Washington Life Magazine - April 2015

White House Correspondents JIM ACOSTA, CHRIS JANSING, MIKE VIQUEIRA, JULIET EILPERIN, CHRISTI PARSONS & ED HENRY

TRAVEL RICHARD BRANSON’S DREAMLINER AND JAMES MADISON’S MONTPELIER

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FASHION SEQUINS, FRINGE AND LACE

PA RT I PA ES! RT PA IE RT S! IE S!

SPORTS REDSKINS RYAN KERRIGAN & DARREL YOUNG

THE 2015 A-LIST WASHINGTON’S MOST INVITED GUESTS

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38 '328)287 APRIL 2015 EDITOR'S LETTER

SPECIAL FEATURES THE A-LIST ...................................................

THE BREAKFAST CLUB With White House Correspondents Jim Acosta, Chris Jansing, Mike Viqueira, Christi Parsons, Juliet Eilperin and Ed Henry ................................

BOOK TALK With April Ryan .......................

NERD PROM With Patrick Gavin ...................

FYIDC INSIDER'S GUIDE ....................................

WHO'S NEXT Anastasia Dellaccio ...........................................

THE DISH Chad Sparrow, Justin Sparrow, Teddy Kim and Larry Walston's Mason Social..............

SOCIAL CALENDAR ...............................

Voto Latino celebration with Rosario Dawson and Maria Teresa Kumar ..................

Voto Latino 10th Anniversary .................................

LIFESTYLES FASHION EDITORIAL Stunning Squatter ...........

TREND REPORT Neutral Gear..........................

TREND REPORT Hippie Chic ...........................

TRAVEL A Visit to James and Dolley Madison's Virginia home, Montpelier ................

TRAVEL Richard Branson and Virgin Atlantic's

EMBASSY ROW Royal visits from former king Juan Carlos and Prince Charles and Camilla ...............

Reception for U.S.-Cuba Policy Change .....................

UNCF Mayor's Masked Ball..................................

The Washington Chorus Argentine Carnaval ...............

OVER THE MOON

Boeing 787 Dreamliner Service ................................

Middleburg Spring Races with the Wiley family ............

DINE AND DISH Post Game Dishing

Chance for Life 10th Anniversary .............................

with Redskins Ryan Kerrigan and DarrelYoung ..........

SOME Jr. Gala..................................................

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Heroes Curing Childhood Gala .............................

Catholic Charities and Prevent Cancer .......................

POLLYWOOD Re-opening of French Embassy Residence....................

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HOLLYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC

NPR Weekend in Washington ...............................

Parties, Parties, Parties ............................................

WASHINGTON SOCIAL DIARY AROUND TOWN Report from Red Cross Ball

HOME LIFE

in Palm Beach ....................................................

INSIDE HOMES

International Red Cross Ball in Palm Beach ................

Chris and Courtney Cox .................................

Mariinsky Orchestra Party in Palm Beach ...................

OPEN HOUSE Architectural Array .......................

REAL ESTATE NEWS Greek,Victorian and

Teach for America Gala ........................................

INNOVATORS AND DISRUPTORS

THEARC's Wacky and Whimsical Tea ..................

Opower president Alex Laskey .............................

Prevent Cancer Gala ...........................................

Federal- Oh My!..................................................

MY WASHINGTON Eric Schaeffer, co-founder and artistic director of Signature Theatre .........

ON THE COVER (Back Row L to R) White House Correspondents Jim Acosta, Chris Jansing, Mike Viqueira and Juliet Eilperin (Front Row): Christi Parsons and Ed Henry (Photographed on location at the top of the Hay Adams Hotel by Tony Powell); TOP FROM LEFT: Ed Henry and Chris Jansing photographed for the "Breakfast Club" feature (Photo by Tony Powell); Zoe Wolin, Nicole Elkon and Oliver Wolin at "THEARC's Wacky and Whimsical Tea" (Photo by Tony Powell);"Stunning Squatter" fashion editorial (Photo by Yassine El Mansouri. See inside for full crew credits. Shopping credits: BALENCIAGA dress ($1,325), Hu’s Wear, 2906 M St., NW, 202-342-2020; VALENTINO rockstud slingback heels ($1,095) and ST LAURENT serpent metal fringed bag ($1,750), Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St., NW, 202-342-0202; jewelry, model’s own); ABOVE: Miu Miu Round-frame acetate sunglasses ($390), net-a-porter.com

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T H E I N S I D E R’S G U I D E TO P OW E R , P H I L A N T H R O PY, A N D SO C I E T Y S I N C E 1 9 9 1

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Nancy Reynolds Bagley SENIOR EDITORS

Kevin Chaffee Virginia Coyne MANAGING EDITOR

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Laura Wainman ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Erica Moody COLUMNISTS AND CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Janet Donovan, Roland Flamini, Patrick McCoy,Vicky Moon, Stacey Grazier Pfarr and Donna Shor ART DIRECTOR

Matt Rippetoe PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Tony Powell CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joseph Allen,Tony Brown, Ben Droz, Alfredo Flores Yassine el Mansouri,Vithaya Phongsavan, Kyle Samperton and Jay Snap

PUBLISHER & CEO

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Vicki Bagley CREATIVE DIRECTOR EMERITUS (*)

J.C. Suarès CHAIRMAN, EXECUTIVE BOARD

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

editor’s letter

Live from the White House!

T

he White House Correspondents’ No matter where you wind up, Association dinner is the biggest catch up this month on the biggest party of year, and the festivities society functions with our coverage of surrounding it have become our the UNCF’s inaugural Mayor’s Masked city’s trademark social event. But have Ball,Voto Latino’s 10th anniversary, the celebrities overshadowed the THEARC’s always adorable Wacky and journalists and turned the weekend in Whimsical Tea and Prevent Cancer’s to a spectacle? That’s former Politico Spring Gala. As we head into the busiest reporter Patrick Gavin’s take in his social season of the year, we know documentary “Nerd Prom,” released your calendars are already jam-packed this month. On a special opinion page, but leave a little room in April for the Gavin tells us why he made the movie following WL-sponsored events: jeweler and how his feelings about the event Alexis Bittar’s grand opening party at evolved as he filmed it.

