The Georgetowner's February 22, 2014 issue

VOLUME 60 NUMBER 10

TO BE...

OR NOT TO BE...

FINDING THE PERFECT FIT

FEBRUARY 26 – MARCH 11, 2014

RETURN OF KEY BRIDGE EXXON CONDOS FIOLA MARE MAKES A SPLASH MARK PLOTKIN ON THE MAYORAL RACE SPRING ARTS PREVIEW: OUR PICKS OF THE BEST

SINCE 1954

CONTENTS N EW S 3

DC Scene

4

Calendar

5

Town Topics

7

Business

8

Editorial / Opinion

REAL ES TATE 10

Feature Property

10

Mortgage

I N COUN TRY 11

Winery Weekend

AR T S

21

FOOD & WINE 26

Latest Dish

27

What’s Cooking, Neighbor?

28

Dining Guide

SOCIAL SCENE 29

Gala Guide

30

Social Scene

DIRECT ORY

COVER S T ORY 13

Spring Arts Preview

31

Classifieds

The Wedding Issue

FASH I ON 20

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2801 M Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20007 Phone: (202) 338-4833 Fax: (202) 338-4834 www.georgetowner.com The Georgetowner is published every other Wednesday. The opinions of our writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect the editorial and corporate opinions of The Georgetowner newspaper. The Georgetowner accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. The Georgetowner reserves the right to edit, re-write, or refuse material and is not responsible for errors or omissions.

Copyright, 2014.

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

ON THE COVER:

Bethany Blakeman (T.H.E. Artist Agency) wears Anna Maier (left), Tara La Tour (right) gowns from Hitched Bridal Couture and holds a bouquet from Little Acre Flowers for our annual wedding issue. Find the full story on page 13.

Art Direction & Design by Nh.d Hair & Makeup by Chris Rushton Photography by Angie Myers Photography

DC SCENE DC SCENES

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Photos and Text by Jeff Malet www.maletphoto.com 1. Despite frigid temperatures, hundreds of runners stripped down for charity in the fifth annual Cupid’s Undie Run on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C., on Feb. 15.

(2-4) What is billed as the “Largest Parade Celebrating Washington’s Birthday in the USA” kicked off in Old Town Alexandria on President’s Day, Feb. 17.

2. Reenactors of the First Virginia Regiment Artillery fire their cannon on Royal Street.

3. George Washington, played by Donald De Haven, and Martha Washington, played by Kari La Bell.

4. Elise (age 3) of Arlington enjoys waving the flag at the parade.

(5-6) The Gold Medal that was presented collectively in 2011 to the Army’s highly decorated Japanese-American units who fought in World War II went on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American history on Feb. 19.

5. Joseph Kurata and Tommie Okabayashi were among those veterans honored during a special ceremony that took place on the anniversary of the order that had placed their families in internment camps in 1942.

6. Japanese-American veterans help unfirl a giant copy of the StarSpangled Banner.

7. Joan Ayap of Bowen McCauley Dance during a performance from “An Evening to Love” at the Kennedy Center on Feb. 12.

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UP & COMING NOW THROUGH MAR. 8 Fifth Anniversary Intersections Festival The Intersections Festival presents music, theater, dance, film, spoken word and performance art. Performers range from Arts on the Horizon theater for toddlers to Taurus Broadhurst Dance and ukulelist Victoria Vox. Visit www.intersectionsdc.org. Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St., NE.

24th Washington Jewish Film Festival Sponsored by the D.C. Jewish Community Center’s Morris Cafritz Center for the Arts, the 2014 festival runs through Mar. 9, with 64 films from 18 countries screened at a dozen venues. Nearly all are regional, U.S. or world premieres. For details, visit www.washingtondcjcc.org.

and a concert showcasing seven area dance companies on Saturday. Contemporary, hip hop and traditional Middle Eastern and South Asian dance styles will be presented at the concert at Round House Theatre, 4545 East-West Highway. For details, visit www. bethesda.org/bethesda/dance-bethesda.

FEBRUARY 28

D.C. United Season-Opener The Major League Soccer season begins for D.C. United with a 7 p.m. match-up with the Columbus Crew at RFK Memorial Stadium.

For tickets, visit www.eventticketscenter.com.

2400 East Capitol St., SE.

The Mellish in Adams Morgan This high-energy funk outfit brings its mesmerizing electric stage show to Adams Morgan. Tickets are $5. For details, visit www. indieadamsmorgan.com. Mellow Mushroom, 2436 18th St., NW.

MARCH 8

Calendar

FEBRUARY 27

Cruz and Bardem Movie Night A young Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem fall in love against their parents’ wishes in “Jamón Jamón,” a feature film to be shown at 6:30 p.m. at the Embassy of Spain. Admission is free to this Spain Arts and Culture movie night, but reservations are required.

To reserve, visit www.spainculture.us. 2375 Pennsylvania Ave., NW.

Kids in the Kitchen This free event in support of nutritional literacy features cooking demonstrations with professional chefs, fitness instructors teaching yoga and Zumba, obstacle courses, face painting and healthy snacks. The Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures mobile van will conduct free dental screenings for children 12 and under. For details, visit www.jlw.org.

YMCA National Capital, 1711 Rhode Island Ave., NW.

MARCH 7-8

10th Annual Dance Bethesda This two-day event includes an open studio night of lessons and dance parties on Friday

MARCH 15 Shamrock Beer Bash The Shamrock Bash offers attendees three hours of unlimited tastings of more than 75 beers and full-pours of two select beers. There will also be live entertainment and food trucks in the parking lots across from Nationals Park. Tickets are $40. To purchase, visit www. eventbrite.com. 130 N St. SE.

MARCH 15 Songs for a New World Young Artists of America presents Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown conducting a fully orchestrated performance of his “Songs for a New World.” Performances are Mar. 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Mar. 16 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $15-35. For details, visit www.youngartistsamerica.org. Winston Churchill High School, 11300 Gainsborough Rd., Potomac, Md.

MARCH 1 Christylez Bacon & the Bohemian Caverns Jazz Orchestra at the Sprenger Theatre February 22, 2014

E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Pl., NW.

Spring Seasonal Beers At the D.C. Craft Beer Festival, attendees get unlimited two-ounce tastings of approximately 150 craft brews from around the country, with an emphasis on local brewers. Food is available. There is a private lounge for Connoisseurs and seminars are open to all. For details, visit www.craftbeerfestdc.com. Walter

MARCH 16 43rd St. Patrick’s Day Parade Celebrate Irish heritage in D.C. at this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade, stepping off at Noon at Constitution Ave. and 7th St., NW. The parade route continues along Constitution to 17th St., NW. Grandstand seats are $15. For details, visit dcstpatsparade.com.

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TOWN TOPICS

News Buzz

BY R OBE RT DEVANEY

and the wall for Georgetown Visitation Prep and near the Intercultural Center.

Also in the works is the transformation of the former Jesuit Residence into a student

Rendering of 3601 M St., NW the current site of Key Bridge Exxon, courtesy of EastBanc.

Key Bridge Exxon Condos Back?

It is back to the future for developer EastBanc and its proposed condos at the Key Bridge Exxon property on Canal Road. Expect a repeat performance of design questions and neighbors' opposition.

With its 1055 Water condo project on Wisconsin Avenue is well on its way to completion, the developer will turn back to its condo plans for the gas station property, next to the "Exorcist" steps and the Car Barn. In April 2011, EastBanc's plans called for a 35-unit building to rise to the height of Prospect Street properties above.

With some neighborhood opposition and designs overly revised, EastBanc head Anthony Lanier sidelined the project.

Designs for the M Street-Canal Road condos at the site will be re-introduced at the March 3 meeting of the Georgetown-Burleith Advisory Neighborhood Commission 2E as well as the Old Georgetown Board meeting on March 6.

According to EastBanc, plans call for 26 to 28 units, "averaging 2,500 square feet in size," each with two parking spaces.

Mary Mottershead of EastBanc offered more details to the Georgetowner: "The latest plans for this project at 3601-3607 M St are fairly similar in massing to the previous studies we undertook several years ago as they also follow the C-2 A zoning guidelines for the site. However, the new design is very different with the idea of being a quieter, more neutral design which does not compete with all the different very busy townhouse elevations above nor with the wedding cake design of the Arthur Cotton Moore building to the west nor with the massive and heavy design of the Car Barn to the east. …"

"As for the neighbors above," she continued, "the roof height of our building is below the lowest levels of those townhouses. However, our building needs space above for elevator overruns and stairwells and mechanical units and exhaust pipes and the like. By zoning, buildings are allowed 18-foot penthouses to accommodate mechanical equipment, but in consideration of the sightlines of these neighbors, we have undertaken many studies to look at other options which limit the impact to the views of the neighbors. Hence, we have spent a lot of time with our mechanical engineers and our landscape architects, OVS, to design a rooftop with equipment and penetrations that are lower in profile and also well screened with green roof

areas where possible."

And, as for those neighbors above on the 3600 block of Prospect Street, whose houses would overlook the condos, EastBanc met with some of them individually about two weeks ago to discuss the new designs.

According to one neighbor, who requested anonymity, they were "surprised by the threeweek notice" before the public meetings. As for the new design, the person said: "We will be vocal in our opposition. … The proposed building is more of what was presented last time: a massive contemporary structure."

The homeowner cited the five-story condo design's lack of historic context, saying it is a highly visible gateway to Georgetown, vibrant with a historic wall and steps and the spires of Georgetown University in the distance. Add to the new view the obscuring of greenery along the hill. "Is this the kind of design we want all to see? It will be a huge statement."

Acknowledging that some views from their homes and backyards would be obstructed, the homeowner also cited environmental issues.

The hillside part of their back property is fill dirt from earlier construction at Georgetown University and requires some neighbors to re-enforce their house, back yards and walls: "Construction would jeopardize the stability of the hill, which holds up our property." With the soft dirt on the hill, the homeowner said that one house on Prospect Street sustained hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage in the August 2011 earthquake.

