Capitol File - 2015 - Issue 1 - Spring

10

SPRING FASHION

th

ANNIVERSARY YEAR

TALK ABOUT A REVOLUTION! TOP TASTEMAKERS REVEL IN DC’S FAST-CHANGING STYLE ’70S-INSPIRED TRENDS HIT THE DISTRICT DC JOURNALISTS PAY HOMAGE TO BEN BRADLEE

PLUS KATIE COURIC DANA BRUNETTI MAROON 5

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NICHE MEDIA HOLDINGS, LLC

SNL’S CECILY STRONG BRINGS HER STYLE AND SMARTS TO HOST THE WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS’ DINNER

S M A L L B AYS WAT E R S ATC H E L T YS O N S GA L L E R I A T E L : 7 0 3 . 74 8 . 73 0 0 M U L B E R RY. CO M

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FRONT RUNNER Joe Alsop shared the garden room of his Georgetown home with his toucan, Bill, who once dropped a banana on Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara’s head during a 1961 interview. Bill was later replaced with two mourning doves.

Cold War retreat

Dressed in his favorite kimono, syndicated columnist Joe Alsop spent mornings during the Cold War reading the daily newspapers in his garden room—a “cool, green, private place”—that was the centerpiece of his house in Georgetown, at the time an increasingly affluent and exclusive Washington, DC, enclave.

Together with his brother, Stewart, Alsop wrote a political column, “Matter of Fact,” which appeared four times per week in The Washington Post and nearly 200 other papers around the country, garnering a readership of 25 million. The column was a must-read for the diplomats, policy makers, and spies who lived in the capital—many of whom were the Alsops’ close friends and Georgetown neighbors. In fact, the brothers were among the most famous and influential pundits of Cold War–era America.

Even Alsop’s house, which he helped design, created something of a sensation in Georgetown when it was completed in 1949. In contrast to the neighborhood’s traditional redbrick Regency-style mansions, Alsop’s house was constructed entirely of cinder block, with steel casement windows and a second-floor entrance at the top of a winding staircase. Even more of an

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affront was its exterior color—a bilious yellow.

Alsop jokingly dubbed his home’s unique architectural style “Garage Palladian,” and cheerfully admitted that it was “a heinous outrage against Georgetown charm.” His neighbors agreed. Within weeks of its unveiling, the local citizens association approved a municipal ordinance preventing any more cinder-block houses from being built in Georgetown.

Nonetheless, a dinner invitation to 2720 Dumbarton Avenue (the Avenue was later changed to Street) quickly became one of the most sought after in the capital as people vied for a chance to attend one of Georgetown’s most famous salons— where the nation’s leaders drank martinis, supped on Alsop’s signature terrapin soup, and made decisions that would affect the fate of humanity. It was from one such supper that Alsop’s guests were summoned to deal with the communist invasion of South Korea. A decade later, during another of Alsop’s dinner parties at Dumbarton, President Kennedy sought advice from the country’s top Russian experts on how to respond to the Soviet Union’s clandestine introduction of nuclear missiles into Cuba. That night, the terrapin soup would have to wait. Cf

photography by Francis Miller/the liFe picture collection/getty iMages

Joe Alsop’s eccentric GeorGetown home wAs the unlikely meetinG plAce For Dc power plAyers who FormulAteD AmericA’s Decisive colD wAr policies. by gregg herken

FRONT RUNNER clockwise from bottom left: Ben Bradlee and

Washington Warrior

plenty came out in october to honor the passing of the washington post’s most iconic editor, but Ben Bradlee’s friends and colleagues remember the man behind the legend. by jonathan capehart Ben Bradlee was the gruff patrician whose love of journalism turned The Washington Post into a newspaper of national consequence. He inspired journalists by publishing the Pentagon Papers and by supporting two young reporters whose Watergate exposé toppled a president.

And he was a charming fixture on the New York and Washington social scenes, with devoted friends who celebrated his life on October 29 of last year. I’ve collected some Bradlee stories that capture the greatness, character, and appeal of the man.

“When the ‘Deep Throat’ story broke, I called Ben, who didn’t want to do an interview,

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but ended up agreeing. So I ran to The Post, and we had an amazing conversation. He was so proud of having kept the source secret for so many decades, even from the love of his life, Sally. Because of that pledge to [Bob] Woodward and [Carl] Bernstein, the source was sacrosanct. He was, beyond everything else, a man of integrity.”

—Andrea Mitchell “Funny that the one quote from Ben that we always joked about was the one I used in my eulogy. Once I went in to ask for a raise. Ben looked up from his crossword and said, ‘You ought to be paying me to work here for all the fun you are having.’ He was right, because he made being first and getting a

scoop, especially beating The New York Times on a story, a joyful event not just for the reporter, but for the whole paper.” —Walter Pincus “When I first arrived at The Post in 1971, Ben had been in charge for six years. He said, ‘When I first came here, I thought I could fix National; then I’d fix Metro, Foreign, and Sports; and then the place would be fixed. Now I know when you turn to the second and third sections, the first gets screwed up in a new way.

You have to fix them all, all the time.’” —Don Graham “I remember when I became [the DC] bureau chief with the San Francisco Examiner.

My move from politics to journalism made me the

target for some deans [of the profession]—Dick Harwood, David Broder. I went to see Ben in the newsroom and after blasting Harwood’s column, Ben said, ‘What?

You come in here to lift your leg on me?’ I left feeling like quite a guy: This great, heroic man had treated [me] like I was someone to be dealt with.

Charm? No, this is something far deeper.”

—Chris Matthews “What I remember most are the many lunches with Ben alone. I was always instructed and inspired. He was teaching and did not know it. We shared our personal histories, family joys and sorrows, current events, and our ups and downs. We were friends.”

—Vernon Jordan

“Much of my time with Ben was in East Hampton. His secret to ‘the good life’ was living both high and low. He knew Watergate wasn’t going to happen every day, so he took pleasure in the ordinary, not just the Pulitzers. He’d offer me a spoon, and we’d dig into a pint of Ben & Jerry’s until we hit the bottom of the carton.”

—Margaret Carlson “Ben and Sally were the best neighbors—terrific parties, cool pool. Here’s the only problem: Every time we saw Ben, [my wife] Ali [Wentworth] would go on and on about his sexiest-man-inDC status. I finally had to agree to make him her free pass.” —George Stephanopoulos cf

photography by Charles del VeCChio/the Washington post Via getty images (graham); robert delVaC/ Copyright bettmann/Corbis/ap images (typeWriter); Chris FelVer/getty images (bradlee)

Katharine Graham, publisher of The Washington Post, react to the Supreme Court decision permitting them to publish the Pentagon Papers; as a young journalist, Bradlee was nearly expelled from France after requesting to interview rebels in Algeria; Bradlee in 1994.

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contents

spring 2015

8

// front runner

26 // letter from the editor-in-Chief

28 // letter from the publisher

30 // ... Without Whom

this issue Would not have been possible

32 // the list 69 // invited

style 35 // dapper in the distriCt

Paul Stuart comes to CityCenterDC, helmed by designer Ralph Auriemma.

38 // form and flair Cubistic accessories add a black and white dimension to DC style.

42 // a neW

lease on luxe

Rent the Runway launches a brick-and-mortar store in Georgetown.

Styles from the ’70s make a comeback this spring.

Suede blouse ($4,050) and brass ring embellished shorts ($1,895), Chloé.

Neiman Marcus, Tysons Galleria, 703-761-1600; neimanmarcus.com.

Turban (worn as top) ($270) and bangles ($250–$300 each), Missoni.

Nordstrom, Tysons Corner, 703-761-1121; nordstrom.com

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Caroline Issa designs for Nordstrom; Bulgari’s new gemstone-inspired fragrance collection; Neiman Marcus offers stylish stays to St. Regis guests; and Ferragamo lands at CityCenterDC.

46 // Chrono Cool Chronograph watches are making strong inroads with women who love an active life and look.

photography by rene & radka

90

44 // style spotlight

Malibu • Newport Coast • Laguna Los Angeles • New York City • Palm Beach www.HesperaDesigns.com

spring 2015

64

54

Katie Couric’s passion for cancer awareness has become a calling.

75

Elizabeth’s Gone Raw embraces a raw, organic culinary philosophy from kitchen to cocktails.

The Phillips Collection’s latest exhibition highlights Man Ray’s take on mathematical objects.

culture

people

51 // fifth time’s

59 // being brunetti

the charm

Maroon 5’s James Valentine chats about the band’s latest chart topper and why DC will always be a home away from home.

54 // multiple exposure For the frst time in history, Man Ray’s Shakespearean Equations are being exhibited alongside the 3-D mathematical models that inspired them.

56 // culture spotlight Edward Gero makes a case for Justice Scalia in The Originalist; opening day for the Nationals; the National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off in March; and Union Market’s drive-in returns.

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Dana Brunetti is the force behind two of your guilty pleasures—House of Cards and the Fifty Shades of Grey movie.

64 // standing up to cancer

Katie Couric talks about why fnding a cure for colon cancer, as well as other diseases, has become her life’s work.

photography by jonathan timmes (elizabeth’s); elie posner (sculpture); andrew eccles (couric)

contents

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contents

spring 2015

86

Cecily Strong is only the fourth woman in history to host the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

Dress, Jason Wu ($1,395). Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Ave., 301-657-9000; saks.com.

Ceramic oval link bracelet in sterling silver ($775), Chatelaine double-drop earrings with black onyx and hematine in sterling silver ($740), petite pavé ring with black diamonds in sterling silver ($695), and petite pavé ring with black diamonds in sterling silver ($850), David Yurman. Tysons Galleria, 703-245-3515; david yurman.com. Heels, Charlotte Olympia ($1,095). charlotteolympia.com

taste 75 // raw power Breast cancer survivor Elizabeth Petty shares her passion for vegan cuisine at her restaurant Elizabeth’s Gone Raw.

78 // the morel the merrier

Spring’s bounty brings with it the morel mushroom, which DC chefs are showcasing in scrumptious ways.

80 // move over, bloody mary

With the rise of savory, vegetable-based cocktails, local bartenders get creative.

82 // taste spotlight “Poste Roasts” are back at Poste Brasserie; Big Cork Vineyards opens a tasting room; Plume cooks up a feast ft for a president; wine classes at Eno; and fans celebrate Marvin Gaye Day.

features 86 // live from

washington, it’s saturday night!

Saturday Night Live’s Cecily Strong gears up to host the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner.

By Elizabeth E. Thorp Photography by Nigel Parry

90 // feelin’ groovy Washingtonians wow with a ’70s fashion fashback this spring.

Photography by Rene & Radka

98 // district design

106 // nature in the eye of the storm

Climate change is putting nature’s ability to provide for all of us at risk.

Are we paying enough attention?

By Jill Sigal

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photography by nigel parry

Six local style setters weigh in on the ways DC has upped its fashion game.

By Amy Moeller

pc studio - photo tommaso sartori

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contents 117

Transitional design gives spacious suburban homes a contemporary finish.

spring 2015

haute property 117 // amERiCaN dREam HOusE REdux The suburban stylish are focking to classic homes with luxe appointments and a contemporary feel.

120 // swEET subuRbia

Leave It to Beaver land just got a lot closer to the city.

122 // REal EsTaTE ON THE RisE

Top brokers reveal how to get the most out of paying a premium in today’s booming luxury market.

freely speaking 128 // my wasHiNgTON

ON THE COVER:

Cecily Strong Photography by Nigel Parry/CPi Styling by Gregory Wein/abtp.com Hair by Andrew Fitzsimons/abtp.com using Oribe Makeup by Mari Shten using Charlotte Tilbury Video: Emilie Jackson Shot on location at The Tuscany, 120 E. 39th St., New York, NY, 212-686-1600; www.stgiles.com Dress, Lela Rose ($1,895). Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 202-966-9700; neiman marcus.com. Shoes, Jimmy Choo ($595).

The Collection at Chevy Chase, 240-223-1102; jimmychoo.com

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photography Courtesy of the fleisher group

Spring isn’t just for cherry blossoms: For Carl Ray, the city comes to life with culture and its colorful residents.

JOIN US ONLINE at capitolfle-magazine.com

We have the inside scoop on Washington’s best parties, pursuits, and more. home

SPRING DÉCOR TIPS FROM THE PROS Get your home ready for spring with tips and trends straight from the experts.

photos

Couldn’t attend?

Browse the newest photos from the most exclusive parties in Washington, DC.

tech

APPS EVERY WASHINGTONIAN NEEDS Our guide to all the apps you need to download right now.

COME FOLLOW US

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BLINKA (HOME); MARGOT SCHULMAN AND YASSINE EL MANSOURI (STREEP); PCRUCIATTI (TECH)

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ELIZABETH E. THORP Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor OUSSAMA ZAHR Art Director ALLISON FLEMING Photo Editor REBECCA SAHN Associate Editor AMY MOELLER Fashion Editor FAYE POWER Copy Editor JOHANNA MATTSSON Contributing Researcher KAREN MCCREE

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Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations LANA BERNSTEIN Senior Director of Brand Development ROBIN KEARSE Director of Brand Development JOANNA TUCKER Brand Development Managers CHRISTIAMILDA CORREA, JIMMY KONTOMANOLIS Director of Creative Services SCOTT ROBSON Promotions Art Designers KAITLYN RICHERT, CARLY RUSSELL Event Marketing Directors AMY FISCHER, HALEE HARCZYNSKI, KIMMY WILSON Event Marketing Managers ANTHONY ANGELICO, JUDSON BARDWELL, CRISTINA PARRA, ASHLEY VEHSLAGE Event Marketing Coordinator BROOKE BIDDLE Event Marketing Assistant SHANA KAUFMAN ADVERTISING PRODUCTION

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J.P. ANDERSON (Michigan Avenue), SPENCER BECK (Los Angeles Confidential), ANDREA BENNETT (Vegas), KATHY BLACKWELL (Austin Way), KRISTIN DETTERLINE (Philadelphia Style), LISA PIERPONT (Boston Common), CATHERINE SABINO (Gotham), JARED SHAPIRO (Ocean Drive), DAMIEN WILLIAMSON (Executive Editor, Aspen Peak), SAMANTHA YANKS (Hamptons) PUBLISHERS

JOHN M. COLABELLI (Philadelphia Style), LOUIS F. DELONE (Austin Way), DAWN DUBOIS (Gotham), ALEXANDRA HALPERIN (Aspen Peak), DEBRA HALPERT (Hamptons), GLEN KELLEY (Boston Common), COURTLAND LANTAFF (Ocean Drive), ALISON MILLER (Los Angeles Confidential), DAN USLAN (Michigan Avenue), JOSEF VANN (Vegas)

Managing Partner JANE GALE Chairman and Director of Photography JEFF GALE Chief Operating Officer MARIA BLONDEAUX Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer JOHN P. KUSHNIR Chief Executive Officer KATHERINE NICHOLLS Copyright 2015 by Niche Media Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved. Capitol File magazine is published six times per year. Reproduction without permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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TWEET WORTHY SPRING COLLECTION 2015

TYSONS II GALLERIA | WASHINGTON, DC | MGBWHOME.COM FEATURING: BASTILLE CHAIR, HUNTER SOFA, LAWSON DRAWER SIDE TABLE, MELROSE COCKTAIL TABLE, POWERSHAG RUG, RUBIX LAMP, TRANSITION ART

Letter from the editor-in-Chief

from left: At our holiday issue cover party with Fox’s Ed Henry, cover girl Megan Boone, and The Atlantic’s Steve Clemons; my debut as “The Merry Widow” along with Cakelove’s Warren Brown in The

Live from New York, it’s Cecily Strong, our beautiful and hilarious cover star.

I’m writing this in early January, which experts say is the most depressing time of the year. I’m back in the office after our holiday cover party with The Blacklist’s Megan Boone, a starring role in The Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker (stop snickering, please), and a long break in Aspen—and I’m not blue in the least. In fact, I’m downright giddy! Why? Because I’ve just returned from New York City, where I interviewed our hilarious and talented cover star, Cecily Strong. A lead player on Saturday Night Live, Strong is getting ready to host the 2015 White House Correspondents’ Association dinner in April.

Originally from Chicago, the comedian is connected to the WHCA through her father, Bill Strong, a renowned former Associated Press bureau chief at the Illinois Statehouse. She will be the fourth woman to host the WHCA dinner in its 84-year history, and no doubt she’ll have the WHCA dinner guests in stitches.

There’s no better time to take stock of DC’s evolving fashion scene

than on the eve of one of the biggest gala events of the year. In that spirit, we gathered together a who’s who of District tastemakers for a lively conversation about how Washington has stepped up its style game. The one thing everyone seemed to agree on was the influence of DC-based television shows like Scandal and House of Cards, in which glamorous, tough-as-nails characters express their ferocity through impeccably tailored clothes.

With Netflix set to release the third season of House of Cards on February 26, I sat down with executive producer Dana Brunetti (p. 59) to find out how a boy from Covington, VA, went on to spearhead two of the hottest properties in television and film right now— Brunetti is also the mastermind behind the highly anticipated film adaptation of the sultry Fifty Shades of Grey. It may be cold outside, but spring is already heating up.

elizabeth e . thorp Follow me on Twitter at @elizabethethorp and on capitolfile-magazine.com.

26 capitolfile-magazine.com

photography by theo Kossenas for the Washington ballet (broWn); seth olenicK (strong); paul Morigi/getty iMages (boone)

Washington Ballet’s The Nutcracker.

ASPEN PEAK | AUSTIN WAY | BOSTON COMMON | CAPITOL FILE | GOTHAM | HAMPTONS LOS ANGELES CONFIDENTIAL | MICHIGAN AVENUE | OCEAN DRIVE | PHILADELPHIA STYLE | VEGAS

LETTER from the Publisher 1

FROM LEFT:

Celebrating our holiday cover at The Woodley with Bozzuto’s Jessica Itzel and Catherine Saunders; Marc Schappell, Kristen Rohde, Samira Farmer, Ed McAllister, and Tom Anderson at the 2015 Washington Winter Show.

2

Ten years ago this fall, Capitol File set out on a mission to connect, captivate, and celebrate with consciousness in Washington, DC. And what fodder the last decade has provided to do just that!

When Capitol File was first published, the Nationals were just finishing up their first season at RFK Stadium, and the Verizon Center was still named the MCI Center.

The Collection at Chevy Chase was slowly opening with a powerful lineup of luxury retailers, such as Ralph Lauren and Tiffany & Co. THEARC, a nonprofit that is an artistic beacon for the many underserved children and adults who live east of the Anacostia River, officially opened its doors.

