Washington Life Magazine - March 2011

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CONTENTS

36

MARCH 2011

WASHINGTON SOCIAL DIARY

EDITOR'S LETTER..........................................................

AROUND TOWN Diplomats in Palm Beach...................

FYIDC

OVER THE MOON A winter respite...............................

INSIDER'S GUIDE Spa week, galleries, festivals and more SOCIAL CALENDAR Spring soirées........................

WL-SPONSORED EVENTS

BOOKSHELF Cafe Society, Russian jewels ..................

Luke's Wings Benefit .................................................

WHO'S NEXT Teach for America's Emily Barton ...........

Washington Winter Show Preview Night ............................. Shen Yun Opening Night ............................................

POLLYWOOD

Washington National Opera Ladies Luncheon .......................

HOLLYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC Chris Lee,

Washington National Opera's Midwinter Fiesta ................

Nikki Schwab and Ron Reagan.................................... BET Honors and After Party .............................................. Book Party for Ron Reagan's "My Father at 100" ............... Book Party for Lorraine Wallace's "Mr. Sunday's Soups" .......

CAUSE CELEB Lawrence Bender on nuclear

nonproliferation .......................................................

DIPLOMATIC DANCE Awards and Heroic Feats ....... POWER COUPLE Jeffrey Bader and Rohini Talalla ...... INSIDE SUNDANCE Top film picks and the best of Park City's nightlife ...................................................................

The 61st Annual Tartan Ball .............................................. Year Up Gala ......................................................... Jazz & Dinner at the Embassy of Singapore .........................

WL-EXCLUSIVE EVENTS Book Party for Ron Reagan's "My Father at 100" ............... Book Party for Lorraine Wallace's "Mr. Sunday's Soups" ........ Elle/Louis Vuitton honor Washington Women .................... Put on the Gloves Benefiting the Trevor Project .................. International Red Cross Ball ...............................................

POINT OF VIEW Prince Turki Al-Faisal on"Arabia

3D" .....................................................................

Alvin Ailey Gala ............................................................... WPAS Honors Renée Fleming. ...........................................

26 56

SPECIAL FEATURE

National Alliance on Mental Illness Gala .............................

WL FASHION Celebrating Washington fashion ................

Canaletto Dinner at Villa Firenze. ..........................................

NY FASHION WEEK A Washington perspective ............

Fair Chance Butterfly Bash .................................................

GLITTERATI New jewelry classics .............................. SHADOW PLAY Blur the lines between structure and flow . Elle/Louis Vuitton honor Washington Women .................... Put on the Gloves Benefiting the Trevor Project .................. Luke's Wings Benefit .................................................

HOME LIFE INSIDE HOMES A tour of Skip and Debbie Singleton's historic home ............................................................................ RE NEWS Power moves....................................................... OPEN HOUSE Metropolitan mansions ............................. MY WASHINGTON Lynda Carter's favorite places........

LIFESTYLES LUXURY TRAVEL Kenya adventure .........................

HOTEL WATCH California Dreamin' ........................... THE DISH Richard Sandoval's ceviche favorites ...............

FROM TOP LEFT Inside the Sundance Film Festival; Gabrielle Union at the BET Honors (Photo by Tony Powell); "Shadow Play," a balanced contrast in fashion (Photo by Tim Coburn).

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WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nancy Reynolds Bagley EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Michael M. Clements SENIOR EDITOR

MANAGING EDITOR

Kevin Chaffee

Anne H. Kim ASSISTANT EDITOR

Alison McLaughlin

COLUMNISTS

Janet Donovan,Vicky Moon, Stacey Grazier Pfarr, Gail Scott and Donna Shor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Prince Turki Al-Faisal, Jody Arlington, Stefanie Ball, Lawrence Bender, Chuck Conconi, Nichole Devolites, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Alexa McMahon, Sherry Moeller and Kiki Ryan CREATIVE DIRECTOR

J.C. Suarès GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mary Endres CONTRIBUTING DESIGNERS

Erika Bernetich and Laura Roth CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joseph Allen, Jerritt Clark,Tim Coburn, Alfredo Flores, Michael J. Gerrior,Tony Powell,Tim Rockwell, Kyle Samperton, Pencer Strager and Anchyi Wei

PUBLISHER & CEO

Soroush Richard Shehabi ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

John H. Arundel SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Melinda Beatty and Alexandra Thomas ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Lindsey O’Neill and Kristen Thorne BOOKKEEPER

Trina Hodges WEB TECHNOLOGIES DEVELOPMENT

Inviting and intriguing, richly appointed and steeped

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LEGAL

INTERNS

Gabbie Baker, Katherine Coleman, Joseph Corcoran, Roshan Farazad, Melissa Gaied, Melissa Henderson, Lauren Mayer, Sheila Mulhern, Sara Murlai, Katherine Pena, Grace Romanausky, Christina Salek-Raham and Daisy Soloway FOUNDER

Vicki Bagley CHAIRMAN, EXECUTIVE BOARD

Gerry Byrne Washington Life magazine publishes ten times a year. Issues are distributed in February, March, April, May, June, July/August, September, November, and December and are hand-delivered on a rotating basis to over 150,000 homes throughout D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland. Additional copies are available at various upscale retailers, hotels, select newstands, and Whole Foods stores in the area. For a complete listing, please consult our website at www.washingtonlife.com. You can also subscribe online at www.washingtonlife.com or send a check for $79.95 (one year) to: Washington Life Magazine, 2301 Tracy Place NW, Washington D.C., 20008. BPA audited. Email us at info@washingtonlife.com with press releases, tips, and editorial comments. Copyright ©2011 by Washington Life. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial content or photos in any manner without permission is strictly prohibited. Printed in the United States. We will not be responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.


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EDITOR’S LETTER

We Wear It Well

W

hen it comes to mixing work and lifestyle, it’s hard to beat Washington in national rankings. We’re the best-read city, one of the fittest, the best for tele-working … the list goes on. When it comes to “style,” however, the capital often gets dismal marks. This is unfortunate. Local residents may not look as though they just walked off a runway in New York, Paris or Milan, but they do know and appreciate fashion. Otherwise the world’s top designers wouldn’t be coming here on a regular basis to show – and sell – their latest collections. We are pleased to celebrate our penchant for panache in our special fashion issue. Last year, we shined a spotlight on stylish Washingtonians. This year, we take stock of how well Washingtonians wore the trends on the party circuit.We also spent a few busy days exploring New York Fashion Week. See our take on the runway shows inside. For this issue, we also traveled. We started Andre A d B Balazs, l myself lf our journey out west in Park City, Utah, and Chelsea Handler where we mingled with the Pollywood set at the Florence and on and off the slopes at the Sundance Film the Machine show at Sundance’s Bing Festival.You’ll appreciate our coverage of this Lounge (Despite how it storied gathering and our correspondents’ looks, Chelsea’s not an dispatches on the top films and filmmakers amazon, she’s groovin’ as well as the celebrity scene. Our intrepid on a high counter). reporters also made it to the balmy shores of Palm Beach to attend the International Red Cross Ball, the country’s last remaining “white-tie-and-tiara” social event. Beyond our own borders, we also take you to Kenya where that country’s young population is changing the way we view Africa. Our features include another in our series of profiles of Obama Administration heavyweights. This time Jeffrey Bader, the President’s National Security Council point man on China, discusses the rivalry between the two major powers. It is well worth a look.

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And don’t miss Home Life, which takes us into the historic residence of Skip and Debbie Singleton, who have organized this year’s D.C. Design House to raise funds for Children’s National Medical Center. Coverage of the social scene continues with a look at Washington National Opera’s Midwinter Fiesta, the Washington Winter Show’s opening night gala, Alvin Ailey gala and more. There’s still more to come as spring gets underway. We’re looking forward to warmer weather, not to mention all the top events on our calendar.We hope to see you at the Cherry Blossom Festival Pink-Tie party, the Kennedy Center’s Spring Gala, Vital Voices’ Global Leadership Awards, the Alzheimers Gala, the Bachelors and Spinsters Ball and many more.

Nancy R. Bagley Editor in Chief Readers wishing to contact Nancy Bagley can email her at editorial@washingtonlife.com

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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FYIDC The Insider’s Guide to Washington D﹒C﹒

Get Fit

GIRLPOWER With the weather warming up, there’s no better time to make good on those New Year’s resolutions to get fit (it’s already March, after all!). Capitol Hill Martial Arts & Fitness Academy makes it easy by offering a mix of martial arts and intense cardio in a safe, female-only environment that focuses on improving self confidence and getting in shape. Don’t expect any frills at this dojo-inspired workout facility; it’s all about results. For more information, visit www.capitolhillmartialarts.com.

CAPITAL WINE FESTIVAL

District Deals

SPA WEEK D C While some may look to see if a corpulent Pennsylvania groundhog signals the end of winter, some of us look to Spa Week – seven days at the beginning of spring that have us emerging from our winter layers to begin a rejuvenation process. Starting March 14, you can indulge in some of Washington’s best spa treatments for just $50. Book soon, as appointments go fast. For more information, visit www.spaweek.com.

Whoopie Pies

Cupcakes

Sunday brunch with the girls

Sunday football with the guys

iPhones for all! (Is Verizon the one for you?)

The exclusive iPhone

Bachelor Brad Womack chooses a wife (we hope!) on the March 14th season finale of “The Bachelor.”

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Twenty-two years ago, renowned chef Daniel Bruce realized his passion for pairing food and wine by launching the prestigious Boston Wine Festival at the Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf. In 2010, the New England native expanded the intimate dinners to Washington, D.C.The Fairfax Hotel’s Jockey Club at Embassy Row hosts the second annual Capital Wine Festival with wines from California’s Napa Valley, Oregon and Italy paired with chef Ralf Hoffmann’s culinary creations. Only three exclusive dinners remain in March, so reserve soon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.capitalwinefestival.com.

Bachelor Brad Womack can’t find a soul mate and rejects both his options (like he did in season 11).

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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HELA SPA PHOTO COURTE SY HELA SPA . PHOTO: BRAD WOMACK COURTS EY BLOGS.KNOXNEWS .COM. WINE GLASSCOURTSEY WALLPAPER-S.ORG. WHOOPIE PIE S COURTSEY SWEETPEASKITCHEN.COM. I STO C KP H OTO.CO M

Foodies Only



FYIDC | THE INSIDER’S GUIDE

Cultural Connection

ALL ITALIA

DC-ology

NATIONAL BLOSSOMS Get ready to bask in the rosy glow of The National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the 99th anniversary of Japan’s famous floral gift. Festivities kick off on March 23 with the PinkTie Party and continue with many free family-friendly activities throughout the week at the National Building Museum.The celebration carries on until April 10 with paddle boat rides, a youth art show at Union Station and live music from a diverse lineup of musicians, including Nen Daiko Taiko Drum Ensemble and the Washington Showstoppers Community Marching Band. Free, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., National Building Museum, 401 F Street NW. For more information, visit www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

Social Media

THE OH-SO FABULOUS LIFE The LGBT community has a new way to navigate U.S. cities through Fab.com. The social media networking site helps members of the gay community find the best in dining, bars, nightlife, travel and more through rankings, reviews and insider information.

Classic Moves

PHILLIPS MUSIC SERIES Yevgeny Kutik is said to possess a “dark, brooding intensity” that belies the violinist’s 24 years and has earned him accolades from European and American critics. Experience the sought-after musician’s virtuosity first hand at the Phillips Collection’s Sunday Music series, where he will perform selections from Shostakovich, Ravel and Penderecki. March 13, www.phillipscollection.org.

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Art Watch

WIRED Artist Alexander Calder turned the concept of portraiture on its head with deceptively simple and whimsical wire renditions of famous figures. The National Gallery of Art highlights the work of the seminal 20th century sculptor in a new exhibit, “Calder’s Portraits: A New Language,” alongside drawings, illustrations and caricatures by artist-illustrators. Guest curated by Barbara Zabel. March 11 through August 14, www.npg.si.edu.

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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M E R C H A N T O F V E N I C E P H OTO BY SCOT T S U C H M A N . N AT I O N A L C H E R RY B LOS SO M F E S T I VA L P H OTO C O U RT E SY D OW N TOW N D C . Y E VG E N Y K U T I K P H OTO C O U RT E SY Y E VG E N Y KU T I K . A L E X A N D E R CA L D E R .

Forgo that expensive airplane ticket to Italy and experience the next best thing – La Dolce D.C. Timed in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of Italy’s reunification, all of Washington will be replete with Italian culture from March 1 through July 31. Theater-lovers can experience the thrill of “The Merchant of Venice” at the Shakespeare Theatre and view the National Gallery of Art’s exhibit, “Views of Venice: Canaletto and His Rivals,” through May 30. And don’t forget the food! Look for chef Fabio Trabocchi’s newest venture, Fiola, and “Top Chef ” Mike Isabella’s Graffiato to open in the spring. For more events, visit www.destinationdc.com.



FYIDC | SOCIAL CALENDAR

Visit washingtonlife.com’s online calendar for information about local benefits and galas. You can post your event online, where it will be considered for our print edition and annual Balls and Galas Directory.

MARCH

01

ST. JUDE GOURMET GALA: MARDI GRAS FOR THE KIDS! Who says Mardi Gras is only for the New Orleans crowd? This event gathers many of Washington’s most acclaimed restaurateurs who create a wonderful carnival event designed to raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. National Building Museum; 5:30-9:30 p.m.; $350; business casual; contact Jeanie Torchio, 703-351-5171, jeanie.torchio@stjude.org.

8-10

CARE NATIONAL CONFERENCE AND CELEBRATION Celebrate the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day and CARE’s 65th anniversary. Events include a two-day conference, where hundreds of CARE advocates bring their message of ending global poverty to Capitol Hill. Keynote speakers such as Laura Bush and Melinda Gates are scheduled to appear. The Washington Hilton; $800 per person, $1,500 per couple; business; contact Shira Lawrence, 202-5952837, slawrence@care.org.

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LATINO STUDENT FUND GALA Complete with music, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, this gala will have you doing the salsa and the merengue in celebration of the Latino Student Fund. Many community, diplomatic and political leaders are expected to attend. Organization of American States; $250, cocktail reception and dinner, $125, cocktail reception only; business; contact Maria Fernanda Borja, 202244-3438, mfborja@latinostudentfund.org.

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LEUKEMIA BALL Traditionally one of the city’s larger blacktie events, this always-elegant evening begins with a cocktail reception, followed by a silent auction, dinner, live entertainment and a luxury raffle. We hear this year’s prize is a new

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Mercedes-Benz! Walter E. Washington Convention Center; 6 p.m.; $1,000, table sponsorships starting at $10,000; black-tie; contact Kelly Kent, 703-3992938, kelly.kent@Ils.org.

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NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL’S 5TH ANNUAL PINK TIE PARTY

“Eat, Drink, and be Cherry” at Washington’s must-attend party of the spring season. Indulge in cherry-inspired dishes and cocktails, compliments of 25 top area restaurants and chefs. Celebrity chef Richard Sandoval hosts a fascinating Paige Speyer and Mary Katherine Stinson at 2010’s Pink Tie Party. silent auction with items (Photo by Kyle Samperton) from entertainment, high-end retailers and museums, to name a few. All proceeds benefit The National Cherry ALZHEIMER’S Blossom Festival Inc., an organization dedicated ASSOCIATION GALA to promoting educational initiatives that enhance Over 750 philanthropic, our environment and build spirit within the corporate, social and political leaders attend community. The Mayflower Renaissance Hotel; 7- this moving event aimed at building awareness 10 p.m. with VIP experience beginning at 6:30 p.m.; of Alzheimer’s disease as a national medical $150, $250 for VIP experience; “pink tie” cocktail; priority. The funds directly benefit the care for more information contact Kirsten Poole, 202-661- and support programs, research and advocacy 7567, kirsten@downtowndc.org. efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. National Building Museum; 6:30 p.m. reception, 7:30 p.m. dinner; $500, tables starting at $5,000; black-tie; contact Jennifer Christiano, 877-885-5776, jennifer. christiano@alz.org.

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APRIL

03

KENNEDY CENTER SPRING GALA This benefit kicks off spring in style with a performance by celebrated musicians, dancers, actors and singers. Following the show, dancing and dessert cap off this memorable night, which serves as the annual fundraiser for the nationwide artistic, educational and outreach programs for the Kennedy Center. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; 6:30 p.m.; starting at $1,000; black-tie; contact springgala@ kennedy-center.org.

SAVE THE DATE UPCOMING EVENTS

APRIL.12 APRIL.16 APRIL.29

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

VITAL VOICES GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS BACHELORS AND SPINSTERS BALL

THE CORCORAN BALL

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IMAX

SMITHSONIAN

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NOW SHOWING AT THE JOHNSON IMAX THEATER National Museum of Natural History 10th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, D.C. 20560

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Smithsonian Theaters


FYIDC | BOOK WATCH

CECIL BEATON

THE ART OF THE SCRAPBOOK

CAFÉ SOCIETY SOCIALITES PATRONS AND ARTISTS TO BY THIERRY COUDERT

Assouline, $250

“I

live by my eyes,” Cecil Beaton once said, and so will any reader who views the wondrous collection of magazine ads, invitations, postcards, playbills and newspaper clippings the celebrated photographer pasted into scrapbooks between the early 1930s and the late 1960s. Culled from 8,000 pages into one weighty (15 pound!) volume, the contents reflect Beaton’s passionate curiosity and insight as he pursued his muse with photography that included high fashion shoots for Vogue and Vanity Fair, British royal family portraits and glamour shots of Hollywood stars as well as gritty photos of homes and factories bombed during the London Blitz. He liked the high and the low – and his whimsical collage is part of the fun. A tear sheet of a 14thcentury Pietà is juxtaposed with publicity photos of a brooding Marlon Brando after which a grandly signed Christmas card from Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, pops out not far from one of her nemesis, the Duchess of Windsor. Beaton’s personal asides can be astonishing. Under a photo of cosmetics queen Helena Rubenstein he scrawls: “mean even after death;” historian J.B. Priestly is a “swine.” Anyone fascinated by high style and all its confections will treasure this book. For ardent scrapbookers, it is an absolute must.

Flammarion, $75

T

he denizens of “Café Society” did more than supplant the bluebloods who dominated the international scene before World War I, they were a lot more fun. The secret was in the mix. Noble titles and old money continued to play important roles, although for the first time they had relatively equal parts on an international stage that came to include artists, couturiers, interior designers, photographers, writers, musicians – and more than a few con men, lounge lizards and gold diggers. Thierry Coudert’s compelling history of this intriguing world and the glamorous people who inhabited it is cleverly subdivided into chapters on “Aristocrats” (Marie-Laure de Noailles and the Duke and Duchess of Kent), “Millionaires” (Barbara Hutton, Mona Bismarck), and “Socialites” (Alexis de Rede, Profirio Rubirosa) as well as those who triumphed in the so-called “Minor Arts” such as Diana Vreeland, Fulco di Verdura, Cristobal Balenciaga, Cole Porter and Noel Coward. News coverage was a key factor in what wags were soon calling “Publi-ciety” and there was a huge audience for breathless accounts of the group’s glamorous gatherings in New York, Paris, London, Palm Beach, Newport, St. Moritz, Monte Carlo and other watering holes. The author’s choice of numerous period photographs and archival documents, many never before seen by the public, is a major accomplishment – one that will surely be appreciated by those for whom this rarefied world is an ongoing fascination.

BOOKWATCH BY KEVIN CHAFFEE

JEWELS OF THE ROMANOVS BY STEFANO PAPI Thames and Hudson, $65

W

hen officials of Russia’s new revolutionary government broke into strongboxes once owned by their former rulers, they found a treasure trove of tiaras, brooches, necklaces, bracelets and other objets covered in precious stones. “This is what happened to our wealth!” one Bolshevik cried after

18

viewing the fabulous hoard amassed by the Grand Duke Paul, who, like many of his relations, was summarily executed by the new regime. The Romanovs were said to possess the most valuable jewels of any monarchy in the world and Stefano Papi, a former Sotheby’s jewelry department specialist, has done a remarkable job describing and illustrating the dynasty’s historic regalia, including the personal collections of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra, the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna, Grand Duchess Vladimir and many other family members.

The ultimate fate of the proud possessors makes fascinating reading – although, sadly, there is no genealogical chart to keep track of the various individuals mentioned. As for the jewels themselves, many may be viewed in the Kremlin’s vast treasury; numerous others were broken up and sold to raise hard currency for the cash-strapped regime in the 1920s and 1930s. Most of the pieces that were spirited out of Russia ended up being sold by their newly impoverished owners, who were to retain precious few keepsakes of their vanished imperial splendor.