CityCenterDC, MS Women on the The White House correspondents, Move’s luncheon, Catholic Charities’ for their part, argue the dinner is gala, Refugees International’s Anniversary meant to be both serious AND fun. dinner, the March of Dimes Gourmet Despite their frantic schedules, we Gala and CharityWorks’ 100 Point Vintage managed to sit down for breakfast Wine Dinner. with six of them, including Chris Finally, Washington’s closely knit Photo by Tony Powell Jansing of NBC and Ed Henry of non-profit community lost two of its rival network Fox News Channel, at the top of The Hay-Adams Hotel giants this past month, and we would be remiss if we did not overlooking the White House. They demonstrated mutual respect and note their passing. We remember with fondness the founding saw mostly eye-to-eye on everything from how much access they have conductor of the Choral Arts Society of Washington, Norman to the President to how they feel about YouTube vloggers getting oneScribner, who just two years ago passed his baton to Maestro on-one interviews with Mr. Obama. Separately, we talked to America Scott Tucker after 47 years at the helm, and we remember John Urban Radio Network’s White House reporter April Ryan about her Steinbruck - affectionately known as “Pastor John” - the senior new book, “The Presidency in Black and White,” which addresses how pastor of Luther Place Memorial Church whose dedicated the three presidents she has covered – Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and leadership and unwavering commitment to the biblical Barack Obama – have dealt with the issue of race. concepts of “welcome for the stranger” gave birth to N Street Inside, you’ll also find out who made the cut on our annual A-List, Village, now a nationally-recognized women’s homeless shelter a compilation of Washington’s biggest big-wigs. It’s a list that begins which is the pride of the city - and its most powerful leaders with President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama and also in government and business who support it. includes five prominent Washingtonians who we had the privilege of photographing: French Ambassador Gérard Araud, media mogul Robert Albritton and dermatologist Elena Albritton and Dr. Ryuji Ueno and Dr. Sachiki Kuno, co-founders of Sucampo Pharmaceuticals.

If you’re a sports fan, our new “Dine and Dish” segment debuts this month, as our resident sports aficionado, Laura Wainman, dishes with Redskins linebacker Ryan Kerrigan and fullback Darrel Young at Nancy R. Bagley their trailing facility in Ashburn. Over a three-course meal prepared by Editor in Chief Chef Jon Mathieson, they discuss the offseason, the guys’ charity work Readers wishing to contact Nancy Bagley can email her and what it will take to once again make the Redskins a force to be at nbagley@washingtonlife.com reckoned with.

Got a hankering for a getaway? Whether you’re up for a weekend trip to nearby Montpelier, or a transatlantic flight to London aboard Virgin’s new Dreamliner, we’ve got the inside scoop for you.

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FYIDC The Insider’s Guide to Washington

BY ERICA MOODY

DC DESIGN HOUSE

FLEMISH EXPRESSIONISM

Washington’s top designers are on display at the 8th annual DC Design House, a popular design attraction and fundraiser for Children’s National Health System that has raised more than $1.2 million since it was founded. Admire the work of 24 design firms in 28 spaces at a new country estate in McLean built by Artisan Builders and designed by Harrison Design.The 8,869-square-foot dwelling is a replica of an old American farmhouse yet has a modern flare. 956 Mackall Farms Lane, McLean, Va. Preview Day is April 11. Open to the public April 12 through May 10.Visit www.dcdesignhouse.com for details.

Expand your knowledge of European art history at the Kreeger Museum’s new exhibition exploring the background of Flemish expressionist painting, sculpture and graphic arts. “Flemish Expressionism: A Modernist Vision” runs through May 15. Don’t miss the related program, the art conversation “Flemish Expressionism in Context” by exhibition curator David Gariff on April 16, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free to members.

Visit www.kreegermuseum.org for details.

AMERICAN ARTISTRY

Don’t miss the annual juried show and sale of some of the finest sculptural objects and design in the U.S. The Smithsonian Craft Show brings 121 craft artists carefully selected in the “Quest for the Best” work in their fields.View one-of-a-kind pieces in 12 unique categories, including ceramics, decorative fiber, furniture, jewelry and mixed media.

Mingle with the artists at a preview night benefit featuring honorary chairman and visionary art award recipient Toots Zynsky. National Building Museum, 401 F St., N.W., April 23-26, April 22 Preview Night, smithsoniancraftshow.org.

THE LINCOLN TRIBUTE

REMEMBERING A PRESIDENT Commemorate the life of President Abraham Lincoln at the very site of his assassination 150 years ago. “The Lincoln Tribute” at Ford’s Theatre is a two-day, round-the-clock event with panel discussions, ranger talks and historians reading firstperson accounts about the end of the Civil War and Lincoln’s legacy. Ford’s Theatre’s campus will be open to the public throughout the night. A wreath-laying ceremony will mark Lincoln’s death on April 15 at exactly 7:22 a.m. 511 Tenth St., NW, April 14-15,Visit www.fords.org for tickets.

GLOBAL CITIZEN EARTH DAY CONCERT

MUSIC ON THE MALL Get inspired to protect our planet with the Earth Day Network and Global Poverty Project as it hosts the annual Global Citizen concert on the 45th anniversary of Earth Day. With a lineup that includes Usher, No Doubt, My Morning Jacket, Mary J. Blige, Train and Fall Out Boy, we recommend getting to the National Mall early. Soledad O’Brien and will. i.am will host, with special guest appearances by Common and D’banj. Free event, April 18, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m, www.globalcitizen.org.