Barack Obama was a junior senator from Illinois, and the media was salivating at the idea of him making a run for the White House. The fabric of our Washington lives was being changed, shaped, and beautified.

This dynamic city is defined by its ability to evolve and thrive in all its beauty and contrasts. It’s urban and suburban, and local and international. It’s public and private, and it’s underprivileged and affluent. This city—our city—has evolved in 225 years from a sleepy government town to a vibrant international and cultural capital.

I look forward to taking this year to share with you even more transformations that have taken place over the past 10 years. It’s going to be a great year of celebrating such great revitalization and connectedness in DC. I am thrilled to wave goodbye to the winter blues and say hello to spring in Washington, DC. We may still have some cold and wet days ahead, but on those bright, sunny early spring days, I am looking forward to getting out and enjoying the city. Thanks for reading!

SUZY JACOBS PUBLISH ER Follow me on Twitter at @suzyjacobsdc and visit capitolfile-magazine.com.

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CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

3

// this issue //

ON MY RADAR 1. Spending time walking around the Tidal Basin while enjoying the cherry blossoms in bloom is so special to Washington, DC. Check out the National Cherry Blossom Festival, in full swing from March 20 to April 12.

2. And I am still hoping to get a ticket to the most sought-after event in spring: the White House Easter Egg Roll on April 6.

3. Enjoying fish and chips with a pint of Guinness will be a special treat at The Dubliner on St. Paddy’s Day.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL MORIGI/GETTY (ITZEL); TONY BROWN/IMIJINATION PHOTOGRAPHY (WASHINGTON WINTER SHOW); SHUTTERSTOCK (CHERRY BLOSSOMS, BEER); SAUL LOEB/AFP/GETTY IMAGES (EASTER EGG ROLL)

WHERE WERE YOU 10 YEARS AGO?

Katie CouriC writer Katie Couric is an awardwinning journalist and TV personality, the global anchor for Yahoo News, a well-known cancer advocate, and a New York Times best-selling author. Prior to joining Yahoo in 2013, she coanchored NBC News’ Today (1991–2006), and became the first solo female anchor of a national nightly news broadcast, headlining CBS Evening News with Katie Couric (2006–2011). She penned this issue’s Spirit of Generosity (page 64).

You know it’s spring in DC when... Hello! The cherry blossoms! Favorite DC destination: The Oval Office. Favorite thing about writing this piece: Maybe someone will read it and get screened, and it will save a life. What inspires you? Nature, sans devices.

Cancer researchers. What’s your proudest career moment? Interviewing, with compassion and empathy, two family members after the Columbine massacre.

What’s next for you this spring and beyond? A trip to Hong Kong to support Room to Read, a nonprofit that builds libraries in the developing world.

30 capitolfile-magazine.com

Jonathan Capehart writer Journalist Jonathan Capehart is a member of The Washington Post editorial board and an MSNBC contributor. Mediaite named Capehart among the “Top 9 Rising Stars of Cable News.”

In 1999, his 16-month editorial campaign at the New York Daily News to save Harlem’s famed Apollo Theater earned him and the board the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Writing. His Ben Bradlee remembrance (“Washington Warrior”) is on page 10.

Favorite springtime activity in DC: Running— but especially running on the Mall. Favorite DC destination: The Lincoln Memorial.

What inspires you?

Kindness. Sincerity. Truth.

Determination. Perseverance.

Someone who accomplishes the impossible. What’s your proudest career moment?

Winning a Pulitzer Prize in 1999. All Michael Aronson and I set out to do was try to save a national treasure.

Favorite thing about writing this piece: Confirming that Ben Bradlee was his genuine self 100 percent of the time, no matter who was with him.

// Spring 2015

Jill SiGal writer

GreGG herKen writer

Jill Sigal is vice president of US government policy at Conservation International and also serves as chief of staff to CI’s chairman and CEO, Peter Seligmann. As the assistant secretary of energy for congressional and intergovernmental affairs during the George W. Bush administration, she led the effort to pass the Energy Policy Act of 2005. For this issue, she wrote “Nature in the Eye of the Storm” on page 106.

Gregg Herken is a professor emeritus of history at the University of California Merced and has also taught at Oberlin College, Yale University, and Caltech.

From 1988 to 2003, he was a senior historian and curator as well as chairman of the Department of Space History at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. His most recent book, The Georgetown Set: Friends and Rivals in Cold War Washington, is now available from Knopf. He wrote “Cold War Retreat” (page 8).

Favorite springtime activity in DC: Hiking the Billy Goat Trail with my son.

What inspired you to write this piece? For my entire life, I have loved being surrounded by nature—hiking, rock climbing, biking. In nature, I find a sense of peace that I do not find in the fast-paced world we live in. I was motivated to write this piece to help raise awareness of the importance of nature in our daily lives and to inspire people to get involved and take action to sustain nature for generations to come.

What is your proudest career moment? Serving my country during my tenure as a presidential appointee at the US Department of Energy.

Favorite springtime activity in DC: Bike riding along the Potomac River, between our home in Alexandria and Mount Vernon. What sparked your interest in the subject of your new book? I wanted to write about the history of the Cold War, so I decided to cover the lives and careers of the pundits, publishers, diplomats, and spies who lived in Washington at the time. What inspires you? A mystery and a challenge.

What’s your proudest career moment? Taking former National Security Advisor McGeorge Bundy to lunch at Mory’s, the Yale club.

abby Greenawalt photographer A conditioned East Coaster, born in the mountains of Vermont and raised in the suburbs of Virginia, Abby Greenawalt currently resides in Capitol Hill. Her work consists of lifestyle, portraiture, and editorial, with clients ranging from Tysons Galleria to The Washington Post. She photographed this issue’s Trend Report (page 42).

You know it’s spring in DC when… The birds wake you up earlier than your alarm.

Favorite DC destination: Cava at Barracks Row—great food, great people. What’s your proudest career moment? Each shoot has its own set of challenges—time, environment, subject, etc.—so it’s always an incredible feeling to walk away from a shoot knowing you’ve got it.

Sometimes that’s hard to do, like when riding sidecar at 70 mph with an 80-year-old veteran, or having the soles of your shoes melt to a roof in mid-July. But the feeling’s always the same. How do you spend your time when not photographing for Capitol File? Would you believe me if I said scouting the city for bald heads?! It’s for a body of work I call “Uncapped.”

photography by andrew eccles (couric); Jeff gale (sigal); tJ KirKpatricK (greenawalt)

...without whom this issue would not have been possible

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the list spring 2015

Elisabeth Edelman

Victoria Kilcullen

Jessica Itzel

Muriel Bowser

Allison Kelly

Lisa Stoddard

Jimmy Yeh

Betsy Lavendar

Mark Friese

Shelley Sullivan

Grace Weisser

Lauren Bush Lauren

Michael Blum

Catherine E. Semcer

Kelley Paul

Denis McDonough

Kimberly Skyrme

Janice Dehn

Penny Pritzker

Stephanie Schoettle

Joann Jacobs

Avery Lewis

Dennis Lamme

Jesse Baker

Sevil Altinsoy

Javier Calvo

Heather Tapper

Heather Podesta

Ryan Merkel

Sophie Slesinger

Rima Al-Sabah

Nick Stefanelli

Paul W. Foster

Troy Andrews

Travis J. Holler

Luigi Parasmo

John Edgell

Sabrina Kroeger

Angie Goff

Cathal Armstrong

James Pillar

Angela Lansbury

Elizabeth Townsend

James Gleeson

Vicki Campbell

Christina Tosi

David Rubenstein

Spencer Garrett

Masato Otaka

Ashli Kimenker

Handan Corekci

Jeremy Renner

32  capitolfile-magazine.com

Spring is Fabulous March is Orchid Month Surround yourself with the warmth and fragrance of Hillwood’s greenhouse and enjoy hundreds of orchids blooming in concert.

Now on view Don’t miss the special exhibition, Splendor and Surprise: Elegant Containers, Antique to Modern

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Recently named the only five star restaurant in Washington, DC from Forbes, Plume at The Jefferson, Washington, DC serves as a discreet and elegant backdrop to the culinary artistry of our award-winning culinary team. Among our more than 1,300 wine labels are 50 vintages that Jefferson himself enjoyed in his time, as well as newer wines he might select were he alive today. Choose a cozy nook or a table by our inviting fireplace as you savor classic dishes crafted using traditional techniques and seasonal restaurant menus that are inspired by the harvest from Thomas Jefferson’s kitchen gardens at Monticello.

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STYLE Tastemaker Ralph Auriemma describes the Phineas Cole and Paul Stuart collections as best suited for the “well-traveled, well-appointed gentleman.”

Dapper in the District Paul Stuart comeS to citycenterDc, helmeD by DeSigner Ralph auRiemma. by lauren finney

Paul Stuart is a clothier that has done what very few have managed: stayed under the radar while keeping both its brand integrity and its sales up.

The neo-traditional, storied label opens in CityCenterDC this year, with almost 10,000 square feet of men’s and women’s tailored, classic clothing and accessories.

“At Paul Stuart, we’ve always been about maintaining the highest standard of quality and service and a certain level of sophistication,” says design director Ralph Auriemma, who took over design responsibilities for Paul Stuart last year after having served as a designer for Phineas Cole, a

PhotograPhy by Marc LeMoine

continued on page 36

capitolfile-magazine.com 35

STYLE Tastemaker

Auriemma is inspired by vintage clothing of the 1930s, complemented by modern touches. left: An elegant formal look from the Phineas Cole collection.

—ralph auriemma

slightly hipper offshoot brand.

While there are two brands under the umbrella, Auriemma sees them as two sides of the same coin.

“Phineas Cole and Paul Stuart both reflect the time-honored tradition of handcrafted, classic menswear. Phineas Cole is certainly more aggressively styled, but it is conceived and executed as a collection with a distinctive old-world-meets-moderntimes point of view,” he explains. “We tend to keep Paul Stuart more focused on updated yet classic silhouettes,

36 capitolfile-magazine.com

fabric selection, and myriad other details—all with a decidedly modern twist.”

The inspiration for both the Paul Stuart and Phineas Cole men’s collections bears in mind a well-traveled, well-appointed gentleman—a concept that Auriemma is clear to point out has always been their way, with a resurgence and renewed interest nationwide in gentlemanly pursuits and fashion. “For us, [elegance] never went away,” he muses.

“Our customer has always been focused on a refined,

Anglo-American approach.

We like to say that ‘knowledge is style,’” he continues. “I think the more informed we can help our customer become, the more likely he is to be even more comfortable in expressing his personal style.”

For spring this means, according to Auriemma, “what the gentleman traveler would have worn in the 1930s, in Cap d’Antibes: a lot of blues, suede, linen, and paisley, with a focus on knitwear. Both brands represent a luxe, urbane take on business dressing, with a

distinct Paul Stuart spin of bolder patterns, brighter colors, and textured weaves.”

Auriemma’s inspiration derives from his “extensive vintage clothing archives, period photos, and a lot of fabric research,” which all come together in a contemporary space designed by Charles Sparks + Company, the firm behind the brand’s two Chicago outposts. “I think the general sentiment in DC is that CityCenter is something of a game changer,” he says.

“More to the point, it affords us an opportunity to present

Paul Stuart to a city that understands and embraces the nuances associated with the idea of ‘dressing up.’

“It’s a perfect stepping-off point for Paul Stuart,” he continues. “Paul Stuart customers understand that they can indulge their whimsical side on a daily basis, and Washing tonians know that being welldressed doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.” He adds, “I like the notion of setting free the inner dandy.” 906 I St. NW, 202-754-8866; paulstuart.com CF

photography by marc lemoine (auriemma); courtesy of paul stuart (phineas cole)

“dc is a city that understands and embraces the nuances associated with the idea of ‘dressing up.’”

Auctioneers & Appraisers of America’s Finest Estates & Collections Doyle New York offers fine art in over 25 auctions annually, ranging from Old Master paintings to works by Contemporary artists.

We invite you to contact us for a private auction evaluation. Our Specialists are always available to discuss the sale of a single object or an entire collection.

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STYLE Accessories

Form and Flair cubistic accessories add a black and white dimension to dc style. photography by jeff crawford styling by faye power

Bold Statement Striking blacks and whites bring a confident edge.

M Cabas tote, Balenciaga ($2,075). Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St. NW, 202-342-0202; balenciaga.com. Black and white bracelet ($285), oblong bracelet ($280), and white outer bracelet ($275), Hermès. Fairfax Square at Tysons Corner, 703-506-4546; hermes.com. Agatha bootie, Vince ($450). Nordstrom, Fairfax Square at Tysons Corner, 703-761-1121; nordstrom.com

38 capitolfile-magazine.com

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STYLE Accessories 2

1 Finishing Touches

ParTy Lines

small details such as tassels and hardware add texture.

sleek and simple stripes make neutrals pop.

4

geomeTry Lesson

graPhic/noveL

clean silhouettes balance stark contrasts.

a play on proportion adds visual appeal.

1. Revere belt, Sportmax ($425). Max Mara, Tysons Galleria, 703-556-6962; sportmax.com. Spectator sandal, Paul Andrew ($895). Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Ave., 301-657-9000; saks.com.

Clutch, Boss (price on request). 1054 Palmer Alley NW, 202-408-9845; hugoboss.com. 2. Ester wedge, Santoni ($805). Saks Fifth Avenue, see above. Ava resin minaudière, Serpui ($450). Amano, 7034 Carroll Ave., Takoma Park, 301-270-1140; amanotakoma.com. Lux mini white clutch, Kara Ross ($1,750). Tiny Jewel Box, 1147 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-393-2747; tinyjewelbox.com. 3. Patent pump with gold metal detail, Lanvin ($850). Neiman Marcus, Tysons Galleria, 703-761-1600; lanvin.com. Striped leather handbag, Dolce & Gabbana ($2,495). Saks Fifth Avenue, see above. Sabrina pump, Oscar de la Renta ($950). Neiman Marcus, see above; oscardelarenta.com. 4. Cutout medium clutch, Vince ($495). Saks Fifth Avenue, see above. Chevron pointed pump, Nicholas Kirkwood ($750). Intermix, 3300 M St. NW, 202-298-8080; nicholaskirkwood.com

40  capitolfile-magazine.com

ProP Styling by betim balaman

3

STYLE Trend Report Try-It-Now Trends

Rent the Runway’s Jennifer Fleiss makes her picks for the most popular gala looks.

Renting a gown and return-

having fun mixing it up at

ing it provides the perfect

a gala or black-tie event

low-risk opportunity to

with separates, tea length

experiment with style, says

dresses, bold prints, and

Jennifer Fleiss. “The tradi-

even short, full-skirted

tional black-tie floor-length

dresses. These are all great

gown isn’t going anywhere,”

ways to stand out in a sea

she says, “but women are

of classic black gowns.”

A New Lease on Luxe

As Rent the Runway celebrates its fifth anniversary, the extremely popular dress-rental site launches a brick-andmortar store in georgetown. by lauren finney The concept of renting an outfit for a special occasion is no longer outlandish thanks to Jennifer Fleiss and Jennifer Hyman, cofounders of the popular website Rent the Runway, whose third brick-and-mortar location is now open in Cady’s Alley. While a boutique modeled after a website seems backwards, Fleiss, who is also the company’s head of business development, disagrees. “We kept hearing from customers that they wanted to see the dresses in person,” she says. “It’s been wonderful to see a huge number of customers who weren’t previously comfortable with online shopping discovering our stores.”

The 4,354-square-foot boutique houses 900 dresses and 500 accessories from more than 200 designers such as BCBG, Narciso Rodriguez, and Monique Lhuillier. “We really want to use this to complement our online business,” Fleiss

42 capitolfile-magazine.com

continues. “It’s ideal to introduce new customers to the brand through the store, but not necessary for them to come back every time. Next time, they might use us online.”

The store has a pick-up and drop-off service for those who find that more convenient than fussing with prepaid shipping labels. Customers who book online and pick up their dresses in-store have the option to try on the garment on the spot—and exchange it right then and there if the fit isn’t ideal.

For a $25 fee, dress shoppers can also book an appointment for a 45-minute in-store consultation with a stylist who will help preselect dresses based on the event and save the customer’s preferences for future reference.

“This will be our largest ground-level store,” Fleiss says.

“When we thought about where to open next, DC was a really natural choice—we already have a large customer base in the area that had been asking for a store. We were just responding to customer interest and demand.” This knowledge, combined with awareness of the hefty number of events Washingtonians attend throughout the year, made DC an ideal choice—and Georgetown a priority. “Walking around, Georgetown just felt like the right fit for us,” Fleiss continues. “Cady’s Alley is a charming, beautiful street with a lot of character, and we felt it had a lot of energy and elements that resonate with our brand.”

Rent the Runway Georgetown will host events such as girls’ nights out, and provide in-store services like makeup sessions, manicures, and hemming. “We want to make it a fun place for women to spend time with their friends,” says Fleiss, who adds that there are plenty of complementary accessories for rent and beautifully appointed fitting rooms to foster a partylike atmosphere. “We hope to have exclusive in-store packages in the future for private events and weddings—we’d love to have bridal parties come and try on dresses,” she adds. “We hope that we can help women change the way they think about their closets and provide unprecedented access to designer fashion. We’re trying to make rental a part of a woman’s everyday.” 3336 M St. NW, 202-774-5380; renttherunway.com cf

photography by abby greenawalt

Jennifer Hyman (far left) and Jennifer Fleiss in their newly opened boutique, Rent the Runway Georgetown, which offers designer accessories and dresses for rent or purchase.

Downtown Bethesda’s largest luxury condominium floorplans Now scheduling Sales Center appointments thelaurenresidences.com

301.363.7251

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STYLE Spotlight GEM OF A SCENT

Issa Simple

debut

CAROLINE ISSA DESIGNS A NEW SPRING COLLECTION FOR NORDSTROM. Nordstrom has teamed up with Caroline Issa, the fashion director of Tank magazine and an international street-style favorite, to bring shoppers a selection of classic ready-towear spring styles. The collection features 25 accessible yet luxurious pieces, from tailored jackets and trousers to an array of foundation pieces, all designed by Issa. The Nordstrom Signature x Caroline Issa collection hits stores this spring, and new pieces will be added each season. Prices range from $225–$2,995. Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, 1400 S. Hayes St., Arlington, 703-415-1121; nordstrom.com

// need it now //

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Known for its fine jewels and alluring gemstone collections, Bulgari now has another line to add to its repertoire: Le Gemme, the brand’s first fragrance collection.

Each of the six scents— Calaluna, Noorah, Amarena, Ashlemah, Lilaia, and Maravilla—is inspired by a different gem that can be found in Bulgari’s fine jewelry offerings, including moonstone, turquoise, tourmaline, amethyst, peridot, and citrine.

