The Georgetowner December 16, 2010 Issue by The Georgetowner

Since 1954

THE

georgetowner.com

GEORGETOWNER Talking It's a Wonderful Life Jaylee Mead

Volume 57, Number 7

december 14 2010 - January 11 2011

South Pacific Performance

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fashion

The Player

TheTruth Behind Tax Breaks

Business

AWinter's

Nightwith Ris Food & Wine

Wesley Heights

Georgetown

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Michael Rankin 202.271.3344 Michelle Galler 703.217.9405

Maggie Shannon 202.486.4752 Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

Completely renovated, expanded Tudor mansion with main house & 2 BR, 3 bath guest house with 12,500 +/- interior sf. 1/2 acre +. 7 BR, 7.5 baths, expansive kitchen, huge atrium-like family room, FDR, incredible library, MBR suite w/2 fully separate baths, dressing rooms & closets. Home theater, home gym, full staff quarters. Large deck, pool, 2 att gars for 3 cars & exterior parking for at least 9 more cars. $8,995,000.

Sensational 4,162+ condo with 2,700 sf of outdoor terraces with views of Potomac River, Kennedy Center & Gtown Waterfront. Open floor plan, walls of glass and floor-to-ceiling windows. Custom Poliform built-ins throughout, chef ’s kitchen with top appliances. 3-car parking and additional storage. Building offers 24 hr security, concierge services & fitness center. $3,550,000.

Circa 1900 semi-detached brick townhouse across from Tudor Place. Renovated 4 BR,3.5 bath offers wood floors, chef ’s kitchen w/ tablespace, large formal dining rm, step down living rm with fplc and French doors that open to garden. Master suite w/ luxury limestone bath. South facing garden with mature plantings, slate and brick terraces and water feature. 2 car prkg. $2,495,000.

Foggy Bottom

Spectacular hi-end renovated/redesign of corner apt by renowned builder. Fantastic entertaining space offers open LR with fplc, DR, custom open kitchen with family and breakfast area. Spectacular 270-degree wrap-around views include Potomac River, monuments, Memorial/ Key bridges, and Kennedy Center. Outstanding craftsmanship and custom built-ins throughout. New hardwod floors. 2 car parking. $2,395,000.

Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

TTR Sotheby’s is pleased to announce that

Sally McLuckie Wesley Heights

Kalorama

has joined our Chevy Chase, MD office

Located in picturesque Wesley Heights, this 6 BR, 4 and one half bath residence was fully renovated in the summer of 2010 with the finest in modern amenities. Walls of windows and views of Battery Kemble Park create a tranquil setting in this sought-after Northwest neighborhood. $2,175,000.

Sophisticated 2 BR, 2.5 bath Townhouse, “the Jewel of Bancroft Place.” Elegant grand salon, formal dining room, high-end kitchen, gorgeous architectural details throughout, huge private garden and sun deck – an urban oasis! 2-car detached garage. $1,895,000.

Dave DeSantis 202.438.1542

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Georgetown

Penn Quarter

Georgetown

Hugh Oates 202.257.5640 Judy Lewis 202.256.0522

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

Michael Brennan Jr. 202.330.7808

Vintage Victorian in Georgetown’s east village. Beautifully renovated with chef ’s kitchen, full in-law suite & pretty rear garden. Lovely living room with wood burning fplce & separate formal dining rm. MBR with bay seating area. High ceilings and wood flrs throughout. 4 BR, 3.5 baths. Conveniently located near all the chic shops and restaurants of Georgetown. $1,649,000.

Spectacular top/front penthouse unit at the Ventana! 2,373 interior sf, 2 BR, 2.5 bath, three levels, awesome open floor plan with contemporary/modern flair, walls of windows overlooking F Street. Private balcony and private roof deck. One garage parking space included. $1,495,000.

www.ttrsir.com

Stunning end unit townhouse designed for elegant entertaining and causal living. Formal living room with fplc & three sets of French doors leading to a private rear garden/terrace with fountain. Formal DR, renovated Viking, SubZero kitchen, lower level has a custom office, full bath and family room w/ fplc. 3 BR, 3.5 baths. Custom finishes & detail throughout. Private off street parking space. $1,390,000.

Georgetown, Washington, D.C. 202.333.1212

Papermill on the Potomac! The property boasts 1 BR, 1 bath with garage parking in a special building located directly across from the Georgetown Waterfront Park & Potomac River. High ceilings, loft-like feel, fireplace, granite counter-tops, stainless steel appliances, washer/ dryer, walk-in closet and extra storage combine to make this property a wonderful home - Perfect Georgetown waterfront location. $515,000.

McLean, VA 703.319.3344

Chevy Chase, MD 301.967.3344

© MMX Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Les Bords de l’Epte a Giverny, used with permission. Sotheby’s International Realty® is a registered trademark licensed to Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity . Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

2 TTR December 15, 12.10.10.indd 2010 gmg, Georgetowner 1 Inc.

12/13/10 3:10:11 PM

Vol. 57, No. 7

contents

Since 1954

“The Newspaper Whose Influence Far Exceeds Its Size”

4 — Web Exclusives

— Pierre Cardin

5 — Up and Coming

ABOUT THE COVER Publisher Sonya Bernhardt Managing Editor Ari Post

Feature Editor Gary Tischler

Yvonne Taylor, Photographer www.yvonnetaylorphoto.com Lauretta McCoy, Makeup and Styling www.laurettjmccoy.com

Contributors

Ring by Lanvin at Hu’s Wear

Yvonne Taylor Neshan Naltchayan Malek Naz Freidouni

Jody Kurash Linda Roth Conte Mary Bird Stacey Murphy Robert Devaney Renee Garfinkel Dave Nyczepir Darrell Parsons Ris Lacoste

Tom Wolff Jeff Malet Robert Devaney

Advertising Director Charlie Louis Advertising Adra Williams Elle Fergusson Graphic Design Alyssa Loope Jen Merino Counsel Juan Chardiet, Attorney

Published by Georgetown Media Group, Inc. 1054 Potomac St., N.W. Washington, DC 20007 Phone: (202) 338-4833 Fax: (202) 338-3292 editorial@georgetowner.com 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, rewrite, or refuse material and is not responsible for errors or omissions. Copyright, 2009.

10-—Business Will Tax Cuts for Top Tier Create Jobs? 11-—Feature Story The Making of a Museum

statement necklace at Ella Rue fresh water pearl necklace at Hu’s Wear

Photographers

8 — Editorial/Opinion

Silk gown by DSquared2 at Hu’s Wear

Publisher’s Assistant Siobhan Catanzaro

Katherine Tallmadge Jack Evans Bill Starrels Jordan Wright David Post John Blee Margaret Loewith Donna Evers Veena Trehan

6-7 — Georgetown Observer

12 — Real Estate Featured Property Mortgage 13 — Georgetown Real Estate Sales 14-Performance Carmen Cusack Brings It Home In “South Pacific” 15-17 — Cover Story It’s a Wonderful Life: New Year’s Fashion 18 -19 — In Country The Fox’s Den Tavern

SIOBHAN CATANZARO PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT

Siobhan Catanzaro, publisher’s assistant at The Georgetowner, has been an invaluable resource and a source of great joy for all of us here the paper. As she goes to pursue her masters degree, she will be sorely missed by all, but we are excited for what her future has in store. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors. Upon leaving the Georgetowner and the city, Siobhan says: “It has been an amazing learning experience and an absolute pleasure working at The Georgetowner the past two years. This is a truly unique community and I feel lucky to have been a small part of it. Sonya, thank you for this opportunity. I will always look back at my time here with a smile!”

18 -19 —Dining Guide 22-23 — Food & Wine A Winter’s Night with Ris Cocktail of the Week 24 — Gift Guide 25 — Art Wrap ‘Elvis at 21’ at the National Portrait Gallery 26— Classifieds/ Service Directory 27—Body & Soul Succesful Resolutions 28-29—Social Scene Alex Ovechkin Celebrates One Lounge Anniversary Georgetown University Holiday Party Ann Hand Fetes Innocents At Risk Jamaican Women of Washington Foxhall Gallery Showcases 30—The Player Jaylee Mead

SUBSCRIBE ENJOY THE DOWNTOWNER IN YOUR HOME FOR ONLY $36 PER YEAR! The Downtowner brings you the latest news from one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Washington. Now you can subscribe to The Downtowner – 26 issues for $36 per year – sent right to your mailbox. We promise to continue to entertain you with exciting downtown news about society, dining, fashion and more. You won’t want to miss a word. Join our remarkable subscribers, “the most influential audience in the world” and support a unique community newspaper today!

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Come explore sophisticated style at Georgetown Park.

Discover over 80 outstanding stores, right in the heart of Georgetown.

GEORGETOWNER com ARTS & SOCIETY Galleries at a Glance Visit www.georgetowner.com for the full listing.

New Year’s Eve Guide

Chris Murray on Elvis

The Georgetowner’s top picks for New Year’s dining destinations this year.

Chris Murray of the Govinda Gallery, and co-curator of the ‘Elvis at 21’ exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, talks about the King’s legacy and all other things Elvis.

Georgetown Jingle

Keith Lipert Celebrates

“Designed to Fight Childhood Cancer,” the 5th Annual Georgetown Jingle at the Four Seasons Hotel on Dec. 12 was happiness from every perspective.

Taste setter Keith Lipert invited friends to his eponymous gallery on M Street for holiday cheer on Dec. 8.

M Street & Wisconsin Ave. 202-342-8190

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COMING

December 15-January 16 “South Pacific” There’s a battle on two fronts in South Pacific. Whether it’s World War II raging just over the breakers or the war for hearts beating on shore, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical is explosive in every scene and song. Based on James Michener’s Pulitzer Prize–winning novel, “South Pacific” is a window into the excitement and hardships of the 1940s, when happiness was threatened by prejudice as much as the realities of conflict. Directed by 2008 Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, this classic is reinvented by Lincoln Center Theater to be a musical that retains all the fun and weight of the original. For more information or to purchase tickets visit www.kennedy-center.org. December 18 Carols by Candlelight Like the angel who heralded glad tidings to the shepherds, meet during this holy season to sing the joy of Jesus’ birth at 6 p.m. In a very real sense it is also our own birth which we celebrate at Christmas—a spiritual birth of the Divine Presence made new in our lives. Join us for this sacred worship service in anticipation of Christ’s coming. Bible readings are interspersed with Christmas music, candle-lighting, and prayers in this holy service inviting the peace of the season. For more information visit, www. nationalcathedral.org. December 24 Christmas Music: The Treasured Holiday Tradition Choral Arts presents its annual concert of Christmas music at The Kennedy Center, fea-

turing holiday standards, favorite sing-alongs and elegant Belgian carols. Choral Arts is joined by special guests Stephen Cramer, tenor, and the American Youth Philharmonic Orchestra. The audience is invited to sing along with the most popular carols, which will be marked in the program. Tickets cost $15-$65. For more information visit, www.kennedy-center.org.

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December 26 “From Bach to Bop” Concert An exceptional line-up of both classical and jazz musicians will highlight a free concert at 4 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, for the Attrus C. Fleming Music Scholarship Fund, “From Bach to Bop.” Another highlight of the “Musical Extravaganza” will be both classical and jazz piano performances by the 2009-2010 scholarship winner, Clifton Williams, a 2010 graduate of Duke Ellington School of the Arts. This event is free.