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SEVEN: THE PLAY

ACTIVIST THEATRE Hear real-life stories of seven women’s rights activists from Nigeria, Afghanistan, Guatemala, Pakistan, Northern Ireland and Cambodia in a unique performance and touring concept created by Swedish producer Hedda Krausz Sjogren and in collaboration with Vital Voices Global Partnership. Since launching in 2007, the tour has been performed in 23 countries in 20 languages, with readers including Meryl Streep. Two performances will be staged at George Washington University’s Dorothy Betts Marvin Theatre on April 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m. with discussions to follow. Get in touch on Twitter @SevenHedda or visit globalwomensinstitute.gwu.edu.

GEORGETOWN FRENCH MARKET

SPRING SHOPPING

Experience the flavor of France at the Georgetown French Market, one of Washington’s favorite spring shopping events. The annual open-air market in Georgetown’s picturesque Book Hill neighborhood offers up to 75 percent off at sidewalk sales, shops and boutiques. Restaurants will offer French merguez sausages and crepes and other sweet and savory. treats. Bring the kids for the mimes, face painting, live music and more. Free admission, April 24-25, www.georgetowndc. com/events/frenchmarket.

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P H OTO C RE D I T ART I SA N B U I L D E R S/ H A RR I SO N D E S I GN ; S M I T H SO N I A N C RA F T S H OW P H OTO BY A RTI ST B EN N ETT B EA N S MI T H SO N I AN C RAF T S H OW. T I T L E : M AST E R # 16 55 – Q U I N T O N BA S E; G LO BA L C I T I Z E N P H OTO BY TH EO WA R G O/G ETTY A L C I T I Z E N F E ST I VA L ; F L E M I S H E X P R E S S I O N I S M P H OTO C O U RT E SY O F K R E E G E R M U S E U M , G U STAV E D E S M E T, YO U N G ON CARDBOARD; GEORGETOWN FRENCH MARKET PHOTO BY SAM KITTNER/COURTE SY GEORGETOWN BID

SMITHSONIAN CRAFT SHOW

MODERNIST ART

D C D E S I G N H O US E CO URT E SY O F T H E I M AG E S FO R GLO B FARMER, 1928 OIL

COUNTRY LIVING

FYIDC | WHO’S NEXT

WHO’S NEXT Anastasia Dellaccio talks Giving Tuesday, Earth Day and Dolci Gelati.

BY ERICA MOODY

S

he’s a petite firebrand who’s played key outreach roles on special inititaives such as the International Day of Happiness and Giving Tuesday, the United Nations Foundation’s charitable answer to Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

In March, Anastasia Dellacio, 34, was honored by the Global Connections for Women Foundation for her work in community development and advocacy for women.

She is also co-owner, along with her husband, of artisan gelato company Dolci Gelati.

AND YOU ARE INVOLVED WITH THE BIG EARTH DAY FESTIVAL ON THE MALL? Yes, the Earth Day Global Citizen Festival on the National Mall is going to bring thousands to the Mall for a purpose.

It’s part of the new set of sustainable development goals by the U.N., a pathway for the next fifteen years to eliminate poverty, create more sustainability and create a better world, so this concert is going to rally people around the new global goals. There are certain things in the world that really bring people together and know no boundaries. No matter where you are in the world, gelato brings happiness,

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YOU SEEM TO LOVE WASHINGTON. WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE CITY THAT YOU’RE DRAWN TO? I’m definitely a Washingtonian through and through. I love this city. It seems to me that everyone you meet here has such a deep sense of purpose. Even the businesses are connected to a cause. At Dolci Gelati, we have a ton of events where we give gelato donations. I’m a true believer that as a small business in the city, we might not be a platinum sponsor, but we can certainly give back in our own way.

(Photo by Tony Powell)

and music brings people together, so why not bring people together around music for a good purpose as well.

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS DINNER WEEK? We [The U.N. Foundation] are getting ready for our third year of the Global Beat, which is during the week of the dinner. Of all the parties happening, ours is the premier one that focuses on celebrating foreign correspondents. Normally foreign correspondents aren’t necessarily the ones who get noticed at all, but this year is different because not only are they making the news, they’ve been part of the news. We’ve also confirmed

YOU RECENTLY OPENED A DOLCI GELATI IN SHAW. WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE BUSINESS? We are going to have a really big grand opening bash on May 5. It’ll be a way to bring the city to us and show everyone that it’s spring and time to eat gelato! Our gelato is from homemade Italian recipes that have been in my husband’s family since the 1920s. We’re always getting new flavors and we love to crowdsource them. We love when people Tweet and Facebook us with flavors they want to see. We now have fresh fruit sundaes, a popsicle dip station and new summer flavors like a melon mint, along with our top-selling flavors like salted caramel and toasted coconut. Also, we are franchising our store to our partner Wahoo Foods from the Nats stadium so a Dolci Gelati will open early June in Alexandria if everything goes well!

DO YOU EVER TAKE A VACATION? I’m actually going to Vegas for my birthday!

We’re doing a girls’ weekend.

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M A K E U P BY E M I LY J OY F R O M D I ST R I C T D O L L H O U S E

YOU WORKED ON LAUNCHING GIVING TUESDAY. DID THE U.N. FOUNDATION COME UP WITH THIS CONCEPT? We launched it with the 92nd Street Y. I was brought on to help strategize and launch it in 2012 and I’ve been serving as a spokesperson for Giving Tuesday and helping to run all the communicationså ever since. Last year we had around 24,000 partners around the world join. Everyone, from Donald Rumsfeld to Pharell, all banded together.

Alfre Woodard, which we’re really excited about.