Shoppers can welcome the new spring season with Lilaia, whose notes of bitter orange and yerba mate leaves are inspired by the peridot’s light green color and nature’s renewal. The Collection at Chevy Chase, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 301-986-8610; bulgari.com

Bulgari’s Lilaia fragrance ($155 for 30ml, $310 for 100ml).

CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

1

THE CLOSET CONCIERGE

With the Neiman Marcus Closet at The St. Regis, guests now have the chance to browse the latest fashions in the privacy of their hotel suites. Before a stay, they answer a questionnaire, and a stylist handpicks items to be delivered straight to their hotel rooms, where the clothes can be purchased. 923 16th St. NW, 202-638-2626; stregiswashingtondc.com

2

BENVENUTO, FERRAGAMO!

The newest Salvatore Ferragamo store in the Mid-Atlantic region is a luxury space at CityCenterDC. Complete with crème Vendome ceramic tile and a custom ceiling sculpture

by Ross Lovegrove, the boutique will offer both the men’s and women’s collections, plus a full array of accessories, including two exclusive Fiamma bags (PICTURED; $2,100) in celebration of the new location.

CityCenterDC, 1001 H St. NW, Ste. 206, 202-2896610; ferragamo.com

ARCHITECTURAL CUFFS add a gilt finish to spring ensembles.

Alexis Bittar ($295). Neiman Aurélie Bidermann ($735).

Lanvin ($984). Neiman Marcus, Tysons Galleria, Barneys New York, 3040 M. St. Marcus, Tysons Galleria, 703-761-1600; alexisbittar.com NW, 202-350-5832; barneys.com 703-761-1600; lanvin.com

44

// ROOM FOR LUXURY //

Swarovski ($599).

50 Massachusetts Ave. NE, 202-898-6349; swarovski.com

Maiyet ($950). Barneys New Hervé Van der Straeten ($627).

York, 3040 M. St. NW, Neiman Marcus, Tysons Galleria, 202-350-5832; barneys.com 703-761-1600; neimanmarcus.com

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ST. REGIS WASHINGTON DC (NEIMAN MARCUS CLOSET); NORDSTROM (ISSA)

fragrance

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Style time Honored

Chrono Cool

Long the domain of men, chronograph watches are making strong inroads with women who Love an active Life and Look. by roberta naas photography by jeff crawford

For more watch features and expanded coverage, go to capitolfile-magazine.com/watches.

46 capitolfile-magazine.com

from left:

From Alor watches, this Forte Chronograph ($2,495) is crafted in stainless steel with a mother-of-pearl dial and sapphire crystal. It is set with 1.04 carats of diamonds and features a steel cascade bracelet. It is water-resistant to 165 feet.

Chas Schwartz & Son, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-363-5432; alor.com Omega’s Speedmaster Chronograph watch ($5,100) is crafted in stainless steel with a white tachymeter bezel to measure speed. The 38mm chronograph also offers date indication. Omega

at Tysons Galleria, 2001 International Dr., 571-633-9710; omegawatches.com From Tissot, this PRC 200 Quartz Chronograph watch ($550) is crafted in stainless steel and features a white mother-of-pearl dial. The screw-down back and crown offer water-resistance up to 660 feet. The watch also offers Super-Luminova hands for easy readability, date indication, and tachymeter to measure speed.

Bloomingdale’s Tysons Corner, 8100 Tysons Corner Center, 703-556-4600; tissot.com This Bulova Accu-Swiss Masella ladies’ chronograph ($1,850) is a

quartz-powered Swiss-made watch that offers a calendar function in addition to chronograph and time-telling functions. The watch features 90 diamonds individually hand-set on the case. It is water-resistant to 98 feet. Real Jewelers, Crystal City Shops, 1659 Crystal Sq., Arlington, 703-413-7117; bulovaaccuswiss.com accessories: L’Art Indien des Plaines scarf ($435) and Pliplat clutch ($5,000), Hermès.

Tysons Corner, 703-506-4546; hermes.com. Sunglasses, Emporio Armani ($160).

Sunglass Hut, 3251 M. St., 202-965-1012; sunglasshut.com

styling by terry lewis

With a compelling combination of style, craftsmanship, and functional design, chronographs have surged in popularity, providing split-second timing for the busy lives of Washington women. For work and play, chronographs are coveted not only because they time individual events (while continuing to track hours and minutes), but also because of their sleek appeal. The harmony of a dial complemented by two or three subdials in colorcoordinated designs has an eye-catching cachet all its own. With such great demand for these stylish and functional pieces, watch brands are responding with women’s chronographs in all price ranges. CF

P H I N E A S C O L E . O N LY A T P A U L S T U A R T.

PA U L S T U A R T. C O M Now Open at CityCenterDC 202.754.8866

P H I N E A S C O L E . O N LY A T P A U L S T U A R T.

PA U L S T U A R T. C O M

P H I N E A S C O L E . O N LY A T P A U L S T U A R T.

PA U L S T U A R T. C O M

CULTURE Hottest Ticket

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN WINTER/GETTY IMAGES FOR 102.7 KIIS FM’S WANGO TANGO

Maroon 5’s latest album draws upon electronic dance music, reggae, and the ’80s.

FIFTH TIME’S THE CHARM

MAROON 5’S JAMES VALENTINE SPILLS ON THE BAND’S LATEST CHART TOPPER AND TOUR, AND WHY DC WILL ALWAYS BE A HOME AWAY FROM HOME. BY JULIET IZON The multiplatinum and three-time Grammy Award–winning band Maroon 5 is growing up. “We blinked and we were in our 30s, and we’re still doing this thing,” says lead guitarist James Valentine. “It’s kind of strange.” Strange or not, the band’s success on the pop charts has been phenomenal: 2011’s “Moves Like Jagger” is one of the bestselling singles of all time, moving more than 14 million copies. With

the release of their fifth album, V, the band migrates to new territory, influenced by everything from reggae to electro-pop. In advance of their March 2 show at the Verizon Center, Capitol File sat down with Valentine to discuss the genesis of the band’s latest record, the new elements they’ve injected into their sound, and what sets their DC fans apart from all others.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 52

CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

51

CULtUre hottest ticket

52 capitolfile-magazine.com

Neil Diamond’s world tour takes him to 30 stops this year.

Bright Like a DiamonD With a new album in tow, soft-rock king neil Diamond returns to Washington for his first show in 14 years. by juliet izon When Neil Diamond returns to the Verizon Center on April 4—his frst Washington performance since 2001—concertgoers will be treated not only to classics like “I’m a Believer” and “America” but also to tracks off Melody Road, his frst studio album in six years. “Neil has made a brilliant record, one of the very fnest in his singular body of work,” says Steve Barnett, chairman and CEO of Capitol Music Group. “[His] songs on Melody Road are imbued with the wisdom of a man refecting on life’s experiences while still looking forward to the road ahead of him.” And indeed, at age 74, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer shows no signs of taking his foot off the accelerator: His 2015 world tour encompasses 30 stops, including shows in Mexico, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. April 4 at 8 pm at the Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. For tickets, call 202-397-7328, or visit ticketmaster.com.

DiamonD Times While Neil Diamond’s April concert may not be a true homecoming, there is no doubt that DC has played host to some of the singer’s most memorable professional moments. sweet tribute Diamond wrote “Sweet Caroline”—a classic soft-rock jam that’s bellowed the world over, from baseball stadiums to karaoke bars—for none other than First Daughter Caroline Kennedy in 1969.

command performance Diamond is no stranger to the White House. Over the last three decades, he has performed for Presidents Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Barack Obama.

diamond touch Diamond’s last DC concert came three weeks after 9/11. “In these troubled times, I’m told music has a way of healing,” he said at the time.

“And if that’s the case, then let the healing begin.”

platinum prize In 2011, the then-70year-old singer was fêted at the Kennedy Center Honors, with Raphael Saadiq and Smokey Robinson among those on hand to perform cuts from Diamond’s songbook.

photography by Debra L. rothenberg/getty Images

tell us about creating the new album.

We never really stopped recording after the last record; we kept on collecting songs. And because we were on the road, we were e-mailing a lot of ideas back and forth. It wasn’t a traditional “Oh, let’s camp out in the studio for a year and make a record.” It was a lot more scattered than that. this album has a different sound than your previous releases.

This is a continuation of something we started on Overexposed but really doubled down with this album.

We went deep into this electro-pop sort of territory. So I think that’s different than any of the other records. I think the songs do have that sort of Maroon 5 sound, which you can break down to the funky guitar and, of course, Adam [Levine]’s voice at the center of that. It still has those aspects, although there’s much more of the electronic dance and ’80s elements. how did you decide on V for the title?

It was the fifth record, and [we’re] Maroon 5—it seemed to be a very obvious choice. Five has been my lucky number as well my entire life. I was born on October 5. Of course, I’d like to think V is for Valentine, but the other guys might disagree. [Laughs] what do you love about touring?

I actually really like the routine of being on tour. When you make music for a living, sometimes there’s not the routine you have in most normal jobs, which is a benefit.

But sometimes you crave some sense of normalcy. I get that on tour, because we wake up and we have a show at night and a sound check at a certain time, and someone tells me where to be.

You have played dc many times before.

I love DC. We were able to play the presidential inauguration and some different events at the White House, like the Christmas tree lighting ceremony— which was amazing. But also, as we were coming up, I remember a lot of crazy nights at the 9:30 Club. We played there, like, a million times. I have very fond memories of those days. what makes the dc crowd special?

DC has always been really supportive of us. Even back in the early days, the 9:30 Club was one of our favorite places to play because there was a real warmth to the crowd. It wasn’t our hometown, but it felt like one of those hometown stops when we started playing there. We really appreciate those people who came out early and supported us back when there wasn’t a lot going on for us. We’ll always love them. and now you’re playing the Verizon center!

We’ll be going about our normal day backstage at the venue and a lot of times it doesn’t even hit me until that moment right when the lights go down and the crowd goes insane. Then you look out and you’re like, “Oh yeah, this is weird.” And we do it every night, and it’s awesome. That’s not supposed to happen, so we feel very blessed. March 2 at 7:30 pm at the Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. For tickets, call 202-397-7328, or visit ticketmaster.com. cf

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culture Art Full

Multiple exposure

For the First time in history, the PhilliPs ColleCtion exhibits Man Ray’s ShakeSpearean equationS Alongside the 3-d mAthemAtiCAl models thAt insPired them. by kristin guiter

A pioneer of experimental photographic techniques, a celebrated fashion photographer, a formidable Dadaist and Surrealist—there are any number of reasons Man Ray is considered one of the 20th century’s seminal artists. But a groundbreaking exhibition at the Phillips Collection, which opened in early February, reminds us that the artist himself considered his greatest achievement to be Shakespearean Equations, an intriguing series of 23 paintings where art, science, and Elizabethan drama collide.

Entitled “Man Ray—Human Equations: A Journey from Mathematics to Shakespeare,” the exhibition presents the artist’s unprecedented project that

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spans disciplines, visual mediums, and even centuries.

Ray’s paintings, which he made while working in Hollywood in the 1940s, drew inspiration from the photographs of mathematical models that he took in Paris the previous decade. He also named each painting after a Shakespeare play. Featuring 125 pieces, the exhibition puts the original 3-D models—on loan from the Institut Henri Poincaré in Paris—alongside Ray’s photographs and paintings for the first time in history.

“In exhibitions over the years, including major Man Ray retrospectives, there have been one or maybe two of the Shakespearean Equations paintings included,” says Wendy Grossman, exhibition cocurator. “But this is the only exhibition ever that has brought the series together with the photographs and actual models.”

Given the project’s multidisciplinary nature, the Phillips and organizing partners at The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, assembled a cast of experts, from mathematicians to Shakespearean scholars, at the Folger Theatre to consult on the exhibition. The show is organized in acts, comparing Ray’s complex process to a play. Act IV features works by the artist not included in Shakespearean Equations that nonetheless relate back to the exhibition’s themes.

Parallel to Ray’s practice of reframing objects through his work, the exhibition will redefine our own understanding of him, Grossman says. “It will be a surprise for people who know Man Ray well or even for people who know virtually nothing about him,” she says.

Visitors will discover the art of math or, rather, the math of art, Grossman says. “You’ll see that these were mathematicians using three-dimensional modeling to work out problems. It’s ironic that the models are then used as modern art forms to create abstract art, taking the idea from conceptual to literal back to conceptual again.” Through May 10, 1600 21st St. NW, 202-387-2151; phillipscollection.org CF

photography Courtesy of fondazione MarConi, Milan, © Man ray trust/artists rights soCiety (ars), ny/adagp, paris 2015 (Merry Wives); elie posner (Model)

Man Ray based his painting The Merry Wives of Windsor (left; 1948) on a plaster object (below) visualizing the derivative of a complex mathematical function.

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culture spotlight

In Bloom

root for the home team

Courtroom Drama

profile

Edward GEro makes a case for Justice scalia in a new play at arena stage.

by Oussama Zahr

What surprised Edward Gero most in preparing for his role as Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia in John Strand’s new play, The Originalist, which opens March 6 at Arena Stage, is how much they have in common. “We are both Italian American, Roman Catholic, and born in New Jersey,” notes the actor. “In fact, his mother’s family and my father’s family come from the same part of Italy—the province of Avellino.”

Ethnogeographic coincidences aside, Gero has spent the better part of a year engaged in an intensive role study to better understand the polarizing jurist with the lively bench manner, whose strict interpretations of the Constitution—a philosophy known as originalism—have made him the subject of admiration as well as ridicule. “I think I have noticed some Scalia-isms,” says Gero of the time he has spent observing the justice in the courtroom and in hour upon hour of video. “He has some terrifically specific hand gestures, facial expressions, an infectious laugh, and a great gait. He has a huge capacity to concentrate and listen acutely.”

Gero’s prep work helped him move beyond the preconceived notions—“molded by so much media spin”—he brought to the part. “Actors have to love the characters they play, even if they do things or hold opinions that the actor never would—like Rothko, Nixon, Iago, or Scrooge,” he says. “I have come to a richer understanding and appreciation of the man.” March 6–April 26, 1101 Sixth St. SW, 202-554-9066; arenastage.org cf

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After clinching the National League East title last year for the second time in three seasons, the Washington Nationals’ postseason campaign was cut short by the San Francisco Giants—the wild-card team that went on to win the World Series. This season, with a little #Natitude and all the key players intact— Denard Span, Gio Gonzalez, Bryce Harper, Ryan Zimmermann, Ian Desmond, Jordan Zimmermann, and Jayson Werth—the Nationals are poised for a World Series run. The home games begin on April 6 against the New York Mets. washington. nationals.mlb.com

The National Cherry Blossom Festival returns March 20 through April 12 to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of Japan’s donation of cherry blossom trees to the capital. Celebrating nature with this year’s theme, “Our Natural World,” the 2015 festival features fve weeks of new and signature events. The festival offcially begins with an opening ceremony on March 21 at Warner Theatre, followed by familyfriendly workshops at the National Building Museum.

The scene at the Washington Monument bursts with soaring colors for the Blossom Kite Festival (March 28), and the Fireworks Festival promises to go off with a bang (April 4). The nationally syndicated parade (April 11, from 10 am until noon) features third-year hosts and WUSA 9 news anchors Andrea Roane and Mike Hydeck. The 54th annual Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival (April 12) will be presented by The Japan-America Society of Washington, DC. New this year, Anacostia Park plays host to the Anacostia River Festival (April 12), offering outdoor activities, including canoeing, kayaking, bike riding, and nature walks. The six-mile National Greenscape Corridor Bike Tour (April 18) will highlight the US National Arboretum, the National Mall, and Arlington National Cemetery.

Although the National Park Service says that predicting the actual day the trees will bloom is nearly impossible, it offers this tip: The blooms usually reach their peak on April 4. March 20–April 12, 877-4425666; nationalcherryblossomfestival.org

above:

National Park, located near the Anacostia River, will host the Nationals’ season opener on April 6.

big-screen thrills The DisTricT’s favoriTe Drive-in is back. after a long winter, Union Market will transform its lot into a classic cinematic experience. Guests can pay a fee to enjoy the movie of the week from the comfort of their own cars or attend for free as pedestrians—bYo blanket. before the show, the Market is open for dinner and drinks. During the movie, guests can purchase nonalcoholic beverages and snacks, delivered on skates by the Dc rollergirls.

The flms roll at 8 pm on fridays, and the season is expected to kick off in March. unionmarketdc.com

photography by tony powell (gero); rob carr/getty images (national park); steve piacente (cherry blossoms)

opening day

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PEOPLE View from the Top Dana Brunetti describes DC as “the center of the world in a lot of ways—what is happening here is affecting the rest of the world.”

BEING BRUNETTI

VIRGINIA NATIVE DANA BRUNETTI IS THE FORCE BEHIND TWO OF YOUR GUILTY PLEASURES—HOUSE OF CARDS AND THE FIFTY SHADES OF GREY MOVIE.

BY ELIZABETH E. THORP

Dana Brunetti, longtime business partner of Kevin Spacey, president of Trigger Street Productions, and producer of multiple award-winning movies, including Captain Phillips and The Social Network, is also a producer of the acclaimed political thriller House of Cards. He has been credited for orchestrating the megadeal with Netflix and providing a prestige title to anchor its original programming. The Emmy-winning show’s third season premieres on February 27—no doubt the majority of the DC area will be bingewatching that weekend—and Brunetti’s most recent project, the highly anticipated film Fifty Shades of Grey, was released on February 13. Capitol File caught up with Brunetti to talk about his career, Frank Underwood, streaming content, and hitching a ride on Air Force One. How does someone from Covington, Virginia, a paper mill town, end up a Hollywood bigwig?

I ended up going into the Coast Guard, which took me out of Covington and put me on Long Island. It’s funny, movies have definitely influenced my life…. I went into the Coast Guard because of Top Gun. After my service, I went to New York. I always liked Wall Street, so I got my Series 7 and 63 [stockbroker licenses]. Ultimately, rather than working in a firm on Wall Street, I ended up Wolf of Wall Street. [Laughs] Somewhere in there, you met Kevin Spacey through a mutual friend, and he asked you to go with him to London to be his assistant while he did a play, but at first you said no.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY AARON SMITH

CONTINUED ON PAGE 60

CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

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PEOPLE View from the Top Dana Brunetti with Fifty Shades star Jamie Dornan.

