John Eric Home Magazine | Oct | Dec 2021

JOHNERIC HOME TH E PREMIER RE A L ESTAT E A N D L I F EST Y L E M A GA Z I N E

DC | VA | MD

®

OCT | DEC 2021

GET IN THE HOLIDAY GROOVE

Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 1232 31st Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 |202.448.9002

MAKING YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE DC | VA | MD

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O C T | D EC 2021

Departments 10 70 16 52 7 | Letter from the Publisher 8 | John’s Favorites 9 | Trevor’s Favorites

HOME

JO HN E RIC HO M E

10 | Home Trends A Christmas Star.

16 | Design Feature Fall Refresh: Local designers share tips for giving your home subtle updates that reflect the changing season.

26 | Design News Self-Care, home, and organization top our list of holiday gift ideas…

28 | Inspired to build your own gingerbread house?

Alison Giese of Alison Giese Interiors sits down with JEH and discusses holiday flourishes.

44 | Arts

Hanukkah Dinner with all the traditions

46 | These gingerbread houses from

The holidays are here – time to get your punch on!

around the world will inspire you…

48 | Great holiday host/hostess gifts

BESPOKE

that will impress.

76 | Money & Finance

50 | Pretty terrific Thanksgiving

Changes in codes that may affect you.

quotes that reflect the big day.

78 | Health & Wellness

TRAVEL 52 | Destinations

40 | Details

62 | Black Book

JOHN ERIC HOME

64 | Foodie

70 | Mixology

traditions.

Cutters for fall themed cookies

ENTERTAINING

The art of Alvena McCormick.

JEH is sticking closer to home and to one of the most amazing places to enjoy holiday festivities…

38 | Beginning new Thanksgiving

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41 | Designer Spotlight

Best Christmas Brunches for those on the road.

Self Care during the holiday season.

80 | Stylist What to wear on NYE…

EVENTS 82 | Buzz The news that all of Washington is talking about.

64 83 | Culture It’s that time of year – time for The Nutcracker performed by The Washington Ballet.

84 | Diplomacy The buzz in Washington’s diplomatic circles.

JOHN ERIC + TREVOR MOORE 86 | Real Estate John Eric + Trevor Moore brings you the best in luxury real estate from all across the metropolitan region.

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Contributors CHARLES M. TAPPAN, JR. Before joining Republic National Distributing Company LLC, Charles worked in finance, as a broker on Wall Street and as an equity trader.

He decided to make the leap into the Hospitality industry in 2011 while looking for

JOHNERIC HOME ®

the fountain of youth, and since then he has worked as a bartender at some of the best hotels and restaurants in Washington, DC, including Blue Duck Tavern at Park Hyatt and the Jose Andreas Think Food Group. Not only is he a member of the US Bartender’s Guild and DC Craft Guild, but he is highly decorated in the mixology community.

DAVID BROWN became a pioneer of design in some of DC and Virginia’s most upand-coming neighborhoods. As an executive with Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton &

FOUNDER | PUBLISHER John Eric MANAGING EDITOR Angela Casey

Valentino, he has been fortunate to travel extensively across the United States and

SENIOR EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Europe through his work. David’s eclectic style and appreciation for architecture is

Louis Kwasniewski

reflected in his work thanks to his unique cultural perspective gained through his travels.

MARC SCHLIEFER has been in the financial planning business since 1978, when he joined Equity Planning Institute, Inc. He became President of Equity Planning Institute, Inc. in 1996. With over 33 years of practicing financial planning, Marc has worked mainly on individual financial planning and counsels clients on all aspects of their financial life.

SHERRY MOELLER co-founder and principal of MoKi Media, was a previous editor in chief of Capitol File magazine/Niche Media covering politicians, celebrities, fashion, travel, hospitality and lifestyle in Washington, DC and around the country.

She now specializes in public relations for interior design, architecture and hospitality clients, among other luxury brands.

HANNAH JENNER is the Founder and Head Coach at Achieving Awesome

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Hillary Broadwater EDITORIAL e-mail | angela@johnandtrevor.com ADVERTISING phone | 703.798.0097

ONLINE Facebook | @johnandtrevorteam Instagram | @johnandtrevor LinkedIn | johneric YouTube | johneric

Performance Coaching and host of the “Achieving Awesome” podcast. A former professional sailor, Hannah became the first female captain of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race to circumnavigate the globe in 2007-08. After a 15- year career on the ocean sailing some 280,000 nautical miles, Hannah retired in 2017 to set up her coaching practice. Combing her experience in building successful teams along with a life coaching qualification from Erickson College and a nutrition coaching certification from Precision Nutrition, Achieving Awesome coaches women to unlock their true potential from the inside out. Hannah’s mission in life is to help people become the happiest, healthiest and strongest version of themselves so that they may in turn #betheinspiration. Find out more at www. achievingawesome.com.

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JOHN ERIC HOME

Cover Photo by Geraud Pfeiffer

Welcome “Autumn leaves shower like gold, like rainbows, as the winds of change begin to blow.”

– Dan Millman

Fall is upon us! Treats of hot apple cider and pumpkin scones. Multi-colored leaves dancing to the pavement. The perfect chill in the air. And, as holiday events begin to fill our calendars, it’s time to share wonderful times with family and friends.

In this issue of John Eric Home, we welcome the fall and holiday seasons. Inside you will find wonderful articles on fall décor, perfect host and hostess gifts, recipes for perfect autumnal drinks and a lovely gingerbread house. Our Foodie section is dedicated to fantastic Chanukkah dishes, while our Destinations feature takes you to one of the most wonderful places to celebrate Christmas – Middleburg, Virginia. Don’t miss our Health & Wellness section which focuses on self-care during the holiday season (it is a busy and stressful time after all) or our Culture feature which highlights the Washington Ballet Company’s exquisite Nutcracker performance.

We here at John Eric Home wish you the happiest and healthiest of the season.

See you back here in 2022!

John Eric Publisher, Principal and Realtor

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JOHN’S FAVORITES MY PERSONAL BEST

1. Café Colline – One of Arlington’s best restaurants and whether dining in or on their patio or doing take away, they deliver amazing food each time. 2. Sfoglina – Looking for the most amazing pasta? Look no further. This restaurant is another of one the many amazing options from DC restaurateur Fabio Trabocchi. Locations in Rosslyn, Downtown DC and Van Ness. 3. Dua Lipa – I can’t get enough of Dua Lipa and this album. Just buy it. 4. Moncler – Men’s Daninos Solid Quilted Down Jacket with Bib. https://www.neimanmarcus.com. I just splurged on this jacket. I’m ready for winter. 5. Burberry – Reeth leather and suede low-top trainers.

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JOHN ERIC HOME

TREVOR’S FAVORITES MY PERSONAL BEST

1. Riot Energy Mango. When I need a pick-me-up that is refreshing and easy on my stomach, I grab one of these. 2. Shady Rays If you’re looking for a reasonably priced sunglasses with polarized lenses, this is a great option. These could be a great gift idea for yourself or anyone else. Plus, they give back to the community with every order 3. Creamy Dill dip This is a new favorite for my family right now. Great with pretzels, carrots or anything else you enjoy dipping. You can order online or at your local Whole Foods.

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HOME TRENDS WHERE STYLE & ELEGANCE MEET

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JOHN ERIC HOME

2hristmas STAR Christopher Radko is an iconic name in American home décor. He began designing and producing keepsake ornaments, gifts and home décor items in 1986. The entrepreneur sold his Christmas Company several years ago, but the legacy lives on in his beautiful creations. Event today, the radiance and originality of each piece brings joy into households throughout the world during the holiday season.

In the 1990’s, Radko did a significant amount of work in Washington, DC. He decorated

the White House, Naval Observatory and the Kennedy Center. His most iconic holiday gift to Washingtonians was when he wrapped a quarter mile of 8-foot-wide red ribbon around the entire piece of the “Czar

Kennedy Center. It was this feat in which Radko turned this beautiful architecture into a gigantic Christmas present and earned the title of of Christmas” from the New York Times.

Every family can look back on special moments in their past, important events that shape their history and become topics for conversation at every family gathering.

For some families, these events not only give them something to talk about, but they also set the family on a new journey that takes them to places they never dreamed of. The Radko family has that story.

While many companies don’t often start in

tragedy, the Christopher Radko brand starts with a Christmas disaster. As the story goes, Christopher had always had the job of cleaning and storing his family’s old, rusty, cast-iron Christmas tree stand. When the 22-year-old was at the family home for the holiday in 1984, he decided it was time for a replacement, and the family’s 14-foot tree was placed in a new red-andgreen stand. They decorated it with over 1,000

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School, but Radko went to Paris and taught instead. At the time of the tree disaster, Radko was in New York working in a talent agency’s mailroom earning $8,000 a year, far from the advanced-degree professional his father had envisioned.

The following spring, Radko was visiting a cousin in Poland and mentioned his Christmas saga. She noted that many Poles still hung glass ornaments. As they talked, they walked by a pharmacy that had in its window, beautifully blown testers and beakers for making moonshine vodka from potatoes. Radko met with the proprietor and under his direction, the man created glass ornaments similar to those that had adorned the Radko family tree. Radko sketched some of his family ornaments and a few of his own designs, and the glassblower produced several dozen. Radko brought them back to the United States and showed them to his coworkers at the talent agency, who placed orders. Soon after, Radko began taking a shopping bag of samples doorto-door to Manhattan retailers on his lunch hour, hopeful of supplementing his mailroom wages.

In the business’ first two years, Radko

used two weeks of vacation from the talent European mouth-blown glass ornaments, some of which had been in the family for four generations. Each ornament had its own story, making the collection a kind of living diary.

While the decorating of the tree went perfectly, the

stand didn’t do its job. The following day, Christopher and his family were startled awake in the middle of the night by a terrible sound. Their Christmas tree had toppled to the ground, smashing most of the vintage hand-blown glass ornaments – priceless family heirlooms, collected and treasured over the years. Devastated, Christopher set out to find replacements, but quickly discovered they didn’t exist.

Nothing that he found matched the quality, workmanship and meticulous attention to detail that characterized his family’s cherished ornaments.

Radko hadn’t exactly been in his father’s good graces

before the boughs broke: At Columbia University, Radko rejected his father’s entreaties to go pre-med and dropped the sciences to major in English. After graduation, Radko’s father put down a deposit for Radko’s first semester at Law

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JOHN ERIC HOME

agency to travel to Poland and work with artisans developing the ornaments he had designed. Together, they perfected a seven-day manufacturing process that starts with the glassblowing and ends with each piece receiving a dusting of glitter and the trademark gold Radko crown. Radko then would fill a container with ornaments, ship it to his mother’s home in Westchester and fulfill orders out of her garage, employing out-of-work actors to help him with the packing.

His first retail account

was Georg Jensen, a topof-the-line jewelry store, I. Magnin, Bergdorf

Goodman and Bloomingdale’s and Macy’s followed shortly

to New York’s Gracie Mansion during the holidays.

thereafter. In 1987, Radko moved the business to his studio

apartment on the Upper West Side and hired his first full-

the Christopher Radko Company has produced more than

time employee.

eighteen million fine European glass ornaments that have

become a part of family traditions across the United States.