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Observer

National Portrait Gallery Commissioner Resigns

C&O Canal News

ational Portrait Gallery Commissioner James T. Bartlett resigned Thursday, December 9, in protest of the museum’s censorship of a 30-minute video, “A Fire in My Belly,” by David Wajnarowicz. The piece was initially a part of the gallery’s “Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire in American Portraiture” exhibit, but was removed when conservative groups began protesting a brief segment of the film, in which ants are seen crawling over an image of Jesus. Since the video was taken out of the exhibit, Transformer Gallery installed a four-minute clip from it in their storefront and arranged for a silent march to the National Portrait Gallery December 2. Complicating matters further, local artists Matt Blasenstein and Michael Dax Iacovone were detained at the National Portrait Gallery this weekend, after screening the video on an iPad in front of the exhibit entrance. Currently, the two are attempting to procure a permit that will enable them to play the video through February, in a temporary structure directly outside the gallery. The National Portrait Gallery’s commission functions as a board of directors, making Bartlett’s resignation the most consequential protest of the gallery’s decision to date.

n appreciation of his service as the C&O Canal Trust’s first Chairman of the Board of Directors, Roy Sewall was presented with a replica of the iconic National Park Service “flat hat.” Sewall, who recently completed his second term as chairman, is resigning, being replaced by David Cushwa of Hagerstown. Sewall helped guide the Trust through its early formative years. Sewall helped guide the Trust through its early formative years. Says Matthew Logan, President of the Trust, “Roy provided a steady hand and a clear understanding of what it takes to build an organization that will be of service to the park for years to come. His contributions to our success have been immense.” Sewall remains on the Board of Directors and can be regularly found on the towpath with his ever-present camera. It is also of note that the C&O Canal Trust is worth considering for any year-end donations, which goes to fund programs such as Canal Quarters and C&O Canal Pride Days. With growing calls to reduce the national debt, the C&O Canal National Historical Park is in particular need of the support of those who use the park. One can also become a Friend of the Canal by volunteering time and donating services to the canal. To make a tax-deductible donation or find out about volunteer and other opportunities, go to www.CanalTrust.org.

Metro Assault Leaves Passengers Questioning Protocol

BD has reported that, on the night of Tuesday, December 7, an elderly man was assaulted by a group of rowdy teenagers on the metro. As the Red Line train came to a halt at the Union Station stop, one of the teens turned and threw a gallon jug of Arizona Iced Tea, from which he’d been sipping, into the older gentleman’s face. While the kids exited the train celebrating, onlookers attempted to help the victim, who was covered in tea and bleeding from his nose.

However, matters only became worse as the man’s fellow passengers attempted to use the train’s emergency call box to report the assault. Convinced that the passengers were pressing the button unnecessarily, the train operator warned them to quit fooling around. At the next stop, an employee the passengers managed to flag down claimed there was nothing he could do. Only at the next station did the metro employees appear sympathetic, admitting that the train operator had handled the situation poorly. According to an eyewitness report, Metro Transit Police officers were able to tend to the victim at the Takoma Park stop, the train itself not allowed to stop for any reason. Proper protocol dictates that train operators report the incident and await further instructions from MTP. Only, in this case, passengers were doubtful the train operator had followed procedure. Lending credence to this claim — a metro spokesman had no knowledge of the incident. Metro Announces Holiday Schedules

The ANC 2E has released the announcement of Metro’s holiday schedules.

etrorail will stay open from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Christmas Eve (Friday, Dec. 24), Christmas Day (Saturday, Dec. 25), New Year’s Eve (Friday, Dec. 31), and New Year’s Day (Saturday, Jan. 1) with a Sunday schedule slated each day. Metrobus will operate on a Sunday schedule from Dec. 24 to 26, and Dec. 31 to Jan. 2, 2011, and a modified weekday schedule from Dec. 27 to 30. MetroAccess will cancel all subscription trips on Dec. 24, 25, 31 and Jan. 1. All trips during that timeframe must be reserved separately. Christmas Day ridership in the rail system historically has been extremely light. Last year about 64,000 people rode the Metrorail system, compared to an average Saturday weekday ridership of 350,000. New Year’s Day ridership is likewise traditionally light. Last year only about 167,000 people rode the Metrorail system on Jan. 1.

Vince Gray Attends “One City” Mayor-elect Vince Gray attended Washington National Cathedral’s Sunday Forum on December 12. The forum took place at 10:10 a.m. in the Cathedral nave. Lasting approximately 50 minutes, the forum featured an interview with Cathedral Dean Samuel T. Lloyd III and was followed by a Q&A for those in attendance, as well as an online audience. Lloyd and Gray tackled the topic of uniting D.C., in light of Gray’s recent electoral victory. Washington National Cathedral’s Sunday

Forum series explores the convergence of faith and public life and, this year in particular, has placed emphasis on civility in the realm of public discourse. December 12’s forum, “One City,” was free and open to the public. A webcast is available at www.nationalcathedral.org.

CAG Implements new Public Safety Initiative The Citizens Association of Georgetown has implemented a new Public Safety Initiative that aims to greatly improve the security of the neighborhood. The initiative includes: extra police officers to patrol residential streets on the weekends (called a “reimbursable detail because we pay the police department for these officers); patrol cars with the CAG logo and flashing lights for the CAG private guards; special GPS-equipped telephones to enable better communication between the guards and the police and better tracking of guard performance; a reinvigorated block captain program; and strong advocacy with the Metropolitan Police Department and elected officials that resulted in more police resources earmarked for Georgetown. CAG is urging the neighborhood to join other residents in supporting the initiative by making donations. All donors will receive a CAG Public Safety window sticker and special information about the program, including the guards’ cell phone numbers. Go to www.CAGtown.org for more information or to donate.

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Editorial

Opinion

Eugene Quinn, 1940-2010

ugene Quinn, 70, a longtime Georgetown resident, died suddenly Friday, December 3, 2010 at the George Washington University Hospital in Washington, DC. He was the loving husband of Marguerite Slocum Quinn, to whom he was married 23 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Tara, and her husband, Andrew Reilly, of Middletown, RI, his grandchildren, Andrew and Fiona, his brothers, Paul of McLean, VA, Thomas of Washington, DC, and Francis of New York City and their families. He is also survived by his step-children John Trevor, Phyllis Higgerson, Evelyn Holm, Sophia Girard, and Irene Brooke, their spouses and 13 step-grandchildren. They, along with seven nieces and nephews, several cousins and countless friends join in mourning his untimely passing. Joseph Eugene Quinn was born in Pawtucket, RI on March 1, 1940, the third of four sons. He had been living in Falls Church the last few years to be closer to his family, but Quinn was a Georgetown local, having lived here from 1984 through the next twenty-five years. Since the early 1980s, Quinn held a series of increasingly important positions with the federal government, initially with

the Reagan Administration. “He was the ultimate compassionate conservative,” said his brother Tom Quinn, himself a Georgetown resident and community notable. “He was a man of great principal and a true believer in conservative causes, but a very gentle and kindly fellow.” He worked for the 1984 reelection of Ronald Reagan and delighted in telling friends that he worked in the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington. A veteran of the United States Army Gene travelled extensively and had an uncommon ability to befriend a wide spectrum of people and delighted in sharing with them his views on religion, politics and sports. “He was really one of the most delightful people one would meet,” said Tom. “He was low key by nature and a wonderful guy to speak with.” While in Georgetown, Quinn lived by the Cloisters and was active in the Citizens Association of Georgetown. “He loved jogging on the waterfront, and he would go to the Yates field house all the time,” said Tom. He was a regular at Café Milano and 1789 Restaurant and a patron of Nathan’s from the day he came to town. Quinn was also an avid reader of the Georgetowner, according to his brother. “He always commented on it.” Along with his wife Margy, Quinn was a found-

Report

ing member of the Anacostia Gracious Arts Program, an urban after school arts program for underprivileged youth in Washington. Although Quinn lived in the Washington area for three decades, he considered Rhode Island his home and enjoyed spending summers there. He and Tom both own summer homes in Newport, where the funerary services were held Saturday, December 11. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the Georgetown community at large. We wish his family all our best wishes and deepest apologies for the loss of this wonderful man.

On Those We’ve Lost This Year By Gary Tischler

hen famous people—or infamous, or near-famous, or almost forgotten-people die, they make you remember. You remember headlines, movies, songs you danced to, games you watched. They remind you of the life you’ve lived. If you’re fortunate enough to work in the media, it gets more personal than that: you remember meetings across a table, in a hotel room, voices over the phone. Just by way of example, I had the chance to talk with the lovely British actress Jean Simmons, small, dark-haired and demure, in San Francisco when she appeared in a road company of “A Little Night Music” decades ago. She was diminutive, still lovely, with a classic British accent that made you almost feel compelled to kiss her hand, which she had offered. You shook it lightly instead. Simmons, a quite gifted actress, (see “Elmer Gantry”) was known for her heroine roles in blockbusters like “The Egyptians” and “The Robe,” and as the woman loved by “Spartacus.” Those things you remember too. We remember in Georgetown, like a hundred other reporters, staking out the home of John and Elizabeth Edwards after he was picked to be Senator John Kerry’s running mate—a fleeing glimpse, children in tow, heading toward a black limousine down a cobbled street. So it goes. (Kurt Vonnegut’s line always sits well on the obituary, and it worked for him two years ago or so.) In Washington, the whole community and the mourned the death of Dr. Dorothy Height, at the grand fine age of 98. Height, the president of the National Society of Negro Women, was a front-line civil rights activist in the years of strife and turmoil in the South, right alongside Dr. Martin Luther King and the other legends and stalwarts. She was the

8 December 15, 2010 gmg, Inc.

founder of the Black Family Reunion, a celebration of family held every year on the National Mall and throughout the country. She wore wonderful hats. Her passing and funerals, including a grand funeral at National Cathedral, drew regular folks from the city, as well as presidents, including Clinton and Obama, amid a sea of black women’s churchgoing hats. Here is a brief look at other notables lost to us and the world in 2010. Alexander Haig — Former presidential candidate, National Security Adviser under Ronald Reagan, famous for his “I’m in charge” (not) quote in the aftermath of the assassination attempt on the president. Dennis Hopper — The classic Hollywood outsider who became a movie star in spite of himself— “Easy Rider,” “Blue Velvet,” a boy in “Giant,” wonderfully crazy and weird. Senator Robert Byrd — The classic Southern Democratic giant of the Senate from West Virginia and a great fiddler, to boot. J.D. Salinger — The hermetic author wrote “The Catcher in the Rye,” the classic slim novel of disaffected American youth, still catching. Mitch Miller — Following the bouncing ball and sing along from your living room. Don Meredith — The first Dallas Cowboy, a twangy charmer and foil for and to Howard Cossell on Monday Night Football. Fess Parker — Davy, Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone too, and a tycoon in the end. Kathryn Grayon — Beautiful soprano who graced MGM workings of “Kiss Me Kate” and “Showboat.” Leslie Nielsen — The joys of a doofus screen star, proving that comedy really is harder than tragedy in “The Naked Gun” and “Airplane” (Which also

Jack Evans

featured Peter Graves who passed also passed away). Dixie Carter — Designing woman star, she showed her stage mettle at the Washington Shakespeare Company in Oscar Wilde plays. Kevin McCarthy — Forever running in “Invasion of the Bodysnatchers.” Harvey Pekar — the working class stiff who redefined comic books and autobiography as he documented his commonplace life throughout his ongoing comic series “American Splendor.” Art Linkletter — He asked the questions when Kids Said the Darndest Things. Tony Curtis—Aka Bernie Schwartz, the kid from Brooklyn who became a huge matinee idol, movie star, Janet Leigh’s husband, terrific actor. Eddie Fisher — Before there was Angelina and Brad three was Liz and Eddie, and “Oh My Papa” and Debby Reynolds and all that jazz. Ted Sorenson—One of the last of the Camelot knights, he was JFK’s speechwriter, noted author of “Kennedy” and “Ask not.” Howard Zinn — He wrote history from the people’s standpoint—meaning native Americans, workers, the under-reported of American history. John Wooden — Maybe the greatest college basketball coach ever—the UCLA Bruins’ streak of 85 straight wins still stands, as of this writing, until the Connecticut Women’s Basketball team breaks it soon. Jinny Dean — Country songs and sausages. Joan Sutherland—The opera diva owned the mad scene from “Lucia Di Lammermoor” George Steinbrenner—he made the Yankees his own, in more ways than one. Ellie — The world’s ugliest dog dies at 17.