Neighbors seek a four-story condo complex at 40 feet above street level. Prepare for some serious discussion at next week's public meetings.

New G.U. Dorm Designs Unveiled Revised designs for the first new dormitory on Georgetown University's main campus were unveiled last week and will be submitted to the Old Georgetown Board March 6. After criticism from students and alumni, the university called for a redesign. Sasaki Associates, architects for the Northeast Triangle residence hall, "worked with students and alumni through a series of open forums and small group meetings to design a building that will serve the university’s students and the campus community well into the future," according to the university. The new dorm will be between Reiss Science Building

living space. The building, which borders the Quadrangle, is to be renovated during the summer with Ayers Saint Gross as architect and Manhattan Construction, which renovated Dahlgren Chapel, as construction manager.

Bowling for CAG’s Concerts

Paul and Leslie Maysak playing bocce at Pinstripes.

Photo by Bill Starrels 2014 Concerts in the Parks kick-off party Feb. 22 at Pinstripes, the new Italian restaurant with bowling and bocce, part of the Georgetown Park retail space. The lively party was co-chaired

by Colman Riddell, Jennie Reno and Jennifer Altemus. Paul and Leslie Maysak were winners at the bocce court. ★

The Citizens Association of Georgetown held its

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Town Topics

BUSINESS NEWS

By R ob e rt Devaney

meant to give customers that feeling of being on the coast of Italy without leaving D.C. Fiola Mare includes an all-season enclosed veranda to enjoy the view in any weather and seats by the boardwalk when the weather is nice. The menu features fine coastal fare prepared with Trabocchi’s Italian interpretation with seafood from all over the world. The restaurant includes an open kitchen, mixology station and a seafood market counter. At the counter, customers can pick a whole fish priced by the pound, grilled and then filleted by a staff member at the table. Trabocchi is owner and chef of two other restaurants in D.C., Fiola and Casa Luca. Fiola Mare is located at 3050 K Street, NW (entrance at 31st Street and the waterfront).

Dean & Deluca Cited Again for Health Code Violations

for a day by D.C. Health for rodent droppings and more. Live birds in the outside cafe were also a problem. At the time, the coffee bar in the outside cafe was moved into the building.

Also sold outside were bagels, pastries and other sweets. Now, all those items are sold inside the historic market building. The store is open again.

Capella Named #1 on TripAdvisor The Georgetown Capella earned the top hotel ranking of 129 hotels in D.C. by TripAdvisor.

The D.C. property, which opened its doors March 2013, was also named one of the “Top 25 Luxury Hotels in the U.S.” by TripAdvisor members in January. To see all 2014 Travelers’ Choice winners, visit tripadvisor.com/TravelersChoice.

Tea Room Lady Camellia Opens on Prospect

Fabio Trabocchi

Fiola Mare Makes a Splash Fabio Trabocchi’s third restaurant Fiola Mare opened last week at Washington Harbour and appears to be a big hit. Trabocchi’s inspiration for the restaurant comes from the restaurants by the sea where he worked at the beginning of his career. The view of the Potomac River is

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

The couple that brought you Macaron Bee on Wisconsin Avenue has opened another busi- Deborah and Han Kim of the new Lady Camellia on Prospect ness. This one is a tea room -- Lady Camellia -- at Street.

3261 Prospect St., NW, next to Booeymonger’s.

It offers Macaron Bee’s classics, along with scones, croissants, tea cakes, sandwiches, tartlets Dean & Deluca at 3276 M St., NW, was and cupcakes. Business owners Deborah and closed Feb. 19 for one day by the D.C. Health Han Kim have renovated the space which was Department. The fancy food store was cited for once Tuscany Cafe with a pink and white decor various health hazards, “including but not limand wallpaper from Britain. The new place will ited to heavy infestation of vermin.” Last year also serve as the main kitchen for their macarons -- also in February -- Dean & Deluca was closed up the street at Macaron Bee as well as an office.

Getting Warmer: Biz Group Meets at Neyla As the snow continues to melt during this long winter, the Georgetown Business Association met for its February reception at Neyla on N Street in its special tented room that reminded all of balmier climes. Touted for its Mediterranean cuisine, the attentive staff kept the platters and the glasses full. GBA president Riyad Said thanked the guests who filled the room and said that the GBA had its 2014 to-do list ready with lobbying efforts and special events.

Business

Egg by Susan Lazar B y Pa u l in a Ph elp s

Cecilia Browning of the House of Sweden, Karen Daly of Dumbarton House and lawyer Charles Camp.

A

Sara Mokhtari of Tari Boutique and Mousa Sbihan of Neyla.

lthough Georgetown has long been known as a college town, recently it has become a very popular place for new parents to raise their kids. Next time you walk down M Street, notice the army of strollers you pass. This increase has brought baby businesses to the forefront. The newest addition is

We are proud to announce the opening of The Winsor Branch and our new headquarters!

Egg, a children’s clothing and toy store that uses only eco-friendly materials.

Egg moved into 1661 Wisconsin Ave., NW, on Nov. 1, replacing another children’s store, and has already attracted a lot of business. “We had a local come to us and explain that this location used to be a children’s store, and it was a great location for them,” said Megan Dieringer, manager of the Birmingham, Mich., store.

Created in 2003 by designer Susan Lazar, Egg started off designing and selling maternity clothing and infant clothes. No longer making maternity clothing, the brand has evolved and expanded, opening locations in Southampton, N.Y., and, most recently, Georgetown. Egg can also be found in major department stores such as Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus. The store now offers children’s sizes up to size 8.

A unique aspect of the Egg brand is the emphasis on eco-friendly and organic materials. Although toys aren’t the first items that come to mind when you say eco-friendly, Dieringer makes the point that “eco-friendly is a term that can be used for almost anything.”

She explains: “Whether it is having a biodegradable toy or throwing a plastic water bottle away, both are highly consumed products.”

Dieringer continues: “Having eco-friendly toys is allowing us to help the earth and educating your kids. The clothing holds up so it can

be passed down to kids.” In the event that you do need to throw something away, “it is going to be put back into the earth…what’s greater than that?”

The store is kid-friendly, too, offering toys and snacks. “We try to cater to the little ones. It is easier for Mom to shop when they have something to do,” says Dieringer.

The future is looking bright for Egg. A spring event is planned for the end of February or the beginning of March.

credit: White Gold

March 18-30

dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org

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EDITORIAL/ OPINON

The Redrawn Corcoran: a Question of Leadership

O

Jack Evans Report: D.C. Deserves a Ratings Upgrade

E

n Feb. 19, the long-troubled Corcoran Gallery of Art announced a plan for George Washington University to take over its landmark Beaux-Arts building and the Corcoran College of Art and Design, housed there, and at the former Fillmore School on 35th Street in Georgetown.

The Corcoran art collection – minus works to be distributed to other museums – is to become the property of the National Gallery of Art, which will use the 17th Street galleries to show modern and contemporary art. (There is also talk of a “Corcoran Legacy Gallery,” where some of the museum’s most famous works will continue to be displayed at that location.)

In the Washington Post, Art & Architecture critic Philip Kennicott called the plan “the end of the Corcoran and its final dismemberment.” But there is a good chance that some of what made the Corcoran a uniquely valuable Washington

institution will live on. It is a question of leadership.

GWU President Steven Knapp was provost of Johns Hopkins University from 1996 to 2007, when the formerly independent Peabody Institute, a music conservatory of national importance, expanded as a constituent school of Johns Hopkins without giving up its distinct culture, faculty and student body.

National Gallery Director Earl Powell III wrote his Ph.D. dissertation on Thomas Cole, a major figure in 19th-century American art, are in which the Corcoran collection is unsurpassed.

Chairman of the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, In a New York Times article about the proposed

BY D AV ID P OS T ike everyone, I dug my car out of mounds of snow, shoveled driveways and sidewalks, walked to a grocery store for nothing in particular and watched television weather reports tell me what I could see out my windows.

I watched college students build an igloo (totally cool!!!) and spent an hour or so chasing snow removal tractors until I found one to clean my company’s parking lot.

But my snow story is about the airlines, mergers and big companies.

I had a flight scheduled in the middle of last week’s snow storm. Despite seven or eight inches of snow and ice on the ground, a governor-declared state of emergency and warnings to stay off the roads, my flight remained on schedule. At 10:52 AM, less than six hours before boarding, it was cancelled.

Seven minutes later, it was reinstated.

An hour later, US Airways again cancelled my flight and offered me the next open seat, four days later arriving at midnight even though my return was scheduled for the next morning at 7 AM. The airlines offered to extend my return three days that would change my weekend trip to missing an entire work week. It then offered to “change” my ticket for the same ticket a week later for a $200 change fee plus $275 for a

higher priced ticket. Finally, it agreed to refund my ticket, so I searched for another ticket.

US Airways and American airlines just merged. Both offered flights, in fact, the EXACT SAME FLIGHT under different names. US Airways cost $600 and American cost $662. Makes you wonder which fare will survive the merger.

Comcast and TimeWarner Cable, the two largest cable providers in the nation, are also merging in an umpteen billion dollar deal.

Comcast is rated by its customers as the worst cable company and TimeWarner is rated second worst.

Hospitals and healthcare organizations, banks, pharmacy chains, grocery stores and retail chains are merging at a dizzying rate.

Wealth is aggregating into the hands of a few, the middle class is shrinking and the ranks of the poor are growing. (In many counties, well over half of public school students are on free or reduced lunch.)

Does the consolidation of wealth and power make the economy better?

The Corcoran Gallery and School of Art at 17th and New York Avenue, NW in Washington, D.C. The building is a National Historic Landmark.

partnership, Powell called the Corcoran’s exhibition spaces “arguably the most beautiful galleries of any museum in the United States.”

Knapp and Powell are leaders who are likely to “get it,” at the helm of institutions with the resources to make full use of the Corcoran’s exceptionally fine building and collection.

