John Eric Home — October 2012

JOHNERICHOME Magazine

DC | VA | MD October 2012, Volume 6

ELECTORAL COLLEGE C OV E R

STO RY

How America Elects Our President

PLUS Hudson River Valley Electoral College DC Scoop Foodie Mixology Premium Listings Home Trends Trending

JE JOHN ERIC R E A L E S TAT E

johneric.com John Eric Home 1

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JE JOHN ERIC

™

R E A L E S TAT E

WASHINGTON | VIRGINA | MARYLAND

John Eric

Washington Fine Properties 3201 New Mexico Avenue, NW | Washington, DC 20016 P: 202.274.4668 | E: john@johneric.com | www.johneric.com

JOHNERIC

O

ctober is upon us and its arrival ushers in the cooler weather, which transforms the Washington Metro landscape. The trees and shrubs become a treasure of amazing colors and textures. As Fall arrives in our nation’s capital, the smell of backyard barbeques begins to give way to the scent

of fireplaces roaring with warmth. Cedar closets are opened and fall and winter clothes are inspected.

The World Series and football pervade the airwaves. Shorter days turn into crisp nights. And, for many Washingtonians, this is their favorite of seasons.

This being a presidential election year, no one knows this time of year better than Washingtonians. However, many are not familiar with the origins of or the reasoning behind the electoral college. So, in this issue, we feature an excellent article titled “The Electoral College”.

In our “Foodie” and “Mixology” sections, we head right into the season. For comfort food lovers, an incredible chicken pot pie recipe is featured in “Foodie”. In “Mixology”, we bring you four seasonal cocktails and some great wine recommendations.

I love to travel and Washingtonians are some of the most traveled people in the world. One of the most popular nearby getaways for our region is the Empire State. In “Travel”, we head to New York’s Hudson River Valley. It’s one the most beautiful sections of America. Not to mention, it’s stunning this time of year and one of the best places to experience fall foliage.

We also have a new section in this edition called “Trending”. “Trending” is a page that displays the current hot items that are making a buzz. I hope you enjoy this edition of John Eric Home and find the information useful. Finally, I’m a big believer in exercising our right to vote. I encourage everyone to make their voices heard on election day.

Best, John Eric Publisher & Principal

CONTENTS DON’T FORGET TO VOTE NOVEMBER 6, 2012

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WELCOME Welcome Letter from John Eric PAGE 4

PREMIUM LISTINGS John’s Current Portfolio of Listings PAGE 15

IN THE NEWS Washington DC, Arlington Montgomery County PAGE 33

ELECTORAL COLLEGE How America Elects Our President.PAGE 7

FOODIE Chicken Pot Pie PAGE 28

HOME TRENDS Riding High with Equestrian Style PAGE 38

HUDSON RIVER VALLEY The glory of Fall in the Hudson River Valley PAGE 12

MIXOLOGY Fall Cocktails PAGE 30

TRENDING NOW Trends for the Fall season PAGE 24

BUYER’S GUIDE The John Eric Group’s Homebuyer’s Guides are now available online at www.johneric.com.

Take a glimpse into Arlington’s and Washington, DC’s past and discover the Arlington and Washington of today......Learn the differences between Arlington’s urban villages and Washington’s neighborhoods and grab some fun facts along the way.

For anyone interested in buying a home in Arlington or the District, these guides are great tools in helping to understand not just the topography of Arlington and Washington but also the distinct atmospheres of their individual neighborhoods. They list important information including demographics and schools and also give the reader a true flavor of Arlington and the District.

Beautifully presented in an easy-to-read format. Sign up today to receive your online copy.

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ELECTORAL COLLEGE It’s upon us again. It occurs every four years. That season of advertisement saturation and candidates appealing for our sympathies. The non-stop news feeds and signs dotting front yards across the country. The polls and the pols. It is full of the good and the bad and all that is cherished about our democratic system. It is all about a race, which finds the winner occupying that coveted address in our city, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

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Those who “show up” to vote next month are actively taking part in a centuries old duty, discussed and debated with no less passion than the other amendments of the United States Constitution. The framework for casting ballots and the Electoral College system, overall, have always been a hotbed of controversey - since the inception of the system.

The Founding Fathers had quite a predicament on their hands when debating the presidential electoral process. The nation was comprised of thirteen states, all suspicious of a central national government. The United States contained only 4,000,000 people spread along a vast Atlantic seaboard, who were barely connected. The general consensus of the time was that political parties were “evil” and that gentlemen should not seek office - rather, the office should seek them. Therefore, they were left to ponder how to choose a president without party or national campaigns, who would not upset either the balance of power between Executive and Legislative or States and the Federal government.