he Council reconsidered the FY 2011 budget this past week to address the $175 million revenue shortfall and “spending pressures,” which came to light earlier this fall, and approved a revised plan 11-2. It was a process filled with difficult choices, made somewhat more difficult by the very short time frame in which we had to act; the Mayor had only transmitted his plan to us just before Thanksgiving. As such, it was always my thought that we probably could not do much more than rearrange some of those priorities and then move forward, which is precisely what ended up happening. The Council did not adopt any new taxes at this time (in keeping with the Mayor’s proposal), however I believe this and many other issues will be on the table this spring, when the new Mayor, Vincent Gray, submits his FY 2012 budget plan to the Council. Fiscal Year 2012 will be the far bigger challenge, and Mayor-Elect Gray has stated quite clearly he would like to take some time to thoroughly scrub all agency spending to find efficiencies, re-think priorities, and find cuts prior to considering tax increases. I believe this thorough approach is necessary as well; we cannot and should not casually raise taxes without taking a fine toothed comb to government spending and programs. So, further challenges are ahead this spring. Prior to that, the Council will hold its annual oversight hearings in February and March; it will be vital for each Committee to scrutinize every line of every agency budget in great detail. Turning to happier thoughts – Happy Holidays to you and yours! This is always a wonderful time to spend with friends and family and be thankful for all the blessings we enjoy. Worth noting every year – be careful not to leave your shopping bags or anything of value visible in your car. Also, with the rash of street robberies we’ve seen in the city, with people getting their iPhones and other tech devices snatched right out of their hands, always be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. You can catch up on your emails later; it’s much more important that you get to your destination safe and sound. This is our last newsletter for the year. Happy New Year, and we will see you again in January!

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y company is a small business. I think. We have approximately 25 employees. Even in our hometown Salisbury, North Carolina most people have never heard of us. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure what the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;smallâ&#x20AC;? means, but compared to most companies in the US, we may be considered big. The IRS reports that approximately 6 million corporations, 3 million partnerships, and over 20 million proprietorships file tax returns. Corporations make the most money, have the best stats, and hire the most people. Of the 6 million corporations, only 160,000, or 7%, have more assets than we have, and only 35,000, or 1.5%, have more sales than we do. Are we a small business? I certainly think so. Our employees think so. I wake up every day wondering if CVS or Walgreens or Walmart or all those other huge pharmacies are going to squash us. So, I feel pretty much in the middle of this tax debate that is using small businesses as the bait for two hot tax issues. First, should taxes go up by 3% for people making over $250,000? Second, should employers have a payroll tax holiday if they hire new employees? Clearly, those tax breaks would increase my profits a little, but would they encourage me to invest and hire more employees? Absolutely not. Will it affect the 2012 election? Probably. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Small businesses are the engine of job growth,â&#x20AC;? weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re told. Talking heads say that there are 700,000 small businesses earning over $250,000. On average, every county in the country has 200 small businesses earning that amount. In Virginia, Maryland, and DC, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reasonable, but drive 75 miles in any direction to an â&#x20AC;&#x153;averageâ&#x20AC;? county. Butch Cassidy was equally perplexed: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Who are those guys?â&#x20AC;? Most of those 700,000 small businesses earning over $250,000 are doctors and lawyers. Are they the engines for job growth? Perhaps a brief tax history might help. In the early 1970s, Congress passed a 10% income tax surcharge to pay for the Vietnam War. Back then, both political parties were fiscally responsible, cooperative, and voted for that tax. It was pretty simple: compute your tax and add 10%. (Did you know that North Carolina has an add-on tax now?) If your tax bill was $1,000 and you had paid in $1,300, you would have gotten a $300 refund. But with 10% added to your tax bill, making it $1,100, your refund was only $200. Over the next 20 years, taxes were cut on the idea that deficits would go down because economic growth would more than offset the revenue loss. Indeed, there was economic growth but deficits went up. President Reagan criticized President Carterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $50 billion deficits, but his budgets (the President, not Congress, makes out the budget) were above $300 billion. In 1988, the first President Bush, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Read my lips. No new taxes,â&#x20AC;? but knowing he had to be fiscally responsible, he raised taxes. In 1993, President Clinton raised tax rates at the top of the income scale about 3%. Over the next eight years, the economy grew like never before, tax receipts increased, and deficits disappeared. Microsoft, Apple, Coke, and many new and old companies grew like weeds despite higher taxes. The stock market tripled. In 2001, the second President Bush passed a 10 year tax cut that is scheduled to expire at the end of this month. Today, compared to 10 years ago, the stock market is the same and unemployment is double.

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Consequently, the United States now faces a huge and growing deficit problem. We spend $3 for every $2 we collect in taxes. There is waste, for sure, but not that much. Those dreaded â&#x20AC;&#x153;earmarksâ&#x20AC;? are less than 1/10 of 1% of the entire budget. Contrary to popular belief, Congress cannot eliminate earmarks to balance the budget. In fact, just walking out of our wars and then eliminating the entire defense department completely wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t balance the budget. Nor would eliminating Social Security completely. This is a really big problem. Like students waiting until the last moment to prepare for exams, Congress has waited until the last moment to deal with the expiring tax cuts. (Frankly, this tax debate should be part of a larger debate about the entire budget.) President Obama is arguing that the Bush tax cuts should be kept for those making under $250,000. That will increase borrowing and the deficit by $2.7 trillion. The Republicans and some Democrats want to extend the tax cuts permanently which will increase borrowing and the deficit $3.7 trillion. So, this argument is about whether to borrow another $2.7 trillion or $3.7 trillion. Eliminating those pesky earmarks saves about $30 billion, or .001% of those amounts. Why borrow these extra trillions? To help small businesses -- like ours -- hire people and grow. If my company earns an extra $10,000, these tax cuts save us $300. If Congress also passes a payroll tax holiday and we hire another employee for, say, $25,000, it will save us another $1,200. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not fond of taxes, but if the government cuts my companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taxes $1,500, is that why my company is going to hire another employee? Not at all. We hire new employees when she or he is going to help our business, not to save $1,500 in tax. Growing a business is about growing a business, not taxes. (Of course, we could move to the Bahamas or Ireland and reduce our taxes, but small businesses canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do that.) No business decides to grow or not grow because of taxes. No business decides to hire a new employee or not because of taxes. Why doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Congress understand that? US Senator Everett Dirksen once said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;A billion here, a billion there, pretty soon it adds up to real money.â&#x20AC;? No more. Now, we talk trillions. This debate is silly. Ignore the rhetoric. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about how much more are we going to borrow and increase the deficit. It is not about reducing the deficit by a dime. David Post is the owner of a small business that was founded in Washington, DC and is on Inc. Magazines list of the fastest growing companies in the US. He was a professor at American University and Georgetown for 10 years.

feature

story

The Making of a Museum

How the glorious National Gallery of Art got its start when a friend lent Paul Mellon the keys to his apartment. By Donna Evers

he beautifully conceived Beaux Arts building by architect Jules de Sibour, which now houses the National Trust for Historic Preservation, was once a grand apartment building. The six apartments in the McCormick Apartment Building each had 11,000 square feet of living space, 21 rooms, and six fireplaces. In present day Washington, a 2000 square foot apartment is considered very large, so these apartments were downright palatial in comparison. There were grand salons and servants’ quarters, and the tenants included, at various times, hostess Perle Mesta, Robert Woods Bliss of Dumbarton Oaks ,and Andrew W. Mellon, the multi-millionaire financier and art collector from Pittsburgh. One other inhabitant of the building was the British art collector, Baron Joseph Duveen, who was knighted in Great Britain because of the great many art masterpieces he donated to museums in his home country. His immense drawing rooms were filled with art treasures, and he and Mel-

lon soon became friends. Lord Duveen was also a master salesman, who was able to drive up the prices of his own collections by his persuasive sales techniques. When Lord Duveen visited Mellon’s apartment, he would praise Mellon’s own paintings with great eloquence, and Mellon would say, “Lord Duveen, my pictures nev-

Great times.

er look so good as when you are here.” When Lord Duveen decided he wanted to sell the art collection to his friend, he gave Mellon the key to his apartment while he took off for a long ocean voyage. Mellon spent many happy hours in his friend’s apartment, and, when Duveen returned, Mellon bought the entire corpus

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and then set out to find a home for his growing personal collection. This collection was a part of the cornerstone for the National Museum of Art, which Andrew Mellon gifted to the nation so that its capital city could have a museum to rank with the great galleries of Europe. Mellon chose John Russell Pope to design the neoclassical building, and, as he dedicated more and more pieces of art to the gallery, other collectors and art patrons stepped forward to contribute their collections to the museum-in-progress. This process has continued since the dedication of the building in 1939, right up to the present day. In 1978, the gallery was expanded with the I.M. Pei-designed East Wing, and today the galleries hold a monumental treasure of art works, along with visiting exhibits from all over the world. Andrew Mellon never lived to see the museum completed. He was diagnosed with cancer when the project began, but he used all of his remaining strength and time to see that construction began. His museum is probably the only one of its prestige and magnitude in the world that is completely free to the public. Kudos to the vision and magnanimity of Andrew W. Mellon, and thanks, too, to his neighbor Lord Duveen.

Call us for a tour 202-338-6111

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Publication: The Georgetowner | Ad size: 10.25 in x 6.125 in (1/2 page horizontal)

2512 Q Street, NW, Washington, DC 20007 www.thegeorgetown.com gmg, Inc. December 15, 2010 11

featured

property

THE TOWNHOUSES OF WORMLEY ROW

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collection of six large, Victorian-style luxury townhouses with a wonderful melding of quintessential Georgetown and today’s state-of-the-art house. Top-of-the-line finishes, various floor plans available to choose from and customize, grand scale and tall ceilings, architectural detail, fireplaces, elevator option, and two underground parking spaces included. These Townhouses will be built using brand new, top quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and timeless design, yet will appear to have been a part of the fabric of Georgetown since the early 19th Century. Features include: Dramatic foyers, with custom inlaid White Oak hardwood flooring in a decorative pattern; First floor ceiling heights of

10’0”, Second and Third floor ceiling heights of 9’0”, and Lower Level Ceiling Heights of 8’6”; Solid TruStile 8’ Tall Four Panel Wood Doors on the first floor, 7’0” high wood doors on all other floors, with polished nickel lever hardware throughout; 5” wide planks of Quarter sawn White Oak hardwood flooring throughout, other than baths, which are stone; Custom poplar wood trim throughout, including 14” crown mouldings, door and window casings, 9” tall base, etc.; and much more. For more information, visit www.WormleyRow.com, or contact: Mary Grover Ehrgood, 202.274.4694 John B. Adler 202.966.8838 3201 New Mexico Avenue, NW, Suite 220

Great Value in the City of Falls Church! Contemporary take on classic design. Spacious, quiet, and inviting, this custom-built home is ideally located next to peaceful Tallwood. With over 5,000 square feet of living space on 4 levels, the residence offers 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, “green” features, open floor plan, granite/stainless steel kitchen, family room with wet bar, elegant dining, fully-finished lower level, au pair/in-law suite, front and rear porches, 2 fireplaces, and 2-car garage, offered at $1.135M. Please call for a private showing.