FYIDC | THE DISH

FRESH FROM THE FARM Four childhood friends bring farm-to-table restaurant Mason Social to Alexandria’s up-and-coming Parker-Gray neighborhood.

B Y L A U R A WA I N M A N | P H OTO S B Y TO N Y B R O W N

by Thomas Mason, George Mason’s grandson and a mayor of Alexandria, D.C. (now Virginia). A large digital art mural in the front bar area depicts images sourced from the Alexandria Library of the city being built. The back bar features milk crates from the Belle Pre Bottling Company, which operated across the street in Mason’s era and the coat rack is made from railroad ties from the O&A Railroad.

“This is our hometown and we are proud of it,” Justin says. “We want to show it off and give our guests a connection to the history of the land where they are eating.”

The use of fresh ingredients and a farm-to-table concept was a key part of that connection. The owners say it Justin Sparrow, Teddy Kim, Larry Walston and Chad Sparrow subconsciously gives guests an idea of e’ve all heard that the best relationships stem from what the area would have been like when it was farmland. Ingredients friendships. Apparently, the same is true for restaurant are sourced as often as possible from local purveyors, including seafood partnerships. For the four co-owners of newly opened from Virginia-based Dragon Creek, beef from Roseda Farm, produce Mason Social in Alexandria, the process of opening their restaurant from PathValley Co-op and duck from Jurgielwicz. from the moment they secured the land to the day the doors opened After being open for about a month, Mason Social has been in took about a year. However, the back story spans several decades. high demand. Friday and Saturday night wait times have been regularly All four partners grew up in the area. Brothers Chad and Justin quoted at upwards of two hours. Guests waiting at the bar are greeted Sparrow met Teddy Kim in middle school with Larry Walston joining with a choice of six cocktails, airing on the sweeter side, and a beer the threesome eight years ago when he and Chad started a job on the list including such local favorites as Port City, DC Brau, Mad Fox, 3 same day; they ended up leaving on the same day to start a construction Stars and Flying Dog. Chad, who has a culinary background, urges company with Justin. The men had been in discussions for years about customers not to miss the Marrow Burger, Maryland Rockfish served how to break into the restaurant business. When Chad and Larry drove with a fennel and winter citrus salad or the bacon-wrapped chicken by the current site of Mason Social one day and saw a handwritten “for sandwich (on the lunch menu only). sale” sign in the window, they decided that would be their spot.

While the owners maintain “We knew the Parker-Gray neighborhood well and watched it grow a presence in the restaurant and really develop in the last few years,” Teddy says. “Yet there were no every night, they have handed restaurants for the locals.We would watch people get off the Metro and just the day-to-day operations over go home because they didn’t have food options in their neighborhood.” to their staff. Their business After beating out 180 other restaurateurs interested in the property, philosophy, Chad says, is to several with multiple restaurant ventures on their resumes, the four first- “hire people smarter than time owners created a space that pays homage to the area they love in us, put them in positions to everything from the decor to the menu. Even the name is historically succeed and then let them based, as the ground Mason Social sits on used to be farmland owned run the ship.”

Marrow Burger with Mason Punch.

W

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FYIDC | SOCIAL CALENDAR

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APRIL HE LEN HAYES AWARDS

The 31st annual Helen Hayes Awards will gather theatrical producers and fans to celebrate excellence across Washington stages, in categories spanning sound, lighting, costumes and outstanding performers. The Lincoln Theatre; 8 p.m.; black tie; $100; sponsorships start at $500; contact Brad Watkins,202-337-4572, hhayes@theatrewashington.org.

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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WOMEN IN THE ARTS SPRING GALA The spring gala brings together patrons, members and friends to celebrate the museum’s groundbreaking exhibition, “Picturing Mary: Women, Mother, Idea.”National Museum of Women in the Arts, Great Hall; 6:30 p.m.; black-tie; $650; sponsorships start at $10,000; contact Amy Mannarino, 202-783-7373, amannarino@nmwa.org.

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MS WOMEN ON THE MOVE LUNCHEON The MS Women on the Move luncheon is designed to bring men and women together in the movement towards discovering a cure for Multiple Sclerosis. Washington Marriot Wardman Park; 12 p.m.; business attire; $125; sponsorships start at $3,000; contact Daniella Thompson, 202-375-5632; womenonthemovedc@nmss.org.

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GREAT LADIES LUNCHEON AND

FASHION SHOW The Alzheimer Drug Discovery Foundation will present a science symposium on Alzheimer’s risks facing women, a runway show featuring Akris and a luncheon hosted

by Leonard A. Lauder and Elise and Marc Lefkowitz. Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C.; 12 p.m.; Business attire; $350; sponsorships start at $3,500; contact Kerri Larkin, 240-497-5318, kerri_larkin@s5a.com.

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BACHELORS AND SPINSTERS BALL Mingle with Washington’s most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes while enjoying drinks, dancing and an early breakfast during this annual ball that remains a staple of Washington’s spring social calendar. City Tavern Club; 9 p.m.; black-tie; by invitation only contact; www.bachelorsandspinsters.com.

22 Kellie Romer, Jill Hodgevs, Carrie Marriott and Amy Baier at MS Women on the Move Luncheon (Photo by Tony Powell)

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SASHA BRUCE

YOUTHWORK’S TH ANNIVERSARY Enjoy a cocktail and dessert reception, performances and music by DJ Ben Chang and an award presentation honoring Ann Dibble Jordan. Howard

Theatre; 6:30 p.m; cocktail attire; $500; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Ariel Metzger, 202636-8745, ariel@campbellpeachey.com

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TRUST FOR THE NATIONAL

MALL BENEFIT LUNCHEON Take in breathtaking views of the reflecting pool and monuments from the spacious 38-acre grounds of the Constitution Gardens at the 8th annual luncheon to raise awareness and support of the rehabilitation of the National Mall. Constitution Gardens on the Grounds of the National Mall; 11:30 a.m. ;$500; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Kate Gordon, 202-407-9420, kgordan@nationalmall.org.