Trying to pragmatically organize the needs of the nascent nation led to heated arguments at the Constiutional Convention of 1787. States weren’t in agreement. And, the Presidential voting process found them at significant odds. Some states championed a direct popular vote (as did James Madison.)

These territories, generally the larger ones, debated with those who held the belief that a lack of communication between the states would have citizens voting only for a “native son.” They would be unfamiliar with and untrusting of those from further afield. Thus, votes would be split and a winner would be doubtful. Also, the larger states had larger populations and would, therefore, decide elections. It was unfair to those with smaller populations.

The men debated the idea of appointing state legislatures to choose the President and agreed that it wouldn’t work. Neiher would a proposal which would have had Congress choosing the head of the Executive Branch. While the committee of eleven men tasked with defining the electoral process did not immediately discard a Congressional pick, at the end they did not choose it based on “fears of intrigue if the President was chosen by a small group of men who met together regularly.” Also, they shared the concern of a President who would be dependent on the legislative branch and unable to exercise independence. Eventually, chosen as the most democratic and efficient process of voting for a presidential candidate was the Electoral College.

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Most states use the “winner-takeall” system of electorals, with the exception of Maine and Nebraska.

The New England and Midwestern states choose to use “proportional representation” the Congressional District Method System - which represents each district and their individual vote.

The structure of the Electoral College can be traced to the Centurial Assembly system of the Roman Republic.

Adult, male citizens of Rome were divided into groups of 100 - centuries - and entitled to cast one vote in favor or against proposals from the Roman Senate. In the United States electoral system, states serve as Centurial groups with number of votes decided by the size of each state’s congressional delegation.

While the Founding Fathers did not pen into the Constitution the prescribed method of appointing electors, only that they must meet on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November, most states decided to nominate electors at state conventions or state meetings. That practice continues to this day. Although, there have been slight modifications to the Electoral College system of voting, the framework has remained the same since its inception.

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Currently, the Electoral College has a total of 538 electors, or those who vote to chose the President of the United States. A majority of 270 votes are required for the declation of a winner of the race. These electors represent the state’s Congressional allotment and is equal in number to its Congressional delegation, or two votes (Senate) and one per state representative. Under the 23rd Amendment, Washington D.C. was allocated 3 electors and is viewed as a state for the purpose of electoral voting.

Electors are not required by federal law to honor their pledge (i.e., the winner of their district vote) but, of course, the overwhelming majority do vote for the chosen candidate. Twenty-four states have adopted laws to punish “faithless electors” as insurance that the elector will uphold the choice of the voter. And, some states, such as Michigan will void the vote completely when an elector does not vote in accordance with the popular vote he or she represents.

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There have been times in history when a faithless elector has engaged in the process, although, it has not affected the outcome of the election. And, it is not always about the candidate. In the 2000 election, Barbara Lett-Simmons of the District chose not to vote for Al Gore, to whom she was pledged but, rather, to abstain as an act of protest against Washington’s lack of Congressional representation.

Most states use the “winner-take-all” system of electorals, with the exception of Maine and Nebraska.

The New England and Midwestern states choose to use “proportional representation” - the Congressional District Method System - which represents each district and their individual vote. In 2010, the state of Pennsylvania put forward a plan to change from winner-take-all to the Congressional District method, after five consecutive democratic wins with very small minorities state-wide. However, the plan lost support and was dropped.

The closest the electoral college has ever come to being abolished was after the 1968 election. Nixon received 301 votes to Humphrey’s 191, yet, Nixon only carried the election by 511,944 votes or less than 1% of the national total. Representative Emanuel Celler, Chairman of the United States House of Representatives Judiciary Committee, responded to public concerns by introducing House Joint Resolution 681 - a proposed amendment, which would

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have abolished the electoral college. A popular vote scheme whereby the candidate with a 40% or more majority of vote would win (with a runoff election ensuing if 40% could not be reached between the two lead candidates) was introduced to a receptive Congress. They passed it with bi-partisan support in September, 1969, and, soon after, Richard Nixon endorsed its adoption. However, the resolution fell flat in the Senate, after a never-ending filibuster, and James Eastland (D-MS), John McClellan (D-AR), Sam Ervin (D-NC), Roman Hruska (R-NE), Hiram Fong (R-HI) and Strom Thurmond (R-SC) all arguing that while the present system may have loopholes, it was still the best.