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$1,995,000

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performance

Carmen Cusack

Brings It Home In “South Pacific” By Gary Tischler

ne thing about headlining not one, but two tours of major Broadway shows: you CAN go home again. That’s certainly been the case for Carmen Cusack, who is starring in the national tour of the Tony-Award winning revival of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “South Pacific,” now at the Kennedy Center’s Opera House through January 16. Cusack stars as the brimming-with-optimism Army nurse Nellie Forbush, the role originated by the legendary Mary Martin in the 1940s original. Singing some iconic R&H songs like “I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair” and “Wonderful Guy,” this national tour has brought her home in a big way. “It’s good to be back,” Cusack said. “I’m thinking when this is all over that I want to settle in New York, make the rounds, do the process.” Cusack has a personal pedigree as American as her character, Nellie. Born in Colorado and raised in Houston, she has a performing arts degree from the University of North Texas State. But she left soon after getting her degree, first signing a contract to basically tour the world performing on the QUE2, settling down in England, touring and performing on the continent. In England, she built a pretty large and eclectic resume, starring as Christine in “Phantom of the Opera,” as Fantine in “Les Miserables,” and for something completely different, a role in “Jack and the Space Vixens.” “South Pacific,” with which she’s been touring nationally to great reviews, is something of a nationally iconic show, and Cusack knows it. “You know, I think people sometimes think of Nellie as naïve or innocent,” she says. “I don’t think that’s the case. I mean, this was army life in World War II, so you can’t stay innocent for too long. But she is naturally optimistic, and that’s a great, appealing part of her character. What happens when she falls in love with the French planter is that some innate prejudice comes up which she can’t shake. “It’s hard to play that,” she says. “It’s hard to find that in yourself. Because that’s not what I’m like. I sort of touched

14 December 15, 2010 gmg, Inc. 1

base with growing up in the South where things were said you might not hear so easily elsewhere. “I think the show tries to be realistic about life in wartime,” she said. “You don’t see black and white soldiers hanging out together, mingling. The director, in fact, separated us off stage too so we could get a feel for what it was like.” If you check out her personal website, you get the feel that Cusack can handle pretty much anything, that she may surprise you every time out. Her looks, of course, change every time out. “I am the woman of many hair colors,” she quips, noting the blondish, curly do for Nelli,e which hides her naturally lustrous dark brown hair. She is also the woman who may end up with the jolly green giant. She landed the road company lead of Elphaba—the green-skinned Wicked Witch in the Land of Oz—in “Wicked.” “Yup,” she said. “I was green.” Her voice has range. Technically she’s a soprano, but she pours all kinds of surprises into the sampling of songs on her site, from brassy, breathy and witchy, seductive, to anthem-out-there. One of her favorite projects, and one of her apparent idols, was the late Eva Cassidy, a local legend in the DC area for her poignant, piercing, aching singing as much as her early, tragic death from cancer. “I performed her music, played her in a show called ‘Over the Rainbow,’” she said. “She was a phenomenal talent, and it will be interesting to be here.” The green girl brought her back to the United States when she joined the touring company in Chicago as a standby. She jumped in to land the national touring starring role and now she’s in the quintessential American tour, being “as corny as Kansas in August.” “I think it was time to come back. It’s great to be back,” she said. “Right now, I’m touring, so I’m not settled,” she said, calling from Rhode Island before coming to DC. “But after that, I’m thinking about New York.” With the presence of “South Pacific,” Washington becomes practically R&H headquarters, what with the hit revival of “Oklahoma!” at the Arena Stage. Welcome home, Nellie, and Carmen too.

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country

The Fox’s Den Tavern Inspiration from within By Georgia Shallcross

beguiling print of Benjamin Franklin hangs in the powder room of The Fox’s Den Tavern, in Middleburg, Virginia. Why is Benjamin Franklin hanging in the loo? As it happens, one of the owners of the restaurant, Charlie Carroll, is a direct descendant of Franklin and three other signers of the Declaration of Independence. There are countless other surprises at the Fox’s Den Tavern, which Carroll recently opened with his longtime companion Christie Knoff. If lighting is everything, this cute couple has brilliantly succeeded with a sophisticated ambiance worthy of any great dining establishment. While the Fox’s Den Tavern has the inviting atmosphere and comforts of a private club, the comparison ends there. “We wanted the best,” said Knoff of their decision to hire Vi Nguyen, a highly accomplished chef trained in the classical French tradition. Nguyen has created a superb menu of fine American cuisine, including pan seared rainbow trout with beurre blanc, lobster and truffle macaroni and cheese, and the enormously popular fried oysters. Parts of the menu change daily, so one will never tire of this magical spot, which even makes the famously temperate founding father smile.

wanted to create a space that was inviting and makes you want to stay. GT: The Burgundy walls have magically transformed the space. Who chose the color? C&C: We did, despite some skepticism about a dark color. We found the color and tripled the hue to bring out the texture and warmth. GT: What other structural changes were made to the space? C&C: We refinished the bar using old wood with a beautiful patina and we utilized the wall to make a long banquet with comfortable pillows

The Georgetowner sat down to speak with Charlie and Christie (C&C) about their new establishment and discuss the joys of being countryside restaurateurs.

GT: How did you decide to decorate in an elegant Edwardian fashion? The objects are lovely and seem to have a rich provenance. C&C: That is because they are our own belongings! We had many things in storage. We

GT: You have created a sumptuously elegant interior, which makes people want to stay for hours. C&C: Yes, thank you. That’s also why we have different seating areas. The bar and a casual lounge with sofas are separate from the tables and banquette room, which makes it easy to accommodate large groups.

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restaurant. We wanted the best, and I’m pretty sure we got him.

C&C: We were the general managers of the Charlotte Inn on Martha’s Vinyard for thirteen years. Every aspect of the inn was impeccable and set a great example.

GT: What distinguishes your restaurant from others?

GT: Before we get to the food, how did you select the staff? C&C: We wanted a familial feeling. We have Noel Ryan tending bar and Jamie Plaskitt, a fourth generation Middleburg native, and other wonderful staff members. GT: How did you find your chef?

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C&C: Good Service, good food, and an elegant, but casual atmosphere.

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GT: How do you like being in Middleburg? C&C: We love it. It’s such a small and friendly community. We were inspired to open the Fox’s Den while we were visiting family in the area. It’s a perfect place to have a restaurant like ours. We are thrilled about the restaurant and being in Middleburg.

C&C: Before we met our chef we knew that The Fox’s Den Tavern is located at 7 W Washwe wanted a classic comfort food. Our chef, ington St, Middleburg, VA 20117. Call the resVi Nguyen, is classically French trained. He taurant at 540 687 4165 for reservations and worked at the Ritz Carleton and in his family’s more9:51 information. Georgetowner.12.12.10:Layout 1 12/13/10 AM Page 1

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STOVER MILL

CHESTNUT COOMBE

Fabulous Horse Property on 99+ acres in Piedmont Hunt �Custom built 7 Bedroom Stone Manor Hous�Heated Pool with outdoor Kitchen�9 Stall Center-Aisle Barn with 3 Bedroom Apartment �6 Stall Barn �Utility Barn�Stonewalls�Fenced Paddocks �Creek�Pond�Riding Ring�Additional House $3,990,000 site�Amazing Views�ProtectedArea

Charming c.1909 stucco farm house privately located on 37+ acres overlooking Goose Creek � 4 Bedrooms, 2.5 baths with full basement and walk-up attic. Includes 1800’s stone and frame water-powered grist mill �5 Stall Barn �Fenced paddocks �Two large spring fed ponds �Surrounded by over 500+ acres of protected farm land. One of a kind location in Piedmont Hunt. $1,950,000

Charming 3 bedroom cottage recently renovated with attention to preserving historical detail. Inviting covered porch with views of mountains, stream and pastures. Exposed stone. Protected views. Beautiful land. Lovely two stall barn with large tack room, stone terrace and lots of storage. Fenced paddocks with two $850,000 run-in sheds. Convenient to I-66.

Paris Mountain �58.65 acres �Serene woodland setting opens to far reaching mountain and valley views, sparkling pond, light filled one level home with open floor plan, vaulted/beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces, hardwood floors, views and access to decks from every room �3 Bedroom, 2 Bath �2 Car Garage �Privacy �Trails �Also available for rent, fully furnished. $849,000

SA LE

RE N T

UPPERVILLE HORSE FARM

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdraw without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

THOMAS AND TALBOT REAL ESTATE LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS SINCE 1967 A STAUNCH ADVOCATE OF LAND EASEMENTS

Telephone (540) 687-6500 � Metro (703) 478-8180 P.O. Box 500 � 2 South Madison Street Middleburg �Virginia 20117

gmg, Inc. December 15, 2010 19

Your Dining Guide to Washington DC’s Finest

1789 RESTAURANT

BANGKOK BISTRO

BANGKOK JOE’S

Bistro Francais

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

Come and enjoy contemporary Thai cuisine & Sushi bar deliciously prepared at Bangkok Bistro. The restaurant’s decor matches its peppery cuisine, vibrant in both color and flavor. Enthusiasts say we offer professional, prompt and friendly service. Experience outdoor sidewalk dining in the heart of Georgetown.

(One block from Georgetown Lowe’s theatres)

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

1226 36th St, NW

Open seven nights a week. Jackets required. Complimentary valet parking. www.1789restaurant.com

3251Prospect St, NW

Open for lunch and dinner. Sun.-Thurs.11:30am - 10:30pm Fri.-Sat. 11:30am - 11:30pm

3000 K St NW

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. www.bangkokjoes.com

www.bangkokbistrodc.com (202) 965-1789

CAFE BONAPARTE 1522 Wisconsin Ave

Captivating customers since 2003 Café Bonaparte has been dubbed the “quintessential” European café featuring award winning crepes & arguably the “best” coffee in D.C! Located in sophisticated Georgetown, our café brings a touch of Paris “je ne sais quoi” to the neighborhood making it an ideal romantic destination. Other can’t miss attributes are; the famous weekend brunch every Sat and Sun until 3pm, our late night weekend hours serving sweet & savory crepes until 1 am Fri-Sat evenings & the alluring sounds of the Syssi & Marc jazz duo every other Wed. at 7:30. We look forward to calling you a “regular” soon!

www.cafebonaparte.com (202) 333-8830

CITRONELLE (The Latham Hotel) 3000 M St, NW

Internationally renowned chef and restaurateur Michel Richard creates magic with fresh and innovative American-French Cuisine, an exceptional wine list and stylish ambiance.

(202) 337-2424

Café La Ruche

1039 31st Street, NW Take a stroll down memory lane. Serving Georgetown for more than 35 years - Since 1974 Chef Jean-Claude Cauderlier A bit of Paris on the Potomac.

Great Selection of Fine Wines Fresh Meat, Seafood & Poultry Chicken Cordon-Bleu *Duck Salmon, & Steaks

Voted Best Dessert-Pastry in town, The Washingtonian Magazine FULL BAR Open Daily from 11:30 a.m. Open Late ‘til 1 am on Friday & Saturday night Now Offering Happy Hours Mon-Fri 4-7PM Happy hour appetizers and Specialty Drinks www.cafelaruche.com (202) 965-2684

CLYDE’S OF GEORGETOWN 3236 M St, NW

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

Open for Dinner.

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

Valet parking.

www.clydes.com

www.citronelledc.com

(202) 625-2150

20 December 15, 2010 gmg, Inc.

(202) 333-9180

(202) 333-4422

CAFE MILANO

3124-28 M St NW

(202) 338-3830

CHADWICKS

3251 Prospect St. NW

3205 K St, NW (est.1967)

Cafe Milano specializes in setting up your private party in our exclusive dining rooms. Our detail-oriented staff also will cater your corporate meetings & special events at your office, home or other locations. Check out our website for booking information or call 202-965-8990, ext. 135. Cafe Milano is high on the restaurant critics’ charts with excellent Italian cuisine & attention to service. Fresh pastas, steaks, fish dishes, & authentic Italian specialties. Lunch & dinner. Late night dining & bar service.