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES GALA Join Tom and Karen Natelli at a cocktail reception, dinner and dancing to support Catholic Charities’ mission fostering a spirit of community through service. Marriot Wardman Park; 8:30 p.m.; black-tie; $500; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Erik Salmi, 202-772-4390, Erik.Salmi@CatholicCharitiesDC.org.

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CHARITYWORKS POINT VINTAGE WINE DINNER The Charity Works team will stick to their winning formula to produce this annual mustattend event. It’s a good cause (Best Buddies Yellow Ribbon Fund) with eight rare wines, an intimate setting and food prepared by top area chefs. Lynn and Ted Leonis residence, Potomac, Md.; 6 p.m.; $7,000; sponsorships start at $12,000; contact Diana Villarreal, 703-2860758, charityworks@aol.com.

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REFUGEES INTERNATIONAL ANNIVERSARY DINNER Matt Dillon returns as master of ceremonies of this seated dinner honoring global humanitarians. Hosted by Spanish Amb. Ramon GilCasares and Frederica and George Valanos.

Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium; 6:15 p.m.; black-

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tie; $400; sponsorships start at $1,250; contact 202-828-0110, ri@refugeesinternational.org.

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March of Dimes Gourmet Gala Members of Congress serve their constituents on a daily basis, but for one night a year they are literally serving up tastes of their favorite culinary treats to guests attending this fundraising dinner which always features a competitive cookoff with senators and congressmen. National Building Museum; 6:30 p.m.; business attire; $1,500; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Tina Cavucci, 571-2572308, ccavucci@marchofdimes.org.

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Youth Orchestra of the Americas Gala Enjoy an evening of music and culture celebrating the Youth Orchestra of the Americas invitation to perform at the Pan American Games in Toronto, with a debut performance by CaribeNostrum and afterdinner entertainment from The Pedrito Martinez Group. Four Seasons; 7 p.m.; colorful cocktail attire; $450; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Paola Tinta, 703-236-1787, ptinta@yoa.org.

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Virginia Gold Cup Join more than 50,000 spectators for the 90th annual running of the Gold Cup steeplechase race, featuring Jack Russell terrier races, six hurdle and timber races, tent and tailgating parties, hat contests and parimutuel betting. Great Meadow in the Plains, Va.; gates open at 10 a.m., first race at 12:30 p.m.; dandy attire; $85; www.vagoldcup.com.

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Ke n nedy Center Spring Gala

Pay tribute to the swing era of the 1930s and ’40s with an elegant dinner on the roof terrace followed by a show featuring Audra McDonald, Terence Blanchard, Paquito D’Rivera, Megan Hilty, The Puppini Sisters and the Paul Taylor Dance Company. Kennedy Center; 5 p.m.; black-tie; $1,000; sponsorships

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UAE Amb. Yousef Al Otaiba, Kay Kendall and Russ Ramsey at the CharityWorks 100 Point Vintage Wine Dinner (Photo by Tony Powell)

start at $5,000; contact 202-416-8338, springgala@kennedy-center.org

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Children’s Ball In the last eight years, this gala has raised more than $19 million to support children and families being treated at the Children’s National Health Systems.

National Building Museum; 7 p.m.; black-tie; $1,000; sponsorships start at $15,000; contact Diana Kurnit, 301-565-8500, dkurnit@childrensnational.org.

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Phillips Collection Gala Join Japanese Amb. Kenichiro Sasae and his wife Nobuko and Mariella and Michael Trager, chairmen of this year’s Japanesethemed gala featuring 10 photographs and three sculptures from the work of Japanese artist Hiroshi Sugimoto. The Phillips Collection; 6 p.m., 9 p.m. after party; black-tie; $1,250; sponsorships start at $15,000; contact Dale Mott, 202-387-2151, dmott@phillipscollection.org.

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WTEF Tennis Ball This year’s annual gala, preceded by a round robin tennis tournament, will honor Alonzo Mourning

| washingtonlife.com

Jr., Katrina Adams and Peter Work with WTEF awards while raising funds to continue supporting WTEF programs and the student athletes they serve. Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.; 6 p.m.; business attire; $500; sponsorships start at $3,000; contact 202-291-9888, wtef@wtef.org.

Save the date WL Sponsored Events

May 9: Susan G. Komen Race

for the Cure

May 9: CityDance Gala May 14: JTCC Gala May 14: Zoofari May 14: PenFed Night of Heroes Gala May 16: Preakness STAKES May 16: Hirshorn’s facing history gala May 20: Embassy Chef Challenge May 29: MÚsica y SueÑos

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Save the Date 30th Annual Tim Russert Congressional Dinner The first Congressional Dinner, held in 1986, was created as an opportunity to recognize both national and local leaders for their continued support of and devotion to the children served by Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington (BGCGW). The event is named in honor of a true advocate of the Clubs, Tim Russert, whose efforts helped to raise awareness and support for the youth of our nation, particularly here in the Greater Washington area. Now in its 30th year, this event continues to be a premier event in Washington, DC and raises vital financial support for one of the area’s most respected youth organizations.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015 - 6:00 pm JW Marriott 1331 Pennsylvania Ave, NW Washington, DC

Master of Ceremonies Luke Russert Correspondent, NBC News

Congressional Dinner Chair David Velazquez Executive Vice President Power Delivery, Pepco Holdings, Inc.