Radko was his own publicist, sending samples to magazine editors and hoping coverage would bolster sales. What he couldn’t have predicted was that celebrities would be drawn to the product. One day he

Today, after over thirty years of designing and creating,

The company that bears his name designs about 500 exquisite glass Christmas ornaments each year in addition to other holiday decorations. Designers today draw inspiration

received a call from a retailer telling him that Bruce

from Christmas classics, fine paintings, suggestions from

Springsteen had just been in and placed a large

collectors and life events. The Radko team works tirelessly to

order. Dolly Parton, Julie Andrews and Tom Cruise

prepare the utmost perfect edition of art for the ornaments.

have his ornaments, as do Katie Couric and Oprah

Winfrey, both of whom have featured Radko on their

in over 2,500 stores which carry ornaments, cookie jars,

shows. Barbra Streisand convinced him to make

snow globes, and other Radko collectibles. These include

Presently, Christopher Radko’s creations are available

Hanukkah ornaments. Hillary Clinton asked him to

retailers such as Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, London’s

design Christmas displays on the mantels of the

legendary Harrods and Fortnum and Mason. Many fine

White House Green Room and Red Room, and he

independent gift shops carry the line all year long. You can

decorated the vice president’s residence when the

also find these delicate pieces on the Christopher Radko

Gores lived there. He also has lent his design touch

website.

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INC.

MONEY DOESN’T HAVE TO BE COMPLICATED. Are you confused by most financial advice?

If so, you’re not alone.

Marc S. Schliefer, CFP® | Equity Planning Inc. 7910 Woodmont Avenue | Suite 900 | Bethesda | MD 20814 Phone: 301-652-8702 | Fax: 301-652-9066 www.equityplanning.com | marcs@equityplanning.com | www.linkedin.com/in/marcschliefer/ Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.

Cetera Advisor Networks LLC is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

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JOHN ERIC HOME

Breakfast room by Anthony Wilder Design/Build, photo by John Cole Right: Bedroom sitting area by Tracy Morris Design, photo by Greg Powers

FALL

Refresh Local designers share tips for giving your home subtle updates that reflect the changing season

By Sherry Moeller

Adding the colors of fall to accent pieces, such as pillows and throws, is a subtle, yet effective way to introduce seasonal changes in a room. Candles and flowers can create just the right ambiance without going overboard. Washington, DC-area designers Tracy Morris and Josh Hildreth, along with Anthony Wilder’s Interiors Studio, share some of their favorite fall refresh tips for the home.

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TRACY MORRIS, TRACY MORRIS DESIGN, WWW.TRACYMORRISDESIGN.COM 1. What are some ways to revamp your home for a chic,

3. Is there any specific area of decor that you would focus on

refreshing transition into fall?

to make a swift fall transformation?

For the fall season, I love considering the outside to give a chic

When the temperatures start to drop, I transition to fall with

refresh to your home. Adding fall plants to your front porch is

warmer bed linens and extra plush blankets in the family room.

a great way to add some seasonal style to your home. For fall

It is a quick way to get ready for the cooler months and will

and all year round, I make sure I have rugs in high traffic areas

instantly make your home feel cozy and ready for the fall.

to create a soft and warm feel underfoot; it’s especially great to have on cold mornings!

4. How do you personally redecorate your living space for seasonal changes?

2. What are your favorite fall accent colors?

When it comes to changing my home from season to season,

For fall, I love a rich plum color or deep neutrals. They are

I like to change the feeling instead of adding lots of physical

some of my favorite tones in a home and they give an extra

items. I stay away from too much seasonal décor that will

cozy feeling for the fall months. Incorporating these colors

collect dust in storage three quarters of the year. Instead I opt

into throw pillows and blankets adds texture and makes the

for seasonal scents for candles and flowers for a subtle effect.

room feel even more relaxing.

This is great for streamlining your home while still allowing you to nest as each season changes.

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JOHN ERIC HOME

Library by Nestor Santa-Cruz www.nestorsanta-cruz.com Left: Family room by Tracy Morris Design Hearth room by Tracy Morris Design photos by Greg Powers 19

Living room by Josh Hildreth Interiors, photo by Kip Dawkins

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JOHN ERIC HOME

JOSH HILDRETH, JOSH HILDRETH INTERIORS, WWW.JOSHHILDRETHINTERIORS.COM 1. What are some ways to revamp your home for a chic, refreshing transition into fall?

When fall approaches, I like to make sure that there are beautiful soft blankets on chairs or sofas - cashmere, alpaca and mohair are favorites. I also like to use cut bittersweet berries - their beautiful orange and persimmon colors are perfect in the fall. It can be fun to twist the berries into a chandelier or have it crawl out of a tall vase. Gourds and sheafs of wheat are another favorite fall element.

When fall approaches, my favorite scent I return to year after year is Cire Trudon’s Solis Rex, which I describe as the smell of a perfectly clean house. Even when my home isn’t perfectly clean, it smells that way when I light this candle; it makes me feel like the Downton Abbey staff has been through the house!

2. What are your favorite fall accent colors?

Claret is a great fall color that works beautifully as an accent in most rooms.

3. Is there any specific area of decor that you would focus on to make a swift fall transformation?

Pillows can change the way a room feels. I recommend changing pillows in a room for fall and winter. Pillows are a more affordable way to indulge in the luxury of soft cashmere, velvet or fantastic embroidery.

4. How do you personally redecorate your living space for seasonal changes?

I really value living in a home that is a reflection of our family’s history and interests. I will never be accused of under layering in my own home and as the seasons change, I use them as a chance to edit.

My husband is an enthusiastic art collector and fall usually involves an art shuffle often driven by a great new find. I also enjoy letting the change of season be reflected by what I put on our dining room table. As an alternative to flowers, I often like to use objects, such as ceramic roosters and game birds, on the dining room table.

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Great room by Josh Hildreth Interiors, photo by Angie Seckinger Library JoshERIC Hildreth Interiors, 22 byJOHN HOME photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

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INTERIORS STUDIO, ANTHONY WILDER DESIGN/BUILD, WWW.ANTHONYWILDER.COM 1. What are some ways to revamp your home for a chic,

2. What are your favorite fall accent colors?

refreshing transition into fall?

Colors found in nature, including warm golds, rust, burgundy,

Make thoughtful fall decorating choices to create a more

amber, silver, olive, and browns.

sophisticated and subtle transition. Fall decorating is about adding warmth and earthiness while still expressing your

3. Is there any specific area of decor that you would focus on

personal style. Mix shapes and colors in with your existing

to make a swift fall transformation?

decor to create texture and dimension. If you have a lot of

The main living space, bedrooms and entry space.

cool blue colors in your home, adding some amber or warm red accessories will complement and contrast. Add warm cozy

4. How do you personally redecorate your living space for

accents like faux fur blankets, wool and velvet throw pillows

seasonal changes?

and fleece bedding.

Candles, cozy faux fur blankets and velvet throw pillows are go-to seasonal items.

Use lots of candles in varying heights and sizes to add a moody glow. Fill your flower vases with seasonal greens and flowers, such as eucalyptus, wheat stalks and dried greenery.

Fill fruit bowls with fall fruit, such as pomegranates, figs, oranges, and pears.

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JOHN ERIC HOME

Library by Nestor Santa-Cruz www.nestorsanta-cruz.com Family room with stone fireplace by Anthony Wilder Design/Build, photo by John Cole Left: Main floor living area by Anthony Wilder Design/ 25 Build, photo by John Cole

DESIGN NEWS CURRENT DESIGN NEWS

BEAUTY, BOOKS, BUSINESS

Self-Care, Home & Organization Top Our List of Holiday Gift Ideas

by Sherry Moeller

Not sure what to get that special someone? Think selfcare with OVME; home décor inspiration from the new coffee table book, Inspired Interiors; and work from home furnishings from Thos. Moser.

BEAUTY

OVME, www.ovme.com, has just made it twice as easy to give the gift of self-care with its newest Washington, DC area location that opened in Merrifield, Virginia in the Mosaic District in September. The first medical aesthetic studio in this region opened in early 2021 in Bethesda, Maryland. Known for its individualized care, OVME’s team starts with a skin analysis that helps identify the best course of treatment for both women and men. From hydrafacials to fillers to products, the studio offers something for everyone who wants to get into a routine of self-care, including memberships with product and service discounts.

BOOKS

The long-awaited coffee table book Inspired Interiors features designers from across the country sharing their latest home projects from kitchens to bathrooms to living spaces and even outdoor rooms. Inspiration abounds from local Washington, DC area designers and architects, including Aidan Design, www.aidandesign.com, Kelley Proxmire, www.kelleyproxmire.com, Lori Graham Design + Home, www.lorigraham.com, and Rill Architects, www. rillarchitects.com. Inspired Interiors is available for $57.94 on Amazon.

Top Right: OVME Medical Aesthetic Studio, photo courtesy of OVME Botton Right: Inspired Interiors, produced by Intermedia Publishing Services

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JOHN ERIC HOME

BUSINESS

Working from home means working in style with the latest desks, chairs and collections from Thos. Moser, Handmade American Furniture, www.thosmoser.com. Sit or stand in the Bijou Lift Desk; stay put or swivel in the New York Public Library (NYPL) Chair. Work in comfort in the new Studio Living Collection featuring a sofa, chair, coffee table, and media case, which doubles as a storage unit.

Sustainability, craftmanship and quality prevail in this Made in the USA company, which offers online sales as well as showrooms in Washington, DC, Freeport, Maine, Boston and San Francisco.

Top: Thos. Moser Bijou Lift Desk Center: Thos. Moser New York Public Library Swivel Chair Bottom: New Thos. Moser Studio Living Collection Sofa 27

Inspir

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JOHN ERIC HOME

red to build your own gingerbread house?

It may seem daunting but building a gingerbread house from scratch isn’t that difficult, it just takes time. Follow this recipe and then add all of those amazing decorative candies that you can’t help but devour…

Recipe: Ingredients 6 cups (828 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling the dough 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 4 teaspoons ground ginger 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves or allspice 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup (170 g) butter, softened 1 1/2 cups (284 g) packed light brown sugar 2 large eggs 1 cup dark molasses 1 tablespoon water Make the Gingerbread Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking

powder, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and salt. Set aside.

Make butter, sugar, egg, molasses mixture: Using a

stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and brown sugar on medium speed until fluffy and well blended. Beat in the eggs, molasses, and water until well combined.

Combine wet and dry ingredients, knead the dough:

Beat half of the flour mixture into the molasses mixture until well blended and smooth. Add in the remaining flour and continue to mix until well blended, and a soft cohesive dough forms.

Turn the dough out onto a slightly floured work

surface and knead by hand 5 or 6 times until the dough is smooth and combined. If dough is too soft, add a little more flour.

Divide the dough, wrap and chill it: Divide the dough

in half, pat into disks, and wrap each half in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably overnight.

You can make it up to 3 days ahead of time. Let sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before rolling out.

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Create and Cut Out Pattern Pieces

you may want to freeze it for an hour before cutting out the

patterns.

Create a gingerbread house pattern by cutting out

pieces of stiff paper (like that of a manila folder) or

cardboard. Cardboard is almost as thick as the gingerbread

little flour over the surface of the dough. Place the pattern

house pieces will be, and you can create a house model

pieces on the dough, as many pattern pieces as will fit on the

easily using the pieces.

dough. Use a small sharp knife to cut out the pattern pieces

from the dough, wiping the knife surface clean frequently.