A Georgetown tradition for over 40 years, this friendly neighborhood restaurant/saloon features fresh seafood, burgers, award-winning ribs, & specialty salads & sandwiches. Casual dining & a lively bar. Daily lunch & dinner specials. Late night dining (until midnight Sun.Thu., 1A.M. Fri-Sat) Champagne brunch served Sat. & Sun. until 4P.M. Open Mon-Thu 11:30A.M.-2A.M. Fri-Sat 11:30A.M.-3A.M.Sun 11A.M.-2A.M.Kids’ Menu Available. Located ½ block from the Georgetown movie theatres, overlooking the new Georgetown Waterfront Park

www.CafeMilano.net (202) 333-6183

DAILY GRILL

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

(202) 337-4900

BISTROT LEPIC & WINE BAR 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. Reservations suggested. www.bistrotlepic.com (202) 333-0111

CIRCLE BISTRO

One Washington Circle, NW Washington, DC 22037 Circle Bistro presents artful favorites that reflect our adventurous and sophisticated kitchen. Featuring Happy Hour weekdays from 5pm-7pm, live music every Saturday from 8pm-12midnight, and an a la carte Sunday Brunch from 11:30am-2:30pm. Open dailyfor breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.circlebistro.com

ChadwicksRestaurants.com (202) 333.2565

FILOMENA RISTORANTE

1063 Wisconsin Ave., NW One of Washington’s most celebrated restaurants, Filomena is a Georgetown landmark that has endured the test of time for almost a quarter of a century. Our oldworld 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) 338-8800

(202) 293-5390

FAHRENHEIT

Georgetown 3100 South St, NW Restaurant & Degrees Bar & Lounge The Ritz-Carlton, As featured on the cover of December 2007’s Washingtonian magazine, Degrees Bar and Lounge is Georgetown’s hidden hot spot. Warm up by the wood burning fireplace with our signature “Fahrenheit 5” cocktail, ignite your business lunch with a $25.00 four-course express lunch, or make your special occasion memorable with an epicurean delight with the fire inspired American regional cuisine. www.fahrenheitdc.com (202) 912-4110

Celebrating over 31 years of keeping bellies full with good food and thirsts quenched with tasty beverages. · Fantastic Happy Hour · Free WiFi Internet · Buck Hunter · Trivia Night Tuesdays Including: Terrace Dining Upstairs www.garrettsdc.com (202) 333-1033

2813 M St. Northwest, Washington, DC 20007

M | STREET BAR & GRILL & the 21 M Lounge 2033 M Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036-3305

SEA CATCH

1054 31st St, NW

3251 Prospect St. NW

The tremendous popularity of The Peacock Happy Day Brunch in Washington DC is legendary. The breakfast and brunch selections offer wonderful variety and there is a new selection of fresh, spectacular desserts everyday. The Peacock Café in Georgetown, DC - a fabulous menu for the entire family. Monday - Thursday: 11:30am - 10:30pm Friday: 11:30am - 12:00am Saturday: 9:00am - 12:00am Sunday: 9:00am - 10:30pm (202) 625-2740

SMITH POINT

1338 Wisconsin Ave., NW (corner of Wisconsin & O St.) Smith Point has quickly become a favorite of Georgetowners. The Washington Post Magazine calls Smith Point “an underground success” with “unusually good cooking at fair prices.” Chef Francis Kane’s Nantucket style fare changes weekly, featuring fresh combinations of seafood, meats, and farmers market produce. Open for dinner Thurs- Sat from 6:30 pm-11pm. www.smithpointdc.com (202) 333-9003

3050 K St. NW Washington, DC 20007

Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a business lunch, enjoy wonderM Street Bar & Grill, in the St. GregNick’s Riverside Grille is a famful Boudin Blanc, Fresh Dover ily-owned waterfront restaurant ory Hotel has a new Brunch menu serving great American fare, fine Sole Meunière, Cassoulet or Pike by Chef Christopher Williams Feasteaks, authentic pasta dishes and Quenelles by the fireplace in this turing Live Jazz, Champagne, Mithe freshest seafood! Our Georgeunique “Country Inn”. Chef Patmosas and Bellini’s. For Entertaintown waterfront dining room has rick Orange serves his Award ing, small groups of 12 to 25 people spectacular views of the Potomac Winning Cuisine in a rustic atmowishing a dining room experience River, Kennedy Center, Washingsphere, where locals and celebrities we are featuring Prix Fixe Menus: ton Monument, Roosevelt Island, alike gather. La Chaumiere also of$27.00 Lunch and $34.00 Dinner. the AKey Bridge, the surrounding SEAFOOD WITH VIEW fers 2 private dining rooms with aDELICIOUS Washington, DC area, plus our spaLunch and dinner specials daily. cious outdoor terrace is a great dinprix-fixe menu and an affordable ing spot to take in all the waterfront wine list. www.mstreetbarandgrill.com scenery! Washingtonian’s Best 100 restaurant 28 years in a row. www.lachaumieredc.com www.nicksriversidegrille.com (202) 530-3621 (202) 342-3535 (202) 338-1784

Peacock Cafe Established in 1991, Peacock Cafe is a tradition in Georgetown life.

Nick’s Riverside Grille

Rocklands

Barbeque and Grilling Company 2418 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Washington’s best genuine barbeque, smoked over red oak and hickory, served with traditional sides. Since 1990, Rocklands has been serving delectable chopped pork, smoky ribs and barbequed beef to our community and Presidents alike. Open every day, in Glover Park, Arlington, Alexandria and Rockville; delivery and full-service catering too. Sign up for e-news and get the latest dish at www.rocklands.com.

Lovers of seafood can always find something to tempt the palette at the Sea Catch Restaurant & Raw Bar. Sea Catch offers fresh seafood “simply prepared” in a relaxed atmosphere. Overlooking the historic C&O Canal, we offer seasonal fireside and outdoor dining. Private party space available for 15 - 300 Complimentary parking Lunch Monday - Saturday 11:30am - 3:00pm Dinner Monday - Saturday 5:30pm - 10:00pm Closed on Sunday Happy Hour Specials at the Bar Monday - Friday 5:00pm -7:00pm www.seacatchrestaurant.com (202) 337-8855

(202) 333-2558

SETTE OSTERIA

1666 Conn. Ave at R St. NW (Dupont Circle) Edgy. Witty. Casual. THE patio near Dupont Circle for peoplewatching. Pizza masters bake delicious Neapolitan thincrust pizzas in a wood-fire oven. Menu favorites include pastas, salads, lasagnas, Italian specialty meats and cheeses, and lowcarb choices. Daily specials, Lunch & dinner. Late night dining & bar service. www.SetteOsteria.com

(202)483-3070

Tony and Joe’s TOWN HALL Seafood Place 2218 Wisconsin Ave NW Dive into Tony3000 andKJoe’s Seafood Place this summer St, NW If you’re in the mood for fresh delica- Town Hall is a neighborhood favorite Ranked one of the most popular and enjoy the best seafood dining has of to Glover Park, offering cies from the sea, dive into Tony Georgetown and in the heart seafood restaurants in , DC, “this Joe’s Seafood Place at the George- a classic neighborhood restaurant and cosmopolitan”send-up of a vinoffer. Make your reservation and mention this town Waterfront. While today enjoying bar with contemporary charm. Whethtage supper club that’s styled after tempting dishes such as Maryland er its your 1st, 2nd or 99th time in the a ‘40’s-era ocean liner is appointed be entered to lobster win a FREE Brunch forwe’re Two!committed to serving you fresh and shrimp door, with cherry wood and red leatherad tocrabcakes, THE OCEANAIRE 1201 F St, NW

scampi you have spectacular views of a great meal and making you feel at booths, infused with a “clubby, old the Potomac River, Kennedy Center, home each and every time. Come try money” atmosphere. The menu Washington Monument, Roosevelt one of our seasonal offerings and find showcases “intelligently” prepared 202-944-4545 | www.tonyandjoes.com Island, and the Key Bridge. Visit us out for yourself what the Washingfish dishes that “recall an earlier onHarbour Sundays for our award winning Post dubbed DC the “Talk of Glover time of elegant” dining. What’s Washington | 3000 K Street NW | ton Washington, brunch buffet. Come for the view, Park”Make a reservation online today more, “nothing” is snobbish here. stay for the food! at www.townhalldc.com Sunday thruand Thursday: -10PM@tonyandjoes Lunch: Mon-Fri- 11:30am -5:00pm Tony Joe’s 11AM | Friday & Saturday: 11AM - Midnight Serving Dinner Daily5PM-10:30pm Dinner: Mon-Thur 5-10pm. Fri & Beverage Service until 1:30AM Brunch Sat & Sun 11:30AM-5PM Sat 5-11pm. Sun-5-9pm. every night Free Parking available www.theoceanaire.com VISITwww.tonyandjoes.com OUR FAMILY OF DC RESTAURANTS (202) 333-5640 (202) 347-2277 (202) 944-4545

3003 M Street N.W., Washington, DC 20007

La Chaumiere

Garrett’s Georgetown

’S NICKERSIDE E RIV GRILL

nicksriversidegrille.com

1725 DeSales St NW

Tapas – Specialty Drinks Martini’s Citrus - Cosmopolitan - Sour Apple - Blue Berry Summer Patio – Open Now! Coming Soon. “New” Tyson’s Corner Location Open NOW! Dining Room Monday - Friday: 11:30am-11:00pm Saturday: 5:00pm-11:00pm Bar Hours Mon.-Thursday: 11:30am-11:00pm Friday: 11:30am- 2:00am Saturday: 5:00pm- 2:00am (202) 293-7760

Sequoia

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 (202) 944-4200

Zed’s

1201 28TH St, N.W. ETHIOPIAN IN GEORGETOWN Award Winning Seafood | Poultry | Beef Vegetarian Dishes also available 100 Very Best Restaurants Award 100 Very Best Bargains Award Also, visit Zed’s “New” Gainesville, Virginia location (571) 261-5993 At the Corner of M & 28th Streets 1201 28th Street, N.W. Email: zeds@zeds.net (202) 333-4710

gmg, Inc. December 15, 2010 21

Dancing CRAB The

thedancingcrab.com

Panache Restaurant

cabanasdc.com

Across the Cutting Board with Ris

A Winter’s Night with Ris

By Ari Post, with Ris Lacoste

is’ the season to be fat and happy. Let’s just face it. There are endless news articles that come out this time of year warning the helpless public of the looming holiday season and its devious inclination to burden us all with blubbery baggage around our midsections. Then they will proceed to assure us that if we just follow some odd number of holiday eating tips, we can make it through to spring as bright and trim as a daisy. Or we can be honest with ourselves and accept our fate.