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com



FYIDC | WHO’S NEXT

WHO’S NEXT Emily Barton, Executive Director, Teach for America, D.C. Region PHOTO BY TONY POWELL LO C AT I O N : CHURCHKEY

A

fter getting her bachelor’s in history at Yale in 2004, Emily Barton spent two years teaching seventh grade math in Opelousas, La., with Teach for America (TFA). Her classroom experiences in the “Spice Capital of the World” left a lasting impression – enough to inspire the native New Yorker to launch the corps in Connecticut before she moved on to direct the organization’s D.C. Region in 2008. TFA has grown exponentially since then, and it remains one of the nation’s largest providers of teachers for low-income communities. HOW DID TEACH FOR AMERICA CHANGE YOU? Seeing my students’ achievements cemented my desire to ensure that every child has a great education. For me, there was a specific joy in teaching math because we had lots of epiphanies. Children make a real facial expression when they understand something for the first time. I realized that TFA was an important part of my generation’s chapter of history. HOW DO YOU STAY PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR WORK? I think of my former student Makayla all the time. When we met she was shy, physically small and struggled to subtract double-digit numbers. By the end of my class, she had matured and was solving multiple variable equations.

YOU’RE AN ANC COMMISSIONER IN LOGAN CIRCLE. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL HANGOUT? ChurchKey is a favorite spot. In my single-member district there is so much good food that it’s hard to choose between Estadio, Poste, Cork and St-Ex. I like going down to play ultimate frisbee on the Mall, too. YOU MUST MISS LONG SUMMER VACATIONS. I do miss Zydeco dancing in Louisiana, but I still take vacations pre y seriously. Last summer I went to Bali to learn how to surf.

—Alexa McMahon

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WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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P H OTO BY TO N Y P OW E L L

FORMER D.C. SCHOOLS CHANCELLOR MICHELLE RHEE ONCE SAID SHE IMMEDIATELY KNEW WHICH CLASSROOMS HAD TFA TEACHERS. TFA looks for a certain zest and grit in our teachers. Washington is in the national spotlight for education, which makes succeeding here critical. Many don’t realize that, empirically, D.C. kids are behind children from other low-income communities.



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POLLYWOOD The Nexus of Politics﹐ Hollywood﹐ Media and Diplomacy | The BET Honors and After Party, Inside Sundance and the film “Arabia 3D”

Iman at the BET Honors. (Photo byTony Powell)

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com

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POLLYWOOD | HOLLYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC

MOVIES

Shirts Off to Chris Lee

UNCOMMON VISION THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JOHN HOWARD GRIFFIN

A “fun, fit and classy” guy, or so he says.

Journalist

T

Howard

Griffin’s

groundbreaking “Black Like Me,” which

B Y J A N E T D O N O VA N

weet decks were buzzing at the Washington Press Club Foundation’s 67th Annual Congressional Dinner over what was being called the “speed scandal.” By the time it took to get from the Capitol to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Rep. Christopher Lee (R-N.Y.) had abruptly resigned from Congress after Gawker.com revealed he’d sent a shirtless photo to a woman in reply to a Craigslist ad.What was so amazing about his departure is that we can’t think of anyone else who would leave Congress over a shirtless photo. Envisioning potential site click-throughs, staffers from The Hill newspaper expressed remorse that Lee had not been included in their 2010 “50 Most Beautiful People on the Hill” issue. While guests surfed and turfed, freshmen members dabbled in SNL routines: Sen. Christopher Coons (D-Del.):“During my campaign I did a bus tour up and down my state; it took about 20 minutes and cost $400 in tolls.”

John

chronicles his experience traveling through

Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) on getting tips from senior members: “Rand Paul told me to buy gold and John Ensign said I should get to know my staff really, really well.” Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala.) was President Obama’s escort at the State of the Union and said she had four messages from Elliot Spitzer when she got back to the office. Rep. Sean Duffy (R-Wis.) on comparing himself to Sarah Palin.“She puts lipstick on a pig. I put tanning lotion on John Boehner’s back.”

the racially segregated South in 1959 disguised as a black man (with the help of a dermatologist who darkened his skin) has sold 12 million copies since it was published in 1961. Filmmaker Morgan Atkinson turned the book into a documentary, which recently screened in Washington. “Griffin started out doing this journey with some degree of detachment as a journalist, but within hours he became immersed in the inhumane way he was being treated as a black man,” Morgan noted. Rep. John Lewis, a 12-term member of Congress and noted civil rights leader, said that because of people like Griffin, “We live in a different America. Martin Luther King would be proud of the distance we have gone, but we still have miles to go.” John Lewis and Morgan Atkinson

David Hawkings and David Rapp

HEARD QUOTABLE QUOTES FROM AROUND TOWN Q&A QUICKIE

Whether or not President Ronald Reagan had Alzheimer’s while in office is a family feud. “I suppose I should send Michael a thank you note for helping me sell books,” said Ron. His brother has spoken out against Ron’s recollections. “I do not claim

Yeas & Nays columnist NIKKI SCHWAB on being born in The Year of the Rat: “Do I feel bad about being a rat? No, that was my high school nickname.”

24

Bloomberg economics reporter REBECCA CHRISTIE on playing in an Irish band: “That’s what you do when you don’t want to talk about the debt ceiling any longer. It’s the perfect place for a treasury reporter.”

Atlantic Media’s JOHN FOX SULLIVAN on The State of The Union bipartisan date night: “They’ll be divorced by 9:12 or at least by 10:15 p.m.”

TUCKER CARLSON on his Daily Caller party for new members and their aides: “I’m going to let human nature take its course. We have a room of young, a ractive intoxicated Washingtonians, so who knows what’s going to happen?”

“I occasionally saw things that I had questions about that would raise worries for me.” His mother Nancy loved the book. “That’s what she told me. Read it, loved it, made her cry and was very proud of me.” On his sister Pa i Davis: “I don’t know. What about my sister ... ?” Ron Reagan and Betsy Fischer

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com

P H OTO S BY JA N E T D O N OVA N .

that I diagnosed my father with Alzheimer’s while in office,” said Ron.


LOCKHEED MARTIN


Kevin and Erika Liles Yolanda Adams Mayor Vincent Gray

Ava Coleman and Debra Lee

Nicole Ari Parker, Boris Kodjoe and Anika Noni Rose

Valerie Jarrett Sharon Malone and Attorney General Eric Holder Gabrielle Union

THE 2011 BET HONORS The Warner Theatre

Herbie Hancock

PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

GLITZ & GLAMOUR Actress Gabrielle Union hosted the first BET Honors with performances by chart-topping artists like Trey Songz, Ne-Yo, Lala Hathaway, Yolanda Adams and Keyshia Cole who worked hard to enhance the night’s upbeat vibe. HONORED: Iconic actress Cicely Tyson, Academy award-winning actor and musician Jamie Foxx, supermodel Iman, legendary musician Herbie Hancock, publishing mogul Linda Johnson Rice and historian Lonnie G. Bunch took bows for their work and contributions to the community. REMEMBERED: A er Marsha Ambroise paid an emotional tribute to the late Teena Marie the crowd moved on to the Mandarin Oriental hotel for a stylish a er party. Proceeds benefited the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation Inc. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Reverend Al Sharpton and B. Smith

David Sutphen and Tina D’Souza

Britt Loren and Jamie Foxx

Robyn and Andre Wells

Cicely Tyson Philippe and Debbie Dauman

Debi and Ernie Jarvis


Please join us... D.C. Region Gala: Leadership Changing Lives

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Mandarin Oriental 1330 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20024 Reception 6:30 p.m. Dinner and program 7:30 p.m. Business Attire

Event Chairs:

Katherine and David Bradley

Honoring:

Kristin Ehrgood and Vadim Nikitine

Walter Isaacson

Christie and Jeff Weiss

President and CEO, The Aspen Institute Chair, National Board of Directors, Teach For America

Finance Chair:

Lawrence P. Fisher, II

About Teach For America: Since 1992, Teach For America has provided a critical source of outstanding teachers to the D.C. Region who continue to serve as lifelong leaders in the effort to reform public education. Today, more than 450 teachers are doing whatever it takes to ensure that over 22,000 students living in poverty across our region achieve academically. They are joined by more than 1,340 Teach For America alumni who, armed with an understanding of how the achievement gap can be closed, work to transform life prospects for children growing up in low-income communities. For more information about the gala, leadership opportunities, and tickets please contact Mae Pugeda with The Webster Group at mae@webstergroupinc.com or 202.237.0090 ext. 39 or visit our website, www.teachforamerica.org/dcgala.


Sen. Maria Cantwell Ted Greenberg and Susan Sher

Jon Meacham

WL EXCLUSIVE

RON REAGAN BOOK PARTY

Betsy Fischer and Edie Emery.

The Jefferson Hotel PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Fred Ryan

Constance Milstein, Ron Reagan and Tammy Haddad

Alma Gildenhorn Ron Braso, Sarah Smothers and Chris Wallace

PERSONAL MEMOIR: Ron Reagan never considered writing a standard memoir about his famous father, preferring instead to concentrate on the 40th president’s “inner core of 10 percent compared to the 90 percent that everyone else knew.” UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE: The younger Reagan’s fascinating (and well-wri en) study, “My Father at 100,” was much discussed at the party in his honor hosted by Constance Milstein and Count Jehan-Christophe de La Haye-Saint Hilaire, Tammy Haddad and Ted Greenberg, and former Newsweek editor Jon Meacham, who did an onthe-spot author interview for the Huffington Post. INVITED: Media and social luminaries, Reagan administration stalwarts and – surprisingly – more than a few Democrats with fond memories of the “Gipper.”

John Mason

WL EXCLUSIVE

Ann and Jim Free

‘MR. SUNDAY’S SOUPS’ BOOK PARTY

Judy Woodruff

Catherine Reynolds and Debbie Dingell

Bonnie McElveen-Hunter Residence PHOTOS BY KYLE SAMPERTON

Brit Hume and Pat Sagon

TABLE TIES Lorraine Wallace’s homemade soups did much more than revive her newsman husband Chris Wallace when he came home exhausted a er hosting “Fox News Sunday” each week. Warm stomachs and conversation helped minimize strife and sibling rivalries as children from their his-hers-and-ours family bonded over her delicious concoctions. CELEBRATING SOUP When Bonnie McElveen-Hunter suggested doing a recipe book, the author got to work and the rest was culinary-lit history, which guests sampled on the spot as mugs of hot and creamy bu ernut squash purée were served. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Barbara and John Cochran

Lorraine Wallace and Susan Sher

Ginny Grenham and Paul Zevnik

Bob Barnett


FOR MORE INFOR M ATION OR TO PURCHASE TABLES OR TICKETS CALL: 877.885.5776 EMAIL:

NATIONALGALA@ALZ.ORG

OR VISIT

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ELIZABETH GELFAND STEARNS MERYL COMER NATIONAL COMMITTEE

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. Washington Life is the media sponsor of the National Alzheimer’s Gala.


POLLYWOOD | LAWRENCE BENDER

Scenes from “Countdown to Zero.” (Film stills courtesy of Magnolia Pictures)

Counting On Change Lawrence Bender, the multiple award-winning producer of “An Inconvenient Truth” and “Pulp Fiction,” is working to raise awareness of the nuclear dangers facing our world. B Y L AW R E N C E B E N D E R

M

100 political, military, business, civic and religious ovies matter. We’ve known that leaders. In just two years it has grown to 300 ever since Charlie Chaplin made leaders and 400,000 citizens worldwide. the world laugh throughout a The group believes that whatever deterrent Depression; since Peter Fonda, value nuclear weapons may have had in the Jack Nicholson and Dennis Hopper turned a Cold War is now outweighed by the dangers of generation on to the idea of dropping out; since proliferation and nuclear terrorism – and the only Sidney Poitier opened a nation’s eyes to its own way to eliminate these threats is to eliminate all prejudices. When I saw Al Gore’s slide show six nuclear weapons. years ago, I knew there was a movie to be made Our international Global Zero Commission that could make a difference. And it did. of 23 political and military leaders developed a After producing “An Inconvenient Truth,” a practical, step-by-step plan – backed by hundreds lot of people came to me with other causes – and of former heads of state, foreign ministers, national there are a lot of important ones: water scarcity, security advisors and military commanders – to poverty and so many more. But when Matt eliminate all nuclear weapons through phased and Brown and Bruce Blair, co-coordinators of Global verified reductions over the next two decades. Zero, called me about making a documentary on This will take years of painstaking work, nuclear danger, I realized that this is the other but it can be done. Political support is growing. issue, along with climate change, that poses a Over the past two years, Presidents Barack planetary threat. Academy Award-winning producer Lawrence Obama and Dmitry Medvedev jointly declared So we, along with my “Inconvenient Truth” Bender. (Photo courtesy of Global Zero) their commitment to the Global Zero goal partners, Jeff Skoll and Participant Media, produced “Countdown to Zero,” an edge-of-your seat movie about and negotiated the new START Treaty. The United Nations Security nuclear proliferation, terrorism and the threat of an accidental launch. Council unanimously adopted a resolution calling for the elimination We interviewed former heads of state who once had their fingers on of nuclear weapons. It is my hope that “Countdown to Zero” will help bring this issue the button, such as Mikhail Gorbachev, Jimmy Carter,Tony Blair, Pervez Musharraf and F.W. de Klerk; experts such as CIA counterterrorism to the top of the political agenda. We screened the film at the United officer Valerie Plame Wilson; and perpetrators that included a jailed Nations, the CIA and at events in India, Kazakhstan and other locations around the world. It premiered at the Sundance and Cannes film festivals nuclear material smuggler in the country of Georgia. It is a scary film. But the point of the movie is not simply to scare people – it is to and opened in 85 cities in North America this summer to critical acclaim educate and motivate them to get involved in Global Zero’s efforts to and widespread media coverage, and is now available on DVD. I encourage others to get involved and bring their own skills, talents and eliminate all nuclear weapons. This new movement, of which I am a founder, was launched two years ago in Paris by an international group of resources to the cause.There is nothing more urgent facing the world.

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| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com


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POLLYWOOD | DIPLOMATIC DANCE

Awards & Heroic Feats Austria honors Gertrude d’Amecourt, Chile’s guitar-playing ambassador readies to rock, and a fitting tribute to a canine hero of Embassy Row BY GAIL SCOTT

U

NOFFICIAL AMBASSADOR Only two blocks from her former Kalorama abode of four decades, Viennese-born Viscountess (Gertrude) d’Amecourt – well known for guiding Austrian ambassadors through Washington society over the years – was decorated by that nation’s current envoy, Christian Prosl , on behalf of Austrian President Heinz Fischer with the “Decoration of Honor in Gold for Services to the Republic.” Over 100 admirers of “Gertie’s,” including her three children (John, Nicole and Guy d’Amecourt) and bosom buddy Lolo Sarnoff, toasted the 100-year old grande dame at the Austrian Residence on January 13. The evening’s surprise came from another famous Austrian compatriot, Hollywood’s “Terminator,” i.e., former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. “You have been a true ambassador [of Austria],” he said, adding that “no one could have done it as well and achieved so much.” Prosl praised his guest of honor’s “charm and wit” before adding with a twinkle in his eye, “and very sharp tongue – considered a good thing in Austria.” For once Gertie was speechless.

HOW AMBASSADORS RELAX If you asked former Washington Ambassadors András Simonyi of Hungary and Pierre Vimont of France how they relax, their answers would both be: “Playing my guitar.” It seems that musical instrument is also the favorite of Chilean Ambassador Arturo Fermandois, 48, who abandoned his family’s “required” classical violin studies after seven years and switched to guitar at age 16 because, “I didn’t have the talent to become a professional and the guitar was much easier and more fun.” By 18, he added an acoustical instrument and was playing

32

for two hours in front of a live audience,” he says. “It’s that unique connection with other people, a direct communication of feelings, happiness and sadness, that I miss.”

DIPLOMATIC DETECTIVE – OR ONE DOG’S TALE Yoriko Fujisaki, wife of the Japanese Amb. Ichiro Fujisaki, never meant to write a book but was “overwhelmed with sorrow” – what the Japanese call “pet loss”– when “Skipper,” their beloved black Labrador, died last March at age 14. She followed a friend’s advice and started writing about her former companion. Now those fond memories are an inspirational children’s book, titled “Moudouken ni narenakatta, Skipper” or, “Let’s Go Home, Skipper,” published in Japanese by Bungeishunju-sha, one of her country’s top publishers. Above: Gertrude d’Amecourt The moral of the book (from which and Austrian Amb. Christian a portion of the royalties will be donated Prosl. (Photo by Karl Schammel) Right: Chilean Amb. Arturo to the Humane Society in Japan and Fermandois performs on stage. Washington) is Skipper’s true-life story. (Photo by Gail Scott) During a previous posting here when Latin American “protest songs,” and American their daughters were young, the Fujisakis folk favorites from Cat Stevens, John Denver, offered a “temporary home” to a puppy named Skipper who was to become a guide dog for James Taylor and Jim Croce. “My parents were crazy about classical music the blind. After he failed his test at the age of 11 and all six of us were expected to regularly months (his focus was too narrow and intense), perform in the family’s chamber soirées” (his he became a bomb-sniffing police dog and mother and sister followed his grandmother as later spent more than a decade working in the professional pianists and teachers). In law school, Milan airport after being given by the U.S. to he formed his first amateur band in Santiago the Italian government. Upon his retirement, and, the second one, called Rockasaurios or the Fujisakis welcomed him “home.” “Even when you fail in one test, there is Rockin’ Dinosaurs, when he turned 40. As a first-time envoy last fall, his hands were full always a way that leads you to a successful life with the spectacular rescue of Chile’s 33 miners, if you find your potential,” the author explains. other pressing diplomatic issues and settling in “Some say the book is also good for adult his own family of five, but now he’s ready reading and raising children, emphasizing not to start a band here as well. “Nothing can what you want them to become but looking compare with the relaxation I feel after playing at what they do best.”

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com


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SPECIAL FEATURE | CHINA WATCHER

China Watcher Jeffrey Bader, President Obama’s national security advisor on Asian affairs, talks optimistically about future Chinese-American relations. BY CHUCK CONCONI

I

t will take some time to determine if Chinese President Hu Jintao’s are so different. It is incredible what they have done.” He cites Shanghai as state visit in January will have accomplished a better working an example: “You would think you are in a modern American city.” Bader, who served as U.S. ambassador to Namibia from 1999 to 2001, relationship between his country and the United States, but Jeffrey Bader, special assistant to President Obama on Asian affairs, believes talks with the ease of a man who knows his subject while exhibiting the two world powers reached agreement and narrowed differences over modest pride in being an important presidential advisor. His wife moves restlessly about the room, watching over the couple’s three well-loved, issues as diverse as Iran and North Korea. “We have substantial differences on human rights,” says Bader, who rescued cats – Grey Boy, 17, found in Venice, Calif.; Foxy, 20, born in Zambia; and Baudelaire, about 17, a feral animal attended the state dinnner along with his wife, Rohini rescued from a snow storm outside their home. It took Talalla. “China has a considerable distance to go to a year to gain his confidence so he would move in meet international standards, and we talked about that have a tendency to make with them. Earlier, the photographer had attempted candidly.” Americans, he notes, “have a tendency to make China out to be 10-feet tall, but tend to forget China out to be 10-feet to get all three into a photograph of the couple, but like any self-respecting, independent cats, they weren’t about the enormous issues facing them.” tall, but tend to forget being cooperative. Bader, senior director for East Asian affairs on Talalla, an exotic mix of Sri Lankan, Welsh, the National Security Council, is talking in his about the enormous issues Burmese and Chinese ancestry, considers herself a comfortable Chevy Chase, Md., home along with facing them.” Californian. (She immigrated to Santa Monica as a his wife, a documentary filmmaker. The pair are teenager after growing up in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). part of the ever-growing list of Washington power couples where each has his or her own career, making them in-demand She and Bader met in New York City and were married in 1985. The documentaries she produces through PBC/KLCS in Los Angeles go guests on the Washington social scene. Bader seems confident that relations with the Chinese, “while directly to classrooms and can reach 800 schools and education centers in complex, are pretty good.” He emphasizes that China is a vastly different the L.A. Unified School District.The films are also in major museums and country from the U.S. historically, strategically, socially and in a number research libraries. A documentary she produced on Washington’s famed of other ways as well.The economic and trade issues discussed during the colorist painter Sam Gilliam was screened twice last year as part of the visit were a source of friction, he argues, but were similar to the problems National Gallery of Art’s Film Series. Over the last decade,Talalla has done archival taping in Africa, Europe the U.S. had with Japan in the 1980s. He rejects the notion that China is rising as a world power while and Asia. She has a master’s degree from UCLA that focused on the the Unites States is diminishing. “We have had a rough economic patch economic development of the Black Muslims (Nation of Islam) of in recent years, but the U.S. is still a dominant power,” he says, pointing Compton, Calif. She is executive chairman of the Bridge Fund for sustainable out that China has about 10 percent of the per capita income that Americans enjoy. Sixteen of the 20 most polluted cities in the word development and cultural preservation in China and Tibet and also serves are located there. The Chinese are also dependent on Middle Eastern on the Cheetah Conservation Fund of Namibia. “Twenty-five percent of the world’s cheetah population is in Namibia,” oil and have an aging population and work force – the median age is 35. “We are an innovative society,” Bader explains. “Much of their Bader interjects, prompting his wife to mention with some pride that the head of the fund, Laurie Marker, named an orphaned baby cheetah “Tiny production is duplicative of our innovation.” Bader lived from 1981 to 1983 in Beijing where it was “gray and Rohinitalalla.” “It is the spunkiest and bravest little cat,”Talalla says, noting undeveloped … There were five million bicycles and no private cars … no that the cub’s mother had been “shot and killed.” She jokes that she moved to Washington “kicking and screaming” high-rises and no privately owned restaurants. It was grim.” Now, “things

“AMERICANS

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| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com


Rohini Talalla (left) and Jeffrey Bader greet Chewbacca the cheetah in Namibia with Laurie Marker, founding director of the Cheetah Conservation Fund. (Family Photo)

Malaysia or pursuing her passion of empowering Muslim women in Southeast Asia.” Conversation with the couple is both easy and wide-ranging. They often finish each other’s sentences or expand on topics of conversation the other has raised. Bader, who was born in Brooklyn and has both his master’s and doctorate degrees from Columbia University, has worked in several countries in the Foreign Service. After leaving government he worked at Stonebridge International (now the Albright Stonebridge Group) and then at the Brookings Institute. He says he first met then-Sen. Barack Obama after receiving a call that the Illinois Democrat wanted to discuss trade in his Photo by Tony Powell Capitol Hill office. Over a Thai lunch, the small group talked for and remains a Californian at heart. Pointing to the large floor-to-ceiling about three hours. “I heard him for one minute and was convinced that windows and flowing open space, she says they bought the house because this man was going to run for president and win. I called Susan Rice it had California style. Art and artifacts from their travels – most of it [now ambassador to the United Nations] and said: ‘If he announces he is running, call me.’” Southeast Asian – fill every available space. When the presidential campaign started there were four people serving Talalla admits that Washington is where to find the best and the brightest, and where dinner conversations are stimulating. She mentions as Asian advisors. Bader says that by the time Obama was nominated, veteran diplomatic hostesses Ina Ginsburg and Esther Coopersmith as there were 60. Talalla adds that for her husband, it was like being present at the creation and that “he couldn’t stop talking about Obama.” He special friends she has made here. Former U.S. Ambassador to China Jon Huntsman says that he and his emphasizes that he remains profoundly impressed with the president’s wife, Mary Kaye, are the couple’s close friends.“As a long-time Asia hand, I intellect, temperament and curiosity. Bader travels constantly for work and his wife has been to 100 can tell you there is no one more admired in the profession than Jeff Bader. It is deep, broad based and transcends politics … even more unusual, is the countries, many “on the edges of the earth.” On one recent milestone birthday she went sky diving without telling her husband.When he later level of respect in which he is held in capitals throughout Asia.” Huntsman notes that Bader’s standing is complemented by that of his learned of it, she adds, “he went nuts.”The one place they both visit every wife, “who adds the cultural sophistication to this extraordinary couple. year is Hawaii, where she scuba dives and Bader snorkels. “It is very restful,” Talalla says, especially for one reason: “No fish has While Jeff is talking about nuclear disarmament on the Korean peninsula, Rohini will engross you in conversation about her latest film project in ever wanted an on-the-record statement on China.”

