around $200, but he emphasizes that each case is different.

Moss says every family she works with pays an annual fee ranging from about $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the services provided, along with additional fees per visit. Several families say the annual fee is reasonable, considering how accessible she is, whether they have a quick question over the phone or need a late-night visit when the kids have the flu. Moss submits bills to patients’ insurance companies, which often cover a portion of the costs. While insurance coverage varies, she estimates that most patients pay slightly more than they would for an office or urgent care visit.

The elimination of many overhead expenses helps balance the cost of traveling, says Moss, who is licensed in Maryland, D.C. and Virginia, and sees patients within a 10-mile radius of her

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Chevy Chase home. She doesn’t have to pay rent for office space, and because she wants to keep her practice small, she’s the only employee. She administers vaccines, draws blood if necessary, completes electronic medical records and manages her calendar. “I’m the physician, obviously, and the nurse, the scheduler, and the biller,” she says.

Moss and Brown both manage much of their practices from their cars, which serve as mobile offices. On the way to an appointment, Brown joins a conference call with a patient’s family and dictates texts to a colleague, letting him know that he’ll take care of a prescription for a foreign diplomat who injured her leg. In addition to home visits, Brown and his staff—which includes a physician’s assistant, a nurse practitioner and other part-time providers—often see patients at embassies and hotels. They recently started contracting with employers, including a law firm in D.C., to be available on the phone or in the office for employees.

Moss uses the time she spends in her Toyota Highlander to catch up on calls or think about her next patient and what she’ll need to do when she arrives. Her equipment bag, which has multiple zippers and pockets, and looks more like it belongs to an athlete than a doctor, contains everything she needs for an exam: a stethoscope, otoscope, blood pressure cuff and other basic equipment.

In addition, she carries epinephrine and syringes in case a child has an allergic reaction to a vaccine she administers.

She stores the vaccines in a temperaturecontrolled container in her vehicle and uses a wireless monitor that sends her a text message if the container gets too hot or too cold.

While much of the equipment Moss carries resembles the tools of house call physicians half a century ago, other technological advancements have expanded what she can offer in a family’s home. She has a small device that allows her to check a child’s hearing. Using an app called GoCheck Kids and her iPhone camera, she can screen her patients for certain

FAMILY LAW visual disorders, such as nearsightedness or farsightedness, even when they are too young for a visual acuity test.

“With the technology we have, we can be more mobile and we can be more flexible. If you use it in the right way, it can be beneficial for patients,” Moss says.

At the same time, she adds, it’s the inperson interactions that matter most to her. She doesn’t use video conferences or rely on apps that transmit a patient’s vital signs or other medical information remotely. “I think people want to have a relationship with their physician. That’s an important part of preventive care.”

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BROWN RARELY TAKES a day off Alimony | Divorce | Child Custody | Mediation | Prenups | Separation and even jokes with the security guard in his apartment building about wearing the blue scrubs every day. He says Direct 240.553.1194 he doesn’t earn as much as most of his Rockville 240.399.7900 former medical school classmates, but jgllaw.com Greenbelt 301.220.2200 he’s just as happy living in a 700-squarefoot apartment and driving a hybrid SUV. The vehicle was donated to him JGL_11420_Bethesda Magazine.indd 1 5/23/18 11:43 AM a decade ago by members of an orgaIn an uncertain world, nization that was supporting the home NFP | The Meltzer Group visits he was making in underserved provides something that neighborhoods. Brown, who is single, says his main commitment outside of is difficult to come by: work is his 16-year-old son. “I had to peace of mind. find the right path for me, and that path is not in health care—it’s in medicine,” Whether it is individual says Brown, who feels that the business life insurance, estate side of health care has made it harder planning, property and for doctors to provide high-quality care.

Moss says what she does is not for casualty insurance, an every physician or every patient. Instead employee benefits of having a rotating call schedule that package or retirement gives her most nights and weekends off, plan services for your she’s often answering calls from worried business, NFP | parents at all hours. Over the summer, a The Meltzer Group mother whose son developed swimmer’s ear while on vacation called to make sure has got you covered. the boy had received the right medication from a local urgent care. (Moss said Contact us today. he hadn’t.) More typically, calls come from parents concerned about a child’s 301-581-7300 fever, rash or sore throat. Moss occanfp.meltzer.com sionally takes a vacation and has another pediatrician cover for her, but it’s rare enough that even her patients’ parents

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health think she should take more time off.

“My work life and my home life are now more intermeshed than they ever have been before, and sometimes that can be hard,” says Moss, who will run out to visit patients after her own kids have gone to sleep. She once went to check on Anne Hayes’ son, Ryan, when he was sick with a flu-like illness, and she was able to assess the boy without him ever getting out of bed.

Moss’ willingness to see children at those hours is a trade-off for generally being able to make her own schedule and not miss important events with her family. “It gives me tremendous flexibility and a lot of autonomy and ownership over what I’m doing,” she says.

FOR HAYES, TWO RECENT appointments illustrate why she hopes Moss will continue to see her children at home

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until they’re too old for a pediatrician.

During a visit to check on the twins, Moss needed to draw some blood from Audrey for routine lab tests. She inserted a needle into the young girl’s arm with ease but wasn’t able to get enough blood before Audrey’s tiny vein stopped cooperating. Instead of trying the arm again, Moss chose to get the remaining drop of blood she needed through a less invasive method.

“She did the finger prick on Audrey, and Audrey was actually helping her, squeezing her own hand,” Hayes says.

Weeks later, at a specialist’s office, a different physician ordered another lab test. “We got to the point where we had to wrap her in a sheet,” Hayes says, describing the scene as she and the technician who was drawing the blood tried to hold the frightened child still. Hayes had seen this contrast before: When she took Ryan

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DR. JASON A. COHEN

DR. ROY ESKOW

Jason A. Cohen, D.D.S.

5530 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 560 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-656-1201 www.cosmeticdds.com

Dental School: University of Maryland Dental School Expertise: Treating Your Family Like Family. Our practice focuses on General, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry. Our goal is to preserve, protect and enhance your dental health by creating a caring and gentle atmosphere where the level of treatment is second to none.

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to the doctor for a shot that helps prevent respiratory illnesses in children with certain conditions, he started to cry when they got to the office, she says. A year later, when Moss arrived to give Ryan the same injection, he was excited to see her and wasn’t nearly as upset.

“They don’t have bad memories of the things she does,” says Hayes, who credits both Moss and her practice model for how her kids behave during appointments. “It’s her manner. It’s being at home. It’s that she lets them help.

“I can’t think of a drawback,” Hayes adds. “The only thing…is when I have a messy house sometimes and the doctor is seeing it.” n

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Bethesda Dental Implant Center 5626 Shields Drive Bethesda, MD 20817 301-493-6200 www.bethesdadentalimplantcenter.com

Dental School: University of Maryland School of Dentistry Expertise: We provide state of the art periodontal therapy in a comfortable and caring environment. 30 years experience in dental implant surgery, periodontics, oral medicine, dental sleep apnea.

Paramount is building a quality relationship with each and every patient.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DENTIST

FINDER

Your Guide to Leading Dentists in the Bethesda Area

GENERAL DENTISTRY, COSMETIC DENTISTRY

ENDODONTICS, GENERAL DENTISTRY

DR. JOHN J. HIGGINS

DR. KATE NEMATOLLAHI

John J. Higgins, DDS PA 5648 Shields Drive Bethesda, MD 20817 301-530-8008 www.johnjhigginsdds.com

Dental School: Georgetown University Expertise: Provide patients with excellent care and health education in a contemporary and comfortable atmosphere

RENEW32

7201 Wisconsin Ave, Suite 310 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-986-0032 www.renew32.com

Dental Schools: Univ of Md. School of Dentistry and Univ of Michigan Expertise: I’ve been practicing dentistry for over 20 years and believe the way to achieve a healthy, radiant smile is through informative, relaxed and pampered visits. Our practice offers everything from routine cleanings to total smile makeovers.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY, GENERAL DENTISTRY

ORTHODONTICS

DR. STACIA M. KRANTZ

DR. ANDREW L. SCHWARTZ

Fallsgrove Center for Dentistry

Capitol Orthodontics

14955 Shady Grove Road, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20850 301-610-9909 www.fallsgrovedentistry.com

Dental School: University of Minnesota School of Dentistry Expertise: Dr. Krantz prides herself in treating her patients like family. Caring, compassionate, personalized treatment with over 20 years of experience in comprehensive family dentistry.

Offices in Rockville and Northwest DC 301.610.9909 (Rockville) 202.758.4746 (DC) www.capitolorthodontics.com

Dental School: University of Pennsylvania Expertise: One of the only American Board certified orthodontists in Mont Co and DC. Specializing in treatment of adults and children as discreetly as possible utilizing the most recent techniques.

No more GOOPY impressions thanks to our 3D scanners!!

COSMETIC DENTISTRY, GENERAL DENTISTRY

GENERAL DENTISTRY

DR. PATRICK A. MURRAY

DR. TODD WASSERMAN

Patrick A. Murray DDS PC

Fallsgrove Center for Dentistry

15200 Shady Grove Road, Suite 340 Rockville, MD 20850 301-330-4600 www.shadygrovedentalcare.com

Dental School: University of Maryland School of Dentistry Expertise: We provide a relaxing environment for your dental needs. Every patient is unique, and we are committed to providing you with high quality dental care based on your individual needs.

14955 Shady Grove Road, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20850 301-610-9909 www.fallsgrovedentistry.com

Dental School: Northwestern University Dental School Expertise: We treat your family like our own, committed to caring for your dental needs by providing you general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry. A contemporary and comfortable environment allows our patients to achieve their dental health and cosmetic dreams.

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health wellness

CALENDAR COMPILED BY SANDRA FLEISHMAN Nov. 22 TURKEY CHASE. The annual fundraiser for the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase and the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club draws about 9,000 runners—some in turkey hats or full-on turkey costumes—to its 10K, 2-mile, 1K and 50-meter races. 8:30 a.m. See website for details. YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase. give.turkeychase.com.

Nov. 24 TURKEY BURNOFF. Work off the holiday goodies with a run through Seneca Creek State Park. All runners must be in the park by 8:15 a.m. The 5-mile and 10-mile races begin at 8:30 a.m.; a 2.78K fun run begins at 8:35 a.m. $10; $5 younger than 18; free for members of Montgomery County Road Runners Club. Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg. mcrrc.org.

RUNNING/WALKING Nov. 4 ROCKVILLE 10K/5K. It’s the 43rd annual running of this challenging but scenic race through the King Farm neighborhood and along West Gude Drive. The 10K starts at 8:30 a.m., the 5K at 8:45, and a 1-mile fun run at 8:10. $35-$45 for 10K and 5K; $12 for fun run. King Farm Village Center, Rockville. rockville10k5k.com.

Nov. 11 CANDY CANE CITY 5K. The out-and-back course is on the Rock Creek Trail. 8 a.m. $10; $5 younger than 18; free for members of Montgomery County Road Runners Club. Race starts outside Ohr Kodesh Congregation, Chevy Chase. mcrrc.org.

Nov. 11 THE CHIARI GROUP RUNNING FOR RESEARCH 5K RUN/3K WALK. Proceeds benefit The Chiari Group, a nonprofit that’s raising money for research into pediatric Chiari malformation, a problem related to how the brain sits in the skull that can lead to chronic debilitating pain and may require

surgery. 9 a.m. $25-$45. Meadowbrook Park, Chevy Chase. thechiarigroup.org.

Nov. 11 FREEDOM IS NEVER FREE 5K/10K/HALFMILE. Proceeds benefit Operation Enduring Warrior, a nonprofit to honor, empower and motivate wounded military service members. See website for times and details.

Carderock Recreation Area, Potomac. bishopseventregistrations.com/event/2018freedom-is-never-free-5k-10khalf.

Nov. 17 STONE MILL 50 MILE. The race is along the Seneca Greenway and Muddy Branch trails. 6 a.m. $50.66. The start/finish is at Stedwick Elementary School, Montgomery Village. stone-mill-50-mile.org.

Nov. 17 RUN UNDER THE LIGHTS. This 5K run/walk goes through Gaithersburg’s Winter Lights Festival in Seneca Creek State Park. The Montgomery County Road Runners Club cosponsors the event with the city. 6:15-8 p.m.

See website for fees. Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg. mcrrcrununderlights.com.

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Dec. 2 SENECA SLOPES 9K. The cross-country run is roughly 5.5 miles. 10 a.m. $10; $5 younger than 18; free for members of Montgomery County Road Runners Club. Seneca Creek State Park, Gaithersburg. mcrrc.org.

Dec. 9 BREAD RUN 10K AND 2-MILE FUN RUN. The race started 38 years ago as a 10K, featuring fresh-baked loaves as prizes. 10 a.m. for 2-mile; 10:30 a.m. for 10K. Fee for the 10K is $10 or a loaf of home-baked bread; free for members of DC Road Runners Club. The fun run is free. Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo. dcroadrunners.org.

Dec. 9 JINGLE BELL JOG. The 8K race winds through a residential neighborhood. 9 a.m. $10; $5 younger than 18; free for members of Montgomery County Road Runners Club.

Rockville Senior Center, Rockville. mcrrc.org.

Dec. 31 RUNNING OUT OF TIME 5K/10K. Proceeds from this scenic run along the Potomac River benefit Dare2tri, a nonprofit that helps athletes with physical disabilities and visual impairments by developing their skills in paratriathlons. See website for fees; fees do not include $10 vehicle fee to enter the park. Great Falls Park, Potomac. bishopseventregistrations.com/event/2018running-out-of-time-5k--10k.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MCRRC, BY BRIAN BUTTERS

The Stone Mill 50 Mile will take runners along the Seneca Greenway and Muddy Branch trails on Nov. 17.

Capital Laser & Skin Care is one of the ONLY practices to offer the latest FDA cleared, non-invasive procedure for fat reduction on the upper arms.

• Internationally recognized experts

• First access to the upper arm technology • Clinical Advisors for the development of the • Treatments in our private, luxurious CoolSculpting suite CoolSculpting technology

*Photos property of Capital Laser & Skin Care.

Schedule a complimentary consultation: 301-798-9699 Non-Surgical Skin Tightening | Injectables Facial Rejuvenation | Laser Treatments

Elizabeth Tanzi, MD, Geeta Shah, MD & Tania Peters, MD 5471 C2 Wisconsin Ave Suite 200, Chevy Chase, MD 20815

w w w. c a p i t a l s k i n l a s e r. c o m

health

SCREENINGS/CLASSES/ WORKSHOPS Nov. 3 and Nov. 10 SAFE SITTER. The one-day baby-sitting class teaches 11- to 13-year-olds about child care safety, handling emergencies, first-aid techniques and more. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. $105. Nov. 3 class: Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, Bethesda.

Nov. 10: Suburban Hospital, Bethesda.

Registration required. 301-896-3939, suburbanhospital.org.

Nov. 4 GETTING READY FOR BABY: BABY FAIR. Talk to representatives from community organizations, service providers and Holy Cross Hospital nurses, childbirth educators and lactation specialists. Lectures, refreshments, prizes and demonstrations.

1-3 p.m. Free. Holy Cross Health Conference Center, Silver Spring. 301-754-7000, holycrosshealth.org.

Nov. 7 LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER. Women undergoing cancer treatments learn makeup techniques, wig care and other beauty tips.

3-5 p.m. Free. Shady Grove Adventist Aquilino Cancer Center, Rockville. 240-826-2273, adventisthealthcare.com.

Nov. 7-28 MANAGING ANGER: A PARENT’S GUIDE. Sponsored by the Parent Encouragement Program, a nonprofit educational organization. 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays. No class on Nov. 21. $98. Kensington Baptist Church, Kensington. Registration required.

301-929-8824, pepparent.org.

Nov. 8 and Dec. 4 HEALTHY COOKING SERIES. Suburban Hospital explores the “Tastes of Lebanon” on Nov. 8 and “Soup’s On!” on Dec. 4 in demonstrating how to cook healthy. The second session is on preparing heart-healthy vegetarian soups and stews using fresh ingredients. 6-8 p.m. $25 per class; $45 for series. Suburban Hospital, Bethesda.

Registration required. 301-896-3939, suburbanhospital.org.

Nov. 8 ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS SEMINAR. Gain a better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, including symptoms, diagnosis, progression, and coping strategies. 11 a.m.-noon. Free. Holy Cross Senior Source Center, Silver Spring. 301-7547000, holycrosshealth.org.

Nov. 14 SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR FIRST-TIME GRANDPARENTS. Instruction on infant and child CPR and choking rescue, plus a refresher on diapering, swaddling, feeding and soothing a baby. 6-9 p.m. $45 per person, $75 per couple. OASIS at Macy’s Home Store, Westfield Montgomery mall, Bethesda. 301-896-3939, events. suburbanhospital.org.

Nov. 15 HEALTHY EATING DURING THE HOLIDAYS. Registered dietitian Wendy Weisblatt discusses the basics of meal planning, how to optimize food choices and diet modifications to help deal with the holiday season. 1-2 p.m. Free. Rockville Senior Center, Rockville. Registration requested.

301-896-3939, events.suburbanhospital.org.

Nov. 27 A BABY? MAYBE? The lecture includes how to prepare for a healthy pregnancy; nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes; and budgeting for baby. 7-9 p.m. Free. Holy Cross Health Conference Center, Silver Spring. 301-7547000, holycrosshealth.org.

Nov. 27 PREVENTING A BRAIN ATTACK. Learn the warning signs of a stroke and when it’s appropriate to seek help. Neurologist Deidre Ammah reviews risk factors for stroke and discusses those that are modifiable through awareness, diet and exercise, and those that are inherited. 1-2 p.m. Free.

Holiday Park Senior Center, Wheaton.

Registration required. 301-896-3939, events. suburbanhospital.org.

Nov. 28 and Dec. 10 WINTER BLUES: BALANCING SORROW AND CELEBRATION WHILE GRIEVING. For those grieving the death of a loved one. 6:30-8 p.m.

Nov. 28; 1-2:30 p.m. Dec. 10. Free and open to those who live or work in Montgomery County. Montgomery Hospice, Rockville.

Registration required. 301-921-4400, montgomeryhospice.org.

Dec. 2 SAFE SITTER. For 11- to 14-year-olds, with information on child care safety, handling emergencies and first aid techniques. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $70. Holy Cross Resource Center, Silver Spring. 301-754-8800, holycrosshealth.org.

Dec. 4 BECOMING A FATHER. A three-hour class for expectant or new dads. Topics include basic baby care and keeping your baby safe, what it means to be a father, your role in the life of your child, and adjustments to life with a child. Babies welcome. 6:30-9:30 p.m. $30.

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Holy Cross Resource Center, Silver Spring.

301-754-8800, holycrosshealth.org.

Dec. 12 FIRE SAFETY AND PREVENTION. BethesdaChevy Chase Rescue Squad Fire/Rescue Deputy Chief Jim Resnick explains the importance of fire prevention and protection for seniors, especially during the holiday season. 1-2 p.m. Free. Friendship Heights Village Center, Chevy Chase. Registration requested. 301-896-3939, events. suburbanhospital.org.

Dec. 13 DIABETES COOKING CLASS. A cooking demonstration with samples, recipes, information and advice from a diabetes educator. 6-7 p.m. Free. Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center, Rockville.

Registration required. 800-542-5096, adventisthealthcare.com.

Dec. 27 GRANDPARENTS-TO-BE. Learn how to support new parents and about trends in infant care.

6:30-8:30 p.m. $15. Holy Cross Health Conference Center, Silver Spring. 301-7548800, holycrosshealth.org.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Support groups are free unless otherwise noted.

Nov. 6 and Dec. 4 BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. 6:308 p.m. Meets the first Tuesday of every month. Hope Connections for Cancer Support, Bethesda. 301-634-7500, hopeconnectionsforcancer.org.

Nov. 14 and Dec. 12 STROKE SUPPORT GROUP. 7-9 p.m. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation, Rockville. 301-7891004, adventisthealthcare.com.

Nov. 19 and Dec. 17 PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. Meets the third Monday of every month.

7-8:30 p.m. Johns Hopkins Health Care and Surgery Center, Bethesda. For information, contact Susan Jacobstein at 301-896-6837, suburbanhospital.org.

Dec. 5 and Jan. 3 DROP-IN DISCUSSION ABOUT GRIEF AND HEALING. For anyone mourning the death of a loved one. Open to those who live or work in Montgomery County. 6:30-8 p.m. Dec. 5; 1-2:30 p.m. Jan. 3. Montgomery Hospice, Rockville. Registration required. 301-9214400, montgomeryhospice.org. n To submit calendar items, go to BethesdaMagazine.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Senior Servces

Senior Services PROFILES

Five Star Premier Residences of Chevy Chase TONY J. LEWIS

John Higgins, Executive Director See Profile page 275

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Senior Services

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Capital City Nurses SUSAN RODGERS, RN, PRESIDENT & OWNER As families become geographically diverse, the challenges for seniors maintaining independence in their own home can be numerous. Susan Rodgers anticipated many of those needs when she started Capital City Nurses (CCN) over 40 years ago. Today the company continues to meet those needs by providing unsurpassed care, on-going staff education and all kinds of support designed to keep families close, whether they’re down the street or across the country.

Rodgers, a Registered Nurse, realized early on that great care goes far beyond medication management.

She identified how important it is to make personal connections with the clients and families, to match caregivers to their charges, and to make sure that those in Capital City Nurses’ care are enjoying life.

Today, Susan’s son, Brian Rodgers, continues Capital City Nurses’ vision, seeking out the best caregivers. “We hire people who we’d want caring for our own moms and dads,” says Brian. He developed CCN’s Caregiver Academy, an innovative program that emphasizes the engagement between nurses and clients by finding unique ways to create stronger interactions and relationships. Meanwhile, Susan has taken the lead in CCN’s Cottage concept, which provides upscale supported living for seniors seeking a traditional homelike environment.

The Capital Cities Nurses push to grow stronger and more connected is also demonstrated behind the scenes via their dedicated support team, which is always available to help families arrange and manage the very best care.

Homecare is a personal enterprise. It’s fitting that Capital City Nurses continues to excel and expand under the leadership of a family that truly knows the industry and has always prioritized families’ peace of mind by providing independence and safety for their loved ones.

8401 Connecticut Ave., Suite 1030 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-652-4344 www.capitalcitynurses.com 270 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

HILARY SCHWAB

“CCN’s Caregiver Academy emphasizes the engagement between nurses and clients by finding unique ways to create stronger interactions and relationships.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES

Senior Services

Ingleside at King Farm

TONY J. LEWIS

CODY CHRISTIAN, FITNESS MANAGER An active, engaged, fit, and safe lifestyle is the goal of Fitness Manager Cody Christian at Ingleside at King Farm.

Cody is a leader in the field of senior wellness. He holds a degree in public health education and promotion, with a geriatric focus, along with many certifications from nationally accredited fitness organizations.

A natural addition to the team at Ingleside at King Farm, Cody manages the Fitness Center, aquatics, group exercise and other wellness programs. He works alongside a diverse therapeutic team and trainers including physical, occupational, music and recreational therapists to create diverse, highly effective new age programming.

“My role is to create purpose and objectives for each program,” says Cody. “Education is a part of every session, so participants understand the purpose behind each exercise or movement.”

The diverse exercise program incorporates the full spectrum of needs including: strength training, cardio, endurance, flexibility, range of motion, mindfulness, stability, coordination, balance, functionality, and more.

Ingleside at King Farm is a highly engaged, active community with large program participation. “No matter what your current physical level is we have a program for you,” says Cody. Lower impact options allow for adaptability and inclusivity in most classes. Gathering people together promotes a feeling of social, emotional and physical wellness.

A new Center for Healthy Living will bring brand new fitness and wellness amenities to Ingleside at King Farm in 2019. In addition, 120 new independent living apartments are attracting a younger demographic, resulting in fitness programming at an even higher level. Current and new residents can look forward to a variety of floor classes, high-intensity interval training along with outdoor walking, hiking and biking groups.

“A new Center for Healthy Living will bring brand new fitness and wellness amenities to Ingleside at King Farm in 2019.”

701 King Farm Blvd.

Rockville MD 20850 240-499-9019 www.inglesidekingfarm.org

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Baywoods of Annapolis JIM HARRINGTON Jim Harrington, the director of business development at BayWoods of Annapolis, learned his reverence for seniors as a child. “I was very close to my grandparents and sensitive to their needs,” says Harrington. “I have always felt that the senior population is underserved.” Harrington has a masters in health administration from Eastern University and has worked in the industry for over two decades. “I love working with seniors,” he says. “My initiative is to make residents feel like they’re the most important part of my day.”

True to the promise of Annapolis, BayWoods has stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay from its Severn River perch. In fact, BayWoods is the only continuing care retirement community (CCRC) on the Annapolis waterfront. And it’s just one of two CCRC co-ops in Maryland. “It sets us apart in the market,” says Harrington. “It makes us unique.” As a co-op, residents get the benefits of home ownership, including tax advantages and property appreciation. They also have direct input in major community and facility decisions.

“Every decision that’s made here has the residents’ best interest at heart,” says Harrington.

Resident ownership has led to several measures that enhance quality of life: community renovations, a high staff-to-resident ratio and fee “holidays” every December for the past several years. The health center, which includes 47 private rooms, was given a refresh last year. The renovation of the dining room and common areas, which includes upgraded, eco-friendly lighting, will be completed in spring of 2019. “Residents prioritize being environmentally friendly,” says Harrington. And with 14 acres of woods and an incredible view of the bay, it’s no wonder the environment stays top of mind.

7101 Bay Front Drive Annapolis, MD 21403 410-268-9222 www.baywoodsofannapolis.com 272 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

TONY J. LEWIS

“Every decision that’s made here has the residents’ best interest at heart.”

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES

Senior Services

Maplewood Park Place

COURTSEY PHOTO

MAPLEWOOD GOLFERS Golf is a game that knows no age limits. Just ask the gregarious golfers at Maplewood Park Place in Bethesda.

“Our golf team has some of the most spirited golfers I’ve ever played with,” says Michelle Michaels, director of sales and marketing. A passionate golfer who’s enjoyed the sport since high school, she organized the Maplewood team. Michaels is also the billiards instructor. One afternoon, her class decided their next adventure should be at a local golf course. The idea caught on fast and expanded to include several community residents. “Whatever your age or skill level on the fairway, there’s nothing like a round of golf to build camaraderie,” Michaels says.

Maplewood resident Zelda Segal is a regular. “Golf in two words is ‘pure delight.’ It’s one more way to stay fit, have fun and live fully,” she says.

Fellow golfer and resident Bruce Mackey agrees. “With our golf team, the Maplewood activities menu keeps on growing. Exercise classes. In-house concerts. Play readings. On-site college courses. Now, golfing adventures. Maplewood truly has something for everyone.”

Golfer Bill Wallace and his wife spend winters in Florida, returning each spring to Maplewood.

“We appreciate the ‘lock-and-leave’ lifestyle and always look forward to our return to Bethesda— even more so now that a golf team is on the agenda.”

“Maplewood is like a hole-in-one,” says longtime resident and golfer Jane Betz. “It has everything you would ever want in a retirement community.”

Maplewood is the area’s only senior living community offering home ownership, an independent lifestyle and a full continuum of care. On Old Georgetown Road at I-495, residents live minutes from shops, restaurants and nearby attractions. To learn more, call 301-571-7444.

“Maplewood is like a hole-in-one!”

9707 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, MD 20814 301-530-0500 www.maplewoodparkplace.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Charles E. Smith Life Communities

Cohen-Rosen House | Hebrew Home of Greater Washington | Hirsh Health Center | Landow House | Post-Acute Care | Revitz House | Ring House 301-770-8448 smithlifecommunities.org

COURTESY PHOTO

Charles E. Smith Life Communities’ innovative and comprehensive care and services enable residents to experience a vibrant quality of life. The campus offers outstanding choices for independent living, rehabilitation and long-term care with on-site, full-time physicians, outstanding dining experiences and award-winning lifestyle and leisure programs, all enriched by the community’s Jewish heritage.