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President Clinton talks with Kevin Spacey’s mother on Air Force One while Brunetti (right) and Spacey watch. above: Figurines and past scripts that Brunetti keeps in his office.

destroy them in how they create and distribute content. It’s already happened to True Detective. It’s already destroyed the model of “we do pilots only.” let’s talk about Fifty Shades. did you specifically pick an unknown actress in dakota Johnson?

We went for the cast we thought would have the best chemistry and would best fill the parts. We didn’t need a name because the brand is already there; it’s a star-making vehicle. We had that luxury. you’re in Baltimore a lot. What are your thoughts on Washington?

You can almost feel the power in Washington. It’s like the center of the world in a lot of ways. What is happening there is affecting the rest of the world. I get that feeling and that sense when I’m there. you flew on air force one with President Clinton in 1999.

We were backstage at an event in Newark—it’s me, Kevin, President Clinton, and the president’s assistant. And the president says to Kevin, “You coming to the dinner afterward?” and Kevin looks at me and asks, “Is there a dinner afterward?” The president’s assistant leans in and says, “Mr. President,

there’s no dinner afterward; we’re flying back to Washington.” And [Clinton] says, “Well hell, fly back to DC with me.” souvenirs?

I took tons of M&Ms and napkins—basically everything that was lying around that had Air Force One written on it. CF

Production Values DC has made its mark in more ways than one on House of Cards producer Dana Brunetti.

Cultural CurrenCy:

dining destination:

“You constantly see things around DC that you grew up [with]. Things you see on the backs of coins—[in DC] the real thing is right there.”

“I go to Pinea and POV [at the W Hotel] when I’m in DC, because you can’t have a better backdrop for drinks with friends.”

family outing:

“I love taking my daughter to the National Aquarium in Baltimore.”

photography by aaron smith (figurines, scripts); courtesy of dana brunetti (dornan, clinton)

I thought, I don’t want to be somebody’s assistant.

But then I thought it would be cool to go to London and hang out and experience that world. I asked my company for a leave of absence, and they said no. A week or two later I saw my supervisor in his office. It was seven o’clock at night, the rest of the place was dark, and he was stressing over our numbers. He commuted every day into the city from New Jersey, and at the time he was 40 years old. To me, that was ancient—I’m 41 now, by the way. I just remember looking at him, going, I don’t want to be that guy. So I called Kevin and said, “Let’s do it.” so london changed everything.

Yes. After a year in London, we went to LA and shot American Beauty. That was the best learning experience—a small production ($15 million); first-time filmmaker, because Sam Mendes had never directed a film; first-time screenwriter, with Alan Ball. I observed that entire process, all the way to the Academy Awards. Kevin winning was quite a ride.

We joke about it. I went as his guest that year to the Academy Awards, and then 10 years later he came as my guest for Social Network. We came full circle.

How did House of Cards start?

When I was doing Social Network, David Fincher approached me and asked if Kevin would consider doing television. I’d been pushing Kevin toward TV, much to the annoyance of his management: “Movie stars don’t do television.” But some of the best content is on television: The Sopranos, The Wire, and all the great shows we’re seeing now. Those are the types of stories that actors like Kevin can dive into and chew on, because television is always evolving and you have a lot of different arcs, story lines, and character development—it doesn’t need to be tied up in a nice little bow at the end of two hours. you’ve said that netflix and other sites are going to destroy the networks.

Yeah, but I always get misquoted on that. They are going to destroy the networks as we know them. The networks are still going to be around, but it’s going to

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PEOPLE Spirit of Generosity Katie Couric, Yahoo global news anchor, says, “I never expected to be the poster child for the fight against colon cancer.”

Standing Up to Cancer After decades on TV, I’m used to people approaching me in public places.

Sometimes they compliment me on an interview, congratulate me on my recent nuptials, or ask if Matt Lauer is really nice (I always say yes, because he is). But the most welcome comment I get from strangers isn’t, “You look much better in person,” but, “I got a colonoscopy because of you and it saved my life!”

I never expected to be the poster child for the fight against colon cancer. But sometimes you find your calling, and sometimes your calling finds you.

Mine began almost 18 years ago. I can recall every minute of that April day: I was trying on a few outfits in my Today show dressing room when our daughters’ nanny called and said my husband, Jay, was doubled over in pain. Suddenly, a lighthearted moment became full of confusion and deep concern.

By that evening, Jay was having a bowel resection. He was completely obstructed by a tumor described as the size of an orange. (Why fruit is the go-to analogy to convey tumor size is beyond me.)

A day later, our doctor took me into one of those small rooms for family members at the end of the hospital corridor and told me that the cancer had spread and was all over Jay’s liver. The prognosis, he said, was bleak. I felt like a zombie, trying desperately to digest the notion that my wonderful husband— and the loving father of our two girls—was in a terrible situation and the life I had anticipated for our family seemed to be evaporating before my eyes.

64 capitolfile-magazine.com

Jay was unbelievably brave. He was and remains my hero for the way he fought, with grace and grit, and for the way he lived until the cold January morning, nine months after his diagnosis, when I heard a glass crash on the bathroom floor and ran to find him. I wonder if Jay left his body and saw me cradling his head.

Cancer is unsparing. Over the course of the next three years, we lost Jay’s mom, Carol, to ovarian cancer, and my sister, Emily, to pancreatic cancer. The Monahan/Couric clan suddenly personified the terrifying statistic that one in two men and one in three women in this country will be diagnosed with cancer.

After Jay’s death, I threw myself into advocacy work. The good news about colon cancer is it can be detected early and literally nipped in the bud (or butt!) before it spreads or a polyp even turns cancerous.

Urging people to get screened became my personal mission, and scores of celebrities and the Entertainment Industry Foundation also embraced the cause. My colonoscopy was televised, and Al Roker gamely let our Today show crew film his procedure. Robin Williams’s memorable colonoscopy-themed comedy routine got people talking. Morgan Freeman, Meryl Streep, and many others did PSAs, hammering home the message that screening for colorectal cancer saves lives.

There has been progress, but it’s uneven. A 30 percent decline in colon cancer cases is encouraging, but so many people who should be getting screened aren’t.

The well-to-do and/or well educated largely get tested, while the medically

photography by andrew eccles

To increase awareness for colon cancer monTh in march, atie CouriC Talks abouT why finding a cure for The disease, as well as oTher cancers, has become her life’s work.

underserved and the uninsured often do not.

Through an initiative dubbed “80 x 18,” a coalition is trying to close that gap. The goal is to substantially increase the number of all age-appropriate adults being screened—raising it to 80 percent—by 2018.

That would be huge and save countless lives.

After years of focusing on colons, I expanded my work to include all cancers. Eight other Type-A women and I cofounded Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), with the typically intensely competitive TV networks as full-on collaborators. Our goal? To fund research and move science forward. The broadcast and cable networks have been steadfast allies, donating airtime for a biennial fundraising special across 44 networks and cable platforms. But it’s also caught on at the grassroots level. There’s a Scrabble tournament in North Carolina, a Dancing with the Stars event featuring teachers in New York State, and 24-year-old Garth Watson has run not cross country, but across the country to raise money for SU2C. With support from companies, foundations, and organizations like Major League Baseball, this movement has brought in hundreds of millions of dollars for cancer research.

Today, there are 14 “Dream Teams” with 750 members at over 100 institutions. They are collaborating and working on myriad cancers. More than 140 clinical trials are taking place, leading to a new FDAapproved therapy for pancreatic cancer, and an especially promising breast cancer treatment is being

fast-tracked by the FDA. These are two of the exciting developments coming from our Dream Teams. I can’t wait to see more coming from their labs.

This work has given my life real purpose, and I’m often reminded how important it is. A few months ago, a young woman approached me at a hair salon.

Her name was Andrea, and as she spoke, I saw my life flash before my eyes as I looked into hers. Her husband, Jim, had just been diagnosed with a large tumor in his colon. A CAT scan showed suspicious nodules in his lymph nodes and lungs. They had two young children. She was terrified, saying, “There must be a reason I’ve run into you today.”

I was able to refer her to the director of The Jay Monahan Center for Gastrointestinal Health at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, a facility—named for my late husband—that provides compassionate, comprehensive care. Jim had surgery, and is almost through his chemo. I was thrilled to get an e-mail from Andrea recently, telling me the doctors are confident he will be cancer-free at the end of his treatment.

Helping usher in new therapies by supporting science is critically important. But being there for one person when his or her world is falling apart and knowing, as Robert Frost wrote, “that has made all the difference,” is extraordinarily gratifying. That, to me, is the ultimate way to honor Jay and share the benefits of my hard-earned education in all things cancer. standup2cancer.org CF

“SometimeS you find your calling, and SometimeS your calling findS you.”

—katie couric

Charity register Opportunities to give.

2015 Greater WashinGton reGion heart Ball Support the American Heart Association’s Greater Washington Region Chapter by attending this annual black-tie celebration. Speaking will be Chelsea Clinton, vice chair of the Clinton Foundation, which works to improve global and domestic health, among other missions.

When: February 28 at 6:30 pm Where: Mandarin Oriental Hotel, 1330 Maryland Ave. SW Contact: dcheartball.ahaevents.org

2015 annual sprinG Gala: ireland leGendary & Contemporary Join more than 1,000 guests from all across the capital to support the Prevent Cancer Foundation at its annual spring gala. Honorary patron Anne Anderson, the Irish ambassador to the US, will be in attendance at this year’s event. Last year’s gala raised more than $1.7 million.

When: March 6 Where: National Building Museum, 401 F St. NW Contact: 703-519-2103; preventcancer.org

Grin Gala Celebrate Operation Smile’s 32nd anniversary at its eighth annual Grin Gala. Funds raised from the event will further Operation Smile’s mission to provide comprehensive care, education, and life-changing surgical interventions by medical volunteers around the world.

When: April 17 at 6 pm Where: US Chamber of Commerce, 1615 H St. NW Contact: operationsmile.org

a VintaGe affair Oenophiles and foodies, make your way to the 18th annual A Vintage Affair—an epicurean event featuring a wine-paired dinner and live and silent auctions offering rare wines, exotic trips, and dining experiences.

Proceeds beneft The Board of Visitors’ annual Grants and Major Gifts Program in support of the Children’s National Medical Center.

photography by abC/Kevin Mazur

When: April 18 Where: Embassy of France, 4101 Reservoir Road NW Contact: 301-704-2254; boardofvisitors.com/a-vintage-affair

Katie Couric with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Jon Hamm.

Couric and singer Charlie Wilson at a fundraiser for the cause.

capitolfile-magazine.com 65

EVENTS INTERNATIONAL

TEL: 301.987.0095

www.syzygyevents.com

2 - A N D 3 - B E D RO O M RE S I D E N C E S D E S I G N E D B Y D E B O RA H B E RK E PA RT N E R S

C O N C I E RG E A N D A M E N I T Y S E RV I C E S B Y A B I G A I L M I C H A E L S C O N C I E RG E

3 . 3 AC RE S O F L U S H LY- L AN D S CAP E D G RO U N D S B Y M I C H A E L V E RGA S O N L AN D S CAP E ARC H I T E C T S We are pledged to the letter and spirit of us policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the nation. We encourage and support an affirmative advertising and marketing program in which there are no barriers to obtaining housing because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or sources of income.

invited

the blacklist bash

photography by paul Morigi/getty iMages

Megan Boone celeBrates holidays in the district.

Capitol File celebrated its holiday issue with cover star Megan Boone, aka Elizabeth Keen from NBC’s The Blacklist, on Saturday, December 13, at The Woodley, a luxury apartment property in the upper northwest neighborhood of Woodley Park. Guests mixed and mingled while enjoying Grey Goose cocktails and gourmet treats from SPAGnVOLA Chocolatier at the fête.

Editor-in-chief Elizabeth Thorp showcased her baking prowess by providing salted caramel pudding—à la Boone’s personal recipe, of course. The VIP crowd included The White House’s Carlos Elizondo and Tonya Williams, Fox News’ Ed Henry and his wife, Shirley, and The Atlantic’s Steve Clemons.

ConTinued on pAge 70

Megan Boone in a vintage Gucci by Tom Ford suit with hair and makeup styling by Karma by Erwin Gomez.

capitolfile-magazine.com 69

INVITED

Carl Ray with Susanna and Jack Quinn

Julie and Lauren Shanklin

Guests toasted with Grey Goose cocktails.

Ana Rangappa, Maria Trabocchi, and Tonya Williams

SPAGnVOLA chocolates.

Ed Henry with Joe and Giovanna Lockhart

Laura and Justin Brooks

Deborah F. Rutter and Adrienne Arsht

Meryl Streep

Trudie Styler and Sting

Patricia McBride and Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux Rep. Nancy Pelosi and Paul Pelosi

KENNEDY CENTER HONORS ON DECEMBER 7, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosted its 37th annual Honors Gala Supper Dance honoring singer Al Green, actor and filmmaker Tom Hanks, ballerina Patricia McBride, singersongwriter Sting, and comedian Lily Tomlin.

70 CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

Seated with President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, the 2014 honorees accepted the gratitude and thanks of their peers through performances and tributes. The 2014 Kennedy Center Honors Gala concluded with a supper dance in the Grand Foyer.

Lisa Meyers, Stephen Colbert, and Kris Kristofferson

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICH KESSLER (CARE FOR KIDS); JOY ASICO (TURKISH AIRLINES DINNER). THIS PAGE: PHOTOGAPHY BY PAUL MORIGI/ GETTY IMAGES (HOLIDAY PARTY); MARGOT SCHULMAN AND YASSINE EL MANSOURI (KENNEDY CENTER HONORS)

Ashley Taylor Bronczek and Hilary Phelps

CARE FOR KIDS

Rachel Bedell and Jen Rossman

CAPITOL FILE AND America Eats Tavern hosted a celebratory luncheon for the Board of Visitors’ Care for Kids chairs, partners, and sponsors on December 5. The luncheon commemorated the success of the 2014 Care for Kids shopping program, cochaired by Anne Polk and Kim Trundle.

Susan Cannaday, Mary Amons, and Heather Guay

Ann Goettman, Paul Foster, and Vicki Campbell

Attendees sat in the private dining room complete with holiday flair.

Grace Weisser, Duane Giglia, Marcus Jaffey, Kim Trundle, and Anne Polk

Guests mingled before sitting down to lunch.

Travel writers toast during the festive dinner.

Aaron Wodin-Schwartz, Michael Kaplan, and Claudine Halabi

Phoebe Gavin and Kim-Marie Evans

WHITE HOUSE TRAVEL SUMMIT

Fran Holuba and Samantha Brown

THE NATIONAL SECURITY COUNCIL hosted the White House Travel Blogger Summit on December 9 with 130 of the most influential digital media outlets and travel bloggers. The summit, which focused on study abroad and global citizenship, closed out with a festive Turkish Airlines dinner reception at the Newseum with remarks by Travel Channel personalities Don Wildman and Samantha Brown, Capitol File’s Elizabeth Thorp, and Turkish Airlines’ Handan Corekci.

Lori Stratford and Alison Tatham

Handan Corekci of Turkish Airlines

Don Wildman

CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

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INVITED

WHERE LUXURY & EXCLUSIVITY ARE THE ESSENCE

Omar Miller, Dr. Kurt Newman, and Adrian Fenty Gary Williams and Ray Mancini

Adrian Castaneda

Mark Graff and Tommy Rios

FIGHT NIGHT VIPS

ON THE EVE of Fight Night

Monica Jones, a Master Paul Mitchell Professional Hairstylist and her team offer Microlink Hair Extensions, Keratin Treatments, Advanced Skincare, Makeup and HairColor Services. All are performed in a personal lounge with complete privacy guaranteed.

2014, one of DC’s biggest charitable events, Under Armour executive Kevin Plank invited an intimate crowd of donors and supporters to the W Hotel rooftop for a VIP reception. In attendance were NFL legend Dan Marino, actor Omar Miller, former District Mayor Adrian Fenty, and event cochair Raul Fernandez, who enjoyed hand-rolled cigars and festive cocktails.

Dan Marino and Steve Mosko

RESIDENTIAL & ON SITE SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST 703.554.9472 | luxethestudio@gmail.com styleseat.com/monicajones | facebook.com/luxestudio Photo: Greg Powers

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY BROWN/IMIJINATION PHOTOGRAPHY (FIGHT NIGHT). OPPOSITE PAGE: TONY BROWN/IMIJINATION PHOTOGRAPHY (BUTTERFLY BASH)

Mark Ein and Raul Fernandez

The live band had guests dancing into the night.

Patrick Chauvin and Brett Baier

BUTTERFLY BASH

WASHINGTON NONPROFIT FAIR CHANCE celebrated

the 2014 Butterfly Bash in November at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. The annual fundraiser honored local leaders Carrie and David Marriott for their commitment to helping children in Washington. Guests were treated to an evening of cocktails and dancing with celebrity emcee and former Redskins tight end Chris Cooley.

Patrick McGlohn and Jessica Jennings

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taste this Issue: Going Green The oysters Rockefeller at Elizabeth’s Gone Raw pairs spinach and mushrooms with coconut, Pernod, and shallots.

Raw PoweR

BREAST CANCER SURVIVOR ELIZABETH PETTY SHARES HER PASSION FOR HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS FOOD EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT AT VEGAN FAVORITE elizabeth’s gone raw.

photography by jonathan timmes

by nevin martell

Sometimes life’s greatest obstacles turn into the most rewarding experiences. In the spring of 2009, Elizabeth Petty, owner of The Catering Company of Washington, was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I was blindsided,” she says. “My first reaction was this amazing fear.”

After undergoing a bilateral mastectomy and her first chemotherapy treatment, she came across a copy of Kris Carr’s crazy Sexy cancer tips. “I sat down in the store for a couple of hours and read the whole book,” says Petty.

Inspired by the cancer survivor’s journey and advice, Petty excised sugar, gluten, and meat from her diet. She began drinking large amounts of green juices and eating only raw foods. (Depending on whom you ask, raw cuisine’s ingredients should not be exposed to temperatures above 104 or 118 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that all their enzymes remain intact.) Six months later, she felt transformed, full of energy. During a restorative session at Hippocrates Health Institute, a nutritional and wellness center in West Palm Beach, she began considering her future. “I was at a pivotal point,” she says. “Do I go back and continue to serve meat, knowing what it can potentially do to people? Then I realized I didn’t continued on page 76

capitolfile-magazine.com 75

tastE shaking it up the Elizabeth’s gone Raw philosophy extends to its cocktails.

Beet and apple ravioli, a pasta alternative at Elizabeth’s Gone Raw; the restaurant’s elegant dining room; Elizabeth Petty’s cancer diagnosis has inspired the health-conscious outlook she is now sharing with her guests. bottom right: The Just in Time cocktail features CapRock organic gin, aperol, and fresh pineapple and lime juice.

have to give anything up.”