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Main Street, Park City (photo Michael J. Gerrior)

SUNDANCE

MAKING ART MATTER

B

y al m o s t eve r y EACH YEAR SUNDANCE BECOMES MORE AND MORE POWER OF STORY measure, the 2011 It’s not Sundance without taking VALUABLE AND INFLUENTIAL IN THE WORLD OF edition hit a new a 360-degree look at the state of NARRATIVE AND DOCUMENTARY FILMMAKING high note creatively the arts and critical issues facing its THIS YEAR WAS NO DIFFERENT THE ANNUAL FEST and commercially practitioners, recipients and advocates. CONTINUES TO ATTRACT HEAVWEIGHT DISTRIBUTORS with more passionate The impact of art – whether it be AND ARTISTS AS WELL AS A STRONG CONTINGENT OF praise by fest-goers, critics and film, television, literature, visual or WASHINGTONIANS MAKING THEIR OWN INDELIBLE distributors, plus a whopping 38 performing arts – and why it matters MARKS ON THE WORLD OF CINEMA sales-and-counting with many deals was a key question explored at still pending. Sundance and Time Warner’s signature BY J O DY AR LI N GTO N Some of the ebullience could be “Power of Story” discussion led by attributed to a brightening national mood, Arts and the Humanities; Lani Hay in support Goslins, who was joined by Norman Lear, or the box office and critical successes of last of “Hell and Back Again”; Clara Bingham Dave Eggers and George C. Wolfe. What year’s Park City crop (for example, four out and Tim Rockwood, producer and executive ensued was a lively exchange about what arts of five of the Academy Award-nominated producer of “The Last Mountain”; filmmakers accomplish and how they should be incorporated documentaries premiered here last year). Susan and Georgia Koch; Kimball Stroud into the daily cultural fabric of our society amid Judging by the films, their writers, producers, and Jamie Shore of the IMPACT Arts + the current climate in Washington that suggests directors, subjects and themes dominating Film Fund; Rick Allen, CEO of SnagFilms; cultural funding can be cut completely. Equally conversations in theaters, on the streets Lindsey Mask, CEO, Ladies DCs; Charles central to the conversation was the role and and sometimes on the slopes, programmers Paret, CEO, Paxton Stuart Ventures; Kate responsibility of artists in advocating for arts successfully conjured a cinematic zeitgeist Harold, director of artist relations, Recording education. Goslins noted that she was struck by Industry Association of America; Alexis Levine, how many people do such passionate, fantastically unseen for many years. A sizeable crew of Washingtonians (and CEO of Savvy Media; John Ferber, AOL; effective work for causes they care about – be former residents) once again arrived on the Howard Clark Seydel, Sundance Institute; they about the environment, genocide or clean mountain to screen and discuss some of the Shergoh Alkilani, CEO of Alkova Companies; water – yet so few take on the arts as a cause. 118 features, 81 shorts and numerous panels. Dominick Vastino, CEO, 3D Impact Media; One audience member noted that too few Notables included “Pollywood” residents Larry Williams,VP Strategic Relations, SpaceX; artists and advocates make the right economic Sheila Johnson, who is now on the Sundance Melissa Torres, John Mason, Doug Smith, case. Congressional leaders typically have no idea Institute’s Board; Rachel Goslins, executive Roshanak Ameli-Tehrani and Michael how many of their constituents are employed in director of the President’s Committee on the Mater, amongst others. the arts industry, the volume of income and taxes

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Though still a brave new world, it looks favorable for filmmakers.

were four Georgetown alumni in the festival who were coincidentally in the first month of the school’s newly launched film and media minor program. This may be a record for any POLLYWOOD ON FILM Pollywood is always well represented at area universities as representatives could not Sundance on screen and behind the camera, and recall so many alumni featured at the festival many films with Washington connections sold before. Jim Whitaker’s “Rebirth,” in the or were among the 25 award winners at the Documentary Premiere section (sale pending), DC DISTRIBUTION HEAVYWEIGHTS One of the most coveted events at Sundance closing night ceremony. National Geographic weaves together five stories of individuals was Discovery’s OWN party, where Oprah filmmakers Eric Strauss and Daniele whose lives were profoundly altered by the Winfrey and Rosie O’Donnell (with a surprise Anastasion and DP Ryan Hill took home 9/11 attack. Its unprecedented time-lapse footage of Ground Zero, filmed over 10 appearance by Elmo featured in one of years, chronicles the evolution of grief the docs), announced further details and national healing. about OWN’s Documentary Club. If it Mike Cahill, wrote and directed has half the impact as Oprah’s Book Club, most coveted events at Sundance was “Another Earth,” a science-fiction it will be a major game changer for the Discovery’s OWN party where Oprah drama about the sudden appearance documentaries OWN acquires. OWN has the potential to further burnish Winfrey announced further details about of another Earth-like planet. It was acquired by specialty-film powerhouse Washington’s mantle of “Docuwood,” OWN’s Documentary Club. Fox Searchlight and won both the Alfred thanks to Discovery, National Geographic, P. Sloan Feature Film Prize and a special PBS, Silverdocs and a large vibrant filmmaking community. the Excellence in Cinematography Award, Jury Prize in the U.S. Dramatic Competition. The promise of Winfrey’s imprimatur on U.S. Documentary for “The Redemption Zal Batmanglij wrote and directed “Sound doc projects was only one hot topic, as the of General Butt Naked.” The film profiles a of My Voice.” Brit Marling, touted as one of promise of digital multi-platform distribution notorious Liberian warlord who becomes an the actresses to watch by many major critics, remained a throughline of conversation. There evangelical preacher and seeks out his victims starred in and helped write both films. Some of the most hotly discussed properties was also plenty of talk about Ted Leonsis’ pre- to ask forgiveness. Former Washingtonian Sundance announcement of Comcast’s $10 and first-time filmmaker Susan Saladoff’s going into Sundance included HBO’s million investment in Snagfilms and its planned “Hot Coffee,” acquired by HBO, explores “Becoming Chaz” (Fenton Bailey and expansion into narratives; Sundance Institute’s how corporations use frivolous lawsuits as Randy Barbato), Morgon Spurlock’s “The own new suite of third-party digital distribution an excuse for wide ranging tort reform. The Greatest Movie Ever Sold,” and Steve James’ platforms that will be backed by the Institute’s film was well received for its high energy and “The Interrupters.” One can’t fail to mention hefty promotional support; and even Distribber ability to make complex legalese digestible. Eugene Jarecki’s “Reagan,” although it had and Brainstorm Media’s flat-fee service getting While Georgetown University boasts large already aired on HBO in time for the Gipper’s filmmakers on Amazon and iTunes as well as numbers of Academy-Tony-Emmy-award- centennial. It doesn’t get any more Pollywood all major VOD, cable, satellite and Telco systems. winning graduates, in a historical first, there than that. generated in their districts and states by those efforts, nor that American culture is our number one export – possibly the only one that doesn’t run a trade deficit. Conversation overflowed into Main Street to the Filmmaker Lounge where it continued into the afternoon.

ONE OF THE

EDITORS’ PICKS

THE LEDGE Director Matthew Chapman. One man’s thoughts of suicide and another’s contemplation of faith and love lead to thrilling internal turmoil on the ledge of a high-rise building. Produced by Michael Mailer.

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CIRCUMSTANCE Director Maryam Keshavarz. Set in contemporary Iran, it tells the story of two teenaged girls who are in love but bound by the ideologies of the society they were raised in.Winner: Audience Award for Dramatic Film.

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ANOTHER EARTH Director Mike Cahill.This low-budget sci-fi piece, written by two Georgetown University graduates, tests one woman’s ability to overcome her troubling past while entangled in the possibility of a second Earth.

CONNECTED Tiffany Shlain’s documentary explores the visible and invisible connections linking major issues of our time – the environment, consumption, population growth, technology, human rights, the global economy – while searching for

her place in it. HELL AND BACK AGAIN Directed by Danfung Dennis. Follows Sgt. Nathan Harris of U.S. Marines Echo Company’s painful return to civilian life in North Carolina. Winner: The World Cinema Jury Prize: Documentary.

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POLLYWOOD | INSIDE SUNDANCE

PARK CITY BY NIGHT Films are the major draw at Sundance, but when the screenings stop, the fun and networking begin. Here are some of our favorite hot spots. Sky Lodge

Sky is The Limit

Worshipping at the altar of celebrity at TAO in Park City (Photo: Pencer Strayer/WorldRedEeye.com)

As Park City’s SkyBlue number one traveler’s getaway, the SKY LODGE flaunts 33 high-profile suites, four uniquely themed bars and lounges and a feng shui-inspired spa modeled on a traditional Japanese bath. Located in the heart of Park City, the Sky Lodge is a mecca for all things celebrity. SKYBLUE, the Lodge’s premiere rooftop lounge, is an A-list oasis at the Sundance Film Festival, and was voted the best rooftop bar in the country by USA Today. It’s where guests can indulge in the amenities of downtown Park City but also enjoy all the comforts of a mountain resort. The property was named one of the world’s top new hotels and featured in Condé Nast Traveler magazine.

TAO at the Samsung Galaxy Tab Lift STYLE Asian-infused A-List Zen WHY IT WAS HOT Sundance’s best high-profile events, star-studded guest lists and after-hours cocktails BEST EVENT Chris Masterson’s Birthday Party WHO DROPPED BY “Thor” actor Chris Hemsworth, Hugh Dancy, James Franco, Shawn White, Demi Moore, Kate Bosworth, Ellen Barkin, Juno Temple, Emile Hirsch, Britney Eustis, Florence Welch of Florence and The Machine, Cee-Lo Green, DJ Danny Masterson, Sting, Lil Jon, Megan Fox, hotelier Andre Balazs and Chelsea Handler KNOWN FOR ITS HIGH-PROFILE CELEBRITYINFUSED PARTIES NOAH TEPPERBERG’S NIGHTCLUB TAO CONQUERED PARK CITY’S CLUB SCENE TRANSFORMING THE SAMSUNG GALAXY TAB LIFT INTO ONE OF THE HOTTEST PARTY VENUES AT SUNDANCE HERE’S HIS TAKE ON SUNDANCE WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT AT TAO SUNDANCE ‘ ? My favorite part of our four-night program was my friend Jamie Patricof’s party for his movie “Little Birds.” WHY DID YOU BRING TAO TO SUNDANCE? We felt is was only appropriate to open an outpost in Utah during the festival when so many of our friends and clients are there. We’ve done a pop-up venue in Park City for the past six years and have set them up at the Superbowl and VMA awards as well.

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Jeremy Piven in the Bing Lounge

BING Lounge Noah Tepperberg and Melissa Wood

WHAT’S THE CHALLENGE OF DOING A POP-UP VENUE? It’s hard to train a temporary staff on such short notice, but we manage to pull it off. WHAT SETS TAO APART FROM THE OTHER SUNDANCE HOTSPOTS? The Las Vegas and NYC energy we bring to the venue. WILL TAO BE BACK FOR SUNDANCE ‘ ? Yes, TAO will be back for sure.

STYLE Classic Contemporary WHY IT WAS HOT It hosted exclusive cast parties with top musical pairings. BEST EVENTS Premiere party for “The Ledge,” produced by Michael Mailer with Liv Tyler, Terrence Howard, Patrick Wilson and Christopher Gorham; Susan Sarandon’s social ping pong club, which has taken New York by storm; and cast parties for Harry Belafonte’s “Sing Your Song” and “My Idiot Brother” CELEBRITY SPOTTING Ryan Seacrest, Demi Moore, Tobey Maguire, Ray Liotta, Kerry Washington, director Jacob Estes, Ashton Kutcher, Tommy Lee, Chelsea Handler, Harvey Weinstein and Emilie Hirsch WHO PERFORMED Lil Jon, Snoop Dogg, Cee-Lo Green, Florence and the Machine and Donovan Leitch

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SPECIAL FEATURE | SUNDANCE

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and KT Tunstall

Robert Redford Caitlin Moe

ON THE SUNDANCE SCENE By Kiki Ryan

Smita XXXXShah, XXX Hilary Armstrong and Sarah Redlich

PHOTOS TIM ROCKWOOD MICHAEL J GERRIOR JERRITT CLARK/WIREIMAGE PENCER STRAYER/WORLDREDEEYE COM

Zoe Saldana and sister Cecily

Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, Lani Hay and Carla Markell

Soroush Shehabi, Joe Driscoll and Michael Mailer

U.S. Treasury Department spokesman Mark Paustenbach checked out the world premiere of “Beats, Rhymes and Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest,” a documentary on a legendary hip-hop act. He stuck around a erward for a Q&A featuring Phife Dawg of the group and the film’s indieactor-turned-director Michael Rappaport. Heather Smith, president of Rock the Vote, a group dedicated to ge ing young people politically involved, was one of the lucky few spo ed at the private screening of “The Last Mountain,” alongside Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Smith also a ended the party for Oprah Winfrey’s OWN network, where the media queen announced that her new network would do for documentary film what she and her Oprah show did for books. (Washington philanthropist Amanda Polk spo ed Winfrey while waiting to get into the House of Blues for the Third Eye Blind concert.) Lindsay Mask, communications director for Rep. Buck McKeon, couldn’t miss the screening of “Miss Representation.” She was spo ed viewing the documentary by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, wife of San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom. Mask and fellow Washingtonian Clark Seydel listened to the panel featuring actress Gina Davis and Seydel’s mother, Pat Mitchell, former president and CEO of PBS. IMPACT Arts + Film Fund’s Jody Arlington and Kimball Stroud rubbed shoulders with guests at the Creative Coalition Spotlight Initiative Awards dinner honoring the cast of the Sundance film “Margin Call.” They were spo ed breaking bread with Kevin Spacey, Demi Moore, Ellen Barkin, Jeremy Irons and other stars. A er a long day of film screenings and hob-nobbing with Hollywood types, many Washingtonians were spo ed at the nearby pop-up schmooze pad of Charlie Paret, managing director at Paxton Stuart LLC. For the third year at Sundance, Paret hosted events for a group of Washington-based CEOs, filmmakers and artists at “The Industry Lodge.”

Keri Putnam

Susan Sarandan

Adrian Grenier

Tim Rockwood

XXXX XXX

Bill Haney and Clara Bingham WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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Emile Hirsch

Emily Mortimer

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POLLYWOOD | INSIDE SUNDANCE

FILMMAKER SPOTLIGHT

B Y K I K I R YA N

“Hell and Back Again” follows the struggle of an injured Marine’s return to civilian life.

hen images from the front lines of the Afghanistan war, captured during an embedment by filmmaker Danfung Dennis, were used in a 2009 PBS Frontline special, “Obama’s War,” Washington took notice. First the White House. Then the Pentagon. So did branches of the military and veterans groups. But most recently, it was the audience at a Park City, Utah movie theater who were educated about the reality of this war when the PBS clips were made into a film. The

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result: Danfung’s work took one of the four top prizes at this year’s Sundance Film Festival – as Sebastian Junger’s “Restrepo” on the same topic had done the year before. Dennis’ first full-length documentary, “Hell and Back Again,” took home the coveted World Cinema Jury Prize at the January festival featuring some of America’s best independent films. The film that is sure to resonate in Washington follows the story of Sgt. Nathan Harris from Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th

Regiment of the Marines, with whom he was embedded. Dennis follows Sgt. Harris not only in Afghanistan but also as he faces the post-war trials of returning home. In a late January interview on the eve of his film’s screening at a Rock the Vote event hosted by Lanmark Technology CEO Lani Hay, Dennis explained how he was able to gain the amazing access that brought his film to life. Before starting it, he had to undergo multiple checks of having “every little detail [of my filming process] approved” by the military’s command. “But once you’re on the ground,” Dennis said, “they begin to trust you; you begin to trust them. Over time you go through these very difficult experiences, and because of that trust they allowed me into their lives.” Into their lives he got. Although Dennis chose not to comment, Sundance sources said the film was almost scrapped the night before the premiere because the Marines Corps did not want some of the raw combat images to be made public. (For example, one scene captured a mortal

gunshot that claimed the life of a U.S. Marine a few feet from where Dennis crouched.) “There is a distrust between journalists and the military, but that’s healthy,” Dennis said.

Director Danfung Dennis at the Rock the Vote event honoring “Hell And Back Again” at Jean Louis. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/WireImage).

NOTABLE SUNDANCE AWARD WINNERS

HOW TO DIE IN OREGON Directed by Peter D. Richardson. The film gently enters the lives of terminally ill Oregonians to illuminate the power of death with dignity. Winner: U.S. Documentary Competition Grand Jury Prize.

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HAPPY HAPPY SYKT LYKKELIG Directed by Anne Sewitsky. A perfect housewife’s rocky, sexless marriage sends her next door to explore sexual fulfillment. Winner:World Cinema Grand Jury Prize, Dramatic.

PROJECT NIM Directed by James Marsh.The film explores the story of Nim, the chimpanzee who was taught to communicate with sign language as he was raised and nurtured like a human child. Winner:World Cinema Documentary Directing Award.

BLACK POWER MIXTAPE - Edited by Goran Hugo Olsson and Hanna Lejonqvist. Directed by Goran Hugo Olsson. Swedish journalists chronicle the Black Power movement in America. Winner: World Cinema Documentary Editing Award.

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LIKE CRAZY Directed by Drake Doremus. An American man and a British girl meet in college and fall in love.That love is tested when they face the challenges of a long-distance relationship. Winner: U.S. Dramatic Competition Grand Jury Prize.

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com


MOUNTAIN MAN ROBERT F KENNEDY JR ON HOW THE FILM “THE LAST MOUNTAIN” IS RAISING AWARENESS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF MOUNTAINTOP MINING BY RO B ERT F. KEN N EDY J R .