The assisted living residence, Landow House, offers an exceptional package of personal services, three kosher meals daily and an appealing schedule of leisure programs, all expertly backed by 24-hour nursing supervision, on-staff physicians and individual attention.

For memory care, Cohen-Rosen House is an intimate residence, thoughtfully combining elegance and award-winning memory care design.

There is the added benefit of Hirsh Health Center, a medical practice focusing solely on older adults’ well-being. Tours are available for anyone who would like to explore any or all options.

Assisting Hands Home Care

4853 Cordell Ave., Suite PH-10A Bethesda, MD 20814 301-363-2580 www.assistinghands.com/potomac 274 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

PHOTO COURTESY OF CESLC

One of the most important things a home care company can do is make great client-caregiver matches. Taking care of a person who rarely leaves home can be challenging, but our caregivers make it interesting by being good listeners. It was by listening to her client, Jean, that our caregiver Hawah learned the importance of a garden. Hawah planted both flowers and vegetables at Jean’s home. Together they enjoy arranging flowers, and Jean is eating fresh, organic tomatoes and green peppers that Hawah prepares.

“As a caregiver, I get to know my clients and hear about what they’ve enjoyed,” Hawah says. “Over the years I’ve learned to knit and crochet with clients. I also read books. I try to bring back memories and, when I do, it is so rewarding to watch their eyes light up! At Assisting Hands we all work hard to create these moments.”

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Senior Services

Five Star Premier Residences of Chevy Chase

TONY J. LEWIS

JOHN HIGGINS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR For 28 years, Five Star Premier Residences of Chevy Chase has been an elegant home to individuals, 55 and over, who appreciate having a high-quality lifestyle without the large equity investment that many similar independent and assisted living communities require upon entry. Five Star residents simply commit to a monthly rent.

The high-rise building’s balconies overlook lovely views of the adjacent Columbia Country Club and its golf course, with Bethesda in the background. Many choose Five Star for, in part, its very convenient location close to all the shopping, cultural events and dining opportunities that abound in Washington and its northwest suburbs.

“We are proud of our concierge services that include 24/7 desk staff and a doorman, our beautiful common areas, and fine finishes and furnishings. Anything our residents want or need, they can have on site, including different kinds of therapies. Above all, perhaps, we boast about low staff turnover. We hire quality people who care. Almost half of the staff has been here more than a decade,” says Executive Director John Higgins, who has been at Five Star for more than 20 years. “And we are always updating and upgrading; newly renovated apartments are regularly available.”

Residents dine any time they wish, enjoying wide-ranging menus created by chef Brandon Williams, who has worked in many fine restaurants and considers it a privilege to have trained under renowned chef and humanitarian Jose Andres. Another great offering is the Lifestyle 360 Program that is an intentional approach to living a healthier, happier and enhanced life, with over 300 social and recreational opportunities on the calendar every month, including activities and therapies in the indoor pool.

8100 Connecticut Ave. Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-907-8895 www.fivestarpremier-chevychase.com

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Riderwood Continuing Care Retirement Community There are places people move to retire—and there are places like Riderwood, where people move to live! As the nation’s largest senior living community, Riderwood has everything an older adult needs to enjoy their freedom years.

Riderwood’s sprawling 120-acre campus is minutes from the metro area’s many dining establishments, museums and cultural attractions.

On campus, community members are free to enjoy over 250 resident-run clubs, plus premium amenities including fitness centers, a full-service salon and day spa, a pharmacy, convenience store, bank and seven restaurants. Riderwood’s on-site medical center is staffed by six doctors and a variety of specialists, so residents have easy access to quality health and wellness care. If health needs change, higher levels of on-campus care are also available.

Best of all, Riderwood apartment homes are maintenance free. Residents can do as much or as little as they like each day, without the hassles of house upkeep.

3140 Gracefield Road | Silver Spring, MD 20904 1-800-610-1560 | www.RiderwoodCommunity.com

COURTESY PHOTO

AN ERICKSON LIVING COMMUNITY

CarePlus Home Health TOM NAJJAR, FOUNDER, AUTHOR & ADVOCATE HEATHER K. NAJJAR, MSN, CRNP, FNP-C

19390 Montgomery Village Ave. Montgomery Village, MD 20886 301-740-8870 www.careplusinc.com 276 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

“We may be in the home care business, but what we really provide is care from the heart,” says Tom Najjar, who launched CarePlus Home Health in 1995. With his experience in the hospitality field, he saw the need for reasonably priced, quality service with a personal touch.

Heather Najjar, director of nursing, has a specialty in interventional cardiology and over 25 years of emergency and critical-care nursing experience. Together, they provide expertise with a personalized approach to caring for families.

Their mission is to support the individual aging in place with assisted daily living, specialty programs and concierge services. In addition, they partner with communities as the preferred in-house provider for their residents. They are available 24/7. Their motto is, “We help mom get up in the morning so you can sleep at night.”

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Senior Services

Comfort Keepers HOME CARE DAVID AND ANI GIBSON, OWNERS David and Ani Gibson started the local Comfort Keepers office over eight years ago to provide loving, experienced care and support when family can't be there. The Gibsons understand the physical and emotional challenges that come up when an aging loved one requires extra help to remain in his or her own home.

The process begins with hiring compassionate and experienced caregivers. All caregivers are trained in person in office to make sure they understand what it takes to be a Comfort Keeper. These caregivers next become part of the Comfort Keepers team that works together to care for clients. Each team consists of caregiver/caregivers, an internal care coordinator, an external care coordinator, a scheduler and an RN. They work together to develop a detailed and personalized plan of care. Clients are introduced to the team, which regularly conducts supervisory and progress visits.

Team members take clients to appointments and communicate doctors’ instructions to all relevant parties and family members.

Comfort Keepers is very proud to offer advanced technology solutions to its clients. They utilize a secure on-line “Family Room Portal” and provide each client with a senior friendly GrandPad®. Adult children and spouses and others can have peace of mind knowing that their loved one can easily stay in touch with family, friends and the Comfort Keepers team. The Gibsons offer free, no obligation, in-home assessments to all interested parties.

TONY J. LEWIS

“The process begins with hiring compassionate and experienced caregivers.”

Client, Betty, and her caregiver, Althea

414 Hungerford Drive, Suite 448 Rockville, MD 20850 301-945-7606 ComfortKeepers.com/Montgomery-MD

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Senior Services

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Joseph O’Brien, MD ORTHOBETHESDA

Locations in Bethesda and Arlington 301-530-1010 www.orthobethesda.com

MICHAEL VENTURA

Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery, Dr. Joseph O’Brien specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery and revisions of failed spine surgeries.

A graduate of The George Washington School of Medicine, Dr. O’Brien completed his training at the Johns Hopkins University Medical Center with a fellowship in spinal reconstructive surgery. He spent nine years at GWU as an Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurological Surgery. Additionally, he was formerly the Medical Director of Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at The GW Hospital.

Dr. O’Brien joined OrthoBethesda in 2017 and founded the Washington Spine and Scoliosis Institute in 2017 with other members of the practice.

He has been published in a variety of medical journals including the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine; Neurosurgery, Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery; and Current Orthopaedic Practice. His research has been regularly presented internationally along with between 10-20 national research presentations per year.

The Village at Rockville– A National Lutheran Community

9701 Veirs Drive Rockville, MD 20850 301-812-4624 www.glenmereapartments.org 278 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

COURTESY PHOTO

The Village at Rockville’s newest addition, Glenmere, has been designed for the active retirement lifestyle today’s retirees aspire to, with 130 new, modern apartment homes. The spacious one or two-bedroom layouts boast high ceilings and upgrade options for appliances, flooring and finishes.

Glenmere brings a touch of modern living to The Village at Rockville’s quaint campus, which is tucked in a quiet neighborhood, yet is still close to shopping, dining and all the amenities Montgomery County offers.

“We are excited for the addition to our community,” says Sales Director Lawren Lankford. “Glenmere enables individuals to live retirement on their own terms and truly customize their experience with The Village at Rockville.”

Residents will also have the security of health care on-site including assisted living, memory care, long-term care and myPotential Rehabilitation. Glenmere is projected to open in 2020 pending final approval by the Maryland Department of Aging.

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Senior Services

Best Senior Care

ERNESTO MALDONADO

SERGEI PETUKHOV, ALEX PETUKHOV, NATALIYA CANCEL & TANYA RAVINSKI For almost 20 years, Best Senior Care has provided home assistance services with a particular emphasis on clients’ safety. Preventing falls is a high priority. A simple misstep can lead to a broken hip, recovery from which can be devastating. It’s far less costly to get a few hours of preventative help early on rather than what might be round-the-clock care after a fall.

When helping seniors or their loved ones decide on the right time for assistance, we look for unsteadiness, dizziness and trouble standing smoothly from a seated position. Primary care doctors are a good place to start for assessing care needs. We recommend asking the doctor about low blood pressure or unstable sugar levels.

Other crucial safety issues we focus on are medication management and nutrition. Many elderly seniors are forgetful about medicine. Many are unable to make healthy meals on their own. We look at their pill bottles and compare the number of pills in the bottle with the fill date to see if they are being taken on schedule. Our caregivers also shop and prepare meals, making sure to cook extra for leftovers that can be reheated easily.

We also solve the socialization deficit from which many seniors suffer out of choice or circumstances. To make the lives of our clients as fulfilling as possible, we engage them one-on-one and encourage excursions into the community.

We take a great pride in our caregivers. They are thoroughly screened, trained, certified, insured, bonded and, most importantly, compassionate and well spoken. Our ultimate goal is to make sure every client is heard, understood and taken care of with dignity and respect. We take great pride in offering compassionate personal care in the comfort of your home.

“Compassionate personal care in the comfort of your home.”

17860 New Hampshire Ave., Suite 302 Ashton, MD 20861 301-717-2212 www.bestseniorcare.us RSA #R2041

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restaurants. cooking. food. drinks.

PHOTO BY DEB LINDSEY

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Chef Roberto Massillon and his brother opened Port-au-Prince Authentic Haitian Cuisine in Silver Spring earlier this year. For our review, turn the page.

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HAITIAN SENSATION

Chef Roberto Massillon’s island cooking is a hit in Silver Spring

BY DAVID HAGEDORN | PHOTOS BY DEB LINDSEY

TWO KINDS OF FRITTERS MAKE their way to the table to begin my first meal at Port-au-Prince (PAP) Authentic Haitian Cuisine in Silver Spring. One batch—herbaceous and mildly spicy from a hint of habanero pepper—is thin, crispy akra fritters made from a paste of mashed, yam-like malanga root, scallions and onions. The other is marinad—round, flour-based fritters that resemble hush puppies and pack a heat wallop, as does their accompanying slaw.

Called pikliz, the slaw is made with green cabbage, carrots, onions, habanero peppers, vinegar, lime juice and sea salt and is a condiment that accompanies most

Haitian meals. The heat jolts at first, but as your taste buds adjust, you crave more of the habit-forming stuff. The slaw is a good entry point to discovering more of Haiti’s Creole cuisine and its harmonious blend of Spanish, French and African influences.

Haiti is the western third of Hispaniola, the large Caribbean island between Jamaica and Puerto Rico that also includes the Dominican Republic. When you enter PAP, you get an immediate feel for Haiti as your eyes fix on a stunning mural on the back wall of the beguiling 50-seat eatery, which chef Roberto Massillon opened with

Overall Rating:

B+

Port-au-Prince Authentic Haitian Cuisine 7912 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, 301-565-2006, paphaitiancuisine.com FAVORITE DISHES: PAP chicken wings, marinad (puffy fritters), whole red snapper, fried turkey or goat, legume casserole, rum cake PRICES: Appetizers: $5 to $10; Entrées: $14 to $25; Dessert: $6 to $7.50; Brunch: $35 with bottomless mimosas, $30 without.

LIBATIONS: A Haitian specialty is Rhum Barbancourt, a dark rum made from sugarcane juice. At Port-auPrince, tasty cocktails made with it include the Wap Konn Joj (with ginger syrup, ginger beer and lime), the Manmzel (with Triple Sec, lime juice and hibiscus syrup) and the M’ap Boule (pineapple and mangoinfused Barbancourt rum, lemon juice and club soda). Other notable libations are Bwa Kochon, a boozy house-made elixir infused with herbs, roots and spices and sold by the shot, and Prestige Haitian lager beer.

SERVICE: Enthusiastic and attentive, even if it can take a while for cocktail orders to be filled

Chef Roberto Massillon prepares foods from his native country at Port-au-Prince Authentic Haitian Cuisine.

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Double-fried plantain patties with spicy slaw (called pikliz) and rice and beans

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his brother Makendy in Silver Spring in February. The mural depicts a rara (music fest) in front of Port-au-Prince’s white-as-a-wedding-cake—and now destroyed—presidential palace, with a throng of joyful people in brightly colored jewel-tone clothing, dancing and wielding vaccine (large, single-note bamboo trumpets) and maracas. (The capital city’s palace collapsed in the 2010 earthquake that devastated Haiti.)

“As soon as people enter the restaurant they know they are in Port-au-Prince,” says Massillon, who prefers to be called chef Don Berto. The painting is by Haitian-born and Boston-raised artist Fritz DesRoches. Many of DesRoches’ vibrant, airbrushed, acrylic paintings adorn the seafoam green walls of PAP. Massillon, who is 40 and a U.S. Army veteran, was born in Jean-Rabel in northwest Haiti, but grew up in Port-auPrince. At 19 he came to the Silver Spring 284

Clockwise from left: fritters, called marinad, and chicken wings; the 50-seat restaurant’s interior; vegetarian legume casserole

area to live with his father and earned a bachelor’s degree in linguistics and modern language from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He works full-time for the U.S. State Department as a language and culture teacher for diplomats going to Haiti, which makes Port-au-Prince Authentic Haitian Cuisine a side gig. (The restaurant is only open for dinner and Sunday brunch.)

In college, Massillon, who started cooking with his stepmother when he was a child, would cook for friends.

After college, he regularly organized potluck parties and started being known for his cooking. In 2016, at the urging of fans who lamented that there was no Haitian restaurant in the area, he started

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a weekly pop-up brunch at a downtown Silver Spring restaurant. “The people loved it and wanted more, so [Makendy and I] put all of our assets together and opened a restaurant,” he says. That’s a win-win for all of us.

Massillon’s menu is so brief that a party of four could order its entirety: five appetizers, five entrées (plus an entrée salad) and two desserts (rum cake or house-made ice cream). The offerings, devoid of pork and shellfish, reflect Massillon’s religious upbringing. “Growing up Seventh-day Adventist in Haiti, we abided by the dietary rules spelled out in the book of Leviticus, which included not eating pork or shellfish,” he says. He honors the religion also by observing its Sabbath, so PAP is closed Fridays and reopens Saturdays after sundown.

Massillon’s no longer a strict Adventist though, so his eatery does serve alcohol, which means you can, and

should, start a meal with one of the cocktails. Make sure to try those made with Barbancourt rum, a Haitian specialty (see box on page 282). Also worth imbibing are the Tet Fret (white rum, coconut rum, ginger syrup, coconut water), a refreshing alternative to a piña colada; and the Bazilik Potoprens (gin, basil syrup, lemon juice, sparkling wine).

In addition to akra fritters and marinad (ask for extra pikliz because PAP is a little stingy with the serving size), begin a meal here with chicken wings, braised until tender, then deep-fried, dressed with a lime juice and garlic-spiked vinaigrette and topped with onions. Lime supplies the acid, and the onions offer sweetness, adding up to a satisfying starter. Plantain cups topped with a mixture of flaked salt cod and sautéed red peppers and onions are on the stodgy side. Double-fried plantain patties, similar to tostones, are crispy and tasty, but they come with most of the entrées, so there’s no need to order them as an appetizer.

Among the entrées are bone-in chunks of fried goat or fried turkey, both marinated in hot pepper sauce and then braised with onions and garlic before being deep-fried. Turkey is tender on one occasion, but dry on another.

Goat is tender and has a deeper, more pronounced flavor than turkey. A musthave is sautéed whole red snapper with onions and red peppers, its flesh moist and lightly perfumed with a marinade of vinegar, lime juice and thyme.

The vegetarian entrée at PAP is a casserole similar to ratatouille and made with eggplant, bell peppers, celery and onions. It’s filling, especially with sides of coconut-scented rice and black bean purée. I’d happily make a meal of the sides, saving room for a smashing nutmeg-scented pound cake that’s soaked with Barbancourt rum.

Every other Saturday night the restaurant offers entertainment. I was fortunate to hear the Cuerpa y Alma flamenco band and marvel at the flamenco dancer. There is no cover charge but make reservations early—the place is packed. Also packed

is Sunday brunch where crowds line up at a buffet for oxtail stew and hearty soup made from joumou, a Haitian gourd similar to pumpkin.

If you haven’t tried Haitian food, consider PAP your Silver Spring gateway. n

The restaurant’s menu, which is short, includes fried turkey (top) and rum cake.

David Hagedorn is the restaurant critic for Bethesda Magazine.

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BY DAVID HAGEDORN | PHOTOS BY DEB LINDSEY

HITTING THE SPOT THE SPOT, a 6,200-square-foot, 200seat Asian food hall, opened in July in Rockville, not far from Rockville Town Square. Co-owners Edward Wong and Vivian Zhu lease space to five vendors. In the works are a sushi bar and a cocktail bar that will also serve bao buns. (They expected a liquor license by mid-October.)

Overall impression: The Spot is bright, airy and especially fun for families. (There’s a section with low tables for kids where you sit on cushions on the floor.) The food is Instagram-ready, but largely average. Here’s a rundown: Alpaca Dessert: This independent operator has two offerings—shaved snow ice and Hong Kong-style bubble waffle cones filled with ice cream. You can add dry and wet toppings, such as Kit Kat pieces, Oreos, berries, condensed milk and caramel sauce. It’s a kid magnet.

Cheers Cut: At this franchise, you choose chicken, beef or squid (or a combination), then select either breaded and fried, or grilled. Pick a seasoning (chili, plum or salt and pepper) and a sauce, such as teriyaki or honey mustard. Our fried combo was nicely cooked, but otherwise unremarkable.

Bypass the teriyaki sauce.

Gong Cha: A Taiwanese bubble tea chain, Gong Cha offers milk tea, bubble tea, coffee drinks and smoothies. Add toppings (milk foam, tapioca bubbles, jellies) if you wish. The specialty here is milk foam, a frothy, salty topping that may taste strange at first but winds up delicious. You can customize the sweetness level and the amount of ice in your drink—a big thumbs-up.

Mian Pull Noodle: The main attraction at this independent local vendor is the handmade pulled noodles, made right in front of you. The action is mesmerizing

The choices at Asian food hall The Spot include (opposite, clockwise from left) fried chicken, beef and squid from Cheers Cut; beef pull noodle soup from Mian Pull Noodle; and a salmon and tuna poke bowl from Poki DC. Above: The Spot features 200 seats and five vendors. Below: Teddy Liu makes noodles by hand at Mian Pull Noodle.

and the noodles are nicely chewy and ultra-fresh, but the broth they come in is so lacking in flavor you need every drop of the vinegar and chili oil accompaniments. Pasty dumplings are a miss.

Poki DC: A local chainlet, Poki DC specializes in the Hawaiian-inspired raw fish dish called poke. You build your own bowl, selecting rice, salad mix or zucchini noodles to be topped with protein (raw tuna, salmon or yellowtail; cooked shrimp, chicken or squid; or tofu), addons (including edamame, radishes and kale), sauces (such as honey wasabi, eel sauce or mango sauce) and crunchies (sesame seeds and fried onions).

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HOLIDAY INSPIRATION

Bethesda-area chefs and restaurateurs share their favorite food and drink traditions “MY FAVORITE DRINK OF all time is Heineken beer, but for special occasions I indulge in a Chinese liquor called baijiu [a distilled grain-based spirit, usually made from fermented sorghum],” says Peter Chang, the executive chef of a restaurant

group whose flagship is Q by Peter Chang in Bethesda. “But a little goes a long way.”

His favorite dish is fish prepared in his mother’s style—pan-fried, then braised with ginger, scallions and fresh chili peppers. “In the Chinese culture, [the word]

‘fish’ sounds like surplus, meaning to have more than sufficient,” the chef says. “It’s a must-have dish for any holiday.”

Daisuke Utagawa, the owner of Sushiko Chevy Chase/Kobo in Chevy Chase, loves to celebrate the holidays with a good bottle of red burgundy, such as Domaine Jacques-Frederic Mugnier ChambolleMusigny les Amoureuses or Volnay Clos du Château des Ducs from Michel Lafarge.

“That and a simple, well-executed flounder sashimi with fresh Mazuma wasabi will lift my spirit so high I could probably fly.”

During the holidays K.N. Vinod, the chef and co-owner of Rockville’s Bombay Bistro, likes to eat dishes that his mom cooked in his childhood, such as fish pollichathu— a whole fish with spices wrapped in a banana leaf and baked—and lamb coconut chili fry, a specialty of the Syrian Christians of Kerala. And, he says, “No holiday meal is complete for a ‘Keralite’ without a payasam, a traditional dessert made with either wheat, rice or lentils with jaggery [similar to brown sugar] and coconut milk.”

Zena Polin, the co-owner of The Daily Dish in Silver Spring and The Dish & Dram in Kensington, lived in Puerto Rico for eight years and loved the Christmas season there. Making pasteles (like tamales) with a huge group of extended family while drinking coquito (a rum and coconut eggnog-style drink) is a favorite memory of hers. “Most pasteles are made with plantains, but I prefer the yucca ones,” she says. “It’s a giant assembly line, cutting the banana leaves, arranging masa [dough] carefully on the leaf, filling with pork and spices, adding a few chickpeas and olives to each one, then wrapping and tying and eating or freezing— except mine always seem to be the ugliest, probably because of the coquito.” After making the pasteles, there are parrandas, where people play guitars, maracas and tambourines and sing Spanish Christmas carols late into the night.

One of restaurateur Zena Polin’s favorite Christmas memories is drinking an eggnog-like cocktail called coquito.

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&

COQUITO

COMINGS GOINGS

Recipe from Zena Polin Makes 10 servings This recipe for coquito, the Puerto Rican eggnog-like quaff, can easily be halved.

The Daily Dish and The Dish & Dram offer it around the holidays.

The Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chao will open in the Pike & Rose development in North Bethesda in early 2019.

1 750-milliliter bottle of Don Q Cristal (or any white rum) 2 14-ounce cans sweetened condensed milk 4 12-ounce cans evaporated milk 1 15-ounce can cream of coconut 4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Ground nutmeg for garnish Cinnamon sticks for garnish

D.C.-based fast-casual poke chain Poké Papa will open in Bethesda’s Westfield Montgomery mall in early 2019.

Also opening in early 2019 is an outlet of the fast-casual burger chain Zinburger Wine & Burger Bar. It will be located in Silver Spring’s Blair Park shopping center on East West Highway. n

Combine the liquid ingredients and refrigerate until cold. Serve in festive glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a cinnamon stick.

Bethesda Magazine 1/2 page horizontal | 7˝w x 4.625”h

Taste the joy.

Delectable hors d’oeuvres and must-try cocktails.

Savory entrées with seasonal splendor.

Extraordinary creativity that’s the talk-of-the-town.

I T ’ S J U S T W H AT W E D O.

C E L E B R AT I O N S

WEDDINGS

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C O R P O R AT E & M A J O R E V E N T S

301.652.1515

ridgewells.com

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DINING GUIDE

CHECK OUT THE ONLINE VERSION OF THE DINING GUIDE AT BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

BETHESDA AJI-NIPPON 6937 Arlington Road, 301-654-0213. A calm oasis on a busy street, where chef Kazuo Honma serves patrons several kinds of sushi, sashimi, noodle soups, teriyaki and more. Try a dinner box, which includes an entrée, vegetables, California roll, tempura and rice. L D $$

ALATRI BROS. (EDITORS’ PICK) 4926 Cordell Ave., 301-718-6427, alatribros.com.

The folks behind Olazzo and Gringos & Mariachis bought Mia’s Pizzas and revamped it with a new name and décor. They kept the Naples-style pies that come from a wood-burning oven, but added small plates and healthy options. Sit in the cheery dining room with green, gray and white accents or under an umbrella on the patio.  L D $$

AMERICAN TAP ROOM 7278 Woodmont Ave., 301- 656-1366, americantap room.com. Here’s a classic grill menu featuring sliders, wings and craft beer. Entrées range from BBQ Glazed Meatloaf Dinner with whipped potatoes and green beans to the lighter Crabmeat Omelet.

❂  R L D $$ &PIZZA

7614 Old Georgetown Road, 240-800-4783, andpizza.com. Create your own designer pizza from a choice of three crusts, three cheeses and eight sauces or spreads. Toppings for the thin, crispy crusts range from the usual suspects to falafel crumbles, fig marsala and pineapple salsa. This location of the hip, fast-casual chain has limited seating. L D $

BACCHUS OF LEBANON (EDITORS’ PICK) 7945 Norfolk Ave., 301-657-1722, bacchusoflebanon.com. This friendly and elegant Lebanese staple has a large, sunny patio that beckons lunch and dinner patrons outside when the weather is good to try garlicky hummus, stuffed grape leaves, chicken kabobs, veal chops and dozens of small-plate dishes. ❂ L D $$

BANGKOK GARDEN 4906 St. Elmo Ave., 301-951-0670, bkkgarden. com. This real-deal, family-run Thai restaurant turns out authentic cuisine, including curries, soups and noodle dishes, in a dining room decorated with traditional statues of the gods. L D $

THE BARKING DOG 4723 Elm St., 301-654-0022, barkingdogbar.com.

A fun place for young adults, with drink specials nearly every night and bar food such as quesadillas and burgers. Salsa dancing on Tuesdays, trivia on Wednesdays, karaoke on Thursdays and a DJ and dancing Fridays and Saturdays. ❂ L D $

BARREL + CROW 4867 Cordell Ave., 240-800-3253, barrelandcrow. com. Contemporary regional and southern cuisine

served in a comfortable setting with charcoal gray banquettes and elements of wood and brick. Menu highlights include Maryland crab beignets, shrimp and grits and roasted trout. ❂ R L D $$

Key

BEEFSTEAK 7101 Democracy Blvd. (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-365-0608, beefsteakveggies.com. The fastcasual spot from chef José Andrés is heavily focused on seasonal vegetables for build-your-own bowls and salads (or pick one of their suggested combinations).

Toppings such as poached egg, chicken sausage and salt-cured salmon are also in the lineup. L D $

Price designations are for a threecourse dinner for two including tip and tax, but excluding alcohol. $ up to $50 $$ $51-$100 $$$ $101-$150 $$$$ $151+ Outdoor Dining b  Children’s Menu B Breakfast R Brunch L Lunch D Dinner

BENIHANA 7935 Wisconsin Ave., 301-652-5391, benihana. com. Experience dinner-as-theater as the chef chops and cooks beef, chicken, vegetables and seafood tableside on the hibachi. This popular national chain serves sushi, too. The kids’ menu includes a California roll and hibachi chicken, steak and shrimp entrées. J L D $$

BETHESDA CRAB HOUSE 4958 Bethesda Ave., 301-652-3382, bethesdacrab house.com. In the same location since 1961, this casual, family-owned dining spot features jumbo lump crabcakes, oysters on the half shell and jumbo spiced shrimp. Extra large and jumbo-sized crabs available year-round; call ahead to reserve.

❂ L D $$

BETHESDA CURRY KITCHEN 4860 Cordell Ave., 301-656-0062, bethesda currykitchen.com. The restaurant offers lunch buffet and Southern Indian vegan specialties, served in a spare and casual setting. There are plenty of choices from the tandoor oven, as well as vegetarian, seafood and meat curries. L D $

BGR: THE BURGER JOINT 4827 Fairmont Ave., 301-358-6137, bgrtheburger joint.com. The burgers are good and the vibe is great at this frequently packed eatery next to Veterans Park. Try the veggie burger, made with a blend of brown rice, black beans, molasses and oats. ❂ J L D $

THE BIG GREEK CAFÉ 4806 Rugby Ave., 301-907-4976, biggreekcafe. com. Owned by the Marmaras brothers, the café serves Greek specialties, including a top-notch chicken souvlaki pita. L D $

BISTRO PROVENCE (EDITORS’ PICK) 4933 Fairmont Ave., 301-656-7373, bistroprovence.org. Chef Yannick Cam brings his formidable experience to a casual French bistro with a lovely courtyard. The Dinner Bistro Fare, served daily from 5 to 6:30 p.m., offers a choice of appetizer, main course and dessert for $35.