Petty decided to use her company’s tasting room for a monthly raw vegan dinner, while continuing to offer an omnivorous catering menu.

After nearly half a year of intensive research and extensive taste testing, Elizabeth’s Gone Raw debuted in July 2010. The goal was to create a fine dining experience. “We wanted to defy the stereotypes of raw and vegan cuisine,” says Petty, who had low expectations for her high-minded concept. “I didn’t think anyone would come. Or people would come once and then never come again. I was wrong.”

The dinners were a hit, quickly building a fervent following. Ultimately they became a weekly event on Friday evenings. To take the cuisine to the next level, Sax vet Jonathan Seningen was brought in as executive chef in mid-2012. Before he served

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a single meal, he traveled to raw chef Matthew Kenney’s culinary academy in California for a rigorous training program.

Seningen strives to continually challenge himself, so he crafts a completely new menu every Friday. Many dishes evoke familiar favorites, but their presentation is equal parts creativity and surprise. “Bone marrow” is actually young coconut meat, “ravioli” are formed with razor-thin slices of beets and apples pocketing mashed apples and macadamia nuts, and “risotto” is made with green papaya, morel mushrooms, and a creamy nut sauce. “You get the aroma, the warmth, and the texture,” says Petty of the latter dish. “You wonder why you would eat regular risotto again. Not only does this version taste good, but it’s so good for you.”

Petty sees her weekly dinners as part of a larger

“We Wanted to defy the stereotypes of raW and vegan cuisine. i didn’t think anyone Would come. i Was Wrong.”

—elizabeth petty

movement. “Although I don’t think anything more than a small percentage of the population will be raw vegan, people will be more conscious of what they put in their bodies,” she says. “They may still eat meat, but they will ask questions about how it was raised and where it came from. Even that small amount of change in a society has an enormous impact.”

For her own part, the 55-year-old “raw revolutionary” is feeling fantastic. This May marks the sixth

anniversary of her cancer diagnosis, and there’s no sign of the disease’s return. “Don’t take cancer as a death sentence,” Petty says. “See it as an opportunity to figure out what’s going wrong with you physiologically, emotionally, and spiritually. Cancer is really your body saying, ‘Hey, get things in balance and heal yourself.’” She did it—one bite at a time—and now she wants to give her guests a taste of that cuisine. 1341 L St. NW, 202-347-8040; elizabeths onlstreet.com cf

photography by Jonathan timmes

clockwise from left:

Look at the bottles behind the bar at Elizabeth’s Gone Raw, and one word will pop out again and again: “organic.” Approxi­ mately 25 percent of the liquors fall into this category, as do most of the house­made tonics, bitters, and shrubs. Sommelier and cocktail craftsman Phillip J. Heyser wishes it could be 100 percent. “There are some things you have to have in a bar that they’re just not making organic yet,” he says.

As with the dining menu, you won’t find any refined sugars or dairy products. “You have to look for different ways to do things,” says Heyser, who relies on raw coconut nectar for sweetening and hemp or almond milk to add creaminess. “I’m blazing my own path here,” he adds. “It forces me to be constantly creative.”

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TasTe Cuiscene

The Morel The Merrier Call of the Wild “When the phone rings and the first morel has been found, it’s a buzz,” says Patrick O’Connell, chef and proprietor of the inn at little Washington (Middle and Main Sts., Washington, VA, 540-675-3800; theinnatlittlewashington.com). “It’s like Elvis has come to town.” Depending on the weather—morels require cool, damp mornings and a blast of sunshine in the afternoon—the call usually comes near the end of April.

O’Connell showcases the highly prized ’shrooms, foraged from the surrounding countryside, in a deconstructed lasagna. A wide noodle swaddles sautéed morels in cream sauce, blanched asparagus, and a paper-thin sheet of country ham ($178 and up for the tasting menu; not available à la carte). tarting it Up “Foraged mushrooms have a more true and honest flavor,” says Dwayne Motley, executive chef at nage (1600 Rhode Island Ave. NW, 202-448-8005; nagerestaurant.com). Using morels from the forests of Maryland and Virginia, he creates a savory tart ($15). The celebrated fungi are pan-cooked with garlic scapes and ramp bottoms, then shoehorned into a puff pastry round.

A zigzag of acidic ramp oil, vincotto, and a sunny-side-up quail’s egg complete the springtime special.

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poCketfUl of gold You’ve never had pasta like this. Matt Adler, executive chef at osteria Morini (301 Water St. SE, Ste. 109, 202-484-0660; osteriamorini.com), pockets a single raw yolk inside one giant raviolo ($25). “If you’ve cooked it perfectly, the egg runs out when you cut into it,” he says. The yellow tide mixes with slightly caramelized morels, crispy sweetbreads, and rich veal sauce. “The mushrooms add a deep, earthy richness,” says Adler. “They taste like spring.” the SCent of Spring One afternoon last spring, Kyle Bailey, the executive chef at Birch & Barley (1337 14th St. NW, 202-567-2576; birchandbarley.com), was working in the kitchen when the restaurant’s handyman, John Stark, walked in. Turns out the jack-of-alltrades had a secret skill: foraging.

He’d brought with him six pounds of wild morel mushrooms from the backwoods of West Virginia. “Every season has a smell,” says Bailey.

“When morels show up, you know it’s springtime.” To highlight this seasonal bounty, the local-centric chef sautés the mushrooms with oniony ramps, before adding rabbit sausage and gnocchi ($60 for the five-course tasting menu; not available à la carte). CF

This spring, Washingtonians can enjoy an array of morel-inspired dishes, including (from top) Osteria Morini’s raviolo, The Inn at Little Washington’s mushroom agnolotti, and Birch & Barley’s potato gnocchi.

photography by anthony jackson (raviolo); gordon beall (agnolotti); courtesy of birch & barley (gnocchi)

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taste Cheers!

Organic garden MOjitO courtesy of cuba Libre 11⁄2 oz. Papagayo organic rum 3

⁄4 oz. organic light agave nectar

1

⁄4 oz. organic lime juice

11⁄2 oz. organic carrot juice 6 pieces organic basil 1 splash club soda 1 cucumber wheel Add rum, agave syrup, lime juice, and carrot juice to a cocktail shaker with ice. Tear basil and add it. Shake well six times.

Pour into a glass with ice. Top with a splash of club soda.

Garnish with a cucumber wheel.

Move Over, Bloody Mary WITH THE RISE OF SAVORY, VEGETABLE-BASED COCKTAILS, LOCAL BARTENDERS GET CREATIVE. by kayleigh kulp

The Bloody Mary, the spicy tomato juice-based mainstay of brunches and mornings after, has long appealed to tipplers for the savory characteristics that make it conducive to pairings with bacon, omelets, and pancakes. But new veggie-laden cocktails—think beets, carrots, kale, and celery—are popping up all over the DC area, and they’re enticing enough to add to any meal or to enjoy on their own.

“A great cocktail is composed of a great aroma, a vibrant color, and a complex yet identifiable taste,” says Doug Abedje, a partner in the grilled cheese bar GCDC (1730 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-393-4232; grilledcheesedc.com). “Vegetables inherently add these qualities. There are a variety of ways that the intense flavors of a particular vegetable can be showcased by the right combination of spirits, bitters, syrups, and even garnishes…. It’s not uncommon now to see a bar menu with fennel syrup and carrot juice combined with locally distilled gin and a chef-driven pickled

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garnish.” Not to mention the unique texture that vegetables add due to their fiber.

Take the Gazpacho Tipple at The Fainting Goat (1330 U St. NW, 202-735-0344; faintinggoatdc.com), which combines potato vodka, fino sherry, and gazpacho with a micro-arugula garnish. Last fall, bar manager Ken Curry mixed together puréed roasted butternut squash, Dolin dry and blanc vermouths, tarragon, and Prairie Organic vodka. “The vermouth shares some of the savory elements with squash, so the result is much more approachable than one might think,” Curry explains. “When I come up with an idea for a cocktail that includes a vegetable, it usually starts with something I enjoy eating.”

On the other hand, Cuba Libre (801 Ninth St. NW, Ste. A, 202-408-1600; cubalibrerestaurant.com) dreamed up the Organic Garden Mojito, which blends organic rum, carrot juice, light agave nectar, lime juice, and basil, as a way to “appeal to the health-conscious, organic-eating, and overall adventurous guest,” says general manager Amnon Pick (see recipe , above).

Keep the Beet in Thyme, at Poste Moderne Brasserie (555 Eighth St. NW, 202-783-6060; postebrasserie.com), is a crowd-pleasing mixture of thyme-infused blanco tequila, fresh-roasted beet juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and paprika, which creates an unlikely depth of flavor. “When you’re making a vegetable cocktail, you don’t want to go all savory,” advises James Nelson, former head bartender at Poste. “Beets are naturally sweet, which makes it easier to drink. The color is also very vibrant.”

While many District bartenders say that clear spirits— such as gin, Milagro blanco tequila, and vodka—are the easiest to mix with veggies, Adam Bernbach of 2 Birds 1 Stone (1800 14th St. NW, Lower Level; 2birds1stonedc.com) embraces the brown ones. His Brit Meaw is a mix of “lushly creamy,” house-made carrot soda and rye whiskey, which has harmonious vanilla, oak, and cinnamon notes.

Hungry yet? Grab a drink. CF

photography by jonathan timmes

The carrot juice in Cuba Libre’s Organic Garden Mojito lends it a splash of color and added appeal for health-conscious diners.

TASTE Spotlight // SAVE THE DATE //

sips

A TASTING ROOM OF ITS OWN

alfresco

POSTE BRASSERIE OPENS THE GARDEN FOR ITS SIGNATURE “POSTE ROASTS.” Following Poste Brasserie’s recent renovation, new Executive Chef Kyoo Eom, formerly chef de cuisine of 2941 Restaurant, brings his personal entertaining style to the restaurant’s courtyard garden. The menu offers a wide selection of roasts, such as leg of lamb with tzatziki, whole roasted suckling pig, spit-roasted turkey, and bone-in beef ribeye with sauce au poivre. Diners select one roast for the group and then pair it with sides, including sautéed seasonal vegetables, rustic potatoes, and truffle mac and cheese. Chocolate Bundt cake and seasonal cobbler are on offer for dessert. Parties of eight to 10 can enjoy a private family-style dining experience at the exclusive patio garden table from April 15 through October. Prices range from $65 –$95 per person, but the largest roasts (the whole lamb and goat) are only available to parties with a minimum of 12 guests in the inside dining room, which accommodates eight to 14 diners. 555 Eighth St. NW, 202-783-6060; postebrasserie.com

// celebrate //

CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

The Jefferson’s Plume has announced that it will offer a celebratory tasting menu April 10-18 in honor of the birthday of Thomas Jefferson (April 13), “our most gastronomically inclined Founding Father.”

New Executive Chef Ralf Schlegel, in partnership with new sommelier Jennifer Knowles, developed the decadent menu, which includes stingray oyster gratin, American shad with caviar sauce, bison strip loin, morel mushrooms, a Virginia Cabernet Franc reduction, and quince apple pie with almond custard.

1200 16th St. NW, 202-448-2300; jeffersondc.com

2

WINE CLASS IS IN SESSION BCV expands operations on its 100-acre farm with a new tasting room.

ALL MARVIN

On April 2 beloved U-Street watering hole Marvin will host its eighth annual Marvin Gaye Day, celebrating the legendary Motown soul man on what would have been his 76th birthday. Per tradition, Gaye’s family, friends, and fans will gather to

82

A FEAST FIT FOR A PRESIDENT

Eno Wine Bar, where “Enoversity” wine classes are held the first Sunday of every month, offers “Somm Might Say” on March 1, a program that includes a guided blind taste test. 2810 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-295-2826; info@enodc.com

Friends, family, and fans come together for Marvin Gaye Day.

commemorate the life and legacy of the Washington-born, Shaw-raised singer-songwriter with delicious food and great live music on the rooftop deck of the Belgium-inspired American South restaurant. In addition to performances by local artists,

Gaye’s original band, The Marquees, will perform. Proceeds from the day’s event benefit the organization of the Gaye family’s choice, the Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence.

2007 14th St. NW, 202-797-7171; marvindc.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHUTTERSTOCK.COM (WINE GLASSES)

Barbecue in Style

Big Cork Vineyards broke ground with 13 varietals on 100 acres in Pleasant Valley, Maryland, in May 2011, and by 2014, it had caught the attention— and the palates—of local and national wine critics: Last year alone, BCV earned two dozen awards, including the Maryland Governor’s Cup “Best Dessert” for Vidal Ice. This year, growth continues. In January, BCV opened a 4,000-square-foot tasting room, where the staff invites oenophiles to relax, sip, and savor. This spring it will host pairing workshops and winemaking demos.

4236 Main St., Rohrersville, MD, 301-302-8032; bigcorkvineyards.com

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Dress, Boss ($435).

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LIVE FROM WASHINGTON, IT’S SATURDAY NIGHT! CECILY STRONG BRINGS HER SNL SNARK TO THE WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS’ AWARDS DINNER. by elizabeth e. thorp // photography by nigel parry // styling by gregory wein

Y

ou know it’s going to be an entertaining interview when you discover your cover star went to the same summer camp you did in the wild Northwoods of Wisconsin, and you start singing camp songs. All hail, Camp Clearwater! It was that kind of interview I had with Cecily Strong. The comedian is in the midst of her third season as a repertory player on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, where she’s earned rave reviews for her “Weekend Update” character “the girl you wish you hadn’t started a conversation with at a party,” which Rolling Stone declared an “instant classic.” She’s also cohosted “Weekend Update” alongside both Seth Meyers and Colin Jost.

Strong was tapped by the White House Correspondents’ Association to be the featured entertainer at the 2015 dinner, only the fourth female host in its 84-year history, and it’s certainly true that the WHCA dinner— Washington’s equivalent to the Oscars—could use a little estrogen. Strong invited Capitol File into the green room at 30 Rockefeller Plaza overlooking the iconic SNL stage.

Congratulations on landing the WHCA dinner gig—did you have to audition?

I got a call through my dad actually. It’s a very bizarre story. He texted me and said he got a call from an old friend who asked if I would do the White House ‘thing.’ I thought [he meant] they were asking him—that he had been invited to the Correspondents’ Dinner. So I responded, “Great, Dad, very cool!” And he was like, “So do you want to do it?” And then I called him.

“What are you talking about?” We didn’t believe it. Everyone told me: “This can’t be real.”

Fascinating.

I’m sure someone was probably like, “What if we have a woman?” Duh. Are you excited?

A lot of people say no [to hosting the WHCA dinner] because it’s notoriously a very tough room. I was encouraged by a lot of people to say no.

Comedian people. They’re like, “It’s the worst room, you even have to go after the funniest president.” I’m just looking to break even.

Will your family be at the WHCA dinner?

My dad is definitely going to be there. I was told I could have one guaranteed seat at the table, because we have to have our PR there, and the writers whom I hired to help me will be there. It gets filled up pretty fast.

Do you have siblings?

I do, and they would all love to come, I’m sure. I have two older brothers. I have a stepbrother and a stepsister, and a biological brother. My stepbrother worked for Human Rights Watch for a long time, and he got a master’s in journalism at Columbia. So he’s very involved. He was over the moon about this.

I’ve met that person—“the girl you wish you hadn’t started a conversation with at a party”—a million times. Will she emerge at the WHCA dinner?

What was crazy is that so many people had. If I do anything sarcastic that is always sort of my go-to sarcasm.

CAPITOLFILE-MAGAZINE.COM

87

My sixth-grade daughter perked up right away when I told her about our interview and said, “Ask Cecily about Harry Styles.”

[Laughs] Yeah, One Direction was here. They were very nice. They were really excited to do [the skit]. It was cute. But it’s always weird to be around someone like that. What must your life be?

Back to DC. Have you spent much time in Washington?

No. I did my eighth grade trip there. Then my dad and I went one year together, and I’ve done a show there. I’ve done a couple of Second City shows. I was actually there [when] I did a show the night of the [George] Zimmerman verdict. I remember I was with my friend Sam who is African American, and we had a very somber night after our show. Now [Zimmerman] is tied to DC for me, so that’s nice.

Is there anyone who is off-limits at the WHCA dinner?

I have my own limits. I don’t want to be too mean where it really hurts somebody. I’d rather do things we can all laugh [about]. I’d like to be able to make fun of myself as much as anyone else. I don’t want to make fun of the way someone looks—things like that. Children are off-limits. There are definitely people in that room whom I respect and admire a lot.

But you might have to make a quip or two.

I am okay with that.

What are you most looking forward to?

I’m excited to have my little private meeting with the Obamas. So I’ve got that story.

Major private meeting. Do you need me to carry your evening bag?

Before the dinner I think I do a private tour of the White House—all the reasons why I said yes, even though everyone warned me about this terrible move. [Laughs] It’s a great move! We need a female host.

It’s a huge honor. I also love that it came in that weird way. It’s so bizarre. I mean it took us a week to figure out it was real. [My publicist] Lauren’s husband was like, “No, this is a different dinner; I know they’re not asking you, truly.” [Laughs] And Lauren said, “Wow, it is the dinner,” but she was going to say no.

Seth Meyers did a great job. You should pick his brain.

I’m going to pick everyone’s brains! Everyone’s! Seth did an amazing job.

What did you think about Tina Fey and Amy Poehler’s joke about Selma at the Golden Globes? “This is about the tension between blacks and whites, and we had civil rights and now everything is just peachy….” I thought it was a good way to address a tough topic— through sarcasm. Even Oprah was laughing.

I feel like I’m not even the person to address racism or Ferguson. I can mention it, but I wouldn’t feel like that’s my place. I feel fine bringing up anything about women—Bill Cosby, rape, whatever—because I can speak from that place. But I don’t want to be the voice of the Black Lives Matter movement. I don’t think it would be my place. I’m a supporter.

You could do something with “Let’s Move,” because this year is the fifth anniversary of the first lady’s initiative.

Last year we did a skit with the character Augustus Gloop from Willy Wonka—the chubby German kid who gets sucked up the tube. We were talking about his worst enemy: Michelle Obama.

Amazing!

Yeah, I’m going to try to get some workout tips from her.

They do videos. Maybe they’ll shoot one with you.

88 capitolfile-magazine.com

“I have my own lImIts. I don’t want to be too mean where It really hurts somebody. I’d rather do thIngs we can all laugh [about].”

—CeCily Strong Oh, I don’t think they would want to. I’d be the before video.