Prepare oven and cookie sheets: Preheat oven to 350°F,

Cut out shapes in dough with pattern pieces: Rub a

with the oven rack in the middle. Have several flat cookie

sheets ready, preferably ones that you know will not warp in

use scissors to cut the parchment paper. You can cut out the

the oven heat.

patterns through the dough and parchment paper, placing

the dough pieces with the paper directly on the cookie

Roll out dough: Spread parchment paper on a large flat

Depending on how soft the dough is, you may need to

surface for rolling. Dust the paper lightly with flour.

sheets.

Working with one portion of the dough at a time, use a

rolling pin to roll out the dough to an even thickness of 1/4-

use a large metal spatula to transfer the dough pieces to a

inch. Add a little flour to the surface of the dough and check

greased cookie sheet.

for sticking as you roll it out.

from each other. If dough pieces stretch during the transfer

If it sticks to either your rolling pin or the rolling surface,

dust with more flour. If the rolled out dough is very soft,

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JOHN ERIC HOME

If you are not using parchment paper, you may need to

Space the pieces on the cookie sheet an inch apart

process, push them back into shape.

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You can cut out a door and window(s) at this point, or

you can wait until after baking, soon after the pieces have

tips are available in supermarkets which you can also use with a freezer bag, for more controlled piping.

come out of the oven while the cookies are still warm.

Bake: Bake in a 350°F oven until the edges are just

Construct the Basic House, Mortaring the Pieces Together

beginning to darken, 11-15 minutes for the large pieces, 6-8

with Royal Icing

minutes for the small pieces.

gingerbread house - either a flat cookie sheet, or a thick,

Rotate the cookie sheets halfway through the baking

Pick and line a base: Pick a solid base for your

for more even browning. Remove the sheets to racks to

sturdy piece of cardboard. If you want, line the base with

cool, about 15 minutes.

aluminum foil or wax paper.

Trim pieces while warm: While the pieces are still

Mortar the sides of the house with royal icing: Pipe

slightly warm, lay the pattern pieces over them and use a

a thick line of icing along a short end of one of the side

large straight chef’s knife to trim off any parts of the pieces

pieces. Press the iced side piece against the edge of either

that have through cooking spread beyond the pattern.

the front or back pieces.

Remove pieces to cool directly on racks to cool

completely.

Hold in place for a few minutes until the icing is partially

set. Repeat with the other side piece. Prop up with cans if necessary.

Make Royal Icing

and the remaining front/back piece.

Royal icing is not only used for decorating, but it is the

Repeat with the other short edges of the side pieces

mortar that holds the gingerbread pieces together to form

the house. The following proportions should make enough

house, to fill in any gaps and to add extra stability. Pipe

Pipe icing along the seams, inside and outside of the

icing for both the mortaring step and for decorating for one

icing along the edges of the house where it meets the base.

gingerbread house.

Let set for at least an hour before attempting to add the roof pieces.

2 large egg whites

Mortar in the roof with royal icing: Once the royal icing

2 2/3 cup powdered sugar, divided

has dried enough so that the base structure is solid, you can go to work on the roof. Pipe icing all along the top edges of

Make the royal icing: Whisk the egg whites and 1 1/3

the structure, front and back and two sides.

cups of the powdered sugar together until smooth.

pieces so that the long ends of the rectangle are running

If you are planning to eat your gingerbread house and

The roof pieces are rectangular-shaped. Place the roof

are concerned about the safety of raw eggs, you can cook

along the top of the house.

the egg white powdered sugar mixture in a double boiler

until the mixture reaches a temperature of 160°F, but not

place the roof pieces on the house at the same time so that

higher than 175°

they meet easily at the top center, and extend out a little

bit, forming an overhang at each end.

Add more powdered sugar, beat to stiff peaks: Add the

It helps if you have two people working together to

remaining 1 1/3 cup of powdered sugar to the sugar egg

mixture. Using an electric mixer, beat on high speed until

until they are set enough so they don’t slide off when you

the icing holds stiff peaks. If it doesn’t form stiff peaks, add

remove your hands.

more powdered sugar.

the house stand for at least an hour, and preferably 8 hours

Place a dampened clean towel over the bowl of royal

Gently hold the roof pieces in place for a few minutes

Pipe the top seam of the house with extra icing. Let

icing: Keep this towel over the icing to prevent it from

before decorating.

drying out while you work with it.

the chimney can be a bit tricky because of the angle of the

Pipe with pastry bag or cut freezer bag: When you are

Mortar the chimney with royal icing: The dimensions of

ready to mortar or decorate, fill a pastry bag with the icing.

roof.

If you don’t have a pastry bag, you can make your own with

a re-sealable plastic freezer bag, just cut off the tip (a small

separate from the house. Pipe the pieces together with

cut) of one of the corners of the bag. Plastic or metal piping

royal icing and let set until stable.

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JOHN ERIC HOME

It’s easiest to assemble the chimney first upside down,

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Then, turn the chimney right-side-up and attach it to

Candy Icicles and Bricks

the roof using piped royal icing. You can do this either right

Candy icicles can add the winter touch to any gingerbread

after the house has initially set (1 hour after assembly) or

house. Candy icicles are used to decorate the edge of the

later, during the decorating process.

roof and around the doors.

And now… the fun!

The candy on your gingerbread house will play an

Snow Frosting and Confetti

important role in creating a vibrant holiday theme. Each

Snow frosting and confetti can add an elegant touch of

candy can create a different texture and design. By

winter to any gingerbread house. The Snow frosting design

choosing your gingerbread house theme first, you can

is usually applied to the roof and walls to the gingerbread

select the candy will better accent your design.

house and can be anywhere from a very simple pattern to a

Here are most common and popular candies which can be

very intricate design. Confetti is a simple way to add color

used to decorate a gingerbread house.

and simple shapes to your creation.

Gum Drops

Red & Green Sour Tape

Gumdrops are one of the most iconic gingerbread house

A newer candy, red and green sour tape is a great way to

candies. They are mainly used as Christmas lights, fences

add texture to your gingerbread house. The sour tape is

and colorful accents on the roof.

mainly used on the walls, but could also be used as grass.

M&Ms M&Ms are a must for any gingerbread house. By adding

Marshmallow Snowmen

some frosting and sticking them individually on the roof,

By stacking a few marshmallows together, it’s easy to turn

you can create colorful red and green patterns.

this candy into a cute snowman marshmallow. Think about

Hershey Kisses

adding a few of the pretzels for arms and small drops of

Hershey Kisses are also one of the most popular

chocolate for buttons as well.

gingerbread house candies. They can be used as roof decor, but also used to create walkways for the house.

Red & Green Licorice Candy Red or Green licorice can be used for roof lining or general

Candy Canes

roof decor. By cutting small pieces of licorice and adding

Traditional candy canes are one of the most diverse candies

them to the roof, it can create a type a unique texture.

to use when decorating a Gingerbread house. They can be used to create heart shape windows, lamp posts with a

Of course, you don’t have to use any of these candies –

yellow gumdrop lamp or even a supporting doorway.

take a trip to the grocery store or candy store and go wild!

The best thing about a gingerbread house? It’s like your

Sprinkles Sprinkles can be used in various ways when decorating your gingerbread house. The primary purpose of Christmas themed sprinkles is to add a pop of color and shapes to your theme.

Peppermints Peppermints can be the focal point of any gingerbread house. They are usually placed right above the door or where the two roofs meet. Peppermints can also be used as the primary candy to decorate the roof.

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home – make it your own suited to your tastes and styles.

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Perhaps, you don’t have the time to build a house from

Wilton Welcome to Christmas Mini Gingerbread Village

scratch but want to join in the fun? Here are two of the best

Kit Review

kits around to help you build a beautiful one…

With four miniature-sized gingerbread houses, you

can put this kit together for yourself or turn it into a group Williams-Sonoma Gingerbread House Kit

activity! The kit includes everything you need to make

the tiny buildings. The four mini gingerbread mansions

For a classic gingerbread house kit that includes

everything you need, you can’t go wrong with the Williams

are about 3-4 inches high, so the gingerbread walls and

Sonoma Gingerbread House Kit. It comes with pieces of

roofs may be a bit delicate, but even if the pieces break

freshly baked gingerbread, as well as a tray to build on,

you can still enjoy the sweet treat. During our testing, we

icing to use as glue, and a variety of candy for decorating,

experienced the gingerbread pieces being rather hard to

such as gumdrops and holly-shaped pieces.

cut, but it could be made easier if using a serrated knife.

Each kit yields one gingerbread house that stands

It also comes with four types of candy and icing

around 7-1/2 inches tall, and you can also buy sets of two,

to decorate the houses to be as festive as you like, and

four, or six houses—in case everyone in your household

you can always add on more candy to your liking! The

wants to make their own.

manufacturer recommends making the houses and allowing the icing to set overnight so that the buildings stay sturdy.

This edible little village is perfect for a fun holiday activity and makes small holiday centerpieces.

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Thanksgiving BEGINNING A NEW

TRADITION

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Thanksgiving is, perhaps, our most favored national holiday. For many people, Thanksgiving it is one of the few chances we have during the year to gather with our families or chosen families to share a fabulous meal, give thanks for our blessings and revel in the pleasure of each other’s company.

Over the years, families and groups of friends often develop their own special

Thanksgiving traditions that they bring out every turkey day. Those can range from goofy to touching, culinary to crafty, athletic to relaxing — and most require few to no additional materials other than everyone’s enthusiasm.

If you have been thinking of starting your own new tradition, the list is long.

Here are a few favores to get your creative juices flowing…

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Watch the Macy*s Thanksgiving Day parade together.

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Ask everyone to write down what they are most thankful for, take the slips of paper, and place them into a bowl. Then take turns around the table reading them out loud.

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After dinner, watch a classic holiday movie which you can repeat annually.

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Play a game such as charades or Family Feud. (If you are playing Family Feud, make sure to write down the questions and solicit the answers before the holiday.)

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Turn your tablecloth into a keepsake. Cover the table with a white fabric tablecloth and scatter cloth markers along the table. Ask your guests to draw what they’re thankful for, their favorite Thanksgiving memory or even a quirky self-portrait.

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Ask every guest to bring canned goods to dinner and then donate them to your local food pantry.

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Create a signature cocktail (and mocktail) for your guests that will become the annual drink. Then ask everyone at the table (even the children) to make a Thanksgiving Day toast.

•

Begin an around-the-world culinary adventure to add to the traditional turkey and sides. Choose a different country each year and make a dish from that cuisine.

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Send your guests a Thanksgiving themed thank you card after the event.

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DETAILS IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

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Combine cookie dough and imprints of the fall season and you have a delightful recipe for happiness with freshly baked autumn inspired treats. Here are some wonderful fall themed cookie cutters to help you celebrate the season.

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1. PUMPKIN COOKIE CUTTER Not just for Halloween, the Pumpkin Cookie Cutter, 3”, is a treat for the fall season.

Cut out cookies for Thanksgiving or bring a platter to a costume party. 2. LARGE OAK LEAF COOKIE CUTTER Use this sturdy cutter to shape and then bake fall leaf cookies from mixing 2 to 3 autumn colors into your favorite shortbread cookie recipe. . 3. DETAILED ACORN COOKIE CUTTER The Detailed Acorn Cookie Cutter features internal details that imprint on the dough making it almost unnecessarily to decorate. 4. TURKEY METAL COOKIE CUTTER This cookie cutter is American made from tinplate steel and beautifully detailed.

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT THE BEST OF THE BEST

ALISON GIESE Alison Giese, Alison Giese Interiors, www.alisongieseinteriors.com, is now based in San Antonio, Texas after living and working in the Virginia area for seven years. She continues to work with clients in the Washington, DC Metro region as well as her new hometown and across the country.