❂ R L D $$$

BLACK’S BAR & KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 7750 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-5525, blacksbar andkitchen.com. Customers count on the impeccable use of fresh and local ingredients and

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enjoy dining on the expansive patio. The bar draws crowds for happy hour. ❂ R L D $$$

BRICKSIDE FOOD & DRINK 4866 Cordell Ave., 301-312-6160, brickside bethesda.com. Prohibition-era drinks meet Italian bar bites and entrées. Dishes range from fried pork and waffles to short ribs. Try one of the colorfully named punches, which include Pink Murder Punch and Snow Cone Punch. ❂ R L D $$

CADDIES ON CORDELL 4922 Cordell Ave., 301-215-7730, caddieson cordell.com. Twentysomethings gather at this golfthemed spot to enjoy beer and wings specials in a casual, rowdy atmosphere that frequently spills onto the large patio. ❂ J R L D $

CAFÉ DELUXE 4910 Elm St., 301-656-3131, cafedeluxe.com. This local chain serves bistro-style American comfort food in a fun and noisy setting with wood fans and colorful, oversized European liquor posters. Menu options include burgers, entrées, four varieties of flatbread and mussels served three different ways.

❂ J R L D $$ CAVA

7101 Democracy Blvd., Suite 2360 (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-658-2233; 4832 Bethesda Ave., 301-656-1772; cava.com. The guys from CAVA Mezze restaurant have created a Greek version of Chipotle. Choose the meat, dip or spread for a pita, bowl or salad. House-made juices and teas provide a healthful beverage option. ❂ (Bethesda Avenue location) L D $

dine CESCO OSTERIA 7401 Woodmont Ave., 301-654-8333, cesco-osteria.com. Longtime chef Francesco Ricchi turns out Tuscan specialties, including pizza, pasta and foccacia in a big, jazzy space. Stop by the restaurant’s Co2 Lounge for an artisan cocktail before dinner. ❂ L D $$

CHEESY PIZZI 8021 Wisconsin Ave., 240-497-0000, cheesypizzibethesda.com. In addition to the standard offerings of a pizza joint, this spot (formerly Pizza Tempo under different owners) has sandwiches and boat-shaped Turkish pizza known as pide. Delivery is available. L D $

CHEF TONY’S 4926 St. Elmo Ave., 301-654-3737, cheftonys bethesda.com. Chef-owner Tony Marciante focuses on Mediterranean seafood tapas, offering dishes ranging from fish and seafood to chicken, steak and pasta. Desserts include Drunken Strawberries and Classic Creme Brulée. J R L D $$

CHERCHER ETHIOPIAN 4921 Bethesda Ave., 301-652-6500, chercherrestaurant.com. The second branch of a D.C. Ethiopian spot, this restaurant and bar took over the space housing Suma. The décor is moderncontemporary and the menu features dishes—from beef to vegan—served on one large platter, meant for sharing, and Ethiopian wine. L D $

CITY LIGHTS OF CHINA 4953 Bethesda Ave., 301-913-9501, bethesda citylights.com. Longtime Chinese eatery serves familiar Sichuan and Beijing fare, including six types of dumplings and seven handmade noodle dishes. Red walls and chocolate-colored booths give the place a sharp look. L D $$

COOPER’S MILL 5151 Pooks Hill Road, 301-897-9400, coopersmillrestaurant.com/bethesda. The restaurant showcases a modern, stylish menu with stone-oven flatbreads, homemade tater tots and locally sourced produce. Local beers on draft and by the bottle, plus regional bourbon and gin.

Happy hour and private dining are offered.

B R L D $$

THE CORNER SLICE 7901 Norfolk Ave., 301-907-7542, thecornerslice. net. New York-style pizza, available by the slice or as a 20-inch pie. Specialty pizzas include the spinachartichoke white pie with ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan and the Buffalo Chicken Pie with blue cheese and hot sauce. ❂ L D $

CRAVE 7101 Democracy Blvd., Suite 1530 (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-469-9600, cravebethesda. com. Minnesota-based chainlet offers an eclectic melting pot of American dishes, including bison burgers, lobster-and-shrimp flatbread and kogi beef tacos. The restaurant is also known for its extensive selection of wine and sushi. J L D $$

DAILY GRILL One Bethesda Metro Center, 301-656-6100, dailygrill.com. Everyone from families to expenseaccount lunchers can find something to like about the big portions of fresh American fare, including chicken pot pie and jumbo lump crabcakes.

❂ J B R L D $$

small plates. Pick from an assortment of vegetables, two types of tsebhi (a traditional stew), ground fish, kitfo (a steak tartare preparation) and more. L D $

DOG HAUS 7904 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-4287, bethesda. doghaus.com. This fast-casual California-based chain serves hot dogs, sausages, burgers and chicken sandwiches. The hot dogs are all beef and hormone- and antibiotic-free. The industrial-chic space includes picnic tables, TVs, a bar and more than two dozen beer choices. J L D $

DON POLLO 10321 Westlake Drive, 301-347-6175; donpollogroup.com. Juicy, spiced birds and reasonable prices make this Peruvian chicken eatery a go-to place any night of the week. Family meals that serve four or six people are available.

❂LD$

DUCK DUCK GOOSE (EDITORS’ PICK) 7929 Norfolk Ave., 301-312-8837, ddgbethesda. com. Thirty-five-seat French brasserie owned by chef Ashish Alfred. Small plates include steak tartare, and squid ink spaghetti with Manila clams and Fresno chilies. Among the entrées, look for updates of French classics, such as dry-aged duck with Bing cherries, and halibut with scallop mousse and puff pastry. ❂ L D $$

FARYAB AFGHAN CUISINE 4917 Cordell Ave., 301-951-3484. After closing for more than a year, Faryab reopened in 2017 and serves well-prepared Afghani country food, including Afghanistan’s answer to Middle Eastern kabobs, vegetarian entrées and unique sautéed pumpkin dishes, in a whitewashed dining room with native art on the walls. D $$

FISH TACO 7251 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-0010; 10305 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 301-564-6000, fishtacoonline.com. This counterservice taqueria features a full roster of seafood as well as non-aquatic tacos, plus margaritas and other Mexican specialties.

JLD$

FLANAGAN'S HARP & FIDDLE 4844 Cordell Ave., 301-951-0115, flanagansharp andfiddle.com. This stylish pub features live music several days a week, Tuesday night poker and Monday quiz nights. In addition to traditional stews and fried fish, Flanagan's offers smoked ribs, salmon and traditional Irish breakfast on weekends. ❂ J B L D $$

GARDEN GRILLE & BAR 7301 Waverly St. (Hilton Garden Inn), 301-6548111. Aside from a breakfast buffet featuring cooked-to-order omelets, waffles, fruit and more, the restaurant offers an extensive menu, from burgers to crabcakes, short ribs and pasta dishes.

J B D $$

GEORGE’S CHOPHOUSE 4935 Cordell Ave., 240-534-2675, georgesbethesda.com. This modern bistro with pop-culture décor features a seasonally changing menu of house-made pastas, plus a raw bar and a variety of steaks. The braised beef cheek fettucine combines two specialties: house-made pastas and slow-cooked meat. L D $$$

DELINA ERITREAN URBAN KITCHEN (NEW)

GRINGOS & MARIACHIS (EDITORS’ PICK)

4914 Cordell Ave., 240-630-8579, delinakitchen. com. This Ethiopian/Eritrean restaurant features

4928 Cordell Ave., 240-800-4266, gringosand mariachis.com. The owners of the popular

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Olazzo Italian restaurants in Bethesda and Silver Spring trade in the red sauce for salsa at this hip taqueria with edgy murals and plenty of tequila.

LD$

GUAPO’S RESTAURANT 8130 Wisconsin Ave., 301-656-0888, guapos restaurant.com. This outpost of a local chain has everything you’d expect: margaritas and chips galore, as well as a handful of daily specials served in festive Mexican surroundings. Perfect for families and dates. J R L D $

GUARDADO’S 4918 Del Ray Ave., 301-986-4920, guardados.com.

Chef-owner Nicolas Guardado, who trained at Jaleo, opened this hidden gem devoted to Latin-Spanish cooking in 2007 and has developed a following with tapas specialties like shrimp and sausage, stuffed red peppers and paella. J L D $

GUSTO FARM TO STREET 7101 Democracy Blvd. (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-312-6509; 4733 Elm St., 240-3966398; eatgusto.com. The fast-casual eatery aims to serve healthy fare, with a focus on pizzas and salads. The menu includes suggested combos but you can also build your own. Pizza crust comes in cauliflower, whole grain or traditional, and housemade dressings top heirloom tomatoes, butternut squash and other salad items. ❂ (Elm Street location only) L D $

HANARO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 7820 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-7851, hanarobethesda. com. The restaurant’s modern dark woods combined with a light-filled dining room brighten its corner location, and the menu includes sushi and Asian fusion main courses such as pad Thai and galbi (Korean ribs). The bar offers a daily happy hour. ❂ L D $$

HIMALAYAN HERITAGE 4925 Bethesda Ave., 301-654-1858, himalayan heritagebethesda.com. The menu includes North Indian, Nepali, Indo-Chinese and Tibetan cuisines, featuring momos (Nepalese dumplings), Indian takes on Chinese chow mein and a large selection of curry dishes. L D $

HOUSE OF FOONG LIN 4613 Willow Lane, 301-656-3427, foonglin.com.

The Chinese restaurant features Cantonese, Hunan and Sichuan cuisine, including chef’s recommendations, low-fat choices and lots of traditional noodle dishes. L D $$

HOUSE OF MILAE 4932 St. Elmo Ave., 301-654-1997. The Kang family, who own Milae Cleaners in Bethesda, bring simple Korean dishes to their first food foray. Chef “M&M” Kang prepares home-style fare such as bulgogi, galbi and bibimbap. The kids’ menu has one item: spaghetti, made from the recipe of owner Thomas Kang’s former college roommate’s mother.

JLD$

THE IRISH INN AT GLEN ECHO 6119 Tulane Ave., 301-229-6600, irishinnglenecho. com. This historic tavern has been a family home and a biker bar, but its incarnation as the Irish Inn has been delivering smiles and hearty food since 2003. Traditional Irish music on Monday nights, The 19th Street Band or other live music on Wednesday nights and live jazz on Sunday nights. ❂ J R L D $$

dine JALEO (EDITORS’ PICK) 7271 Woodmont Ave., 301-913-0003, jaleo.com.

The restaurant that launched the American career of chef José Andrés and popularized Spanish tapas for a Washington, D.C., audience offers hot, cold, spicy and creative small plates served with outstanding Spanish wines. Voted “Best Small Plates” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2017. ❂ R L D $$

JETTIES 4829 Fairmont Ave., 301-769-6844, jettiesdc. com. The only suburban location of the popular Nantucket-inspired sandwich shop, which has five restaurants in Northwest Washington, D.C. Aside from the signature Nobadeer sandwich (roasted turkey and stuffing with cranberry sauce and mayonnaise on sourdough), look for large salads and an innovative children’s menu. ❂ J L D $

KADHAI (EDITORS’ PICK) 7905 Norfolk Ave., 301-718-0121, kadhai.com.

This popular Indian restaurant formerly known as Haandi serves a variety of traditional chicken, lamb and seafood dishes, plus rice and vegetarian dishes and a selection of breads. An extensive lunch buffet is offered daily. Voted “Best Indian Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ L D $$

KAPNOS KOUZINA (EDITORS’ PICK) 4900 Hampden Lane, 301-986-8500, kapnos kouzina.com. Chef Mike Isabella’s first foray into Maryland, this restaurant spotlights Greek spreads, salads, small plates and roasted meats. Not to be missed are the pyde, puffed pillows of bread.

They are best as spread-dipping vehicles; crusts for topped, pizza-like flatbreads; or sandwich casings for souvlakis. ❂ R L D $$

LA PANETTERIA 4921 Cordell Ave., 301-951-6433, lapanetteria. com. La Panetteria transports diners into a quaint Italian villa with its impeccable service and Old World atmosphere, serving such Southern and Northern Italian classic dishes as homemade spaghetti and veal scaloppine. L D $$

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN 7140 Bethesda Lane, 301-913-2902; 10217 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 240-752-8737, lepainquotidien.com. New Yorkbased Belgian-born bakery/restaurant chain with farmhouse vibe, featuring organic breads, European breakfast and dessert pastries, savory egg dishes, soups, Belgian open-faced sandwiches, entrée salads, wine and Belgian beer by the bottle. ❂ JBRLD$

LE VIEUX LOGIS 7925 Old Georgetown Road, 301-652-6816, levieuxlogisrestaurantmd.com. The colorful exterior will draw you into this family-run Bethesda institution, but classic French dishes such as Dover sole meunière and mussels in a white wine broth will keep you coming back. ❂ D $$$

LOUISIANA KITCHEN & BAYOU BAR 4907 Cordell Ave., 301-652-6945, louisiana bethesda.com. The popular Bethesda institution offers a Cajun- and Creole-style menu, complete with divine fried items. The pain perdou and beignets remain a great way to start a Sunday morning. B R L D $

LUCY ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 4865 Cordell Ave., 301-347-7999. The authentic Ethiopian menu here includes beef and lamb plates, such as kitfo (raw beef) sandwiches and boneless braised yebeg alicha (Ethiopian mild lamb stew).

The interior is decorated with Ethiopian-inspired art

and features a full bar. Beef and vegan samplers are available at the Bethesda location. L D $

LUKE’S LOBSTER 7129 Bethesda Lane, 301-718-1005, lukeslobster. com. This upscale carryout features authentic lobster, shrimp and crab rolls; the seafood is shipped directly from Maine. Try the Taste of Maine, which offers all three kinds of rolls, plus two crab claws.❂ L D $

MAKI BAR 6831 Wisconsin Ave. (Shops of Wisconsin), 301907-9888, makibarbethesda.com. This tiny 30-seat Japanese restaurant and sushi bar offers 60-plus kinds of maki rolls, categorized as Classic (tuna roll), Crunch Lover (spicy crunch California roll) and Signature (eel, avocado, tobiko, crab), along with sushi, sashimi, noodle bowls and rice-based entrées. L D $$

MAMMA LUCIA 4916 Elm St., 301-907-3399, mammalucia restaurants.com. New York-style pizza dripping with cheese and crowd-pleasing red sauce, and favorites like chicken Parmesan and linguini with clams draw the crowds to this local chain. Gluten-free options available. ❂ L D $$

MEDIUM RARE 4904 Fairmont Ave., 301-215-8739, mediumrare restaurant.com. A prix fixe menu that comes with bread, salad, steak and fries is the sole option at this small chain outpost (there are two Medium Rares in D.C.). Desserts cost extra. Weekend brunch also features a prix fixe menu. D $$

MODERN MARKET 4930 Elm St., 240-800-4733, modernmarket. com. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, this Bethesda Row eatery is part of a Denver-based chain. The focus is on seasonal, from-scratch fare and ingredients such as nitrate- and hormonefree bacon. Sandwiches, soups, salads and pizza dominate the menu. ❂ J B R L D $

MOMO CHICKEN & GRILL 4862 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, 240-483-0801, momofc.com. Skip the breasts, and head for the wings or drumsticks at Bethesda’s first Korean fried chicken spot. Options such as seafood pancakes, bulgogi and bibimbap are part of the extensive offerings, all served in a hip space with framed record albums gracing the walls. ❂ J L D $$

MON AMI GABI 7239 Woodmont Ave., 301-654-1234, monamigabi. com. Waiters serve bistro classics such as escargot, steak frites and profiteroles in a dark and boisterous spot that doesn’t feel like a chain. Live jazz Tuesday and Thursday nights. ❂ J R L D $$

MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE 7400 Wisconsin Ave., 301-657-2650, mortons. com. An ultra-sophisticated steak house serving pricey, large portions of prime-aged beef and drinks.

The restaurant is known for a top-notch dinner experience but also offers lunch and a bar menu.

L D $$$

MUSSEL BAR & GRILLE 7262 Woodmont Ave., 301-215-7817, musselbar. com. Kensington resident and big-name chef Robert Wiedmaier serves his signature mussels, plus wood-fired tarts, salads and sandwiches. Wash them all down with a choice of 40 Belgian beers, a list that was voted “Best Beer Selection” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2017. ❂ R L D $$

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NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE’S 10400 Old Georgetown Road, 240-316-4555, notyouraveragejoes.com. This Massachusettsbased chain’s moderately priced menu offers burgers, big salads and stone-hearth pizzas, plus entrées including Anything But Average Meatloaf. ❂ J L D $$

OAKVILLE GRILLE & WINE BAR (EDITORS’ PICK) 10257 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 301-897-9100, oakvillewinebar.com. Fresh California food paired with a thoughtful wine list in an elegant, spare setting may not sound unique, but Oakville was one of the first in the area to do so, and continues to do it well. L D $$

OLAZZO (EDITORS’ PICK) 7921 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-9496, olazzo.com.

This well-priced, romantic restaurant is the place for couples seeking red-sauce classics at reasonable prices. Founded by brothers Riccardo and Roberto Pietrobono, it was voted “Best Italian Restaurant”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ L D $$

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Store D, 301-986-0285, ophrestaurants.com. Along with the classic flapjacks on this chain’s menu, you’ll find flavorpacked items such as apple pancakes with a cinnamon sugar glaze. And it’s not just pancakes to pick from: The restaurant serves a variety of waffles, crepes, eggs and omelets. J B L $

PASSAGE TO INDIA (EDITORS’ PICK) 4931 Cordell Ave., 301-656-3373, passagetoindia. info. Top-notch, pan-Indian fare by chef-owner Sudhir Seth, with everything from garlic naan to fish curry made to order. ❂ R L D $$

PASSIONFISH BETHESDA 7187 Woodmont Ave., 301-358-6116, passionfish bethesda.com. The second location of Passion Food Hospitality’s splashy seafood restaurant features stunning coastal-themed décor and an extensive menu of shellfish, caviar, sushi, chef’s specialties and fresh catches of the day. Voted “Best Happy Hour” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018.

J L D $$$

PAUL 4760 Bethesda Ave., 301-656-3285, paul-usa. com. Fifth-generation, family-owned French bakery becomes an international chain, with locations in close to 35 countries. Aside from breads and pastries, look for soups, sandwiches and quiche. ❂BLD$

PENANG MALAYSIAN & THAI CUISINE & BAR 4933 Bethesda Ave., 301-657-2878, penang maryland.com. At this Malaysian spot decorated with exotic dark woods and a thatched roof, spices run the gamut of Near and Far Eastern influence, and flavors include coconut, lemongrass, sesame and chili sauce. L D $$

PINES OF ROME 4918 Cordell Ave., 301-657-8775. Longtime Italian restaurant, formerly on Hampden Lane, still serves traditional pasta, pizza, fish and seafood at prices that are easy on the wallet. The white pizza is a hit, and don’t forget the spaghetti and meatballs.

LD$

PIZZERIA DA MARCO (EDITORS’ PICK) 8008 Woodmont Ave., 301-654-6083, pizzeria damarco.net. Authentic Neapolitan pizzas fired in a 900-degree Italian brick oven range from the Siciliana with eggplant confit and black olives to the Solo Carne with sausage, pepperoni and salame.

Salads, antipasti and calzones available, too. ❂LD$

POSITANO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 4940-48 Fairmont Ave., 301-654-1717, epositano.com. An authentic Italian, family-run restaurant popular for private events, large and small. Colorful rooms are decorated with Italian landscapes, copper pots and hanging plants, and the outdoor patio is one of the most beautiful in the county. ❂ L D $$

PRALINE BAKERY & BISTRO 4611 Sangamore Road, 301-229-8180, praline-bakery.com. This sunny restaurant offers a tempting bakery takeout counter, full dining service and a patio. The food, which includes chicken pot pie and pralines, is French with an American accent. ❂ J B R L D $$

Q BY PETER CHANG (EDITORS’ PICK) 4500 East West Highway, 240-800-3722, qbypeterchang.com. Notable chef Peter Chang’s high-end flagship restaurant offers traditional Chinese dishes in an attractive, modern space.

Peking duck, double-cooked pork belly and other authentic Sichuan cuisine are served, and some dishes are “ultimate spicy” for brave palates. ❂ J L D $$

sushi to kung pao chicken. ❂ L D $$

RICE PADDIES GRILL & PHO 4706 Bethesda Ave., 301-718-1862, ricepaddies grill.com. This cute copper-and-green eat-in/carryout makes quick work of Vietnamese favorites such as pork, beef and vegetable skewers infused with lemongrass and the classic beef noodle soup known as pho. L D $

ROCK BOTTOM RESTAURANT & BREWERY 7900 Norfolk Ave., 301-652-1311, rockbottom. com. India Pale Ales and specialty dark brews are among the award-winning beers crafted in-house at this cavernous yet welcoming chain, which offers a vast menu. The burgers are the real deal. ❂ J L D $$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 7315 Wisconsin Ave., 301-652-7877, ruthschris. com. A dark and clubby feel makes this elegant chain popular with families as well as the happyhour crowd. Don’t skip the fresh seafood choices, which include Caribbean lobster tail and barbecued shrimp. D $$$

SALA THAI

RAKU (EDITORS’ PICK) 7240 Woodmont Ave., 301-718-8680, rakuasian dining.com. Voted “Best Sushi” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018, this casual restaurant has bamboo walls that do little to dampen the noise, but the menu satisfies with everything from

4828 Cordell Ave., 301-654-4676, salathaidc. com. This Thai mainstay cooks the classics and offers diners a nearly panoramic view of Woodmont Avenue through huge, curved windows. Live jazz Friday and Saturday evenings. L D $$

SAPHIRE CAFÉ 7940 Wisconsin Ave., 301-986-9708. A relaxing spot for tasting everything from Maryland-style crab soup to Argentine skirt steak, Saphire pumps it up a notch on Friday and Saturday nights with drink specials and DJs. Tiki bar open Wednesdays through Saturdays. ❂ L D $

SATSUMA 8003 Norfolk Ave., 301-652-1400, satsumajp. com. Bethesda’s first yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) restaurant has built-in grills at each table. Diners select a cut—short rib, chuck rib, skirt or tongue— and prepare it themselves. There’s also an extensive sushi and sashimi menu, as well as interesting cooked dishes. L D $$

SHANGHAI VILLAGE 4929 Bethesda Ave., 301-654-7788. Owner Kwok Chueng prides himself on personal attention and recognizing regulars who have been stopping in for his classic Chinese cooking for more than 25 years.

Order the secret recipe Mai Tai. L D $

SHANGRI-LA NEPALESE AND INDIAN CUISINE 7345-A Wisconsin Ave., 301-656-4444, shangrila bethesda.com. Northern Indian and Nepali specialties such as butter chicken and fresh flatbreads known as naan shine here. The extensive menu ranges from soups and salads to tandoori and kabobs.J L D $

SHARE WINE LOUNGE & SMALL PLATE BISTRO 8120 Wisconsin Ave. (DoubleTree Hotel), 301-652-2000, doubletreebethesda.com/dining.

Exquisite French food, charming atmosphere, and attentive service. In the heart of Chevy Chase, the charm of the country side at your door step.

“La Ferme is one of the area’s most pleasant places to catch up with friends, do business or toast a big day.”

Tom Sietsema, Food critique of the Washington Post (March 4, 2018)

7101 Brookville Road Chevy Chase, MD 301-986-5255

LaFermeRestaurant.com

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dine aspx. Share some buffalo chicken sliders or avocado bruschetta, or go for main courses ranging from Yankee pot roast to cedar plank-roasted salmon. B L D $$

SILVER (EDITORS’ PICK) 7150 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-9780, eatatsilver. com. Upscale, tonier version of the homegrown Silver Diner chain, with modern takes on American classics and an emphasis on healthy, local and organic ingredients. Sleek interior takes its cue from the 1920s. ❂ J B R L D $$

SMOKE BBQ BETHESDA 4858 Cordell Ave., 301-656-2011, smokebbq.com.

Pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked chicken, ribs and all the fixin’s, plus starters including smoked tomato soup and fried pickles served in a friendly, casual space. Delivery available for orders over $15. J L D $

SWEETGREEN 4831 Bethesda Ave.301-654-7336, sweetgreen. com. The sweetgreen fast-casual chain—with its focus on local and organic ingredients— concentrates on salads (devise your own, or pick from a list) and soups. Look for eco-friendly décor and a healthy sensibility. ❂ L D $

TAKO GRILL 4914 Hampden Lane (The Shoppes of Bethesda), 301-652-7030, takogrill.com. Longtime, popular sushi destination relocated to the space formerly occupied by Hinode Japanese Restaurant. Look for the same traditional sushi menu, plus some new options, such as griddle-cooked teppanyaki at lunch, and more varieties of yakitori at dinner. L D $$

TANDOORI NIGHTS 7236 Woodmont Ave., 301-656-4002, tandoorinightsbethesda.com. Located in the heart of downtown Bethesda, the restaurant serves traditional Indian fare ranging from tandoori chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices, to a biryani flavored with saffron, nuts and raisins. ❂ L D $$

TAPP’D BETHESDA 4915 St. Elmo Ave., 240-630-8120, tappdbethesda.com. Beer-centric gastropub offering 40-plus beers on tap, 100-plus bottles and beer flights. Food menu includes standard American fare: soups and salads, char-grilled wings, beer-battered onion rings, burgers, brats and mains such as crabcakes, barbecue ribs and beer-can chicken pot pie. Top it off with a root beer float. ❂ J L D $$

TARA THAI 7101 Democracy Blvd. (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-657-0488, tarathai.com. Thai cuisine goes high style at Bethesda Magazine readers’ pick for “Best Thai Restaurant” in 2018. With colorful murals of ocean creatures looking on, diners can try dishes ranging from mild to adventurous. L D $$

TASTEE DINER 7731 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-3970, tasteediner. com. For 80 years, this crowd-pleasing if slightly sagging spot has served up everything from breakfast to burgers to blue-plate specials such as steak and crabcakes to crowds of loyal customers.

Open 24 hours. J B L D $

THELO GREEK GRILL 8009 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-7335. Greek classics such as gyros and meat skewers are the main offerings at this small full-service restaurant in the former Bistro LaZeez space.

❂ L D $$

TIA QUETA 4839 Del Ray Ave., 301-654-4443, tiaqueta.com.

This longtime family and happy-hour favorite offers authentic Mexican food such as moles and fish dishes, as well as the usual Tex-Mex options. Drink menu includes American and Mexican beers. ❂ J L D $$

TOMMY JOE’S 7940 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-3801, tommyjoes. com. This Bethesda institution is now in the space formerly housing Urban Heights. The second-floor, window-filled corner location suits its sports bar persona, and the vast rooftop is ideal for outdoor drinking and snacking. Fare includes wings (Pohostyle, grilled and smoky, are a good option), burgers, crabcakes and ribs. Chunky brisket chili, on its own or on nachos, is a winner. ❂ L D $$

TRATTORIA SORRENTO (EDITORS’ PICK) 4930 Cordell Ave., 301-718-0344, trattoriasorrento. com. This family-run Italian favorite offers homemade pastas, baked eggplant and fresh fish dishes. Half-price bottles of wine on Wednesdays.

D $$

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 7100 Wisconsin Ave., 240-200-1257, truefoodkitchen.com. Health-focused chain prides itself on serving fresh ingredients and features an open kitchen. The eclectic, multicultural menu changes from season to season, and includes sandwiches, salads and pizza. Beer, wine and freshfruit and vegetable cocktails are also available.

Voted “Best New Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ R L D $

style pizza, pasta and entrées in a casual atmosphere. ❂ L D $$

WILDWOOD KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 10223 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 301-571-1700, wildwoodkitchenrw.com.