Are you kidding? They do cute spoof videos for the dinner—they did one with Vice President Biden and Julia Louis-Dreyfus last year.

I did a video in Chicago years ago to be shown at Camp David. I remember [talking] about President Obama’s mom jeans. It was like all my gay friends and me doing all these jokes for Obama. So I have met him a couple of times. I want to see if he remembers me.

He might!

He’s got to, right? “One of the interns you met!”

So tell me about your charity.

I work with this charity I really like—[it’s] where my necklace [is from]. [It’s called] the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. It’s all [about] rescue animals. I got my doggie Lucy, who’s my whole life, from Best Friends. She’s a little street mutt.

Is Best Friends in New York?

Their big sanctuary is in Utah, but they work in New York. She looks like a little black lab. She’s 23 pounds; she’s perfect. And I travel with her because, thank you flight anxiety, now I get to fly with my dog.

Lucy is your service dog.

She truly is my service dog. The first time I flew with her I didn’t take any Xanax or anything, so I was so nervous about watching her. We started to go through turbulence and that’s when I just… I panic so easily. I threw up on myself, but I got away with it. No one saw. I seriously thought the woman next to me had one leg, so I didn’t want to ask her to move.

You’re a very polite nervous flyer. I’m a Xanax flyer, too. My gift to you: There’s this website called Turbulence Forecast and you can look up the route you’re flying and maximum turbulence potential.

Yes. You can decide ahead of time: I am going to take a Xanax for this flight.

I will definitely be using this [website]. I always think about millionaires and people who take private planes all the time. I don’t want to ever.

Really? I feel like when you’re a billionaire you can tell your pilot, “I don’t want to go anywhere near those clouds—divert 200 miles.”

Alright, you sold me again.

So now you need to get a private plane.

Yes, I’ll get on that as soon as I finish my bit for the White House Correspondents’ awards! cf

Dress, Jason Wu ($1,395).

Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Ave., 301-657-9000; saks.com. Ceramic oval link bracelet in sterling silver ($775), Chatelaine double-drop earrings with black onyx and hematine in sterling silver ($740), petite pavé ring with black diamonds in sterling silver ($695), and petite pavé ring with black diamonds in sterling silver ($850), David Yurman.

Tysons Galleria, 703-245-3515; davidyurman.com. Heels, Charlotte Olympia ($1,095). charlotteolympia.com beauté: Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder Foundation ($45), The Retoucher Concealer ($35), Filmstar Bronze & Glow ($68), Rock ’N’ Kohl Pencil ($27), Cheek to Chic Blush in First Love ($40), Lip Cheat Lip Liner ($22). bergdorfgoodman.com.

Oribe Grandoise Hair Plumping Mousse ($37), Dry Texturizing Spray ($42), Superfine Hair Spray ($33). Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-966-9700; neimanmarcus.com

Photography by Nigel Parry/CPi Styling by Gregory Wein/abtp.com Hair by Andrew Fitzsimons/ abtp.com using Oribe Makeup by Mari Shten using Charlotte Tilbury Video: Emilie Jackson Shot on location at The Tuscany, 120 E. 39th St., New York, NY, 212-686-1600; www.stgiles.com.

The Tuscany, a St Giles Boutique Hotel, offers 124 completely renewed residential-style guest rooms, elegant suites, and a luxurious 17th floor Penthouse Suite, which features a fully equipped gourmet kitchen and a wraparound outdoor terrace offering stunning views of the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings. The property is centrally located in Midtown Manhattan, near iconic New York landmarks such as Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Fifth Avenue retail district.

this page: Suede trench coat ($4,300) and carré ($230), Gucci.

The Collection at Chevy Chase, 301-986-8902; gucci.com.

Ring, model’s own.

opposite page: Silk coat, Dior ($6,600). The Collection at Chevy Chase, 301-986-8715; dior.com.

Clarice top ($1,095) and Siska skirt ($2,170), Dries Van Noten.

Nordstrom, Tysons Corner, 703-761-1121; nordstrom.com.

Sandals, Emilio Pucci ($1,325). emiliopucci.com

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feelin’ groovy Washingtonians WoW With a ’70s fashion flashback this spring. photography by rene & radka styling by martina nilsson

opposite page: Ubino tunic

($795) and Cinque pants ($450), Max Mara. Tysons Galleria, 703-556-6962; maxmara.com.

Scarf, Tory Burch ($175).

1211 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-337-1410; toryburch.com.

Agate belt, Hanley Mellon ($450); hanleymellon.com.

Woven fringe handbag, Salvatore Ferragamo ($5,800).

Tysons Galleria, 703-748-7620; ferragamo.com this page: Henley ($695), skirt

($1,695), and belt ($425), Bally.

Tysons Corner, 703-760-8924; bally.com. 18k yellow gold Cable Classics diamond bracelet ($4,800) and 18k yellow gold X diamond bracelet ($3,600), David Yurman. Tysons Galleria, 703-245-3515; davidyurman.com.

Metallic sandals, Gucci ($1,100).

The Collection at Chevy Chase, 301-986-8902; gucci.com

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on ellinore: Viscose linen

jacket ($2,250) and pants ($950) and silk scarf (price on request), Emilio Pucci. emiliopucci.com. Bracelet, Chanel ($1,475). Tysons Galleria, 703-847-0555; chanel.com on niclas: Kid mohair jacket

($3,060) and pants ($1,330), Prada. Tysons Galleria, 703-245-3438; prada.com.

Cashmere turtleneck, Ermenegildo Zegna ($895). Tysons Galleria, 571-730-1900; zegna.com

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opposite page: Suede blouse ($4,050)

and brass ring-embellished shorts ($1,895), Chloé. Neiman Marcus, Tysons Galleria, 703-761-1600; neimanmarcus.com. Turban (worn as top) ($270) and bangles ($250–$300), Missoni. Nordstrom, Tysons Corner, 703-761-1121; nordstrom.com this page: Knit top (price on request),

silk crepe bra (price on request), overstitched denim pants (price on request), light denim PM Epi Twist bag ($3,600), and monogram flower ankle boots ($1,390), Louis Vuitton.

The Collection at Chevy Chase, 301-654-1101; louisvuitton.com beauté: Number 4 Blow Dry Lotion ($32), Non-Aerosol Hair Spray ($30), Support Solution ($30). Piaf Salon and Day Spa, 1023 15th St. NW, 202-783-3334; number4hair.com.

Dior Diorskin Star Foundation ($50), Diorskin Star Concealer ($36), Diorskin Nude Shimmer in Amber ($56), Diorshow Mono Eye Shadows in Nude and Panama ($30 each), Diorshow Liner Waterproof in Chestnut ($29), Dior Addict IT Lash Mascara in IT-Black ($28), Sourcils Poudre Eyebrow Pencil in Blonde ($29), Rouge Dior Lipstick in Trompe L’œil ($35). Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin NW Ave., 301-657-9000; saksfifthavenue.com

Photography by Rene & Radka at Art Department Styling by Martina Nilsson at Opus Beauty Hair by Dimitris Giannetos at Opus Beauty using Number 4 Hair Care Makeup by Allan Avendaño at Opus Beauty using Dior Models: Ellinore Erichsen at NEXT Los Angeles and Niclas Gillis at LA Models Produced by Art Department Producer on set: Tony Milano Photo assistant: Adam Rondou

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clockwise from top left: Sim Khan and Martha Slagle; fashion experts Robin Givhan, Jennifer Hing, Carl Ray, Slagle, Khan, and Rachel Cothran; Hing’s cocktail ring emblazoned with a colorful spider, which she describes as “gorgeous and super fun”; Slagle classifies her silver Rene Caovilla heels as comfortable yet luxurious; our stylish panelists enjoyed a luncheon while discussing the capital’s changing fashion scene; Ray and Hing sip bubbly at the West End penthouse.

district design

Six local Style SetterS weigh in on the wayS Dc haS uppeD itS faShion game.

By Amy Moeller Photography by Mike Morgan

With major designers moving in and hollywood taking note, the dC style scene has enjoyed a renaissance the last few years. ready to rebuff the notion that Washingtonians are safe and staid when it comes to couture, six tastemakers—robin givhan, The Washington Post’s fashion critic; Carl ray, makeup artist to the First Lady; jennifer hing, house appropriations Committee communications director; martha slagle, neiman marcus vP/general manager; sim Khan, founder of the custom menswear label Brimble & Clark; and rachel Cothran, style blogger and director of communications at georgetown Bid—met over bubbly in the West end to discuss the updated look of the district. in tow, each expert brought along one signature item that best represents his or her sense of dC style.

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style i.d.

“My grandfather taught me the importance of standout conservatism. A royal-blue suit on its own looks like a standard blue suit. But next to a guy wearing a navy suit, it blows him out of the water. It’s like putting a highlighter all over yourself, so that people will gravitate toward you. With Brimble & Clark, I want our suits to open doors for our guys—in the boardroom, in the courtroom, and in the bedroom.”

—sim khan

We have a range of occupations and personalities here, and yet, each of you in your own way is an authority on style—and impeccably dressed. How did that start?

Robin Givhan, staff writer and fashion critic, The Washington Post: I love writing and journalism, and oddly, a fashion [position] happened to be open at the early point in my career. I found it interesting because it’s one of few [subjects] that is so personal: Everyone has to engage in it in some way, and it speaks volumes about who we are as a culture.

Jennifer Hing, communications director, House Appropriations Committee: I have always worked in an environment [where everyone dressed conservatively], and one day I got tired of wearing a black suit and a white buttondown. So I decided to think outside the box and be a little more adventurous.

Carl Ray, makeup artist: At a very young age I knew I was attracted to art and painting. I used to do my mother’s makeup growing up. She was going through a divorce, and I just thought she was doing it all wrong. I was 14 or 15. It was my passion, my calling.

Martha Slagle, vice president and general manager, Neiman Marcus: I got into retail fashion as a teenager to support my shopping habit.

At 16 I lied and said I was 18 so I could work at Woodies [Woodward & Lothrop]. I was then a buyer at Garfinckel’s, and now [I’ve worked] 21 years at Neiman Marcus. I’ve been supporting my habit all along.

Sim Khan, founder, Brimble & Clark: I was a banking lawyer before I started my [custom-suit] business. At 30, I looked about 17, so in the courtroom, I needed to wear suits to look my age and to look like I knew what I was doing. I developed a new way to do [suit] fittings and translated that into a business.

Rachel Cothran, style blogger and director of communications, Georgetown BID: I’m from a small town in Virginia, and I didn’t grow up with much in the way of fashion or shopping, so I [had] fashion magazines. When I came to DC in 2007, I started a fashion blog when there were maybe one or two others. I hit the streets and photographed people who had an attractive and interesting look [and who had] something to say. Fashion is my artistic outlet.

The movement of DC fashion away from an ultraconservative style has been a popular discussion recently.

Cothran: What’s interesting about DC is that it’s not really a fashion town—and I don’t think it needs to be.

Slagle: Thirty years ago we did not have designers. Not everybody carried Chanel and Dolce &

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style i.d.

“This vintage pink brocade swing coat is probably from the ’60s, and it has some

Gabbana, and over the years many more vendors have accepted DC as a fashion place. I disagree— we are [about] classic fashion, not trends. There is a difference between [being] trendy and being [fashionable].

Givhan: One of my first stories at The Post was based on an observation: I was watching people come out of the Farragut Metro, and I was amazed at how many women were in very tailored suits but wearing giant sneakers. I couldn’t figure out why they felt they didn’t have to be who they ultimately had to be once they arrived at the office.... [general laughter] Our switchboard almost exploded because people were so angry. I’m not saying you need to wear four-inch stilettos to the Metro, but [you could wear] ballet flats…. The point is, there was a sense of being on at the workplace, but almost invisible until you got [there]. Now, there is this sense of Washington as a place where people live and express themselves beyond their job titles.

I also think that men now look interesting, surprising, and great in this city.

Khan: For 30 years DC has had an epidemic of what I call “it’s all about the khakis”: [khaki pants,] blue blazers, red ties, and white shirts. But there has been an influx of diplomats and expats influencing everything from food to fashion, and their slim, European style is starting to mix with the Southern preppy tradition. Something really cool is evolving from that—[it’s] unique to DC and encouraging.

Hing: And the influx of millennials [has had an impact, too]. I think young blood has changed the lexicon, especially in Capitol Hill and in politics.

People are more willing to take risks. [Millennials] grew up with fashion blogs and watching America’s Next Top Model, and they don’t necessarily feel like they have to stay in their bubble anymore.

Givhan: Not to slam millennials, but all good things that happened in Washington did not arrive on the backs of millennials. There is interesting and exciting fashion in Washington, but I don’t think that it’s due to millennials—in some ways I think the fashion they brought is informal, not particularly interesting fashion. It’s the anti-suitand-tie [style], but not necessarily innovative. That creative stuff has happened across many generations, and some of it comes from a generation [of people who have] more disposable income and feel more comfortable expressing themselves.

Ray: Makeup has come a long way. It used to be [common to have a] very stark, simple face, and now people are expressing themselves more with makeup and color, changing the textures and trends, and [evolving] with the seasons. It has gotten a lot better. I invite it.

Cothran: Did someone suddenly give us permission to step out a little bit?

Hing: One of the most interesting things that

embroidery around the neckline and down the front. I bought it in between my freshman and sophomore years of college when I was living on Taco Bell and Celeste pizza in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. There was this vintage store right on the beach road, sort of out of place. [The coat] was $75, which was a lot of money to me at the time, but I loved it; I’ve loved it ever since.”

—rachel cothran

style i.d.

“My Rene Caovilla shoes are my [signature look] when I go out for the evening. I want a comfortable shoe that looks glamorous, and with that silver heel, it’s one of the most luxurious, as well as comfortable, shoes you can [wear].”

—martha slagle

happened for Washington professionals, particularly women, was the rallying cry from the industry that professional attire did not necessarily equal a suit. And all of a sudden, you see women wearing dresses to the office. [This mind-set] allowed women to be more expressive. You can still look fashionable, but also appropriate for your environment.

Cothran: In DC people really want to be taken seriously for their ideas. And those [people] buy beautiful things that are well made and classic.

That is a prerogative: looking put together and not too flashy.

Jennifer mentioned still having to wear a coat on the House floor out of respect for the institution. How does fashion translate to the political realm?

Khan: I see a gap between professions that’s unique to DC: government versus everything else.

In government, bad style is a bipartisan effort.

They have style PTSD because they remember what happened to John Edwards’ campaign when he started getting $400 haircuts. Nobody’s going to forget “suitgate” with the president’s attempt to wear something other than a navy suit. In politics, style is stagnant. But a lot of guys on K Street— lobbyists, lawyers, bankers—are starting to understand, by watching House of Cards, Suits, Mad Men, Madam Secretary, that being taken seriously [professionally] isn’t just about knowing what you’re doing; it’s also about looking like you know what you’re doing.

Givhan: There [are] people embracing trends faster and being more creative. And then there is C-SPAN, and that is never going to be trendy. I don’t want the leader of the free world wearing a skinny suit and an ascot. It’s more about the

tailoring and the quality of fabric. There are people on Capitol Hill who’ve been secret buyers of bespoke suits, but they don’t talk about it, because it’s not good to be known for spending $5,000 on a suit. But the suit doesn’t scream $5,000—the suit just says, “I’m very well tailored.”

Cothran: And you don’t see it. You’re not staring at that person. It’s about looking powerful and strong. This is a smart, powerful city.

Hing: It’s also about convincing people. A put-together appearance equals a put-together mind, [and] a put-together profession. I came to the Hill in ’02, when women’s style was your Talbots twinset—not that there is anything wrong with that—but it was your basic black suit/white button-down, or your twinset and skirt. Now you’ll walk into the House cafeteria and see more young people from different backgrounds, and even on government salaries, they’re making creative, interesting choices.

Givhan: Do you think there’s a trickle down from the executive office to the rest of Washington—that it matters who’s in the White House?

Ray: I think it does matter that people see what’s going on in the bigger office and the newness of what is going on in the world. I’ve seen a change in style since I’ve been working with the [current] administration and in DC. It’s getting stronger, with more individual style.

Cothran: A lot of people thought when Michelle Obama [became first lady], the city and its style would change. And being so tied into the local art scene, I thought there’d been a lot [of change] already bubbling under the surface, but when Michelle came in, it emanated in a big way.

Givhan: One of the differences is that [Michelle] came from the world of business, not politics.

What was really striking about her wasn’t that she upset the whole political fashion construct, but that she came in and all of a sudden here was this person who was a real professional: a regular woman in the White House. She was wearing what she wanted to wear, for better or worse.

style i.d.

“A Prada jacket that I bought many, many years ago. It’s a cropped Shirley jacket with a jeweled collar, and it is very much a luxury for me. I love a little sparkle at all times of the day. Someone once asked me right after I bought it whether or not I was planning to retire it after the season, and I laughed and said, ‘Are you kidding me? I’ll probably be buried in this jacket!’”

—robin givhan

You’ve alluded to the idea that a Washingtonian’s style is heavily influenced by how he or she wants to be perceived.

Khan: It’s like you’re not really dressing for yourself. It’s marketing: dressing to suit your occupation. It’s not a mistake that, in menswear, most representatives [of Congress] look like your grandfather—that’s whom you want to elect. You want them representing your interests. But guys like Representative Aaron Schock are changing that. It depends on their base. On his days off, Vice President Biden dresses pretty well. They know that, in front of the cameras, they have to look like the everyman. It’s a tough line to [straddle].

Let’s talk more about Hollywood’s influence.

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style i.d.

“I like to change my reading glasses a lot.

For outfits, occasions, the way I feel that day—it’s just an expression of myself. I love different shapes, sizes, colors.”

—carl ray

So many current television shows are set in DC, and the characters are very fashionable.

Slagle: Dressing for success. They want to look successful, and in DC they feel it’s a power suit, a power scarf, a power bag, or a power shoe.

Cothran: Scandal is one people talk about a lot.

To me, [the characters] always look put together, and that’s how DC prioritizes who looks good and who doesn’t.

Givhan: They look like Washington on its best day, with everything tailored and a little bit tighter, which makes for good television.

Cothran: [Robin Wright’s character on House of Cards] looks amazing. She wears chic dresses all the time: very tailored, very architectural. That’s DC—amped up by 50 percent.

Khan: Scandal is almost true to life—the tailored silhouettes and the use of color. You see that a lot on lobbyists, because they need to look like they have influence. But with politicians it’s definitely not a case of art imitating life. In House of Cards, you see Frank Underwood’s evolution from the big suit as house whip to something more tailored as president.

Carl, does this same newfound purposefulness apply to makeup?