The Congressional (and national) debate over the electoral college remains a common talking point of American politics. The criticisms - the possibility of electing a minority president, the risk of “faithless electors, depression of turnout and the failure to reflect the national will - are countered by the positive attributes - it contributes to cohesiveness in the country by requiring a distribution of popular support, it enhances votes of smaller, under-represented states and it maintains a system of federal representation.

This argument has existed since the Constitutional Congress and will remain so, more than likely, for decades of future presidential elections.

thesource.

by Wolfgang Puck

the art of dining

575 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20001 O: 202.637.6100 W: wolfgangpuck.com

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HUDSON RIVER VALLEY

I

It is Autumn and with it arrives all of the comforts of the

season. Warm woolen sweaters and crisp air. Pumpkin soup and hot apple cider. Of course, one of the most anticipated events of the calendar year is when leaves transform into bright hues of red, gold and yellow, blanketing the horizon in wondrous color. Fall foliage is spectacular - and, one of the best places to enjoy it is the Hudson River Valley. Here, mountains come alive in a fiery pageant of color and breathtaking views.

But, it is not just leaves that draw crowds to this historic and remarkable region.

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The Hudson River Valley corridor runs from Albany to New York City. The Valley draws visitors from far and wide who enjoy the events and activities on offer. Whether visitors choose to visit sites such as Sleepy Hollow, made famous by Washington Irving in his tale of the Headless Horseman, or West Point, where the esteemed such as George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Ulysses S. Grant and Dwight Eisenhower once haunted, there is much to see and do in the area.

The region is home to Catskill, perhaps one of the most regaled areas in the corridor. Catskill thrives in the outdoors.

Visitors can golf on fine courses, such as The Apple Greens Golf Course, a 27-hole public golf course equipped with its own driving range, that inherently offer scenic views. Or, they can try their hand at rock climbing through Alpine Endeavors, which offers professional instruction and guided trips for both rock and ice climbing, mountaineering, snowshoeing and fly fishing. Also in the region is Bear Spring Mountain State Park, which covers over 7100 acres and is intended specifically for horseback riding, offering 24 miles of trails. But, one doesn’t have to saddle up to enjoy the park - the trails are also suited for mountain biking, hiking, snowmobiling and cross country skiing. And, Bear Mountain is a wonderful destination to enjoy Fall foliage on a hiking trail.

As is Kaaterskill Falls. These Falls are a two-drop waterfall located on the north side of Kaaterskill Clove, between the hamlets of Haines Falls and Palenville. The dual cascades total 260 feet in height, making it one of the higher waterfalls in New York, and they provide perfect photographic opportunities. The falls are also one of America’s oldest tourist attractions, and have appeared in prominent books, essays, poems and paintings of the early 19th century. Beginning with Thomas Cole’s first visit in 1825, they became an iconic subject for the painters of the Hudson River School, setting the wilderness ideal for American landscape painting.

Artists of the Hudson River School reflected three themes of America in the 19th century - discovery, exploration, and settlement. Their paintings depict the American landscape as pastoral and most canvases illustrate spaces where humans and nature coexist peacefully. Throughout the region, artists of the school painted local Hudson Valley landscapes characterized by a realistic, yet sometimes idealized portrayal of nature. This iconic artistic movement is, perhaps, the most widely recognized movement in American art worldwide and a trip to the Catskills would be incomplete without stopping at Olana, the home and studio of Frederic Church. Church was the pre-eminent artist of the School and visitors to Olana are inspired by the views that encouraged his works. Nature surrounds the Moorish-Persian styled home, which is open for tours Tuesday through Sunday.

Multiple exhibitions are generally on display.

An interesting place to lodge in the region is the Bear Mountain Inn. Built in 1915, this rustic styled inn is located at

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the base of Bear Mountain overlooking both the Hudson River and the historic Hessian Lake. Park employees constructed the Inn and its furnishings using natural materials, including chestnut, and other timber and fieldstone found in the park. Of course, the Hudson River Valley is home to a plethora of B&Bs to suit all tastes and fashions.

Throughout the Hudson Valley region, wineries dot the landscape. Many New York wines are produced in this region. Not far south of the Catskills, in New Paltz, is the Adair Winery. This winery is operated from a 200-year-old Dutch-style barn and has recently been designated an historic landmark. The cellar is on the first floor and the tasting and gift shop on the second. Nearly all of the wines are produced from locally grown grapes, such as Seyval Blanc, Foch, Ravat and Leon Millot.

CHOCK-A-BLOCK FULL OF ACTIVITIES AND DIVERSE SCENERY, IT IMBIBES A VISITOR WITH ALL THAT IS NOTEWORTHY OF THE SEASON.