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n the valleys of Appalachia, a battle is being the practice of dynamiting the mountain top to fought over a mountain. It is a battle with mine the coal within pollutes the air and water, severe consequences that affects all Ameri- is responsible for the deaths of their neighcans, regardless of their social status, eco- bors and spreads pollution to other states. Yet, nomic background or where they live. It is a regardless of evidence supporting these claims, Big Coal corbattle that has porations repeat taken many lives the process daily and continues to never faced a Goliath like Big Coal, but in the name of do so the longer it is waged, and in Coal River Valley, a small but passionate profit. Massive it is a battle over group of ordinary citizens are trying to earnings allow Big Coal to protecting our stop Big Coal corporations. wield incredible health and envifinancial influronment from the destructive power of Big Coal. The mining ence over lobbyists and government officials in and burning of coal is at the epicenter of Amer- both parties, rewrite environmental protection ica’s struggle to balance its energy needs with laws, avoid lawsuits and eliminate more than 40,000 mining jobs, all while claiming to be a environmental concerns. Nowhere is that concern greater than in miner’s best friend. As our energy needs increase, so does Big Coal River Valley, W. Va. David, himself, never faced a Goliath like Big Coal, but in Coal River Coal’s control over our future. This fact and a Valley, a small but passionate group of ordinary belief that America was founded on the demcitizens are trying to stop Big Coal corporations ocratic principal that no individual or corpolike Massey Energy from continuing the devas- ration owns the air or water and that we all tating practice of mountaintop removal on Coal share the responsibility of protecting it, drives River Valley Mountain. The citizens argue that these patriotic citizens and their supporters

DAVID, HIMSELF,

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from outside of Appalachia, like myself, to keep fighting. This is a moral issue. We don’t have a right to destroy what we can’t recreate. God created the Coal River Valley Mountains and Massey Energy President Don Blankenship is tearing them down and profiting from it. This is why I feel the film “The Last Mountain” is such an important wake-up call. It’s a poignant and personal tale that honors the extraordinary power of ordinary Americans when they fight for what they believe in. The film shines a light on America’s energy needs and how those needs are being supplied. There is no doubt in my mind that this is a fight for our future and one that affects us all, and it’s a fight that I was able to witness firsthand during the filming of this awe-inspiring documentary film. During Sundance this year, singer and social activist Harry Belafonte and I hosted a party and concert in support of this important documentary. The benefit raised money for my organization, the Waterkeeper Alliance, and the funds will be used to increase awareness and help stop the practice of mountaintop mining in Coal River Valley. My father once told me that he thought mining companies destroyed landscapes on purpose to permanently impoverish residents and break the wealth of the unions. “The Last Mountain” spotlights one community that is reluctant to let that happen. If the residents of Coal River Valley can unite and spark environmental change, it is my belief that the citizens of any town, of any community affected by mountaintop mining can come together to do the same. ______ “The Last Mountain” was picked up for theatrical distribution at the Sundance Film Festival where it premiered in January and will be in theatres this spring. It was written, directed and produced by Bill Haney, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and founder and president of the eco-housing start-up Blu Homes. “The Last Mountain” was co-written and edited by Peter Rhodes and produced by Clara Bingham and Eric Grunebaum. Narrated by William Sadler, the film features original music by composer Claudio Ragazzi and includes the song “Your Control” by Crooked Fingers and Neko Case.

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POLLYWOOD | POINT OF VIEW

The making of “Arabia 3D.”

QUICK LOOK ”Arabia 3D” opened at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History’s Johnson Imax Theater on Feb. 18 and will be shown several times daily. Produced by MacGillivray Freeman Films and MacGillivray Freeman Films Educational Foundation, “Arabia 3D” follows a 25-year-old film student as he discovers the roots of his people and how modern-day Saudi Arabia came to be. Narrated by Helen Mirren. Producer/director Greg MacGillivray.

MY ARABIA

PRINCE TURKI AL-FAISAL REMINISCES ABOUT HIS COUNTRY AS DEPICTED IN THE FILM ‘ARABIA D ’

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estling among the sumptuous, multicolored 3-D images that make up the beautiful IMAX film “Arabia 3D” is a short sequence of flickering, black and white newsreel footage that is particularly dear to me. It shows my beloved grandfather King Abdul-Aziz “Ibn Saud,” the creator of modern Saudi Arabia, meeting with your President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the courageous victor of World War II. It was February 1945. The war was almost over. Statesmen of vision were looking forward to resuming the work of peace, and these two great leaders met on board the USS Quincy in Egypt’s Great Bitter Lake to discuss how their nations could work together in the years ahead. Thus began the U.S.-Saudi “Special Relationship,” and ever since then our common

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understanding has been based on the strength of that initial personto-person meeting. We have had our ups and downs, of course, as in all relationships, but we’ve helped each other when we could. In the 1960s and ’70s we fought the Prince Turki Al-Faisal spread of communism together, particularly in Afr ica and Afghanistan. In 1990-91 we stood together to reverse Iraqi aggression in Kuwait. For more than six decades we were strong military allies, reliable energy partners and solid friends. Everything changed on Sept. 11, 2001. That day, our relationship was plunged into crisis. Suddenly, there existed deep suspicion, mistrust and misperceptions between our people. Any questions we had about each other became concerns. Any uncertainty became high anxiety. Nearly 10 years later, after much hard work

on both sides, the trust between our nations and our peoples has been restored – and this striking film, the first movie ever to be shot entirely in Saudi Arabia – has played its part in that. For more than a year “Arabia 3D” has been playing to enthralled audiences in IMAX theaters around America. Now it is Washington’s turn. You will certainly enjoy and educate yourselves when you go to see “Arabia 3D” – I can assure you of that. But I would like to make an extra appeal as you walk out of the theater, uplifted by what you have learned about a country and a culture on the other side of the world – my country, a nation my grandfather did so much to create. Diplomacy in the 21st century is not just for leaders – it involves everyday citizens. Each of us plays an increasingly important role in the process of international relations, for as we have recently seen, men and women everywhere feel empowered today as never before. Each of us has the chance to be diplomats in our own right. So, that is why we must all now take up the task of reaching out to each other across national borders. What you learn about Saudi Arabia in this remarkable film can be a start. Prince Turki Al-Faisal is chairman of the King Faisal Centre for Research and Islamic Studies in Riyad, Saudi Arabia. He is a former director of Saudi intelligence and ambassador to the United States, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

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P H OTO S CO U RT E SY M ACG I L L I V R AY F R E E M A N F I L M S .

Here and far right, scenes from “Arabia 3D.”


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SPECIAL FEATURE | ROOTED IN STYLE

ROOTED IN STYLE

WASHINGTONIANS’ HIGH FASHION SENSIBILITIES MAY NOT BE READILY APPARENT BUT THEY RUN DEEP BY STEFANIE BALL AND NICHOLE DEVOLITES I L LU ST R AT I O N BY N I L A C U R RY


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ashington is known for power, politics, history and culture. To those attuned to the rapid pace of the nation’s capital, we’re adding one more to the list: style. Outsiders don’t realize that the city’s fashion roots do run deep. From prestigious art schools and well-known designers calling the District their home to the numerous well-dressed political, business and entertainment figures who live here, there is an aesthetic sensibility that reveals itself far beyond White House state dinners and Georgetown parties. It can be seen in the streets, worn by the people who make things work. During the day, Washington is all about power suits, nondescript shoes and sensible handbags. Those lacking a trained eye don’t realize that the suit is bespoke, the shoes crafted by high-end designers and the handbag priced at $5,000. When the lights go down, an amazing fashion transformation occurs. Individuality and luxury style take center stage. A sea of navy and black transforms into glittering, floor-length gowns, Italian silk dinner jackets and gems that could light up the darkest night sky. At hundreds of balls

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and galas each year you’ll hear the names “Oscar de la Renta,” “Marchesa,”“Valentino” and “Chanel” murmured by the glamorous women and men replying to the inevitable (if ungramattical) question, “Who are you wearing?” It’s no wonder then that for decades, designers, artists and other talents have come to Washington to train and study at prestigious art schools such as the Corcoran College of Art and Design (notable for Tim Gunn – also a former District resident). Fashionable residents have helped create an underground hub for emerging global designers, photographers and stylists. For others, including Michael Kors, Paul Sinclair and Christian Soriano, Washington is a second home. Just in the past year, visits by Betsey Johnson, Anne Fontaine, Nicole Miller, David Yurman, Rachel Roy, Oscar de la Renta, Carmen Marc Valvo, Tina Knowles (among others) confirm that local residents not only understand style but are willing to pay for it. And so, in the following pages, we celebrate Washingtonians who – despite what outsiders may say – wear it so well, even if their intent is classified.

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SPECIAL FEATURE | WL FASHION

TREND EXPERT

TIFFANY CARTER

KARA ALLAN STYLE FOR HIRE

"The printed mini is a great addition to any woman’s wardrobe, it shows off great legs and a svelte figure. The key to this look is choosing a print that doesn’t overpower the woman wearing it, or so distracting that all you see is the dress and not the beauty rocking it. And lastly, check that the length isn’t so short that you can’t bend over without flashing everyone! Fingertip length is usually acceptable." REBECCA TAYLOR Pom Pom silk tunic dress, ($365); The Shops at Wisconsin Place, 4412 Willard Avenue, Chevy Chase, Md.

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AM AN DA M CC LE ME NT S AN D JE FF D UF OU R

MEGAN HOOD

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CAROLINA DESOUZA

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Mermaid GREEN

TREND EXPERT

LANI INLANDER STYLE FOR HIRE

ADAM STIEFFEL AND BLAIR BOURNE

MA RI SSA MI TR OV

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PHILIPPA HUGHES

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"What I’m loving about mermaid green right now is that it feels unexpected, yet screams totally gorgeous. Also, we haven’t seen it in awhile which makes it new and fresh. Compared to the electric blue and turquoise we have seen the last few years, this color is much more refined and appropriate for all ages."

CYNTHIA STEFFE "Wesley" silk ruffled dress, ($365); The Shops at Wisconsin Place, 4412 Willard Avenue, Chevy Chase, Md.

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SPECIAL FEATURE | WL FASHION

TREND EXPERT

Stepping Out in

Sequins MARISSA MITROVICH

ROBIN JONES STYLE FOR HIRE

"Sequins, the ultimate in glamour and luxe, aren’t just for the holidays or evening anymore. Just like white and patent leather, sequins can work year round. Throw on a sequin tunic with leggings and a jean jacket for a fun weekend look or toss a sequin top in your briefcase to transition your business suit to a cocktail party effortlessly. Try a sequin scarf with almost any outfit, it won’t disappoint."

JE RE SE K IM BR OU

GET THIS LOOK

MARY AWOSIKA

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JOIE "Jaden" sequin striped silk top, ($338); The Shops at Wisconsin Place, 4412 Willard Avenue, Chevy Chase, Md. CYNTHIA CARVAJAL

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STRUCTURED

ruffles

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CARRIE MARRIOTT

ELIZABETH GIBBENS STYLE FOR HIRE CA MI LL A MC CA

SL IN

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AURETA THOMALLAN

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WHITE HOUSE BLACK MARKET Vineyard print shell, ($88); The Shops at Wisconsin Place, 4412 Willard Avenue, Chevy Chase, Md.

"Ruffles are a versatile trend, but must be done right. The updated flourish is not a flounce that visually widens by cutting a straight swath across the body, nor is it a prairieinspired pastiche. As chic Washingtoniennes show, a riff of a ruffle draws the eye toward the face or the legs. Strategically placed, petal-like tiers enhance the bust and create an hourglass figure. Asymmetrical petallike folds add drama to a shift dress."

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SPECIAL FEATURE | WL FASHION

TREND EXPERT

Chic in a

Blazer SARAH JESSICA PARKER

MARGARET LILLY STYLE FOR HIRE

"A blazer is the only silhouette with the ability to sharpen any look. It anchors your outfit and it is the ultimate topper. Feeling too trendy? Top your look with a classic blazer to balance things out.Too casual in your jeans and tee? Step things up with your favorite blazer and pumps. Too demure in that dress? Transform the look with a touch of “menswear” by adding a blazer. Make it your own with the “pop, scrunch and roll”: Pop the collar, scrunch the sleeves, roll the cuffs."

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KATHERINE KENNEDY

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A ND AS HL EY TAYLOR ON PA ME LA SO RE NS

AQUA Three-quarter sleeve linen blazer, ($88); The Shops at Wisconsin Place, 4412 Willard Avenue, Chevy Chase, Md.

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RED HOT

philanthropist

SUSAN LEHRMAN talks about her style sense and shares a few secrets on how she plans to organize another magical Opera Ball.

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ot satisfied with Washington’s typical “dinner and talking heads” events, philanthropist Susan Lehrman combined her business savvy and flair for all things creative to craft some of the city’s most memorable galas. The visionary behind the Washington National Opera Ball for the past three years, Lehrman has ushered in a new era of cultural diplomacy in the nation's capital, partnering with embassies to create stunning events that spotlight cultural connections. She is planning to out-do herself on May 7, when the ball will be hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China for the first time.

DESCRIBE YOUR OWN PERSONAL STYLE

In everything I do, I strive to create connections, and I really do enjoy entertaining. At home, I prefer a comfy, warm, low-key style. With my events, especially the Opera Ball, I work to create evenings that are unique, relevant and encourage guests to engage with each other. The arts really are the perfect vehicle to bring people together, so I try to highlight cultural commonalities and each country’s unique artistic heritage. HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHERE TO CONCENTRATE YOUR PHILANTHROPIC EFFORTS?

I have a special affinity for arts and culture; music and especially vocal performance have been part of my life since I was a child.The arts serve an important function: they define us as a society, they ground us and they provide common ground for people from all walks of life. I

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support organizations that exemplify these values and project them broadly. We’re here in the nation’s capital, so it’s incredibly important to support organizations that can represent both our city and our country on the world’s stage. Opera, being the most international of all art forms, meets all these criteria and then some! HOW DID YOUR SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP WITH WASHINGTON NATIONAL OPERA DEVELOP?

I began serving on the WNO board more than a decade ago. In 2008, the chance to chair the Opera Ball presented itself, and I saw an opportunity to create a signature event that would directly benefit the company in so many ways. It was an amazing chance to combine things I care about — entertaining, the arts, connecting people — with a very important cause.

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SPECIAL FEATURE | NEW YORK FASHION WEEK

NEW YORK

WL

FA S H I O N WE E K FEBRUARY IS ALL ABOUT LOVE AND FASHION – BUT MAINLY FASHION HERE ARE THE TRENDS WE FELL IN LOVE WITH

BOHEMIAN URBAN CHIC Edgy sophistication and the revival of indigenous cultural prints were big this year. ADAM drew inspiration from Alaska's Native American tribes while Mara Hoffman’s collection exuded "spiritual warrior” flair. Rebecca Minkoff offered a combination of luxury and urban bohemia – don't be surprised to see stores filled with silk prints, leather and fur this fall in an attempt to induce you to dramatically upgrade your style. Designers are also saying not to be afraid of dressing up wardrobes with bright shades of red or mixing textures with unconventional fabrics. ADAM’s foliage-inspired feathered mini-skirt and black cable-knit wool sweater is the perfect way to embrace fall and blend in with nature. The spiritual warrior look might not overtake Washington – long, black capes with thick eyeliner aren't the best choice for Capitol Hill – but embracing your inner priestess and layering dresses with big sweaters will create a flowing layered silhouette that will have District denizens singing "Hail to the Cheiftress."

TADASHI SHOJI MARA HOFFMAN

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DUCKIE BROWN

TOMMY HILFIGER

NAUTICA

HéRVE LéGER

FLOWY GLAMOUR AND 19TH-CENTURY ROYALTY Vivienne Tam, Hervé Léger by BCBG and Zang Toi gave evening wear a sparkling twist this season. Tadashi Shoji and Farah Angsana’s collections went one step further by adding a Middle Eastern color scheme. Angsana’s interpretation of vibrant royal blue and yellow hues was also notable. We loved red- and black-accented fur collars, ruffled shoulder shrugs and sparkling cocktail dresses with feathers peaking through the pleats. All should bring dimension and a 19th-century aesthetic to department stores and ballroom dance floors soon enough. Our favorite piece was Shoji’s capped–sleeved dress with yards-upon-yards of fuchsia chiffon. Fear not twenty-somethings, you can indulge in ultra-sexy looks, too, thanks to Hervé Léger. The brand's bandaged, matrix-inspired dresses – made for divas only, of course – will bring out your inner "fearless confident woman," according to designer Lubov Azria. Final take: Washington: fuchsia rules!

ZANG TOI

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| MARCH

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TEXTURED AND GENDER TWISTS Let's talk menswear. Duckie Brown’s latest line for the modern man refines business attire via relaxed suits, a staple of his fall collection. Brown’s pairing of a wool cream blazer and trousers with a gray silk cotton T-shirt is simple and elegant. We can definitely see this look on stylish men in the District, given our notoriously fluctuating mildto-cold fall and winter temperatures. Brown’s collection had lots of gray but diverged to include some bark and light forest green shearling coats. Fur is back guys , so don’t be afraid to add dramainfused big coats to your repertoire. Meanwhile, Tommy Hilfiger presented androgynous collections for both sexes. Female models walked the redcarpeted runway in structured tailored suits with velvet and red wool plaids. Norman Ambrose’s interpretation of the modern businesswoman translated into everything cashmere, wool and mink in addition to ostrich-feathered skirts and flapper dresses. All are looks that we expect to hit Washington later this year.

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LIFESTYLES | GLITTERATI

Classics Reborn Whether inspired by social doyennes of yesteryear or forged anew﹐ these baubles are destined to be timeless﹒

ODE TO HISTORY Take note from a more sophisticated time, when Caroline Astor (this collection’s inspiration) and other society queens wore major jewels for their post-opera midnight suppers. St. Regis Collection by Alexis Bittar. Lucite and pearls. ($310-$490); St. Regis Hotel, Washington, D.C. or www.alexisbittar.com.

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EASY PIECES No need to stash these away for conservative dinners with heads of state. Adorning a casual look, a simple, elegant strand of pearls feels fresh, yet timeless. Mikimoto Akoya 16-in. strand pearl necklace with 18-kt. white gold clasp and 7-mm pearls. ($2,580); Fink’s Jewelers, www.finks.com.

COCKTAIL GLAMOUR The new classic cocktail ring catches your eye with unexpected details like architectural contours. Jorge Adeler Signature one-of-a-kind 18-kt. two-toned ring with 40.60ct. natural Rutelated Quartz and 2.31-ct. diamonds. ($22,390); Adeler Jewelers, www.adelerjewelers.com.

LASTING IMPRESSION A cascade of diamonds makes a statement that is not only delicate but leaves a memorable impression. DeBeers Arpeggia eleven-line 18-kt. gold necklace with 73 total ct. round white diamonds and nine-line 18-kt. gold bracelet with 32 total ct. round white diamonds (both $375,000); DeBeers, Tysons Galleria, 703-821-1422.

CAMELOT CAMEO Some things never go out of style, like famed Tiffany designer Jean Schlumberger’s enamel bracelets, one of Jacqueline Kennedy's favorites. Enamel and 18-kt. gold. ($25,000$30,000); Tiffany & Co., www.tiffany.com.

ROYAL RING Destined for heirloom status, Liljenquist & Beckstead’s “Lady Di” ring adds a royal touch. Sapphire and 18-kt. white gold. Available in other stones. (Starts at $7,500); Liljenquist & Beckstead, Tysons Galleria, 703-749-1200.

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LIGHT AND DARK STRUCTURE AND FLOW – CONTRASTING PIECES ADD MYSTERY AND ALLURE TO ANY ENSEMBLE PHOTOGRAPHER TIM COBURN ART DIRECTOR JAMES CORNWELL STYLING WILL LAWRY & TARA PAPANICOLAS HAIR LORETTA JAMESON & INHAY KIM FOR PR AT PARTNERS MAKEUP KATHY ARAGON USING FACE ATELIER & OCC MAKEUP MODEL KATY BEAL FOR Q MANAGEMENT SHOOT ASSISTANTS ASHLEY LAWRENCE & ORIANA LAYENDECKER PHOTOGRAPHED AT TIM COBURN STUDIO IN FAIRFAX VA WWW TIMCOBURNPHOTO COM

Opposite: MARCHESA black dress ($725); Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus.com. FALKE thigh-high tights and vintage hat (stylist’s own). SIBILIA hammered cuff ($140); Charm Georgetown, www.charmgeorgetown.com. DI MODOLO bracelet ($1,650), necklace ($1,350); Fink’s, www.finks.com. RACHEL RACHEL ROY shoes ($89); Macy’s, www.macys.com.


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BILLY IDOL

Leather jacket ($1,740) and BCBG black leggings ($138); Bloomingdale’s, www. bloomingdales.com. SOUTH MOON UNDER silver crosses ($60) and silver link necklace ($38); South Moon Under, www.southmoonunder.com. Black leather studded belt ($480); Bloomingdale’s, www. bloomingdales.com.

This page: ELIZABETH & JAMES black blazer ($395), blouse ($245); THEORY leather shorts ($615); Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus. com. JEZABELLE’S Silver Belle’s shoes ($250); thejezaabelles@ gmail.com. JOHN HARDY long link necklace ($1,795); DAVID YURMAN hammered link bracelet ($695); IPPOLITA hammered cuff ($695), indigo ring ($695); Fink’s, www.finks.com. Opposite: DIANE VON FURSTENBURG camisole ($125); GIORGIO ARMANI pin striped pant ($850); ELIZABETH & JAMES black blazer ($395); Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus.com. PAULA MENDOZA jasper gold-dipped cuff ($620); Charm Georgetown, www. charmgeorgetown.com. REBECCA dangle earrings ($250); Fink’s, www. finks.com. Leather gloves (stylist’s own). RACHEL RACHEL ROY gray pumps, ($119); Macy’s, www.macys.com.