Whether they will work together to sustain the museum-school model and community engagement that helped to define the Corcoran’s identity – both locally and nationally – remains to be seen. We hope so. ★

Everyone has a snow story

L

PUBLISHER

Sonya Bernhardt EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Robert Devaney Please send all submissions of opinions for FEATURES EDITORS consideration to editorial@georgetowner.com Gary Tischler Ari Post

Charlene Louis

Tim Riethmiller Nathan Hill

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GRAPHIC DESIGN

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This snow cost me $175 more. Large airline company “rules” prevented them from replacing the service an Act of God interfered with. As the snow melts, cable bills will rise, groceries will cost more, insurance companies will tell me what doctors and drug stores to use, somebody in Washington or San Francisco will decide whether I qualify for a loan and the safety net for those in need will shrink.

Snow can cover up a lot of problems and turn any landscape into a gift of beauty. But when snow melts, it can get ugly. Even though my snow day cost $175, it slowed everything else down for one beautiful day.★

Corrie Dyke

very year, the Mayor, the Chairman of the Council, the Chief Financial Officer and I as Chairman of the Finance Committee, meet with the three major Wall Street rating agencies (Fitch, Moody’s, and Standard & Poor’s). These meetings are important because the rating agencies evaluate the fiscal health of cities, counties and states throughout the country.

These ratings, in turn, affect the interest rate imposed on our borrowing through public finance bonds. The proceeds of these bonds allow us to make capital improvements, such as work at our schools, libraries and even roads (backed in part by the federal government, as well). The better the rating, the lower the interest rates and the less it costs to borrow the money. Because of the increase in our bond ratings, the District has saved millions in debt service over the years.

This year, the District delegation was pleased to report on the city’s annual audit of FY 2013, which reported an increase in our general fund balance to approximately $1.75 billion on the basis of a 2013 budget surplus of about $321 million. In addition, the delegation discussed plans to further build the fund balance, fully fund our reserve accounts and remain within our 12% debt cap.

I made a presentation to each of the agencies regarding our eligibility for a ratings upgrade.

While we have made tremendous progress since the 1990s, I believe we are overdue for yet another upgrade. Other than Standard & Poor’s, which gave us an upgrade last year, the other two ratings agencies have not given us an upgrade in four years. I reminded the agencies that we’ve done everything they have asked of us – we have put a cap on our borrowing, replenished the fund balance in our “savings accounts” and produced structurally sound budgets for a number of years.

The rating agencies are realizing that the District’s economy has changed. We used to be able to tax only about 30% of the income earned in the District due to our inability to tax commuters. Now, as the number of District residents continues to increase, we are able to tax approximately 45% of the income earned in the District. This means we have a stronger, more stable economy, and we are working hard to diversify. I always use the example of “BCD.” We are currently rated better than Baltimore, Cleveland and Detroit, but we should be on the same AAA ratings scale as Boston, Charlotte and Denver.

Last year, my presentation worked and we got an upgrade from Standard & Poor’s. I hope we will get another upgrade this year, but either way, I will continue to advocate for balanced budgets and spending within our means while continuing to bolster our savings accounts. ★

Neshan Naltchayan CONTRIBUTORS COPY EDITOR

Susan Lund

PHOTOGRAPHERS

INTERNS

Tim Riethmiller Philip Bermingham Jeff Malet

Serafine George Nicole Cusick Paulina Phelps

Mary Bird Pamela Burns Linda Roth Conte Jack Evans Donna Evers John Fenzel Amos Gelb Lisa Gillespie

Jody Kurash Stacy Notaras Murphy Walter Nicholls David Post Alison Schafer Shari Sheffield Bill Starrels

POLITICS

Dream Scenarios for Getting Elected Mayor

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

BY MAR K PL OT K IN

T

he D.C. Democratic Primary is Tuesday, April 1. I encourage every registered Democrat to vote. In fact, because D.C. has same-day registration, if you are not presently a registered voter, you can register at your precinct that very day and vote.

If you are a registered Republican or Independent and you want to get in on the action, you can change your party status on April 1 and the day after switch back to your original status.

Every candidate for political office has a “dream scenario” for getting elected. With the election just over a month away, this is the right time to get into the heads of the mayoral candidates and imagine what their dream scenario is for April 1.

Let’s start with the incumbent: Mayor Vincent Gray. The mayor’s hopes and prayers are that U.S. Attorney Ron Machen does not indict him before the primary. If this happens, as George H.W. Bush so aptly would say, “He’s in deep doo-doo.”

Let’s assume there is no indictment. The mayor has an “Eastern Strategy.” Rack up huge margins East of the River in Wards 7 and 8 and win in Northeast D.C. (Ward 5). In addition, run competitively in Ward 4.

Four years ago, Gray beat the incumbent mayor Adrian Fenty by 10 points. This is how he did it. So, why not just repeat the same formula?

The city is booming and Gray will try to take

the credit.

Jack Evans has to be creative in his fantasizing. If the mayor is indicted, he will be helped. However, he’s already lost one powerful asset: the endorsement of the Washington Post.

That went to Councilmember Muriel Bowser.

So, how can it happen for Evans?

The mayor’s hopes and prayers are that U.S. Attorney Ron Machen does not indict him before the primary. If this happens, as George H.W. Bush so aptly would say, “He’s in deep doo-doo.”

In his home ward, Ward 2, he pulls huge numbers. In white, wealthy Ward 3 he wins with comfortable margins (besting chief competitor Tommy Wells). He does better in AfricanAmerican wards (4, 5, 7 and 8) than expected.

His message that he is the most experienced and capable to manage the city sinks in. Also, a new development occurs: bitter verbal sparring between Gray and Bowser (they personally despise each other) erupts. Voters say a pox on both your houses and turn to Evans.

Presently, this scenario is a long shot, but Evans is very well funded and has the resources to reach a lot of voters to try and get them on

his side.

Muriel Bowser is right now considered Gray’s chief opponent. The early Washington Post endorsement gave her candidacy a huge boost, especially among undecided white voters.

Her imagined scenario is to do very well in her home ward (Ward 4) and run strong in all the other predominately African American wards.

Her gender and her race are distinct advantages.

But, as time goes on, will she appear to be a political Oakland (no there, there). Another John Ray. Remember him?

Tommy Wells dreams of this scenario: get every white, liberal, progressive vote in the city and carry his home ward (Ward 6) with astounding numbers. His central tenet of not taking corporate contributions and being the clean, ethical candidate takes hold.

Vincent Orange: honestly, just cannot even think of a plausible dream-like scenario. But that won’t deter Vince. He will be on the ballot for eternity.

Andy Shallal has one dream. He becomes the Bill DeBlasio tale-of-two-cities, comefrom-behind-miracle candidate. It’s not going to happen!

Reta Lewis and Carlos Allen, dream on.

Thanks for throwing your hat in. I mean it. ★ Washingtonian Mark Plotkin is a national political commentator and analyst.

Dear David: A friend of mine brought to me the article about the story of the Georgetowner [“The Georgetowner’s March Through History … and Georgetown” by David Roffman; Jan. 29, 2014].

I enjoyed it.

I remember very well Ami Stewart. She often came to our restaurant on M Street, Chez Odette, which started about the same time when she launched the Georgetowner in 1954.

I am now past 93-years-old and still live in Washington, D.C., on Massachusetts Avenue and still have fond memories of all those years.

In 1975, we passed Chez Odette to one of our employees we trusted -- Maurice Pairel and his very helpful wife Elsa. They kept it for another dozen years and are still doing well.

I have known quite a few of those people who are gone so long ago. Thank you for remembering us.

Very warmly, Odette Pantelich Editor’s note: Odette Pantelich included in her written correspondence to the new office of The Georgetowner at 2801 M St., NW, a copy of a November 1981 Georgetowner article on the passing of her husband, restaurateur Vojislav Pantelich -- known to his friends as Voya. Such stories, memories and appreciations are part of the legacy of The Georgetowner -- about to celebrate its 60th anniversary -- and also inspire and surprise the writers of today’s features and profiles on this great village and city. ★

The Energetic, Unforgettable Suzi Gookin

BY D AV ID ROF F MAN A N D G A RY T I S C H LE R

W

e learned this week of the passing of former staffer Suzi Gookin on Feb. 14. Suzi covered the social scene for The Georgetowner during the 1970s and 1980s and never missed a deadline.

Ms. Gookin was The Georgetowner’s answer to Diana McLellan, who wrote “The Ear” column for the Washington Evening Star. Suzi wrote a gossip column for this newspaper entitled “Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat.” It was widely read in the community for its good-natured humor and often probing insights into the high and low society of Washington, D.C. Suzi was out all night long, dancing at Tramps Discotheque,

mingling at charity balls and fundraisers, gallery hopping and just plain pounding the pavement for a good story.

“She had her opinions about things and she’d let you know about them,” said Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Ed Solomon, who represents Burleith, where Gookin lived. “I didn’t always agree with her, but I admired her.

She talked the talk and walked the walk.”

She chatted it up with the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Pele and Donna Summer, as well as every bartender and maitre d’ in town. Sometimes she got it wrong, but even then it made for good reading. She once sadly reported that Leon the

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window washer had passed away and it was such a loss for the community. Then, a few days later we got a call from a hysterical woman who said she was dining at Martin’s Tavern, seated in a booth by the window, when she looked up to see Leon washing the very window she was looking out of. She almost choked to death. Of course, Suzi reported that, too.

Suzi Gookin was an original -- no question about that -- and a Georgetown citizen in the way she engaged issues and loved the village.

Everything she did, she did with great enthusiasm, great humor and great passion. We will miss her. ★

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REAL ESTATE

Death, Taxes and Mortgage Deductions I

BY BILL STA RRE L S

t’s that time of year again. Time to call your accountant, collect your financial documents and prepare to have your taxes ready by April 15.

One of the biggest tax deductions for most Americans are tax-advantaged items related to homeownership.

Mortgage-related interest on first mortgages up to $1 million on a primary home is generally tax-deductible. If one has a second mortgage, typically a home equity line of credit, one can deduct an additional $100,000 of a mortgage for a total value of $1,100,00 of mortgage value.