And, nearby, is the Rivendell Winery. Since 1987, this establishment has been one of the most visited wineries in the Hudson Valley. Founded by the Ransom Family, Rivendell wines have attracted the attention of wine critics and aficionados, producing a range of popular wines under the Libertyville Cellars label. It is located on 55 scenic acres and is a popular destination for wine tourists who enjoy an enclosed tasting porch with panoramic views and fireplace.

Moving further south along the corridor, Hastings-on-Hudson calls for attention.

If not for the views of the Manhattan skyline, it is difficult to believe that this village is a mere half hour train ride to Grand Central Station. Its main street illustrates the blending of old and new. In 2008, the street received the distinction of Best Main Street

by Westchester Magazine.

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One interesting tour available in Hastings-on-Hudson is The Museum in the Streets. It is a self-guided, walking tour of 32 historic sites complete with signs describing significance and at least one historical photo of the site from by-gone days. The village has two centrally located maps to assist on the tour and brochures are available in many shops to lead visitors along the route. As visitors meander through streets, a host of boutiques, such as Hastings Stationary, Bee Charmed gift shop, Corset Tree and Toy Cottage provide opportunities to shop along the way. And, those who feel a bit peckish should stop at Harveston-Hudson. This Tuscan farmhouse features a Mediterranean inspired menu. All vegetables are grown on the grounds and dining here is a treat.

Also, located in the Lower Hudson Valley is the Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture. This farm, restaurant and education center is located in the Pocatino Hills at Sleepy Hollow. Visitors can enjoy gardens, greenhouses and walking trails after dining at its cafe or restaurant. The center also holds talks and tours, such as Backyard: Fruit for Small Gardens, which teaches growing techniques needed to reap from spaces as small as a balcony to as “large� as a small suburban yard.

The Hudson River Valley is an interesting and breathtaking area to visit - especially during the Autumn season. Chock-ablock full of activities and diverse scenery, it imbibes a visitor with all that is noteworthy of the season. For more information on lodging, restaurants and activities in the Hudson Valley, please visit www.travelhudsonvalley.org

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$1,735,000

1201 N NASH STREET, #PH 2 Arlington, Virginia

This pristine condo combines classical finishes with modern conveniences in an open floor plan with many custom upgrades. The spacious, top floor unit faces east and is filled with light in the day and has mesmerizing, sparkling city views at night. The two bedrooms with den/library, two-and-a-half baths floor plan with its state-ofthe art lighting and chef’s kitchen is perfect for entertaining. The generous room sizes, high ceilings, wide crown molding, marble and hardwood floors throughout, built-in sound system, spacious closets as well as the many building amenities grant comfortable living.

The luxurious Residences at Memorial Overlook feature the finest materials and superior attention to detail. There is an immediate feeling of entering someone’s home when guests are greeted by friendly and accommodating staff. A well equipped Fitness Center with two televisions is open 24 hours, and the large, attractive Club Room with kitchen adds convenience for owners and their guests. This penthouse unit also comes with two garage spaces and two good sized storage spaces. The feeling of privacy while having close access to downtown Washington, the splendid views and the elegantly appointed penthouse unit with balcony/terrace make this a stunning offering.

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$795,000 UNDER CONTRACT

Van Buren Street Arlington, Virginia

The first level of this home features a living room and separate dining room with hardwood floors and crown molding. The living room is bathed in natural light from large framed windows. Moving into the kitchen, the open floor plan allows your guests to be part of the action as your prepare an exceptional meal in this home’s updated kitchen.

The gourmet kitchen features lovely cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and a breakfast nook. Off the kitchen is a spacious family room with gas fireplace and main level powder room.

Moving upstairs to the second floor, one enters the master suite with its separate sleeping and sitting areas. This room possesses tall ceilings, large windows which provide abundant natural light, a gas fireplace, recessed lighting, two spacious walkin closets and the home’s laundry room. This master suite is both spacious and intimate. This master suite also features an expansive master bath with dual sinks, a large soaking tub, a separate, walk-in shower, water closet and an abundance of storage.

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$855,000 SOLD

1503 E North Colonial Terrace Arlington, Virginia

This lovely townhome has a wonderful presence and welcomes you through a European style courtyard; the exquisite brickwork, large proportioned windows and well-manicured grounds provide a warm welcome to everyone who enters.