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STEVIE NICKS

SERGIO ROSSI, black laceup stiletto boots ($1160); Hu’s Shoes, www.husonline.com. JEAN PAUL GAULTIER dress (price upon request); Hu’s Wear, www.husonline.com. TIFFANY Oval link pendant ($350), Clove key pendant ($1,100), round pendant ($975) and Marrakesh Bangle ($4,950); Tiffany & Co., www.tiffany.com.

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This page: RACHEL RACHEL ROY military jacket ($159), crop pant ($189); RALPH LAUREN blouse ($139); Macy’s, www.macys.com. JEZABELLE’S gold wing booties ($350); thejezabelles@gmail.com. Feather top hat (stylist’s own). Opposite: SEE BYE CHLOE trench coat ($570); VERA WANGLAVENDER LABEL silk organza dress ($495); Neiman Marcus, www. neimanmarcus.com. JJ SINGH butterfly necklace ($875); JJ Singh, www.jjsinghjewelry.com. PAULA MENDOZA silver and raw amethyst ring ($490); Charm Georgetown, www.charmgeorgetown.com. RACHEL RACHEL ROY shoes ($89); Macy’s, www.macys.com.


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This page: PARKER blouse ($187); DIANE VON FURSTENBURG pencil skirt ($210); PRADA trench coat ($1,180); Neiman Marcus, www.neimanmarcus. com. ELEGANTLY WAISTED belt ($145); Cusp, www.cusp.com. JJ SINGH silver charm necklace ($645); JJ Singh, www.jjsinghjewelry.com. DAVID YURMAN woven cuff ($2,100); JOHN HARDY twister tiger bracelet ($795), twisted bracelet ($495); Fink’s, www. finks.com. JEZABELLE’S butterfly belle/black platform shoes ($350); thejezabelles@gmail.com.

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Maureen Orth, Susan Koch and Eric Chader

Carol Browner and Loretta Ucelli

ELLE’s Robbie Myers and Juleanna Glover

Jessica Yellin

Susan Brophy Tom Clancy

WL EXCLUSIVE

ELLE/LOUIS VUITTON HONOR 10 WASHINGTON WOMEN French Ambassador’s Residence PHOTOS BY BRETT BAGLEY

Penny Lee and Stephanie Schriock

POWER LAUNCH Strong and accomplished Washington women were fêted at the French Ambassador’s Residence when Elle magazine and Louis Vui on joined forces to launch the magazine’s new Style section. THE HONORED: Glamour shots were featured of the honorees: EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, former DC Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee, Linda Daschle, Maureen Dowd, MSNBC’s Savannah Guthrie, Stephanie Cu er, Dana Perino, Jaci Reid, CNN’s Kathleen Parker, and Share Our Strength’s Debbie Shore.

Savannah Guthrie, Capricia Marshall and Michelle Rhee

Julianna Smoot and Anne Olaimey

VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Alyssa Mastromonaco and Stephanie Cutter with Nancy and Harold Zirkin

Melissa Moss and Sandra Santiago

Tom and Linda Daschle

Amy Rule and Catherine Reynolds

Jaci Reid and Lisa Jackson

Renaud Dutreil and Louis Vuitton’s Geoffroy van Raemdonck


WL SPONSORED

FASHION TAKES FLIGHT 2011 The Adams Morgan Mansion PHOTOS BY ALFREDO FLORES

Charles Paret and Wilson Chang Virginia Borcherdt and Mark Drapeau

SARTORIAL SALUTE: Military service men and women joined young civilian overachievers on the catwalk at the 2011 Fashion Takes Flight Event featuring a rockin’ reception and fashion show of course! WORTHY CAUSE: Benefiting Luke’s Wings, an organization commi ed to reuniting families with wounded warriors currently hospitalized, the event featured the latest fashion trends in an innovative runway se ing. REVELERS: Guests enjoyed drinks and hors d’oeuvres at the main event and then moved on to an exclusive a er party. ROLL CALL: Luke’s Wings co-founder Fletcher Gill, Rachael Glaws, Lilly Harris, Ken Christensen, Donna Lee, Travis Andrews, Liz Owens and Lawrence O’Neal.

Sherie and Josh Schroeder

Annie Kulig

VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Stan Wood and Fletcher Gill

Amanda Polk and Courtney Caldwell

Model Lindsay Kin

Stine Batson and Mauri Systo Elaine Mensah, Ted Davis and Ebony Bell

Model Rachel De Mita

Kerry O’Donnell and Daniel Townsend WL EXCLUSIVE

PUT ON THE GLOVES FASHION SHOW

LaCountress Farrington, Raquel Savage Black, Riley Knoxx and Shi-Queeta Lee

Town Dance Boutique PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

FASHION FIGHTS BACK: LGBT youth were encouraged to “take on bullies one prom at a time” at the first annual “Put on The Gloves” Prom-Fashion Show, benefiting The Trevor Project and Capital Queer Prom. Over 200 guests joined celebrity stylist Phillip Bloch and co-host FOX 5’s Will Thomas to view avant-garde prom fashions and celebrate individuality before enjoying a special performance by Grammy Award-winning R&B artist Mýa. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Mýa

Will Thomas and Cat Ommanney


LIFESTYLES Luxury Travel | Kenya, Santa Monica, Half Moon Bay and Top Sommelier Ian Cauble

3.0

More than lions: Kenya’s tech-savvy youth, new constitution and vision for green growth and conservation offer a blueprint for Pan-African development. cy Conservan wa Wildlife Rhinos at Le

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AFRICA BY MICHAEL CLEMENTS PHOTOS BY ANCHYI WEI

lodge ge in Lewa. A portion of Safari chic at Siroki Lod ent. pm elo dev nity mu com to profits goes WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

“Lucy,” an australopithecine human ancestor, ruled the roost in the Great East African Rift Valley three million years ago. She’s now registered on Foursquare thanks to my handy opposable thumbs. How far we’ve come. Modern impressions of Africa, and Kenya by association, are caught up in images of despots, disease, famine, pirates and pop-star adoptions. Slowly, like life in the Great Rift Valley, that image is evolving. Fiber optic networks, SMS money transfers, micro-finance projects, a topperforming African stock exchange, a new constitution, wildlife conservation, clean energy and Google (yes, Google) might not be sexy enough for primetime, but they are part of the new Kenyan narrative and warrant as much

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com

attention as the mighty lions of the Maasai Mara and beaches of Mombasa. The state department’s webpage warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Kenya, but the site hasn’t been updated since a peaceful referendum that resulted in a new constitution – a major milestone in Kenya’s history. Traveling near Somalia in towns such as Lamu can still be dangerous, but the situation on the Sudanese and Ethiopian borders – the site of some of the world’s most dynamic safari destinations – has dramatically improved. THE SAFARI AND CONSERVATION COMPANY and other tour operators offer once-in-a-lifetime three-week helicopter camp safaris in that region for around $100,000*.

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Lewa Lodge at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Students at a school funded by Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

Nairobi National Park

A Maasai guide – each tribe wears a uniquely identifiable pattern.

u at n the men in Meat is o rant u a st e R Carnivore Nairobi.

DAY CONNECTING IN NAIROBI Fortytwo ethnic groups and all the world’s major religions are represented in Kenya. Add subSaharan and East African influences as well as the Maasai, and you have a recipe for infinite points of discovery. Tip: Glimpse Maasai culture by tracking down their traveling market. The word “Nairobi” translates to “place of cool waters.” And it was the city’s water that made it an ideal location at the turn of the 20th century to recharge and resupply after long trips from the coast to the hinterlands. The city also epitomizes “Africa 3.0.” A short 10-minute taxi ride from the famous NAIROBI SERENA HOTEL and you are in the Central Business District, where the sleepy interior of the Nairobi Stock Exchange belies its reputation as the continent’s fastest-growing exchange. Another 20 minutes and you are watching rhinos, giraffes and zebra roaming NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK the world’s only urban game preserve.

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Nairobi’s elevation and semi-arid terrain ensure dry, crisp and cloudless winter days (August is winter here) and cool nights reminiscent of Los Angeles (without the smog.) I’m sitting poolside sampling curry from the MANDHARI RESTAURANT with Mugo Kibati, director general of Kenya’s “Vision 2030,” a program focused on taking the country from a frontier economy to a middle income nation in the next 20 years. The MIT graduate represents a new generation looking to compete globally. “Kuala Lumpur was built based on Nairobi’s city plan,” Kibati explains with a sigh of mild exasperation. “Singapore also based its development plan on Kenya – look where they are today. Now, Vietnam is replicating our most profitable industries such as tea, coffee and flowers. We’ve lacked the implementation that has enabled these countries to succeed.” The new constitution offers a roadmap for change, but will implementation once again be Kenya’s Achilles heel? Check back in 2030.

Wide-open vistas on the Maasai Mara.

Our talk echoed in my head as I headed to NAIROBI NATIONAL PARK for late-day game drive. Tip: Entrance to the park is $40. Come with U.S. dollars and allow four hours. As the sun set and I typed in my last live safari tweet (“There’s a giraffe in the road!”), I recalled what Kibati had said about “M-Psea” money transfers via text message. Since its introduction three years ago, Kenyans have used it to transfer $4.26 billion. “This was a major development,” he told me. “It connected all of Kenya.” About 12 million Kenyans – 30 percent of the population – are making use of the mobile money transfer technology as of September 2010. Nonetheless, the gap between haves and have-nots remains wide – nowhere is this more evident than


View videos and our full photo journal on washingtonlife.com. in Nairobi’s Kibera slum – but technology is bridging the gap. We finished the night at the famous Nairobi eatery CARNIVORE. And, yes, that’s exactly what I felt like as I sampled diferent types of grilled kebab from crocodile to ostrich. It’s a must try. DAY NATURAL IN NAIVASHA Lake Naivasha is 65 miles from Nairobi and a great day trip. Highlights include LAKE OLOIDIEN, a volcanic crater home to flocks of pink flamingos as well as a number of flower farms. (Kenya produces 30 percent of the world’s cut flower supply.) Hippopotamus fans can mingle amid these aqualoving giants by hiring a boat at the HIPPO POINT PRIVATE ESTATE AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY. Nearby, HELLS’ GATE NATIONAL PARK is ideal for trekking, bird watching and taking in the area’s geological formations. On the way, you’ll notice a geothermal plant – the government is looking to double power generation to 2,000 megawatts by 2013 and 70 percent of it will be from Rift Valley geothermal plants, wind and solar sources. Up for a round of golf? Try THE GREAT RIFT VALLEY LODGE & GOLF RESORT, one of Kenya’s top country clubs and a haunt for local and international power players. (It has a private air strip, so it’s easy to get in and out.) The 18-hole championship course has sweeping views of the Rift Valley and is intermittently lined with luxury vacation homes boasting such modern amenities asin Santigo four-poster beds, handmade Presidential Square wooden furniture and large glass windows for taking in the magnificent views. The resort is an ideal weekend base before going on safari.

largest single herd of Grevy’s zebra. It might not be as stunning as the Maasai Mara, but it does provide visitors a more private, high-end safari experience. There’s also the “feel good” factor – it’s a nonprofit group; a portion of your fees goes directly to the surrounding community to build schools and provide access to clean water, healthcare and employment. At the awardwinning IL N’GWESI LODGE in the heart of Lewa, safari chic is de rigueur, but so is conservation. Notable guests, including Bill and Melinda Gates “enjoyed the privacy and our community involvement,” Lewa Wildlife Conservancy CEO Jonathan Moss told me over lunch. “In 1983, Lewa founders David and Delia Craig set aside 5,000 acres of their cattle ranch as a sanctuary,” the Oxford-educated Moss explains as a warthog waddles by 10 yards away. “At that time, the black rhino population in Kenya had dropped from 20,000 to below 300. Now the park alone has 111 rhinos, but poaching is a constant concern – a poacher can get up to $45,000 for a horn.” Besides stunning beauty and unbelievable access to wildlife, Lewa is a blueprint for community-based wildlife reserves. After lunch, we tour a local school and a water well funded by the conservancy.We also stop by the gorgeous SIROKI LODGE – its high-pitched thatched-roof lodges are tastefully appointed with stylish mixand-match African interiors, exquisite furniture and modern amenities. Zebras grazing in your backyard and elephants sauntering by in the distance add to the mystique. Rates start at $310 per night, depending on the season. Tip: Don’t travel here during the rainy month of November.

DAY LEWA WILDLIFE CONSERVANCY Spanning

62,000 acres, Northern Kenya’s Lewa is home to over 10 percent of Kenya’s black rhino population, over 14 percent of Kenya’s white rhinos and the world’s staurant in Mandhari Re bi Hotel ro ai N na re the Se

DAYS & DOING THE MARA Each year starting

in June, roughly 1.3 million wildebeest migrate through the great Serengeti Plains. In Kenya, the place to witness what’s been considered the “8th Wonder of the World” is on the wide-open grassy piedmont of Maasai Mara, a.k.a.“the Mara.”This is quintessential Africa. As far as the eye can see, burnt yellow and beige prairie grass landscapes punctuated by expansive valleys, buttes and lots of wildlife. Even our jaunt from the dirt runway to the plush MARA SERENA SAFARI LODGE was amazing as we passed great herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. Our Maasai guide must get a laugh out

Serena Beach Hotel and Spa, Mombasa.

of seeing the same looks of amazement from tourists each day. During peak season from July 1 to October 1, a double at the lodge runs $575. It’s worth every penny. Guests can take up to three game drives daily in custom-built open-sided sixperson safari vehicles with professional guides and refreshments. Tip:Try a cold Tusker Beer on safari. The goal is to see the “Big Five”: lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino. I saw the “Big Four” (no leopards for me.) Those, and the other 95 species of mammals and 550 species of birds keep you ever on the lookout for “the photo.” Safari traffic is the only drawback; there can be up to 20 other vans around a pack of lions. If you have the right guide, he’ll know how to avoid the human herds. Staying in the Mara means being eco-conscious. Power is turned off after 10 p.m. and guests are asked to be mindful of water consumption. Tip: Travel light! If your bags are too big or heavy you might not be able to bring them on small chartered planes. DAY MELTING IN MOMBASA I ended my trip

at the Indian Ocean coastal city of Mombasa. Long a crossroads for trade among Africa, the Middle East, India and Asia, Mombasa pulses with a variety of cultural influences. The food leans toward delicious curries and more, dare I say, Moroccan-esque dishes. THE SERENA BEACH HOTEL AND SPA keeps this cultural feeling alive by replicating the winding lanes and colorful market places of a traditional 13th-century Swahili town. At its heart lies the coral-built “Fortress of Tranquillity” and MAISHA MIND BODY AND SPIRIT SPA. After a blissful 45minute treatment, I found a comfy chaise longue to soak in the sun and ocean breezes. Soon, a camel strode by on the beach mounted by a man offering rides. I reached for my phone to send a TweetPic but stopped ... sometimes enjoying the moment in a “1.0” way is all you need. (*All prices in U.S. dollars.)

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LUXURY TRAVEL | HOTEL WATCH

The pool at Loews Santa Monica Beachfront Hotel.

Golden State of Mind LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACHFRONT HOTEL

QUICK TAKE This eco-conscious eightstory, 342-room Westside hot spot recently underwent a $7 million renovation. Rates start at $319 for a deluxe room with private terrace, an LCD flat-screen television and plush Doeskin bathrobes and go up to $850 for a grand king suite with a separate living area, terrace with sweeping ocean views and a deep soaking tub. For true luxury, check into the 2,192-square-foot Palm Suite with incomparable views of glittering beachfront ($3,500 per night). One of few hotels located right on the sand, Loews makes renting rollerblades and bikes fuss free and offers 24hour gourmet room service.

Santa Monica Farmers Markets. Snack on perfectly crisp popcorn shrimp with drinks on a beachside terrace overlooking the Pacific at sunset, then stroll a few hundred feet to bustling Santa Monica Pier. And don’t miss that quintessential Cali experience – sushi served with an ingenious twist by Executive Chef Keith Roberts as part of his “Sushi at Sunset” concept. Order Santa Monica Fog in a bamboo basket that unleashes a cloud of liquid nitrogen when you lift the lid.

BITES Dine fireside on “chilly” SoCal evenings at the hotel’s Ocean & Vine restaurant, where the food is locally sourced from the renowned

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BLISS Ocean Spa & Fitness puts your body and mind at rest with 7,000 square feet of “green” spa space and world-class treatments rivaling those offered by any resort in the world. Many treatments incorporate organic Pevonia Botanica products. Zone out with heated tiger clam shells infused with mineral-rich kelp and sea water with the hotel’s signature “Beachcomber” massage.

Ocean & Vine’s Sushi at Sunset elevates a quintessential L.A. experience.

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com

HOTEL PHOTOS COURTE SY LO EWS SANTA MONICA BEACHFRONT HOTEL

Chase away cold weather blues with a luxury stay in California


PH OTO BY M A R K N OR B ER G

Bagpipes at sunset.

THE RITZ-CARLTON HALF MOON BAY H OT E L P H OTO S CO U RT E SY R I T Z- C A R LTO N H A L F M O O N B AY

QUICK TAKE Open since March 2001, The RitzCarlton Half Moon Bay offers old-world elegance with dot.com cachet. Six stories and three adjacent cottages inspired by grand 19th-century seaside lodges remind many guests of Scotland because of their sweeping, cliffside ocean views and a bagpipe performance by a lone Scotsman in full dress at sunset. Room rates range from $335 for a courtyard view room with vistas of the Santa Cruz Mountains to $965 for a luxury suite with views of the Pacific plus a marble bath and fireplace.You can’t go wrong with any of the rooms, but for that truly “ritzy” experience even major moguls do need to reserve The Ritz-Carlton Suite ($2,900-$3,500 per night) well in advance.

P H OTO BY B L A K E M A RV I N

P H OTO BY R O N STA RR

Gazebo Lawn and a golf course with sea views at every hole.

Stunning cliffside views.

distinction of Maître Cuisinier de France (French Master Chef). Families can enjoy roasting s’mores over their very own firepit on the terrace. Wine lovers shouldn’t miss the “Fire & Wine Butler” service, which offers impromptu outdoor imbibing all around the hotel, or sampling flights from ENO Wine Bar’s stellar 5,000-bottle collection.

BLISS No California getaway would be complete without a spa day and there’s no place better than the one at the Ritz. Sixteen treatment rooms, gentlemen and ladies’ lounges with whirlpools, steam rooms and a Roman bath, among other amenities, afford 16,000 square feet of spa gives guests plenty of room numerous relaxation chjoices. Active guests to relax. (Photo by Ron Starr) can play the Arnold Palmer-designed Old BITES Low-key diners can expect understated elegance at Navio, Course at nearby Half Moon Bay Golf Links or the Ocean Course, a helmed by Xavier Salomon, one of two Ritz chefs to earn the Scottish Links-style layout with sea views from every hole.

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LUXURY TRAVEL | HOTEL WATCH

Private terraces with your own fire pit.

dominated by Syrah and Grenache, two of the greatest grapes in the world. Many of the best examples are found in California, Australia and the Rhone Valley in France. I believe Grenache, in particular, will be the next big hit in the U.S. It is very soft on the palate, like Pinot Noir, with more texture, body and an intensity of flavor if it is made with care. A great example is Stage Left Cellars Grenache 2007 from California’s Central Coast. PH OTO BY R ON STA R R

Tasting Notes Ian Cauble, the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay’s lead sommelier, discusses his favorite wines and vintages as well as top wine regions to watch in Italy, France and California. the white grapes Fiano, WL: What wines are younger Falanghina and Greco drinkers choosing right with Aglianico being very now? popular for red wines. All IAN CAUBLE Young of southern Italy is full consumers in particular are of great value, very foodmore willing to go out of friendly wines. De Conciliis their comfort zone to try new is a small producer I really wines from areas they have love from Campania. Feudi never heard of. One up-anddi San Gregorio is also a coming area is southern Italy, great source and probably where great wines are always easier to find due to larger popping up with amazing production. The 2007 value. The wines are an easy Ian Cauble, Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Greco di Tufo was amazing transition from domestic Bay’s award-winning sommelier. (Photo by Rick Camargo) for the price. selections because they are usually balanced with lots of fruit and a rich mouth feel, but still contain WL: Name a few underappreciated wines classic old world charm with earth and savory that need to be rediscovered. notes. Campania is becoming popular, led by IC: There are so many great values to be found

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WL: What wine among the Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay’s collection is a “must”? IC: A new Pinot Noir made by the Petite Abeille Winery in the Russian River Valley in Sonoma, California. The 2008 vintage yielded only 65 cases of this delicious wine and I begged for five of them. It’s incredibly soft and delicate. Fresh strawberry and candied rhubarb dominate with a touch of fresh sage and new oak. It is a perfect example of balanced California Pinot Noir at its best. On the list at $75, it’s a steal. It’s great with so many items on the menu yet it does not need food. WL: What region or winery is doing something truly original in the winemaking world? IC: Winemaker Pax Mahle in Sonoma County is making some interesting wines at Wind Gap Winery from rare white French grapes that are absolutely delicious. His Trousseau Gris, made in large concrete eggs, is a grape found in the Jura region of eastern France. It is rare, unique and not expensive, but try to find it! His Syrahs are incredible as well. WL: Chefs like to talk about their “last meal.” Do you have a “last wine”? IC: Domaine de la Romanée Conti, Le Romanée Conti, Grand Cru, 1962 out of large format. I have never had the wine, so it is an unlived fantasy I would have to experience. At $30,000 per bottle, it’s not a cheap last wish. A wine I would love to relive is the 1985 Montrachet (Burgundy, France), made by Domaine Ramonet out of a magnum at an exclusive Pebble Beach wine dinner last year. A truly perfect Chardonnay. The best wine of my life.