Tell us a little about your background, including the name of your firm and how you got into design.

I took a very scenic route to get to design! I have a BS in Nutrition, and a law degree, but I’ve always loved homes and decorating. I discovered design blogs around 2008, learned about interior design as a profession, and then soaked up everything I could. I took a course in interior decorating at a local community college and used my own home as a laboratory to build a portfolio to start my business.

Can you offer some of your best tried-and-true tips for entertaining at home - just a few especially as we’re entering the fall holiday season?

Good music and good lighting are the top two! Then, maybe a signature drink to offer! The most important thing is the company, so making them feel welcome and relaxed is key.

Top Left: Alison Giese, photo by Angela Newton Roy Top Right: Kitchen by Alison Giese Interiors/Unique Kitchens & Baths, photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

How has social media changed your business, if it has?

Social media has definitely expanded the exposure I get for my work, and has become one of the main ways people find me.

What home decor has the most impact during the holidays?

Is it the front door? A single tree? Thoughts?

I love a beautifully decorated stair rail. Greenery and natural elements, such as berries, pinecones and dried citrus with twinkle lights mixed in are my fave.

What is a new product or color or wallpaper that you love this year?

I’m really obsessing over rust velvet.

What is the biggest design trend you see for 2022?

With Covid-19 still being a factor, I suspect we will continue to see trends towards all things comforting - more saturated color with a retro or “days gone by” vibe.

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Family room by Alison Giese Interiors, 43 photo by Stacy Zarin Goldberg

ARTS PROVOKING THE IMAGINATION

ALVENA MCCORMICK

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Alvena McCormick’s large acrylic paintings feature natural interpretations which vary in abstraction.

Soft, vibrant colors and reflective light are primary considerations. McCormick’s paintings have been honored in juried shows and are included in such collections as the State Department, U.S. and Japanese embassies, I.T.T., Fannie Mae, General Electric and Philip Morris.

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WORLD’S GRANDEST

Gingerbread Houses

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THE BENSON’S GINGERBREAD CASTLE PORTLAND, OR, USA

LIFE-SIZE GINGERBREAD HOUSE MUMBAI, INDIA

This edible masterpiece is crafted by culinary chef and artist David Diffendorfer. David has been creating these show-stopping works of culinary perfection for well over 20 years at The Benson and every year he transforms over 50 pounds of gingerbread, 10 pounds of chocolate, and 32 pounds of marzipan into an edible winter wonderland for all to enjoy.

Across the oceans and as far east as Mumbai India, the holiday cheer can be seen stacked two stories tall with this gingerbread house creation.

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts of Mumbai is the host of this jaw-dropping culinary creation and it sits directly in their main lobby where guests can check in with the concierge.

GINGERBREAD LANE VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA The Hyatt Regency in Downtown Vancouver has been curating its collection of larger-than-life culinary delights for 27 years now. Over the years Gingerbread Lane at the Hyatt has raised over $80,000 for Make-A-Wish BC & Yukon. This is not only a fun and festive event for all ages but for a great cause as well.

GINGERBREAD DINING ROOM TUCSON, AZ, USA This particular gingerbread house is unique from all the rest of the structures on this list because guests of The Ritz Carlton at Dove Mountain can not only enjoy looking at the edible masterpiece from afar, but they can wine and dine inside the house all holiday season.

GINGERBREAD MANSION NEW ORLEANS, LA, USA This gingerbread house at first glance looks like an elaborate holiday addition to The Ritz Carlton Hotel in New Orleans, but it’s, in fact, all 100% edible. From the white marble walls to the exquisite gold detailing on the crown molding, this gingerbread house is truly a masterpiece.

TWO STORY GINGERBREAD MANSION SAN FRANCISCO, CA, USA This eye-catching two-story gingerbread manor which comes in at about 22-feet high and 23-feet wide can be found in the lobby of The Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. From thousands of real gingerbread bricks, candy canes, buckets of frosting, and marshmallows, this gingerbread manor has all the amenities including a fully functioning gingerbread railroad and even a dogfriendly version of their human-sized gingerbread manor.

THE COOKIE CASTLE XI’AN, CHINA Even China has their own magnificent cookie castles like this gingerbread house that was created in a local mall in Xi, China. The structure stood a whopping 700ft tall and about 20,000 cookies were used to create the edible masterpiece. The best part about this cookie castle was that guests were invited to explore inside the gingerbread house itself. Making holiday shopping that much more magical for people of all ages.

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5 FUN

Host/Hos

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stess Gifts

The holidays are upon us!

We are always excited to share the festive days with those near and dear, but we can be a bit anxious over buying the perfect host/ hostess gift to bring along to the affair – be it a dinner, drinks, or party. Nothing says “I-didn’t-really-think-aboutit and just stopped off at the store on my way enroute” like a bottle of wine – regardless of its vintage – or a bouquet of flowers that are already wilting. This year, go bigger or you may need to go home.

Try out one of these and marvel at the result!

Personalized Coasters Embellished cork coasters are a personal, practical hostess gift (protecting tables from guests’ frosty glasses). Create a set for your hostess, tie together with ribbon, and give with a bottle of booze.

Garden in a Box A portable garden, which contains the ingredients for herbal tea your hostess can enjoy again and again.

Vintage Books Unusual out-of-print cooking and gardening books are fun and thoughtful gifts to bring any host or hostess of a party.

Salt, Sugar, and Bread Salt for spice, sugar for sweetness, and bread for sustenance is a traditional Jewish gift that transcends boundaries and makes a lovely present.

Homemade Jam Give the gift of a bottle of homemade jam or applesauce. Easy to make, it is thoughtful, practical and delicious.

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“I awoke this morning old and the new.” – Ra

EPHRON

ANGEL

“The turkey. The sweet potatoe we all can agree so vehemently

“Appreciation is a wonderful th belong to us as well.” - Voltaire

“I am grateful for what – Henry David Thoreau

THOREAU

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EMERSON LOU

g with devout thanksgiving for my friends, the alph Waldo Emerson “Be present in all things and thankful for all things.” - Maya Angelou

es. The stuffing. The pumpkin pie. Is there anything else y about? I don’t think so.” – Nora Ephron

VOLTAIRE OREAU

hing. It makes what is excellent in others

t I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.” u

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DESTINATIONS LUXURY TRAVEL

It’s not just the day of December 25th that lightens spirits and creates a sense of bon homie with our fellow man. It is also the lead-up to the big day that is celebrated through holiday parties and events which radiate the glow of the holiday season. One of the most magical places to celebrate this season is very close to Washington. In this issue of John Eric Home, we head to Middleburg, Virginia, and explore what has been called “one of the quaintest destinations on the east coast” – especially during the Yuletide.

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DESTINATION | MIDDLEBURG, VA

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Middleburg’s traditional Christmas festivities, with the backdrop of a classic

hunt country village, have become a much-cherished tradition and essential part of the Christmas season for all those in the know. It’s not only children and locals of the area, but also visitors who arrive to this small town from all points spanning the globe that are enveloped by its magical ambiance. But Middleburg is not just a destination to enjoy Christmas parades and spectacles, it’s also a place to relax and enjoy yourself while taking in the sights, picking up unique Christmas gifts, dining in centuries-old establishments, dropping by local wineries, and perhaps, even taking in a spa treatment. Ultimate enjoyment awaits.

The Christmas fun begins with the annual Middleburg Christmas Tree

Lighting ceremony. The tree is bedazzled with over 1,000 sparkling lights that captivate young and old. Carolers entertain the crowds and spectators can’t help but to sing or hum along. The excitement is in the air and anticipation for the next event mounts…

It arrives a few days later when the Middleburg Hunt Review takes to the

streets and creates a spectacular sight. Around 150 horses, riders in hunting attire, and dozens of hounds, trot through the town. Throughout the day there are choir performances and the Christmas in Middleburg Craft Show is held at the Middleburg Community Center. These traditions are well-loved and definitely help to build the excitement for what is to come next…

One of the most highly anticipated events on the Washington, D.C. social

calendar -- The Middleburg Christmas Parade – begins mid-afternoon with lines of spectators crowding the sidewalks along Washington Street. With smiles on their faces, they enjoy a wide assortment of floats, troops and musical groups that march by them. Horses, ponies, llamas, alpacas and dogs. Antique fire trucks. And, of course, Santa brings up the rear riding on a beautiful horse drawn coach to officially usher in Christmas. It is one of the most iconic parades, in one of the loveliest villages in The United States.

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But, in Middleburg, it’s not only public displays and events that encourage

holiday cheer. Cheer is felt throughout the town – in shops, restaurants, cafes.

After partaking in the festivities, dropping into one of Middleburg’s fine eating establishments assists the continuance of the holiday revelry. The Red Fox Inn & Tavern is one such spot.

Established in 1728, the Red Fox Inn & Tavern rests in the heart of the

historic village. Steeped in the history of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, the Inn & Tavern maintains the traditions of days past. One feels as if they have stepped back into time when entering here. While the charming vibe of this place makes it notable, the menu adds to its depth. The restaurant’s culinary team sources and prepares fresh ingredients from Virginia’s Piedmont region.

Their four-course dinner experience features unique game dishes that combine time-honored cooking techniques with regional taste palates. They also stock regional wines and ales. The Inn & Tavern is the perfect place to dine after a day full of taking in the sights.

Speaking of regional wines, the Boxwood Estate Winery – located in the

center of Middleburg itself – is a renowned-destination winery which provides not only a lovely glass of pinot but can also make Christmas shopping easy. It is almost guaranteed that you will leave with a few bottles for friends and family.

The winery is the fulfillment of a long-held dream by proprietor John Kent

Cooke (former owner and president of the NFL Washington Football Team.)

As both an admirer and collector of French wines, Cooke and his team at Boxwood have committed themselves to not only making premium wines in the Bordeaux tradition, but in making sure that their brand has its own, distinct Virginia expression. The Boxwood sustainable vineyards occupy 26.5 acres of a historic landmark farm and are planted with traditional Bordeaux varietals, predominately Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, all ENTAV certified.

After selecting a few wines (and crossing off a few names on your Christmas

list), it is time to explore the shops and boutiques that line Middleburg’s historic district. You’re guaranteed to find a few more perfect gifts.

Middleburg’s historic district is less than a mile long, but it’s filled with many

unique stores, including equestrian shops, high-end clothing boutiques and fine art galleries. Grab a caffe latte from one of the local cafes and take a stroll.

You’re sure to find something that you just must gift to a loved one or take home for yourself.

One boutique that might draw your interest is Country Classics – C. & D.

Ridgen & Son. This shop was founded in 1989, and the clothing on display is created from a lifetime of art and design. The garments, which are handpicked and limited in sizing, are made in the United Kingdom and Europe by the very best craftsmen. Each piece is limited in quantity and unique.

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Perhaps, spending time in a centuries old town inspires

rooms and suites are comfortably spacious and include an

an interest in antiques? If so, drop into Baileywyck Antiques.

outdoor patio or balcony. The resorts’ restaurants are as

Here you will find a curated array of period furniture

impressive as their countryside surroundings. Diners can

and home furnishings, which includes textiles, artifacts,

Indulge in the in finest cut of local steak or try a delicious

architectural pieces and tabletop items. They also display a

house-made jam.

good selection of equestrian-themed art. What’s wonderful

about the shop is that is found in a converted firehouse.

in it. At the resort, there are plenty of hikes and places to

explore. There is also a host of activities to enjoy outdoors.