Upon entering this residence, one encounters a foyer laid with beautiful marble that immediately soothes the eye. ‘Stylish, contemporary and elegant’ are but several of the words one would use to describe this exquisite property. The first level of this home features a living room and dining room combination with hardwood floors and gas fireplace. The living room is bathed in natural light from large framed windows.

Moving into the kitchen, the open floor plan allows your guests to be part of the action as your prepare an exceptional meal in this home’s renovated kitchen.

The gourmet kitchen features a Kenmore Pro dual fuel gas range and oven that will bring out the cook in anyone. Custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, high-end fixtures, a wine rack and breakfast nook make this room complete. Off the kitchen is a lovely back patio perfect for grilling, outdoor living and entertaining. The first level also features an updated half bath.

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$424,900 SOLD

2100 LEE HWY #506 Arlington, Virginia

The words “Casual and Contemporary” easily describe the feeling and vibe of this lovely condo. Located in the sought-after Courthouse section of North Arlington, this stylish and contemporary home has generous living space and a tranquil feeling.

Upon entering the front door, one can’t help but be impressed by this space. The neutral color palette with dark hardwood floors, the open floor plan and a wall of windows streaming with natural light invite and welcome you. The spacious living room allows you to entertain in style.

This lovely home features a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances, a large counter with space for three bar stools and an abundance of cabinet space. This space is able to accommodate both small intimate dinners and larger parties in the lovely separate dining room.

This home also features two spacious bedrooms with a nice amount of closet space.

The full bath has been updated and features a large vanity, custom framed mirror and a shower/tub combination. There is also a half bath that has been updated.

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$530,000 SOLD

1633 Colonial Terrace North #406

BALCONY

Arlington, Virginia

This residence features exceptional details throughout, including hardwood floors, high ceilings, upgraded lighting, walls of windows, granite countertops, ceramic tile, new carpet and has been freshly painted.

LIVING ROOM 17' X 15'3" BATH

LIN DN

UTILITY

DINING AREA 11'7" X 6'

W.I.C.

CLOSET

This contemporary loft condo is located in sought-after Rosslyn in North Arlington, positioned on the hill overlooking the banks of the Potomac River and across from Georgetown. This lovely home offers peaceful, luxurious living within a heartbeat of DC attractions. The community is conveniently located within walking distance to the Rosslyn Metro and Georgetown shopping and provides easy access to the restaurants of Rosslyn, Courthouse, Clarendon, major highways, and Reagan National Airport.

MASTER BEDROOM 13'9" X 12'4"

DW

KITCHEN 10' X 7'11"

BATH

W.I.C.

REF

BEDROOM 2 11'3" X 10'5"

UP

This home features two bedrooms, two and one half baths, a lovely deck and two parking spaces. A gourmet kitchen is featured in this home with a large granite countertop perfect for barstools. The open floor plan provides the perfect environment for living and entertaining in style.

FOYER P.R.

MAIN LEVEL

UPPER LEVEL

8'9" CEILING

8' CEILING

1633 COLONIAL TERRACE NORTH, #406, ARLINGTON, VA Š2012 J. ERIC

ALL ILLUSTRATIONS AND DIMENSIONS ARE APPROXIMATE AND MAY VARY FROM ACTUAL STRUCTURE. DIMENSIONS HAVE BEEN ROUNDED. ALL INFORMATION DEEMED RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTEED. WWW.INTERIORFOOTPRINTS.COM

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$359,000

851 Glebe Rd. Arlington, Virginia

A sophisticated urban lifestyle can be found in this light-filled home in the sought- after Continental in the urban village of Ballston. This unit has it all: a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, ample storage space, black appliances, an upgraded lighting package, designer paint colors, lovely open floor plan, a full size stackable washer & dryer, parking, blinds and custom drapes.

The Continental is a luxury building with a full service concierge, state of the art fitness center, movie theater, club room, business center and roof top pool.

Located in the heart of the action, this unit provides the best in urban living.

You are minutes from the Metro, restaurants, shops and the vibrant city life of the Ballston-Rosslyn Corridor.

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$530,000 SOLD

6302 Massachusetts Avenue Bethesda, Maryland

Located in Glen Echo Heights, this deceptively spacious brick Colonial perfectly blends traditional charm and thoughtful renovations for comfortable living and gracious entertaining. The MAIN LEVEL features an inviting ENTRY HALL with coat closet and oak staircase. Enjoy an open CHEF’S KITCHEN ideal for serious cooks or casual entertainers that has a Viking stainless steel Professional® refrigerator, six-burner Wolf gas range, Dacor exhaust range hood, KitchenAid microwave and Bosch dishwasher, granite counters and island with counter seating, undermount Shaw’s porcelain farm sink, recessed lights, and plentiful custom cabinetry with creamy finish and opened to BREAKFAST AREA with abundant built-in storage. The spacious DINING ROOM offers recessed lights, attractive and versatile built-ins, display ledge, and under-stair storage closet. Proximity to the step-down FAMILY ROOM gives this level exceptional flow and has a large picture window, fireplace, built-in shelves and cabinets, and bench seating with storage.