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Ceviche de Seafood

Sandoval’s Ceviche Richard Sandoval, the celebrity chef host of this year’s Pink Tie Party, shares his favorite ceviche recipes B Y R I C H A R D S A N D O VA L , O W N E R A N D C H E F , ZENGO AND MASA 14

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opened Zengo (Japanese for “give and take”) in Washington in 2005, and more recently Masa 14 in 2009. In a way, the merging of cultures and cuisines in my restaurants complements the wonderful gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees that the city of Tokyo gave to Washington in 1912. Almost a century later, the gift serves as a lasting reminder of friendship and peace, and is celebrated each year during the nation’s greatest springtime celebration, the National Cherry Blossom Festival. In my cuisine, the potential of Latin cooking is endless, and by combining native ingredients with unexpected Asian flavors, a whole new world of possibilities arises.

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As I learned from my grandmother many years ago, fresh, authentic ingredients should be respected, and they serve as the pinnacle of my culinary style. Ceviches are simple, yet complex dishes where vibrant ingredients are the stars. They’re among my favorite spring dishes. I am thrilled and thankful to the Washington dining community for its tremendous support and response to Zengo and Masa 14. After several years of opening restaurants across the nation, I could not be more excited to return here with yet another restaurant this summer - El Centro D.F. – a Mexican taqueria.

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LIFESTYLES | CELEBRITY CHEF

Ceviche de Seafood SEAFOOD CEVICHE / SWEET AND SPICY TOMATO BROTH Ceviche de Halibut

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

Ceviche de Halibut

HALIBUT / MANGO / JICAMA / CILANTRO-MINT-CHIVE JUICE Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

PROCEDURE

• 1 pound cleaned, diced halibut • 1 tablespoon sea salt • 1 cup lemon juice (for marination) • Piece red onion, chopped • 1 cup lemon juice (for broth) • 1 cup chopped cilantro • 1/3 cup chopped mint • 1 cup chopped chives • Salt to taste • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil • 1 cup diced jicama • cup diced mango

1. Place the halibut in a non-reactive bowl. Add salt, lemon juice and onion. Let marinate for 1 hour in refrigerator. 2. Place lemon juice, cilantro, mint, chives and salt in a blender. Purée. 3. Add olive oil in a steady stream while blending and then set aside. 4. Add the mixture to the halibut that has been marinated. 5. Add jicama, mango, chile jalapeño and adjust seasoning.

SEAFOOD • 3/4 pound mixed, fresh calamari, shrimp and octopus • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice SWEET AND SPICY TOMATO BROTH • 1 cup ketchup • 1 cup bottled “Buffalo” sauce (traditional spicy bottled sauce available at Mexican grocery stores) • 1 cup tomato juice • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice • 2 tablespoons lime juice • 2 tablespoons honey, or to taste • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 cup diced tomato (1/4 inch) • 1 cup diced white Spanish onion (1/4 inch) • 2 pieces of Serrano pepper, thinly sliced • 1 quarter cup cilantro, chopped GARNISH (optional) Bonito flakes

C Richard Sandoval To purchase tickets and obtain more information about the Pink Tie Party, go to nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/pinktie

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elebrate the season of the blossoms! Don’t miss Richard Sandoval, the celebrity chef/host of this year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Pink Tie Party, co-presented by Macy’s and OpenSkies! Enjoy delicious cherry-inspired dishes and cocktails by over 30 top area chefs and mixologists. March 23 at The Mayflower® Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel. 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. $150/person; $250/ VIP Experience (6:30 - 8:30 p.m.)

PROCEDURE Seafood Clean calamari and octopus, de-vein and peel shrimp, and dice into 1/4-inch pieces. In a non-reactive medium bowl, fold together the seafood mixture and lemon juice with a rubber spatula. Cover and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sweet and spicy tomato broth 1. In a non-reactive medium bowl, stir in ketchup, buffalo sauce, tomato juice, orange juice, lime juice, honey and salt. 2. Add the seafood mixture and lemon juice to the broth, along with diced tomato, onion, pepper and cilantro, folding together with a rubber spatula. 3. To serve, divide the seafood mixture among martini glasses or shallow bowls. 4. Garnish each with bonito flakes.

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WASHINGTON S O C I A L D I A R Y Around Town﹐ International Red Cross Ball﹐ Washington Winter Show and Exclusive Parties﹐ Parties﹐ Parties!

Jack Davies and Michelle Freeman at the Year Up Gala. (Photo by Tony Powell)

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AROUND TOWN

White-Tie Affair Ambassadors, luminaries shimmer and shine at the Red Cross Ball in Palm Beach BY DONNA SHOR

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he 54th annual International Red Cross Ball drew more capital-connected guests to Palm Beach than ever before, thanks to ball co-chairman Mary Mochary, a Washington resident. The same can-do team headed the ambassador-studded event once again at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Club: general chairman Michele Kessler and co-chairman Susan Keenan, with added support from Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, the first woman to serve as chairman of the American Red Cross. All are accomplished and lend time to healthrelated causes. From the podium, McElveenHunter lauded Kessler’s hands-on approach, including helping to vaccinate children in Madagascar against measles. That’s dedication. Instead of joining nitty-gritty medical missions, Kessler could have relaxed in her art-filled $30 million Palm Beach mansion. (Her husband. Howard Kessler, created the “affinity”credit cards that grant rewards when the sponsoring group’s card is swiped.) Susan Keenan, a District dweller when married to former Rep. Barry Goldwater Jr., later spent 12 years as an ABC anchorwoman in Washington and San Francisco. She now works on cancer eradication causes and is married to Palm Beach businessman James Keenan. Dimpled philanthropist Mochary’s many undertakings have benefited from her degrees in law and economics: she administers her family’s foundation, has served as mayor of Montclair, N.J., and as a legal advisor to the state department. She recently distributed medicines and other necessities during a Red Cross mission to Darfur. Completing the Fab Four is powerhouse McElveen-Hunter, a former U.S ambassador to

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Palm Beach legend Brownie McLean has attended the International Red Cross Ball more than 40 times. (Photo by Lucien Capehart).

Finland and founder of Pace Communications Inc., the nation’s largest custom publishing firm. A sparkplug at any event, she is laser-focused on the Red Cross goal of aiding victims of disasters, wars and disease. Palm Beachers also credit her with smoothing ruffled feathers and thereby restoring the important Red Cross Ball fund-raiser to its former glory after a divisive interlude. These high achievers are far removed from the ball’s dowager queens of yore, whose exertions, by contrast, seem limited to poring over guest lists while nibbling chocolate creams – excepting, of course, the dynamic Marjorie Merriweather Post and Betty Knight Scripps. Another fabulous woman, one who has seen it all, clocked her 41st Red Cross Ball this year seated at McElveen-Hunter’s table. That would be the legendary “Brownie” (Mrs. John R.) McLean, dubbed the “Queen of Palm

Beach” in numerous books and magazines. When she married her late husband, “Jock” McLean, the very eligible son of Evalyn Walsh McLean (onetime owner of the 45-carat Hope Diamond), Brownie was the toast of New York. She had homes there and in Paris, spent the season on the Riviera, followed the races at Ascot, traveled with royalty and acquired a society page parking space she still inhabits. She has a lively mind, ready laughter and a loveable inability to say anything bad about others in this gossipy town. (Full disclosure: she is a longtime friend who hosts me at her handsome Coconut Row address when I come down for the ball. ) At ten each morning, friends and admirers start calling to check in. About noon she’ll say, “Well, now the evening is organized” and she may head off to lunch at her beloved Everglades Club. Come dusk, she dons her dancing shoes and heads out with her floating entourage for dinner and perhaps a few late-night stops at local hotspots. Those entourages have backed her charities, above all Red Cross events, where she has sponsored as many as four tables per evening. In recent years Brownie has worked with space travel groups, and is now focused on the “Mission to Mars” program. Brownie refused her mother-in-law’s offer of the diamond when she married Jock, and never touched it because “it spooked her with a reddish glow whenever she approached.” Later, financial reverses forced Evalyn to sell the gem, so the curse continued for her. In 1958 jeweler Harry Winston donated the gem to the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History. Public Affairs Director Randall Kremer estimates that six to seven million visitors a year file by its bullet-proof glass case.

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Donald Trump with Marie Royce and Rep. Ed Royce

WL EXCLUSIVE

Wilma and Stuart Bernstein

THE INTERNATIONAL RED CROSS BALL The Mar-a-Lago Club, Palm Beach, Fla.

Mary Mochary and Xavier Equihua

PHOTOS BY LUCIEN CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY

Joe Smoak

Norma and Bill Tiefel

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H.R.H. Princess Madeleine of Sweden and Howard Kessler

Michele Kessler and Bonnie McElveen-Hunter

Netherlands Amb. Renee Jones-Bos and Richard Jones-Bos

Liechtenstein Amb. Claudia Fritsche with Dr. Michael Olding (right)

Mexican Amb. Arturo Sarukhan and Veronica Valencia

Mike and Julie Connors

Barry M. Goldwater III, Susan Keenan and Nick Keenan

Dr. Ahmad and Judy Esfandiary

Danielle and Alfredo Ortiz

Bob Leidy Jr. and Sasha Lickle


OVER THE MOON

Winter Haven for the Horsey Set Hunt Country residents swarm to the Sunshine State for equestrian training, show jumping and a few rounds of golf BY VICKY MOON

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here’s no question that a crackling fire and a cozy corner are no longer enough to keep Hunt Country residents content during the winter tundra. (And for the record, an electric blanket won’t work either.) Hence the migration south from Middleburg to Florida is in full flight. We have the Horse Show Set who are in Wellington for the winter: trainer Denise Perry and hubby Roy have settled in with horses and several riders including Ashley Burke, granddaughter of Elizabeth Busch Burke and Bobby Burke (who have a home in the Sunshine State and live just across the lane from Bunny Mellon in Upperville). Heather Berge is showing her jumpers – and her significant other Chris McClary meets her on weekends. Viviane and Pat Garner have settled into their Lately t h e re digs. Betsey Parker has has been a fulla slew of horses and on emigration. ponies, including her Leading the way: prize-winning hunters Top: Nelson Hammell has moved his elegant Lone Star and Listen. Nelson Hammell , garden store to Lake Worth, Fla. (Photo by Vicky Moon) Above: Huntsman Noel Ryan is taking over Olympic gold medalist whose English the Palm Beach Hounds. (Photo by Jim Meads) garden emporium, Joe Fargis is coaching Devonshire, once and riding. Barbara Gosnell has joined the stable and will be there graced the village of Middleburg (along with for the winter with her husband Bud. Donna locations in the Hamptons and other high-end Gumbin traveled south from The Plains and spots). For 30-plus years, Hammell and business trainer Ginny Edwards of Upperville has student Charlotte Thompson under her wing. partner Pete Hawkins’ elegant garden statuary, Trainers Kitty and John Barker are also down oversized glazed pots, obelisks and orchids took the breath away of all those who entered for the season. And then there are the golfers who have their cavernous Worth Avenue location on the flown south for a few rounds: Larry Davis, island of Palm Beach. Then they decided to Charley Matheson, Merritt Jones and Joan take another approach with the business and move to the other side of the Intracoastal and Bob Eliot, to name a few.

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Waterway to the ever-eclectic West Palm Beach design district. Now located in a warehouse just steps away from a cluster of Dixie Highway antique shops, wallpaper outlets, marble experts and lighting showrooms, Hammell has taken up full time residence in tony Lake Worth with extra time off to travel to his homes in Middleburg and Vermont. Dashing and daring Irishman Noel Ryan began riding to hounds in his home country at the tender age of five. “I started with the Stonehall Harriers and also with the County Limerick Foxhounds,” he says. Since coming to the U.S. in 2003 he has gone tally-ho from California, New Mexico, Nevada, Arizona, Nebraska, Montana and beyond, even to New Zealand and Australia. Since 2006, Ryan has lived in Middleburg and served as a professional huntsman for the Loudoun Hunt.Yearning for new ventures he took a job with the Palm Beach Hounds. And yes, they will hunt foxes, not gators! The adorable Sheila Camp Motley of Keswick became a full-time Florida resident last year when she opened her own event design and management firm. “Based under a row of South Florida palm trees, we work with clients to design and connect all of the little details that create each memorable event,” she says. So far this winter, Motley has done the Shady Ladies benefit for the Lupus Research Institute featuring a celebrity sunglasses auction with donations from Snoop Dogg, Bruce Springsteen, Sylvester Stallone, John Grisham and Kim Kardashian. And, don’t forget the book signing for “The World of Gloria Vanderbilt” at Badgley Mischka in Palm Beach. More sunscreen please.

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Malcolm Matheson and Colvin Matheson

Michael Harreld, Lady Sheinwald, Sir Nigel Sheinwald and Susan Harreld

Steven and Katie Gewirz

Skippy and Michael Miller with JoAnn Zuercher

WL SPONSORED

Jack Ritchie, Wayne Gibbens, Jay Adams and Henry Wheelwright

Sarah Canova, Sweet Dupuy and Coleman Brown

ANTIQUES SHOW OPENING American University Katzen Art Center

David Decklebaum with Fred and Genevieve Ryan and Robert Higdon Chairwomen Kate Chartener and Debbie Winsor

PHOTOS BY KYLE SAMPERTON

REVIVAL STYLE The much-anticipated Washington Winter Show opened with a new name, a glamorous opening night and two very hard-working chairwomen, Debbie Winsor and Kate Chartener, who looked no further than their own neighborhood for this year’s theme, “Georgetown: 200 Years of Style.” ON OFFER With support from presenting sponsor PNC Bank and its regional president, Michael Harreld, 45 of the nation’s top antiques dealers offered their finest objets on all three floors. ON DISPLAY: British Ambassador Sir Nigel Sheinwald and Lady Sheinwald, the honorary patrons, previewed an extraordinary collection of le ers, clothing, jewelry and other objects once owned by the Peter family, the former owners of historic Tudor Place. BENEFICIARIES Starlight MidAtlantic, TheARC, The Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys and St. John’s Community Services.

Barry and Palmer Graham

Marcia Mayo and Bothwell Lee

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Ellen Charles, Kate Markert and Leslie Buhler

Jacqueline Mars and Morgan Delaney

Chris and Anne Sargent

Karen Robins and Holly Bolter


Dancers Antonio Douthit and Constance Stamatiou

Karen J. Reedy and Artistic Directordesignate Robert Battle

B. Michael and Myrna Colley-Lee Gala Co-Chairwoman Gina Adams

Paula Cuello and Richard Wolffe

Gala Co-Chairwoman Debra Lee with Ronald and Beth Dozoretz

WL EXCLUSIVE

ALVIN AILEY GALA

Katharine Weymouth Elliot Totah and Annie Totah

The Kennedy Center PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Henry Harris and Rebecca FishmanHarris, Stacie and Jason Turner Sharon Gersten Luckman

Vanessa Reid

LOOKING BACK: Judith Jamison greeted the opening night audience by crediting company founder Alvin Ailey’s genius, especially his creation of “Revelations,” a signature work that continues to enthrall viewers 50 years a er its premiere. LOOKING FORWARD: “I’m sleeping well knowing there is a talented, inspirational, maverick of a man who will follow me,” she said, by way of introducing her successor, Robert Ba le, whose 2006 work. “The Hunt,” provided the performance’s most electrifying moments. NEW YORK-STYLE CAST PARTY: A record number (600-plus) of benefactors soon abandoned their desserts and coffee to boogie with the dancers until well a er midnight – a rare achievement on a cold and gloomy Tuesday night in Washington. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Dancers Guillermo Asca, Aisha Mitchell, Daniel Harder and Jermaine Terry Natasha Watkins, Rebecca FishmanHarris, Lori Soto and Karen Donatelli Chris Cowan and Judith Jamison Shashrina Thomas and Blake Kimbrough


Tandy and Wyatt Dickerson with Christina Culver

Photo courtesy Shen Yun Performing Arts

Annette Lantos, Hungarian Amb. György Szapáry and Katrina Lantos-Swett

Tom and Beverly Malatesta WL SPONSORED

Susan Ginsburg, Ina Ginsburg and Jeffery Pain Shen Yun Artistic Director Tia Zhang

Emcee Jared Madsen

SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS RECEPTION Kennedy Center Opera House PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Stephen and Pia-Maria Norris Photo courtesy Shen Yun Performing Arts

TRUE BEAUTY Shen Yun Performing Arts has been called “a visually dazzling tour of 5,000 years of Chinese history and culture,” and the troupe got a well-deserved standing ovation from a captivated audience a er the curtain went down. “The show was absolutely beautiful. It was so inspiring,” said Robert Stromberg, the AcademyAward-winning production designer of “Avatar.” “I give this production five stars, that’s the top!” added Richard Connema of Talkin’ Broadway. “The best word to use is ‘mind-blowing.’” CULTURAL AFICIONADOS: Among those spo ed at the post-performance reception were Prince Ermias Selassie, Annie Totah, Lawrence and Pat Skantze and Bob Kasten.

Gabrielle and Andrea Cecchi

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Nancy Wang, Madeline Lobjois and Chelsea Cai

Russ and Laura Gerson


Marsha Mayo and Lolo Sarnoff

Lucky Roosevelt, Marina Stiajkina and Donna McLarty

Susan Lehrman and Anne Pohanka

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Elaine Chao and Shelly Hymes

OPERA BALL LADIES LUNCHEON Hay-Adams Hotel PHOTOS BY KYLE SAMPERTON

Ina Ginsburg, Rohini Talalla, Cidalia Akbar and Natalia Monteiro

SINGING PRAISES: Guests savored mushroom ravioli and meringue macaroons while honoring Chen Naiqing at a luncheon sponsored by the Washington National Opera at the newly re-opened Top of the Hay roo op. THANKS IN ADVANCE: Hosted by Opera Ball chairwoman Susan Lehrman, the event recognized the guest of honor’s accomplishments as minister counselor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Naiqing will host the 2011 Opera Ball later this spring along with her husband, Chinese Ambassador Zhang Yesui. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Renée Fleming and Neale Perl

Jill Udall and Chen Naiqing

Flavia and Barden Gale, Ellen Noghès and Amb. Of Monaco Gilles Noghès

Denyse Aaron, Oscar Cury-Paniagua and Grace Bender WL EXCLUSIVE

JoAnn Mason and Barbara Harrison

WPAS Chairman Reggie Van Lee, Ruth Sorenson, Shirley Marcus Allen and Arne Sorenson

RENÉE FLEMING HONORED Residence of Bonnie McElveen-Hunter PHOTOS BY JEREMY NOREWOOD

DIVA DIVINA: Fans thrilled to warmly luxuriant lieder by Korngold, Zemlinsky and Strauss at Renée Fleming’s sold-out Kennedy Center concert and remained glued to their seats for encores that included Puccini’s “O mio babbino caro” as well as “I Feel Pre y” and “Somewhere” from Leonard Bernstein’s “West Side Story.” PATRONS’ PERK: Washington Project for the Arts benefactors flocked to welcome the “Reigning American Soprano” at an a er-party hosted by Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, who likened Fleming’s voice to “the supreme expression of joy itself.”