Chef Robert Wiedmaier’s attractive neighborhood bistro serving fresh and light modern cuisine.

Entrées range from Amish chicken with a scallion potato cake to grilled Atlantic salmon with creamy polenta. L D $$

WOODMONT GRILL (EDITORS’ PICK) 7715 Woodmont Ave., 301-656-9755, hillstone. com. Part of the Houston’s chain, the eatery offers such classics as spinach-and-artichoke dip and its famous burgers, but also house-baked breads, more exotic dishes, live jazz and a granite bar. Voted “Best Restaurant Service” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ L D $$$

WORLD OF BEER 7200 Wisconsin Ave., 240-389-9317, worldofbeer. com. Craft beer-focused tavern chain offers 50 brews on tap rotating daily and hundreds of bottled options. Food is classic pub fare, including hamburgers, wings and bratwurst sandwiches, as well as flatbreads and salads. ❂ J R L D $

YUZU 7345-B Wisconsin Ave., 301-656-5234, yuzu bethesda.com. Diners will find authentic Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi and cooked tofu, vegetable, tempura, meat and fish dishes, prepared by sushi chef and owner Yoshihisa Ota. L D $$

TYBER BIERHAUS 7525 Old Georgetown Road, 240-821-6830, tyberbierhausmd.com. Czech, German and Belgian brews served in an authentic beer-hall setting, furnished with the same benches as those used in the Hofbrau brewhouse in Munich. Pub menu features mussels, hearty sandwiches, schnitzel and goulash. R L D $$

UNCLE JULIO’S 4870 Bethesda Ave., 301-656-2981, unclejulios. com. Loud and large, this Tex-Mex eatery packs in families and revelers fueling up on fajitas, tacos and more. Kids love to watch the tortilla machine.

Voted “Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2017. ❂ J R L D $$

VILLAIN & SAINT 7141 Wisconsin Ave., 240-800-4700, villainand saint.com. Listen to live music while digging into salt-roasted beets or slow-smoked pork ribs at this hip bar, courtesy of chef Robert Wiedmaier’s RW Restaurant Group. Delightfully dated décor includes lava lamps and photos of late great rock stars.

The menu is divided into hearty dishes (villain) and vegetarian options (saint). ❂ R L D $$

VÜK 4924 St. Elmo Ave., 301-652-8000, vukpinball. com. VÜK owner (and MOM’S Organic Market CEO) Scott Nash consulted restaurateur Mark Bucher for the only thing offered on the short menu of his Bethesda pinball arcade other than Trickling Springs Creamery’s soft-serve ice cream: thin-crust New York-style pizza and thick-crust Sicilian pizza sold by the slice or as whole pies: cheese, sausage, pepperoni and mushroom/onion. L D $

WILDWOOD ITALIAN CUISINE 10257 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 301-493-9230, wildwooditaliancuisine. com. The eatery, owned by the adjacent Oakville Grille & Wine Bar, serves up thick-crusted Sicilian-

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CABIN JOHN FISH TACO 7945 MacArthur Blvd., 301-229-0900, fishtacoonline.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂JLD$

SAL’S ITALIAN KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 7945 MacArthur Blvd., 240-802-2370, salsitalian kitchen.net. Persimmon and Wild Tomato owners Damian and Stephanie Salvatore replaced their Asian concept Indigo House with a return to their roots. Find traditional Italian fare, such as bruschetta, risotto balls, Caprese salad, meatball subs, fettuccine Alfredo, chicken cacciatore and shrimp scampi. ❂ L D $$

WILD TOMATO (EDITORS’ PICK) 7945 MacArthur Blvd., 301-229-0680, wildtomatorestaurant.com. A family-friendly neighborhood restaurant from Persimmon owners Damian and Stephanie Salvatore, serving salads, sandwiches and pizza. Voted “Best Neighborhood Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2017. ❂ J L D $

CHEVY CHASE ALFIO’S LA TRATTORIA 4515 Willard Ave., 301-657-9133, alfios.com.

This Northern Italian classic on the first floor of The Willoughby of Chevy Chase Condominium has been feeding families and casual diners for more than 30 years. Look for traditional pasta, veal and chicken dishes (plus pizza), served in an Old World environment. J L D $$

THE CAPITAL GRILLE 5310 Western Ave., 301-718-7812, capitalgrille. com. The upscale steak-house chain, known for its He-Man-sized portions and extensive wine list, is located in The Shops at Wisconsin Place.Entrées also include chicken, lamb chops, salmon and lobster. L D $$$$

CLYDE’S 5441 Wisconsin Ave., 301-951-9600, clydes. com. The popular restaurant features a frequently changing menu of American favorites and a collection of vintage airplanes and cars, as well as a model train running on a track around the ceiling. ❂ J R L D $$

DON POLLO 7007 Wisconsin Ave., 301-652-0001, donpolloonline.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

LA FERME (EDITORS’ PICK) 7101 Brookville Road, 301-986-5255, laferme restaurant.com. This charming Provence-style restaurant serving classic French cuisine is a popular choice for an intimate dinner. Cognac Le Bar at La Ferme, a bar within the restaurant, opened in fall 2016. The bar serves small plates, and cocktails include the French 75, with cognac, simple syrup, lemon juice and champagne. Voted “Best Romantic Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ R L D $$$

LIA'S (EDITORS’ PICK) 4435 Willard Ave., 240-223-5427, chefgeoff.com.

Owner Geoff Tracy focuses on high-quality, low-fuss modern Italian-American fare at this modern space

Holidays are around the corner what a better way to build memories with Family and Friends then at the table. Treat them to the BEST, Reserve your holiday orders now.

with a wine room. Pizzas, house-made pastas and fresh fish please business lunchers and dinner crowds. Voted “Best Restaurant in Chevy Chase”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2017. ❂JRLD$

MANOLI CANOLI RESTAURANT 8540 Connecticut Ave., 301-951-1818, manolicanoli.com. Italian and Greek specialties abound at a fun family eatery that features a large prepared foods section, dishes made with olive oil from owner Stavros Manolakos’ family farm in Greece and homemade mozzarella on pizza and subs. ❂ J L D $

MEIWAH RESTAURANT 4457 Willard Ave., 301-652-9882, meiwah restaurant.com. This modern restaurant on the second floor of a Friendship Heights office building offers top-quality Chinese dishes that are hard to beat. There’s also a sushi bar with an extensive menu. A fountain sparkles on the outdoor patio. ❂ L D $$

MOBY DICK HOUSE OF KABOB 7023 Wisconsin Ave., 301-654-1838, mobyskabob. com. This kabob takeout/eat-in mainstay was one of the first kabob places in the area. It makes its own pita bread. The menu includes a variety of salads and vegetarian sandwiches and platters.

LD$

PERSIMMON (EDITORS’ PICK) 7003 Wisconsin Ave., 301-654-9860, persimmon restaurant.com. Owners Damian and Stephanie Salvatore’s popular restaurant offers casual fare

from salads to sandwiches to meat and seafood entrées in a bistro setting featuring a lively bar, cozy booths and bright paintings on the walls. ❂ R L D $$

POTOMAC PIZZA 19 Wisconsin Circle, 301-951-1127, potomac pizza.com. This cheery, casual dining room provides a break from the ultra-posh shopping surrounding it. In addition to pizza, subs and pastas are popular.

Beer and wine available. ❂ J L D $

SUSHIKO (EDITORS’ PICK) 5455 Wisconsin Ave., 301-961-1644, sushiko restaurants.com. Known as one of the Washington, D.C., area’s most respected sushi restaurants, Sushiko offers a wide range of sushi and other dishes. Kōbō, a restaurant within the restaurant, allows eight people to dine on 12- to 15-course tasting menus. ❂ L D $$

TAVIRA 8401 Connecticut Ave., 301-652-8684, tavira restaurant.com. Fish stews and several versions of bacalhau (salted cod) figure prominently on the menu of this intriguing Portuguese restaurant, which manages to be charming and attractive despite its location in an office building basement. L D $$

GARRETT PARK BLACK MARKET BISTRO (EDITORS’ PICK) 4600 Waverly Ave., 301-933-3000, blackmarket restaurant.com. Sublime American bistro fare

FRESH NATURAL TURKEYS, PRIME RIB ROASTS, TENDERLOINS, FRENCHED RACKS/CROWN ROASTS, SPECIALTY ITEMS, AND MUCH MORE.

12209 Darnestown Road North Potomac, Maryland 20878 • 301-337-6389

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dine served in a restored Victorian building next to railroad tracks; the building once served as a general store and still houses a post office.

Entrées range from swordfish to a burger and pizza, including several vegetable options. ❂ J R L D $$

KENSINGTON THE DISH & DRAM 10301 Kensington Parkway, 301-962-4046, thedishanddram.com. The owners of The Daily Dish in Silver Spring serve comfort food made with local ingredients in a 2,800-square-foot space in Kensington. Steak frites, Maryland crab soup, burgers and house-made desserts are on the menu. J R L D $$

FRANKLY…PIZZA! (EDITORS’ PICK) 10417 Armory Ave., 301-832-1065, franklypizza. com. Owner Frank Linn turns out high-quality pizza in a rustic brick-and-mortar restaurant. The menu offers wood-fired pies topped with home-cured meats and tomato sauce made from an 80-yearold family recipe. Wines and homemade sodas served on tap, too. Voted "Best Pizza" by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ L D $

K TOWN BISTRO 3784 Howard Ave., 301-933-1211, ktownbistro. com. Try filet mignon, duck breast à l’orange, chicken marsala and other classic continental dishes from this family-run eatery owned by Gonzalo Barba, former longtime captain of the restaurant in the Watergate Hotel. L D $$

NORTH POTOMAC/ GAITHERSBURG &PIZZA 258 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 240-4998447, andpizza.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ LD$

ASIA NINE 254 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 301-3309997, asianinemd.com. Pan Asian restaurant with a first location in Washington, D.C.’s Penn Quarter offers dishes from Vietnam, China, Thailand and Japan. Specialties include grilled lamb chops served with mango-soy coulis and miso honey duck breast drizzled with a sake butter sauce. R L D $$

ATHENS GRILL 9124 Rothbury Drive, 301-975-0757, athensgrill. com. This casual, friendly, family-run restaurant specializes in authentic Greek cooking, using recipes handed down through generations.

Specialties such as rotisserie chicken, chargrilled salmon with a lemon dill sauce and lamb kabobs are cooked on a hardwood grill. L D $

BARKING MAD CAFE 239 Spectrum Ave., 240-297-6230, barkingmad cafe.com. Cooking from a wood hearth and selecting vegetables, herbs and edible flowers from its aeroponic (grown in air/mist but without soil) organic garden, Barking Mad Cafe has a corner spot in Watkins Mill Town Center. Look for madefrom-scratch brunch, lunch and dinner sweets and savories, such as breakfast pizza, watermelon salad and farro salad. ❂ R L D $$

BONEFISH GRILL 82 Market St., 240-631-2401, bonefishgrill. com. While fresh fish cooked over a wood fire is the centerpiece of this upscale Florida chain, the steaks, crab cakes and specialty martinis make it a fun option for happy hour and those with hearty appetites. R L D $$

BUCA DI BEPPO 122 Kentlands Blvd., 301-947-7346, bucadibeppo. com. The Kentlands outpost of this national chain serves huge, family-style portions of Italian specialties from fresh breads to antipasti and pasta dishes amid a sea of Italian kitsch. Desserts include Italian Creme Cake and tiramisu.

J L D $$

CAVA 213 Kentlands Blvd., 301-476-4209, cava.com.

See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

COAL FIRE 116 Main St., 301-519-2625, coalfireonline.com.

Homemade crusts fired by coal and topped with your choice of toppings and three different sauces: classic, spicy and signature, which is slightly sweet with a hint of spice. Salads, sandwiches and pasta also available, plus a full bar. ❂ L D $

COASTAL FLATS 135 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 301869-8800, greatamericanrestaurants.com. First Maryland locale for Great American Restaurants, a Fairfax-based chain. Seaside-inspired décor extends to the menu, which offers lobster and shrimp rolls, fried grouper and Key lime pie. Steaks, pasta and burgers also served. Voted “Best Restaurant in Gaithersburg/North Potomac” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ J R L D $$

COPPER CANYON GRILL 100 Boardwalk Place, 240-631-0003, ccgrill.com.

Large portions of American classics such as salads, ribs and rotisserie chicken prepared with seasonal ingredients at family-friendly prices are the bill of fare at this spacious and casual chain restaurant.

J L D $$

DOGFISH HEAD ALEHOUSE 800 W. Diamond Ave., 301-963-4847, dogfishale house.com. The first Maryland outpost of the popular Rehoboth Beach brewpub, the restaurant is packed with revelers and families clamoring for the Dogfish Head brews, burgers, pizzas and ribs. Check out the burger of the week. ❂ J L D $$

DON POLLO 9083 Gaither Road, 301-990-0981, donpollogroup. com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

FIREBIRDS WOOD FIRED GRILL 390 Spectrum Ave., 301-284-1770, gaithersburg. firebirdsrestaurants.com. Part of a chain, this restaurant in the Watkins Mill Town Center cooks steaks and seafood over a wood-fired grill. Designed to look like a Colorado lodge, the eatery tends toward classic fare for entrées (surf-and-turf, salmon, burgers) and dessert (chocolate cake, Key lime pie, carrot cake). ❂ J L D $$

GREENE GROWLERS 227 E. Diamond Ave., 240-261-6196, greenegrowlers.com. Formerly Growlers, this American restaurant in a turn-of-the-century building in downtown Gaithersburg serves local beers on tap and a full menu with sandwiches, pasta and housemade crabcakes. Occasional events include trivia and standup comedy nights. ❂ J L D $

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GUAPO’S RESTAURANT 9811 Washingtonian Blvd., L-17, 301-977-5655, guaposrestaurant.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂JRLD$

HERSHEY’S RESTAURANT & BAR 17030 Oakmont Ave., 301-948-9893, hersheysat thegrove.com. Fried chicken that tastes like it was made by an aproned elder is served up in a clapboard building constructed in 1889. Besides the fab fried chicken, Hershey’s serves up warm rolls, inexpensive prices and live music. ❂ J B R L D $$

IL PORTO RESTAURANT 245 Muddy Branch Road, 301-590-0735, ilporto restaurant.com. A classic red-sauce menu, elegant murals of Venice and an authentic thin-crust pizza are hallmarks of this friendly, unfussy Italian restaurant tucked in the Festival Shopping Center.

Fried calamari and the white pizza are among customer favorites. ❂ L D $

INFERNO PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA (EDITORS’ PICK) 12207 Darnestown Road, 301-963-0115, inferno-pizzeria.com. Tony Conte, former executive chef of Washington, D.C.’s Oval Room, goes casual with his first restaurant, an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria offering sophisticated toppings such as shaved truffles and garlic confit. Cozy dining room seats 39, with a tiled, wood-burning pizza oven as the centerpiece. D $

THE MELTING POT 9021 Gaither Road, 301-519-3638, themeltingpot. com. There’s nothing like dipping bits of bread, vegetables and apples into a communal pot of hot cheese to get a date or a party started. The Melting Pot chain also offers wine, oil or broth to cook meat tableside and chocolate fondue for dessert.

J D $$

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE’S 245 Kentlands Blvd., 240-477-1040, notyouraveragejoes.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J L D $$

OLD TOWN POUR HOUSE 212 Ellington Blvd. (Downtown Crown), 301-9636281, oldtownpourhouse.com. One of the eateries from Chicago’s Bottleneck Management restaurant company, this place features more than 90 local and international brews on tap. Classic American cuisine is served in a setting with copper-inlaid bars and high ceilings. ❂ L D $$

PALADAR LATIN KITCHEN & RUM BAR 203 Crown Park Ave., 301-330-4400, paladarlatinkitchen.com. This Cleveland-based chain covers the spectrum of Latin cuisine, with dishes from Cuba, the Caribbean and Central and South America. From Brazil, there’s feijoada stew; from Cuba, ropa vieja; and from Jamaica, jerk chicken. Bar selections includes 50 varieties of rum, 15 tequilas and six types of mojitos. ❂ J R L D $$

POTOMAC VILLAGE DELI 625 Center Point Way, 301-299-5770, potomacvillagedeli.com. Traditional Jewish deli in the Kentlands, offering all-day breakfast and all the classics, from bagels, smoked fish, knishes, matzo ball soup, corned beef, pastrami and chopped liver to overstuffed combo sandwiches, Reubens, subs, wraps, burgers, salads, pizza and New York cheesecake. J B L D $$

QUINCY’S BAR & GRILLE 616 Quince Orchard Road, 301-869-8200, quincysgroup.com. Energetic neighborhood pub with a sports bar atmosphere, Quincy’s also has an extensive menu with wings, pizza, build-yourown burgers and chicken sandwiches, plus entrées including Guinness-braised brisket. Live music is also a big draw. L D $

RED HOT & BLUE 16811 Crabbs Branch Way, 301-948-7333, redhotandblue.com. You’ll find generous portions of hickory-smoked barbecue, plus burgers, salads and wraps, and a Southern attitude at this chain popular for its office party takeout and its family-friendly, kitschy roadhouse décor. J L D $

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 106 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 301-9901926, ruthschris.com. See Bethesda listing.

D $$$

SARDI’S POLLO A LA BRASA 430 N. Frederick Ave., 301-977-3222, sardis chicken.com. Yes, there’s charbroiled chicken, but don’t miss the other Peruvian specialties, especially the ceviche and Salchipapas, a true Peruvian street food of thinly sliced pan-fried beef hot dogs mixed with french fries and served with condiments.

LD$

TANDOORI NIGHTS 106 Market St., 301-947-4007, tandoorinightsmd. com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

TARA THAI 9811 Washingtonian Blvd., L-9, 301-947-8330, tarathai.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

TED’S BULLETIN 220 Ellington Blvd. (Downtown Crown), 301990-0600, tedsbulletin.com. First Maryland location of the modern diner chainlet from the folks at Matchbox Food Group. Boozy milkshakes, homemade pop tarts and the Cinnamon Roll As Big As Ya Head (served weekends only) are among the specialties. ❂ J B R L D $$

TED’S MONTANA GRILL 105 Ellington Blvd. (Downtown Crown), 301-3300777, tedsmontanagrill.com. First Maryland location of billionaire and bison rancher Ted Turner’s restaurant chain, which uses bison as the showpiece in a humongous selection of dishes, including burgers, meatloaf, nachos and chili.

Soups, salads, American classics and spiked milkshakes also available at this saloon-style eatery. ❂ J L D $$

THAI TANIUM 657 Center Point Way, 301-990-3699, thaitanium restaurant.com. Authentic Thai food laced with lots of chilies and garlic as hot as you like. Try one of the Thai street food dishes, such as roasted pork with Thai herbed sweet sauce and noodle soups. ❂JLD$

UNCLE JULIO’S 231 Rio Blvd. (RIO Washingtonian Center), 240-6322150, unclejulios.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J R L D $$

VASILI'S KITCHEN 705 Center Point Way, 301-977-1011, vasilis kitchen.com. Tan and brown décor lends a cozy vibe to this 4,700-square-foot Kentlands restaurant.

The owners ran the popular Vasili’s Mediterranean Grill in another Kentlands location for more than a decade before closing it to focus on Vasili’s Kitchen.

The Mediterranean menu is heavy on seafood dishes. ❂ J D $$

THE WINE HARVEST, THE KENTLANDS 114 Market St., 301-869-4008, thewineharvest. com. Stop by this popular Cheers-like wine bar locally owned by the Meyrowitz family for a glass of wine or a Belgian beer. The menu includes salads, sandwiches and cheese plates. ❂ L D $

YOYOGI SUSHI 317 Main St., 301-963-0001. yoyogisushi.wixsite. com/yoyogisushi. A no-nonsense neighborhood sushi place offering the familiar sushi, teriyaki, tempura and green tea or red bean ice cream. ❂ LD$

ZIKI JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE 10009 Fields Road, 301-330-3868, zikisteakhouse. com. This large steak house on a busy corner charms patrons with its fountains, stone Buddhas and geisha mannequins. Food offerings include sushi, as well as meats cooked on a tableside hibachi. J L D $$

POTOMAC ADDIE’S (EDITORS’ PICK) 12435 Park Potomac Ave., 301-340-0081, addies restaurant.com. Longtime North Bethesda restaurant from the Black Restaurant Group that closed in 2013 is reborn in the Park Potomac development. Date nights call for the signature entrées for two. Larger groups might opt for the supreme Seafood Tower, a mega assortment of daily seafood specials. ❂ R L D $$

ATTMAN’S DELICATESSEN 7913 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Shopping Center & Mall), 301-765-3354, cabinjohn.attmansdeli. com. This landmark Baltimore deli has run a second location in Potomac since 2013. The menu offers the same legendary corned beef, pastrami and other deli specialties. Third-generation owner Marc Attman is at the helm. J B L D $

BROOKLYN’S DELI & CATERING 1089 Seven Locks Road, 301-340-3354, brooklyns delimd.com. From chopped liver to chicken soup, Brooklyn’s serves all the deli specialties, plus more.

Think hot pastrami with coleslaw and Russian dressing on pumpernickel. ❂ J B L D $

DON’T LET

OUR NAME FOOL YOU!

CAVA (NEW) 7991 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 301200-5398, cava.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂LD$

ELEVATION BURGER 12525-D Park Potomac Ave., 301-838-4010, elevationburger.com. Fast-food burgers go organic and grass-fed at this Northern Virginia-founded chain. Veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese and a BLT available, too. Shake flavors range from banana to Key lime and cheesecake. ❂LD$

GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA 7745 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Shopping Center & Mall), 301-296-6168, gregoriostrattoria.com.

Proprietor Greg Kahn aims to make everyone feel at home at this family-owned restaurant serving a hit parade of traditional Italian favorites, with all the familiar pasta, pizza, chicken, veal and seafood dishes; the gluten-free menu offers pizza, cheese ravioli and quinoa pastas. J L D $$

Yes, our oysters are awesome but there’s a lot more you’ll absolutely love: • Fresh local seafood • Burgers, tacos & salads • Weekend brunch

YOUR “GO TO” SPOT IN CATHEDRAL COMMONS & CABIN JOHN SHOPPING CENTER WWW.THEGRILLEDOYSTERCOMPANY.COM

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dine THE GRILLED OYSTER CO. (EDITORS’ PICK) 7943 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Shopping Center & Mall), 301-299-9888, thegrilledoyster company.com. This Chesapeake-style seafood eatery features small plates, salads, sandwiches and entrées. The sampler of four grilled oysters— with ingredients such as coconut rum and cucumber relish—showcases the namesake item. ❂ J R L D $$

GRINGOS & MARIACHIS (EDITORS’ PICK) 12435 Park Potomac Ave., 301-339-8855, gringosandmariachis.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂D$

HUNTER’S BAR AND GRILL 10123 River Road, 301-299-9300, thehuntersinn. com. At this Potomac institution and popular English hunt-themed spot, try a big salad or hamburger for lunch and a traditional pasta dish or filet mignon for dinner with the family. ❂ J R L D $$

LAHINCH TAVERN AND GRILL 7747 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Shopping Center & Mall), 240-499-8922, lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

The menu of this sister restaurant to The Irish Inn at Glen Echo commingles Irish standards (traditional sausage roll, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, lamb stew) with fare such as Alaskan halibut.

Lahinch is a coastal town in Ireland’s County Clare.

J R L D $$$

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN (NEW) 7991 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 240205-7429, lepainquotidien.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J B R L D $

LOCK 72 KITCHEN & BAR (EDITORS’ PICK) 10128 River Road, 301-299-0481, lock72.com.

Well-known chef Robert Wiedmaier’s RW Restaurant Group runs this upscale American pub (formerly called River Falls Tavern). Entrées include panroasted duck breast, crabcake, rockfish and New York strip steak. ❂ R L D $$

MOCO’S FOUNDING FARMERS 12505 Park Potomac Ave., 301-340-8783, wearefoundingfarmers.com. Farm-inspired fare in a modern and casual setting; this is the sister restaurant to the phenomenally popular downtown D.C. Founding Farmers. Bethesda Magazine readers chose it as “Best Restaurant in Potomac,” "Best Cocktails" and "Best Brunch" in 2018. Try the warm cookies for dessert. ❂ B R L D $$

NORMANDIE FARM RESTAURANT 10710 Falls Road, 301-983-8838, popovers.com.

This fine-dining French restaurant, open since 1931, strives to preserve its classical heritage while embracing new traditions. Dinner entrées run from seafood to beef and lamb. The restaurant offers quick service, a casual café option and a violinist at afternoon tea. ❂ J R L D $$

O’DONNELL’S MARKET 1073 Seven Locks Road, 301-251-6355, odonnells market.com. This market, from the family that ran O’Donnell’s restaurants in Montgomery County for decades, features a 10-seat bar for lunch and happy hour (11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.). The menu includes a raw bar, salads and many O’Donnell’s classics, among them a lump-filled crabcake sandwich, salmon BLT, seafood bisque and crab gumbo. ❂L$

OLD ANGLER’S INN 10801 MacArthur Blvd., 301-365-2425, oldanglers inn.com. Open since 1860 and known for its

refined American food and beautiful fireplaces and grounds, it features live music on weekends.

Signature cocktails include hard cider sangria and a pumpkin pie martini. Voted “Best Outdoor Dining”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ R L D $$$

POTOMAC PIZZA 9812 Falls Road, 301-299-7700, potomacpizza. com. See Chevy Chase listing. J L D $

RENATO’S AT RIVER FALLS 10120 River Road, 301-365-1900, renatosatriver falls.net. The Italian restaurant offers fish dishes among its menu of pastas and classics such as penne with eggplant, and chicken parmigiana.

Traditional Italian desserts include tiramisu, profiteroles and cannolis. ❂ J L D $$

SUGO OSTERIA 12505 Park Potomac Ave., 240-386-8080, eatsugo. com. The Greek guys who own CAVA Mezze and CAVA partner with Mamma Lucia restaurants to serve Italian small plates, meatballs, sliders, pizza and pasta. Chef specialities include blue crab gnocchi and charred octopus. ❂ R L D $$

TALLY-HO RESTAURANT 9923 Falls Road, 301-299-6825, tallyhorestaurant. com. A local fixture since 1968, the eatery serves an expansive diner-style menu with Greek and Italian specialties. Choose from options ranging from burgers and deli sandwiches to pizza, calzones and dinner entrées. ❂ J B L D $

THE WINE HARVEST 12525-B Park Potomac Ave., 240-314-0177, thewineharvest.com. See Gaithersburg listing. ❂LD$

ZOËS KITCHEN 12505 Park Potomac Ave., Suite 115, 240-3281022, zoeskitchen.com. A fast-casual restaurant, Zoës features Mediterranean dishes such as kabobs, hummus and pita sandwiches. It specializes in takeout dinner for four for under $30. ❂ JLD$

ROCKVILLE/ NORTH BETHESDA A & J RESTAURANT (EDITORS’ PICK) 1319-C Rockville Pike, 301-251-7878, aj-restaurant. com. Northern dim sum is the specialty at this hard-to-find cash-only spot in the Woodmont Station shopping center. Warm-colored walls surround the crowd digging into thousand-layer pancakes and fresh tofu. R L D $

AKIRA RAMEN & IZAKAYA 1800 Rockville Pike, 240-242-3669, akiraramen. com. This minimalist Japanese eatery serves house-made noodles and vibrant food such as a poke salad. The sleek establishment, located on the first floor of the Galvan at Twinbrook building, features an open kitchen and several variations of ramen to choose from. L D $

AL CARBÓN 200 Park Road, 301-738-0003, alcarbonrestaurant. com. Serving authentic Latin American fare across the street from the Rockville Metro station, this unassuming roadhouse has a loyal following for its arepas, empanadas, tapas and more. Try one of the

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natural juices including mango and tamarindo.