2015 Honorees U.S. Congressman Paul Ryan, Wisconsin’s 1st District Â

John Castellani, President & CEO, PhRMA

 Ayanna Holmes, 2015 BGCGW Youth of the Year

Proudly Sponsored by 2015 Sponsors (as of March 16, 2015)

CAPITOL SPONSOR #' 4BVM $PNQBOZ r (&*$0 SUPPORTING SPONSOR &SJD #JMMJOHT r $BSF'JSTU #MVF$SPTT #MVF4IJFME r $PY $PNNVOJDBUJPOT %FMPJUUF r &EFMNBO 'JOBODJBM 4FSWJDFT r &YFMPO CONTRIBUTING $BQJUBM 0OF r $MBSL $POTUSVDUJPO r %BOBIFS %$ --$ r &OUFSQSJTF )PMEJOHT r &SOTU :PVOH r +BOJF ,JOOFZ $IVDL 3FJGFM r -FYVT -PDLIFFE .BSUJO r #JMM "NZ .PPSF r .PSHBO'SBOLMJO r 4BMJFOU 'FEFSBM r 7PMLTXBHFO PG "NFSJDB *OD SUSTAINING "NHFO 'PVOEBUJPO r "TUFMMBT 64 r $ISJTUJF 4USBUFHJFT --$ r 4IFMMFZ (VJMFZ ,#3 'PVOEBUJPO r 8BTIJOHUPO 8PSLQMBDF PATRON #PHOFU r %FMM 'FEFSBM r /#$ 6OJWFSTBM r 5% #BOL 'PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO PO TQPOTPSTIJQT PS UJDLFU QVSDIBTFT QMFBTF DPOUBDU %BQIOF #FOCPX ECFOCPX!CHDHX PSH PS

And the invitation goes to … those onWashington Life’s annual A-List — the most-highly desired guests in town. >> PORTRAITS BY TONY POWELL

French Ambassador Gerard Araud

French Ambassador Gérard Araud

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pollywood | the a-LIST

President BARACK H. OBAMA and First Lady MICHELLE OBAMA

Vice President JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR. and JILL BIDEN, Professor of English, Northern Virginia Community College H.E. the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia ADEL BIN AHMED AL-JUBEIR and Ms. FARAH AL-JUBEIR

Mr. ROBERT L. ALLBRITTON, Owner and Founder, Capitol News Company, and Dr. ELENA ALLBRITTON, Dermatologist, MedStar Washington Hospital Center H.E. the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, YOUSEF AL-OTAIBA, and Ms. ABEER Al-OTAIBA

H.E. the Ambassador of Kuwait, Sheikh SALEM ABDULLAH AL-JABER AL-SABAH, and Sheikha RIMA AL-SABAH, Goodwill Ambas-

sador, United Nations Refugee Agency H.E. the Ambassador of France GERARD ARAUD Mr. PHILIPPE AUGUIN, Conductor, the Washington Opera Mr. MARTIN BARON, Editor,The Washington Post The Honorable WAYNE BERMAN, Senior Advisor for Global Government Affairs, Blackstone Group, and Ms. LEA BERMAN, Writer and Blogger, “America’s Table” Mr. JEREMY BERNARD, Social Secretary, The White House The Honorable JAMES H. BILLINGTON, Librarian of Congress, and Ms. MARJORIE BILLINGTON

H.E. the Ambassador of Italy CLAUDIO BISOGNIERO and Ms. LAURA DENISE BISOGNIERO

The Honorable ANTONY J. BLINKEN, Deputy Secretary of State, U.S. Department of State, and The Honorable EVAN RYAN, Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State The Honorable JOHN A. BOEHNER, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and Ms. DEBBIE BOEHNER, Realtor, Cleveland, Ohio

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Mr. DAVID G. BRADLEY, Chairman and Owner, Atlantic Media Company, and Ms. KATHERINE BRADLEY, President, CityBridge Foundation The Honorable JOHN O. BRENNAN, Director, Central Intelligence Agency, and Ms. KATHY BRENNAN Associate Justice STEPHEN G. BREYER and Ms. JOANNA BREYER, Pediatric Psychologist, The Dana Farber Cancer Institute Mr. CALVIN CAFRITZ, Principal, Cafritz Enterprises and Chairman, Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, and Ms. JANE LIPTON CAFRITZ, Principal, Cafritz Enterprises and Director, Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation Ms. BUFFY CAFRITZ, Philanthropist The Honorable ASHTON CARTER, Secretary of Defense, and Ms. STEPHANIE CARTER Mr. STEVEN B. CASE, Founder, Revolution LLC and Chairman, Case Foundation, and Ms. JEAN CASE, CEO, Case Foundation The Honorable RICHARD B. CHENEY, former Vice President of the United States, and The Honorable LYNNE CHENEY, Author, Historian and Senior Fellow, American Enterprise Institute The Honorable WILLIAM JEFFERSON (“BILL”) CLINTON, former President of the United States, and The Honorable HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON, former Secretary of State The Honorable THAD COCHRAN, Chairman, U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations Mr. WILLIAM E. (“BILL”) CONWAY, JR., CoFounder, Co-CEO and Managing Director, The Carlyle Group, and Ms. JOANNE CONWAY, Co-Founder, Bedford Falls Foundation The Honorable JOHN CORNYN, Senate Majority Whip, and Ms. SANDY CORNYN Count JEHAN-CHRISTOPHE DE LA HAYESAINT HILLAIRE, Retired Banker, and Countess DE LA HAYE-SAINT HILLAIRE (CONSTANCE MILSTEIN), Attorney and CoFounder, Ogden CAP Properties

General MARTIN E. DEMPSEY, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Ms. DEANIE DEMPSEY