Ray: There is a definition of how people think they should look, but they are going outside that box now. They are wearing lashes; they are wearing colorful lipstick; they are wearing eyeliner and cat eyes. They’re not afraid to express themselves anymore.

Givhan: I remember a conversation with Richard Martin from The Costume Institute at the Met who [said] that the last time we, as a country, expected our elected officials to be more polished and look better than we do, was with the Kennedys. After that, there was this desire to have someone who looked like us, like the person next door—not quite as slick. It seems like we got stuck there.

Cothran: I wonder why it stopped with the

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style i.d.

“My item is an MCL multicolored cocktail ring with a spider embossed on

Kennedys. People have such a fascination with that family and era. What changed?

Givhan: Distrust of government: a feeling that we wanted greater empathy from government.

Hing: In the ’70s there was a terrible recession.

Immediately after Kennedy, you had Nixon, wars, distrust, and an economic downturn.

Khan: I think that hits it on the head. With an economic downturn people don’t want to see somebody in office spending a lot on clothes.

Givhan: When billionaire [Malcolm] Forbes ran for president, he purposefully wore ill-fitting suits.

Hing: That doesn’t surprise me.

How has this change affected local business?

Or vice versa?

Slagle: I think brick-and-mortar is still very much alive. It’s all about relationships. [Clients] call and say, “I’m going someplace—I just found out, and I need this. Can you have this ready for me?”

Khan: I absolutely agree. There is an importance to that personal interaction and that accessibility.

DC customers have access to more personalized shopping. At Brimble & Clark we send guys out to your home or your office; they look through your closets. There is a whole style consultation process that you probably wouldn’t otherwise have had some years ago.

Slagle: Even I personally go to customers’ homes.

If you do the right thing for them and make them look like they are supposed to look, it’s the best advertisement you can have.

Someone mentioned that Ann Taylor— which everyone jokes is the DC uniform— has become more boutique-like, and its inventory has evolved. Has that pushed the envelope for Washingtonians?

Givhan: Over the last 10 years fashion has changed, and there’s no longer this separate bubble of “fashion” [versus] other clothing. Even the woman who is the standby Ann Taylor customer is getting a more contemporary product than she was 10 years ago. The Eileen Fisher [customer] is getting a more contemporary, relevant product than she might have 10 years ago.

Cothran: I loved your point that someone can now feel like he or she is a person outside of work.

Givhan: It’s a reflection of more interesting, creative industries coming into Washington. [DC is] not so overwhelmingly smothered by the federal government. There are other elements that make for a more interesting environment—galleries and restaurants and bars. [People say,] “Oh, I can buy that because, now, I actually have a place to wear it.” This roundtable was hosted in a luxury penthouse in the West End at 1200 23rd St. NW, 910, currently listed for $799,000. Listing agent: Joyce Wehrle, RE/MAX Allegiance, 202-338-8900; joyce. wehrle@rmxtalk.com cf

the front. It’s the first piece of jewelry I purchased for myself. It was a splurge item, and I absolutely love it. It’s gorgeous and also super fun and unique.

I also happen to love spiders, so it was a very appropriate piece of jewelry for me to be attracted to.”

—jennifer hing

NATUR E

I N T H E E Y E of T H E S T O R M The world’s growing population and the impact of the changing climate are putting nature’s ability to provide for all of us at risk. Are we paying enough attention to this looming threat?

PhotograPhy by Kurt MarKus/trunK archive; oPPosite Page: JaMes WoJciK/trunK archive

By Jill Sigal

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When you see the abundance of food at the local supermarket—the bins of fruits and vegetables, the seafood on ice, the water bottles on the shelves—you may not always think about where it all comes from or what would happen if nature could no longer provide for us. Currently there are 7.3 billion people on the planet. According to a report by the United Nations, the world’s population is expected to grow to 9.6 billion by the year 2050. Global demand for food, water, and energy is predicted to increase by 35 percent, 40 percent, and 50 percent, respectively, by 2030. This will further test nature’s ability to provide for us, as will the expanding middle class around the world.

The unprecedented consumption of critical natural resources poses enormous challenges for the entire planet. Some countries are already feeling the effects with depleted fisheries and diminished food stocks resulting from the inability of agricultural production to keep pace with demand. In recent years, more food was consumed around the world than was produced. The changing climate compounds these trends, as the increasing number and severity of storms (like Hurricane Sandy, which battered the East Coast in 2012), floods, and droughts threaten global food and water supplies.

Competition for increasingly scarce resources can lead to social and political instability, conflict, radicalization, and possibly even failed nations. According to the US National Intelligence Council, “[resource] scarcities are likely to hit hardest on poorer states, leading in the worst case to internal or interstate conflict and spillover to regional destabilization.” Richard Haass, president of the Council on Foreign Relations, the country’s premier foreign-policy think tank, agrees.

“Resources are linked to both the stability of countries and to the stability of regions,” he says. Resource shortages and competition need to be on “the list of possible sources of friction or conflict” and are “potentially a contributing cause of instability within countries and conceivably a source of instability between countries.” But resource scarcity is not just a problem for other countries; it is also a threat to the United States’ economic interests and national security.

is there hope?

Given the stress on nature’s ability to provide for the growing population due to increasing demand and the serious impacts of the changing climate, are we doomed, or is there still hope? According to Peter Seligmann, a leading conservationist and the founder, chairman, and CEO of Conservation International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting nature for the well-being of people, there is reason to be hopeful. “Many governments,

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businesses, and local communities are realizing the importance of nature to the global economy, livelihoods, and security,” he says. “They are not standing on the sidelines watching as nature is depleted. They are engaging and taking actions to ensure nature is sustainable.”

Seligmann cites the example of Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, which is leading the charge for sustainability among corporations with its three goals: to sell products that sustain both people and the environment, to create zero waste, and to run on 100 percent renewable energy. Due to its vast size, Walmart can have a significant impact on sustainability up and down its supply chain. “Walmart executives see that their supplies of fish and food depend upon the health of ecosystems,” Seligmann explains, “and they see that ecosystems are being stressed out by shifts in climate. That affects their supply. They’re thinking long-term.”

According to Rob Walton, the company’s chairman and the eldest son of Walmart founder Sam Walton, “For Walmart, it’s about our responsibility as a business, but partly about how many of our sustainability efforts allow us to be more efficient and to continue to pass those savings on to our customers.”

Ensuring a sustainable supply chain so that its shelves are always fully stocked is critical to the company’s business.

If you’ve noticed a difference in the size of laundry detergent bottles in the last decade, you have Walmart to thank. The company has single-handedly driven the industry to embrace more eco-friendly packaging. And at Walmart’s 2014 Sustainability Product Expo, it introduced an initiative challenging manufacturers to reduce by 25 percent the amount of water in every dose of detergent in North America by 2018. Also announced at the Expo was a new initiative to increase recycling rates in the US by providing low-interest loans to municipalities for recycling projects.

Increasingly, companies—including Disney, Starbucks, and Marriott—are realizing that environmental sustainability is not only in their economic self-interest; it is also in the interest of their customers and the communities in which they operate.

For example, The Walt Disney Company is implementing major changes designed to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, improve its energy efficiency, reduce its water consumption, minimize waste, protect natural ecosystems, and inspire action on environmental health. The company is also funding a flagship project in the Peruvian Amazon to address the main causes of deforestation.

Many are aware of Whole Foods’ eco-friendly policies, which include supporting sustainable agriculture and sound environmental practices. The company has also designed Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design [LEED]-certified stores and initiated recycling programs, and it offsets 100 percent of

PhotograPhy by XoNoVEtS

ake a look around and it becomes clear that nearly everything surrounding us—the food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, the butcher-block table in your kitchen, the paper used for this magazine—comes from nature. The simple truth is that humanity cannot survive without nature: for our food, fresh water, lifesaving medicines, and so much more.

The unprecedented consumption of natural resources

poses enormous challenges for the entire planet.

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“Protecting nature is not an option— it is essential for the well-being of people.

it is not someone else’s problem.

We are all in this together.”

PhotograPhy by montree hanlue

—Peter Seligmann

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its energy consumption with renewable-energy credits. And through its sustainable coffee-sourcing program, known as CAFE (Coffee and Farmer Equity) Practices, Starbucks is maintaining the quality of its brews while encouraging higher environmental, social, and economic standards. The initiative has had a significant positive impact on forest conservation and coffee-farming communities, and the company is expected to meet its goal of serving 100 percent ethically sourced coffee this year.

(See sidebar for a list of other eco-conscious companies.)

how is the changing climate affecting us now?

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, an international body that reviews scientific research on the changing climate, stated in a recent report that it is “unequivocal” that the global climate is warming: “The atmosphere and ocean have warmed, the amounts of snow and ice have diminished, and sea level has risen.”

The IPCC notes that concentrations of greenhouse gases have increased and projects that if the current rate of greenhouse gas emissions continues, the climate and oceans will continue to warm during the 21st century. That could result in sea levels rising anywhere from 21 inches to three feet by 2100, endangering cities worldwide, from New York and Miami to London and Sydney. Coastal flooding and erosion are expected to increase with rising sea levels.

The panel also found evidence that human health, agriculture, water supplies, and in some cases people’s livelihoods have already been impacted by climate change.

Increased acidification of the oceans (from the absorption of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere) has harmed marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs and fisheries, potentially threatening our food security. The IPCC predicts climate change is projected to impact the availability of fresh water and increase water scarcity, which could result in competition for the resource. The production of crops like wheat and rice is also projected to be negatively impacted by the changing climate. Risks to human health may also rise due to stronger heat waves, decreased food production, and a greater prevalence of disease, according to the panel.

One place that is already feeling the impact of the changing climate is the remote nation of Kiribati, which sits just a few feet above sea level in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, more than 1,000 miles south of Hawaii. Kiribati is composed of 33 tiny islands and has a population of just over 100,000. If sea levels continue to rise, this republic, which is directly in the eye of the storm, could literally be swallowed up by the sea.

According to the country’s president, Anote Tong, rising tides have damaged property and infrastructure, and sea water is intruding on freshwater plants and damaging food crops. “The future is a very real concern,” he says. “My grandchildren will have a very difficult future. We really have to do a lot of work. We need resources to be able to build up the islands in order to be resilient to the impacts that will come in the future.”

Although people living thousands of miles from Kiribati may not yet feel the effects of climate change directly, eventually they will, Tong adds, and the world should act now, before it’s too late. “It is better not to look back and say, ‘Oh no, we should have done something,’” says Tong. He sees this issue as “the most serious moral challenge for humanity,” adding that “humanity will, at some point in time, see the need and the obligation to respond to what is happening. If it’s later, we will go down the drain, but hopefully it will be a lesson. I hope that lesson is well learned to ensure that whatever further damage would be caused will not happen.”

Here at home, the third National Climate Assessment, published last year, reports that people across the United States—from corn growers in Iowa to oyster farmers in Washington State—are already feeling the impact of our changing climate, and that impact is growing. The first decade of the 21st century was the world’s hottest on record, and 2012 was the warmest year recorded in the continental United States. According to the report, temperatures in most areas of the country are expected to rise by as much as four degrees Fahrenheit in the coming decades, which threatens US agricultural production, worth about $330 billion annually.

The US defense and intelligence communities are increasingly focusing on the impact of climate change on resource scarcity, food security, and stability within and among nations. The US Department of Defense’s 2014 Quadrennial Defense

Making a

Difference

These global brands are leading the way in environmentally responsible practices.

Chipotle Mexican Grill has made a commitment to “Food with Integrity” by serving organic, locally grown, and familyfarmed foods. The company has also pledged to offer sustainably produced food and dairy products without synthetic hormones.

The Coca-Cola Company is working to achieve its 2020 environmental goals, which include improving water efficiency by 25 percent, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 25 percent, raising the recovery rate of its cans and bottles to 75 percent in developed markets, and sustainably sourcing key ingredients. The company has also participated in hundreds of Community Water Partnership projects, providing access to safe water in countries around the world.

Hewlett-Packard, through its Living Progress program, employs its technological expertise to help build a sustainable world. As part of the program, the Earth Insights project uses a groundbreaking early-warning system that allows scientists to monitor endangered species in tropical ecosystems in almost real time.

Marriott International, a Bethesda-based company, is implementing a comprehensive sustainability strategy that includes commitments to reduce energy and water consumption, green its supply chain, and inspire its guests and associates to conserve natural resources. The company has also provided support to forest and water conservation projects in Brazil and China.

Omega partnered with the GoodPlanet Foundation in 2011, and within a year the company showcased the beauty of the world’s oceans in the documentary Planet Ocean, examined the stresses on its ecosystems, and offered solutions. To further foster conservation, Omega designed a special timepiece, the Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M GMT GoodPlanet, a portion of whose sales proceeds fully fund a project to preserve mangroves, sea grasses, and coral reefs in the seas of Southeast Asia.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts is committed to sustainable practices while continuing to offer a great experience for its guests. The company has set a target of 2020 to decrease energy and water consumption by 30 percent and 20 percent, respectively, and to reduce emissions and waste.

Stella McCartney’s line features an array of environmentally friendly products, such as eyewear produced with materials like castor oil seeds and citric acid; shoes with soles made from a bio-plastic called APINAT, which degrades when placed in a compost pile; and a faux-leather line created with more than 50 percent vegetable oil, which allows the company to use less petroleum in its products.

Tiffany & Co. employs only paper suppliers that have been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council for the brand’s famous blue boxes and bags.

Unilever has established the goal of sourcing 100 percent of its agricultural raw materials sustainably by 2020. In the same time period, the company has also committed to cutting its greenhouse gas emissions, per-customer water use, and waste.

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adapt to the changes that have already occurred and prepare for those to come.

Ecosystem-based approaches, such as conserving and restoring forests and coastal mangrove swamps, as well as building seawalls to protect against the rising oceans, are adaptive measures that can reduce the impact of climate change by increasing a locality’s resilience. “Those actions require a change in our behavior,” he says.

“Those actions require a change in how we supply our energy. Those actions require an increased recognition of the importance of securing ecosystems and their health.”

What can individuals do to make a difference? “There is much we can do, in terms of whom we vote for and in terms of making good choices with our dollars to make sure we purchase things that are manufactured by companies that are really helping to find solutions rather than exacerbating the problem,” Seligmann says.

“Protecting nature is not an option. It is essential for the well-being of people. It is not someone else’s problem. We are all in this together.”

No one can predict the future with 100 percent accuracy, so we cannot know for sure how the changing climate will alter nature’s ability to provide for the world’s growing population. Nor can we be certain of the long-term impact that resource scarcity will have on the global economy, security, and people’s livelihoods. But what we can see are the consequences of the changing climate today. We can either take action now to ensure the health of our natural world, or we can wait and see whether the predictions come true and hope we don’t end up looking back and saying, “Oh no, we should have done something.”

Nature and all it provides for us—fresh water, fertile soil, food, and so much more—is the lifeblood of human well-being. The pressures on its ecosystems have never been greater. The stakes have never been higher. Protecting nature from the changing climate and ensuring its health is of strategic importance to our economy, our security, and our survival. The planet will endure, with or without us. As Harrison Ford, vice chair of Conservation International, says, “Nature doesn’t need people. People need nature.” CF

PhotograPhy by Jan Mika

Review characterizes climate change as a significant global challenge. “The pressures caused by climate change will influence resource competition while placing additional burdens on economies, societies, and governance institutions around the world,” the report states. “These effects are threat multipliers that will aggravate stressors abroad such as poverty, environmental degradation, political instability, and social tensions—conditions that can enable terrorist activity and other forms of violence.”

In a 2013 speech, Chuck Hagel, then the US secretary of defense, spoke about how climate change can “significantly add to the challenges of global instability, hunger, poverty, and conflict. Food and water shortages, pandemic disease, disputes over refugees and resources, and more severe natural disasters all place additional burdens on economies, societies, and institutions around the world.”

Richard Haass of the Council on Foreign Relations agrees that the changing climate is potentially a source of social instability, possibly resulting in large-scale population movements and a humanitarian nightmare as well as political destabilization. The changing climate raises real questions of economic viability, he says, and if it leads to failed states, “that can create breeding grounds for terrorism or other forms of behaviors that we do not want to see.”

Despite the concerns expressed by scientists and world leaders, Americans rank addressing global warming near the bottom of their policy priorities. In a poll conducted last year by the Pew Research Center, global warming came in 19th among 20 policy concerns, with the economy, jobs, and defending the country from terrorism being the respondents’ top priorities. Yet, according to Conservation International’s Peter Seligmann, the changing climate could be devastating in all of those areas—threatening our food and water supply, our economic stability, and ultimately our security—and he believes that something must be done now.

Nations and communities need to take measures to mitigate climate change by reducing their greenhouse gas emissions, Seligmann says, adding they must also

clockwise from left:

Local businesses source produce from regional farms and support sustainable agriculture; programs like Capital Bikeshare offer environmentally friendly transportation alternatives in DC; and clean-energy companies like Ethical Electric provide power through local wind farms.

weathering the storm Get Informed

district department of the environment: Learn about DC’s environmental services—like local cleanup projects you can participate in—and get savvy about sustainability with Energy Smart DC, a guide to energy effciency and renewable energy programs. green.dc.gov maryland energy administration: Find residential energy-saving tips, such as installing a low-fow showerhead to save up to 60 percent on water bills. energy.maryland.gov/facts/est

PhotograPhy by shutterstock.com

virginia energy sense: By 2022, the state of Virginia aims to reduce energy consumption to 10 percent below 2006 levels. Residents can visit the program’s website for tools and tips. virginiaenergysense.org environmental film festival: The 23rd annual Environmental Film Festival (March 17–29) will feature 150-plus new flms at more than 60 venues throughout DC. This year’s theme, “Climate Connections,” explores climate change though flms like Ice & Sky, which looks at the impact of climate change on glaciers in the Antarctic, and Seeds of Time, which focuses on the race to protect the future of our food supply. dcenvironmentalflmfest.org

A green-living guide for DMV dwellers. By Melanie Fonder Kaye

chesapeake climate action network: Take action—through petitions, lobby days, and calls to legislators—to fght global warming with this grassroots nonproft focused on Maryland, Virginia, and DC. chesapeakeclimate.org

Shop LocaL

freshfarm markets: Since their beginning in 1997 in Dupont Circle, these farmers markets have become a regional and national model, with eight locations in DC and additional outposts in Maryland and Virginia. They draw from more than 150 farmers and producers and act as a venue for chefs who host demonstrations of recipes using products from the market. freshfarmmarkets.org csas: CSAs (community-supported agriculture programs) offer members a weekly share of fresh produce from regional farms, delivered to their homes or available for pickup in the community.