❂BLD$ AL HA'ESH

4860 Boiling Brook Parkway (Randolph Hills Shopping Center), 301-231-0839, al-haesh.com.

Kosher Israeli grill serves vegetable and protein skewers (including chicken, lamb, beef, chicken livers and sweetbreads). All entrées come with small ramekins of salads (think curried chickpeas; marinated red cabbage; and balsamic marinated mushrooms). ❂ L D $$

AMALFI RISTORANTE ITALIANO 12307 Wilkins Ave., 301-770-7888, amalfirockville. com. A family-run, red-sauce Italian restaurant with specialties including white pizza and lasagna. Lots of antipasti choices, too. The gazebo is a charming spot to dine during the summer.

J L D $$

AMICI MIEI RISTORANTE 6 North Washington St., 301-545-0966, amicimieiristorante.com.Previously located at the Potomac Woods Plaza, this upscale Italian restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas and creative salads. The new, smaller establishment is cozier than the last with a menu that changes twice a year. L D $

AMINA THAI RESTAURANT 5065 Nicholson Lane, 301-770-9509. Pleasant and bright, Amina Thai is run by a husband-andwife team and bills itself as the first Muslim Thai restaurant in the area, using only halal meats and serving familiar Thai dishes. Chef’s specials include pineapple fried rice and grilled salmon. L D $

&PIZZA 11626 Old Georgetown Road (Pike & Rose), 240621-7016, andpizza.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂LD$

BARONESSA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1302 E. Gude Drive, 301-838-9050, baronessarestaurant.com. Pizzas made in a woodburning oven and more than two dozen Italian entrées star on the menu at this 100-seat stripmall restaurant. Trivia nights and kids pizza-making classes are offered. J R L D $$

THE BIG GREEK CAFÉ 4007 Norbeck Road, 301-929-9760; 5268 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-4976, biggreekcafe.com.

See Bethesda listing. L D $

BOB'S SHANGHAI 66 305 N. Washington St., 301-251-6652. Dim sum and rice and noodle dishes are the specialties at this popular eatery offering Taiwanese, Shanghai and Sichuan cuisine. It’s also one of the area’s top destinations for soup dumplings, where you can even watch the chefs making them in a glassenclosed booth. R L D $

BOMBAY BISTRO 98 W. Montgomery Ave., 301-762-8798, bombaybistro.com. Bombay Bistro opened in 1991 as one of the first Indian restaurants in the area to combine high style, reasonable prices and a fresh take on traditional Indian, and it has been packed ever since. House specialties include tandoori lamb chops and shrimp and scallops masala. J L D $$

BONCHON CHICKEN 107 Gibbs St., Unit A (Rockville Town Square), 301637-9079, bonchon.com. International fried chicken franchise with Korean roots serves up wings, drumsticks and strips with soy-garlic or spicy hot garlic sauce, plus other traditional offerings such as

bulgogi, bibimbap and scallion seafood pancakes.

LD$

BOTANERO 800 Pleasant Drive, Suite 160, 240-474-5461, botanerorockville.com. Located in the King Farm neighborhood, this small plates restaurant and wine bar features cuisine that changes seasonally.

Some recent offerings include a fig and prosciutto flatbread and quinoa grilled salmon. B L D $

CAVA 12037 Rockville Pike (Montrose Crossing), 240235-0627; 28 Upper Rock Circle, 301-200-5530; cava.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

CAVA MEZZE (EDITORS’ PICK) 9713 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-309-9090, cavamezze.com. The dark and elegant CAVA Mezze offers small plates of everything from fried Greek cheese, octopus and orzo in cinnamon tomato sauce to crispy pork belly and macaroni and cheese. There are martini specials, too. ❂ R L D $$

CHINA BISTRO 755 Hungerford Drive, 301-294-0808. Extensive Chinese menu features many familiar favorites, but this is the place to go for dumplings. With tender dough wrappers and chock-full interiors, these beauties come 12 to an order and with 16 different filling choices. Fresh, uncooked dumplings are also available for carryout. L D $

CHUY’S 12266 Rockville Pike (Federal Plaza), 301-6032941, chuys.com. Drawing inspiration from New Mexico, Mexican border towns, the Rio Grande Valley and Texas’s deep south, Chuy’s is part of a family-friendly chain that serves up a Tex-Mex experience. Colorful food meets colorful décor, where “If you’ve seen one Chuy’s, you’ve seen one Chuy’s” rings true—eclectic collectibles give each location its own flair. Free chips are served out of a car trunk display. L D J $

CITY PERCH KITCHEN + BAR 11830 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-2312310, cityperch.com. Located above the entrance to the iPic Theaters at Pike & Rose, City Perch offers creative, seasonal American cuisine in a rustic, inviting space. The menu includes raw-bar selections, small plates, shareable salads and entrée options such as grilled shrimp and Long Island duck. ❂ R L D $$$

THE CUBAN CORNER 825 Hungerford Drive, 301-279-0310, cubancornerrestaurant.com. Pork and empanadas shine at this small space brimming with ethnic pride (there’s a tribute wall to famous Cuban-Americans).

Don’t skip the Cuban coffee or the Cuban sandwich, a sub bursting with ham, pickles and tangy mustard.

LD$

CSNY PIZZA 1020 Rockville Pike, 301-298-3650, csnypizza. wixisite.com/sneaksite. Carry out a New York-style pizza from this spot by the owners of Pizza CS. Their second Rockville location also offers six seats for guests to dine in, and serves whole pies, hot subs and pizza by the slice. L $

DEL FRISCO’S GRILLE 11800 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-8810308, delfriscosgrille.com. This is the Texasbased chain’s second location in the area. Look for upscale takes on American comfort foods, such as filet mignon meatloaf and short rib stroganoff, plus

trendy items such as kale and Brussels sprouts salad, deviled eggs, flatbreads and ahi tuna tacos.

Plenty of burgers, sandwiches and salads, too. ❂ R L D $$

DON POLLO 2206 Veirs Mill Road, 301-309-1608, donpollogroup.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

EAST PEARL RESTAURANT 838-B Rockville Pike, 301-838-8663, eastpearl restaurant.com. Choose from many options of Hong Kong cuisine, including familiar dishes featuring chicken, beef, poultry, pork and even duck, as well as those for adventurous tastes. Try the soups ranging from egg drop to seafood with bean curd.

LD$

EL MARIACHI RESTAURANT 765-D Rockville Pike, 301-738-7177, elmariachi rockville.com. Serving Tex-Mex and South American food in a bright, pleasant space made lively with colorful art. In addition to the usual enchiladas, tacos and burritos, look for Peruvian seafood and Cuban beef specialties. L D $

EL PATIO 5240 Randolph Road, 301-231-9225. This bustling café with pretty green umbrellas on the patio serves up the traditional meat-heavy dishes of Argentina, as well as pizzas and freshly made baked goods.

Look for mouth-watering empanadas, beef tongue and sausage specialties. ❂ J B L D $

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FAR EAST RESTAURANT 5055 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-5552, fareastrockvillemd.com. Owned and operated by the same family since 1974, this classic Chinese restaurant greets customers with two royal stone lions out front and sticks to the familiar ChineseAmerican basics. Check out the daily specials and dim sum menu. L D $$

FINNEGAN’S WAKE IRISH PUB 100 Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-3398267, finneganswakerockville.com. Irish pub with a nice selection of bourbons, whiskeys and Irish beers and a very limited bar menu offering such fare as bangers and mash, poutine (french fries, gravy and cheese curds), a chicken club sandwich, fish and chips, wings and a burger. L D $

FLOR DE LUNA 11417 Woodglen Drive, 240-242-4066, flordeluna md.com. Latin American fare includes tamales and lomo saltado (a stir-fry of beef and peppers) at this 75-seat restaurant near Whole Foods Market.

Tacos, nachos and quesadillas are also in the lineup. Finish off your meal with the tres leches (three milks) cake. ❂ J R L D $$

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FONTINA GRILLE 801 Pleasant Drive, 301-947-5400, fontinagrille. com. A trendy spot with its curvy maple bar and wood-burning pizza oven, Fontina Grille is a favorite gathering place for the King Farm neighborhood.

Pizza, pasta and salads are the main attractions.

Three-dollar pasta dishes available on Monday nights and half-price bottles of wine on Tuesdays. ❂ J R L D $$

GORDON BIERSCH 200-A E. Middle Lane (Rockville Town Square), 301340-7159, gordonbiersch.com/restaurants. The national brewpub chain prides itself on house beers and friendly service. The shiny bar is boisterous, and the menu includes bar favorites with some barbecue and Asian touches, small plates, salads, pizza and flatbreads. J L D $$

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197 Halltown Road, Harpers Ferry, WV 304-535-8120 . M/Th/F 10 am-5 pm Sat/Sun 8 am-5 pm . Closed Tu/W

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dine GRAND FUSION CUISINE 350 East Fortune Terrace, 301-838-2862, grand fusionrestaurant.com. Diners will find something for everyone seeking a taste of the Asian continent, a full sushi bar, and Chinese, Malaysian and Singaporean specialties. Chef’s specials include Crispy Eggplant in Spicy Orange Sauce and Double Flavored Shrimp. ❂ L D $

GYROLAND 1701-B3 Rockville Pike, 301-816-7829, gyrolandmd.com. Build-your-own salads, open-face and wrapped sandwiches, and other Greek choices star at this fast-casual spot near Congressional Plaza. For dessert, Gyroland serves loukoumades, a bite-size fluffy Greek doughnut soaked in hot honey syrup. L D $

HARD TIMES CAFÉ 1117 Nelson St., 301-294-9720, hardtimes.com.

Good American beer selections, hearty chili styles ranging from Cincinnati (cinnamon and tomato) to Texas (beef and hot peppers), and hefty salads and wings bring families to this Wild West-style saloon for lunch and dinner. L D $

HINODE JAPANESE RESTAURANT 134 Congressional Lane, 301-816-2190, hinode restaurant.com. Serving traditional Japanese cuisine since 1992. All-you-can-eat lunch and weekend dinner buffet offers 40 types of sushi, 14 hot foods and a salad bar. Check out the patio with full bar service. L D $$

IL PIZZICO 15209 Frederick Road, 301-309-0610, ilpizzico. com. Setting aside the strip mall location and lack of pizza (il pizzico means “the pinch” in Italian), chef-owner Enzo Livia’s house-made pasta dishes, gracious service and extensive wine list of mainly Italian wines make even a weeknight meal feel special. L D $$

JINYA RAMEN BAR (NEW) 910 Prose St. (Pike & Rose), 301-816-3029, jinyaramenbar.com. A 74-seat eatery that’s part of a chain, Jinya serves 12 different types of ramen, ranging from the classic wonton chicken to a creamy vegan option. Try the Jinya Mini Tacos, which come with a choice of salmon poke, pork chashu and kimchee, or spicy tuna. J L D $

JOE’S NOODLE HOUSE 1488-C Rockville Pike, 301-881-5518, joesnoodlehouse.com. Chinese ex-pats and many other customers consider the Sichuan specialties (soft bean curd with spicy sauce and hot beef jerky) among the area’s best examples of gourmet Chinese cooking. L D $

KUYA JA’S LECHON BELLY 5268-H Nicholson Lane, 240-669-4383, kuyajas. com. This fast-casual restaurant that started as a pop-up in the Rockville area specializes in serving lechon, a Filipino pork belly dish. Chef and owner Javier J. Fernandez, a native of the Philippines, shares the flavors of his home country through ricebowls, spiced wings and homemade pastries.

LD$

LA BRASA LATIN CUISINE 12401 Parklawn Drive, 301-468-8850, labrasa rockville.com. A bold, yellow awning marks the unlikely industrial location of the popular La Brasa.

Customers rave about the rotisserie chicken, lomo saltado (Peruvian marinated steak), Salvadoran pupusas and Tres Leches. ❂ L D $

LA CANELA (EDITORS’ PICK) 141-D Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-2511550, lacanelaperu.com. Sophisticated, modern Peruvian cooking shines in a regally furnished dining room in a yellow stucco building graced with curvy black ironwork. The menu includes artfully prepared seafood, pork, chicken and beef dishes. ❂ L D $

LA LIMEÑA GRILL 1093 Rockville Pike, 301-417-4922. An offshoot of nearby La Limeña Restaurant, this Peruvian eatery with a spacious patio serves several traditional seafood dishes, including Ceviche Mixto, an appetizer of lime-marinated tilapia served with glazed potatoes and crispy dried corn kernels.

The Chicha Morada, a sweet corn-based drink, pairs nicely with authentic and tender braised-beef entrées. ❂ J L D $$

LA LIMEÑA RESTAURANT 765 Rockville Pike, 301-424-8066, lalimena restaurant.com. Diners can choose dishes such as beef hearts, tripe and homemade pastries in this tiny but well-appointed eatery. Desserts include passion fruit mousse and vanilla flan. And of course, there’s rotisserie chicken to go. L D $

LA TASCA 141 Gibbs St., Suite 305 (Rockville Town Square), 301-279-7011, latascausa.com. The Rockville location of this regional chain strives to keep things interesting with 45 tapas dishes and six kinds of paella, including Paella Mixta with chicken, shrimp, chorizo, scallops, mussels, squid and clams. ❂ R L D $$

LEBANESE TAVERNA CAFÉ 1605 Rockville Pike, 301-468-9086; 115 Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-309-8681; lebanesetaverna.com. A casual and pleasant family spot for lunch or dinner after shopping on Rockville Pike, the café is a more casual offshoot of the local Lebanese Taverna chain, serving hummus, pita, falafel, chicken and lamb kabobs. J L D $

LIGHTHOUSE TOFU & BBQ 12710 Twinbrook Parkway, 301-881-1178. In addition to the numerous tofu dishes ranging from Mushroom Tofu Pot to Seafood Beef Tofu Pot, diners at this Korean stalwart can try barbecue, stirfried specialties and kimchee, the national dish of pickled cabbage. L D $

LITTLE DIPPER HOT POT HOUSE 101 Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-6057321. An offshoot of an Asian restaurant in Virginia, this 90-seat restaurant serves individual fonduestyle meals. Pick a pot base (including miso and curry), the level of spiciness, the protein and the starch (either rice or noodles), and cook your food right at your table in a bowl of hot stock. J L D $$

MAMMA LUCIA 12274-M Rockville Pike, 301-770-4894; 14921-J Shady Grove Road, 301-762-8805; mammalucia restaurants.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

MATCHBOX VINTAGE PIZZA BISTRO (EDITORS’ PICK) 1699 Rockville Pike, 301-816-0369, matchbox restaurants.com. Look for mini-burgers, a “ginormous meatball” appetizer and thin-crusted pizza with toppings including herb-roasted chicken and portobella mushrooms or fire-roasted red peppers and Spanish onions served in a super-cool space in Congressional Plaza. ❂ J R L D $

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MISSION BBQ 885 Rockville Pike, 301-444-5574, mission-bbq. com. This outpost of a national chain, known for its support of U.S. military troops and veterans, serves its barbecue—including brisket, ribs and pulled pork—alongside a slew of add-your-own sauces.

Come for lunch and stay to recite the national anthem at noon. J L D $

MOA 12300 Wilkins Ave., 301-881-8880, moakorean restaurant.weebly.com. A welcoming Korean restaurant in the midst of an industrial stretch.

Try the seafood pancake appetizer—a satisfying, crispy frittata bursting with squid, clams, shrimp and scallions. Dol Sot Bibimbap, a mix of rice, vegetables and protein in a hot pot, is a customer favorite. L D $

MODERN MARKET 1627 Rockville Pike (Congressional Plaza), 301603-2953, modernmarket.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J B R L D $

MOSAIC CUISINE & CAFÉ 186 Halpine Road, 301-468-0682, mosaiccuisine. com. A diner with a soft European accent. Try the fresh Belgian waffles for breakfast. For those with hefty appetites, the waffle sandwiches are worth the trip, but don’t overlook the homemade soups or light dinner entrées. J B R L D $$

MYKONOS GRILL 121 Congressional Lane, 301-770-5999, mykonosgrill.com. An authentic Greek taverna with whitewashed walls with Mediterranean blue accents on a busy street, Mykonos Grill turns out legs of lamb and fresh seafood expected at any good Greek restaurant. ❂ L D $$

NAGOYA SUSHI 402 King Farm Blvd., Suite 130, 301-990-6778, nagoyasushirockville.com. Cheery yellow walls decorated with shelves of Japanese knickknacks greet customers who come for the large selection of sushi at this unassuming sushi spot in King Farm.

L D $$

NANTUCKET’S REEF 9755 Traville Gateway Drive, Rockville, 301279-7333, nantucketsreef.com. This casual New England-style eatery offers a wide range of reasonably priced seafood dishes, including raw and baked oysters, stuffed cod, fried Ipswitch clams, seafood tacos, tuna and salmon salads, and lobster items. Signature cocktails are made with Nantucket Nectars juices. ❂ R L D $$

NICK’S CHOPHOUSE 700 King Farm Blvd., 301-926-8869, nickschop houserockville.com. Aged Angus beef cooked over an open fire is the specialty at this upscale spot, but seafood lovers can get their fill from big crabcakes.

Signature steaks include slow-roasted prime rib weighing 10 to 32 ounces. Separate bar menu. ❂ L D $$

NIWANO HANA JAPANESE RESTAURANT 887 Rockville Pike, 301-294-0553, niwanohana. com. Clean Asian décor and elegant wooden screens greet diners at this friendly and busy sushi spot located in Wintergreen Plaza. There are the usual sushi rolls, plus creative options such as a Spicy Scallop Roll with mayonnaise and chili peppers, noodle dishes, teriyaki and yakitori.

L D $$

FINE ITALIAN FOOD MADE FRESH DAILY

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE 12224 Rockville Pike, 301-468-0886, ophrestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing. This location stays open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. J B L D $

OWEN’S ORDINARY (EDITORS’ PICK) 11820 Trade St. (Pike & Rose), 301-2451226, owensordinarymd.com. This Americanstyle restaurant, barroom and beer garden from Neighborhood Restaurant Group boasts 50 rotating drafts and more than 150 types of bottled beer. The 175-seat restaurant serves salads, burgers, beef, pork and fondue entrées, and those looking to grab a drink can make the most of the space’s 60-seat beer garden. ❂ R L D $$

PETER CHANG (EDITORS’ PICK) 20-A Maryland Ave. (Rockville Town Square), 301838-9188, peterchangarlington.com. Chef Peter Chang’s Sichuan specialties are showcased in an apricot-walled dining space. Garnering a cult-like following over the years, Chang is best known for dishes such as dry-fried eggplant, crispy pork belly and duck in a stone pot. L D $$

PHO 75 771 Hungerford Drive, 301-309-8873. The restaurant is one of the Washington area’s favorite spots for the Vietnamese beef noodle soup known as pho. Soup can be customized with bean sprouts, Thai basil, chilies, lime, and hot and hoisin sauces.

Beverages include interesting options such as Iced Salty Pickled Lemon Juice. L D $

PHO 95 785-H Rockville Pike, 301-294-9391. Pho, the Vietnamese beef noodle soup, is king here. Other offerings include fat rice-paper rolls of shrimp, noodles and herbs with a sweet and spicy peanut sauce, Grilled Lemon Grass Chicken and Grilled Pork Chop and Shredded Pork Skin. L D $

PHO HOA BINH 11782 Parklawn Drive, 301-770-5576. This pleasant pho restaurant offers the full gamut of variations on the beef noodle soup, plus about a dozen grilled entrées. The Adventurer’s Choice features “unusual” meats, including tendon, tripe and fatty flank. The Vietnamese iced coffee is divine. L D $

PHO NOM NOM 842 Rockville Pike, 301-610-0232, phonomnom. net. As the name suggests, the specialty is pho, but there are also grilled dishes, noodles and the Vietnamese sandwich known as banh mi. House specials include Vietnamese beef stew and pork and shrimp wontons. L D $

PHOLUSCIOUS VIETNAMESE GRILL 10048 Darnestown Road, 301-762-2226, pholuscious.com. This casual restaurant and bar is home to traditional Vietnamese cooking, with fresh ingredients, minimal use of oil and many herbs and vegetables. The menu features pho, noodle dishes, rice plates and lots of protein dishes. Beverages include bubble tea, smoothies, beer and wine.

L D $$

PIZZA CS 1596-B Rockville Pike, 240-833-8090, pizzacs.com.

Authentic Neapolitan pies are offered in a sub-shop atmosphere. Choose from a list of red and white pizza options, or build your own pie with herbs, cheeses, meats and vegetables. ❂ J L D $

POTOMAC PIZZA 9709 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-279-2234, potomacpizza.com. See Chevy Chase listing. ❂ JLD$

Catering available anytime for any occasion Private parties | Family style dinners | Opera Night

QUINCY’S SOUTH BAR & GRILLE 11401 Woodglen Drive, 240-669-3270, quincysgroup.com. See North Potomac/ Gaithersburg listing. ❂ L D $

ROLLS ‘N RICE 1701 Rockville Pike (Shops at Congressional Village), 301-770-4030, rollsnrice.com. This Asian café serves more than 25 varieties of rolls, from a volcano roll (spicy tuna, white fish, salmon, tomato, jalapeño, fish eggs and vegetables) to a Philadelphia Roll (smoked salmon, cream cheese and avocado). J L D $

SADAF HALAL RESTAURANT 1327-K Rockville Pike, 301-424-4040. An elegant alternative to the run-of-the-mill kabob places dotting Rockville Pike, Sadaf is pristine, with lace curtains and glass mosaic tiles in front. In addition to kabobs, it offers Persian curries and fish dishes. ❂ JLD$

SAM CAFÉ & MARKET 844 Rockville Pike, 301-424-1600, samcafemarket. com. Fill up on the kitchen’s juicy skewered meats or interesting entrées, including pomegranate molasses stew and marinated grilled salmon, then have a gelato and check out the hookahs. ❂ LD$

SEASONS 52 11414 Rockville Pike, 301-984-5252, seasons52. com. A fresh, seasonal menu featuring items under 475 calories. Choose from flatbreads including Blackened Steak & Blue Cheese and Grilled Garlic Pesto Chicken to entrée salads to meat and seafood dishes. Nightly piano music. ❂ L D $$

SHANGHAI TASTE 1121 Nelson St., 301-279-0806. Co-owner and chef Wei Sun, a Shanghai native, specializes in preparing three different flavors of soup dumplings at this small restaurant in a strip mall. The menu also includes traditional Chinese-American dishes, such as General Tso’s chicken and fried rice.

LD$

SHEBA RESTAURANT 5071 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-8882, sheba rockville.com. The menu features authentic Ethiopian cuisine with lots of vegetarian and vegan options. House specialties include Dulet Assa, chopped tilapia mixed with onion, garlic and jalapeño and served with a side of homemade cheese. L D $

SICHUAN JIN RIVER 410 Hungerford Drive, 240-403-7351, sichuanjin river.com. Customers find terrific Sichuan cuisine served in a no-frills setting. Take the plunge and try something new with the authentic Chinese menu, including 23 small cold plates. L D $

SILVER DINER 12276 Rockville Pike, 301-770-2828, silverdiner. com. Customers flock to this trendy diner that still offers tableside jukeboxes. The latest food trends (think quinoa coconut pancakes) share company on the enormous menu with diner staples such as meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

JBRLD$

SPICE XING 100-B Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-6100303, spicexing.com. Chef and owner Sudhir Seth, who also owns Bethesda’s Passage to India, serves up small plates and dishes that reflect the history of culinary influences on India. Try the all-you-can-eat lunchtime buffet. ❂ J R L D $$

STANFORD GRILL 2000 Tower Oaks Blvd., 240-582-1000, thestanford grill.com. From the Blueridge Restaurant Group, owner of Copper Canyon Grill restaurants, comes this 300-seat American eatery on the ground floor of an office building. Salads, burgers, steaks and seafood, plus sushi, with an eye toward high quality. ❂ R L D $$

STELLA BARRA PIZZERIA 11825 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-7708609, stellabarra.com. Adjacent to its sister restaurant, Summer House Santa Monica, Stella Barra is an artisan pizzeria with a hip, urban vibe.

Look for crisp crusts with chewy centers topped with butternut squash and candied bacon or housemade pork sausage and fennel pollen. Italian wines available. ❂ R D $$

SUMMER HOUSE SANTA MONICA (EDITORS’ PICK) 11825 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301881-2381, summerhousesm.com. An airy, light and stunning space sets the scene for modern American cuisine with a West Coast sensibility.

Fare includes salads, sushi, tacos, sandwiches and steak frites. Do not miss the bakery counter. Voted “Best Restaurant in Rockville/North Bethesda” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ J R L D $$

SUPER BOWL NOODLE HOUSE 785 Rockville Pike, 301-738-0086, superbowl noodlehouse.com. Look for a large variety of Asian noodle dishes in super-size portions, plus a wide selection of appetizers. Also, bubble tea and desserts, including Sweet Taro Root Roll and Black Sugar Shaved Ice. ❂ L D $

SUSHI DAMO 36-G Maryland Ave. (Rockville Town Square), 301340-8010, sushidamo.com. A slice of New York sophistication, this elegant restaurant offers sushi à la carte or omakase, chef’s choice, plus beef and seafood entrées and an impressive sake list.

L D $$

SUSHI HOUSE JAPANESE RESTAURANT 1331-D Rockville Pike, 301-309-0043, sushihouse1331.com. A tiny, plain restaurant serving a large selection of fresh sushi, including sushi and sashimi combinations. Lunch specials for under $7. It’s popular, so be prepared to wait.

L D $$

SUSHI OISHII 9706 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-251-1177, sushioishii.com. This charming sushi bar in the Traville Gateway Center offers friendly service and

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dine 24 specialty sushi rolls, bento boxes and a few grilled items, including beef, poultry and seafood teriyaki. L D $$

TAIPEI TOKYO 14921-D Shady Grove Road (Fallsgrove Village Center), 301-738-8813; 11510-A Rockville Pike, 301-881-8388; taipei-tokyo.net. These sister restaurants offer a sizable roster of Chinese, Japanese and Thai dishes. The Fallsgrove Village location is the younger and sleeker of the two, with full sit-down service. The older sister, opened in 1993, is more like a noodle shop/cafeteria.

L D $$

TARA THAI 12071 Rockville Pike, 301-231-9899, tarathai.com.

See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

TEMARI CAFÉ 1043 Rockville Pike, 301-340-7720. Deep-fried oysters, classic rice balls, ramen noodle soup, sushi and sashimi and comic books to peruse while you await your order set this Japanese restaurant apart from the rest. L D $$

THAI FARM 800 King Farm Blvd., 301-258-8829, thaifarm restaurant.com. A tastefully modern dining room soaked in a soothing yellow light. The usual suspects are on the menu here, but chef’s suggestions include an intriguing broiled fish wrapped in banana leaf and stir-fried duck. L D $$

THAI PAVILION 29 Maryland Ave., Unit 308 (Rockville Town Square), 301-545-0244, thaipavilionrestaurant.com. The soaring ceilings decorated with red chandeliers shaped like giant, stationary spinning tops give the feel of a modern museum. When the menu says spicy, believe it. ❂ J L D $$

THAT’S AMORE 15201 Shady Grove Road, 240-268-0682, thatsamore.com. This local chain focuses on familystyle portions of classic Neapolitan dishes such as lasagna and chicken Parmesan in a more elegant setting than might be expected. Good for groups and large families. J L D $$

TOWER OAKS LODGE 2 Preserve Parkway, 301-294-0200, clydes.com/ tower. Here is Clyde’s version of a lodge in the mountains. Well-prepared food runs the gamut of American desires, from burgers to fish, plus a raw bar. Check out the twig sculpture spanning the ceiling of The Saranac Room. Voted “Best Restaurant Décor” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. J R L D $$

TRAPEZARIA 11 N. Washington St., 301-339-8962, thetrapezaria. com. This down-to-earth and hospitable Greek/ Mediterranean restaurant serves top-notch and unfussy small plates and entrées. Choose among a variety of dips, vegetarian mezze, souvlaki, sausages and more-involved fish and lamb dishes.