I have always done what I can to keep fit, but despite my most diligent efforts, I never fail to pack on a few cold-weather pounds. That’s just how it goes. Squirrels do it and so do bears, and they seem fairly content on the whole. So I’m just not going to burden my conscience with a five-pound margin of error. It’s frigid outside. There is less light. Our body’s natural reaction to these harsher elements is to cushion itself with a bit of insulation to keep warm. That’s surely one of the reasons we start craving heavier, thicker, more nourishing foods in the wintertime. Foods like chicken potpie. There are few

Friday December 31, 2010 at 6pm until 3am If you want to ring in the New Year and 2011 right, you better plan on rolling down the red carpet and being at Hudson Restaurant and Lounge. It will be a night to remember! Wear your best and have your paparazzi photo taken at the door

Make dinner Reservations by calling 202 872-8700

Buy Tickets for Admission and Open Bar Packages by going on line to our events section on our website. www.hudson-dc.com 22 December 15, 2010 gmg, Inc.

dishes that so instantly activate our receptors for things rich and savory, says Ris. A buttery, flakey crust enveloping a gluey union of chicken and softened vegetables in a milieu of thick gravy that binds all the parts together like an idea giving form to the words of a sentence. Like many of the dishes Ris chooses to cook with me, potpie is a time-honored, traditional food that can be endlessly incarnated. It is one that takes kindly to experimentation and exploration. And as I have found with Ris, her concern isn’t always what she puts in these dishes, but how to handle the preparation and the ingredients in use to bring out as much natural flavor as possible. Whether you add kielbasa or andouille sausage, parsnips or carrots, peas or broccoli is not vital to the essence of the dish. Each substitute will add a different dimension. What matters is that you put in the herbs first thing to season the melted butter, and make sure the vegetables are all nicely aromatic before mixing in the stock, releasing the flavors of each ingredient which fuse together as they simmer. Pre-roasting the pearl onions and mushrooms will ensure that much more flavor. Deglaze them with sherry for even more. Ris prefers grainy roux for use in potpies. The proportions are roughly equal parts butter to flour, but adjust to preference, she suggests. Slowly whisking the flour into the melted butter keeps it from forming clumps. And cook it well, says Ris, “to avoid that raw flour taste and bring out the nuttier side of the four.” Another point she stresses is to never add salt and pepper to the dish until after you have combined all the ingredients into the pot (added the stock and the roux and the potatoes to your vegetables) and your filling has had time to reduce. The reduction process intensifies the salt of the stock, and you run the risk of over-seasoning if you’re not patient. Also keep in mind that diced potatoes only take about five minutes to cook, so once you add them you should be nearly finished. When the filling is looking like it’s ready, I watch Ris pick up a spoon and dab the underside against the filling in the pot. She is “napping” the back of the spoon, she explains to me as she reveals the gooey film that has adhered itself to the spoon’s belly. This tests the consistency of the filling and lets you know if it’s ready. Upon running a finger across the sticky spoon, if the gap you created in the gravy does not fill itself back in, your filling is at the right consistency. You are now ready to ladle it into its bed of pie crust and stick it in the oven. Again, like many of the dishes Ris and I have cooked together, chicken potpie is a great vehicle for leftovers. “Just like borscht is a kind of Eastern European method for dealing with leftovers,” she says, “potpie is a very British way to use them.”

Use turkey, sweet potatoes, salmon, asparagus or anything in between, says Ris. A Shepard’s Pie, potpie’s Irish relative, is traditionally made with lamb or beef with a mashed potato topping in place of the pie crust. But a true potpie demands a pie crust, and it’s important that it be done the right way. “You should always cook the crust with the potpie filling,” Ris tells me. “The crust should never be cooked separately. It must bubble together with the filling.” Ris recommends 100% pure butter puff pastry, which you can buy frozen from the grocery store if baking isn’t your strong suit. Don’t let cold weather get the better of you. Put on the burner, heat up the oven and bring some warmth into the winter months ahead. A few extra winter pounds have never been more worth it. For an endive, walnut and Bleu Cheese salad with Port vinaigrette, which pairs beautifully with the potpie, and a chocolate cake recipe right from Ris’ kitchen, go to www.Georgetowner.com and click on Food & Wine. It’s the perfect end to a winter’s night. Or visit Ris at her restaurant. Go to www.RisDC.com to find out more and see her menu.

RIS’ Chicken Pot Pie “In my humble opinion, there should always be plenty of light, flaky crust in a chicken potpie. At my house we would fight over my mother’s flaky pastry lining the bottom of the pyrex baking dish. Make plenty of your favorite pie dough or buy 100% butter puff pastry, rolled to 1/6” and cut to cover and/or encase individual ramekins or larger casseroles.” —Ris For the roux 4 ounces butter 1 cup flour For the filling makes 3-4 quarts, 6-8 servings 8 oz mushrooms, quartered if large and roasted until golden, seasoned with S&P, fresh thyme and olive oil. 1 cup pearl onions, peeled and roasted until golden seasoned with salt, pepper, fresh thyme and olive oil. 2 Tbsp butter 1 large onion, diced, about 2 cups 2 large stalks celery, large dice, about 1 cup 2 carrots, large dice, about 1 cup 2 Tbsp chopped fresh thyme 2 Tbsp chopped fresh sage 2 qts chicken stock 1 bay leaf 1 large potato, large dice, about 1 cup Root vegetables that are available: parsnip, celery root or sweet potato or all of the above, large dice Salt and freshly ground pepper 1 cup frozen English peas 2 cups roasted chicken meat, or to taste Sherry vinegar Roll out your pastry to suit your needs and keep covered in the refrigerator until ready to use. Make the roux: Melt the butter in a heavy based saucepan. Whisk in the flour stir constantly, spreading the paste over the bottom of

C o c k ta i l o f t h e W e e k the pan to lightly color and cook the flour, for about 5 minutes. Set aside in a warm place until ready to use. Roast the mushrooms and pearl onions. Set aside when done until ready to use. In a heavy based 2-gallon soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the 2 Tablespoons of butter and add the diced onions, celery and carrots. Sprinkle with the chopped thyme and sage and cook until the onions are barely soft, stirring occasionally, just enough to release the aromatics from the vegetables, about 5 minutes. Add the chicken stock and bay leaf and bring to a boil. Let simmer for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors and season the stock. Add the potatoes and any additional root vegetables. Season lightly with salt and fresh cracked pepper. Bring just to a boil and add the peas, roasted mushrooms, roasted pearl onions and chicken meat. Bring back just to a boil again, keeping in mind that you have about 5 minutes to finish from this point before the potatoes are overcooked. Thicken with the roux, whisking in a bit at a time and dissolving each bit, not to leave lumps. Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt, pepper and a dash of sherry vinegar for brightness. Remove from the heat. Prepare your pastry to accommodate your vessel. Fill with the potpie filling and cover with more pastry. Filling can be hot if put in the oven immediately or chilled and can be kept in the refrigerated until ready to use. Cooking time will be in a 350 degree oven, but will depend on size of pie and whether or not filling was hot or cold. Individual portions take 20 minutes or so. Larger casseroles may take up to 1 hour.

The Puerto Rican Zombie By Miss Dixie

swim up bar is not the place a cocktail snob typically goes for a quality drink. Usually this fun resort amenity is associated with mass -produced frozen drinks, made from bottled mixes thrown together in industrial size blenders to satisfy the all-you-can-drink party crowd. But at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this is not the case. This time-honored resort boasts a lengthy cocktail history. It is well known as the birthplace of the Pina Colada. Bartender Ramon “Monchito” Marrer introduced the classic coconut cocktail in 1954, at the hotel’s now-defunct Beachcomber Bar. Joe Scialom, the inventor the classic Tiki drink, the Suffering Bastard, also tended bar at the Caribe Hilton in the 1950s. Continuing this long legacy of fine mixology is Ariel Rosario, who presides over the resort’s pool bar. Rosario, a rum connoisseur, has created an extensive list of signature cocktails. He’s even improved upon the pina colada, serving it in a hollowed out pineapple, carved into a whimsical sculpture, and fashioned with a smiling pineapple and cherry face. His creations highlight the distinct flavors of local rums and the abundance of tropical fruit. According to Rosario, many people think of rum as an unsophisticated spirit because of its history with pirates and people making it at

home during prohibition. But this is not true, he says. “In 1952 Puerto Rico created laws to govern the rums that are made here.” He points out. “Even the cheapest rum, if it’s made in Puerto Rico, goes through very strict regulations and processes. “ Puerto Rican rums are made from molasses and are aged for at least one year, which makes them a high quality spirit with much complexity according to Rosario. One of the most popular poolside libations is Rosario’s update on the vintage Zombie cocktail. The original Zombie was invented by Earnest Raymond Beaumont Gantt, the founder of the string of Don the Beachcomber restaurants that were popular during the Tiki era. His recipe consisted of fruit juices, liqueurs, and various rums, and it was named for its perceived effects upon the drinker. To make his Puerto Rican Zombie cocktail, Rosario uses five types of rum, four from Puerto Rico, as well as orange, pineapple, and guava and lime juices. “It has a lot of power and a lot of flavor,” he says. The beauty of Rosario’s concoction is that, despite its lengthy list of ingredients, the drinker can still detect the distinctive flavors of the various rums. “Each rum has unique flavor because of the way it is made,” he says. “So if you mix different types of rum, you will have a blend of tastes. You will notice the difference in a way you can’t achieve with other spirits.”

At Rosario’s suggestion, I try the drink first from the straw for a hit of flavor from the bottom and then sip it from the rim. Each way, I notice the subtleties. The top is lighter and fruitier while the swig from the bottom has a deep warm rum twang. I can pick out a syrupy caramel hint from the Meyers, a rich vanilla tone from the Barillito, the punch from the Bacardi 151, and the pleasant mixture of fruity tastes from the infused rums and tropical juices. While the drink doesn’t necessarily taste “strong,” I stop after one, not wanting to float away from my barstool.

The Puerto Rican Zombie ½ oz Meyers Dark Rum ½ oz Rum del Barillito ½ oz Don Q Limon ½ oz Bacardi Peach Red ½ oz. Bacardi 151 1 oz pineapple juice 1 oz orange juice ½ oz guava juice ½ oz lime juice Splash of grenadine Combine ingredients and mix well in a cocktail shaker. Serve in tall glass over ice. Garnish with fresh fruit. Ingredients to make the Puerto Rican Zombie may be purchased at Dixie Liquor at 3429 M Street in Georgetown.

Yves' Bistro is brought to Alexandria by Yves Courbois who founded and ran the late night Georgetown landmark Au Pied De Cochon, and Oyuna Badan who managed

Cafe La Ruche in Georgetown for 12 years.

3301 m street nw

Yves' Bistro 235 Swamp Fox Road Alexandria, VA 703 329 1010 www.YvesBistroVA.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK gmg, Inc. December 15, 2010 23

GIFT

rou at aff edia G t S nM The By getow r Geo

CULINAERIE Check out our new winter class schedule, everything from a 3-part sauce workshop to Couples American food & wine pairings. CulinAerie gift certificates are perfect for the culinary enthusiast in your life! 1131 14th Street NW

GIFTS FOR THE CHEF With so many of Georgetownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest storefronts offering among the best quality food and culinary products available, we at The Georgetowner have chosen our favorite selections of food-inspired gifts, all available right around the corner.

GUIDE

www.culinaerie.com

CUISINARTÂŽ CLASSIC FROZEN YOGURT, ICE CREAM AND SORBET MAKERS/ $49.95 Our fully automatic machine makes 1Â˝ quarts of your favorite frozen dessert in as little as 20 minutes. Add your favorite ingredients and flip the switch for delicious frozen treats. 5211 Wisconsin Avenue, NW

Newly launched Luxor Brut champagne, featuring 24k gold flakes in every bottle. Only 15,000 bottles produced yearly. A very special gift. Contact a rep at

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ART

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THE ELVIS

Elvis Reading Fan Mail Once inside his suite at the Warwick Hotel, Elvis found an envelope containing dozens of fan letters that were sent to him which he proceeded to read. New York City. March, 17, 1956 Elvis at 21, Photographs by Alfred Wertheimer was developed collaboratively by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service, and Govinda Gallery, and is sponsored nationally by The History Channel.