If a piece of art is on your list, the Byrne Gallery is a

Part of enjoying the country is getting out and being

must. This gallery features contemporary artwork in all

Clay shooting, archery, axe-throwing, not to mention a good

mediums. They hold monthly exhibitions which showcase

variety of equestrian programs, of course. It is easy to lose

local, national and international artists. Monthly artist

yourself in nature. Even in the evening, when sitting around

receptions give viewers the chance to meet the artists and

the fire-pit can be a highlight of the day.

ask questions about their concepts and techniques. It’s a

wonderful place to imbibe the local Middleburg art scene.

health and wellness journey tailored to each guest’s needs.

This incorporates integrative and regionalized treatments as

Although Middleburg celebrates its past with abandon,

The resort’s spa is a gem. Salamander offers a unique

there is a newcomer on the scene which has made a splash

well as holistic and result-driven therapies. Along the way,

and is supported greatly. The Salamander Resort & Spa is not

guests enjoy aromatic steam rooms, sun-lit relaxation spaces,

only an amazing regional spa, it is rated as one of the top in

and a secluded spa courtyard with an elegant infinity-edge

the country.

pool and cabanas. Relaxation and wellness are guaranteed.

And, a wonderful holiday present can be a gift card to your

Set on 340 acres nestled into the foothills of the Blue

Ridge Mountains, the resort is an opulent destination. In

best friend for a treatment. It practically guarantees your

keeping with the Middleburg feel, it highlights its country

own return.

estate design and exemplifies equestrian life in both form

and substance.

Christmastime. Make sure to plan a trip…

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The resort is both subtle and sophisticated. All 168

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Middleburg, Virginia is a lovely spot. Especially at

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BLACK BOOK INTERNATIONAL FAIRE

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IF YOU ARE AWAY FROM HOME, FAMILY AND FRIENDS AT CHRISTMASTIME, OR IF YOU ARE TRAVELING WITH FAMILY OR FRIENDS ON THE HOLIDAY AND NEED AN AMAZING PLACE TO CELEBRATE – MAKE SURE TO BOOK IN ONE OF THESE RESTAURANTS FOR AN AMAZING CHRISTMAS BRUNCH. LA CUISINE AT LE ROYAL MONCEAU – RAFFLES, PARIS Le Royal Monceau is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants. While Il Carpaccio is only open for New Year’s Eve, La Cuisine serves up delicious meals on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Christmas Day brunch features both traditional French and international dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood, charcuterie and cheese selections, and pastries. The hotel is also serving a modern take on the classic Bouche de Noel, which will be available at the Bar Long bar.

BLUE DUCK TAVERN – PARK HYATT, WASHINGTON DC Reservations at Blue Duck Tavern are some of the most sought after in the nation’s capital. Blue Duck serves a three-course meal throughout the day on Christmas.

Starters include an array of salads, breads, and cheeses, while guests will have several options for their main dishes, and then a selection of delicious desserts.

ONE TWENTY ONE TWO – THE ROYAL HORSEGUARDS, LONDON With views of the London Eye and Thames River, The Royal Horseguards is one of the most elegant properties in London — and boasts an equally elegant restaurant to match. At One Twenty One Two on Christmas Day, diners enjoy a five course meal with a glass of champagne. Each guest receives three starters and then their choice between two entrees (either turkey or venison; vegetarian options include potato terrine or truffle risotto). Christmas pudding, as well as a fruit and chocolate option, are available for dessert.

PEACOCK ALLEY – THE WALDORF ASTORIA, NEW YORK CITY Continually ranked among New York City’s best brunches, brunch at the Waldorf’s Peacock Alley is also available on Christmas Day. Children will likely love the chocolate fountain, while healthy-minded adults will appreciate that many of the dishes on offer incorporate vegetables and herbs from the hotel’s rooftop garden.

Stations include an omelet station, a raw bar (complete with decadent options like caviar and lobster), and a carving station, and there are over 100 desserts to choose from. Of course, the Waldorf salad makes the menu, as do dishes such as eggs Benedict, bronzino, chicken picatta and quiche.

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FOODIE TASTE OF THE TOWN

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HOLIDAY BRISKET INGREDIENTS 5-7 lbs brisket, first or second cut (do not trim fat - especially if it's grass fed) 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced 1 lb celery, peeled and sliced 28 oz tomatoes - whole, diced, or crushed (1 large can) 10 peeled whole garlic cloves 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup vinegar (I like apple cider vinegar, but white vinegar works too) 2 cups beef or chicken broth, divided Salt and pepper DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Rinse the brisket and pat dry. Rub both sides of the meat with black pepper and salt.

Heat a large skillet over a medium flame on the stovetop. Drizzle 2 tbsp of olive oil into the pan. Brown the brisket on both sides—it will take 4-5 minutes per side.

A large brisket may overlap the edges of the skillet; you can brown it in stages, letting half the brisket overlap the edge, then adjusting it to brown the other half.

While brisket is browning, pour canned tomatoes, garlic, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and 1 ½ cups broth into a blender or food processor. Add 2 tsp of salt (or 1 tsp if using a salted kosher cut of brisket) and ¼ tsp of black pepper.

Pulse till garlic is chopped small and all ingredients are combined.

Remove the browned brisket from the skillet.

Drizzle 2 tbsp more olive oil in the pan and add the sliced onions. Saute them over medium high for a few minutes until they begin to soften and shrink in size.

Add the carrot and celery slices. Sauté for another 5-6 minutes until the onions are soft and browning and the vegetables are fragrant.

Pour the vegetables out of the skillet and onto a plate, reserve. Add 1/2 cup beef stock or chicken stock into the skillet and let it heat up. Use a spatula to gently scrape up any brown bits and pan juices that are clinging to the skillet.

Turn off heat.

Pour half of the tomato mixture into a large roasting pan.

Place brisket on top of the tomato sauce, fat cap facing up.

Pour the sauteed vegetables across the top of the brisket, along with the broth and brown bits.

Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top of the vegetables and brisket.

Cover the roasting pan tightly with a layer of parchment paper followed by a layer of foil. The parchment forms a protective layer between the meat and sauce (which is acidic) and the foil.

Place brisket in the oven. Let it roast undisturbed for 5 to 7 hours. It will take about 1 hour per pound of meat (leaner cuts of meat like grass fed may take longer—test for doneness). Brisket is ready when it flakes tenderly when pierced with a fork. You can let it cook even longer for a soft, shredded texture if that’s what you prefer. When fully cooked, the brisket will have shrunk in size.

Making this brisket ahead, allowing it to sit in the refrigerator for 1-2 nights will improve the flavor.

Remove brisket from the pan and let it rest on the cutting board fat-side up for 20-30 minutes. Meanwhile, pour the sauce and vegetables from the roasting pan into a smaller saucepan. Skim fat from the surface of the cooking sauce, then reheat the sauce till hot (not boiling).

Cut fat cap off the brisket, then cut the brisket in thin slices against the grain.

Serve topped with hot tomato sauce and softened veggies.

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CLASSIC POTATO LATKES INGREDIENTS 2 1/2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold preferred) 1 large onion, shredded 3/4 cup matzo meal or bread crumbs 2 large eggs, beaten 1 tbsp potato starch, or more if needed 1 1/4 tsp salt, or more to taste 1/2 tsp pepper Avocado, peanut or grapeseed oil for frying (about 1 1/2 cups - choose an oil with a high smoke point) 1/4 cup schmaltz (optional) DIRECTIONS Before you begin making the latkes, place your wire cooling rack close to the area where you will be frying the latkes. Place a layer of paper towels below the cooling rack to catch excess oil.

Cut the potatoes into large chunks and shred using a hand grater or food processor shredding attachment with large holes (large shreds). A food processor is recommended, it saves a ton of time and will help you avoid tears when grating the onion.

Place grated potato into a bowl and immediately cover with cold water.

Meanwhile, grate the onion using the grater or food processor attachment with fine holes (small shreds).

Place drained potato shreds and grated onion in the center of a clean tea towel or multiple layers of cheesecloth. Wrap the shreds up in the cloth, twisting the cloth to secure the bundle, and squeeze firmly to remove excess liquid from the shreds.

Pour potato and onion into the clean dry bowl. Stir the shreds with a fork to make sure the grated onion is evenly mixed throughout the potato shreds.

In a skillet, add oil to reach a depth of 1/8 inch. If using schmaltz, add 1/4 cup to the oil. The schmaltz will add more savory flavor to the latkes. Heat slowly over medium to about 365 degrees F. While oil is heating, use the fork to stir the matzo meal, beaten eggs, potato starch, salt and pepper into the potato and onion shreds. Add salt and pepper to taste, about 1 1/4 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. You can sprinkle on more salt to taste after cooking, if desired. Take care to make sure the egg and seasonings are fully mixed throughout the potato shreds.

Scoop up 3 tbsp of the potato mixture and shape into a tightly compacted disk.

Place the disk carefully into the hot oil. Latkes can break apart at this point, they’re very delicate. If you can get them into the hot oil in one piece, chances are they will stick together – frying them is like the “glue” that holds them together. It takes a gentle touch, and it may take you some practice to get the “feel” for it.

The oil should sizzle, but not pop when the latke hits it; if the oil jumps wildly or smokes, it is too hot. If it only bubbles weakly, the oil is not hot enough. Use the first latke to test the oil temperature, and don’t fry a whole batch until the temperature is right.

Continue shaping the latkes in this way, using 3 tablespoons of potato mixture for each latke. Fry in batches of 4-5 latkes at a time (no more than that – don’t crowd the pan) for 2-3 minutes per side until brown and crispy.

Remove the latkes from the pan using a metal spatula and place them on the wire cooling rack to drain.

It's recommend serving latkes fresh within 10 minutes of frying them, if your cooking schedule permits.

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SUFGANIYOT INGREDIENTS 1 cup warm water, heated to about 110°F (see note) 1 tablespoon instant/rapid-rise or active dry yeast (note that this is more than 1 packet) 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar, plus more for coating 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 2 large egg yolks 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus about 2 quarts more for frying 1 teaspoon vanilla extract About 1 cup jam or jelly (or custard, Nutella, pudding, pumpkin butter, apple butter, dulce de leche, etc.), optional DIRECTIONS Combine the water and yeast in a small bowl and let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the flour, confectioners' sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Whisk to combine and set aside.

Add the egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of oil, and vanilla to the water/yeast mixture and whisk with a fork until combined.

Add the liquid mixture to the flour mixture and stir with rubber spatula until the dough comes together. It should be a bit sticky. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap (no need to clean it first) and let the dough rise on the countertop until doubled in size, 1 to 2 hours.

Line a baking sheet with a few layers of paper towels. Line another baking sheet with ­parchment paper and dust heavily with flour. Generously dust a clean countertop and your hands with flour. Scrape the dough out of the bowl onto the counter and dust the dough with flour. Pat the dough into 1/4-in-thick rectangle (it should be about 10 x 12-inches in size), making sure the bottom doesn't stick and adding more flour to the counter and your hands as needed. Using a pizza wheel or very sharp knife, cut the dough into 24 two-inch squares and transfer to the floured baking sheet, leaving a little space between the squares. Sprinkle the squares lightly with flour.

Add enough oil to a large Dutch oven or heavy pot to measure about 2 inches deep and heat over medium heat to 350°F. (If you don't have a candy/deep-fry thermometer, drop a 1-in cube of bread in the oil; if it takes about 1 minute to get golden brown, the oil is at the right temperature.) Place 6 dough pieces in the oil and fry until golden brown, about 3 minutes, flipping halfway through frying.