Save room for the baklava. L D $$

URBAN BAR-B-QUE COMPANY 2007 Chapman Ave., 240-290-4827; 5566 Norbeck Road, 301-460-0050, urbanbbqco.com. Urban BarB-Que Company, a tiny joint run by a couple of local friends, has a winning formula and features fingerlicking ribs, burgers and wings, plus salads, chili and smothered fries. Staff is friendly, too. J L D $

URBAN HOT POT 1800 Rockville Pike, 240-669-6710, urbanhotpot. com. On the first floor of the Galvan at Twinbrook building, this hot pot spot features a conveyor belt where food travels to diners. A prix fixe all-you-caneat menu allows you to create your meal at your table using one of the stationed iPads. Choose from a selection of noodles, vegetables and meat to add to a bowl of hot stock, then do it again if you’re still hungry. L D $

VILLA MAYA 5532 Norbeck Road (Rock Creek Village Center), 301-460-1247. Here you’ll find all the traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites from quesadillas to fajitas that are sure to please the whole family.

R L D $$

THE WOODSIDE DELI 4 N. Washington St., 301-444-4478, thewoodside deli.com. A second location of the venerable Silver Spring eatery and caterer that has been dishing up matzo ball soup since 1947. Choose from a wide selection of sandwiches, burgers and entrées. This one has a pickle bar. ❂ J B R L D $

WORLD OF BEER 196B East Montgomery Ave., 301-340-2915, worldofbeer.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ JRL D $

YEKTA 1488 Rockville Pike, 301-984-1190, yekta.com.

Persian cuisine, including a selection of beef, chicken and lamb kabobs, is served in a beautiful dining room. Try a dessert such as frozen noodle sorbet or saffron ice cream. Check out the adjacent market after polishing off your kabob. L D $$

YUAN FU VEGETARIAN 798 Rockville Pike, 301-762-5937, yuanfuvegetarian.com. From tea-smoked “duck” to kung pao “chicken,” the whole menu is meatless, made from Chinese vegetable products. There is a large selection of chef’s specials, including Pumpkin Chicken with Mushrooms in a hot pot and Baby Abalone in Tomato Sauce. L D $

SILVER SPRING ADDIS ABABA 8233 Fenton St., 301-589-1400, addisababa cuisine.com. Authentic Ethiopian-style vegetables and fiery meats are served atop spongy bread in communal bowls. Traditional woven tables and a roof deck add to the ambience. There’s a weekday lunch buffet, too. ❂ RLD$

ALL SET RESTAURANT & BAR 8630 Fenton St., 301-495-8800, allsetrestaurant. com. American cuisine with a focus on New England specialties. Look for clams, oysters and lobster, plus crab cakes and rockfish, and beef and vegetarian options. The snazzy space is also the setting for clam bakes and fried chicken on Sunday nights. ❂ J R L D $$

AMINA THAI 8624 Colesville Road, 301-588-3588, aminathai silverspring.com. See Rockville/North Bethesda listing. L D $

AZÚCAR RESTAURANT BAR & GRILL 14418 Layhill Road, 301-438-3293, azucarrestaurant.net. The name means sugar, and it fits: The colorful Salvadoran spot is decorated in

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bright purple and orange with Cubist-style paintings.

The pork-stuffed corn pupusas are stars. Also look for more elegant dinners, including fried whole trout.

L D $$

BETE ETHIOPIAN CUISINE 811 Roeder Road, 301-588-2225, beteethiopia. com. Family-run Ethiopian restaurant with a modest dining room but some exemplary cooking. Don’t miss the vegetarian sampler, and in nice weather, opt for eating outside in the lovely, shaded back patio. ❂ J B L D $$

THE BIG GREEK CAFÉ 8223 Georgia Ave., 301-587-4733, biggreekcafe. com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

BUENA VIDA 8407 Ramsey Ave., 301-755-6132, buenavidarestaurant.com. The second-floor fullservice restaurant (its sister restaurant Tacos, Tortas & Tequila fills the first floor) has a menu with à la carte items, or you can pay a set price for unlimited Mexican small plates. Offerings include ceviche, guacamole, salads, tacos and enchiladas.

The space is light-filled, with vibrant murals and a 720-bottle tequila and wine rack. R L D $$

CAVA 8515 Fenton St., 301-200-8666, cava.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

COPPER CANYON GRILL 928 Ellsworth Drive, 301-589-1330, ccgrill.com.

See Gaithersburg listing. ❂ J R L D $$

CRISFIELD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 8012 Georgia Ave., 301-589-1306, crisfieldseafood.com. With its U-shaped counter and kitschy, oyster-plate-covered walls, this landmark seafood diner has customers lining up for the Eastern Shore specialties such as oysters and crabmeat-stuffed lobster that it has served since the 1940s. L D $$

CUBANO’S 1201 Fidler Lane, 301-563-4020, cubanos restaurant.com. The brightly colored tropical dining room and the authentic Cuban cooking evident in dishes such as ropa vieja (shredded beef in onions, peppers and garlic) and fried plantains keep customers coming back. ❂ L D $$

THE DAILY DISH 8301 Grubb Road, 301-588-6300, thedailydish restaurant.com. A neighborhood favorite serving seasonally inspired, locally sourced comfort food, including bar bites and brunch dishes. Full-service catering is available, too. ❂ J R L D $$

DENIZENS BREWING CO. (EDITORS’ PICK) 1115 East West Highway, 301-557-9818, denizens brewingco.com. The bright-orange building houses Montgomery County’s largest brewery, featuring core beers and seasonal offerings, along with drafts from other regional breweries. Menu of snacks, sandwiches and salads includes vegetarian options.

There is a large outdoor beer garden and indoor seating overlooking the brewery. ❂ D $

DON POLLO 12345 Georgia Ave., 301-933-9515; 13881 Outlet Drive, 240-560-7376, donpollogroup.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

EGGSPECTATION 923 Ellsworth Drive, 301-585-1700, eggspectation. com. This Canadian import features fresh and creative egg plates in an elegant yet casual dining room complete with a fireplace and colorful

Harlequin-themed art. It also serves great salads, dinners and dessert. ❂ B L D $$

EL AGUILA RESTAURANT 8649 16th St., 301-588-9063, elaguilarestaurant. com. A cheery bar and generous plates of TexMex favorites such as enchiladas and Salvadoran seafood soup make this eatery popular with families and others looking for a lively night out. ❂ L D $

EL GAVILAN 8805 Flower Ave., 301-587-4197, gavilan restaurant.com. The walls are bright, the music’s upbeat, the margaritas are fine and the service is friendly. The usual Tex-Mex fare is here, as well as Salvadoran specialties such as tasty cheese- or pork-filled pupusas. J L D $

EL GOLFO 8739 Flower Ave., 301-608-2121, elgolforestaurant. com. Friendly, home-style Latin service is the hallmark, as attested to by the many Salvadorans who stop in for lunch and dinner. Pupusas, soups and beef dishes such as carne asada as well as more adventurous choices can be found in the charming, raspberry-colored dining room. ❂ JRLD$

ETHIO EXPRESS GRILL 952 Sligo Ave., 301-844-5149. Ethiopian food goes fast-casual in this counter service eatery that offers your choice of carbohydrate bases (i.e., injera, rice, pasta), plus grilled meats (or tofu), sauces and lots of vegetables (the spicy lentils and yellow split peas are especially good). L D $

FENTON CAFÉ 8311 Fenton St., 301-326-1841, fentoncafesilver spring.com. An out-of-the-way crêperie serving 31 kinds of sweet crêpes and 16 varieties of savory crêpes. Savory versions range from cheese and ham to roasted eggplant with zucchini, bell pepper, sundried tomato, garlic and onion. B L D $

FIRE STATION 1 RESTAURANT & BREWING CO. 8131 Georgia Ave., 301-585-1370, firestation1. com. A historic firehouse made over as an eatery serves 21st-century pizza, sandwiches, meat, seafood and vegetarian entrées. Try the Cuban sandwich with seasoned pork, chipotle mayo, Dijon mustard, pickles and Swiss cheese on a ciabatta roll. L D $

GHAR-E-KABAB 944 Wayne Ave., 301-587-4427, gharekabab.com.

In the heart of downtown Silver Spring, Ghar-EKabab offers a mix of authentic Indian and Nepali cuisine. From Indian staples such as chicken tikka masala and lamb curry to Nepalese appetizers such as furaula (vegetable fritters) and cho-e-la (marinated duck), this intimate joint presents a variety of South Asian flavors. J L D $$

THE GREEK PLACE 8417 Georgia Ave., 301-495-2912, thegreekplace. net. Here are big portions of better-than-average food at reasonable prices. The bifteki pita sandwich, a seasoned ground lamb and beef patty with tzatziki, tomatoes and red onions, is especially good. L D $

GUSTO FARM TO STREET 8512 Fenton St., 301-565-2800, eatgusto.com.

See Bethesda listing. ❂ J L D $

HEN QUARTER 919 Ellsworth Drive, 240-247-8969, henquarter. com. An outpost of a restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia, Hen Quarter focuses on Southern

fare, such as shrimp and grits, and chicken and waffles. The space includes rustic décor and garage windows that roll back for open-air views of Downtown Silver Spring’s fountain. The bar pours 75 types of bourbon and other whiskeys, as well as craft beer and wine. ❂ J R L D $$

ITALIAN KITCHEN 8201 Fenton St., 301-588-7800, italiankitchenmd. com. Casual, attractive pizzeria with bar seating also turns out homemade sandwiches, calzones, salads and pasta dishes. Pizza and paninis are top notch. L D $

JEWEL OF INDIA 10151 New Hampshire Ave., 301-408-2200, jewelofindiamd.com. Elegant décor and excellent northern Indian cuisine make this shopping center restaurant a real find. Diners will find a good selection of curries, and rice and biryani dishes.

L D $$

KAO THAI 8650 Colesville Road, 301-495-1234, kaothai restaurant.com. This restaurant turns out top-notch curries, noodle dishes and vegetarian options, plus house specialties, such as Siam Salmon with Spicy Thai Basil Sauce and Thai Chili Tilapia. Dishes are cooked medium spicy. ❂ L D $$

LA CASITA PUPUSERIA & MARKET 8214 Piney Branch Road, 301-588-6656, lacasita pupusas.com. Homemade pupusas, tamales and other Salvadoran specialties are available, plus a full breakfast menu and a small selection of grocery items. B L D $

LA MALINCHE 8622 Colesville Road, 301-562-8622, lamalinche tapas.com. Diners will find an interesting selection of Spanish and Mexican tapas, plus a full Saturday and Sunday brunch featuring huevos rancheros, variations of tortillas Espanola and more.

R L D $$

LANGANO ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 8305 Georgia Ave., 301-563-6700, langano restaurant.com. Named for the popular Ethiopian vacation spot, Lake Langano, this longtime restaurant offers fine Ethiopian cuisine such as doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and tibs (stewed meat) in a cozy white- and red-accented dining room. Lunch specials on weekdays. L D $

LEBANESE TAVERNA CAFÉ 933 Ellsworth Drive, 301-588-1192, lebanese taverna.com. See Rockville listing. J L D $

LINA'S DINER AND BAR (EDITORS’ PICK) 8402 Georgia Ave., 240-641-8061, linasdiner.com.

The casual diner features a blend of American and French-inspired options, from frisée aux lardons (salad topped with bacon and egg) to double cheeseburgers. Eclectic, Bohemian décor adorns the walls of the dining room. J L D $$

LUCY ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 8301 Georgia Ave., 301-589-6700. See Bethesda listing. L D $

MAMMA LUCIA 1302 East West Highway, 301-562-0693, mammaluciarestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

MANDALAY RESTAURANT & CAFÉ 930 Bonifant St., 301-585-0500, mandalay restaurantcafe.com. The modest dining room is packed most evenings with families and large

groups who come for the Burmese food, a cross between Indian and Thai. L D $

MCGINTY’S PUBLIC HOUSE 911 Ellsworth Drive, 301-587-1270, mcgintys publichouse.com. Traditional Irish pub and restaurant features corned beef and cabbage, live music and dancing. Early-bird special, three-course menu for $15, from 5 to 7 p.m. ❂ J R L D $$

MELEKET 1907 Seminary Road, 301-755-5768, meleketrestaurant.com. This family-owned, Ethiopian-Italian restaurant serves classic vegetarian, beef and chicken Ethiopian plates, alongside Italian entrées such as pesto pasta with chicken. For breakfast, try a traditional Ethiopian dish of kinche (a buttery grain porridge) or firfir (bread mixed with vegetables in a red pepper sauce). B L D $

MI RANCHO 8701 Ramsey Ave., 301-588-4872, miranchotexmexrestaurant.com. You'll find a boisterous party atmosphere every night at a place where customers can count on standard Tex-Mex fare at good prices. The outdoor patio, strung with colorful lights, is the place to be in nice weather. ❂ LD$

MIX BAR & GRILLE 8241 Georgia Ave., #200, 301-326-1333. Modern American bistro with charcuterie and cheese plates, brick-oven flatbreads, ceviche and other light fare.

Look for lots of wines by the glass and beers on tap. ❂  R L D $$

MOD PIZZA 909 Ellsworth Drive, 240-485-1570, modpizza.com.

First Maryland location of this Bellevue, Washingtonbased chain offers design-your-own fast-casual pies (hence, Made on Demand, or MOD). Pizzas, cooked at 800 degrees for three minutes, can be topped with a choice of nearly 40 sauces, cheeses, meats, spices and veggies. ❂ L D $

MRS. K’S RESTAURANT 9201 Colesville Road, 301-589-3500, mrsks.com.

Here’s an elegant, antique-filled option for special occasions and brunch. This historic restaurant beckons a younger crowd with the Wine Press, a European-style wine bar downstairs, which has its own more casual menu. ❂ R L D $$$

NAINAI’S NOODLE & DUMPLING BAR 1200 East West Highway, 301-585-6678, nainaisnoodles.com. Sisters Joanne and Julie Liu serve homemade noodles and dumplings in this lovable fast-casual eatery that shares a kitchen with their Scion restaurant next door. Focus on the noodles, and bring a photo of your “Nainai” (grandmother in Chinese) to tack on the bulletin board. L D $

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE'S 8661 Colesville Road, 240-839-3400, notyouraveragejoes.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J L D $$

OLAZZO (EDITORS’ PICK) 8235 Georgia Ave., 301-588-2540, olazzo.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J L D $

PACCI’S NEAPOLITAN PIZZERIA (EDITORS’ PICK) 8113 Georgia Ave., 301-588-1011, paccispizzeria. com. This stylish eatery turns out top-notch pizzas from a wood-burning oven. Choose from red or white pizza selections, plus four kinds of calzones. ❂ JLD$

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dine PACCI’S TRATTORIA & PASTICCERIA 6 Old Post Office Road, 301-588-0867, paccis trattoria.com. Diners will find a range of classic Italian dishes, including homemade meatballs and sausage, from the owner of Pacci’s Neapolitan Pizzeria, also in Silver Spring. L D $$

PARKWAY DELI & RESTAURANT 8317 Grubb Road, 301-587-1427, theparkway deli.com. Parkway features a bustling back dining room that makes this popular spot so much more than a deli. Longtime waitresses greet regular customers and kids with hugs during busy weekend breakfasts. All-you-can-eat pickle bar. ❂ B L D $

PHO HIEP HOA 921-G Ellsworth Drive, 301-588-5808, phohiephoa. com. Seventeen kinds of Vietnamese soup called pho can be customized to taste in this upbeat restaurant overlooking the action in the downtown area. ❂ L D $

PHO TAN VINH 8705-A Colesville Road, 301-588-8188, photanvinh. com. A family-owned Vietnamese restaurant, Pho Tan Vinh was opened in 2014 by Tiffany Chu, who sought the traditional food she ate in her youth.

She and her chef mother serve emergent classics such as pho and put their own spin on items such as the Tan Vinh special, a “deconstructed” banh mi sandwich. L D $

PORT-AU-PRINCE AUTHENTIC HAITIAN CUISINE 7912 Georgia Ave., 301-565-2006, paphaitiancuisine.com. The eatery serves a small menu of Haitian fare: five appetizers, five entrées (plus an entrée salad) and two desserts. Chicken wings, fritters, whole red snapper, fried turkey and legume casserole are among the highlights. A Sunday brunch buffet draws crowds. See our review on page 282. R D $$

QUARRY HOUSE TAVERN 8401 Georgia Ave., 301-844-5380, facebook. com/quarryhouse. Closed for nearly three years after a fire, this basement-level dive bar reopened in its original space. The inside holds the same 1930s-era feel as the original bar, and burgers and Tater Tots are still on the menu. D $

SAMANTHA’S 631 University Blvd. East, 301-445-7300, samanthasrestaurante.com. This white-tablecloth, Latin-Salvadoran spot in an industrial neighborhood is popular because of its welcoming attitude toward families with young children. The steak and fish specialties are good. L D $$

SCION 1200 East West Highway, 301-585-8878, scionrestaurant.com. A contemporary American eatery from sisters Joanne and Julie Liu, who also own a popular Dupont Circle restaurant with the same name and Nainai’s Noodle & Dumpling Bar in Silver Spring. Look for everything from wasabi Caesar salad to crab Reuben to spicy yogurt chicken. J R L D $$

SERGIOS RISTORANTE ITALIANO 8727 Colesville Road, 301-585-1040. A classic red-sauce Italian restaurant that manages to feel special, with soothing wall murals and high-quality service, despite a basement location inside the DoubleTree Hotel. Ravioli with asparagus and cheese in a tarragon sauce is popular. L D $$

THE SOCIETY RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 8229 Georgia Ave., 301-565-8864, societyss. com. A sleek and modern atmosphere catering to a

nightlife crowd, Society offers fare with a Caribbean accent. Check out the rooftop seating and daily drink specials, which include $25 beer buckets. ❂ L D $$

SUSHI JIN NEXT DOOR 8555 Fenton St., 301-608-0990, sushijinnextdoor. com. The eatery is spare, clean and modern, and offers terrific udon noodle soup and impeccable raw fish. Choose from 11 appetizers and seven soups and salads. L D $$

SWEETGREEN 8517 Georgia Ave., 301-244-5402, sweetgreen. com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

TACOS, TORTAS & TEQUILA 8407 Ramsey Ave., 301-755-6132. Also called TTT, this first-floor fast-casual spot is below its fancier sister restaurant, Buena Vida. The focus is on quesadillas, tortas and tacos—beef tongue, duck carnitas and house-made chorizo among them.

There’s a full-service bar and an outdoor patio. ❂ BLD$

TASTEE DINER 8601 Cameron St., 301-589-8171, tasteediner. com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J B L D $

THAI AT SILVER SPRING 921-E Ellsworth Drive, 301-650-0666, thaiatsilver spring.com. The Americanized Thai food is second to the location, which is superb for people-watching on the street below. A modern and stylish dining room with a hip bar in bold colors and good service add to the appeal. ❂ L D $$

URBAN BAR-B-QUE COMPANY 10163 New Hampshire Ave., 301-434-7427, urban bbqco.com. See Rockville listing. L D $

URBAN BUTCHER (EDITORS’ PICK) 8226 Georgia Ave., 301-585-5800, urbanbutcher. com. Hip, eclectic setting is the backdrop for this New Age steak house, with its home-cured salamis, sausages and other charcuterie, plus meat dishes made from local animals of yesteryear breeds.

There’s a lounge, bar, meat curing room, retail counter and dining area. Voted “Best Restaurant in Silver Spring” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. R D $$

URBAN WINERY 949 Bonifant St., 301-585-4100, theurbanwinery. com. Silver Spring residents Damon and Georgia Callis open the first and only urban winery in the midAtlantic area. Tasting facility offers craft wines made with local and international grapes, and customers can even create their own wines (by appointment).

Light menu includes artisan cheese, charcuterie and smoked seafood platters, plus Greek mezze. D $

VEGETABLE GARDEN 3830 International Drive (Leisure World Plaza), 301598-6868, vegetablegarden.com. The popular vegan, vegetarian and macrobiotic Asian restaurant features a wide variety of eggplant and asparagus dishes, plus vegetarian “beef,” and “chicken” dishes often made with soy and wheat gluten. L D $$

VICINO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 959 Sligo Ave., 301-588-3372, vicinoitaliano.com.

A favorite neighborhood red-sauce joint that hasn’t changed in decades, Vicino features some fine seafood choices in addition to classic pasta dishes.

Families are welcome. ❂ L D $ $

THE WOODSIDE DELI 9329 Georgia Ave., 301-589-7055, thewoodside deli.com. See Rockville listing. J B L D $

306 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

UPPER NW D.C. ARUCOLA 5534 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-244-1555, arucola. com. The restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine in a casual setting, with a changing menu that includes creative treatment of traditional dishes, homemade pasta and pizza from the wood-burning oven. ❂ L D $ $

THE AVENUE 5540 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-244-4567, theavenuedc.com. A family-friendly neighborhood restaurant and bar with dishes such as crab pasta, poutine, burgers and baby back ribs. Fun décor includes classic posters and a giant magnetic scrabble board. ❂ J B L D $$

BLUE 44 5507 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-362-2583, blue44dc.com. The menu features classic American favorites infused with the flavors of Italy and France, including ratatouille, pork schnitzel and bouillabaisse. ❂ J R L D $$

BUCK’S FISHING AND CAMPING 5031 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-364-0777, bucksfishingandcamping.com. Diners can enjoy a seasonal menu that changes daily, and offers hip takes on comfort food such as roast chicken (locally raised) in an artsy-chic setting. D $$$

CAFÉ OF INDIA 4909 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-244-1395, cafeofindiadc.com. Here’s a cute corner café with two levels of dining and an extensive menu that includes vegetarian and tandoori entrées, dosas, samosas, tikkas, curries and kabobs. ❂ L D $$

CHATTER 5247 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-362-8040, chatterdc. com. A group that includes Gary Williams, Maury Povich, Tony Kornheiser and Alan Bubes bought this neighborhood hangout in 2017 and renovated it while maintaining its Cheers-like atmostphere. It offers a full menu beyond bar food, including salads, steaks, seafood and sandwiches. ❂ R L D $$

COMET PING PONG (EDITORS’ PICK) 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-364-0404, cometpingpong.com. Landmark fun spot where you can play ping-pong or admire local art while you wait for your wood-fired pizza. Choose from over 30 toppings to design your own pie. ❂ R L D $

DECARLO’S RESTAURANT 4822 Yuma St. NW, 202-363-4220, decarlosrestaurant.com. This is a family-owned neighborhood staple, with a traditional Italian menu and upscale/casual atmosphere. Signature dishes include agnolotti, veal scallopini, broiled salmon and hand-made pasta. ❂ L D $$

GUAPO’S RESTAURANT 4515 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-686-3588, guaposrestaurant.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ R L D $$

JAKE’S AMERICAN GRILLE 5018 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-966-5253, jakesdc. com. Burgers, steaks and sandwiches are served in a restaurant named after the owner’s grandfather, an accomplished Navy test engineer. Check out the Boiler Room, a sports bar in the basement.

J R L D $$

JETTIES 5632 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-364-2465, jettiesdc.com. See Bethesda listing. J L D $

Thanksgiving Montgomery County

PARADE

Saturday, November 17, 2018 . 10 AM Downtown Silver Spring On Georgia Avenue from Ellsworth Drive to Silver Spring Avenue

Free! ¡Gratis!

silverspringdowntown.com montgomerycountymd.gov/rec 240.777.0331 en Español 420.777.6839 @mocorec

dine LE CHAT NOIR 4907 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-244-2044, lechatnoirrestaurant.com. This cute, cozy neighborhood bistro is run by French restaurateurs, who cook traditional fare such as steak frites, bouillabaisse and braised lamb cheeks. R L D $$

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN 4874 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-459-9141, lepainquotidien.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ JBRLD$

LITTLE BEAST CAFÉ & BISTRO (NEW) 5600 Connecticut Ave. NW, littlebeastdc.com. In the earlier part of the day, Little Beast’s offerings include house-made pastries, Red Velvet Cupcakery cupcakes, quiche and coffee from Hyattsville-based Vigilante. Later on, find pizza cooked in a woodburning oven, sharable dishes such as Brussels sprouts and entrées including spicy lamb ragu. ❂ J B L D $$

MACON BISTRO & LARDER (EDITORS’ PICK) 5520 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-248-7807, macon bistro.com. Southern and French cuisine converge at this airy, charming restaurant in the historic Chevy Chase Arcade. Appetizers include raclette and fried green tomatoes, and steak frites is offered alongside short ribs with grits for main courses.

Voted “Best Restaurant in Upper Northwest D.C.” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2018. ❂ R D $$

MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY 5333 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-966-5500, maggianos.com. The restaurant features oldstyle Italian fare that’s a favorite for large groups and private celebrations. Check out the signature flatbreads and specialty pastas, including lobster carbonara. J R L D $$

MASALA ART (EDITORS’ PICK) 4441-B Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-362-4441, masalaartdc.com. Here is fine Indian dining featuring tandoor-oven specialties and masterful Indian spicing. Start off by choosing from a selection of nine breads and 17 appetizers. L D $$

MILLIE’S (EDITORS’ PICK) 4866 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-733-5789, milliesdc.com. This eatery in the Spring Valley neighborhood may be from up north—it’s the second location of a popular Nantucket restaurant—but its flavors are distinctly south-of-the-border. The menu offers coastal takes on tacos, quesadillas and salads that are as summery as the bright, nautical décor of the dining room. ❂ J R L D $$

PARTHENON RESTAURANT 5510 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-966-7600, parthenon-restaurant.com. This is a neighborhood eatery taken up a couple notches, with an extensive menu full of authentic selections familiar and exotic, including avgolemono (egg/lemon soup), tzatziki, moussaka, dolmades and souvlaki. ❂ L D $$

PETE’S NEW HAVEN STYLE APIZZA 4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-237-7383, petesapizza.com. The crunchy-crusted New Havenstyle pizzas can be topped with a choice of almost three dozen ingredients. There's also pasta, panini, salads and house-made desserts. ❂ J L D $

SATAY CLUB ASIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR 4654 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-363-8888, asiansatayclub.com. The restaurant prides itself on providing a comfortable/casual setting with a menu that spans Japanese sushi, Chinese moo-shi vegetables, Thai curries and Vietnamese spring rolls. L D $

TANAD THAI 4912 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-966-0616. The extensive menu ranges from noodles, rice and curries to vegetarian entrées, and even a Thai lemonade cocktail. House specialties include pad Thai and Drunken Noodles. ❂ L D $$

TARA THAI 4849 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-363-4141, tarathai.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

WAGSHAL’S RESTAURANT 4855 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-363-5698, wagshals.com. Longtime popular deli expands grocery and carryout section, and adds a casual sit-down restaurant in the Spring Valley Shopping Center. Same high-quality fare, including the overstuffed sandwiches. L D $ ■

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Salons & Spas PROFILES

Salon Jean & Day Spa

7945 MacArthur Blvd. | Cabin John, MD 20818 301-320-5326 | www.salonjean.com 308 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

TONY J. LEWIS

Salon Jean & Day Spa offers an extensive slate of services including: cuts, color, styling, facials, waxing, message, manicure, pedicure, makeup, semi-permanent eyelashes, microdermabrasion treatments and a vast retail selection.

Deeply invested in its community—Salon Jean raises money for local pet charities through an annual rescue dog calendar—the entire space is intimate and cozy as well as pet friendly.

“We’re a community salon,” says owner Jean Bae. “Everyone here knows one other because most of our customers live within a five-mile radius and we’ve been here over 10 years now.”

Salon Jean is a L’Oreal Professionnel Concept salon specializing in color treatments—stylists keep current with trends and techniques through yearly continuing education. Bae and her team of skilled certified estheticians offer advanced skin treatments and customized Dermalogica facial services.

Clients can enjoy the best of both worlds with a color/spa package.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES

Salons & Spas

Kindle & Boom Salon

LISA HELFERT

JENNY SHYU & KIRK RUBIN “I’ve always been interested in textures and colors,” says Jenny Shyu, co-owner of Kindle & Boom.

Shyu wanted to be a hairdresser from an early age,but went to college to appease her family. She majored in studio art. “After I graduated I went straight to hair school and pursued it full force,” she says. Shyu’s background in oil and canvas informs her career as a hairdresser. “Hair is pretty much just a canvas in front of you,” says Shyu.