Local CSAs include From the Farmer (fromthe farmerdc.com), Shallowbrooke Farm (shallow brookefarm.com), Licking Creek Bend Farm (lickingcreekbendfarm.com), and Spiral Path Farm (spiralpathfarm.com). washington’s green grocer: This grocery service sources locally grown food, supports sustainable agriculture, and delivers products to

your doorstep at a time convenient for you. washingtonsgreengrocer.com

reduce Your carbon footprInt getting around: Plan your trip on the Metro (wmata.com), join Capital Bikeshare (capitalbike share.com), and support a bike-friendly region by joining the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (waba.org).

carbonfreedc: From effective recycling tips to purchasing materials with the least environmental impact, this grassroots effort aims to mobilize residents, businesses, organizations, and the government to reduce local carbon emissions. carbonfreedc.org ethical electric: Vote with your pocketbook through Ethical Electric, a company that acts as a broker in the competitive electricity markets of DC and Maryland by buying clean electricity from local renewable sources, such as wind and solar farms located within 200 miles of its DC and Maryland customers. ethicalelectric.com dc solar united partners: Join DCSUN, an umbrella organization that advocates for accessible and affordable rooftop solar power throughout DC. dcsun.org

CAPiToLFiLE-MAgAziNE.CoM

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haute property News, Stars, and trends in real estate The kitchen at 5708 Bent Branch Road is equipped with exquisite yet practical touches, like countertops made of granite resembling Carrara marble.

photography courtesy of the fleisher group

American Dream House Redux

The Suburban STyliSh are flocking To claSSic homeS wiTh luxe appoinTmenTS and a conTemporary feel. by james servin A storybook Colonial home set on a winding, well-manicured street in Bethesda has old-world charm—a large stone fireplace in the living room, a dining room with detailed millwork, and covered back porches. But the perks of its new construction are what make it appealing and practical for a modern family: pristine oak floors stained a dark walnut, gleaming windows and bathroom tiles, gallery-style pin lights in the living and dining rooms, and a gourmet continued on page 118

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hautE propErty

“Young families want space to grow into. everYthing here is bigger and better.” —marc fleisher kitchen with counters topped with a white stone that has the glow of Carrara marble, but is a durable granite.

“The granite is called Colonial White,” says Stephen Yeonas, managing member of Artisan Builders, who constructed the five-bedroom on 5708 Bent Branch Road. “You can spill red wine on it and treat it later, rather than sooner.”

The theme of stylish family-friendliness runs through the 6,006-square-foot home: Kitchen cabinets are factory painted with 16 coats, which helps maintain their finish, and makes them easy to clean. Also in the kitchen is a food-prep island that features a microwave oven situated just below the counter.

“By having a microwave at drawer height,” says Yeonas, “you can open the door and stir a dish without having to take it out.”

Ceiling beams in the kitchen and dining areas look like wood, but are a synthetic material that is easy to maintain: “A wood beam might have issues with warping and twisting,” Yeonas notes. Ceiling panels in the foyer have been salvaged from a nearby 19th-century home and then stained and layered with an authentic historical texture. “Buyers are looking for homes with quality materials and finishes,” says Marc Fleisher, CEO of the Fleisher Group, which is listing the home at $2.6 million (202-243-2927). “Here, the millwork, tiles, and stones are what is called transitional—classic Colonial design with a contemporary feel.”

The lot that this home sits on, along with the property adjoining it at 5704 Bent Branch (also for sale), was once the site of a single ranch home belonging to Paul Tagliabue, former NFL commissioner. Tagliabue bequeathed something special to the families who will one day live here: a perfectly f lat backyard. “It’s rare to find a yard without any

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undulation—perfect for children’s play, a soccer field, or swimming pools,” says Fleisher. “Both 15,000-squarefoot lots are 20 percent larger than typical lots in this neighborhood.”

With Glen Echo Park, The Irish Inn at Glen Echo, The Shops at Sumner Place, and downtown DC 30 minutes away, the well-appointed home offers the comforts of suburbia as well as easy access to city life.

“Young families want space to grow into, which this home affords with its separate entrances, two-car garage, and secondary mudrooms and powder rooms,” says Fleisher. “Everything here is bigger and better.” CF

The transitional design of the foyer and dining room features walnut-stained oak floors and detailed millwork.

Suburban EScapES Families looking to flee the hubbub of DC can find luxury—and ample square footage— in Bethesda.

A cluster of new fivebedroom homes in Bethesda is selling in the $2 million range. At 5218 Nahant Street, light pours in through two walls of energyefficient windows in the open kitchen and dining area, giving the space a greenhouse quality. Rooms in this Arts and Crafts– influenced 4,775-squarefoot residence are scaled down for an intimate feel.

“Buyers don’t want cavernous spaces; they want livable, cozier spaces,” says Hans Wydler of Wydler Brothers real estate (301-986-6405), which represents the $1.72 million property. A five-bedroom will be built this spring at 5311 Waneta Road, the last home on a dead-end street—a highly desirable location, says realtor Christina Graham-Yooll (301-502-0872). “They’re hot right now because young families moving from the city don’t want to deal with street noise and traffic.” At 7308 Durbin Terrace is a welcoming new two-story with an extended front porch and ingenious extras, such as a dishwasher in the basement family room. “As a mom, I love it,” says realtor Cindy Souza (301-861-0937), who represents the $2.3 million home. “If you’re entertaining, who wants to schlep dishes up and down?”

photography courtesy of the fleisher group

The stone fireplace lends the living room old-world charm, while gallery-style pin lights add contemporary appeal.

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Thank You from the Women’s Board of the American Heart Association for your generous support of

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Mrs. Evan Jones

Anne D. Camalier

haute property

estatements

Sweet Suburbia

LEAVE IT TO BEAVER LAND JUST GOT A LOT CLOSER TO THE CITY. by amy rose dobson After years of planning, years of construction, and years of anticipation, the Silver Line has finally opened its doors, providing rail service from McLean all the way to Reston. Now that development has begun on the second phase—for stations from Herndon to Dulles Airport and beyond—the local housing market is starting to see a ripple effect.

Amy McCarthy, a real estate agent with Redfin who specializes in the Reston area, sees the competitiveness common to Washington, DC, making its way west. “There are signs of slight price increases,” she says. “But what we’re really seeing is that things aren’t sitting on the market as long. For example, last November, I had buyers go under contract on a house with multiple offers that was only on the market for eight days. You see that inside the Beltway often, and in the suburbs it does happen in the spring. But for November in Reston, that is major.”

For homes currently on the market, the listing descriptions now mention proximity to the Silver Line as a major selling point. A stunning contemporary home in Great Falls, for instance, offers 10,000 square feet of living space and impressive luxury features, including a dense patch of woodland, but the sellers still make a point of citing the new Metro station as one of the best perks (938 Millwood Road, $2.6 million;

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Debbie Kent, Cottage Street Realty, 571-249-4757).

And it isn’t just single-family homes promoting the new Metro line. Prime condos are doing it too, such as a two-bedroom, two-bath corner unit in the high-end building on Reston’s Town Center Plaza (12025 New Dominion Pkwy. 508, $735,000; Brian Lester, Keller Williams Realty, 703-626-6759).

But the place to really keep an eye on is Herndon. Yes, Herndon. The Silver Line won’t open there for a few more years, but buyers and sellers are already adapting to its future impact. In years past, the town wasn’t exactly known for seven-figure asking prices, but now they’re becoming more and more common. One example is a six-bedroom, five-bath Colonial on half an acre of land (2702 Robaleed Way, $1 million; Sarah Reynolds, Keller Williams Chantilly Ventures, 703-297-4251).

Public transportation is so vital to the Washington area that new options will always increase property values—and with the Silver Line, it won’t take long to see the payoff. “The consensus from colleagues is that this spring is not going to be a normal spring,” says McCarthy. “For Herndon, Tysons Corner, Reston—they’re all going to see much more than just the natural spring surge, because of the Metro.” cf

from top:

The two-story ceilings of this 10,000-squarefoot Great Falls residence provide for spacious living, and the home’s expansive windows offer views of the surrounding woodland; a glass-enclosed two-bedroom penthouse overlooks Reston’s Town Center Plaza with easy access to the new Silver Line.

1622 14TH STREET NW 202.588.5500

haute property real estate roundtable Georgetown (left) is a good choice for buyers looking to make a smart investment. below, from top: Realtors Hans Wydler, Monica Boyd, and Kimberly Casey.

Real Estate on the Rise Recently DC has come into the spotlight as one of the most expensive places to live in the country, with some of the priciest real estate. We caught up with three renowned local realtors—Long & Foster’s Hans Wydler, Coldwell Banker’s Monica Boyd, and Washington Fine Properties’ Kimberly Casey—for advice on how buyers can still get the most out of the market.

Washington real estate avoided a drastic dip during the recession, and in recent years, it has boomed. Why do you think that is?

Hans Wydler: Government growth is a huge part of the real estate boom and it contributes to why the DC area is “recession proof.”

Monica Boyd: I also believe that DC owes its economic boom to its young— and young at heart—

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population that values urban living, quality businesses and restaurants, and an environmentally friendly lifestyle, like the city’s bike-sharing stations and dedicated bike lanes.

What neighborhoods do you recommend during a boom?

Kimberly Casey: Buy the location where people want to be—always a smart investment even when the market dips. Georgetown and Logan Circle will always be desired.

HW: Look for local catalysts when choosing a “hot” neighborhood— changes that can increase or decrease the value of the property faster than the general market. Is there a Metro station opening or a new commercial development moving in? Is a major employer leaving? Smart investors identify the positive catalysts and limit their search to nearby properties.

Is now a good time to buy or to

sell? What about investment properties?

HW: We are further into a real estate boom, so deals and steals are nearly all gone. However, for buyers buying with enough time to stay in the house and ride out the investment, it’s always a good time to invest.

MB: Long-term real estate values have only gone up, and the Washington Business Journal recently predicted a very sizable increase in DC residential values over the next four years.

Which is the better buy today: condos or single-family homes?

HW: There are pros and cons to both. Single-family homes closer to the city tend to offer a great investment, as they are usually lower on the supply side. You’ll often see many condo communities being developed, resulting in high volume and perhaps not enough demand, which will lower the value. But as a

landlord, with a single-family home, there tends to be much more maintenance required.

What trends should buyers invest in or steer clear of?

HW: The number of close-in homes inside DC proper or in the first tier of suburbs—Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Arlington, Alexandria, etc.—hasn’t changed that much, so we suspect this will be the strongest part of the market in the foreseeable future.

Homes with great flow, great light, and flexible floor plans tend to retain value over time.

MB: Buyers today want the same things that buyers have always wanted: well-designed kitchens and bathrooms, good landscaping, and off-street parking. Hans Wydler, 301-986-6405; hans@wydlerbrothers.com; Monica Boyd, 202-321-5055; mboyd@cbmove.com; Kimberly Casey, 202-361-3228; kimberly. casey@wfp.com CF

photography by shutterstock.com (georgetown)

Washington is noW the most expensive place in the country to live. top brokers reveal hoW to get the most out of paying a premium. by amy moeller

“VERY FUNNY, VERY BRILLIANT, VERY CHILLING” —The New York Times

GW LISNER PRESENTS

& JANUARY 30 | 8PM 20 YEARS OF FREEDOM: HUGH MASEKELA & VUSI MAHLASELA Co-presented with Washington Performing Arts

THE TONY AWARD-WINNING PLAY BY TOM STOPPARD DIRECTED BY AARON POSNER

FEBRUARY 22

MULATU ASTATKE MARCH 6 ZAKIR HUSSAIN Celtic Connections Co-presented with Washington Performing Arts

GILBERTO GIL APRIL 24 LILA DOWNS MAY 1

MARCH 17

/GWLISNER

@GWLISNER

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JOIN US for an evening celebrating America’s wounded warriors and military families. Proceeds raised at the Heroes Gala will fund fights in 2015.

HONORING Community Impact Award Delta Air Lines

Corporate Partner Award Lockheed Martin

Hero Award Corporal Ryan Wightman, United States Marine Corps

FEATURING Saturday, April 11 · 6:30 PM Te Ritz Carlton, Washington, D.C.

www.LukesWings.org

Mistress of Ceremonies Shannon Bream, Fox News

Special Musical Guest Staf Sergeant Nathan Fair, United States Army

INVITED

Sue Anderson and Justice Sonia Sotomayor

A special performance

by TWB members.

NOCHE DE PASIÓN: THE TANGO SOIRÉE

Daniel Roberge, Maki Onuki, Nardia Boodoo, and Andile Ndlovu

Michael and Susan Pillsbury

TWB’s Miguel Anaya

MEMBERS OF THE Washington Ballet’s

Women’s Committee, Latino Dance Fund Host Committee, and Jeté Society hosted the inaugural Noche de Pasión: The Tango Soirée on November 8 at the Organization of American States.

Benefiting TWB’s programs and the Latino Dance Fund, the event showcased signature Evita Champagne cocktails and an exclusive performance by the Ballet.

Jennifer Harlow, Patricia Field, and Pari Bradlee

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Tamas Krizsa and Julio Bocca

Stacey Lubin, Elizabeth Sizer, and Jamie Dorros

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY BROWN/IMIJINATION

Amb. Cecilia Nahon, Amb. Nilda Garre, and Septime Webre

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Celebrate the Blossoms in Style AND SUPPORT THE FESTIVAL!

PART Y HOSTED BY

MARCH 19, 2015 7 PM

, HURRY ETS K C I T D LIMITE E AR BLE! AVAIL A

RONALD REAGAN BUILDING AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTER

Wear your fnest “Pink Tie” cocktail attire and enjoy a fabulous evening flled with delicious cuisine, cocktails, live music, dancing, and silent auction.

TICKETS | $225 per person THE CHERRY PICKS EXPERIENCE | $300 per person Includes access to a special restaurant tasting and lounge.

TO PURCHASE | Visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/pinktie, call 202.661.7567.

PINK TIE PARTY HOST COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Montina Anderson Davis & Dwayne K. Davis Tom Weirich

SUPPORTED BY

INVITED

Sean Amini and Ken Loh Gianluca Mele, Luigi Lannutti, and Karen Hoefener

CALLIGARIS GRAND OPENING

Giovanna Casagrande and Chiara Rich

Stefano Uliana and Mike Cao

Alessandro Calligaris chats with Meredith Merrill, Elizabeth Thorp, and Sean Amini.

NEW TO THE Georgetown design scene, contemporary Italian furniture brand Calligaris celebrated the opening of its new M Street NW location with an in-store cocktail reception. In attendance at the fĂŞte was president of the family company, Alessandro Calligaris.

Fiorenza Togna and Amanda Embry

Sheryl WuDunn and Maro Chermayeff

Luis C.deBaca

Debbie Winsor and Cynthia Bolton

A PATH APPEARS

INDEPENDENT TELEVISION SERVICE, Meridian

International Center, and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting hosted an intimate celebration on January 13 for the book-turnedfilm A Path Appears. In attendance at Meridian House to discuss the project were author Sheryl WuDunn, executive producer and director Maro Chermayeff, and Ashley Judd.

Candace Ourisman and Debra Lindsay

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Amb. Stuart Holliday

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOY ASICO (CALLIGARIS GRAND OPENING); TONY BROWN ( A PATH APPEARS) OPPOSITE PAGE: PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY BROWN/IMIJINATION PHOTOGRAPHY (WASHINGTON WINTER SHOW)

Gwen Holliday and Ashley Judd

Antiques and fine art were on display during the 2015 show.

Susan Dowhower, Denise Prince, and Piper Gould

Heather Farrell with Kim and Maria Greissing

Johnathan Willen and Wayne Smith with the America’s Cup trophy.

Helen Sessions, Malcolm Matheson, Helen Curtain, and Helen Bragg Cleary

Tim and Halsey Buick Ed and Nell Shapiro

Betsy Scott Kleeblatt, Gail Matheson, Debra Dunning, and Jacqueline Mars Blair Bourne and Collette Bruce

WASHINGTON WINTER SHOW

RETURNING TO THE Katzen Art Center at American University, the

Washington Winter Show celebrated its 60th anniversary with a “Ports of Call” weekend of antique and fine art exhibits, events, and presentations.

Exhibitors, sponsors, and supporters got a first peek at the selection during the annual Preview Night on January 8. The show continued its festivities on January 10 with a Saturday Soirée featuring live calypso music and signature cocktails from Mount Gay rum. Guests could meander through the displays and exhibitions, including “Vessels of Victory,” which showcased the America’s Cup trophy won by the 2013 Oracle Team USA. The weekend-long event benefited the Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys, St. John’s Community Services, and THEARC. Kathleen and George Alatoginis

Mary Ritchey and Sarah Cannova

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freely speaking spring 2015

My Washington What I love about Washington, DC, is the art scene. When it comes to art galleries, the District offers an embarrassment of riches, including Corcoran, Phillips Collection, Hirshhorn Museum, National Museum of Women in the Arts, Long View Gallery, and National Gallery of Art. The Smithsonian Institution alone has enough museums to satisfy the residents of any international city, with wonderful collections at the National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, and the National Museum of the American Indian. As a painter, these places inspire me.

At home I have a very small art studio space where I am passionate about painting. I work with acrylic, oils, watercolors, pastels, Indian ink, and charcoal. I especially enjoy mixing different media together to develop a variety of textures. I find these artistic expressions relaxing and exciting at the same time. My style of painting is abstract, contemporary, and modern. The less sense it makes, the more I like it.

It’s sort of like DC itself: I love that the city is so alive. At any given moment, just walking down the street, there are people unknowingly bringing life to the city. Every Washingtonian has his or her personal style and unconsciously makes every sidewalk in this town a gallery or runway admired by others. Their eagerness and zest to get things done bring the city to life. I also really enjoy the multicultural element of DC, and the colorfulness that the mixed cultures bring.

I’m also a collector of art, and my home is full of paintings, lithographs, etchings, photography, blown glass, and sculptures from my visits with First Lady Michelle Obama to Africa, Haiti, Mexico, China, Indonesia, Italy, India, South America, and, of course, states across the nation. I often share photos of things that inspire me on Instagram (@carlraymakeupartist). But I don’t necessarily have to travel to be exposed to a wide variety of artistic expression: Life in DC inspires me to be the artist I am today. I love this metropolis and its people. This city itself is a canvas, and the people of DC use their individual experiences to paint a masterpiece. cf

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illustration by daniel o’leary

spring isn’t just for cherry blossoms: for CARL RAY, makeup artist to first lady michelle obama, dc comes to life with culture and its colorful residents.

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