Bonnie McElveen-Hunter and David Rubenstein

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Catherine Reynolds and Eric Motley

Buffy Cafrtiz and Calvin Cafritz


Ken and Dorothy Woodcock

Fidel Garcia and Claudia Gomez

Amy and Brett Baier, Tripp and Amy Donnelly and Stacy and Greg Lubar Diane Brown, Sharon Bradley and Jamie Dorros

Michelle and Richard Leiby

Alison Bibbee and Jessica Melugin

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OPERA MIDWINTER FIESTA Mexican Cultural Institute PHOTOS BY KYLE SAMPERTON

Craig Suza and Ronny Bodden Bobbie Brewster and Ken Woodcock

Mexican Amb. Arturo Sarukhán and Veronica Valencia with Michael and Patricia Oxley Brandon Flury and Jamie Corley

FUNDRAISING FIESTA Guests sipped margaritas and sampled traditional Mexican cuisine as a brassy mariachi band livened the scene at the WNO Women’s Commi ee’s Midwinter Fiesta. LOCAL FLAVOR: The colorful evening celebrated the history of Oaxaca, one of Mexico’s most culturally vibrant regions, and featured more than 100 silent auction items, including Mexican vacations and a private luncheon and shopping outing at Neiman Marcus. AMIABLE AMIGOS: Event co-chairwomen Alison Bibbee and Jessica Melugin organized the event hosted by Mexican Amb. Arturo Sarukhan and his wife Veronica Valencia. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Shayla Hines PaulinaValencia and Rafael Loureiro

Robert Mocny, Bianca Cassidy and Jerzy Romanowski

Geoff and Anne Kline Pohanka Ken and Dede Feinberg


Lisa and Roger Libby

Robert Jones and Joyce Crescente WL SPONSORED

THE TARTAN BALL The Mayflower Hotel PHOTOS BY KYLE SAMPERTON

Joel Hinzman and Jennifer Cetta

GREAT SCOTS The Saint Andrew’s Society Charity and Education Fund has awarded over $500,000 in scholarships to Sco ish and American scholars in need of financial support over the years and the society’s philanthropic mission is furthered by its annual ball. This year, $17,000 was raised thanks to a silent auction that included pieces from Adeler Jewelers and vintage Scotch whiskey. An energetic performance by Highland dancers from the Washington D.C. Saint Andrew’s Society Pipes and Drums and an address by the British Embassy’s Sco ish affairs counselor rounded out the festivities. HAPPY HIGHLANDERS Event chairman Russell Shumway, Tom McKnight and Marion Sabety, and the society’s chaplain, Rev. Richardson A. Libby. VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Chef Art Smith* Hailey Dart and Katrina Gay WL EXCLUSIVE

Dr. Richard Nakamura

Sharon Whitehouse

Vern and Anita McHargue

Doug Currie and Mark Wardlaw

John Bardi, NAMI Executive Director Mike Fitzpatrick and Jeanine Bender

NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS RECEPTION

Dr. Robert Post with wife Susan flanked by children Cait and David*

Art and Soul Restaurant PHOTOS BY BRETT BAGLEY

MIND OVER MATTER NAMI, an organization that provides education and support

Carol Caruso, NAMI President Kevin Sullivan and Clarice Raichel*

to those living with mental illness, opted for an “intimate” affair with about 175 guests at Art and Soul restaurant for this year’s gala. The theme, “Inspiring Hope Through Research,” put the focus on what ma ers – research – making the recipient of NAMI’s Scientific Research Award, Dr. Robert Post, adjunct professor of psychiatry at George Washington School of Medicine and leader of the Bipolar Collaborative Network, particularly fi ing. LIKE MINDS Chef Art Smith and Dr. Richard Nakamura accepted an award on behalf of Dr. Tom Insel, director of NIMH, who couldn’t a end. *ADDITIONAL PHOTOS COURTESY OF NAMI VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

Sarah and Don Heckenberg


David and Michelle Joubran

Jack Davies, Michelle Freeman and Jack Evans

Liz and Bill Smith

Danielle Leahy and Eleanor Rutland

Justin and Sally Steele Nicole Escuadro and Margaret Walkup

Michelle Demars, Sandy Stark and Johanna Meadows WL SPONSORED

YEAR UP GALA W Hotel PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Stacey Stevens and Kweku Forstall

Kate Chertavian

GEEKS GALORE The inaugural Year Up Gala, the brainchild of America Online International founder Jack Davies, proved to be one of the most entertaining and original events of 2010. The dress code was “geek chic” and guests could choose from a wide array of accessories to “geek up” their outfits, from taped, black frame glasses to light-up rings. Even the centerpieces were themed, featuring stacked composition notebooks and eyeglasses submerged in water. WORTHY CAUSE: The Year Up Foundation helps low-income students get internships and jobs in the technology sector. Many of the recipients were present, including one who spoke of how much the foundation had changed her life for the be er. It’s cool to be a geek!

Andrew Heller and Bobbie Peterson

Erin Regan in “geek chic” attire

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Michael Joseph Murphy, Susan Hurley Bennett and Richard Collins

Kay Kendall, Robert Todd and Paula Hisaoka

Year Up students Ashley Parran and Tiara Fisher


Martha-Ann Alito and Justice Samuel Alito WL SPONSPRED

DC JAZZ FESTIVAL ‘LADIES IN JAZZ’

Singapore Amb. Chan Heng Chee

Embassy of Singapore PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Gen. Peter Pace and Lynne Pace

Charlie Fishman and Ann Hampton Callaway

Michael Sonnenreich and Sunny Sumter

‘UNIQUE AMERICAN ART FORM’ Jazz was celebrated in a most special way with Ambassador of Singapore Chan Heng Chee welcoming about 80 guests to an intime embassy concert starring Ann Hampton Callaway. SONGS FINELY WROUGHT: The multi-platinum diva playfully captivated the audience with “Lover, Come Back to Me,” “My Funny Valentine,” “Tenderly” and other sultry hits until the very end (when a buffet supper was served). MOST AMUSING MOMENT: Callaway half convincing the crowd that former World Bank and Defense Department chief Paul Wolfowitz was her ex-husband.

Paul Wolfowitz Rep. Dan Burton and Samia Burton

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CANALETTO EXHIBITION DINNER Villa Firenze PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Fulvio Bracco, Antonella Cinque, Justice Antonin Scalia and Martha-Ann Alito.

Brent Glass and Cathryn Keller

Rep. Nancy Pelosi and Italian Amb. Giuliomaria Terzi di Sant’Agata

JoAnn and John Mason

VIVA ITALIA! Italian-American political luminaries were among guests enjoying an intimate evening hosted by Italian Ambassador Giuliomaria Terzi de Sant’Agata and Antonella Cinque to celebrate the opening of “Venice: Canale o and his Rivals” at the National Gallery of Art. MUSICAL MASTERWORKS Guests didn’t get to preview the landmark exhibition until the following day but were treated to works by Bach, Vivaldi and Gabrielli performed on one of the world’s most valuable violoncellos, the “Marylebone” by Stradivarius (1688) before dining on sea aroma trofie pasta, fillet of salmon al limone and torta al cioccolato.

Smithsonian Secretary G. Wayne Clough and Anne Clough

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Paul Nitze and Anna Soellner

Rusty Powell

Harpsichordist Thomas MacCracken and Cellist Kenneth Slowik


Sassy Jacobs and Sarah Cannova

Margaret Reitano and Marne Levine

Abigail Wenner and Michael Stempler with Maria and Roberto Nagorski WL EXCLUSIVE

FAIR CHANCE’S BUTTERFLY BASH

Lexy Deraine, Drew White and Susan Trifilo

Four Seasons Georgetown PHOTOS BY KYLE SAMPERTON

SPREADING THEIR WINGS Raising funds to positively impact the lives of over 40,000 children living in Washington, the fourth annual Bu erfly Bash featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and live music from The Winn Brothers Band. This year’s event honored advisory board member Tobias Dengel with the Fair Chance Champion Award for his dedication to improving the lives of impoverished youths by providing access to one-on-one training and coaching programs.

David Leavy and Michelle Jolin

Billy Connors, Nan and Josh Hartman and Egan Connors

Stephanie and John Polis with Denise Prince

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HOME LIFE Real Estate News and Open House | An Historic House, Real Estate Trends and Open House

RESIDENT MATCHMAKERS WHETHER FINDING A DREAM HOME FOR THEIR DC LIVING REAL ESTATE CLIENTS OR LOCATING THE NEXT DC DESIGN HOUSE FOR A CAUSE THAT STOLE THEIR HEARTS SKIP AND DEBBIE SINGLETON ARE TRUE BELIEVERS IN THE STAYING POWER OF DOING GOOD

In the formal front parlor, P.L. “Skip” Singleton Jr., Debbie Singleton and their yorkie Little General MacArthur sit amid collected treasures that include the French clock and candelabras on the mantelpiece purchased at Onslow Square Antiques in Kensington, Md. The chandelier is a French spider arm and the coffee table is a repurposed outdoor bench.

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BY SHERRY MOELLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH ALLEN

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HOME LIFE | INSIDE HOMES

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kip and Debbie Singleton know how important it is to find a dream home; they’re living in theirs. After admiring a MacArthur Boulevard house from her car while listening to Barry White’s “Staying Power,” Debbie Singleton’s dream became a reality. In 1999, she and her husband Skip purchased Glen Hurst, the 1892 home of J.C. Hurst, a real estate broker like themselves, and embarked on their journey to update the four-story dwelling. While past owners had kept the original moldings and staircases intact, major renovations were needed, especially to the kitchen and bathrooms. The Singletons enjoyed shopping for furnishings and art over the years, but they also initially consulted with interior designer Craig Henson and then more recently with Frank Babb Randolph who helped them “edit” spaces. “The first thing Randolph did was tell us to get rid of about a third of the furniture,” Mrs. Singleton says, adding that he also advised taking down window treatments and lightening wall colors and removing misaligned storm windows that impeded views. The couple also restored the original floor-to-ceiling “Jefferson” windows. After the 1892 elements were restored, Glen Hurst was placed on the National Historic Register in 2005. After meeting in Florida in 1982 the Singletons married the following year. They moved to Washington in 1997 when Mr. Singleton was studying law. While practicing as a trademark attorney, he decided to join his wife in her successful career by forming DC Living Real Estate in 2001. Celebrating 10 years in business with 12 additional realtors in the company, the couple say they take care of those whom they represent the old fashioned way. “Our percentage of repeat clients is high,” Mr. Singleton says. “We stay in our clients’ lives.” While Mrs. Singleton loves the interior of the Northwest D.C. home, especially the front parlor and dining room, her husband was taken by the expansive hilltop setting. As with everything they tackle, including the yard that was falling into the park, they do their homework. A 150-foot stone retaining wall was added in three sections to secure the lot and they hired artist Chris Shea to add iron fencing around the entire property.They purchased many books to find just the right style of pool and

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The main salon overlooking Sheridan Circle incorporates warm reds to complement the gold and cream decor and gilded detailing throughout. The graceful entrance, through the adjacent jewel-like rotunda to the dining room, sets an elegant stage.

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Opposite page: One of Debbie’s favorite spaces, the dining room with an antique oak table, chairs from a French castle and an original chandelier underwent the least amount of changes. Counter-clockwise from above: Framed by Jefferson windows, the iron bed in the guest bedroom takes center stage. A Random Harvest chest at the foot of the bed captures the charm of an earlier era. The original open staircase rises from the foyer to the third floor. One of the original Queen Anne homes of the Palisades of the Potomac, Glen Hurst was placed on the National Historic Register in 2005. The kitchen, with its LaCanche French oven, was one of the first spaces the Singletons renovated.

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cabana befitting their historic residence. It was during the search for the perfect outdoor furnishings, made by Janus et Cie, that they met Sandy Steele. Days before their meeting with her, the Singletons attended a Children’s National Medical Center benefit at the home of a friend whose child was scheduled to undergo brain surgery.They were so taken by the doctor’s speech that they wanted to do something to help. After talking with Steele about their home and the doctor, the DC Design House was born. Following much organizing and entrepreneurial zeal, the first DC Design House opened in 2008 at a DC Living Real Estate listing on P Street NW in Georgetown. The main goals were to sell the property and raise funds for Children’s National Medical Center. While they did raise a large sum ($100,000), the house didn’t sell right away. But the satisfaction gained and the lasting bond between the executive committee – which now includes the Singletons, Steele, Taylor Wells, Susan Hayes-Long (this year’s chairwoman), Terry Castellani, Diana Della Villa, Christina Emmerman, Christi Perez, Stephanie Robinson, Jean Seline, Kim Summerville and Brent Thomas – remains the driving force behind what was initially conceived as a one-time event. “It has evolved so naturally,” Mrs. Singleton says. Everyone involved has a passion to create a wonderful experience, from design advisors including Randolph, Barry Dixon, Michael Roberson and Ann Lambeth, to this year’s designers Iantha Carley, Nancy Colbert, Barbara Franceski, Samantha Friedman, Jason Hodges, Liz Levin, Lauren Liess, Gary Lovejoy, Cindy McClure, David Mitchell, Erin Paige Pitts, James Rill, Camille Saum, Whitney Stewart, Nadia Subaran, Patrick Sutton and Denise Willard. Even as they ready for the opening of the 4th Annual Design House, owned by the philanthropic Wasserman family – George Wasserman was co-founder of the Hebrew Home of Greater Washington – “we’re always looking for the next DC Design House,” Mr. Singleton says. The 2011 DC Design House benefiting Children’s National Medical Center is located at 3134 Ellicott St. NW, Washington, D.C. The 1925 12,000-square-foot English Country Tudor is open from April 9 to May 8. Visit www.dcdesignhouse. com and www.dclivingrealestate.com for more information.

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HOME LIFE | REAL ESTATE NEWS

Political Moves President George W. Bush’s social secretary sells in Chevy Chase, Obama power players move from Georgetown, and a senator from Maine buys on Capitol Hill BY STAC E Y G R A Z I E R P FA R R

THE DISTRICT Mark Rampy bought SOUTH bottom renovation. The property is located on Obama administration power couple Tony STREET NW F at the Georgetown Ritz- a 12,000-square-foot corner lot and was listed Blinken and Evan Ryan sold Q STREET Carlton Residences for $2,805,000 with the by Marjorie Lee and Grif Holland of W.C. & NW for $2,025,000 to an undisclosed buyer. help of Washington Fine Properties’ Jim Bell. A.N. Miller Realtors. Blinken is the national security advisor to Mr. Rampy is the founder of CoGenesys Inc. Robert H. Shulman and Nancy A. Vice President Joe Biden while Ryan is (a bio-pharmaceutical company) and a vice Markowitz sold CHAMBERLIN AVENUE Biden’s assistant for intergovernmental affairs president at Teva Specialty Pharmaceuticals. in Chevy Chase for $2,675,000 to Ronald and and public liasion. The fiveJanis Simon of Connecticut. Mr. bedroom Victorian rowhouse Shulman is a partner at Kasowitz, in Georgetown’s East Village Benson,Torres & Friedman LLP. was built in 1900 and includes Mrs. Markowitz is an attorney a renovated kitchen, a oneat the U.S. Commodity Futures bedroom/one-bath in-law suite, Trading Commission. The 1957 and grand double living room six-bedroom Colonial in the which opens onto a brick patio. Kenwood neighborhood has Washington Fine Properties’ been renovated and expanded. Nancy Taylor Bubes was the Long & Foster’s Adrienne listing agent. Deming and Joan Gallagher Sen. Susan Collins (Rwere the listing agents. The former residence of Maine) and Tom Daffron bought businessman and philanthropist, TH STREET NE from Nantucket Holdings Ltd. for George F. Kettle at Robert H. Shulman and Nancy A. Markowitz sold their renovated six-bedroom Colonial residence at 5339 Chamberlin Avenue in Chevy Chase for $2,675,000. $705,000. Ms. Collins is the 15th LOCKLAND ROAD in Potomac woman in history to be elected was sold for $1.8 million to an to the Senate. Mr. Daffron is chief operating The 4,000-square-foot four-bedroom unit was undisclosed buyer. Mr. Kettle, who died in 2009, officer at Jefferson Consulting Group and a bank owned (a first for residences at The Ritz) bought the Century 21 Real Estate franchise former chief of staff to Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R- and boasts Potomac views, a large terrace and for the District, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware Alaska). He was also Elizabeth Dole’s presidential parking for two cars. and Eastern Pennsylvania in 1973 and expanded campaign manager.The four-bedroom rowhouse it to include more than 430 offices and 6,000 in Capitol Hill was built in 1914. sales associates before selling it in 1996. He MARYLAND Mike Frame sold ST STREET NW Richard and Amy Zantzinger sold

and his wife Janice were active in the I Have a with the help of Washington Fine Properties’ CEDAR PARKWAY in Chevy Chase for Dream Foundation and subsidized the college Jim Bell, for $1,550,000 to William Lloyd $3,150,000. Mrs. Zantzinger served as White educations of many low-income students. The Massey and his wife Anna Maria. Frame is House social secretary during the George W. custom-built five-bedroom property backs up a retired software consultant and Mr. Massey Bush administration and currently owns and to a golf course fairway on a quiet cul de sac. is a partner at the Covington & Burling law operates an interior design firm. Mr. Zantzinger TTR Sotheby’s Rick Leverrier was both listing firm. The turn-of-the-century Dupont Circle is owner of Mauck Zantzinger and Associates, and selling agent. rowhouse was featured in Home & Design a local construction firm. The stunning white magazine last fall and recently renovated from clapboard six-bedroom Colonial built in 1933 VIRGINIA top to bottom by designer Scott Hixson to has been meticulously renovated in a manner Larry and Deborah Silver sold include a high-end Boffi kitchen and third- befitting an interior designer and home CARLTON PLACE in McLean for $3,140,000 builder; no expense was spared in top-to- with the help of Washington Fine Properties’ floor home theater.

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Wesley Heights, DC

Mass Avenue Heights, DC Georgetown, DC Highly-distinguished, prominent, French Regency style estate offers exceptional scale, quality and sophistication. Beautifully proportioned public rooms include a gallery size reception hall, sensational formal living and dining rooms with wood burning fireplaces and an intimate circular library. Massive slate terrace with view of Rock Creek Park. 6 BR, 5 full and 2 half baths. Price Upon Request.

Complete top-to-bottom renovation, boasting 4,100 sf on four finished levels, 6 BR, 5.5 baths, luxurious features, gorgeous wood floors, thick crown molding, a sunken living room and family room each with fireplaces, top-of-the-line kitchen w/ marble counters, Subzero and Viking, baths outfitted with Waterworks fixtures and tiled in marble. Large private back yard with an 8’ x 41’ lap pool. One car garage. $4,350,000.

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344 Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

Barbara Zuckerman 202.997.5977 Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

Kalorama, DC

Baltimore, MD

Alexandria,VA

Georgetown, DC

Paul Pike 202.550.8871 Alex Venditti 202.550.8872

Richard Leverrier 202.957.7777

Cindy Byrnes-Golubin 703.437.3861 Michael Rankin 202.271.3344

Russell Firestone 202.271.1701 Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Observatory Circle, DC

Penn Quarter, DC

Dupont Circle, DC

Georgetown, DC

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Jonathan Taylor 202.276.3344

Brent Jackson 202.263.9200 Robert Sanders 202.744.6463

Alex & Paul Group Yale Scott 202.412.2221

Completely renovated and expanded Tudor mansion with main house & 2 BR, 3 bath guest house. Nearly 12,500 interior sf on just over one half-acre. 7 BR, 7 full & one half baths, expansive main kitchen, huge atrium-like fam rm, FDR, & incredible library. Master suite with two fully separate baths, dressing rms & closets. Home theater, home gym, full staff quarters. Mature plantings, large deck, pool, 2 attached gars for 3 cars & parking for at least 9 more cars. $8,995,000.

Originally built by noted Washington architect Waddy Wood in 1923, this Georgian style residence has been recently transformed into a home ideal for both grand formal entertaining and comfortable family living. Formal living and dining rooms each offer wonderful symmetry with equal sized 25’x18’ rooms. 6 BR, 5.5 baths total. Private rear terrace and 2 car garage parking. $3,995,000.

Large 6 BR, 4.5 bath stucco & shingle Victorian-esque detached home with inviting front porch. Steps from National Cathedral. High ceilings, wood floors, woodburning fireplace, eat-in table space kitchen, sun room, 5 BR, 3 baths plus den on upper floors. Lower level in-law suite with second kitchen, BR and bath. Lovely rear garden/yard & detached garage. $1,575,000.

This rare opportunity is located at 16 E Mt. Vernon Pl. and its adjoining carriage house at 17 Branch Lane, in the historic area of Mount Vernon Square. The home has been restored, renovated, and improved to perfection. Please view the virtual tour. $2,400,000.

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

www.ttrsir.com

Completely renovated with an impressive addition, this 6 BR home features a bright and open floor plan. Modern features include a gourmet chef’s kitchen, family room, FLR and FDR, formal entry hall, first floor guest suite or library, MBR suite with luxurious bath and LL in-law suite. Located in the established neighborhood of Belle Haven with nearby country club and marina. $2,275,000.

Welcome to Swann Street, one of the prettiest and most sought after blocks in DC. This 2,600 sf contemporary 3 BR, 2 full and one half bath features some the finest finishes available. Features include Waterworks baths, crown molding, eat-in kitchen with KitchenAid and Jenn-Air appliances and granite countertops, Completing the package is a spacious 1 BR rental unit on the lower level. $1,449,000.

Georgetown, Washington, D.C. 202.333.1212

Wesley Heights, DC

This outstanding stone residence is situated on an exquisite 1 acre double lot. This significant 6 BR, 4 bath, 3 half bath home features a circular driveway, swimming pool, tennis court and separate guest/staff quarters, Features include a double living room with fireplace, formal dining room, library, kitchen, master suite with fireplace and finished lower level. $4,200,000.

Sun-drenched semi-detached East Village residence featuring huge (nearly 500 sf) living room and separate dining room. 11’ ceilings, hardwood floors and private deep garden. 3 BR, 3.5 baths up. Full basement with bedroom, bath and separate kitchen. Includes parking. 1st time on the market in over 30 years. A truly special opportunity. $1,895,000.

Renovated and spacious 2 bedroom and 2 full bath condo. Well designed layout features a kitchen with granite counters and center island, dining and living rooms with radiant hardwood floors and a private outdoor terrace. Just steps to restaurants, shopping galleries in Georgetown! Offered at $729,000.