Shyu’s business partner and husband, Kirk Rubin, has a different story. Rubin’s mother was friends with hair dressers, so he was exposed to the industry as a child. “I grew up in that circle,” says Rubin.

“I didn’t want the same life as everyone else.” Rubin moved to New York City and got a job on Wall Street. But when someone from the industry told Rubin he’d make a great hairdresser, Rubin was drawn in. “At the end of the day, there’s nothing better than making someone feel truly happy with themselves,” he says. “I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Though they sit on opposite sides of the salon, Rubin and Shyu share what they learn from their experiences. Social media helps them keep up with trends: inverted lobs, face framing highlights for fall and winter. But most integral to their salon, Rubin and Shyu agree, is the positive experience they provide for their customers. “We take the extra initiative,” says Shyu. “When I’m at home, I think about my clients. I ask how their family is doing. When they’re sick, I check in on them. I have a relationship with them. I have a history with them.”

“At the end of the day, there’s nothing better than making someone feel truly happy with themselves.”

180 Halpine Road Rockville, MD 20852 301-770-0404 www.kindleandboom.com

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Salons & Spas

PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Salon Central GAIL COHEN, OWNER

310 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

“I like to think of my salon company as a sanctuary, a place where guests can come to feel pampered and taken care of for the hour or two they’re with us.”

10317 Westlake Drive Bethesda, MD 20817 301-767-1077 www.saloncentralbethesda.com

ERICK GIBSON

A visit to Salon Central, conveniently located near Montgomery Mall, provides our “guests” with a break from the hectic, fast pace of daily life, says owner Gail Cohen. In the salon’s “relaxed and welcoming” atmosphere, guests will feel comfortable and stress free while the versatile, experienced and knowledgeable Salon Central team of stylists works its magic.

“I like to think of my salon company as a sanctuary, a place where guests can come to feel pampered and taken care of for the hour or two they’re with us,” says Cohen. “We want to create an experience. It begins when they walk in, with a friendly greeting—we offer them a beverage—a tour of the salon, an in-depth consultation and relaxing shampoo and scalp massage.”

Creating each guest’s ultimate customized look and desired image is a collaborative effort.

Salon Central’s perceptive and detail-oriented stylists, who keep current with the industry’s evolving techniques and trends, spend time familiarizing themselves with their clients’ wants and needs, taking into consideration individual features, personalities and lifestyles.

From haircuts to blow drys with beachy waves, foil highlights or hand painted balayage, there is nothing the Salon Central team can’t do, says Cohen. In 2018, the salon was voted “A Top Vote Getter” for “Best Salon” by Bethesda Magazine readers for the eighth consecutive year.

All new guests receive $30 off a color service and a gift bag with product samples, as well as a personal thank you note from Cohen and vouchers, including complimentary treatments, retail discounts and other services, to use on future visits.

“Our goal is to have our guests leave with a huge smile,” says Cohen.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES

Salons & Spas

Massage Envy WENDY MUHAMMAD, FRANCHISEE PARTNER Massage Envy in downtown Silver Spring is an urban oasis. Located just off the corner of Georgia Avenue and Wayne Avenue, the clinic is surrounded by over 40 stores, restaurants and lots of heavy traffic. But you wouldn’t know it standing in the sleek, open concept lobby with purple accents, beautiful windows and modern light fixtures. “The décor helps people to relax and experience a sense of openness,” says Wendy Muhammad, a partner in the franchise. “Once you come inside, it’s like you’re not even in a busy urban area.”

The location of the clinic allows for a diverse group of clients. “We are fortunate to serve a very open, progressive and exciting group of people”, Wendy says. That’s important to Wendy and her business partner, Dr. Jeffery Dormu, who both value making wellness affordable and accessible. “We really do believe in helping you to make wellness a part of your lifestyle,” she says.

The clinic is over 6,000 square feet and includes 16 service rooms and a small library for staff education. Services include full-body massage, total-body stretch, skin-care treatments and facial waxing. Each experience is customized to maximize client benefits. The staff that performs these services have been carefully chosen and trained. “We take great pride in hiring professionals who are committed to their craft and who live and breathe wellness,” says Wendy. “We’re excited to be of service and encourage you to stop by and experience Massage Envy Downtown Silver Spring”

LISA HELFERT

“We really do believe in helping you to make wellness a part of your lifestyle.”

Downtown Silver Spring 955 Wayne Ave. Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-264-5154 www.massageenvy.com/SilverSpring BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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O’HAIR Salon + Spa

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“We’re constantly striving to provide the highest quality service through continuing education, passion for the art and true care for others.”

424 Main St. Gaithersburg, MD 20878 301-977-0800 www.ohairsalon.com

HEATHER FUENTES

From the grandeur of its neoclassical-style decorum to the wide-ranging mix of music, eclectic collection of artwork and the way the O’HAIR Salon + Spa team fits into its community—hosting inhouse concerts and charity events, among other outreach programs—the studio’s innovative culture lends itself to a “non-traditional” salon environment, says General Manager Carlin Combs. Yet, while constantly encouraging fashion-forward thinking and creativity among its extensively trained stylists and technicians, O’HAIR’s fundamental concept remains quite simple: The moment clients walk through the front door, they’ve entered a relaxing haven, fit for rejuvenation and transformation.

“One of the best parts of what we do is we get the opportunity to create change,” Combs says. “A new hairstyle can completely transform the face. A facial treatment can restore the skin’s natural glow.

A new makeup regimen can lead the way for the next step in someone’s life. Although it’s an outer change, the positivity radiates from all aspects of the individual.”

O’HAIR was built on a foundation of education, teamwork and consistency. Every new, carefully selected stylist and technician is offered a training program to ensure a consistent client experience.

The goal, Combs says, is to provide the highest quality service through continuing education, passion for the art and true care for others.

“Education is one of our core values,” Combs says. “Our team maintains their education internally and externally every year, so they can bring the freshest perspective and newest techniques to each individual and offer an unparalleled level of expertise.”

The salon’s non-tipping policy further perpetuates its team-oriented atmosphere and is “a fundamental part of the bigger experience,” Combs says.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PROFILES

Salons & Spas

Left to right: Brian Abramson, Mimi Brodsky Kress, Tyler Abrams, Tom Bennett, Phil Leibovitz.

New Wave Salon and Spa

STEPHANIE WILLIAMS

DANNY SAYAG A new hairstyle, smoothing treatment, an invigorating facial or gorgeous nails can have a tremendously positive impact on a person’s confidence, New Wave Salon and Spa owner Danny Sayag says.

Witnessing such transformations—seeing a gloriously happy client—is the greatest reward.

With all the perks of a large salon—extensive options and resources, knowledge and experience— New Wave Salon and Spa, a premier Washington Metropolitan area hair salon for more than 30 years, offers the personalized, tailored customer service more often associated with smaller, boutique studios.

“I’m so lucky to have been able to make so many personal connections,” Sayag says. “I remember each client’s story and keep current with their lives. I still see clients who first came to the salon over 30 years ago and am excited to see them each time and provide them with the results they expect and deserve.”

Sayag and his team featuring 34 internationally trained stylists, meticulous nail technicians and skilled estheticians—all of whom continue to educate themselves and stay at the forefront of changing styles and techniques—provide more than a service, he says. A visit to the state-of-the-art salon should be an experience, a pleasant one beginning with the initial phone call. New Wave offers clients a joyful and collaborative atmosphere which in turn makes each client feel comfortable and relaxed.

“We care deeply about each client and appreciate the opportunity to support them in any way,” Sayag says. “No matter what challenges someone is facing, we want all our clients to feel special and beautiful. They should leave here ready for the world, with renewed confidence and sense of purpose.”

“No matter what challenges someone is facing, we want all our clients to feel special and beautiful.”

1776 East Jefferson St., Suite 111 Rockville, MD 20852 301-231-4844 www.newwavesalon.com

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Zohra Salon & Zohra MEN and Susan Koehn Designs Jewelry

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“We understand that everyone has their own unique needs, desires and sense of style, which is why we are proud to offer a very diversified range of services.”

11325 Seven Locks Road Potomac, MD 20854 301-299-3100

ERNESTO MALDONADO

Zohra Salon & Zohra MEN and Susan Koehn Designs Jewelry—located inside the salon— perfectly blend upscale salon services with a community atmosphere, presenting clients with a warm and welcoming oasis.

A leading Bethesda and Potomac salon for more than 20 years, Zohra has become synonymous with luxury hair care and offers the widest range of salon services, from men’s and women’s haircuts, texture services, hair treatments and color, to men’s grooming.

“We take great pride in our reputation,” says owner Ofeer Marwani. “We understand everyone has their own unique needs, desires and sense of style, which is why we’re proud to offer a very diversified range of services.”

Zohra, named “Best Salon in Potomac” in Bethesda Magazine’s “Best of Bethesda Reader’s Poll in 2016 and 2018, is committed to ensuring clients look and feel bright and beautiful, Marwani says, praising the salon’s global team for bringing artistry, experience and passion to everything they do.

Susan Koehn Designs is a great place for clients to stop for edgy, trendy and classic styles from top designers and the finest jewelry collections, says Salon Manager Yvonne Bunces.

Whether they’re looking for everyday wear, pieces for the most special occasions or a gift, Susan’s selection has it all, at the lowest prices.

“Jewelry is the most transformative thing you can wear,” says Susan Koehn. “And the right pieces can greatly complement a new haircut or hairstyle.”

Marwani set out to create a family friendly salon with a “getaway feeling.” Featuring the highest quality of professional service, the use of the most advanced techniques, and equipment and industry leading products, Zohra is a place families can go to be taken care of, whatever their specific, individual haircare needs.

shopping. beauty. weddings. pets. travel. history.

COURTESY OF VISITSOUTHERNDELAWARE.COM

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Delaware’s Winter WonderFEST includes a Christmas Village with a Ferris wheel, games and carnival rides. For more, turn to page 325.

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BY ADRIENNE WICHARD-EDDS

SHOP TALK

SWEATER WEATHER The perfect way to welcome winter back to your wardrobe is with the kind of cozy knits that go from family holiday gathering to fireside hot toddy. Here are some of our favorite statement sweaters of the season, updated with oversize cables, ’80s-worthy puff sleeves and textural details—proof that winter white is anything but vanilla.

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1. FRAME Nubby 2. La Vie Rebecca 3.

Turtleneck WoolTaylor Cozy Cable Blend Knit Sweater, Sweater, $295 at $395 at Neiman Bloomingdale’s Marcus (5300 (5300 Western Wisconsin Ave. NW, Ave., Chevy Chase, Washington, D.C., 240-744-3700, 202-966-9700, bloomingdales.com) neimanmarcus. com)

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J.Crew Women’s 4. AMUR Brie Crop 5. J.Crew Collection 6. Vince Wool Blend 1988 Rollneck Wool Sweater in Cable-Knit Knit Cardigan Sweater in Warm Ivory, $448 at Mockneck Sweater in Linen, $425 Ivory, $79.50 at Saks Fifth Avenue in Light Warm at Nordstrom J.Crew (5335 (5555 Wisconsin Cedar, $188 at (Westfield Wisconsin Ave. NW, Ave., Chevy Chase, J.Crew (5335 Montgomery mall, Washington, D.C., 301-657-9000, Wisconsin Ave. NW, Bethesda, 301-365202-537-3380, saksfifthavenue.

Washington, D.C., 4111, nordstrom. jcrew.com) com) 202-537-3380, com) jcrew.com)

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GOING CLEAN “YOU ABSORB 60 PERCENT of everything you put on your skin,” says Tara Foley, founder of Follain, a clean-beauty emporium. “Our culture is so focused on nutrition and fitness that investigating the ingredients we put on our skin is the logical next step.”

That’s why the 33-year-old D.C. native and Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart graduate launched Follain online in 2013.

Now living in Boston, she recently opened her fifth brick-and-mortar store on Bethesda Row. She also has two stores in Boston, another on Nantucket and one in Seattle.

Follain—Gaelic for “healthy, wholesome and sound”—aims to help women and men eliminate the harmful chemicals in their beauty routine, one product at a time. “The vast majority of our business is skin care, as opposed to Sephora, which is mostly makeup,” Foley says. “Our goal is to get your skin into a really great place first by using 318

products with wholesome ingredients, and then add makeup for fun.”

The light-filled store is set up by category, skin type and concern, with best-of picks in each section chosen from Follain’s roster of more than 75 brands. Testers and trial sizes are everywhere, and sampling is encouraged.

In-store consultants can help you find and replace the biggest offenders in your beauty routine. “A lot of people start their transition with the products that are the most unsafe— body soaps and lotions, things that sit on your skin. And anything that says ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’ on the label, unless it says ‘made with essential oils,’ could contain up to thousands of different chemicals,” Foley says.

So what makes a beauty product clean?

“Clean beauty is a one-two punch,” Foley says. “It has to be nontoxic—that’s a nonnegotiable for us. It can’t be bad for the planet or for you. It also has to work. It

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has to be effective and offer a really great experience.” That includes skin care, hair care, makeup and fragrances.

For the curious, Follain’s website lists more than two dozen ingredients that can sneak into your beauty routine—everything from the predictable mineral oil and parabens to more shocking ingredients such as formaldehyde and placenta extract—with an explanation of what each is used for and what makes them toxic.

Foley personally tests all products Follain sells. Among her favorites: Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator for skin ($35), La Bella Figura The Clean Slate cleanser ($60), Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil ($32) and May Lindstrom Blue Cocoon beauty balm concentrate ($180).

Follain, 4810 Bethesda Ave., Bethesda, 240534-2360, follain.com n

PHOTO COURTESY OF MAYA OREN OF MOJALVO

A new skin-care store in Bethesda stocks its shelves with nontoxic products

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M A RY L A N D Montgomery Mall - 301.652.6490

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Connecticut Avenue - 202 833 9455 Foxhall Square - 202 363 5087 M a z z a G a l l e r i e - 2 0 2 2 4 4 7 11 4

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BY KATHLEEN SEILER NEARY

WEDDINGS

Costumes Required A Bethesda couple’s Halloween-themed wedding included Harry Potter wands, dancing to ‘The Time Warp’ and a guest dressed as a chicken

HOW THEY MET: In February 2013, they were each attending a weekend-long anime convention at National Harbor. On the first night, they both went solo to the convention’s formal ball. “I asked him to dance and he said yes,” Maya says. “It was on the darker side, so I couldn’t really see what he looked like specifically.” They danced a few more songs together. “She mentioned that she was going to go get water outside of the room, and I’m like, OK, that sounds like a great idea,” Jeff says. Maya didn’t expect him to join her.

“I was trying to give him an out. He didn’t take it,” she says. Her reaction when she saw him in better lighting: Oh, shoot, he’s cute. This is bad. “He lived up in Philadelphia and I lived in Bethesda and I did not want a long-distance relationship.”

THE FIRST DATE: The next night at the convention, Jeff asked Maya to grab a bite to eat. “We were eating at a restaurant and she was holding my hand and looking into my eyes and was like, ‘This is a date, 320

isn’t it?’ And I was like, ‘kinda, yeah,’ ” Jeff says. The pair decided to stay in touch as friends. They texted and emailed a few times a week, then talked on the phone over the next two months. Says Maya, “I realized that he’s pretty fantastic and I would be stupid not to give him a real shot.” They had honest talks about marriage, religion, politics and what would happen if their relationship got serious. A few months after they met, Jeff came to visit.

They went to dinner at Ben’s Chili Bowl in D.C. and then to a Dr. Who-themed happy hour at the Black Cat, since both are fans of the British television show.

THE PROPOSAL: Early on, Maya told Jeff about a dream she had. In it, Jeff had a bunch of balloons with all of the things he liked about her printed on them. He made a mental note. “I was like, I could do that,” he says. After he moved from Philadelphia and they had lived together for about a year in Bethesda, he decided to propose in July 2015. He got helium tanks and 125 balloons (50 were preprinted with “Will you marry me?”) and filled vases with roses in their apartment. “I had a whole spreadsheet of things about her that I loved that I wrote on the balloons,” Jeff says. He made a special dinner, put on dressy clothes and had music playing when Maya got home from work. “She had a long day and she comes in, she looks at me and goes, ‘Oh,

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there are balloons. I’m gonna go wash my hands and then you can tell me why there are balloons,’ ” he says. (The couple’s rule is that when you get home you take off your shoes and wash your hands.) Then Jeff asked if she’d like to marry him. She said she would someday, not realizing that he was proposing. “And then 20 seconds later, she was like, wait, really?” says Jeff, who handed her a custom ring box from Etsy.

The box was shaped like the TARDIS—a dark blue time-traveling telephone booth from Dr. Who.

THE WEDDING: Maya and Jeff were married on Oct. 29, 2016, at Rock Creek Mansion in Bethesda. Their favorite holiday is Halloween, so they held a Halloween-themed wedding with 95 guests. They asked everyone to wear costumes.

THE CEREMONY: The couple wrote their own ceremony. Once guests were seated for the outdoor event, the song “The Final Countdown” by Europe played.

Then the two walked down the aisle with their maternal grandmothers. Jeff’s dad was the officiant, and the opening lines were from The Princess Bride. “We didn’t actually expect him to dress up as the priest from Princess Bride. I definitely didn’t expect him to do the voice,” Maya says. But he did. “So as soon as he started, I was losing it. I was laughing

THERESA CHOI PHOTOGRAPHY

THE COUPLE: Maya Fox, 33, grew up in Rockville and graduated from Thomas S. Wootton High School. She works as a program analyst for the U.S. Census Bureau in Suitland, Maryland. Jeff Robinson, 33, grew up in Plymouth, Pennsylvania, and is a D.C.-based consultant for Accenture.

They live in Bethesda.

THE ATTIRE: For the ceremony, Maya wore a

vintage-style dress that she found online and boots she’d owned for many years. For makeup, she just wore lipstick. The couple’s costumes for the reception (pictured here) were made by a friend who was working as a costume designer for Imagination Stage. Jeff’s costume was a variation on Prince Charming from Once Upon a Time.

“Mine was just a pretty dress that I wanted,” says Maya, who paired the dress with Keds.

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so hard.” During their vows, the couple pointed wands they had bought at Universal Studios to reference the “unbreakable vow” from Harry Potter.

CREATIVE COSTUMES: Jeff’s dad changed out of his officiant outfit into a Jim Perdue costume to coordinate with his wife’s chicken costume. There were superheroes, villains and Star Trek costumes.

“One of the more notable ones was a creepy Elf on the Shelf,” Jeff says.

THE DÉCOR: At the reception inside the mansion, the décor included black tablecloths, red napkins and lanterns. On the dining tables were two favors—costumed rubber duckies and owl-shaped boxes filled with Halloween candy.

THE MUSIC: Everyone danced to Halloween-themed music, including “The Time Warp” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

“At the end of ‘The Time Warp,’ traditionally you drop down to the ground,” Maya says. “I fell across Jeff and someone else fell across me and there’s a picture and I’m laughing so hard. I remember the looks of dismay from some of the guests who didn’t know what was going on.”

DR. WHO DEVOTION: The couple’s fondness for the TARDIS showed up in the bowtie Jeff wore during the ceremony and as a charm in Maya’s bouquet of paper flowers made of book pages. A friend made a painting for guests to sign that also featured the phone booth. “It’s the TARDIS and it’s held up by a bunch of balloons, like in Up,” Maya says. The cake (at left) was TARDIS-shaped, complete with a light at the top.

THE HONEYMOON: In May 2017 the

VENDORS: Cake and cupcakes, Savvy Treats; catering, Stone Soup Catering; ceremony dress, Unique Vintage; flowers, Etsy (DiddleBug); music, Bryan George Music; painting for guests to sign, Brittany Branson; photo booth, A Click in Time Photo Booths; photography, Theresa Choi Photography; reception gown/costumes, Buttons and Lace Design; wedding coordinator, Wild Thyme Event Studio. ■ 322

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THERESA CHOI PHOTOGRAPHY

couple went on a three-week trip to Japan.

They took a soba noodle-making class, went to a tea ceremony, watched sumo wrestling and dressed in kimonos for a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony.

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COMING DECEMBER 2018

by Bethesda Magazine

Local Jobs for Local People

THERESA CHOI PHOTOGRAPHY

Job Board by Bethesda Magazine is a new online resource that connects D.C. metro-area employers with Montgomery County job seekers.

LEARN MORE AT: BethesdaMagazine.com/JobBoard

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GET AWAY

OPENED IN JUNE ON 80 palatial acres in Staunton, Virginia, The Blackburn Inn mixes modern artsy décor with nods to the historic redbrick building’s past.

Constructed by master builder and Thomas Jefferson protégé Thomas Blackburn in 1828, the Jeffersonianstyle property features vaulted ceilings, light-filled hallways, original heart pine floors and a reproduction antique drafting table that serves as the reception desk. Each of the inn’s 49 guest rooms features plush pillow-top beds and spacious marble bathrooms with frameless glass showers; some have soaking tubs.

Relax at Second Draft, Blackburn’s intimate bistro and bar, and nosh on a Southern pimento cheese panini or a goat cheese flatbread pizza (aim for a spot on the wraparound front porch in good weather). Take the spiral staircase to a rooftop cupola for 360-degree views of the quaint town of Staunton.

Rates begin at $149 and include a breakfast of pastries, fruit, yogurt and locally sourced artisanal cheeses.

The Blackburn Inn, 301 Greenville Ave., Staunton, Virginia; 540-712-0601, blackburn-inn.com 324

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE BLACKBURN INN

A SHENANDOAH VALLEY GEM

NEW IN NEW YORK

COURTESY OF VISITSOUTHERNDELAWARE.COM; COURTESY OF MONDRIAN PARK AVENUE

WINTER WONDERLAND FIRST HELD IN 2016, southern Delaware’s Winter WonderFEST offers a trifecta of festive activities to put you in the holiday spirit: a Christmas Village, ice rink and lights display. The Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal grounds are transformed into a colorful Christmas Village with a giant Ferris wheel, games and holiday-themed carnival rides. Warm up with cocoa and cocktails in a large heated tent dubbed The Lodge. Skate under the lights to holiday tunes at the open-air Visit Delaware Ice Rink, also at the ferry terminal.

Less than 2 miles away, a 1½-mile drive-through Light Spectacular transforms Cape Henlopen State Park with more than 100 displays, including a giant igloo, leaping gingerbread man and juggling snowman. On opening night, Nov. 17, you can tour the lights on foot ($35; $20 kids; prices include a T-shirt, light fare and other goodies). The remainder of the season, car passes are $15 in advance and well worth it for the express lane into the show (call 302-727-0221 to reserve); $20 at the gate.

Hours are 5-9 p.m.

Spend the night on Lewes’ waterfront at The Inn at Canal Square, which is known for its holiday finery.

Several of the coastal-themed rooms have balconies.

Two-bedroom suites feature a wood-burning fireplace.

Rates from $140 per weekend night, continental breakfast included. A two-night WinterFEST package includes admission to the Light Spectacular and an $80 dinner credit, and starts at $475 on weekends. (122 Market St., theinnatcanalsquare.com)

LOCATED IN NEW YORK CITY’S NoMad neighborhood, just blocks from the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden, Mondrian Park Avenue is a 20-story hotel with the swanky feel of a Manhattan apartment. Opened last November, the hotel has 189 rooms and suites, each with plush linens, oversize rain showers, an LCD smart TV, leather wing chairs and a minibar stocked with locally curated treats and create-your-own cocktail kits.

Many rooms offer “floating” writing desks that can swing alongside a chair or bed, and some rooms on the top five floors come with a private balcony.

Cleo, the hotel’s restaurant, serves Mediterranean fare, including Moroccan lamb, grilled Spanish octopus and kebabs. An indoor-outdoor lounge and terrace named 15 Stories is a musical oasis by night and a relaxing space for late afternoon light bites and sunset views. Bring your pup and book the Bark Avenue package, complete with a dog bed and a “Bark Box” that includes all-natural treats and a toy (a recent Chinese-themed box contained a dumplingshaped toy). Dog walking is available upon request.

Rates at Mondrian Park Avenue start at $459 per night.

444 Park Ave. South, New York, New York; 212-804-8880, mondrianparkavenue.com n

Winter WonderFEST runs from Nov. 17 through Dec. 31.

The light festival and Christmas Village are open Friday through Sunday; the ice rink is open Tuesday through Sunday. winterwonderfestde.org BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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s a m t s i r Ch Past and Present

From Colonial traditions to modern-day amusements, Williamsburg is brimming with holiday cheer

BY CHRISTINE KOUBEK | PHOTOS BY MICHAEL VENTURA

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Clockwise from left: Yankee Candle Village; shops at Merchants Square along Duke of Gloucester Street; a fife and drum performance.

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GREATER WILLIAMSBURG IN VIRGINIA

is known for many things: history, an amusement park, a spa resort and an innovative craft beer and cocktails scene. But during the months of November and December, Williamsburg and its Historic Triangle compatriot Yorktown bedazzle visitors with a mix of Colonial and present-day holiday fun. A yuletide jaunt is perhaps best begun by visiting a plucky old man on a mission to keep the spirit of the holidays alive.

You can find him on an afternoon stroll in Merchants Square, a shopping area adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg, an 18th-century city that doubles as the world’s largest living history museum (think immersive hands-on activities 328

and guided tours). Here, street names such as Prince George and Duke of Gloucester are a nod to Britain’s influence on our early years. The man has a genuine white beard and wears a red suit, a necklace made of wooden toy blocks and a holly wreath around his head instead of a cap. He’s typically in conversation with someone, or several someones. He’s Father Christmas.

“Being Santa keeps me young,” says Lance Smith, who’s in his mid-70s and has embodied Father Christmas (and also Santa Claus) in Williamsburg for nearly 20 years. “It’s the best job in the world; it boosts the endorphins.” Smith, who has also worked as a magician and on an Alaskan oil rig, regales children

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and adults with tales of how Christmas was celebrated in early America, why the holiday was banned for a stretch in England, and why the names of two reindeer were changed. You can also find Smith (or another gentleman) dressed as a traditional Santa earlier in the day, sitting in a sleigh that’s more than 100 years old and posing for pictures across the street at Barnes & Noble. “We have people who come from all up and down the coast every year to get their pictures with us,” Smith says. (Check merchantssquare.org for Santa and Father Christmas schedules.)

Whether you wander Colonial Williamsburg’s historic streets or purchase tickets to enter more than 40 sites and

speak to period-dressed interpreters, there’s a distinct feeling that you’ve journeyed into Christmas past. The place is festooned with enough apple swags, woodsy green garlands and beautiful wreaths of fruit and berries to lift the spirits of even the most Scroogelike visitors.

Preplanning is the key to enjoying Colonial Williamsburg’s holiday offerings.

Peruse the daily program guide (available at ticket offices and at colonialwilliams burg.com) to organize your visit. There are a couple dozen choices per day. You might ice skate at Liberty’s Ice Pavilion, take a Christmas decorations walking tour, learn an 18th-century dance, listen to a master storyteller talk about “Remembering Christmas: Slave and

Clockwise from opposite left: Lance Smith, who has been serving as Father Christmas in Williamsburg for almost two decades; Busch Gardens Christmas Town; Yankee Candle Village; docents make Colonial dishes at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.