The Honorable CHRISTOPHER J. DODD, President, Motion Picture Association of America, and Ms. JACKIE CLEGG DODD The Honorable RICHARD J. ( “DICK”) DURBIN, Senate Minority Whip, and LORETTA DURBIN, Founder, Government Affairs Consulting LLC Mr. and ROBERT S. DUVALL, Actor, and Ms. LUCIANA PEDRAZZA DUVALL, Co-Founder, The Robert Duvall Children’s Fund The Honorable DIANNE FEINSTEIN, U.S. Senate, and Mr. RICHARD BLUM, Chairman and President, Blum Capital Miss RENEE FLEMING, soprano, and Mr. TIMOTHY JESSELL,Attorney, Greenberg Traurig The Honorable AL FRANKEN, U.S. Senate, and Ms. FRANNIE FRANKEN Associate Justice RUTH BADER GINSBURG Mr. DONALD E. GRAHAM, CEO and Chairman, Graham Holdings Company, and Ms. AMANDA BENNETT, Journalist The Honorable LINDSEY GRAHAM, U.S. Senate Mr. JOHN S. HENDRICKS, Founder, Discovery Communications, and Ms. MAUREEN HENDRICKS, Co-founder, John and Maureen Hendricks Charitable Foundation The Honorable STENY H. HOYER, House Minority Whip Ms. VALERIE JARRETT, Senior Advisor to the President The Honorable JEH JOHNSON, Secretary of Homeland Security, and Dr. SUSAN MAUREEN DEMARCO, Dentist and Jewelry Designer.

Mr. VERNON E. JORDAN JR., Senior Counsel, Akin Gump Strauss Hauer and Feld LLP, and Ms. ANN JORDAN, Emeritus Trustee, The Kennedy Center Mr. MICHAEL KAHN, Artistic Director, The Shakespeare Library

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Associate Justice ANTHONY KENNEDY and Ms. MARY KENNEDY The Honorable JOHN F. KERRY, Secretary of State, and Mrs. TERESA HEINZ, Chairman, The Heinz Endowments Mr. JIM YONG KIM, President, The World Bank, and Dr. YOUNSOOK LIM, Pediatrician, Children’s Hospital, Boston, Mass.

Mrs. CHRISTINE LAGARDE, Managing Director, International Monetary Fund Mr. THEODORE J. (“TED”) LEONSIS, Owner and CEO, Monumental Sports & Entertainment and Ms. LYNN LEONSIS Mr. THEODORE N. (“TED”) LERNER, Managing Principal Owner, Washington Nationals, and Ms. ANNETTE LERNER, Principal Owner, Washington Nationals The Honorable JACOB. J. (“JACK”) LEW, Secretary of the Treasury, and Ms. RUTH SCHWARTZ Mr. J. WILLARD MARRIOTT JR., Chairman and CEO, Marriott International and Ms. DONNA MARRIOTT

Mrs. JACQUELINE BADGER MARS, Philanthropist Mr. CHRISTOPHER MATTHEWS, Host, “Hardball” and “The Chris Matthews Show,” MSNBC, and Ms. KATHLEEN MATTHEWS, Executive Vice President, Global Communications and Public Affairs, Marriott International The Honorable JOHN S. MCCAIN III, U.S. Senator, and Ms. CINDY MCCAIN, Chairman, Hensley & Co.

Robert and Elena Allbritton Her Imperial Majesty Empress FARAH PAHLAVI The Honorable RAND PAUL, U.S. Senate, and Ms. KELLEY PAUL, Writer

Mr. EARL A. (“RUSTY”) POWELL III, Director, The National Gallery of Art, and Ms. NANCY POWELL

The Honorable MITCHELL MCCONNELL, Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, and the Honorable ELAINE LAN CHAO, Distinguished Fellow, The Heritage Foundation

The Honorable NANCY PELOSI, Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, and Mr. PAUL PELOSI, Owner, Financial Leasing Services

Mr. DENIS MCDONOUGH. Chief of Staff, the White House, and Ms. KARI MCDONOUGH

Mr. DAN PFEIFFER, Senior Advisor to the President

The Honorable WILLIAM T. NEWMAN JR., Circuit Court Judge, Arlington County, Va.,and Ms. SHEILA JOHNSON, CEO, Salamander Hotels and Resorts and co-founder, Black Entertainment Television

Mr. JOHN D. PODESTA, Chairman and Counselor, Center for American Progress, and Ms. MARY PODESTA, Attorney

The Honorable HARRY M. REID, Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, and Ms. LANDRA REID

General COLIN L. POWELL, former Secretary of State, and Ms. ALMA POWELL, Cochairman, America’s Promise

The Honorable SUSAN E. RICE, National Security Advisor, and Mr. IAN O. CAMERON, Television Producer

Her Majesty Queen NOOR AL-HUSSEIN

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The Honorable PENNY S. PRITZKER, Secretary of Commerce, and Dr. BRIAN TRAUBERT, Ophthalmologist, Eye Physicians and Surgeons, Chicago, Ill. Ms. SALLY QUINN , Columnist, The Washington Post

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Associate Justice ANTONIN SCALIA and Ms. MAUREEN SCALIA, Crisis Pregnancy Counselor and Pro-Life Advocate, Nurturing Network Rep. STEVE SCALISE, House Majority Whip, and Ms. JENNIFER SCALISE Mr. DAVID J. SKORTON, Secretary, The Smithsonian Institution, and Ms. ROBIN L. DAVISSON, Professor, Cornell University Mr. DANIEL M. SNYDER, owner, The Washington Redskins, and Ms. TANYA SNYDER Associate Justice SONIA SOTOMAYOR Mr. GEORGE C. STEVENS JR., founding director, American Film Institute, and Ms. ELIZABETH (“LIZ”) STEVENS

H.E. the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China CUI TIANKAI and Ms. NEI PEIJUN Mr. CHUCK TODD, Moderator, “Meet the Press,” NBC News, and Ms. KRISTIAN TODD Dr. RYUJI UENO, Co-founder, Sucampo Pharmaceuticals, and Dr. SACHIKO KUNO, Co-founder, Sucampo Pharmaceuticals Dr. Ryuji Ueno and Dr. Sachiko Kuno Chief Justice JOHN G. ROBERTS JR. and Ms. JANE ROBERTS, Partner, Major, Lindsey & Africa

and Mr. PETER ELLEFSON, Trombonist

The Honorable ELIZABETH WARREN, U.S. Senate, and Mr. BRUCE MANN, Professor, Harvard Law School