A nicely appointed POWDER ROOM and LAUNDRY AREA off Kitchen with Bosch front-loading washer and dryer, double door pantry, broom closet and access to side yard complete the offerings of this level.

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Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients

4 cups chicken broth 1 bouillon cube 1 stick of butter 1 yellow onion, finely chopped 2 large carrots cut in ½ inch rounds, cut in half 2 celery stalks, cut in ½ pieces 1 cup of shitake (or favorite) mushrooms, cut in bite size pieces.

2 cloves garlic, chopped fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 cup heavy cream 3 tablespoons white wine 1 3-pound rotisserie chicken, shredded 1 (7-ounce) bag frozen pearl onions 1 (9-ounce) box frozen peas 2 (9-ounce) packages store-bought rolled out pie dough 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water

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Directions Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. In a large saucepan heat chicken broth and bouillon cube over medium heat until hot.

In a large sautĂŠ pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add yellow onion, carrots, celery, mushrooms and garlic, and saute until tender. Season with salt and pepper. Add the flour and stir together until it becomes pasty and lump-free, about 2 minutes. Stir in the hot broth, heavy cream, white wine, chicken and frozen onions and peas. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.

With a ladle, fill 6 ovenproof ramekins (approximately 12 oz. capacity) or bowls with the filling. Place on baking sheet.

Sprinkle flour on countertop. Roll out dough an extra inch. Using a biscuit round or mold, cut out dough to cover the tops of the ovenproof bowls/ramekins, with about 1/2-inch hangover. Crimp the dough over the edge of the ramekin. Brush with the egg wash and make 4 small slits on the top. Sprinkle with kosher salt and place on a baking sheet.

Bake for 35 minutes. Remove from the oven and serve.

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Fall

Rob Roy White Russian French 75 Cocktail Southern Comfort Manhattan 26

| September 2012

COCKTAILS

WHITE Russian 1 ½ ox vodka ¾ oz Kahlua 2 oz half and half or light cream

PREPARATION 1. Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir.

2. Using a cocktail strainer, pour into a rocks glass filled with ice.

FRENCH 75 Cocktail ½ oz lemon juice 1 oz gin ½ oz Cointreau Champagne

ROB Roy 1 ½ oz Scotch ¼ sweet vermouth Angostura bitters to taste Maraschino cherry for garnish

PREPARATION 1. Combine all ingredients except Champagne into a cocktail shaker over ice and shake well.

2. Strain into a chilled Champagne flute.

Add the Champagne.

PREPARATION 1. Pour the ingredients into a mixing glass with ice and stir well.

2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Garnish with a cherry.

This drink may also be served in an old fashioned glass on ice. For a dry Rob Roy, substitute dry vermouth for the sweet vermouth and garnish with a lemon twist. For a perfect Rob Roy, use 1/4 oz each of sweet and dry vermouth and garnish with a lemon twist.

Southern Comfort Manhattan ½ oz dry vermouth 2 oz Southern Comfort 1 twist of lemon

PREPARATION 1. Combine vermouth and Southern Comfort into shaker over ice.

2. Shake and strain into rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with lemon twist

John Eric Home 27

GREGGBUSCH Vice President First Savings Mortgage Corporation

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www.greggbusch.com

Information is accurate as of the date of printing and is subject to change without notice. First Savings Mortgage Corporation is licensed by the Virginia State Corporation Commission (License #MC-276).

> The Hill is Home and Pink Jams are teaming up on Wednesday, October 10, from 6-10 pm for a happy hour at Lavagna (539 8th Street) to raise money in the fight against breast cancer. Lavagna will donate 25% of their proceeds to Pink Jams. If you join the happy hour in the upstairs bar, you will be treated to special discounts on wine, cocktails and appetizers. > Members of the National Symphony Orchestra will perform in U Street, Shaw, Logan Circle, and around Howard University as part of the NSO’s free community engagement activities that will run Jan. 8-14.