McLean, VA 703.319.3344

Chevy Chase, MD 301.967.3344

© MMXI Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Farm of Jas de Bouffan, 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.


The former Embassy of Singapore at 1824 R Street NW is the most expensive house currently on the market in the District of Columbia.

Mark McFadden. Mr. Silver is CEO of the Silver Companies, a real estate development and investment firm with offices in Fredericksburg, Md., and Boca Raton, Fla.The seven-bedroom, 12-bath Colonial was built in 1992 and features grand entertaining spaces, a library, master suite with his-and-her baths, a pool and pool house. Artisan Builders sold MILL RIDGE LANE in Great Falls for $3,310,713 (more than $100K above the listing price) to an undisclosed buyer. This transaction marks yet another sizable sale in Northern Virginia so far in 2011. The 2009 Colonial is part of The Lane at Four Stairs, a private community of six estates over 30 acres of permanently preserved historic property known as “Four Stairs,” dating to 1730.

PROPERTY LINES MOST EXPENSIVE D C LISTING R STREET NW holds the title of priciest listing in the District at a cool $15.5 million. The 10,000square-foot mansion was a private art gallery and boutique inn and is now home to Marian Gerace. The historic Dupont Circle house, listed by Jim Bell of Washington Fine Properties, boasts eight bedrooms, 13 fireplaces and parking for five cars. Previously the Embassy of Singapore, the house was restored in 2006 using reclaimed antique material from around the world – including four early 19th-century French limestone fireplace mantels and 8,000 square feet of antique wood floors. Art (including 11 original watercolors by actress Katharine Hepburn) and furnishings (such as a custom hand-joined Tudor oak bed) are also for sale. TOP OF THE HEAP IN NOVA Northern Virginia’s most expensive property is currently FOUNDERS RIDGE LANE in McLean’s exclusive Reserve. John and Sara Darvishi are selling their 2008 French Provincial residence for $17.9 million. The

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20,000-square-foot custom-built mansion boasts an indoor pool and racquetball/basketball court, a wine cellar, elevator, ballroom, luxury home theater, steam showers, nanny quarters and a generator equipped to power the entire house.

CHESTERFIELD PLACE NW for $3,450,000. Built in 2004, the unique three-bedroom residential property, which Price describes as “New York loft meets treehouse,” is actually suspended above the ground. Held up by two red steel columns bolted to concrete footers, it PORTIS PAD HITS gives the illusion of being MARKET Cl i n to n on the brink of tumbling Portis has listed into Rock Creek Park. Clinton Portis Features of this modern GEORGETOWN PIKE for $2.5 million. Though marvel include a master the Redskins’ running back owns bedroom surrounded by glass several metro-area properties, on four sides, walls of unpainted rumors are swirling about why maple plywood and a spiral he’s selling the five-bedroom Balls staircase connecting all four floors. Hill property. The Colonial-style The property house, built in 2002 and sold to is listed by TTR Portis for $1.95 million in 2004, Sotheby’s John boasts colorful – if not eccentric – Mahshie and details such as a purple living room Ron Mangas. and a lime green foyer. The house also features a gourmet kitchen, CO M P L E T E airy solarium, pool and lower-level WITH LOG movie theater. C A B I N Travis Price Builder Brad ARCHITECT’S “TREEHOUSE” B e r n s t e i n ’s UP FOR GRABS World renowned personal residence at architect Travis Price is selling his KENDALE ROAD in Potomac has Forest Hills residence at hit the market for $7,950,000. The

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luxurious nine-bedroom house, built in 2007, features Turkish, French and Montana limestone tiles, custom mahogany, walnut millwork, chestnut flooring and a true gourmet kitchen. The private three-acre lot also includes a vanishing edge pool and a 1928 log cabin that has been completely renovated. Long & Foster’s Krystyna Litwin is the listing agent. BRADLEY FARMS GEM John and Joan Vassos are selling CO N G R E S S I O N A L COURT in Potomac’s Bradley Farms neighborhood for a list price of $7,685,000. Mr. Vassos is president of Sharp Business Systems’ Washington, D.C. office. The grand Southampton-style estate is set on a two-acre lot that includes a carriage house with apartment and an enormous heated pool complete with spa and outdoor family room. Listing agents for the 19,250-squarefoot Colonial built in 2007 are Washington Fine Properties’ Marsha Schuman, Betsy Schuman, William F.X. Moody and Robert Hryniewicki.

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com


Luxury Properties in Chevy Chase

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HOME LIFE | OPEN HOUSE

Metropolitan Mansions Top-notch listings in the District, Maryland and Virginia THE RESERVE ALVERMAR RIDGE DRIVE MCLEAN VA

Asking Price: $4,980,000

Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac with roughly 1.2 acres of land, this Winthrop Custom Builders residence has every imaginable amenity and the highest quality finishes. The property is meticulously landscaped with lush plantings and elegant flagstone terraces creating multi-level outdoor entertaining areas featuring a large swimming pool with infinity edge spa, stone fireplace and cabana.The exceptional open floor plan interior includes a large country kitchen, breakfast room, sunroom and family room, in addition to a stunning master bedroom suite and four additional bedroom suites. An au pair suite/office is above the three-car garage. The lower level has a large recreation room with a full bar, family room, guest suite, home gym and game room.

Listing Agents: Suzanne Blouin 301-641-8448 and Laura McCaffrey 301-641-4456 Evers and Co. Realty

William F. X. Moody & Robert Hryniewicki 202-243-1620 Washington Fine Properties, LLC

CHARMING CHEVY CHASE WILLIAMS LANE CHEVY CHASE MD The expansion and renovation of this luxurious home was completed in 2006 and includes nearly 10,000 square feet of dramatic living space on four floors accessed by a wide staircases and elevator.The open first floor includes a living room with stone fireplace, dining area, library with fireplace, huge designer kitchen and family room overlooking the large deck and grounds of over a third of an acre.There are six bedrooms including a large master bedroom suite with sitting room, and seven full and two half baths,; there is also a third floor recreation room and lower level media room. Located on a quiet street within walking distance to the Brookville market and shopping center, this spectacular home is one of the largest in old Chevy Chase.

GEORGETOWN GEM P STREET NW WASHINGTON DC

Asking Price: $4,350,000.

Built in 1921, this residence has been reconfigured and completely renovated. The floor plan boasts 4,100 square feet on four finished levels, with six bedrooms and five full and one half bathrooms. Features include beautiful wood floors, thick crown molding, a sunken living room and family room each with fireplaces, a top-of-the-line kitchen with marble counters and stainless steel appliances, and bathrooms outfitted with Waterworks fixtures and tiled-in marble.The large private backyard is a rare find in Georgetown and features an 8-foot by 41-foot lap pool.

Listing Agent:

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Jonathan Taylor 202-276-3344 and Michael Rankin 202-271-3344 TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

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P H OTO CAPT I O N H E RE

Asking Price: $2,495,000

Listing Agent:


Washington, D.C. $1,795,000

Great Falls, Virginia

$1,090,000

This fabulous 6-bedroom, 4.5-bath home is set on 5 acres of rolling hills with a pool, a modern 5-stall barn, fenced pastures, and riding rings. The house has been updated, including new granite counters, custom cabinets, and glass tile accents. Peggy Ferris 202.438.1524/ 202.364.1300 (O).

Dupont, D.C.

$1,145,000

Entertain in style at this penthouse condo. The home offers monumental views from the rooftop terrace and the private balcony off the living/ dining area, soaring ceilings, walls of windows, a library, a study, and parking for 2 cars. Chevy Chase Office 202.363.9700.

Vienna, Virginia

Boasting a unique blend of Victorian and modern features, this Romanesque Revival beauty was built by William Yost as his own personal residence. Its elegance is complemented by an ideal location on Capitol Hill, just 2 blocks to Eastern Market and Metro.

$1,690,000

This gorgeous, custom home offers embassy-sized rooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a grand master suite with a private terrace, a fireplace and a spa bath. The lower level has a clubroom, media room, and a wet bar. www.Lilian.com. Lilian Jorgenson 703.407.0766/ 703.790.1990 (O). Lilian.Jorgenson@lnf.com

Damian Buckley 202.438.6080/ 301.907.7600 (O). Damian@longandfoster.com

Arlington, Virginia

$1,395,000

This stunning 2-story penthouse with 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths is located at Wooster and Mercer. The home boasts 21-foot ceilings, a gourmet kitchen with island, floor-to-ceiling windows in all the rooms, and a large, private roof terrace. Ricki Gerger 703.522.6100/ 202.364.5200 (O).

We invite you to tour all of our luxury listings at www.ExtraordinaryProperties.com.

McLean, Virginia

$2,949,000

Nearly 10,000 square feet, this all brick home is located just minutes from D.C., Tysons, and I-495. Embassysized rooms, au pair suite, a theater, a slate roof, stone patios, and landscaped gardens complete the residence. www.Lilian.com. Lilian Jorgenson 703.407.0766/ 703.790.1990 (O). Lilian.Jorgenson@lnf.com

Great Falls, Virginia

Bethesda, Maryland

$3,900,000

This home features a pool, a wisteria-covered pool house, and a hidden tennis court. With over 12,000 square feet, the 6-bedroom, 6 full and 3 half-bath residence integrates sunlight and stunning views. Bethesda Avenue Office 240.497.1700.

Chevy Chase, Maryland

$1,095,000

This renovated and expanded bungalow offers wonderful flow and airy, light-filled spaces. Fine custom touches throughout and a glorious screened porch enhance this home that is perfectly located less than one mile from Metro. Nathan Carnes 202.966.1400 (O).

$1,985,000

Ready for March delivery, this 6,500-square-foot, custom home sited on 2 acres will offer magnificent chandeliers, 10-foot ceilings throughout, Wolf appliances, Bertch cabinets, coffered ceilings in all the bedrooms, and outdoor entertaining. www.Lilian.com. Lilian Jorgenson 703.407.0766/ 703.790.1990 (O).

Alexandria, Virginia

$4,890,000

Presiding on the Potomac River’s widest point, this magnificent home boasts over 7,400 square feet on 3 levels with a 3-stop elevator. A 200-foot dock with 2 lifts, a 3rd floating dock, a hot tub on the upper terrace, and a cobble paver driveway complete this residence. www.Lilian.com. Lilian Jorgenson 703.407.0766/ 703.790.1990 (O).

Dupont, D.C. $1,500,000

Washington, D.C.

$1,599,000

This 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home is beautifully sited on a cul-de-sac. Suffused in natural light from many tall windows, the residence offers hardwood floors on the main and upper levels, and an updated, large kitchen/ breakfast area. Susan Sanford 301.229.4000 (O).

Spring Valley, D.C.

$1,389,000

This very bright colonial home was built in 1992 and remains in wonderful condition. Located in a popular community close to shops and within the Horace Mann School District, the residence offers a beautiful private patio and garden. Spring Valley Office 202.362.1300.

Bethesda, Maryland

$2,195,000

Casual elegance abounds throughout this custom, new home. The 6,500 square feet features 10-foot ceilings, a gourmet kitchen, glazed cabinetry, a butler’s pantry, oversized doors, a library, and a gorgeous owner’s suite with luxurious bath. Potomac Village Office 301.983.0060.

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www.ExtraordinaryProperties.com

Sited in Gallery Row, this grand, modern residence offers breathtaking dimensions, soaring ceilings, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and 2-car parking. Embassysized entertaining spaces include 2 balconies, a roof deck, and a 33-foot wide living room. John Plank 703.284.9347/ 202.483.6300 (O). john.plank@lnf.com


INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

DUPONT CIRCLE, WASHINGTON, DC

GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC

Jim Bell

Jamie Peva A. Michael Sullivan, Jr.

William F. X. Moody Robert Hryniewicki

Historic offering, rarely available! Fifth Avenue elegance meets Washington Grandeur. Exquisite restoration of 10,000+ square foot Dupont Circle mansion. Unparalleled workmanship and detail. Appointment only. $15,500,000

202-607-4000

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

202-258-5050 202-365-9000

Stunning restored Federal in the heart of the East Village. 6 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, large terraced gardens, glamorous pool and pool house, 4-car gated parking. $7,900,000

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

POTOMAC, MARYLAND

Right out of Architectural Digest! Built by Bradbern Construction Co. Inc. with superb finishes and design. 10’ ceilings on first floor, 4 fireplaces, master suite, lower level with theatre, gym, bar. Pool. $4,850,000

Marsha Schuman

Totally renovated Federal on Cox’s Row with excellent proportions, perfect for entertaining. 7BR, 6F/3HBA, double living room, chef ’s kitchen & 3-car parking. $9,950,000

301-299-9598

K ALORAMA, WASHINGTON, DC

Magnificent duplex with spiral staircase and grand entertaining space, exquiste renovation. Master suite, 4 additional bedrooms. Storage and 3-car parking. $4,390,000

Ellen Morrell Matthew B. McCormick

WESLEY HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON, DC

MCLEAN, VIRGINIA

Ruffin Maddox Eduardo Manus

Susan Koehler Patrick Chauvin

Comfort and luxury in recently expanded and renovated Tudor with 4BR, 4.5BA, chef ’s eat-in kitchen, entertaining deck, lower level in-law suite & 2 garage spaces. $1,999,000

301-922-4443 703-851-9697

6BR, 4.5BA colonial with circular driveway, wood floors, moldings, great room, 3 fpls, MBR suite, updated kitchen, sport court, poolside patio and 2-car garage. $1,775,000

POTOMAC CREST, POTOMAC, MARYLAND

OLNEY, MARYLAND

Anne Killeen

Marsha Schuman

Much sought-after, sophisticated stucco colonial in Potomac Crest! High ceilings, excellent room sizes and the best backyard in the neighborhood! Easy access to the Grosvenor Metro, I-270 and I-495. $1,278,000

301-706-0067

202-728-9500

703-967-6789 202-256-9595

Fantastic renovation of historic Georgian colonial built by Sears on 2.32 breathtaking acres. Privacy, pool and separate pool house, professional landscaping, all await the most discerning buyer! $1,195,000

301-299-9598

202-243-1620

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

MASS AVE HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON, DC

Whimsical and updated 1928 home. 2-story living room, banquet-sized dining room, new kitchen, 2-car garage, and English gardens with greenhouse and terraces. $3,495,000

Patrick Chauvin Matthew B. McCormick

202-256-9595 202-728-9500

SPRING VALLEY, WASHINGTON, DC

5BR, 4.5BA house with grand master bedroom suite. Open chef ’s eat-in kitchen, 2-tiered lower level with office, bar, bedroom, bath, and walkout to garden. $1,595,000

Jamie Peva A. Michael Sullivan, Jr.

202-258-5050 202-365-9000

GLOVER PARK, WASHINGTON, DC

Spectacularly renovated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath 4-level semidetached house with designer finishes! Owner’s suite with WIC, sitting room, ensuite bath; chef ’s kitchen; versatile 3rd floor and lower level. 1-car garage. $929,000

Kay McGrath King

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202-276-1235


WASHINGTON, DC GEORGETOWN BETHESDA/CHEVY CHASE POTOMAC NORTHERN VIRGINIA WFP.COM

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

Potomac, maryland

Grand Southampton estate set on 2.10 country club-like acres including carriage house with apartment, heated pool with spa and outdoor family room. $7,685,000

William F. X. Moody Marsha Schuman

202-243-1620 301-299-9598

annaPolis, maryland

Handsome brick colonial situated on exclusive waterfront lot with views of Severn River. Spacious master suite with river views. Pool and patio. Dock. $5,750,000

Ted Gossett Susan Koehler

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING NEW PRICE! Exquisite renovated rowhouse. Large lightfilled entertaining spaces with 5 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths, gourmet kitchen, parking for 2 cars, and spacious rooftop terrace overlooking Mitchell Park. $2,699,000

202-607-4000

K alorama, washinGton, dc

Victorian with today’s amenities and yesterday’s elegant architectural details. 10’ ceilings, heart of pine floors, recessed lighting, updated kitchen and baths. $1,525,000

Jane Howard Marc Satrazemis

202-365-7524 202-320-0903

GeorGetown, washinGton, dc

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

Nancy Taylor Bubes

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

GeorGetown, washinGton, dc

Elegance at its best with this 1900 Federal home. Entertaining space with gourmet kitchen, 6 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, landscaped gardens, elevator and garage. $5,495,000

Ellen Morrell Matthew B. McCormick

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

K alorama, washinGton, dc

Jim Bell

703-625-5656 703-967-6789

202-256-2164

duPont, washinGton, dc

Stunning rebirth of historic Dupont rowhouse! 5 spacious BR, 6.5 BA, 7 fireplaces, formal dining, gourmet kitchen, expansive upper deck, parking for 2, lower level au-pair suite with full bath, kitchen & separate entrance. $2,595,000

Jim Bell

202-607-4000

Potomac, maryland

One of Gosnell’s finest. 2-story foyer, 9’ ceilings, family room with arched openings to a beautiful kitchen/breakfast area. MBR with sitting area, 5 additional bedrooms, 5.5 baths. Level yard backing to woods. $1,428,000

Anne Killeen

301-706-0067

cleveland ParK, washinGton, dc

Built in 1897, this Waddy Wood home sits across from Historic Rosedale. Elegant center staircase, Palladian windows & original architectural detail, all sited on deep wide lot.

Jane Howard Marc Satrazemis

202-365-7524 202-320-0903

Potomac, maryland

Exceptional Gosnell colonial with loads of Williamsburg charm & exquisite detailing. This beautiful home features a pool & putting green in the backyard—your “private” country club! Hurry over! Immediate possession. $1,378,000

Anne Killeen

GeorGetown, washinGton, dc

Patrick Chauvin

Mary Grover Ehrgood Julia Ehrgood

202-256-9595

202-728-9500

INTERNATIONAL OFFERING

west end/ritz residences, washinGton, dc

1 & 2 BR floor plans available. Experience all the services and amenities of the Ritz-Carlton, including valet parking, porter service, doormen, dedicated 24-hr front desk concierge service, & gourmet dining. Starting at $795,000.

202.944.5000 202.333.3320 301.222.0050 301.983.6400 703.317.7000

301-706-0067

Rarely-available 2BR, 2BA unit of 1,046 sf at the highly sought-after Phillips School. Great East Village location in walking distance to Rose Park. 1-car parking. $729,000

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202-274-4694 202-274-4682


3 Photo by Tony Powell

5

1

My Washington Lynda Carter, Actress and Singer 1. Everything I have tried, from seafood to game, at MICHEL RICHARD’S CITRONELLE (3000 M Street NW) is out of this world.We are so lucky

to have such an innovative and accomplished chef like Michel in Washington.

ANY CAREER ADVICE FOR BUDDING YOUNG STARLETS? A young actress needs to be more serious about her career than the other girls competing for the same roles. She needs to study films and other actors and know her lines. Honesty is important as well. People can smell a fake a mile away. If you don’t believe it, how can you expect anyone else to?

5. THE KENNEDY CENTER (2700 F Street NW). One of my favorite Washington landmarks is the Sculpture of President John F. Kennedy in front of the Opera House. The Terrace Theater

WHAT ARE THE TERRORS AND JOYS OF RE-LAUNCHING YOUR SINGING CAREER? The spectrum runs from complete panic to having a blast! Also, I love the creative process and coming up with new material. I have an as yet-unnamed album coming out soon.

is notable for its intimacy and sound quality and is the best place to perform or listen to music in the city.

3. SAKS JANDEL (5510 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, Md.) is my first stop for designer fashions.

Their customer service, especially from buyer LaShea Green, is as exceptional as the clothing they carry.

2. BEN’S CHILI BOWL (1213 U Street NW) looks

the same as it has for the past 50-plus years and its menu hasn’t changed much either. I love their chili and the way every customer is treated the same, from presidents to local folks.

98

4. MAY JEWELERS (8032 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner, Va.) is great for gifts. They have

WHO ARE THE ACTORS/ ACTRESSES WHO MOST INSPIRED YOUR CAREER? I loved watching romantic comedies with my mother when I was a kid. Katharine Hepburn and Carol Lombard had impeccable timing. Cary Grant and Spencer Tracy were also very funny and clever. Today, I’m inspired by Helen Mirren, Liam Neeson, Matthew Modine, Robert De Niro and Glenn Close.

goldsmiths on site who can design unique pieces or fix the jewelry you already have.

WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| M A R C H | washingtonlife.com


Marc Fleisher Presents: Four Exquisite and Unique Homes

The Best of the Best These fabulous four homes featuring expert workmanship and exquisite materials represent the finest homes in the Washington DC metropolitan area.. Marc Fleisher and The Fleisher Group maintain the most impressive portfolio of luxury homes in the area. From this exceptional Nantucket-style estate built by award-winning JEFFCO Construction to the fabulous pebble dash colonial with extensive renovations by distinguished Sandy Spring Builders, to the incredible European influenced custom villa by acclaimed Associated Builders, to the international masterpiece by world renowned Niroo Mansions, The Fleisher Group continually represents the most sought after and exquisite homes.

Visit Washington’s finest portfolio of luxury homes @ www.marcfleisher.com

The Fleisher Group Marc Fleisher #1 Agent in DC Metro Area 202-364-5200 x2927 (O) 301-961-3180 (H)



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