By Gary Tischler

hen you’re with Elvis, you start to feel like a rock star. When the “Elvis at 21, Photography by Alfred Wertheimer” traveling exhibition—an unusual collaboration among the Smithsonian Institution’s Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), the National Portrait Gallery and Georgetown’s Govinda Gallery—opened at the NPG a while back, people involved in the show started putting off R&R vibes. That seemed pretty true of Wertheimer himself. It’s been 54 years since he spent time with a budding national phenomenon named Elvis Presley, Elvis the pelvis, going to New York for an appearance on the Steve Allen show, to Richmond, Virginia, on a train ride to Memphis and Elvis’ pre-Graceland home. If there was a star in addition to Elvis on the wall that day, it was probably Wertheimer himself, standing in the spotlight in a pretty cool gray suit, salt and pepper beard and hair, full of stories about what happened in 1956. Right behind him stood Chris Murray, the founder of the Govinda Gallery, the man who had rediscovered Wertheimer’s cache of 1956 photos and shown them first in a small exhibition at Govinda a number of years ago, then added an expanded show eight years ago. Murray, who always looks like something of a rocker, is probably the king of rock and roll photography exhibitions in the area. Even museum folks like NPG director Martin Sullivan and the exhibition co-curators Amy Henderson and Warren Perry, an Elvis buff who walked to school in Memphis on Elvis Presley Boulevard, had that Elvis buzz, along with folks with SITES, and the first visitors to the show. Starburst Although flashbulbs were going off constantly during the performance, I knew they wouldn’t affect my still shots. Except for one. …When I developed the film, I discovered a shot of Elvis with a magnificent spray of light in front of him. Not strong enough to reach the stage, the flash in the audience highlighted the back of about thirty rows of heads as well. That random flash was in perfect sync with my shutter opening…. When I saw that photograph, it represented for me this entire experience and was better than anything I had done previously or would do later. Instead of ruining the frame, this unexpected lucky moment game me “Starburst.” — Al Wertheimer

Elvis had a way about him, and a little matter like his early death wouldn’t change that. “I was lucky,” Wertheimer tells everybody about how he came to take the pictures that caught, in the most natural, raw manner, a down-home former truck driver just about ready to shoot out into the super-firmament, straddling home, the past, family, friends and old girlfriends, the fire already lit under him to propel him away from all that into legend. In these 40-some enlarged photographs, Elvis is caught smelling the jet fuel that was burning in him, and savoring the first taste of what it all might bring, while simultaneously loosening his grip on the ties that bind. He was changing right before their eyes, and in the process he was changing the whole damn country, (and scaring it a little). “To be honest, I didn’t know who he was,” Wertheimer said. “But I got an inkling, that’s for sure. That was a special time. It was 1956, almost right in the middle of the fabled fifties of normalcy, Beaver, the Hit Parade, fallout shelters, cars with big fish fins, Davy Crockett, sexual ignorance. We all loved Ike, even if we were Democrats. And Elvis was singing “Hound Dog” and shaking his tail like a demon. He was singing “Shake, Rattle and Roll”, and “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Blue Suede

Shoes.” In February of that year, he had a Number One pop hit which nobody remembers now, the catchy “I Forgot to Remember to Forget.” He scared people, mostly parents, television censors and people like Steve Allen, who got him to sing with a hound dog on his show. What Wertheimer catches in these photographs is the beginning of a transformation—a boy singing roots music, still sometimes from a flatbed truck, changing into a star who could move his hips, show a pouty lip, hit the high notes and the low, and make girls scream en masse. He was completely natural then, a little full of himself, sure of his way with girls, cool with the guys, relaxed. “I had access,” Wertheimer said. “The old fly on the wall thing.” He must have been the most invisible little fly with a big camera when he caught Elvis with a pretty, blushed but cautious girl in a hallway prior to going on stage to sing. “He was trying to kiss her, you know, and she was doing what girls do, a little yes, a little no,” he said. “I had to shoot from up a little or behind and it was like I wasn’t there.” It was kind of a seduction, a full-speed courtship, a kinetic moment, forever in the annals now. Wertheimer had an eye for the periphery, a gift that actually allowed him to catch what was important. There are two shots of a girl who has just gotten an autograph from Elvis in New York; a

sweet young girl who looks like she’s just about to faint, explode or burst into tears, or all three at once. He caught Elvis on the piano in a hall, practicing, working a tune, and it was the kind of casual shot that might not look like anything, but it explains musicians, the secrets they keep. It became the cover for Peter Guarelnik’s classic biography “Last Train from Memphis.” He also captured the country: Elvis at lunch counters in the south, where segregation ruled. Yet it was Elvis—by being the white kid who could sing so-called race music, mixing it with pop and gospel and country—who made it possible for people like Fats Domino and Chuck Berry to rise further into the daylight, escape the prison of category and burst into rock and roll. If there had been no Elvis, no Chuck and Fats and Little Richard, does anyone really think Bill Haley could have sustained the genre? “I just followed him around,” Wertheimer said. “I don’t think I knew myself how important he would be. It was a freelance gig for a record company.” Elvis was on the verge. In the last series of photos, which Wertheimer shot from the train going home to Memphis, Elvis dropped off, running home to his old neighborhood, parents, new swimming pool, running into the fields with only a piece of luggage, waving at the folks in the train. Looking back, you might be tempted to think he was waving goodbye to his old life. If he was, we didn’t know and he probably didn’t either.

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Kneeling at the Mosque Elvis, on his knee in front of the foot lights, sings to his 3000 mostly teenage female fans, who were delighted by his presence and his music. He left them in tears of joy. Mosque Theater, Richmond, Va. June 30, 1956

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BODY & SOUL

SUCCESSFUL RESOLUTIONS By Katherine Tallmadge

Get rid of the foods in your house that you have a problem controlling. Bottom Line: If that saves just one 500 calorie binge per week, you could lose 7 pounds in a year.

CHOOSE “SURF” The numbers tell the story: 6 ounces of prime rib is 600 calories, sirloin is 450, salmon is 300, white fish is 180 calories. Choosing seafood over fatty red meat could save at least 300 calories per meal. Bottom Line: Do it four nights a week and lose 18 pounds in a year.

IRRITATE THE WAITER Shake up the usual order of things in a restaurant by ordering a salad or soup first, eating it, then ordering your entree. This will take the edge off your appetite so that you’ll order more modestly. Count on saving at least 400 calories per night out. Bottom Line: If you “irritate the waiter” just once a week, that adds up to losing 6 pounds a year.

HIT THE GROUND RUNNING Wake up in the morning. Yawn. Roll out of bed, go to the bathroom, have a drink of water, and slip on some exercise clothes. Don’t check e-mail or phone messages. Start moving. Now! Right away! Exercising first thing in the morning is one of the best things you can do for yourself. And it’s over with before you’re even awake! Bottom Line: Do it for just 15 minutes a day, and lose 10 pounds in a year!

GET SEXY LINGERIE After accomplishing just one of these strategies, reward yourself—or ask your spouse to—with something that’s not a box of chocolates or an elaborate dinner out. Make the substitution just once a week and you’ll save at least 1,200 calories.

nil,” you can be successful at achieving your New Year’s Resolution!

Successful weight loss is a lot like being successful at anything in life. Set a goal or resolution, plan concrete steps which will take you there and anticipate and avoid pitfalls while rewarding yourself along the way. Above all: Know thyself and plan appropriately! Regardless of Oscar Wilde’s belief that resolutions are “pure vanity; their result absolutely

Katherine Tallmadge, M.A., R.D. is a weight loss and nutrition consultant with a 20-year private practice in Georgetown. She is a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association and author of, Diet Simple: 192 Mental Tricks, Substitutions, Habits & Inspirations (LifeLine Press)

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eople are more successful at achieving their New Year’s Resolutions than widely believed. In fact, a study found the success rate of resolutions is ten times higher than the success rate of adults desiring to change without making a resolution. Half of American adults make New Year’s Resolutions. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, researchers found half of the people who made New Year’s Resolutions to quit smoking, lose weight, or start an exercise program were still successful at their goals six months later. The study, which compared people who carried out their resolutions and those who didn’t, clarified a few important things about how people successfully change. They found desire to change and introspection didn’t make a difference. What made the difference were actions. While unsuccessful resolvers talked a lot about their problem, successful resolvers actively worked toward their goal. They controlled their surroundings, avoided difficult situations and rewarded themselves for changing. If you want to lose weight, find strategies you can easily work into your lifestyle. Don’t try to make sweeping overhauls that are doomed to fail. Your goals should be realistic, specific and simple. Try just a few of the 192 tips excerpted from my book Diet Simple:

archiTecTure

overall beST GTown feel CAll NOW 202-338-4833 to sign up for the Annual 2011 Photography Contest. Submit up to five photographs taken of D.C. or anywhere in Georgetown and the coolest, most incredible, eye catching, blow us away photograph will WIN ThE FRONT COVER of our publication. Deadline for photograph submissions is: January 4th, 2011 Please send submissions to photography@georgetowner.com

GMG, Inc. December 15, 2010 27

SOCIAL

SCENE

ALEX OVECHKIN CELEBRATES ONE LOUNGE ANNIVERSARY

Ovechkin with ladies Photo by David Phillipich

NBC 4 John Schriffen and ESPN Erik Rydholm Photo by Erik Rydholm

One Lounge Co-owner Filipp Zeldin and Alex Ovechkin Photo by Karllito Antonio

Alexander Semin and Filipp Zeldin Photo by David Phillipich

Jessica Gibson and Pamela Sorenson Photo by David Phillipich

One Lounge Owners Niko Papademetriou - Seth McClelland - Filipp Zeldin - Daniel Kramer Photo by David Phillipich

hen the weather outside is frightful, join us inside for something delightful in the “hottest” destination in D.C.: The Living Room of Georgetown. With lofty ceilings featuring exposed brick reminiscent of the hotel’s roots and a roaring fire place, the Lobby presents a cozy, convivial atmosphere ideal for relaxing after a busy day or to begin a fabulous night on the town. The Living Room of Georgetown provides a sense of community in the heart of this hip, historic neighborhood and serves as an alternate gathering place where one can relax, savor a refreshing cup of coffee or smooth glass of wine, conduct impromptu meetings, and surf the complimentary wireless internet. This oasis of comfort is pet friendly too! ‘Tis the season of festive gatherings, and the ‘elves’ of The RitzCarlton, Georgetown are busy preparing the hotel to welcome visitors during this most wonderful time of the year with an array of exciting holiday happenings. From our delicious Christmas and New Year’s Eve dining offerings, to our signature s’mores by the fire, guests can revel in the magic of the holiday season at The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown. For more information about our holiday events and dining, please visit: www.ritzcarlton.

com/en/Properties/Georgetown/Information/Calendar/Default.htm. With the winter holidays upon us, you may be looking for an exceptional private event space for your seasonal entertaining. Fahrenheit, the hotel’s signature restaurant, reflects a warm yet contemporary theme and is an ideal venue for a special holiday event. Exposed steel beams and original red brick walls frame massive silk-draped windows that survey the towering Chimney Stack, the city’s most unique private dining room with a sky light. Our dining and event specialists will work closely with you to customize your holiday soiree so it’s just the way you want it. For those welcoming out of town guests, we have a sizzling holiday package offering just for you. Make your holiday list and check it twice, then arrive at The Ritz-Carlton, Georgetown for a weekend of being Naughty AND Nice. Jump start this tantalizing weekend on a “naughty” note by playing hookey on Friday and enjoy an early check in. Spend the day shopping in historic Georgetown while working up an appetite for a decadent evening filled with a seven course tasting menu including wine pairings in the hotel’s signature restaurant, Fahrenheit, topped off with a private s’more

making lesson. End this most pleasurable getaway on a “nice” note with a donation to the hotel’s community partner, Everybody Wins, a national children’s literacy and mentoring nonprofit proven to build the skills and love of reading among low-income elementary students. Our popular Boutique Spa has added luxurious new treatments to make you party-ready. The Alpha Beta Peel and the organic Cucumber Scrub will enhance your skin and leave it restored and rejuvenated. The Blueberry Detox Anti-Aging Organic Facial, swathes your skin in fresh Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries, and Pineapples, all high in antioxidants for an instant natural lift and the added benefit of reducing fine lines and wrinkles. This stimulating, energizing treatment has age defying elements that guarantee smoother looking skin that is refreshed and radiant. Please join me in celebrating this season of good cheer for one of our holiday events or a rejuvenating spa treatment right here in your home away from home, The Living Room of Georgetown! Best wishes,

Grant Dipman General Manager

3100 South Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20007 202.912.4100 www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Georgetown

28 December 15, 2010 GMG, Inc.

SOCIAL

GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY HOLIDAY PARTY Photos by Eliza Paul