Typically the first three or four years are almost all interest and very little principal. The amount that one saves on his or her taxes is directly related to one’s tax bracket. If one is in a 30-percent bracket, then 30 percent is the savings. If you have mortgage interest of $10,000 and are in a 30-percent bracket, the ultimate savings will be $3,000.

For some homeowners who have mortgage insurance on their loan, the cost of the mortgage insurance may be deductible. This only applies to mortgages written after 2007.

Points on a primary home are tax deductible. On a purchase transaction, the points are deductible the same year as the purchase. On refinance mortgages, it gets a little bit more com-

plicated. Points are deductible but are spread out over the amortization period of the loan. What this means is if you paid $2,000 in points on a 15-year refinance loan, you divide the $2,000 by 15 (the amortization period). That means only $133.33 is deductible per year.

When that mortgage is retired through a refinance or sale of the home, then the value of the points is accelerated. If one sold the home after five years, then the remaining value of the points ($1,333) is then deductible that tax year. This is why it can be important to bring prior mortgage statements to your accountant’s attention. If the points on a purchase loan were paid by a seller or lender credit, the points are still tax deductible.

There are other items that are tax-advantaged, including property taxes.

The bottom line is if you bought or refinanced a home in 2013 bring both the new settlement papers (HUD-I) and the settlement sheet from the previous settlement from the last refinance to your accountant.

Make sure you take advantage of all the tax benefits of home ownership. ★ Bill Starrels is a mortgage loan officer (NMLS#485021) and lives in Georgetown. He can be reached at 703-625-7355

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IN COUNTRY

WINTER WINE IN THE COUNTRY

BY CORRIE DYK E

Boxwood Winery

J

ust when we think spring is coming, that brisk, wet snow hits us in the face and reminds us that the coldest winter we’ve seen in years is still not passed. So while the winter blues and cabin fever drags on, head out to the county where the red wine is flowing and warm fires burn. Here are a few wineries we’ll be enjoying well into the warmer months ahead.

Cana Cana Vineyards and Winery is located in Loudoun County countryside between Aldie and Middleburg. Situated atop John Mosby Highway, Cana offers beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Open Thursdays-Monday from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and on Fridays from 11 a.m. – 9

p.m. Live music Fridays from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Tastings are $10 and bottles range from $16-$33.

38600 John Mosby Highway, Middlburg, Va. 703-3482458, canavineyards.com Upcoming events: Friday, Feb. 28: Jason Masi, acoustic guitar, Folk, Blues

Boxwood Further into Middleburg sits Boxwood Estate Winery. Boxwood produces red wine exclusively in the Bordeaux tradition. The winery’s main grape is Cabernet Sauvignon. The interior of the tasting room is stainless steel modern.

All the rooms are encased in glass to give you

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC. 11

IN COUNTRY to give you a first-hand look at the wine making process. Visit the ‘Cave’ and find yourself surrounded by oak barrels of wine waiting to come to fruition. Boxwood is open Friday-Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

2042 Burrland Lane, Middleburg, Va. 540-687-8778, boxwoodwinery.com

Leaves of Grass Leaves of Grass Vineyards in Middleburg puts the environment first. They locally source their grapes and are currently growing NY 95, the first grape to be grown from a “no-spray” vineyard.

The disease resistant red grape allows Leaves of Grass to be chemical free. Tasting fee is $5. The vineyard is open daily by appointment.

39060 John Mosby Highway, Middleburg, Va., 202-2944304, leavesofgrassvineyards.com

Otium Cellars Set hillside just on the outskirts of Purcellville, Otium Cellars prides itself on high-quality German wines. The vineyard is home to three distinct German grapes including: Lemberger, Dornfelder and Grau Bergander (a German Pinot Gris). Otium Cellars is open Monday and Thursday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

18050 Tranquility Road, Purcellville, Va., 540-338-2027, otiumcellars.com Upcoming events: Live music every other Friday, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

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Royal Rabbit Vineyard

Royal Rabbit Vineyard Royal Rabbit makes fruit focused, full flavored wine. They produce a variety of wines ranging from dry to lightly sweet. Royal Rabbit is founded on the idea that oak and sugar should enhance a wine, not dominate it. Open FridaySunday from Noon -5 p.m. Current tastings at Royal Rabbit are offered as part of the Piedmont 4 Wine Trail Event; $20 for two to visit four wineries, and receive 10 percent off purchases.

Bottles range from $15-18, including their newest Sir Isaac, a Granny Smith apple wine that is both sweet and tart. 443-721-6692, 1090 Jordan

Sawmill Rd, Parkton, Md. 443-721-6692, royalrabbitvineyards.com

French and American oak barrels, a tank room and a cellar. The tasting room includes a patio and both an indoor and outdoor fireplace to cozy up to. Open Monday, Thursday, Friday Noon- 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

8 Chains North Vineyard

38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford, Va, 571-439-2255, 8chainsnorth.com

8 Chains North is located seven miles north of Leesburg off Route 9. Last year’s harvest was the first crop of usable grapes for the young vineyard. The winery is home to a barrel room with

Upcoming Events: Sunday, March 2, Music and Wine on 9 with Kristen Beaubien, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

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Real Estate Scholarships for the Military It’s our turn to serve you!

Wes Foster, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of The Long & Foster Companies is no stranger to military service. A veteran himself, Wes has chosen to demonstrate his gratitude to those who serve in the US Military by providing active duty personnel, honorably discharged veterans and the spouses of both groups with scholarships for real estate licensing classes so they can benefit from a career in real estate.

To learn more about the P. Wesley Foster Military Service Scholarship, contact your local Long & Foster office.

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WEDDING

Wait, you can get married where!?

W The Newseum

BY SERA F INE GEORG E ashington offers many beautiful, historic sites for tourists and residents alike, several of which could also serve as the backdrop for wedding ceremonies.

On the National Mall there are three places to say ‘I do’: The Jefferson Memorial west lawn, the George Mason Memorial and the D.C. War Memorial. Though stunning and unique locations, having a wedding here takes a lot of preparation. First, couples must apply for a special use permit at the D.C. parks commission.

These permits can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to process and cost $90. At the Jefferson Memorial, a wedding is allotted two hours for set up, the ceremony and the break down. Even less time is allowed at the George

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

National’s Park

Mason Memorial where there is a one hour limit and no setup allowed. If you’re planning on having a professional photographer at any of the locations, you’ll need to file an additional form and pay a $50 fee.

Whether you’re having a wedding for four people or a thousand, Nationals Park could be your venue. The park offers many different sized spaces as well as catering from Levy Restaurants. Food choices range from baseball fare to plated dinners. You don’t have to be a baseball enthusiast to have your wedding here, but if you are, you can have batting practice on the field or an appearance by the mascots to make the day even more special.

The Whitemore House, home to the Women’s

The National Mall

National Democratic Club, is a historic mansion in DuPont Circle that welcomes weddings.

The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was granted museum status in 2000. The house has nine rooms and an outdoor courtyard for guests to enjoy. The venue provides catering for smaller groups, but outside catering is permitted. Bartenders are provided and all alcohol must be purchased through the house.

The National Building Museum on F Street N.W. is a prestigious venue where guests will be greeted with 75-foot Corinthian columns in the great hall. The space can accommodate up to 1,600 guests. Couples need to hire their own caterers and any other desired vendors.

The Newseum holds events on the seventh and eighth floor which can accommodate multiple events. The museum itself can be booked as well offering views of the Capitol, National Mall and surrounding museums. Weddings are held on the terraces. Food and beverage service is exclusively done by Wolfgang Puck Catering.

Looking for a green wedding that’s a little less in touch with nature? The National Press Club just might be your venue. As part of their green initiative, they are completely powered by wind power. The club is centrally located downtown. Situated on the 13th floor of the National Press Building, the Club offers a variety of rooms and an in-house caterer.

Georgetown’s Brides & Grooms Tara de Nicolas married Bradley Duckworth on Feb. 8 at the Inn at Willow Grove in Orange, Va. The bride’s dress is by Nicole Miller and from Lovely Bridal Shop in Georgetown.

De Nicolas is a graduate of the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business Master’s in Leadership program (May 2013) and the principal of Georgetown Consulting Group, an PR strategy, brand marketing and events consulting firm.

Duckworth is the general manager for DAMCO, the world’s leading provider of freight forwarding and supply chain management services. Bradley is in the Executive MBA program at Georgetown University, graduating in May 2015.

The couple resides in Georgetown with their beloved rescue doggies.

Mark and Sally Ein got married Sept. 21, 2013, at their home, the Beall-Washington House, at 2920 R St., NW. The bride wore Vera Wang, purchased from the Bridal Salon at Saks Jandel. Mark is an investor, entrepreneur and philanthropist as well as co-chairman of Kastle Systems and founder and owner of World TeamTennis franchise, the Washington Kastles.

He is also founder and CEO of Venturehouse Group. Sally is a policy analyst at the government affairs firm, Mehlman Vogel Castagnetti, Inc.

WEDDING

Nancy Itteilag and Jack Donnelly had the great fortune to be the inaugural wedding at Bourbon Steak at the Four Seasons on Pennsylvania Avenue, Dec. 20, 2008. The bride wore a gown from Jenny. Itteilag is a real estate agent with Long & Foster Christie’s International and her husband Jack Donnelly is a commercial real estate broker and appraiser.

Tara de Nicolas & Bradley Duckworth Photo by Rich Kessler

Around the World Wedding Traditions T

BY SERA F INE GEORG E

raditonal weddings often conjure up images of a white dress, something blue and maybe Grandma’s embroidered handkerchief. But that’s not every bride’s dream day. Wedding customs vary greatly based on a person’s heritage. Here are some nuptial traditions from different cultures.

At the end of the reception, brides in Peru don’t throw their bouquets over their heads.

They have another tradition to determine which woman will be the next to tie the knot - a cake pull. Single ladies gather around the wedding cake from which hang multiple ribbons. Before the cake is cut, they pull the ribbons to see which of the lucky ladies has a mock wedding ring attached. Like the bouquet toss, whoever finds the ring is supposed to be the next person to get hitched.