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DRIVING RANGE

where to shop Colonial Williamsburg The historic area’s dozen-plus shops offer things you won’t find in a superstore, including silversmiths at the Golden Ball fashioning one-of-a-kind jewelry, and the Prentis Store’s collection of handcrafted leather goods, iron hardware, reproduction furniture, Colonial clothing and Native American crafts. colonialwilliamsburg.com Merchants Square at Colonial Williamsburg Home to more than 40 shops and restaurants, this 18th-century-style village is a mix of national brand stores and unique shops, such as Scotland House for gifts and apparel, and Williamsburg Craft House for a wide selection of pewter, folk art, jewelry and more. merchantssquare.org Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing This collection of waterfront shops offers jewelry, quilts, art and clothing. Auntie M’s American Cottage is the place for handcrafted art from across the country. The Yorktown Onion sells fine art and home accessories. visityorktown.org/153/riverwalk-landing

where to eat A Chef’s Kitchen Helmed by John Gonzales, a former executive chef at D.C.’s Watergate Hotel and the author of two cookbooks, this novel restaurant teaches diners how to make a multicourse dinner, then serves the complete feast along with paired wines. Dishes for the five-course fixed-menu meal change monthly. The dinner is $94.50 per person and includes hors d’oeuvres, Champagne, three glasses of paired wines and the recipes—including the one for what many guests have said is the restaurant’s “life-changing” cornbread. Book well in advance. achefskitchen.biz Aromas Specialty Coffees and Cafe A Merchants Square spot, Aromas is a favorite for warm beverages and its extensive 330

menu of delicious breakfasts (including a briestuffed French toast), salads, sandwiches, pastries, cakes and more. aromasworld.com DoG Street Pub This 80-year-old bank-turned-gastropub serves craft beers, from ales to lagers, and fare including burgers made from salmon, lamb or Angus beef. dogstreetpub.com

where to stay Kingsmill Set on the banks of the James River, this resort is the place for spacious condos and culinary feasts, from a history-themed Thanksgiving dinner to a traditional Italian Feast of the Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve. The three-night Christmas package includes a two- or three-bedroom condo decorated with a Christmas tree and stockings hung by the fireplace, full breakfast daily and transportation to Busch Gardens and Colonial Williamsburg.

Packages start at $605 per night; available from Dec. 21 to 26. kingsmill.com Williamsburg Inn Since opening in 1937, the inn has been a place of respite for royalty, politicians and celebrities. Extensive renovations over the past three years have enhanced the property’s classic elegance while adding 21st-century amenities and a new terraced pool. Explore the inn’s first-floor lounges and nooks for gorgeous holiday décor and photos of famous guests. Rates begin at $419. colonialwilliamsburghotels.com/ williamsburg-inn Wedmore Place at Wessex Hundred This Old World European-style boutique hotel, surrounded by 300 acres of farmland and vineyards as part of the Williamsburg Winery property, has 28 romantic rooms and suites decorated with antiques and tapestries inspired by notable wine regions. Many have wood-burning fireplaces. Rates start at $160.

A continental breakfast and a Williamsburg Winery tour and tasting for two are included. wedmoreplace.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

holiday events Holiday Pops with the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra—Dec. 1 and 2 (two shows each day) This year, the Williamsburg Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with two church choirs for an even bigger take on this holiday tradition. williamsburgsymphony.org/concerts Yorktown Lighted Boat Parade—Dec. 1 Power boats and sailing vessels bedecked in twinkling lights that cast red and purple ripples in their wake compete for best in show in this floating parade off Riverwalk Landing. Caroling around a bonfire, music and complimentary hot cider round out the festivities. visitwilliamsburg.com/events/ yorktown-lighted-boat-parade Colonial Williamsburg Grand Illumination—Dec. 2, 4-7 p.m.

In keeping with the 18th-century tradition of illuminations to celebrate special events (such as military victories or the anniversary of a reigning sovereign’s birth), you can stroll along the streets of the historic area to see holiday decorations, enjoy musical performances on multiple stages and catch the fireworks—all for free. colonialwilliamsburg.com/plan/ calendar/grand-illumination Holiday Concert: The King’s Singers— Dec. 21, St. Bede Catholic Church, Williamsburg Formed by six recently graduated choral scholars from King’s College in Cambridge in 1968, The King’s Singers—Britain’s beloved Grammy Award-winning a cappella ensemble—perform ancient and modern Christmas music from across its repertoire, including selections from Christmas, Christmas Songbook and Gold, their 50th anniversary album. secure.vafest.org/single/ eventlisting.aspx?k=40 For a listing of all holiday activities in Williamsburg and Yorktown, go to visitwilliamsburg.com and visityorktown.org.

In Colonial Williamsburg, cressets burn along Duke of Gloucester Street.

Free,” or feel the beat in your chest as you follow the fife and drum.

New this year is a shadow puppet show called “Holiday Memories.”

Offered on select dates, it features a changing panoramic background that helps tell the story of Christmas in the 1890s. Some evenings you can gather around the porch at R. Charlton’s Coffeehouse for a sing-along of holiday favorites in the glow of burning cressets (raised iron baskets filled with wood) that light up Duke of Gloucester Street.

For a different look at life in our country during its early years, visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, a roughly 20-minute drive from Colonial Williamsburg. As one Yorktown guide put it, “Yorktown reflects what the majority of folks lived like [back then], the country folks and farmers, who were numerous…and thought differently politically than the ‘urban’ folks whose lives are reflected by Colonial Williamsburg.”

Opened in 2016, the 80,000-squarefoot museum brings to the forefront many voices not often heard in the telling of Revolution-era history—those of enslaved and free blacks, and women.

The experiential theater that is part of the “Revolution” exhibit transports visitors to the Yorktown battlefield in 1781, complete with wind, smoke and cannon fire. The museum’s holiday spin includes musical entertainment from the period, learning about Christmas during the war at the Continental Army encampment,

and trying your hand at candle-dipping at a clapboard farmhouse.

Segue to present-day Christmas at nearby Williamsburg Winery, which is open daily for tours and tastings of its wines, including its flagship red blend, Adagio, plus whites and dessert wines that make good gifts at holiday soirées.

The winery is part of Wessex Hundred, a 300-acre farm that overlooks the James River and includes Gabriel Archer Tavern and Wedmore Place—an inn that boasts an elegant French restaurant, Café Provençal.

Fans of Elf—and all that glittered in the movie’s decked-out department store—might feel like they’ve entered a holiday film scene at Yankee Candle Village. The 45,000-square-foot store offers interactive games and activities, a giant gumball machine, a Santa’s workshopthemed Toy Shop, plus more than 40,000 ornaments to choose from. You can get crafty by making a wax mold of your hand (the peace sign and thumbs-up are popular choices) or dipping a crittershaped candle, in addition to watching an elaborate train set chug through the upper reaches of the store, visiting with Santa, and taking a selfie with a 6-foottall nutcracker.

On an even grander scale, Busch Gardens Christmas Town (Nov. 17 to Jan. 5) features more than 10 million lights—the largest holiday lights display in North America. A highlight of the amusement park’s offerings is a

“fireside feast” at Castle O’Sullivan with Santa and Mrs. Claus (the food is cafeteria quality, but the experience has a cozy Christmas-with-the-Clauses vibe).

Stroll Busch Gardens’ traditional German-themed Mistletoe Marketplace for artsy gifts made by local craftspeople, enjoy the rides (about 25 are open during Christmas Town, including the InvadR and Verbolten roller coasters), and stay warm with a mug of the park’s tasty peppermint fudge hot chocolate.

Whether you spend time with Father Christmas in Williamsburg or visit with Santa at Busch Gardens and Yankee Candle, there’s something about the spirit of Williamsburg’s holiday season.

Smith, aka Father Christmas, recalls one day when he had a friend fill in for him.

“The shift was supposed to end at 4:30.

He stayed until 7,” Smith says. The man told Smith how he loved the job and how much joy it brings to both the kids and the man who is Santa (or Father Christmas). “Being Santa is not about the beard,” Smith says. “It’s about spreading love and acceptance for everyone.” In this historic town that pays homage to our country’s founding principles, that’s a message to ponder for Christmases past, present and future. n Christine Koubek is a travel and essay writer, and a teacher at The Writer’s Center in Bethesda who divides her time between Montgomery County and Virginia’s Tidewater region.

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The Academy of the Holy Cross

9-12

Girls

Kensington

500

19

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The Auburn School, Silver Spring Campus

K-8

Co-ed

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65

10

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Age 3 - Grade 8

Co-ed

Barnesville, MD

130

12

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Barrie School

18 mo - Grade 12

Co-ed

Silver Spring

300

16

13:1 (lower) 10:1 (mid, upper)

Beauvoir, National Cathedral Elementary School

PK-3

Co-ed

Washington, D.C.

380

20

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Bullis School

K-12

Co-ed

Potomac

835

15

7:1

Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School

JK-12

Co-ed

Rockville

960

17

8:1

Geneva Day School

Age 2 - K

Co-ed

Potomac

270

15

3:1

Green Acres School

Age 3 - Grade 8

Co-ed

N. Bethesda

220

11

5:1

Holton-Arms School

3-12

Girls

Bethesda

665

15

6:1

The Maddux School

PK-2

Co-ed

Rockville

46

11

5:1

McLean School

K-12

Co-ed

Potomac

400

10

5:1

The Nora School

9-12

Co-ed

Silver Spring

65

8

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PK-8

Co-ed

Bethesda

440

11

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Bethesda

125

16

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Randolph Macon Academy

6-12

Co-ed

Front Royal, Va.

305

13

8:1

The Siena School

4-12

Co-ed

Silver Spring

130

10

10:1

St. Jane de Chantal

PK-8

Co-ed

Bethesda

415

22

17:1

St. John's College High School

9-12

Co-ed

Chevy Chase, D.C.

1,140

21

12:1

Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart

PS-12

Girls grades 1-12 Co-ed PS-K

Bethesda

720

16

11:1

Washington Episcopal School

Age 3 - Grade 8

Co-ed

Bethesda

285

14

6:1

Westmoreland Children's Center

Age 2 - Age 5

Co-ed

Bethesda

142

12

4:1

Whittle School & Studios

PS-12

Co-ed

Washington, D.C.

The Woods Academy

Age 3 - Grade 8

Co-ed

Bethesda

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Essential Information on ION

US T GIO LIA ELI AFFI R •

M OR NIF • BUS •U

Catholic

Y

RideOn

None

N

N

None

N

Y

None

N

Episcopal

24 Independent Schools

S) N ION NT TIO UIT TUDE TUI 12 T L T S S A E Y E U NN RAD OW (5-DA •A G •L $24,800

ES

AG

•

GU AN N L ED G I E ER FOR OFF

ITE

BS

E •W

NE

HO

•P

$24,800

Spanish, French, Latin

AHCtartans.org

301-942-2100

N/A

Spanish

theauburnschool.org

301-588-8048

$16,440

N/A

Spanish

barnesvilleschool.org

301-972-0341

Y

$18,500

$32,900

Spanish, French, Chinese, Independent Study

barrie.org

301-576-2800

N

N

$35,975

N/A

Spanish

beauvoirschool.org

202-537-6485

None

Y

Y

$33,703

$43,131

Spanish, French, Latin, Mandarin

bullis.org

301-299-8500

Open to all

N

Y

$21,660

$17,750

Spanish, Hebrew, Arabic

cesjds.org

301-881-1400

None

N

N

$7,200

N/A

Spanish, Chinese

genevadayschool.org

301-340-7704

None

N

Y

$22,900

N/A

Spanish

greenacres.org

301-881-4100

None

Y

Y

$42,975

$42,975

Spanish, French, Latin, Chinese

holton-arms.edu

301-365-5300

None

N

N

$30,900

N/A

madduxschool.org

301-469-0223

None

Y

Y

$25,990

$45,990

Spanish, Latin, American Sign Language

mcleanschool.org

301-299-8277

None

N

N

$30,750

$31,350

Spanish, Latin

nora-school.org

301-495-6672

None

N

Y

$21,400

N/A

Spanish, French, Latin, Mandarin

norwoodschool.org

301-365-2595

None

N

N

$21,500

N/A

Spanish, French, Chinese

theprimarydayschool. org

301-365-4355

United Methodist Church

Y

N

$30,170

$40,090

Spanish, French, German

rma.edu

540-636-5484

None

N

N

$39,339

$41,250

Spanish

thesienaschool.org

301-244-3600

Catholic

Y

N

$7,257

N/A

Spanish

dechantal.org

301-530-1221

Catholic

Y

Y

$19,925

$19,925

Spanish, French, Latin

stjohnschs.org

202-363-2316

Catholic

Y

Y

$20,500

$35,500

Spanish, French, Latin

stoneridgeschool.org

301-657-4322

Episcopal

Y

N

$11,230

$35,640

Spanish, French, Latin

w-e-s.org

301-652-7878

None

N

N

$18,000

N/A

wccbethesda.com

301-229-7161

None

N

N

please inquire

please inquire

Spanish, Chinese

whittleschool.org

202-417-3615

Catholic

Y

N

$17,650

N/A

Spanish, French

woodsacademy.org

301-365-3080

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We work BEST when we work

together

.

WE ARE ST. JOHN’S. OPEN HOUSE | OCTOBER 21, 2018 | 11 AM – 2 PM Opening Minds | Unlocking Talents | Building Leaders 2607 MILITARY ROAD, NW, CHEVY CHASE, DC 20015

WWW.STJOHNSCHS.ORG

JOY AND MATH CAN BE USED IN THE SAME SENTENCE.

#JOYfulLearning PreK-8th Grade

Small Class Settings

Beauvoir Open House Sunday, November 11 at 1:00 p.m.

Cross-curricular teaching integrates arts, sciences, technology, and nature so students make connections that spark inquiry and deepen understanding.

301.972.0341 334

BarnesvilleSchool.org/VISIT

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

Register today: www.beauvoirschool.org/visit

3500 Woodley Road NW, Washington, DC 20016 www.beauvoirschool.org

Education Re-Imagined The Whittle School & Studios is on a journey to become the first truly global school for children in Preschool through Grade 12. We are creating an innovative and empowering approach to education with a focus on personalization, experiential learning, and immersive language programs.

COME LEARN WITH US Accepting Fall 2019 applications now for Preschool through Grade 10 at our Washington, D.C. Campus

PLEASE JOIN US AT ONE OF OUR UPCOMING EVENTS 202 417-3615 WHITTLESCHOOL.ORG/EVENTS

ILLUSTRATION: VIOLETA LÓPIZ

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Celebrate

HAPPINESS

Encourage

CURIOSITY

CHALLENGE

Unique Minds No w E

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llin g!

C���uses in ��i���� � Si��e� S��in� � �������e

www.TheAuburnSchool.org A school for academic and social success!

St. Jane de Chantal School Catholic Education for Children Pre-K through Grade 8

THERE’S A POWER WITHIN YOU.

• Christ-centered education in nurturing environment • Highest retention rate of ADW schools • Smartboard technology in all classrooms • 1 to 1 Chrome Books in Middle School • Music, Art, PE, Computer, and Spanish language classes • STEM Enrichment • Morning and After Care

Join us for our OP EN HO USE November 12 9:00-11:30 AM

• Resource Program

Thanks to our supporters who voted for De Chantal!

Visit us at www.dechantal.org 9525 OLD GEORGETOWN RD

•

BETHESDA, MD 20814

•

301.530.1221

Grades 6-12, Co-ed Boarding & Day | College Prep & Air Force JROTC

INSPIRE THE RISE WITHIN. OPEN HOUSES: NOV 12 & DEC 2 WWW.RMA.EDU | 540-636-5484

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Open House 9:00 am Saturday, November 10 Saturday, January 12

We invite you to visit! mcleanschool.org/visit

Where Others See Disabilities, McLean Sees Gifts.

Help Your Child Discover Their Strengths.

McLean School transforms lives. Our small classes and Abilities Modelâ„¢ prepare bright students K-12 including those with dyslexia, anxiety, attention, and organizational issues for college success.

Potomac, Maryland 240.395.0698 admission@mcleanschool.org

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Extraordinary Environment for Learning Come Visit Us! Discover Montessori Admission Event 18 months - Grade 5 November 2 9-11am

Group Tours 18 months - Grade 12

Live Well

November 12 9-10:30am

By connecting with others to develop the relationships they need to succeed not only in school, but in all aspects of life.

Learn Well By engaging in the process and becoming an active participant in their educational experience.

Lead Well By empowering them to make a difference in a complex and changing world.

Holton-Arms is an independent day school in Bethesda, Md., for girls in grades 3 through 12. www.holton-arms.edu

CHARLES E. SMITH JEWISH DAY SCHOOL CESJDS is a JK-12 independent school that engages students in an exemplary and inspiring general and Jewish education. Students grow in an expansive and dynamic learning environment full of opportunities, and develop into confident, creative thinkers who engage the world through Jewish values.

NEW FOR 2018-19!

• Newly renovated Montessori building and Maker Space • New STEAM courses for Middle and High School including planetary and marine science Barrie School 13500 Layhill Road, Silver Spring, MD Convenient to the ICC and Glenmont Metro

barrie.org

301-576-2800 | admission@barrie.org Transportation and Extended Day Available

2 yrs. old—Kindergarten Full & Half Days Summer Camp

Teacher:Student Ratio: 8:1

Contact us to schedule a personal tour Average Class Size: 17 25 Upper School electives courses including: Coding, Robotics, Sports Medicine, Intro to Guitar, and Sculpture 50+ zip codes around DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia are represented by our community 6 sports teams won PVAC championships during the 2017-2018 school year 7 bus routes serving DC, Virginia, Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Rockville, Potomac, Silver Spring

Lower SchooL FaLL open houSe Sunday, November 4, 2018 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM childcare available on-site

4:00 PM - 6:00 PM

RSVP: www.ceSjdS.oRg/lSoPenhouSe

RSVP: www.ceSjdS.oRg/uSoPenhouSe

Lower School (JK-5) 1901 East Jefferson Street Rockville, MD

www.cesjds.org

338

upper SchooL FaLL open houSe Sunday, November 11, 2018

Upper School (6-12) 11710 Hunters Lane Rockville, MD

/cesjdsconnect

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www.genevadayschool.org

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spirit of

achievement

Washington Episcopal School students love to learn. They are challenged daily in a balanced, joyful environment that lets kids be kids. With teachers always instructing – from books, the latest technology, studios, hallways, and athletic fields – children reach new levels of achievement.

Our students stand out without burning out out.

COME AND SEE FOR YOURSELF Daily Private Tours

Schedule by phone 301-652-7878 or email admissions@w-e-s.org

Open Houses

December 8 • 9:30 a.m.

January 26 • 9:30 a.m.

RSVP at www.w-e-s.org/admissions

WASHINGTON EPISCOPAL SCHOOL An independent, co-educational school for Nursery – Grade 8 5600 Little Falls Parkway, Bethesda, MD 20816 | www.w-e-s.org

Located about a mile from the DC line and 10 minutes from northern Virginia, off River Road

Join us for Lower School open house Nov. 4: K-Grade 5

Contact us for K-12th Tours/Interviews 10601 Falls Road Potomac, MD www.bullis.org

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I am living the big and small moments of my life with courage and compassion.

I am a Lady of the Academy.

OR AN JOIN US F

SE OPEN HOU ber 4 Sunday, Novem p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 1:00

All-Girls, Grades 9-12 4920 Strathmore Ave, Kensington MD • 301.942.2100 w w w .A cAd e my O f T h e h O ly c r O s s . O r g

The Maddux School Pre-K through Second Grade

Building Strong Foundations for Learning and Friendship

The Nora School

A college prep high school www.nora-school.org

Offering an innovative curriculum targeting social skills, self-esteem, and academic success.

Upcoming Parent Information Sessions & Tours: Wednesday, November 7, 2018, 9:30 – 11:30 am Wednesday, December 5, 2018, 9:30 – 11:30 am Wednesday, January 9, 2019, 9:30 – 11:30 am* Wednesday, February 6, 2019, 9:30 – 11:30 am* Wednesday, March 6, 2019, 9:30 – 11:30 am *Inclement weather makeup dates January 16 & February 13, 2019 Advance registration is required.

Please call us at 301.469.0223 or email amullins@madduxschool.org 11614 Seven Locks Road· Rockville, MD

340

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A Good Fit Is Everything A Good Fit is Comfortable

When you're a college prep student, “comfortable” isn't often the first word that comes to mind. With 12 or fewer students in a class, there’s time to question, probe, explore, clarify, and even laugh.

A Good Fit Makes Sense

When you're a college prep student, dealing with with a “system” can make school feel meaningless. We help students make connections - we teach to the “why.” Work is meaningful, and connected to life. Students who have lost motivation, or have found school frustrating, find at Nora a real school that makes sense.

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Intellect& Curiosity& Determination& Joy& Compassion.

BE KNOWN At Norwood School, it begins with a simple promise: Your child will be known. When students are known, they are best able to learn. This is because they feel comfortable to ask big questions, to take on advanced challenges, and most importantly...to become their true selves.

Progressive before it was cool to care.

#theoriginals #since1934 #progressiveeducation #livingourmission #engagedcitizens #stewardsoftheearth #agentsofchange Discovery Day, 10/28, 1:30-3:30 PM | Open House, 11/12, 9-11:30 AM Play, Explore, Learn!, 12/8, 10-11:30 AM | Financial Aid Info Evening, 1/3, 6:30-7:30 PM

Green Acres School | Age 3 to Grade 8 | North Bethesda 301.881.4100 | admission@greenacres.org | www.greenacres.org

Open House - November 10, 1:00-3:00 p.m.

An independent day school for children in grades PK-8.

8821 River Road, Bethesda Maryland www.norwoodschool.org

10th Annual

EXTRAORDINARY

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etc.

PETS

BY AMANDA PERELLI

HAPPY BARK DAY THE PARTY INVITATIONS, sent via email, were addressed to the dogs. “Ollie and Sadie are turning one!” the invites read, below photos of the two together.

Ollie, a miniature goldendoodle, and Sadie, a cava-poo-chon, have been inseparable since the day they met. When the dogs’ first birthdays were approaching—they were born a day apart—their owners, Rachel Rabin (Ollie’s mom) and Jaclyn Sandler (Sadie’s mom), decided to host a joint celebration. Rabin and Sandler, who were both teachers at Bells Mill Elementary School in Potomac, say their friends and families thought the idea was crazy. But neither of the women had kids at the time, and a pet party sounded fun.

Ten dogs—including Lucky, Lexie and Penny—showed up at the Cabin John Dog Park on a Saturday in May 2017, more than the hosts were expecting on a drizzly day. Guests gathered around a picnic table that was decorated with a blue tablecloth and paw-print plates and napkins. Everyone brought gifts or cards for the dogs, and they all sang “Happy Birthday” before indulging in a cookie cake. The dogs ate homemade, boneshaped peanut butter treats and spent most of the party playing in the mud.

“I think it was probably a first [and] only birthday [party],” says Sandler, who lives in Chevy Chase and now has infant twins. “In the future, Rachel and I will 342

get the dogs together around their birthdays and do something little.”

These days, pet parents have plenty of options when it comes to spoiling dogs on their birthday. At Bone Jour, a pet boutique in Bethesda, owner Becky Pugh sells everything from bakeat-home cake mix for dogs to themed toys like a singing plush birthday cake.

At Henry’s Sweet Retreat in Bethesda, dog-friendly cakes come in peanut butter, banana or pumpkin flavors and can be personalized. Fancy Cakes by Leslie, a popular Bethesda bakery, has been offering “pupcakes”—dog-friendly cupcakes with a minibone on top—for 10 years.

Eleven-year-old Rebeckah Gothelf bought birthday treats from Bark! in Rockville this past February and invited neighbors to a party for her 4-yearold Australian Labradoodle, Chicago.

Six dogs from her Rockville neighborhood came over with their owners, who brought biscuits, Frisbees and other toys. Rebeckah set up two tables of food, with signs that read: “Human Buffet” and “Dog Treats.”

Her family planned on an outdoor party, but the weather was bad so the dogs played in the basement. Weeks later, neighbors who couldn’t attend the party told Rebeckah how disappointed they were that they’d missed it.

Paul and Laura Abbott, owners of Life

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

of Riley Pet Hotel & Spa in Rockville, started offering customized party packages for dogs four years ago. The $500 fee includes two hours of open access to the playroom for up to 10 adults and 10 dogs, birthday decorations, finger foods and soft drinks for humans, petfriendly desserts, doggie gift bags and more. (It’s $100 extra for a professional photographer.)

A German shepherd-Akita mix named Beemer, who goes to Life of Riley for day care, celebrated his seventh birthday there, complete with a cake iced in blue yogurt frosting and topped with his name. His owner, who lives in Rockville, had seen photos of extravagant dog parties on social media and reached out to the Abbotts for ideas. With his owner’s help, Beemer blew out the candle on his cake and enjoyed a slice with his day care friends. As the dogs ran around together while party music played in the background, Beemer’s owner wondered why she’d never done this before.

“Unfortunately, [pets] don’t stay around forever and that’s heartbreaking,” she says, “so my thing is, I want to be able to maximize every experience for my dog the most I can.”

Beemer’s gift bag from Life of Riley included organic treats and a stuffed alligator that became his favorite toy.

The bandana he wore—the girl dogs get bows—read, “It’s my bark day!” n

ILLUSTRATION BY GOODLOE BYRON

Birthday parties aren’t just for people

etc.

FLASHBACK

BY MARK WALSTON

THE GREAT GRAPE

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ALICE KRESSE

How vines from a Clarksburg garden helped establish America’s fledgling wine industry AROUND 1816, JOHN ADLUM, one of America’s earliest winemakers, paid a visit to Mrs. Scholl’s Public House in Clarksburg. The tiny Montgomery County hamlet, founded in 1780, was a rambling collection of inns and taverns along the “Great Wagon Road” that ran from Georgetown to Frederick, now known as Route 355. Stagecoaches stopped at Mrs. Scholl’s twice a week, a brief respite for travelers on their way west.

Adlum—an indefatigable cultivator of grapevines—had heard about a particular native grape that grew in Catherine Scholl’s garden, one she called “Catawba.” Once he had tasted the sweet red berry, Adlum realized this variety was far better than the New World Alexander grape he had been using in wine he produced. He took a number of cuttings and brought them to his “experimental station,” a 100-acre tract in what is now Cleveland Park, along Connecticut Avenue in Washington, D.C., not far from Peirce Mill.

There, a variety of grapes were carefully trialed in search of the perfect fruit. Scholl’s Catawba grape became the standout.

Adlum produced 400 gallons of his first vintage Catawba wine in 1822. His friend Thomas Jefferson received one

of the inaugural bottles and was unimpressed. Nevertheless, Adlum persisted, propagated and propagandized, extolling the virtues of his vines all along the Eastern Seaboard. In 1830, The New England Farmer advertised 58 vines of “the true Catawba Grape” for sale, “one of the best native, table or wine grapes cultivated.” The grapes, with large berries of a pale red or lilac color, “have a slight, musky taste and delicate flavor.”

Noted the ad, “The vines are great bearers: one vine in Mrs. Scholl’s garden in Clarksburg, Maryland, has produced eight bushels of grapes in one season.”

Soon, cuttings from Mrs. Scholl’s Catawba grapes were growing in the vineyards of Nicholas Longworth, near Cincinnati, Ohio. Longworth’s Alexander grape wine was only mildly regarded—and ridiculed by the French.

Longworth turned instead to the Catawba grape, producing a still wine and, by accident, stumbling onto a method to create a sparkling wine.

Longworth’s still and sparkling Catawba wines became sensations, both at home and abroad—the first American wine to win praise from Old World sommeliers. A journalist from The Illustrated London News declared that the still Catawba compared favorably to the

wines of the Rhine, and, effusively, that the sparkling Catawba “transcends the Champagnes of France.”

Renowned poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was such a fan that in 1858 he penned an ode to Scholl’s grapes in his Birds of Passage collection of poems: Very good in its way Is the Verzenay, Or the Sillery soft and creamy; But Catawba wine Has a taste more divine, More dulcet, delicious, and dreamy.

Catawba’s fortunes would change forever in 1860, when a powdery mildew swept through the fields on the East Coast and in the Midwest, decimating production. Yet Catawba is still grown today east of the Mississippi River, with more than 3,000 acres under cultivation spread throughout the states.

Catawba vineyards have been particularly successful in New York’s Finger Lakes region. Limited runs of the pink Catawba wine can still be found gracing store shelves. n Author and historian Mark Walston (markwalston@comcast.net) was raised in Bethesda and lives in Olney.

BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018

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Three-year-old Elliott Wise checks the lattice-style crust work on his dad’s apple pie. Elliott’s father, local sportswriter Mike Wise—who makes desserts as a hobby— showed his family all the steps involved in baking a pie. Our story, “Baker Man,” is on page 58.

PHOTO BY JOSH LOOCK

OUTTAKES

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM

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