DC SCOOP Washington DC > A Toki Underground representative sent word to Washingtonian that the kitchen will be wrapping up at midnight on Friday and Saturday and closing entirely on Sunday. Toki Underground’s new hours are Monday through Wednesday 5 to 10 PM, Thursday 5 to 11, Friday and Saturday 5 to midnight. > A drone that went missing over Adams Morgan was found and returned to its owner, while landing a Maryland-based contractor a $250 reward. Michael Crosby, an HVAC specialist, found the drone—a remote-controlled quadcopter—last Wednesday on the roof of the Camden Roosevelt, a building located on 16th Street between Florida Avenue and V Street, just south of Meridian Hill Park. The drone had been there for over a week, having fallen out

of the sky on September 9 after a gust of wind caught it as owner Adam Eidinger flew it over Adams Morgan Day. (dcist) > The Northeast Library (330 7th Street NE) closed to undergo a massive $10 million historic renovation. > Even though Metro is trying to make it easier for all riders to buy and use SmarTrip cards, the Post reports that vending machines that were supposed to appear in every station have been delayed because they do not comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The vending machines do not have audio functions and Braille as they’re supposed to, pushing back their installation in some stations and leaving them covered up and unusable in others.

> The D.C. Office of Human Rights came down on The Pug because it comically named a drink after something Councilmember Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) had said. The sign, advertising the “Marion Barry Dirty Asian Summer Punch,” was removed Friday after a city agency threatened to take the owner before the D.C. Commission on Human Rights. > At the Folger’s 24th annual PEN/Faulkner awards dinner, “resilience” was the theme. During the cocktail hour, some guests expressed that they thought the theme was apt on the eve of the 9/11 anniversary. > The ninth annual DC Shorts Film Festival began on September 6th and showcased 140 films from 27 nations throughout the 11-day event. It covered a plethora of genres, styles and subjects in less than 20 minutes.

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> The annual Rosslyn Jazz Festival was held at Gateway Park. The musical lineup included groups and artists like Afro Blue, Rene Marie, Don Byron and Joshua Redman. > Arlington is attracting a growing number of start-up and tech companies, and the co-owner of a new coworking space in Rosslyn is placing a big bet on that trend continuing. Raymond Rahbar, is a founder of UberOffices, a shared office space located on one floor of a high-rise at 1400 Key Boulevard. The office opened in July and already a number of young companies now call home.

DC SCOOP Arlington > Arlington County declared Sept.

23rd-29th as “Be Prepared Week.”

Arlington officials encouraged residents and businesses ”to do something toward preparedness” — like downloading the “Arlington Prepares” smartphone app or putting together a “go bag” — during the week. The Arlington Office of Emergency Management is also asking people to sign an online “preparedness pledge.” > Customers at the Whole Foods store in Clarendon (2700 Wilson Blvd) can now sit back and enjoy a coffee, or something a little stronger, at the newly opened “Arlington Pub.” The venue is on the second level of the store, but customers may also bring their beverage purchases downstairs while they shop.

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> Following a year of renovations, the David M. Brown Planetarium (1426 N. Quincy Street) unveiled its upgrades during a grand reopening celebration weekend.

Events took place throughout the weekend of September 28-30, beginning with a ribbon cutting on Friday (September 28) at 10:00 a.m. > Bayou Bakery’s (1515 N. Courthouse Road) “Muff-a-Lotta” sandwich has been named one of the 20 best sandwiches in the country by Food & Wine magazine. The Muff-a-Lotta features “a briny garlic-andoregano-laced olive salad, salami, mortadella, smoked ham and aged provolone in a sesameseed-studded toasted Italian roll.”

> Grateful Red (2727 Wilson Blvd) wine shop held its official grand opening celebration in midSeptember. > The county recently painted certain stretches of bicycle lanes green. Five areas feature the green markings including Veitch Street at Clarendon and Wilson Blvds, Military Road at Nelly Custis Drive and S. Joyce Street near Pentagon Row. Two others should be finished soon, and an additional five are expected by the end of the year.

bash to celebrate all that’s been done in Montgomery County over the past 30 years. The Taste of MoCo has been included and will feature restaurants Blackfinn, Buffalo Wild Wings, La Tasca, The Melting Pot, Oro Pomodoro and local business Mike & Cookies has agreed to participate.

DC SCOOP Montgomery County > Montgomery County students set a record for SAT scores last year, boosting their performance by 14 points. But, overall scores stagnated in the District, where students have showed significant gains on the math portion of the exam but have failed to improve on the reading and writing tests.

Oak, but will rewrite and resubmit a new plan, President Joyce Newmyer announced Tuesday.

The Takoma Park hospital wants to build a state-of-the-art, 249-bed hospital in White Oak on a plot adjacent to the Food and Drug Administration’s headquarters.