As if one dress isn’t hard enough to choose, Chinese women sometimes choose three wedding dresses to wear on the big day. The first is a form fitting, silk, red dress to wear during the ceremony. The dress is red because the color symbolizes luck and prosperity in Chinese culture. The second is a white dress much like that found in a ypical western-style wedding.

The third dress is chosen by the bride to change into during the reception.

In India, a traditional wedding spans three days including several pre-and-post nuptial ceremonies. One is the Mehndi ceremony. It’s held just before the wedding. Mehndi is an elaborate design drawn on the hands and feet of the bride from the plant dye henna. It is believed the darker the mehndi, the better the chance of a successful marriage and the more accepted the bride will be into her husband’s family. Tradition holds that the newlywed is exempt from household chores until the henna has faded away.

Russian families take part in a ritual called “vikup nevesty,” or, “ransom for the bride.” This lighthearted ceremony allows the bride’s family to keep their veiled daughter hidden from the groom who must then offer gifts, often money or jewellry, to finally claim his betrothed.

Mark Ein and Sally Stiebel Ein Photo by Donna Newman

Nancy Itteilag and Jack Donnelly Photo by Stu Estler

Traditional Chinese wedding dress with phoenix crown headpiece, Qing Dynasty style. Still used in many parts of southeast Asia, including Taiwan.

In Ireland, the bride isn’t just worried about flowers and table settings; being carried away by fairies is also on to her list of wedding day stressors. It is believed that fairies are drawn to beautiful things and since the bride is beautiful, they will try to steal her away. While dancing at the reception, the bride is careful to always keep one foot on the ground.

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The Spring Arts Preview The Best of What's to Come

Look for the world premiere of “Camp David,” a drama about the Egypt-Israel peace treaty, at Arena Stage in March. Illustration courtesy of Arena Stage.

TISCHLER’s PICKS

By Gary T is chl er

“Richard III” at the Folger Shakespeare Theatre is a never before re-configuration of the Elizabethan Theatre, murder most foul all around, tense direction by Robert Richmond and a frightening and sly Drew Cortese as the murderous king, through March 16.

“We are Proud to Present….,” like nothing you’ll ever see on stage, as six actors take on the subject of race and genocide. A new play by Jackie Sibblies Drury at the Woolly Mammoth Theatre through March 9 “Moby-Dick”--- by the Washington National Opera Company in the Kennedy Center’s Opera House. Even if you don’t like opera, this is the one that will get you into the game. Spectacular, beautifully sung with grand music by Jake Higgie.

Through March 8.

Coming Up. “World Stages: International Theater Festival

Three performances I recommend -- and a sneak peak of many more to come:

2014,” on Kennedy Center Stages March 10-30.

A feast at multiple venues of the best theater from elsewhere. Check out “The Suit,” from the Theatre des Bouffes du Nord, legendary director Peter Brooks adaptation of a South African short story; “Savannah Bay,” starring Emmanuelle Riva, from the Theatre de ‘Ateleir; and “Rupert,” about, you guessed it, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, making its U.S. premiere, by the Melbourne Theater Company. Go to kennedycenter.org/worldstages for more information.

“Water by the Spoonful,” a Pulitzer Prize winner by Quiara Alegria Hudes. is at the Studio Theater, March 5-April 23.

Schubert’s “Winterreise,” a great song cycle for voice and piano, performed by bass-baritone Ryan McKinny and pianist Kim Pensinger comes to the Barns at Wolf Trap, March 7.

WNO’s “Moby-Dick” with Matthew Worth (Starbuck), Carl Tanner (Captain Ahab) and company.

Photo by Scott Suchman

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ART

TISCHLER’s PICKS

C ON TIN U ED ...

“Hamlet, the rest is silence,” Synetic Theatre’s, wordless rendering of Shakespeare’s tale of the Danish prince, March 13-April 6.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a play that will sneak up on you like a friend you didn’t know you had. At Ford’s Theatre March 14-May 17.

“Camp David,” a new play, about Carter,

Verdi’s Il corsaro Sunday, March 9 at 6:00pm Lisner Auditorium | Washington, DC

URBAN OASIS

Michael Fabiano | Nicole Cabell | Tamara Wilson Sebastian Catana | Maestro Antony Walker

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202-364-5826 | www.concertopera.org

February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

Begin, Sadat and a peace treaty, directed by Molly Smith, at Arena Stage, Mar 21-May 4.

Voices From a Changing Middle East Festival. Theater J presents its annual festival, featuring “The Admission,” in collaboration with the Cameri Theatre and the Arab-Hebrew Theatre of Jaffa, by Motti Lerner, March 20-April 6 and “Golda’s Balcony”, April 10-27, with Tovah Feldshu portraying Golda Meir in a play by William Gibson (“The Miracle Worker”). Plus readings and other events.

The British Invasion: The Beatles & The Rolling Stones—The Washington Ballet presents two rock ballets, “Trey McIntire’s ‘A Day in the Life’” and Christopher Bruce’s “Rooster,” March 6-8 at the Kennedy Center Some musical highlights: Kathy Mattea at Sixth and I Historic Synagogue, a Washington Performing Arts Society concert, March 1; “Sweet Honey in the Rock” at Music Center at Strathmore Mach 1; The Minetti Quartet at the Embassy of Austria, Embassy Series March 7; Johnny Clegg at Lisner Auditorium, March 29; “The Romantics: Schubert and Goethe,” In Series at Heurich House Museum, April 11-12; “Of Thee We Sing: The Marian Anderson 75th Anniversary Celebration (Washington Performing Arts Society), with Jessye Norman and Soloman Howard at DAR Constitution Hall, April 12; Hilary Hahn, Music Center at Strathmore (WPAS); Blue Note at 75, May 4-11, jazz celebration concerts at the Kennedy Center.

Keep The Curtain Open!

BY NICO LE CUSICK The spring theater season is off to a strong start, with some venues pushing boundaries with their productions and others bringing mainstream favorites to town.

For it’s production of Richard III, running through March 16, the Folger Theatre reconfigured it’s Elizabethan Theatre into its first ever theatre in the round. Traditionally used as a proscenium space, the stage has been flipped, making the playing space a central square ring with seats on all sides creating a very tense environment that thrusts spectators into the action of the play. A promo video showing how the space was transformed is at www.folger.edu.

Keegan Theatre is bringing a very different feel-good musical to town: “Hair,” opening Mar. 15. Last winter, Keegan produced a very successful run of “Cabaret,” so “Hair” – with several of the same cast members – is likely to be an equally successful production.

The Washington Ballet will present a special limited engagement at the Kennedy Center, “British Invasion: The Beatles & The Rolling Stones,” Mar. 5-9. Marking the 50th anniversary of the Beatles coming to America, this thrilling and thought-provoking performance is set to classic tunes by the Beatles and the Stones. The featured choreographers include Trey McIntyre, Christopher Bruce and Christopher Wheeldon.

The Studio Theatre is bringing D.C. a show with a lot of buzz: “Water by the Spoonful,” the 2012 Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Quiara Alegría Hudes. The second play in her trilogy, the play is about Elliot, a combat veteran who lives in North Philadelphia. Elliot, who is taking care of his dying mother, relies on his cousin Yaz as he tries to adjust to civilian life. Other characters face the challenge of getting clean and sober as they struggle against adversity. Described by the New York Times as “a moving collage of lives in crisis,” the show opens Mar. 5.

Check out the spring performance guide to learn more about the productions on D.C.-area stages in the coming months.

ART

THE GEORGETOWN CONCERT SERIES

THE KENNEDY STRING QUARTET Family Concert

SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2014 4:00 PM

ABOUT:

Spring Visual Arts Preview

BY AR I P OS T

National Portrait Gallery Face Value: Portraiture in the Age of Abstraction April 18, 2014 – January 11, 2015 Portraiture in the 20th century was a difficult terrain for artists to traverse. It was a time when many members of the artistic community agreed that abstraction was the new artistic language and figurative work had little more to offer the world in terms of progress and innovation. “Face Value” is a group exhibit of artists who helped reinvent portraiture for their era and demonstrated the

enduring value of exploring the face and figure.

Pulling a collection of work from the mid-1940s through the 1970s, the exhibit features artists such as Elaine de Kooning, Robert Rauschenburg, Chuck Close, Jamie Wyeth, Andy Warhol and more, highlighting those who pushed the boundaries of portrait traditions, invigorated and challenged by new modes of abstraction and the roiling currents of their time.

American Art Museum Ralph Fasanella: Lest We Forget May 2 – August 3, 2014

Italians who immigrated to America in the early 20th century, searching for a better life for their families.

Growing up in the working class neighborhoods of New York City, Fasanella (1914 – 1997) worked as a truck driver, union organizer, gas station owner and ice delivery man before turning to painting in the 1940s. Though untrained as an artist, he developed a style that reflected his working class and immigrant roots, celebrating the common man and tackling complex issues of postwar America in colorful and infectiously exuberant paintings of urban life. “Lest We Forget” celebrates the 100th birthday of this quintessential American artist, bringing together paintings spanning his 52-year career. Don’t miss this one!

In this lively program for children and adults, a string quartet from the National Symphony Orchestra engages the audience with musical contrasts, from the technical to the emotional. Enjoy hands-on fun with the musical instrument “petting zoo” which gives children a chance to get up close with the instruments they see played on stage.

TICKETS: CHILDREN: FREE | ADULTS @ $30.00 each Free parking at the Hyde Addison School parking lot directly across from the church on O Street.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND TO PURCHASE TICKETS www.stjohnsgeorgetown.org

3240 O Street, NW Washington, DC

Ralph Fasanella’s parents were among three million

the World

Sounds Better

In Here!