Adjust the heat, if necessary, to maintain the oil temperature between 325°F and 350°F. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the donuts to the paper towel-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining donuts.

When the donuts are cool enough to handle, use a paring knife to puncture the side of each to form a pocket in the center. Place the tip of a squeeze bottle or piping bag into the pocket and squeeze 1 to 2 teaspoons of jam or jelly inside.

(Alternatively, if you don't have the right tools or just don't want to bother, serve the filling on the side.)

Using a fine sieve, dust the donuts generously with confectioners’ sugar. Serve warm.

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MIXOLOGY TIPSY TEMPTATIONS

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PILGRIM’S PUNCH Glassware: Punch Bowl and Punch Cup (with Handle) Method: Combine ingredients into a punch bowl. Pour in hot tea and mix to integrate. Slice studded orange peel, garnish, serve and enjoy!

Ingredients: 2 Cups Plymouth Gin ¾ Cup Leopold Bros. Cranberry Liqueur ¾ Cup Lemon Juice 1.5 cups Maple Syrup 3 cups Black Breakfast tea Orange Peel with Cloves Garnish: Orange peel slice studded with a clove In 1620, the Pilgrim forefathers sailed the Mayflower across the Atlantic, landing in the new world and establishing the Plymouth Colony. Their initial days were tough. However, in the face of their challenges, the new colony flourished and gave rise to Thanksgiving. This holiday season give thanks and entertain with a libation born from sailing (punch)! The Pilgrim’s Punch starts with a classic American ingredient, maple syrup. Next add cranberry liquor to create a rich and sweet yet citrusy and tangy balance that utilizes flavors indicative of New England. The heart of the punch is the historic Plymouth Gin. One of the oldest and most famous, it has been enjoyed around the world for generations and gives a nod to the pilgrims themselves with a memorandum on its label of the Mayflower. Hot tea, one of the classic ingredients in punch, brings this delightful holiday salute all together and provides body and depth perfect for a Thanksgiving evening.

Give thanks this Thanksgiving to all of those around you and welcome them with the Pilgrim’s Punch. *Orange Peel: Take a peel of whole orange and pierce it with whole cloves, about 12 cloves to a peel. Mix the peel into the punch before adding the hot tea, so the hot tea helps to infuse the flavors into the punch. After temperature is brought down to drinking level, remove and slice the peel so it can be used to garnish the drinks individually.

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SEASON’S GREETINGS PUNCH Glassware: Punch Bowl and Irish Coffee cup (with handle) Method: For cold punch - combine all ingredients into a punch bowl, add ice, stir to chill, garnish serve and enjoy. For warm / hot punch – combine all ingredients into a pot (or other type of warming vessel like a slow cooker / crock pot) bring to a simmer. Turn temperature off and re-heat as needed. *For Cinnamon Honey: Combine equal parts water and honey in a saucepot. Add a handful (6 or more depending on how much you are making) cinnamon sticks, whisk to integrate, bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes. Let cool and use as desired.

Ingredients: 4 Cups Apple Cider 2 Cups Smooth Ambler Contradiction Rye 1 Cup Evangeline’s Praline Liqueur 1 Cup Lemon Juice 1 Cup Cinnamon Honey* Garnish: Sliced Apples and Ginger Powder Welcoming friends and family to gatherings for the holidays is the staple of the season and calls for a classic, a great drink based on classic flavors. This mood improver starts with one of the most beloved spirits categories around the world, whiskey! In this build out, a rye whiskey makes for a great start. Flavors of gingerbread and pepper spice are not only inherent in the grain but make for an incredible layering liquid foundation. (Picking out those tasty tones doesn’t need to be difficult, go with what works.) Apple and cinnamon are a globally loved pairing that is enjoyed in everything. Bright and bold, cooking the cinnamon in honey adds a natural sweetness that seamlessly joins the apple flavor to complement and enhance the rye whiskey. Adding in the lemon juice brings balance and this agreeable cocktail almost nears completion.

Kicking the cocktail up a notch is the addition of praline liqueur.

Decadent doesn’t even begin to explain the flavors of the Evangeline liqueur which creates the perfect accompaniment for an outstanding pick-me-up. Make every greeting this season special, and have the best of holidays especially with great company and a Season’s Greetings Punch.

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HOLIDAY EVENING PUNCH Glassware: Punch Bowl and Rocks Glass Method: Combine ingredients into a punch bowl, stir to integrate, add ice to chill, and then stir again to further mix and chill. Pour over ice in a rocks glass, garnish, serve and enjoy!

Ingredients: 3 Cups Cherry Juice 1 cup Orange Juice 2 Cup Martell Cognac 1/2 Cup Kirshwasser 1/2 Cup Chocolate Syrup* Garnish: Cherry *Chocolate Syrup used was store bought Ghirardelli brand, however there are many available store purchased and homemade options available.

Let’s face it, the holidays are a lot of work. Presents, preparations, friends, family, food and more. The list of “to do” activities seemingly never ends.

However, there is one “to do” that can be purely enjoyable – make an awesome punch bowl! The 2021 holiday season is going to rock out with a liquid desert fit for royalty. Inspired from the flavors of traditional Black Forest Cake, this cocktail is meant to be enjoyed after a great meal. The first ingredient is cherry juice. Rich, decadent, and slightly tart, cherry juice is reminiscent of every possible candied desire of childhood.

Pairing beautifully with the cherry juice is brandy. Martell is especially bright here, with its unique floral and bright flavors of baking spice and vanilla. Orange juice adds a softer balance with a little extra sweetness over a harder citrus, yet it makes sure to not overpower those classic confectionary flavors. Preparing for a touch of scintillating sweetness, Kirshwasser adds backbone and boldness to a soon to be indulgent delectable. Finally, chocolate syrup (because what desert would be complete without chocolate?) adds a whole lot of deliciousness, bringing this desert libation to its fullest potential. Yes, the holidays can be a lot of work, but the fun comes via this delicious Holiday Evening Punch.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS YOUR BEST SELF

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Fall is here, it’s leaf peeping season, the nights are drawing in and thoughts are turning towards the holidays. Pumpkin spice lattes are upon us – like it or not – and shortly thereafter a string of festive occasions requiring costumes, gifts, food, drinks, planning, invites…. And breathe!

Maybe you are someone who relishes the opportunity to host expansive family dinners, who loves the social interaction, the fanfare and Hallmark movies. Or maybe as soon as those leaves start to turn, you feel a sense of panic that here comes the season of chaos and an abundance of socializing. 2020 Was a tough year for traditional gettogethers and while 2021 is far from ‘back to normal’ (whatever normal looks like these days), many of us will be back to some degree of festive celebrations this year.

When writing about health and wellness and the

1.

Remember to try to find the fun in any given situation.

Yes, there is a lot of work involved when hosting an event, but the importance of being playful should not be overlooked. Connect with your inner child and seek joy in simple things.

2. If you are traditionally a last-minute kind of planner who usually ends up highly stressed, start thinking about your holiday season now. Make a holiday calendar, write down dates and times of party invites you plan to attend or host, then look at what you may need to buy or prepare for each event and create lists.

Prioritize those lists then tackle one at a time.

3. Create a budget if you need to. How much can you afford / do you want to spend on a Halloween costume, on food for Thanksgiving, or on gifts? You can write the budget on your lists from point 2 so you know what you are comfortable spending. A huge source of stress at this time of year is the financial aspect, so if you can stick to a budget, it is easier to enjoy the holiday season.

holidays, the go-to subject is usually how to tackle the inevitable increase in food and alcohol intake without undoing all of your healthy eating habits and efforts in the gym. But there is another aspect to making the most out of this time of year that often gets overlooked, rising stress levels and mental health. How do you get through the holiday season without feeling frazzled by the aforementioned socializing, planning and creative demands?

If you are a master-of-planning, the type of person who has a “fail to plan, plan to fail” sign hanging above your desk, this is your moment to shine! For everyone else, here are some top tips to help you through the holiday season without doubling your cortisol levels:

4. Be OK with saying no! You don’t have to attend absolutely every holiday event, there is nothing wrong with being selective and making the most out of the events you plan to attend.

5. Ask for help. When you are planning your event, think about who is around that can help and assign them specific tasks. Just asking for general help can lead to enthusiastic volunteers looking a little lost, but give them a designated task and your workload will decrease.

6. Prioritize taking good care of yourself, eating healthy food and getting plenty of sleep. This is, above and beyond, the best way to keep up the stamina to enjoy the holiday season!

Hopefully, the holiday season will be filled with fun and provide the chance to catch up with those you may not have been able to see during the pandemic. Human connection is important to all of us and something many of us have missed recently, so try to focus this year’s holiday celebrations on just that, creating special moments with those you love.

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MONEY & FINANCE

Fall MONEY SENSE

is here

AND CHANGE IS IN THE AIR

WRITTEN BY MARC S. SCHLIEFER, CFP®️RICP®️ WEALTH ADVISOR AND CEO

I am writing this article in August while there is still uncertainty on tax law changes and spending bills in congress. I am hoping that by the time this article comes out we may have a much better understanding of what the new tax world will look like. Then we can determine if there are moves that you can make by the end of the year to protect yourself and your family from paying too much in tax now and in the future. Some of the changes may be retroactive to earlier this year and if that is the case, there may not be much that you can do. Hopefully, that will not be the case. However, retroactive changes have happened in the past, so it is not out of the question.

Hopefully any changes that come about will be effective next year so you will still have time to plan with your advisors. If any tax laws get passed, I would suggest you make an appointment with your CPA, estate lawyer and financial advisor to determine how the changes may impact your financial situation. If capital gains rates jump to 40.8%, you may want to look at selling some stocks, mutual funds and real estate. If you have investments that have lost money, you may want to harvest these losses to offset gains when you sell appreciated assets. I would suggest you review your nonretirement investments and look at the cost basis of everything and see if you can offset gains with losses to minimize the impact of cleaning up your portfolio.

Some of the changes may not only impact your current taxes on your income and your investments, they may possibly impact your estate planning strategies. Currently the amount that you individually can have in your estate without any federal estate taxes is $11.7 million and for a couple that amount is $23.4 million. That amount will sunset in 2026 to $5.7 million for an individual and $11.4 million for a couple. Most states have some type of inheritance taxes that may have a lower limit. There is talk about reducing the federal estate limit substantially. The figures have been all over the place and I don’t want to speculate what the results will be, but there is a lot of momentum to lower the amount of the federal estate tax exclusion substantially. If those changes happen, many people that didn’t have to worry about estate taxes may find themselves in a taxable estate situation and therefore they should look at getting some estate planning done to minimize their potential tax burden. Once the changes are announced or we have a better handle on what the changes will be, I would suggest setting up a meeting with your estate lawyer to see if you need to make any changes to your estate plan. There may be some trusts and other strategies that could possibly help you plan and reduce estate taxes for you and your loved ones.

The purpose of this article is to alert you that there are likely changes coming to the tax and estate laws in this country. The proposed changes are all over the map and they may or may not happen as they are proposed. The

political and law-making process make this anybody’s guess as to what the final outcome will be. You need to be aware that when the changes happen, you should be contacting your legal, tax and financial advisors to determine if you need to make changes to your current financial strategies.