> Bethesda Row is hosting an Oktoberfest celebration, featuring 15 breweries; food from Mon Ami Gabi, Luke’s Lobster, Mussel Bar, Redwood, and more. It features live music all day, a pie eating contest and more. Proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Tickets ($22 regular, $88 VIP) are available through LivingSocial.

> In honor of National Cheeseburger Day on Tuesday, Bethesda’s BGR: The Burger Joint held a competition challenging eight to 10 hungry souls to eat as many cheeseburger sliders as their stomachs could handle in a 10-minute timeframe. Contestants also had a chance to qualify for the national finals, which will be held in Washington, DC on National Hamburger Day in May.

> Washington Adventist Hospital has withdrawn its request to build a 48-acre campus in White

> Habitat for Humanity will take over the Rooftop at Rockville Town Center on Oct. 4 for an evening

> The Washington region has grown significantly more diverse over the years, so much so that three towns in the suburbs around the city have ranked as some of the country’s most diverse, reports the Post. According to a study by two sociologists, Lorton, Germantown and Glenmont rank behind only three towns in California in the list of the top 25 most diverse places in the country. The driving factors for the increasing diversity include the role of the government as a driver for employment and growing immigrant populations. > BethesdaNow.com has officially launched. It provides up-to-theminute, original news coverage for Bethesda and Chevy Chase, Maryland and seek to report on important community issues, interesting local stories, and breaking news that impacts the daily lives of those who live and work in the area. > Westfield Montgomery Mall and more than 50 retailers hosted an event that celebrates fashion in New York and 100 other cities across the United States and was a collaboration between American Vogue, the Council of Fashion Designers of America, NYC & Company, and the City of New York.

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Just like our clothes change with the seasons, so should our home’s style.

Equestrian-inspired style is riding high this Fall, with warm colors and cozy textures. Why not bring the look inside and warm up your home décor with this season’s hottest trend?

John Eric Home 35

E 36

| September 2012

questrian style can range from English Country to Kentucky Derby, but one thing is for certain - this classic look has stood the test of time. A color palette of warm hues immediately brings you out of summer and into fall. Pops of crimson with shades of green, vivid plums, charcoal grays, and chocolate browns all complement each other in an elegant way without feeling melancholy.

Rooms need balance and proportion, and with all of these darker hues, a room can start to feel too heavy and masculine. Using pops of bright white creates a clean crisp look. Soften up your space by incorporating light wool or knit throws in shades of creams, white, and camel. Antiqued silver and brass elements add an enchanting shimmering touch.

Inspired by saddles and riding boots, stitched leathers in black and brown hues are a great way to add equestrian touches to your home. Displaying leather bound books and old family photo albums on bookcases and tables lend a personalized touch. Antiquing is a perfect way to find equestrian elements to adorn your home. Riding crops, horse bits, and spurs are particularly interesting display pieces. While vintage touches add character and charm, many home decor stores are catering to the trend with modern pieces. Silver trophy replicas, framed winners ribbons, and art featuring well coiffed show horses are popping up everywhere from Pottery Barn to Target. Larger items like saddles, an old pair of boots, and even helmets can make great statement pieces if staged appropriately. Have fun and try out different uses for items. Try using an old saddle blanket as a rug or turning trophy cups into unique vases by filling them with fresh flower arrangements. The right balance of accessories work well in any home from a country cottage to a New York City loft.

Before

Just like fashion, home dĂŠcor changes with the seasons. Be inspired by your personal style and have fun bringing your favorite fashion trends into your home!

TRENDING Fashionistas are all about studs right now. And, not of the male variety. Shoe lines this Fall are heavy on studs and jewels...

(Style.com)

1. Valentino studded leather sandals, $995; 2. Azzedine Alaïa crystal-embellished suede sandals, $2,450; 3. Alexander McQueen lace-up leather wedge sandals, $6,195 1. Tom Ford black satin jewel-heel sandal, $1,180; 2. Charlotte Olympia red suede Anastasia sandal, $1,565; 3. Jimmy Choo Victoria leopard-print ponyskin pump, $875; 4. Fendi brown suede lace-up sandal with fur, $1,180; 5. Giuseppe Zanotti pink fur spike sandal, $995; 6. Miu Miu suede peep-toe pump with glitter sole, $690; 7. Nicholas Kirkwood teal suede pump, $950; 8. Christian Louboutin black suede pump with pink fur, $1,195 It is here - the Iphone 5 has taken the world by storm...

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