03/04 FLAMENCO FESTIVAL 2014 Gala Flamenca: Antonio Canales, Carlos Rodriguez, Karime Amaya & Jesús Carmona Co-presented with Jaleo by José Andrés

03/07 FLAMENCO FESTIVAL 2014 Ballet Flamenco Eva Yerbabuena: “Lluvia” Co-presented with Jaleo by José Andrés

03/18 FLAMENCO FESTIVAL 2014 Tomatito Sextet

03/29 Johnny Clegg 04/25-04/26 MOMIX: Botanica

Co-presented with Washington Performing Arts Society

04/27 What Makes It Great?© with Rob Kapilow

Co-presented with Washington Performing Arts Society and The Smithsonian Associates

04/28 Ben Folds Solo

Co-presented with Jaleo by José Andrés

TICKETS ON SALE NOW Visit lisner.gwu.edu or call 202.994.6800 for more information or to purchase tickets.

LISN_1314_2

GMG, INC. February 26, 2014

23

ART The Kreeger Museum

and variety of fish and other species. The highlight will be the public debut of the “large fish” series of twenty woodblock prints by renowned Japanese artist Hiroshige (1797 – 1858).

K@20: Kreeger Museum 20th Anniversary Exhibition

February 20 – July 31, 2014

Dumbarton House “

Choice Summer 2014 Dates Available for Wedding and Special Event Bookings ” Contact us Today!

(202) 337-2288 | 2715 Q St. NW Washington, D.C. 20007 | Events@DumbartonHouse.org

The Phillips Collection

As a longtime champion of local and regional artists, it is fitting that the Kreeger's 20th anniversary exhibition should highlight Washington area artists.

“K@20” features 14 artists from all walks of life who have played a large part in shaping this city's unique and remarkable arts scene. Showcasing a broad spectrum of mediums, subject matter, and styles by renowned artists such as Sam Gilliam, Gene Davis, Jeff Spaulding, Yuriko Yamaguchi, Tom Green, Ledelle Moe and Michael Platt, the selection of artworks offers a fresh perspective on the collective strength of Washington's art community.

Made in the USA: American Masters from the Phillips Collection March 1 – August 31, 2014 The Phillips Collection's private collection of American masterworks is finally coming home, after a years-long worldwide tour. The exhibit tells the story of American art from the late 19th century, when it was entirely dismissed by the prominent European art communities, through post-war American art in the 1950s and 60s, when it came into its own as a significant international force of artistic progress and innovation. The exhibit will be a landmark artistic experience, featuring over 200 works by over 100 artists, and taking up most of the museum's gallery space. Artists range from early American progressives such as Arthur Dove and John Marin, to Mark Rothko, Edward Hopper, Stuart Davis and Richard Deibenkorn. Don't miss it.

Freer and Sackler Galleries Bountiful Waters: Aquatic Life in Japanese Art

March 8 – September 14, 2014 If there is one thing that Japan is known for in America, it is its sushi and seafood culture that is second to none in the world. Indeed, since prehistoric times, the waters that surround the islands of the small and powerful nation have informed its culture and sustained its inhabitants. Flowing from mountain ranges to form rivers and lakes and feeding into the ocean, the plants and animals that live in and around the waters continue to be a major source of a revenue and a primary dietary source for its population. “Bountiful Waters” features a selection of prints, paintings, illustrated books and ceramics that depict Japanese appreciation for the beauty

Art Museum of the Americas Territories and Subjectivities: Contemporary Art from Argentina March 27 – Summer 2014 Identities of boundaries and belonging are formed through cultural affiliation and familiarity, and so in many ways the idea of territory is quite subjective.

For instance, most of us born in the United States will

Discovery Series

HABIB KOITÉ

“Mali’s biggest pop star” —Rolling Stone

MARCH 5

EDGAR MEYER MIKE MARSHALL

Remarkable double bassist and multi-instrumentalist

MARCH 6

WINTERREISE

Ryan McKinny, bass-baritone Kim Pensinger Witman, piano Schubert’s emotional tribute to lost love

MARCH 7

Discovery Series Discovery Series

PAUL BYROM Suave Irish tenor of Celtic Thunder fame

MARCH 12

BRENTANO QUARTET

A LATE QUARTET All Beethoven program featuring op. 131

MARCH 28

THE GOLDBERG VARIATIONS Pamela Frank, violin Nobuko Imai, viola Clemens Hagen, cello J.S. Bach’s masterpiece as you’ve never heard it!

APRIL 11

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HAPA 2/28 & 3/1 The Oak Ridge Boys 3/9 Solas 3/13 & 3/14

Southside Johnny & The Poor Fools 3/15 Tom Principato Band 3/20 Pearl and the Beard 3/21

Red Molly 3/27 Simon Townshend 4/9

John McCutcheon 4/24 PLUS MANY MORE!

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

ART proudly bond with any fellow citizen over this mutual belonging, while a native Texan and Oregonian might have bitterly conflicting ideas of politics and cultural history. “Territories and Subjectivities” will examine the very notion of territory as something that we define for ourselves, not as an inherent condition of the world. Featuring contemporary artists from each of Argentina's 23 provinces, this exhibit will present a panorama of modern-day Argentinian identity, revealing interweaving and conflicting notions of cultural ownership and identity within a single country that reflects the juxtaposition between any nation's singularity and clashes of regional identity.

National Sporting Library and Museum Foxcroft School: The Art of Women and the Sporting Life

March 15 – August 24, 2014 In conjunction with Foxcroft School’s Centennial Celebration, “Foxcroft School” is an exhibition focusing on women as sporting enthusiasts, sporting artists and sporting art collectors. The exhibition is comprised of loans from alumnae of the prestigious Middleburg college-preparatory school for girls and their relatives. Approximately thirty paintings and sculptures will provide a picture of the collecting interests of these remarkable women and their role in 20th century sporting life and art.

Corcoran Gallery of Art Jennifer Steinkamp and Jimmy Johnson: Loop March 15 – April 20, 2014

Drawing on the architecture of the Corcoran's rotunda, “Loop” is a site-specific visual and music installation created by media artist Jennifer Steinkamp and electronic composer Jimmy Johnson. Originally commissioned in 2000 for the Corcoran's 46th Biennial Exhibition, the artists use a high functioning graphics computer to create electronic visual patterns that enhance the space with rows of undulating multicolored digital rope and projections. Music plays along with the moving images. It will be an immersive and completely unique exhibit.

National Gallery of Art Andrew Wyeth: Looking Out, Looking In

May 4 – November 30, 2014 While no artist could be farther from the abstract, post-modern and pop art movements that define American art in the 20th century, Andrew Wyeth (1917 – 2009) is one of our era's great painters, who created a quiet shift in the tectonic plates of the American landscape.

A painter of formal virtuosity and stamina like almost no other of his lifetime, he used both Renaissance traditions (like egg tempera) and new world techniques to create some of the most indelible images of our time, largely centered around farms and quiet landscapes of his hometown in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania.

“Looking Out, Looking In” will present an exhibit of over 50 of Wyeth's paintings, drawings and tempera paintings focused around the artist's frequent use of windows as symbol, subject matter, framing device and inspiration.

BRITISH INVASION:

The Beatles & The Rolling Stones

MARCH 5–9

Eisenhower Theater, The Kennedy Center

Photo: Chong Sun, Andile Ndlovu, Jonathan Jordan, Jared Nelson by Tony Brown, imijphoto.com

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APRIL 16–27

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Eisenhower Theater, The Kennedy Center

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Photo: Luis R. Torres by Steve Vaccariello

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Hook and T i n k e r b e l l !

TICKETS NOW ON SALE at kennedy-center.org 202.467.4600 or at the Kennedy Center Box Office

washingtonballet.org

Voted “Best of 2011” — “A Hidden Gem” — Washingtonian Magazine 2012 “The Embassy Series is a jewel on the crown of Washington”— The Washington Post

Make this your most special evening out… a great anniversary event, birthday celebration, an impressive first date, or treat yourself regularly to the concert series. Invite your friends.

Don’t wait… tickets go fast… buy your tickets now!

Intimate, elegant settings in embassies and ambassadors’ residences — an “only in DC” experience Great concerts and after-concert wine and buffet dinner receptions Mingle with diplomats and music lovers!

Our twentieth season delivers a memorable and unique experience… pure music magic.

Tickets/season’s information: (202) 625-2361 • Order online at www.embassyseries.org

January 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

25

FOOD & WINE

3251 Prospect St. NW. Washington, DC 20007

What’s Cooking, Neighbor?

AULIE BUNYARATAPHAN, BANGKOK JOE’S

BY WALTER N IC H OL L S

H

A GEORGETOWN TRADITION SINCE 1934

OPEN LATE Mon-Wed until 10pm Thur-Sat until midnight

Fine Wines, Spirits, Kegs & Microbrew Beers 3429 M St NW Washington, DC 20007 202 337 4412

w w w.d i x iel iquordc.com 26 February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

ouse-made sauces are assertive at Bangkok Joe’s, the Washington Harbourbased Thai dumpling bar and restaurant, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year.

Chef and co-owner Aulie Bunyarataphan, a Bangkok native, lovingly makes each one using her grandmother’s recipes from back home. Her red chili sriracha (pronounced SIR-ratchah), in particular, is a kitchen essential.

The name comes from the Thai coastal city of Si Racha, where the preparation is believed to originate.

“My kids call it ‘Mommy Yummy’ sauce,” says Aulie with a laugh when we get together for a brief interview, slipped into a busy schedule of 12-hour workdays, six days a week. She divides her time between Joe’s and two additional eateries, which she owns with her husband M e l Oursinsiri: T.H.A.I. in Shirlington and the fast-food concept Tom Yum District in Rosslyn. (Note: Bangkok Joe’s will be closed from April through June for a total decor and menu makeover.)

At home in Springfield, Va., there is always a jar of sriracha at the ready. “We put it on french fries, omelets,” she says, “and it’s excellent on hamburgers.” At the restaurant, she adds fresh fiery flavor to the indulgent lobster rolls as well as to the aioli dip, served with the crisp calamari.

Her sun-ripened pepper condiment is similar but “more mellow and sweeter” than the iconic “Rooster” red sauce, the Vietnamese pho restaurant staple, which has entered the mainstream with appearances on celebrity-chef menus and Walmart shelves. The most popular brand in grocery stores, the one with the rooster logo, is made by Huy Fong Foods, an Irwindale, Calif.-based maker. The company is currently in litigation over alleged health problems believed to have been caused by plant emissions. In November, the Subway chain added a Sriracha Chicken Melt to its Fiery Footlong Collection.