SCENE

ANN HAND FETES INNOCENTS AT RISK On Dec. 8, Ann Hand opened the doors of her boutique for a holiday tea of champagne and shopping honoring Innocents at Risk. Guests were encouraged to bring a gift for a young woman or child to be donated to Courtney’s House, Crossway Community or Youth for Tomorrow. Deborah Sigmund should be justly proud of raising international awareness to the pervasiveness of human trafficking. Louise Akerblom, wife of the Ambassador of Luxembourg, and Deborah voiced their despair that this scourge exists in both a civilized European country and our nation’s capital. -Mary Bird

Charles DeSantis, Michele Conley with Will Krakowski (baby)

Christian Zapatka and sister Claire Zapatka

Carol Joynt with son Spencer

Jim Bracco and Ed Solomon

Ann Hand, Kathie Truitt

Louise Akerblom, wife of the Ambassador of Luxembourg; Deborah Sigmund, Juliana Zoto Efessiou

JAMAICAN WOMEN OF WASHINGTON Photos by Donovan Marks

On Dec. 2, Jamaican Women of Washington, Inc. (JWoW) held their annual holiday “friendraiser” reception co-hosted by Jamaican Ambassador Audrey P. Marks and D.C. First Lady Michelle Cross-Fenty, a JWoW Board member, at the Embassy of Jamaica. JWoW Founder and President Dr. Jacqui Watson welcomed guests. Mayor Adrian Fenty presented a proclamation citing the nonprofit for its important work on behalf of the vulnerable in Washington, DC and Jamaica. The warm spirit of the Caribbean was enhanced with signature mimosas, sorrel and Red Stripe beer and delicious nibbles from the Jamaica Eatery. This year’s fundraising theme was “Homelessness: It takes a village to shelter the homeless.” -Mary Bird

Michelle Cross Fenty, Mayor Fenty, Dr. Jacqui Watson and her husband, Dr. Steven Price

FOXHALL GALLERY SHOWCASES

DIVINELY BY THE DOZEN

David Wilmot, Esq., Vanena Raley, Ambassador of Jamaica Audrey P. Marks, UDC Pres. Dr. Alan Sessoms, JWoW Pres. Dr. Jacqui Watson

Mayor Adrian Fenty, Ambassador Audrey P. Marks

Sisters Jacqui and Kim Watson

Family and friends turned out in abundance on Dec. 11 as Jerry and Twila Eisley welcomed guests to their Foxhall Gallery where poet Elizabeth Sinclair and artist Lida Stifel proudly signed copies of their book Divinely by the Dozen: Heaven’s Flowers. Elizabeth read from her work and, expressing her gratitude to Lida, quoted her father “her paintings make my poems sing.” Musing on her joy as a poet, she wrote: “What someone said about compost is true: with enough of the right kind, flowers happen.” -Mary Bird

Kate Earls with her mother Elizabeth Sinclair

Wyatt Dickerson, Austin Kiplinger

GMG, Inc. December 15, 2010 29

THE

PLAYER

JAYLEE MEAD By Veena Trehan

e last spoke to Jaylee Mead in June 2006. Players Jaylee and husband Gil Mead were thrilled their $35 million gift to the Arena Stage – the largest donation ever to a regional theater – would be announced in less than a week. The retired NASA scientists inspired us with their deep commitment to the arts, and to each other. Jaylee Mead was widowed in May 2007 when Gil Mead died. But she has plunged forward with her trademark enthusiasm and smarts. She expanded her contribution to a theater scene second only to New York. The 2.5-year renovation of the Arena Stage has finished. Possibly the Meads greatest legacy, it has added a beautiful glass wave to the waterfront as three spaces (including the new Mead Center for American Theater) have been integrated in architect Bing Thom’s acclaimed design. A three-year, live-in writer program and an expanded schedule promise an even deeper artistic impact. The Arena opened with Oklahoma! This highest grossing play, which has drawn rave reviews, is another Mead contribution—the two inspired Arena Artistic Director Molly Smith to embrace the musical genre. But Oklahoma! is just one offering in a season that takes on contemporary social and cultural issues through riveting drama: plays about war-torn Congo (Ruined) domestic dysfunction (Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?), and homophobia (The Laramie Project) all play in 2010-2011. Jaylee believes this range is important. “You expand your own outreach or horizons, and being exposed to different kinds of theater helps you do that,” she says. The Meads have supported numerous spaces, establishing themselves as a top contributor to DC’s artistic transformation. Helen Hayes award founder Victor Shargai has known her for decades. He accompanied her to the interview and now the two go to many shows together. “She can be seen at almost every theater in city,” said Shargai. “Whatever she’s doing, she

30 December 15, 2010 GMG, Inc.

wants to be involved. She doesn’t want to just give money.” Mead serves on the boards of the Arena Stage, the Studio Theatre, and the Helen Hayes committee. She helped pick David Muse to replace Joy Zinoman and is very active in selecting the top players in DC theater. But her artistic involvement has sprung from humbler origins. Mead became the first woman to join NASA Goddard after she earned a mathematics degree from the University of North Carolina. “I had a lot to learn because most of the men had been to places like Harvard or MIT so they had very strong training,” she remembers. “My background was less strong, I’d say, but you make up for it by doing more reading and more talking to people.” She also went back to school, earning a PhD in astronomy from Georgetown University. She established the Goddard Astronomical Data Center to study stars and galaxies, ultimately earning the Women in Aerospace Lifetime Achievement Award and the 1986 NASA Medal for Scientific Leadership. NASA was also important personally. There she discovered deep, abiding loves of theater and of Gil Mead. She joined the theater group Music and Drama productions, often being directed by him. Nellie Forbush in South Pacific and Vera Charles in Mame are two of her favorite roles. The couple wanted to see how professionals handled every aspect of shows, so they went to the Signature Theatre, a space that showed several musicals each year. Sometimes they organized their cast of 50 to attend. The two soon became deeply enmeshed in the Signature. They sponsored shows and underwrote a scholarship for three high school students to attend an intense two-week musical theater camp with Broadway actors. Their Signature involvement led to the pioneering Arena Stage. One of the first regional theaters and theaters in the round, it was also the first locally to integrate. And Gil Mead soon achieved his dream to sit on the board.

Beyond their artistic contribution, theaters have helped transform neighborhoods. The Signature in Shirlington is a cultural anchor that draws in restaurants and retail for show audiences. And the Shakespeare Theater has been cited as a reason for the Verizon Center’s development in Penn Quarter. “I’m very pleased whenever I see a theater help develop the neighborhood. For example the Studio Theater on 14th has made a big difference up there with the kind of businesses that have moved in, the people it brings to the neighborhood,” says Mead. “That’s what I hope will happen down at the waterfront.” The Meads invited casts of different productions to their Watergate apartment, hosting dinner parties that turned into impromptu sing-alongs. The cast of Oklahoma! has been invited over later this month. “Nothing makes her happier than sitting around the piano just singing show tunes,” says Shargai.

She is equally comfortable in front of audiences and is one of the few people without notes at the local awards ceremony. “When she gets on stage and presents the tribute award for the Helen Hayes, she absolutely sparkles,” says Shargai. Her participation is appreciated by theaters that experiment with new mediums and formats. “She always finds good in anything,” says Signature Theatre Artistic Director Eric Schaeffer, who has known her for 15 years. “It is great for us artists because someone is supporting our efforts.” Mead often sits in the front row, immersed in and encouraging the production. Seeing her close by is an incomparable experience for actors, says Schaeffer, one of her many great creative fans. “She’s always giving back. She does it from the audience and she does it through her philanthropy,” he says. “She has this great spirit which is so enthusiastic.”

THE GEORGETOWNER WISHES YOU HAPPY HOLIDAYS Thanks to our sponsors, vendors, and supporters for participating in The Georgetowner Holiday Benefit & Bazaar SPONSORS:

BAZAAR SHOPS: Union of Angels by Cindy Bapst, For Your Home Decor, Dandelion Patch, Ultra Violet, J. McLaughlin, Haute Papier, Everardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fine Clothing, Ann Hand, Uesa Goods Vintage Clothing, L&D Events, Fifi, and Ella-Rue

And, as always, thanks to our loyal readers. None of this would be possible without you.

GMG, Inc. December 15, 2010 31

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GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

CHEVY CHASE, MARYLAND

GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

Heidi Hatfield Anne Hatfield Weir

Nancy Taylor Bubes

Kay McGrath King

William F. X. Moody Robert Hryniewicki 202-243-1620

Sun-filled East Village home in private enclave near Rose Park with elegant living spaces, sleek gourmet stainless steel kitchen with dining area, pergola-covered sunporch, 2 parking spots. 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths. $2,350,000

202-243-1634 202-243-1635

Beautiful Victorian in the historic East Village with the perfect blend of classic details and modern luxuries. 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, eat-in kitchen, double living room, a 1 bedroom, 1 bath in-law suite and parking. $2,195,000

202-256-2164

Fabulous and on best block! 5BR, 5.5BA, front porch, garage, big yard, screened porch, gourmet kitchen open to family room, luxury master bedroom with 3 walk-in closets + cathedral ceilings, 4 fininshed levels. $400,000 in recent upgrades to 2004 total renovation. $1,895,000

202-276-1235

Updated, detached period Federal in East Village with gracious principal rooms and walkout patio. 2008 new kitchen and baths. 3BR, 2.5BA including master suite with luxurious bath and balcony. Blocks to Metro. $1,875,000

SPRING VALLEY, WASHINGTON, DC

GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

DUPONT, WASHINGTON, DC

MCLEAN, VIRGINIA

A. Michael Sullivan, Jr. 202-365-9000 Jamie Peva 202-258-5050

Nancy Taylor Bubes

William F. X. Moody Robert Hryniewicki 202-243-1620

Patrick Chauvin Susan Koehler

Beautiful 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath house on private fenced property. Master suite with luxurious bath and walk-in closets. Gourmet kitchen with eat-in area. Formal living, dining and family room on main level. $1,595,000

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 3 bath + office on a quiet street in the heart of Georgetown. Features original hardwood floors throughout, a separate dining room, a spacious living room opening to a private, deep garden and patio, perfect for entertaining. $1,375,000

202-256-2164

Renovated period Federal in prime location. Topof-the-line, newly renovated kitchen and baths. 1 bedroom, 1 bath in-law suite with kitchen in addition to studio and roof terrace above the 2-car garage + 1 parking space. $1,349,000

NEW LISTING! Spacious 5 bedroom, 3 bath home nestled on a leafy cul-de-sac with expansive rooms, new kitchen and baths, first floor master bedroom, formal dining room, and enclosed garden room. $1,069,000

202-256-9595 703-967-6789

GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

RITZ RESIDENCES, WASHINGTON, DC

GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

Andrea Hatfield Heidi Hatfield

Patrick Chauvin

Nancy Taylor Bubes

Quintessential brick Georgetown row house with 2 bedrooms + study in superb location on lovely East Village block. Sunlit living room; dining room with fireplace opens to charming, very private garden. $999,000

202-243-1632 202-243-1634

Beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bath apartment at the luxurious Ritz-Residences features a private balcony, large master suite, gourmet kitchen, extraordinary closet space, parking, and all Ritz-Carlton amenities including valet parking, 24-hour concierge, doorman & porter service. $949,000

202-256-9595

Beautiful 2 bedroom, 1 bath home in the heart of Georgetown boasts exquisite details throughout including custom cabinetry, high ceilings and recessed lighting. Renovated kitchen, updated bath, separate dining room and private rear patio. $830,000

202-256-2164

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32 December 15, 2010 gmg, Inc.

Stunning 1 bedroom, 1 bath Federal with a renovated kitchen and luxurious bath, a spacious and sun-filled bedroom with a wall of closets and a rear patio perfect for entertaining. $799,000

202-256-2164