There may be some changes that are easy to make and some that are not so easy to make. Please feel free to email me if you need to discuss your particular situation and if you need a reference to a CPA or estate lawyer, my email is marcs@equityplanning.com. I would recommend watching the news and keeping an eye out for articles and any updates on tax law changes to try to put yourself and your family in the best possible position in navigating the changes that get approved on Capitol Hill.

This piece is not intended to provide specific legal, tax, or other professional advice. For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor.

Equity Planning Inc. 7910 Woodmont Ave., Suite 900, Bethesda, MD 20814 Securities offered through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through CWM, LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor.

Cetera Advisor Networks LLC is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Advisor Networks LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice.

A diversified portfolio does not assure a profit or protect against loss in a declining market.

The views stated in this letter are not necessarily the opinion of Cetera Advisor Networks LLC and should not be construed directly or indirectly as an offer to buy or sell any securities mentioned herein. Due to volatility within the markets mentioned, opinions are subject to change without notice. Information is based on sources believed to be reliable; however, their accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

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STYLIST FASHION FOWARD

2022

IS NEARLY HERE! Women’s Stylist 2022 is nearly here! The time has, as they say, flown by this year. Heading out to a special NYE event or feel like ringing in the year at home in special duds to celebrate the event? Here are a few fashion ideas to kick off the new year in style… as you will see, it’s all about the color!

Men’s Stylist New Year’s Eve wardrobe cravings might shift slightly from year to year, but the basic philosophy never changes. December 31 is always going to call for something slightly more luxurious and confident than the rest of the year.

BOLD AND BRIGHT New Year is one of the happiest holidays of the year. Therefore, the dresses for this day should be accordingly happy and bright.

ALL IN WHITE White is associated with snow, of course, therefore anything white for the New Year celebration is a great idea. This year, many fashion houses designed in white for the season.

DO BE BLUE The hues of a winter night sky are of rich, thick, dark blue colors. Designers claim that any shade of blue is a reminder of that gorgeous looking winter sky during this holiday celebration.

ALL THAT GLITTERS Gold is the symbol of elegance. Donning a golden dress on NYE will show off a sophisticated taste.

BLACK Nobody can deny the effect of a wellselected black dress. Its simplicity and elegance are always in style.

THE BLACK SUIT A slim-cut black suit is almost never the wrong choice and on New Year’s Eve it’s a guaranteed hit.

THE BLACK SWEATER If you prefer more casual flair, grab a chunky black sweater, pair it with black pants and shoes and you are off to a good time.

PARTY TROUSERS This is New Year’s Eve so give up your jeans and khakis and be the hit of the party! Pin stripes or prints, pair them with a simple sweater and enjoy the compliments.

NOVELTY KNITWEAR Yes. You read that right. If the night is going to be spent casually with the closest of friends and family, nothing says holidays like a novelty sweater.

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BUZZ DAILY DC

GHOST KITCHENS

A kitchen trailer in Clarendon that popped up last summer in a vacant lot has since been joined by two others.

And now they’re producing meals from more than a half-dozen “ghost kitchens” available on food delivery platforms such as DoorDash and Grubhub. Out of these kitchens come fried chicken sandwiches, asada fries and Asian street food, among other dishes.

The three trailers between the Clarendon Whole Foods and the PNC Bank are owned by REEF Technology, a company focused on turning underutilized, urban parking lots into food and logistics hubs. The food service arm of Reef is called NBRHD Kitchens. (ArlNow)

SUCCOTASH

Succotash, celebrity chef Edward Lee’s luxe Southern restaurant in Penn Quarter, has reopened with a new name reflecting a steakhousestyle makeover that took place while it was temporarily closed for over a year. Now known as Succotash Prime, the restaurant introduces a revamped menu listing smoked steaks with a range of sauces and a la carte sides that maintain the Kentuckian and Korean influences Lee imbued into the original. (DC Eater)

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AMAZON

Amazon has plans in the works to open large brick-and-mortar stores the size of small department stores to sell clothing, household items and electronics. The stores, which are expected to be approximately 30,000 square feet and will likely prominently feature Amazon’s private-label goods like electronic devices so customers can have a hands-on experience with them, those familiar with the plan said.

In Greater Washington, Amazon has two Amazon Books stores in Bethesda and Georgetown and one 4-star in Bethesda. It has also opened two Amazon Fresh stores open and has a handful of other grocery or convenience stores in the works locally. Click here for an accounting of the company’s D.C. area holdings. (WBJ)

INTERNATIONAL PIZZA CHALLENGE

A New York-style pizza won the top prize at the International Pizza Challenge on Wednesday—but the pie didn’t come from a Manhattan slice joint. Andy’s Pizza owner Andy Brown is behind the winning pizza, impressing judges with a cheese pie on the menu at his DC and McLean pizzerias.

The 14-year-old pizza competition splits contenders into three categories: traditional, non-traditional, and pan. Brown clinched the top spot in the traditional category, also prevailing as the champion of the Northeast region. Connoisseurs scored the pie on a variety of taste metrics, including crust, sauce, cheese, toppings, and overall taste. Brown’s prevailing pizza? Foldable slices of shredded cheese and red sauce layered on dough that ferments for 72 hours. The win garnered the pizzaioli a pie-shaped trophy and a $7,500 check. (Washingtonian)

CULTURE WHERE ART AND LIFE MEET

THE NUTCRACKER THE WASHINGTON BALLET November 27 - December 26 Warner Theater One of the most iconic annual performances in the District, this celebrated production is set in historic 1882 Georgetown with George Washington, King George III, and other historical figures. Set to Tchaikovsky’s score, the celebrated classic comes to life with intricate, stunning set designs, original period costumes and over 100 dancers (including students and trainees from The Washington School of Ballet.) It has become the signature Nutcracker of the nation’s capital and a lasting holiday tradition not to be missed.

The Washington Ballet offers many special events adjunct with the performance…

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT The Washington Ballet brings the magic of The Nutcracker to service men and women and their families for Military Appreciation Night.

Guests will be greeted at the Warner Theatre by military dignitaries and Nutcracker cast members and will be treated to an exclusive behind-thescenes rehearsal of The Nutcracker ‘Soldiers Marching.’ On this night, everyone is encouraged to wear red, white, and blue.

FAMILY DAY Family Day is an interactive experience where children of all ages can participate in activities and festivities prior to the matinee performance.

They can stop by craft stations for coloring, ornament making, and search-a-word, photo ops with dancers, and the opportunity to watch a rehearsal and learn how dancers prepare for performance.

THE NUTCRACKER TEA PARTY On December 5 at The Willard InterContinental Hotel, guests are transported to an enchanting winter wonderland where they will indulge in tea sandwiches, fresh scones, sweet treats, holiday teas, crisp champagne (for the adults), and pose for photos with the iconic Snow Queen and Sugar Plum Fairy. Experience teatime prior to or after the matinee performance of The Washington Ballet’s performance.

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DIPLOMACY DC INTERNATIONAL

SPORTS DOMINATES CZECH EMBASSY’S 2021 ‘MUTUAL INSPIRATIONS’ FESTIVAL This year’s edition of the Annual Mutual Inspirations Festival was dedicated to Czech gymnast and patriot Věra Čáslavská, a seven-time Olympic gold medalist, four-time World Champion and 11-time European Champion. In 1968, Čáslavská was named the world’s best athlete and the second-most popular woman on the planet after Jackie Kennedy. (Previous festivals have been dedicated, among other famous Czechs, to tennis star Martina Navrátilová, novelist Franz Kafka, composer Antonín Dvořák and filmmaker Miloš Forman.) Čáslavská, who died in 2016, was also an adviser to President Václav Havel, president of the Czech Olympic Committee and a member of the International Olympic Committee.

The festival launched on Sept. 2 with the first of 10 events: the screening of Véra 68, a documentary film by director Olga Sommerová that chronicles Čáslavská’s rise to fame and her simple act of defiance against the Soviet Union during the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City.

On Sept. 9, the Czech Embassy hosted an online conversation with author and attorney Gerhardt Bubnik on “Law and Sport: The Life Odyssey of Harvard’s First Czech Law Graduate.” Among other things, Bubnik—who became a figure-skating judge at top international competitions—discussed his role in the 1994 Tonya Harding/Nancy Kerrigan scandal.

Continuing a tradition that started last year, the Czech Embassy Bike Challenge 2021 features a 19.18-km track in honor of Czech independence, which was established in 1918. The route begins at the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal Towpath in Georgetown, under the Key Bridge, and finishes at Mile Marker 13 at Great Falls, Virginia.

Likewise, a Fitness Challenge is scheduled for Oct. 13. That’s when the Czech Embassy’s main hall will turn into a training facility with leading local personal trainer, coach and fitness specialist Tomas Trnka.

Beginners and fitness enthusiasts are welcome to join in the powerful Work Out of the Day (WOD) and learn about the positive impact of behavior change and mental focus on their personal fitness goals.

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PURVEYOR OF THE WA SHINGTONIAN LUXURY LIFEST YLE

+1 703 798 0097 | john@johneric.com Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. All measurements 85 and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and as Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 3001 Washington Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington, VA 22201 | 703.822.7400

ELEGANCE. SOPHISTICATION. STYLE. We are pleased to bring to you a portfolio of some of the most luxurious properties currently on offer in the United States. Amazing homes and estates from Scottsdale to Southern California, from New York to Turks & Caicos and – of course – from Washington DC to Northern Virginia to Suburban Maryland. The John Eric + Trevor Moore Team, along with its real estate partners nationwide, have their fingers on the pulse of luxury. johnandtrevor.com

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Compass is a licensed real estate brokerage that abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is not guar

JOHN HOME as ERIC Compass in Virginia and Maryland. 3001 Washington Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington, VA 22201 | 703.822.7400

ranteed. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Compass is licensed as Compass Real Estate in DC and

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501 N. GARFIELD LUXURY FAMILY LIVING THE CONVENIENCE OF AN ADDRESS IN ONE OF THE MOST FAMILY FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOODS

Welcome to 501 N. Garfield in one of Arlington’s hottest neighborhoods of Lyon Park.

This home has been refreshed and renewed and shines bright. Situated on a corner lot, this home provides tremendous curb appeal. This home provides an exceptional property to live and entertain. Some features include a spacious living room with fireplace, dining room, an open and expansive kitchen, main level bedroom, full bath and screened in porch perfect for year round entertaining. This home has hardwood floors on the main and upper levels, a true primary suite with attached en-suite and walk-in closet. The upper level contains 2 additional spacious bedrooms and another full bath. This home has stunning lighting fixtures throughout. The lower level has a custom design space family room made for movie night and will remind you of a room worthy of a Hollywood screening room with wet bar. The lower level features the home’s 5th bedroom with attached en-suite, dedicated laundry room and extras storage. The lush landscaping on this lot is magazine cover worthy. Private fenced-in area in back, detached garage, circular driveway, sprinklers around property all located next to two amazing Arlington Parks. Minutes away from Clarendon Metro Station, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and convenient to many restaurants and shopping. The best of urban living awaits.

John Eric john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com

LORCOM LANE LUXURY ESTATE LIVING AN EXCEPTIONAL LUXURY EXPERIENCE AWAITS THE MOST DISCERNING BUYER

This exquisite luxury estate is set in the highly sought-after neighborhood of Lee Heights in North Arlington. This classic colonial sits beautifully among mature trees with wellmanicured grounds that command your attention with grand graceful lines, elegance and presence.