Aulie uses thin and pointed Thai – sometimes labeled “Holland” – red peppers and does not remove the seeds or interior membrane, saying: “You want a hot sauce? Make it hot!” (When working with chili peppers, rubber gloves are indispensable for those sensitive to capsaicin, the active heat compound). For a milder sauce, you can substitute seeded Fresno red peppers.

For an authentic sriracha, trim the fruit’s stem but do not remove the star-shaped green

cap. Says Aulie: “I believe the cap adds an earthy flavor and aromatic.” Just like her grandmother did.★ What’s Cooking, Neighbor? visits with wine, food and entertaining professionals who work in the Georgetown area. Georgetowner dining columnist Walter Nicholls is the food critic for Arlington Magazine and a former staff writer for The Washington Post Food section.

AULIE’S THAI-STYLE SRIRACHA SAUCE Ingredients: Makes 1 1/2 cups 1/2 pound red chili peppers, with the stem trimmed but not removed 1 cup garlic cloves, peeled and chopped 1/4 cup white vinegar 3/4 cup water 1 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup granulated sugar

Directions: In a blender, puree the peppers, garlic and vinegar until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a mesh strainer positioned over a clean bowl. With a spatula, press the puree through the mesh, extracting any solids. Pour the strained liquid into a small saucepan. Add the water, salt and sugar and simmer over low heat for 25 minutes. Store in a jar, refrigerated, for up to one month.

Bangkok Joe’s, 3000 K St., NW, 202-333-4422, bangkokjoes.com

FOOD & WINE

The Latest Dish

BY LIN DA ROT H CONT E

M

atchbox Food Group is on a roll – or a tidal wave, as the case may be. Their classic comfort-food concept, Ted’s Bulletin, kicked off February with an opening in Reston Town Center where Uno’s used to be. Matchbox Food Group veteran Jacob Hunter is their opening executive chef. Kelsey Pitta has moved up to pastry chef, handling the new location as well as the Ted’s Bulletin locations on Capitol Hill and 14th Street.

Chef and Manager Updates: Josh Fatemi has been named bar manager for the new cocktail program on the first floor of Roofers Union in Adams Morgan. Previously, he was at Pearl Dive Oyster Palace and Black Jack and Bourbon. . .Vanessa Ochotorena has been

named pastry chef for Roofers Union as well as its big sister, Ripple. She trained at Ripple under Alison Reed and Marjorie Meek-Bradley.

Giovanni Carlo, former chef of Panache in Tysons Corner, is now the chef at Ovvio in Merrifield, Va. He had worked under Roberto Donna at Galileo. . .Bluejacket Brewery has a new beer brewer, Owen Miller, who joins beer director Greg Engert as well as Bobby Bump and Josh Chapman on the Bluejacket brewing team.

Upcoming Openings: A new Cafe Deluxe

is slated to open in early May in D.C.’s West End in the Hilton Garden Inn currently under construction. This will be the fifth Cafe Deluxe.

Other locations include Cleveland Park, Tysons Corner, Bethesda and Gaithersburg...Bryan Voltaggio is planning to open Lunchbox at the Chevy Chase Pavilion in late summer, bringing yet another of his concepts to the D.C. market His Range eatery is already at that property.

Heavy Seas Alehouse in Rosslyn plans to open by the end of February. . .A new restaurant and

club called Mpire Club is slated to open near Dupont Circle by the end of the first quarter of 2014.

Helen Wasserman of Helen’s Catering plans to take over the Rockville location where Addie’s used to be. With her headwaiter, Kevin Bullock, she will open Crave by Helen, featuring an “East meets West” menu. Helen owned and operated Helen’s on D.C.’s 18th St., NW, in the mid-1980s. The caterer envisions nights devoted to Asian cooking, dishes from El Salvador and meals prepared for take-out. The plan is to extend the front of Addie’s, adding a catering kitchen (as her site in D.C. will close) and a smoker. A spring 2014 opening is planned.

By popular (healthy food) demand, Eamonn’s A Dublin Chipper in Arlington will be morphing into Society Fair, their market, butchery and bakery by the end of the month.

Todd Thrasher, Cathal Armstrong and their partners plan to expand the concept beyond Old Town Alexandria and Arlington.

Just Opened: Rí Rá in Georgetown just opened on M Street where Mie N Yu used to be.

The Irish pub got a head start on St. Patrick’s Day. . .Miami-based Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab just opened in downtown D.C. at 15th and H Sts., NW... .Au Bon Pain opened a new café in D.C. at 801 17th St., NW (in Lafayette Tower at the corner of 17th and

H Streets). It is the 21st Au Bon Pain café to open in the metro area. . .Smashburger recently opened in Tysons Corner and in Gainesville, Va. . .Johnny Rockets’ newest restaurant opened at Tanger Outlets at National Harbour.

Linda Roth is president of Linda Roth Associates, a public relations and marketing firm that specializes in the hospitality industry.

Reach her at Linda@LindaRothPR.com or 703417-2700. www.lindarothpr.com

Your Most Burning Wine Question Answered

BY SH A RI S HEF F IE L D

I

am often asked to conduct tastings or classes for people who want to learn more about wine –or at least gain a greater appreciation for it. And I often get some really great questions, things that people have wanted to know for years but have been afraid to ask. So, to help demystify wine, I’m going to answer some of the most frequently asked questions here...

Are ratings or wine scores a good guide to whether a wine will be good?

Think of wine ratings or scores like movie ratings. Sometimes they can be really subjective and inaccurate and sometimes they are spoton. Absent any other information, they might be helpful to you when choosing between two similar wines on the shelf in the wine shop, but I like to say: form your own opinion and drink what you like.

Do I need a different glass for each type of wine?

No. Although you can invest in every type of wine glass from Riesling to Bordeaux, it’s not necessary when you are starting out. A basic white wine glass or an all-purpose wine glass is fine to begin with. Let your collection of glasses grow with your tastes and knowledge. The more advanced wine taster will notice how the shape of the glass improves the enjoyment of the wine, but if you are a novice, don’t stress yourself out

trying to complete your set.

Can I leave my red wine at room temperature?

Actually, no. Red wines will benefit from a slight cooling-off.

Room temperature here in the U.S. is typically too warm to really enjoy reds as they were intended. At home, pop your reds into the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Are screw caps OK?

Yes, in fact some winemakers think the metal screw cap is the ideal closure, ensuring that the wine gets to the consumer in the best condition. It is commonly thought that screw caps are good closures for everyday drinking wines, i.e., about 98 percent of the wine sold – what you will commonly find in the local wine shop and grocery store. But some believe that long, natural corks are the best closure for wine made to age. The natural cork allows the impartation of a certain amount of air into the wine. This is part of the aging process that gives aged wine its character.

What’s the best way to start learning about wine?

I alw ay s recommend that students taste different wines at every opportunity. It’s easy to find a wine you like and stick to that. However, you will never expand your knowledge and train your palate to detect different flavors that way.

When you go to a restaurant, order a different glass of something or ask if you can taste several wines before settling on one.

Does a high price guarantee that I’ll like the wine?

No, a high retail price might be an indicator of quality or of the popularity of a wine. It has no bearing on whether you will like it. Don’t discount reasonably priced wines. There are some great buys out there.

How do I get wine stains off clothes?

Try pouring a small

amount of rubbing alcohol on the stain, with a white cloth underneath to absorb the stain. If the stain remains, try mixing hydrogen peroxide and Dawn dish liquid into a solution and spotcleaning with this.

What are wine clubs and should I join one?

Generally, there are two types of wine clubs.

The first type is run by individual wineries.

It allows their customers to buy directly from them through the mail, thus cutting out the middlemen. If you like a particular wine or winery, this is a good option for you. You sign up for their mailing list of releases and, as a club member, you usually get first dibs on purchasing the upcoming vintages. The other type of club is run by a wine merchant or a retailer. You pay a fee to have their selection of wines sent to you monthly or quarterly. This type of club is good for beginning wine drinkers who want to get broad exposure to wines and don’t know what they like yet.

I hope this clears up some of the questions you, too, might have had about wine, and gets you ready to embark on your next great wine experience. Cheers!

If you have more questions, follow me on Twitter: @sharisheffield

GMG, INC. February 26, 2014

27

Your Dining Guide to Washington DC’s Finest Restaurants

1789 RESTAURANT

1226 36th St. NW With the ambiance of an elegant country inn, 1789 features classically based American cuisine – the finest regional game, fish and produce available.

Open seven nights a week.

Jackets suggested.

Complimentary valet parking. www.1789restaurant.com

BANGKOK JOE’S

3000 K St. NW (One block from Georgetown AMC Loews Georgetown 14) Georgetown introduces Washington’s first “Dumpling Bar” featuring more than 12 varieties.

Come and enjoy the new exotic Thai cuisine inspired by French cooking techniques. Bangkok Joe’s is upscale, colorful and refined. Absolutely the perfect place for lunch or dinner or just a private gathering.

CHADWICKS

CAFE BONAPARTE

1736 Wisconsin Ave. NW Come and see for yourself why Bistrot Lepic, with its classical, regional and contemporary cuisine, has been voted best bistro in D.C. by the Zagat Guide.

And now with its Wine bar, you can enjoy “appeteasers”, full bar service, complimentary wine tasting every Tuesday and a new Private Room. The regular menu is always available. Open everyday. Lunch & Dinner. Now Serving Brunch Saturday and Sunday 11-3pm Reservations suggested. www.bistrotlepic.com

(202) 333-4422

(202) 338-3830

(202) 333-0111

(202) 333-8830

CIRCLE BISTRO

CLYDE’S OF GEORGETOWN

DAILY GRILL

FILOMENA RISTORANTE

3205 K St. NW A Georgetown tradition for over 40 years, this friendly neighborhood restaurant/saloon features fresh seafood, burgers, award-winning ribs and specialty salads & sandwiches.