3911 Lorcom has been meticulously renovated and seamlessly blends classic architecture with today’s modern amenities. When entering the home, you are met with an open, yet private floor plan, tall ceilings, magnificent windows radiating natural light, a two story family room and beautifully designed spaces that can be used for intimate family gatherings or large-scale events.

John Eric john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com

MACKALL FARMS ARTISAN MASTERPIECE AN APPRECIATION FOR PRIVACY AND ELEGANT ENTERTAINING

Since its inception, when Artisan Builders introduced the 2005 Southern Accents Showhome, we have been crafting innovative homes to McLean and Great Falls clients.

Each year we have striven to offer new designs that are fresh and timeless. Today, after 15 years, we present the 2020 Aspire Showhome, offering a modern design inspired by the Renaissance Architecture of Andrea Palladio. The floor plan brings together everything Artisan has learned over these 15 years from listening to its clients, the market and its architect, Harrison Associates. The spaces are light filled, complimented not only with large floor to ceiling windows, but inspired by Palladio, light from the sky above. The floor plan is open while still appreciating the need for privacy and elegant entertaining, and with the Main Level Owner’s Suite a seamless visual connection to the manicured landscaped rear yard. The museum quality craftsmanship is also a reflection of our experience, and you will notice this in every detail inside and outside the home. We are proud to call the Aspire Showhome, an Artisan Masterpiece.

John Eric john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com

LOST CORNER MIDDLEBURG FEEL A WORLD AWAY FROM IT ALL IN THIS LUXURIOUS RETREAT

Feel a world away from it all in this luxurious stucco retreat just 20 minutes from the historic town of Middleburg. Enjoy meaningful moments and fireside chats with your friends and family in the large, open kitchen and living room with ample space and seating areas for everyone to dine and relax. The kitchen is exquisite with top of the line appliances. Just off the kitchen is a cozy dining room, perfect for family dinners! The 12 ft ceilings and large windows throughout usher in natural light and 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge mountains. Relax and unwind in the main floor master suite offering a seating area, large closet with custom built-ins, private access to the pool and patio, and bathroom with marble countertops, double vanity, and a glass-enclosed shower with “waterfall” showerhead. As you venture outdoors, you are greeted with a large in-ground pool surrounded beautiful english gardens.

John Eric john@johnandtrevor.com +1 703 798 0097 johnandtrevor.com

BRENTWOOD PARK ARTISAN MASTERPIECE AN APPRECIATION FOR PRIVACY AND ELEGANT ENTERTAINING

Rare timeless 1926 California Spanish located in prime Brentwood Park. The home has been artfully restored, highlighting its classic features. Gorgeous living room with beamed ceiling, hardwood floors and oversized stone fireplace. Stunning dining room with custom coffered ceiling, fireplace and French doors. New gorgeous chef’s kitchen with large Carrara marble island that opens onto a large family room with fireplace. Custom paneled office with casement doors. Housekeepers’ room and two powder rooms. Upstairs features a sumptuous primary suite with dual closets and large sun-filled bathroom. There are three additional bedrooms plus a second office and gym.

Large grassy front yard and magnificent Moroccan-inspired pool with dining and lounging areas. 4-car garage with gated driveway.

Set back from the street and sited on one of the most premiere streets in Brentwood Park featuring majestic old growth pines and wonderful park-like circles of green space.

Superbly located within walking distance to the Country Mart village. Beautiful living at its finest.

Danny Brown danny.brown@compass.com +1 310.901.7405

THE SOVEREIGN A LUXURIOUS TWO-LEVEL HOME IN THE SKY

Available for the first time in decades, this apartment combines the comfort of a spacious private home with the extravagance of a luxury, full-service building. This exclusive home is accessed by a private elevator landing on the 37th floor. Inside, the central foyer is distinguished by a gorgeous grand staircase to the 38th floor.

The lavish living room featuring a full wet-bar and a private terrace, the expansive chef’s kitchen, and the stately formal dining room are fit to entertain New York’s finest, with views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, East River, and Ed Koch Bridge. Beyond the living room is a generous primary suite, secondary bedroom with ensuite bath and one of the apartment’s two laundry rooms. Upstairs boasts a second living room accompanied by three additional bedrooms and a bonus private terrace.

The building, designed by Emery Roth, features a fitness center, landscaped garden, and full time white glove services and valet parking in coveted Sutton Place.

PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 5.5 baths 6,400 Square feet

2 Terraces 4 exposures with iconic NYC Views

TONI HABER TEAM | Private Client Advisors toni@compass.com +1 917 543 1999

SAFARI DRIVE SCOTTSDALE WORLD-CLASS ARCHITECTURE WITH A PREMIER ADDRESS IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN SCOTTSDALE

World-class architecture with a premier address in the heart of Downtown Scottsdale.

Safari Drive is one of the most highly sought after urban developments offering a balance of excitement and intimacy. The elegant mid-rise community was designed by renowned architect, Miller Hull. No expense was spared in the interior renovation and design of this highly coveted ground floor unit. Distinguishing features include abundant natural light, powered shades, chef’s kitchen, custom fireplaces, wet bar, pool views, and a dynamic and flexible floor plan conducive to sophisticated entertaining. The two ultraconvenient sideby-side garage parking spaces directly next to the elevator are an exceptionally rare feature.

All of this, just steps from shopping, fine dining, entertainment, Waterfront Canal trails, and an unprecedented arts and cultural district. Residents enjoy on-site management, two pools, fitness gym, BBQ grills & gathering areas, and mail/package lockers.

NICOLE KOBRINSKY Broker Associate, Scottsdale +1 480 487 4534 nicole@nicolekobrinsky.com nicolekobrinsky.com

WYMARA PENTHOUSE 1502 COOL, CHIC AND CONTEMPORARY

Wymara Penthouse 1502 personifies the cool, chic and contemporary stylings of Wymara Resort. Boasting some of the most amazing Grace Bay and Ocean views in all of the Turks & Caicos this luxurious property has an incredible 70’ of beautiful ocean views along a 1,055 square foot wrap-around terrace. The 2,647 square foot interior seamlessly blends with the terrace through tall sliding glass doors inviting the beautiful turquoise hues of the Princess Alexandra National Park into the open plan living and dining space. With 11’ ceilings the penthouse is awash with light and the indoor/outdoor living space creates the perfect space within which to relax and to entertain. The spacious master and second bedroom offer breathtaking ocean views and all three bedrooms come complete with elegant soaking tubs and large glassed rain showers. Residents enjoy all of the Wymara Resort amenities such as cabanas, Zest and Stelle restaurants, room service, luxury services, and of course, the award winning Spa. This Penthouse offers it all conveniently situated just moments from additional dining choices, entertainment, and the world-famous Grace Bay Beach. The property has retained its status as a private vacation residence for two previous owners and as such has been maintained impeccably.

PROPERTY FEATURES 3 bedrooms 3.5 baths 3,702 Square feet

SEAN O’NEILL Managing Director | The Agency Turks and Caicos Sean.ONeill@TheAgencyRe.tc 649 232 1316 TheAgencyRE.com

THE CASTLE ALEXANDER VALLEY PANORAMA DESIGNED TO TAKE ONE’S BREATH AWAY.

Welcome to The Castle. One of the most unique properties in all of Arizona. This amazing home is perfect for a large family retreat with 6200 sqft finished and another 1800 unfinished upstairs. Combine that with a heated 2200 sqft garage and space is of no issue. Looking for a high-performance investment property? This home is one of the top short-term rentals in all northern Arizona. Contact Agent for numbers. Original concept and masonry construction coming straight out of European modern castle design, this masterpiece is comparable to none. Over three acres to provide absolute tranquility, your get away to the mountains is still close to town while also having all the amenities of Continental Country Club. Experience the unique presence of mountain luxury at The Castle.

PROPERTY FEATURES 5 bedrooms 6 baths 6,260 Square feet

CHAD DRAGOS Luxury Real Estate Advisor Chad.Dragos@TheAgencyre.com (928) 890-9155

31 PRESIDIO TERRACE SAN FRANCISCO

31 Presidio Terrace, a San Francisco haven in the midst of Presidio Terrace, offers a magical world all its own, rooted in the richness of unrestricted comforts. The home is nestled on a one-way, private road, offering exceptional security, tranquility and an immersive escape into towering trees, serene trails and the historic Presidio Golf Course. Soaring ceilings and vast entrances lead from room to room, providing an open floor plan for warm gatherings with friends and family and hosting of formal events, from black tie soirees to fundraising galas.

PROPERTY FEATURES 7 bedrooms 7.5 baths 9,245 Square feet Elevator Multiple indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces

KEVIN WONG DRE#: 01331542 415.290.2927 www.kevinswong.com thegoods-sf.com/kevinwong

LEIPER’S FORK NASHVILLE MODERN EURO FARMHOUSE

Just 30 minutes from Nashville in an area of Franklin known as iconic Leiper’s Fork you will find a one of a kind Modern Euro farmhouse nestled on 42 acres of untouched beauty. This gated estate has serene views with a pond and bordered by Murphree’s Fork Creek. This home has an outdoor retreat with a fenced backyard featuring a heated pool & spa, fire pit, pergola and covered patio with a built-in kitchen. High quality finishes from top to bottom with a main floor owners suite with two walk-in closets & a luxury ensuite. This European farmhouse offers charming and cozy interior living spaces that makes you feel right at home. With the use of rough hewn wood beams and European white oak flooring, there is plenty of added warmth throughout. The gourmet kitchen offers top of the line appliances including a Lacanche range and a hidden prep/pantry/safe room. Main floor office/ bedroom, and an oversized laundry room with double washer & dryers and a laundry chute steps away. No detail left to spare in this home. The seller collaborated with the design firm P. Shea Design to thoughtfully design a custom home that offers views in every direction.

The home was artfully built by Montgomery Classic Construction and is truly a one of a kind estate in Leipers Fork, with the land preserved through the Land Trust for Tennessee, the land will remain majestic forever.

ERIN KRUEGER The Erin Krueger Team 615.509.7166 www.erinkrueger.com

9 & 11 COOLIDGE POINT MANCHESTERBY-THE-SEA, MASSACHUSETTS

The best places on the New England coast were snapped up by major families hundreds of years ago, and rarely appear on the market. Even rarer properties are those generously donated to charitable organizations because of their importance and beauty. 9 & 11 Coolidge Point is all that, a 15.1± acre estate with pond and ocean frontage, and dramatic views to the Boston skyline. It is being offered to the public for the first time, subject to restrictions designed to both protect the property and to ensure that it will be a comfortable home for generations to come.

PROPERTY FEATURES 4 bedrooms 5 baths 5,940 Square feet 15.1± acre estate with pond Oceanfront setting with over 800’ of frontage along Kettle Cove Multiple indoor and outdoor entertaining spaces

RUTH KENNEDY SUDDUTH rksudduth@landvest.com +1-617-357-0455 landvest.com

YORKVILLE AVENUE GRAND LUXURY THE CONVENIENCE OF GRAND HOTEL LIVING

Welcome to 118 Yorkville Avenue. Grand and impressive describes this truly unique 6,300 sq.ft conjoined corner suite in the heart of Yorkville. Boasting 9 rooms 6 balconies, private elevator access, 5 fireplaces and 4 parking spaces. A perfect blend of regal classical renaissance and modern design. No expense spared in any of the finishings or details in this Hazelton Hotel suite.

PROPERTY FEATURES 3 + 1 bedrooms 5 baths 6,300 Square feet

Richard Silver rsilver@sothebysrealty.ca +1 416.587.3300 torontoism.com

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