Daily lunch & dinner specials.

Late night dining (until midnight Sun.-Thu., 1am Fri.-Sat.) Champagne brunch served Sat. & Sun. until 4pm Open Mon.-Thu. 11:30am - 2am Fri.Sat. 11:30am - 3am. Sun 11am.2am. Kids’ Menu Available.

Overlooking the new Georgetown Waterfront Park ChadwicksRestaurants.com

One Washington Circle. NW Washington, DC 22037 Circle Bistro presents artful favorites that reflect our adventurous and sophisticated kitchen.

(202) 333-2565

(202) 293-5390

(202) 333-9180

MALMAISON

PHO VIET & GRILL

SEA CATCH

Featuring Happy Hour weekdays from 5pm-7pm, live music every Saturday from 8pm-12 midnight, and an a la carte Sunday Brunch from 11:30am-2:30pm.

3236 M St. NW This animated tavern, in the heart of Georgetown, popularized saloon food and practically invented Sunday brunch.

Clyde’s is the People’s Choice for bacon cheeseburgers, steaks, fresh seafood, grilled chicken salads, fresh pastas and desserts. www.clydes.com

Open dailyfor breakfast, lunch and dinner.

1310 Wisconsin Ave. NW Reminiscent of the classic American Grills, Daily Grill is best known for its large portions of fresh seasonal fare including Steaks & Chops, Cobb Salad, Meatloaf and Warm Berry Cobbler.

Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.Visit our other locations at 18th & M Sts NW and Tysons Corner. www.dailygrill.com

www.circlebistro.com

3401 K St. NW Malmaison opened in June 2013 and features elegant French dining in Washington D.C’s historic Georgetown waterfront. Housed in a majestically refurbished industrial warehouse reminiscent of NYC’s Meatpacking district, the modern restaurant, pastry shop, and event lounge features the culinary talents of legendary 2 Michelin Starred French Chef Gerard Pangaud and Pastry Chef Serge Torres (Le Cirque NYC). . www.malmaisondc.com

1639 Wisconsin Ave. NW Established in 2013 Opened in August 2013, Pho Viet and Grille is a family owned Vietnamese style restaurant who caters primarily to Georgetown residents, students, and local business owners. Our family has over 20 years of restaurant ownership experience. Our goal is to bring homemade traditional Vietnamese dishes to Georgetown.

We strive to offer Georgetown the best quality Vietnamese and authenticity with a relaxed atmosphere and ambiance. Come visit us once and you’ll be ours forever! www.PhoVietGrilleDC.com

(202) 817-3340

(202) 333-0009

28 February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

BISTROT LEPIC & WINE BAR

3124-28 M St. NW A friendly French Bistro in the heart of historic Georgetown since 1975. Executive chef and owner Gerard Cabrol came to Washington, D.C. 32 years ago, bringing with him home recipes from southwestern France. Our specialties include our famous Poulet Bistro (tarragon rotisserie chicken), Minute steak Maitre d’Hotel (steak and pomme frit¬es), Steak Tartare, freshly pre¬pared seafood, veal, lamb and duck dishes and the best Eggs Benedict in town. In addition to varying daily specials. www.bistrofrancaisdc.com

www.bangkokjoes.com

(202) 965-1789

BISTRO FRANCAIS

1054 31st St. NW Lovers of history and seafood can always find something to tempt their palette.

Overlooking the historic C&O canal, we offer fresh seafood simply prepared in a casual relaxed atmosphere.

Join us for happy hour Monday – Friday from 5:00pm-7:00pm featuring $1.00 oysters and half priced drinks.

Lunch Mon-Sat 11:00am-3:00pm Dinner Mon-Sat 5:00pm-10:00pm Complimentary Parking www.seacatchrestaurant.com (202) 337-8855

1522 Wisconsin Ave. NW Captivating customers since 2003, Cafe Bonaparte has been dubbed the “quintessential” European café featuring award winning crepes & arguably the “best” coffee in D.C.! Other cant miss attractions are the famous weekend brunch every Sat. and Sun. until 3 p.m. and our late night weekend hours serving sweet and savory crepes until 1 a.m. We look forward to calling you a “regular” soon! www.cafebonaparte.com

1063 Wisconsin Ave., NW Filomena is a Georgetown landmark that has endured the test of time and is now celebrating 30 years. Our old-world cooking styles & recipes brought to America by the early Italian immigrants, alongside the culinary cutting edge creations of Italy’s foods of today, executed by our award winning Italian Chef. Try our spectacular Lunch buffet on Fri. & Saturdays or our Sunday Brunch, Open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner. www.filomena.com

(202) 337-4900

(202) 338-8800

SEQUOIA

THE OCEANAIRE

3000 K St. NW, Suite 100 Washington, DC 20007 Eclectic American cuisine, Coupled with enchanting views of the Potomac River make Sequoia a one of a kind dining experience.

Offering a dynamic atmosphere featuring a mesquite wood fire grill, sensational drinks, and renowned River Bar. No matter the occasion, Sequoia will provide an unforgettable dining experience. www.arkrestaurants.com /sequoia_dc.html

1201 F St. NW Ranked one of the most popular seafood restaurants in D.C., “this cosmopolitan” send-up of a vintage supper club that’s styled after a ‘40’s-era ocean liner is appointed with cherry wood and red leather booths, infused with a “clubby, old money” atmosphere. The menu showcases “intelligently” prepared fish dishes that “recall an earlier time of elegant” dining. What’s more, “nothing” is snobbish here.

Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30am-5pm.

Dinner: Mon-Thur 5-10pm, Fri & Sat 5-11pm, Sun 5-9pm. www.theoceanaire.com

(202) 944-4200

(202) 347-2277

SOCIAL SCENE

James Beard Foundation Honored

BY M ARY B IRD The James Beard Foundation (JBF) was recognized by the Destination & Travel Foundation with the 2014 Spirit of Hospitality Award at a gala dinner held at the Convention Center on Feb. 11. JBF President Susan Ungaro accepted the award presented annually to individuals and organizations that show exceptional commitment to the travel and tourism industry. Former Chief of Protocol Capricia Marshall called the JBF “an invaluable partner to the U.S. Department of State/Office of Protocol as it launched its global Diplomatic Culinary Partnership in 2012” recognizing the power of dining and culinary arts as an important tool of diplomacy.

Celebrating Norah’s Big 4-O Some cool gals got together Feb. 15 to celebrate the 40th birthday of Norah O’Donnell, co-anchor of “CBS This Morning,” and wife of D.C. chef and restaurateur Geoff Tracy.

THE

Gala

GUIDE MARCH 4: 27th Annual NCLR Capital Awards

The National Council of La Raza Capital Awards has been the only Hispanic event that recognizes elected officials from both sides of the aisle for their outstanding support of public policies that are vital to Hispanic Americans. National Building Museum; 202-785-1670; NCLR.org.

MARCH 7: Prevent Cancer Foundation Gala Roger Dow, President and CEO, US Travel Association; Greg O’Dell, President and CEO, Events DC

Jamie Dorros, Elizabeth Thorp, Norah O’Donnell, Eun Yang, Stacy Kerr and Jennifer Tapper. Photo by Tony Powell.

The Prevent Cancer Foundation Annual Spring Gala brings together the business, diplomatic, government, medical, sports, media and social communities to raise funds for the foundation’s mission of saving lives through cancer prevention and early detection.

National Building Museum; 703-519-2103; PreventCancer.org.

MARCH 12: Duke Ellington’s Series of Legends Benefit

Chefs who created the dinner: John Fleer, Asheville, NC’s Victoria Isley, Executive Director, Destination and Travel Rhubarb Restaurant: Keegan Gerhard, Denver, CO’s D-Bar; Foundation Tory McPhail, New Orleans’ Commander’s

Susanna Quinn, Jocelyn Quinn and Debbie Dingell.

Photo by Tony Powell.

State of Kuwait National Day

BY MARY B IRD Ambassador and Mrs. Salem Al-Sabah welcomed their guests to the 53rd Anniversary of the National Day of the State of Kuwait at the Four Seasons Hotel on Feb. 20. Exquisite floral arrangements adorned the ballroom where food stations offered an international display of temptations. Buffet tables were laden with the very best of the Middle East, Asia, Italy and the U.S., featuring mini lobster rolls, crab cakes and so much more. The dessert treats would take a season of MasterChef programs to reproduce.

Sting will headline the seventh annual Performance Series of Legends benefit concert, joined by special guest Paul Simon and a surprise performer.

The concert series is the primary fundraiser for Duke Ellington School of the Arts.

Music Center at Strathmore; 202-333-2555; EllingtonSchool.org/events.

MARCH 13: Latino Student Fund Celebrates 20 Years The LSF Fourth Annual Gala is a celebration, music, cocktails and food from around the Latin world and will feature Panama. Guests include corporate, political, diplomatic and community leaders. Organization of American States; 202-344-3438; LatinoStudentFund.org.

MARCH 13: The American Ireland Fund’s 22nd National Gala

Jerry and Sheila Katz

Matt Hastings, Nazan Kirdar

Dr. George and Rima Bitar

In time for St. Patrick’s Day, the American Ireland Fund will honor Vice President Joe Biden with the Peace Award. Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center;301-229-0064; TheIrelandsFund.org.

GMG, INC. February 26, 2014

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SOCIAL SCENE

Cynthia Howar Art Reception

BY M ARY B IRD On, Feb. 12, the eve of yet another storm that closed the Federal Government the following day, Cynthia Howar hosted an enthusiastic gathering at her home studio for a wine and cheese reception to celebrate her new works of art “Paintings from the Brandywine Valley, Cuba, and Provence (2013).�

The artist sells her works and notecards of her paintings from her studio and online. She was recently included in the Citizens Association of Georgetown Art Show at the House of Sweden.

Alexandra and Cynthia Howar

Marine McHenry and Ralph Ichter

Mary Byrnes, Erica Moorhead

Cynthia Howar and CAG Executive Director Betsy Cooley

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.

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February 26, 2014 GMG, INC.