Mr. FREDERICK J. RYAN, Publisher, The Washington Post, and Ms. GENEVIEVE (“GENNY”) RYAN,Vice Chairman, The National Theatree

H.E. the Ambassador of the United Kingdom SIR PETER WESTMACOTT and

Representative PAUL RYAN, Chairman, House Ways and Means Committee, and Ms. JANNA RYAN

Mr. ROBERT WOODWARD, Associate Editor and Journalist, The Washington Post, and Ms. ELSA WALSH, Journalist

Mr. DAVID RUBENSTEIN, Co-founder, the Carlyle Group, and Ms. ALICE RUBENSTEIN, Founder, Alaska Native Arts Foundation

Mr. ROGER SANT, Chairman Emeritus and Co-founder, The AES Corporation, and Ms. VICKI SANT, President, The Summit Foundation and Chairman, National Gallery of Art

The Honorable JANET L. YELLEN, Chairman, The Federal Reserve System, and Mr. GEORGE AKERLOF, Economist

The Honorable MARCO RUBIO, U.S. Senate, and Ms. JEANETTE DOUSDEBES RUBIO

H.E. the Ambassador of Japan KENICHIRO SASAE and Ms. NOBUKO SASAE, Interpreter

Ms. DEBORAH RUTTER, President, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts,

Mr. B. FRANCIS SAUL II, CEO, Saul Centers, and Ms. PATRICIA SAUL

The Honorable JOHN D. ROCKEFELLER IV, U.S. Senate (Ret’d.) and Ms. SHARON PERCY ROCKEFELLER, CEO, WETA-TV Representative HAL ROGERS, Chairman, House Committee on Appropriations, and Ms. CYNTHIA DOYLE

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Lady (SUSIE) WESTMACOTT

Ms. FRANCESCA ZAMBELLO, Artistic Director, Washington National Opera, and Ms. FAITH E. GAY, Senior Partner, Quinn Emanuel

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French Ambassador Gerard Araud and Ambassador of Monaco Maguy Maccario Doyle

Stuart Holliday, Capricia Marshall and Gwen Holliday

CELEBRATING FRANCE French Ambassador’s Residence | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL VIVE LA FRANCE!: The late winter season’s most eagerly awaited event was a smashing success with 250 very special guests turning out to celebrate the re-opening of the French Embassy Residence after a two-year renovation.

Diplomats, members of Congress, media personalities and a who’s who of the le tout Washington social set were spotted sipping Champagne and nibbling on foïe gras and caviar canapés while admiring the mixture of old and new furniture and objets d’art, many from the Louvre, reconfigured in a dramatically lighter and brighter setting. “The residence is a celebration of the ties that bind France and the U.S.,” French Ambassador Gerard Araud said.

“Its doors have always been open to ... France’s many friends in this country.”

WORKS BY FRENCH ARTISTS ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM

White House Social Secretary Jeremy Bernard

Netherlands Amb. Rudolf Bekink, Gabrielle Bekink and Susan Eisenhower

Lucky Roosevelt and Buffy Cafritz

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Marc Cipullo and Izette Folger

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Parita Shah and Chief of Protocol Peter Selfridge

Bobbie Brewster, Philip Pillsbury and Joan Carl

Juleanna Glover and Christopher Reiter

Patrick O’Connell and Septime Webre

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POLLYWOOD | EMBASSY ROW

Send in the Crowns Visits from once and future kings, plus thought for food week on Embassy Row

BY ROLAND FLAMINI

ROYAL ROUNDABOUTS: One method used from time to time by European governments to give a bit of a boost to bi-lateral relations with the United States is to dispatch a royal or two to Washington. In March, former King Juan Carlos of Spain, 77, was on hand to attend the opening of the excellent Iberian Suite at the Kennedy Center, a fortnight of Spanish, Portuguese, and Mexican music, dance and theater. At the post-performance black-tie dinner, the monarch who recently abdicated under something of a cloud in favor of his popular son, now King Felipe VI, reminded the 400 or so guests that before Jamestown and Plymouth Rock, the Spanish settled St. Augustine, Fla. in 1565.

Later in the same month Prince Charles, 66, and his second wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, flew in ostensibly to mark the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta, the 50th anniversary of the March on Selma (!) and the 50th anniversary of the death of wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who originally burdened (as some see it) AngloAmerican ties with the term “special relationship,” that is now often hard to live up to.

The royal couple sailed through a relatively low-key program with their usual grace and unflappable people skills as they met and talked to high school kids, World War II vets, and city officials. Prince Charles bowled (which may be a first for him) and received an environmental award, which gave him an opportunity to summarize his passions in a speech covering fishing, deforestation, declining wildlife and sustainable urban growth — with a nod to Pope Francis who is expected to issue an cyclical letter on the ecology in June.

There was a slightly awkward moment, captured on camera, when President Obama told the heir to the British throne that his family was more popular with Americans “than their own politicians.” After a second’s pause Charles replied, “I don’t believe that” and promptly changed the subject to his visit to Mount

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Sen. Tim Kaine, King Juan Carlos of Spain and Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter arrive at the Kennedy Center for the opening of the Iberia Festival. (Photo by Yassine El Mansouri)

Vernon. Obama could have added “including me.” Recent polls gave him a 47 percent overall approval rating; Queen Elizabeth II, on the other hand, polled 82 percent in the most recent U.S. popularity survey (2012).

CUISINE, CUCINA ET CETERA: Speaking of

popes, to paraphrase Pope Leo X, French Amb. Gerard Araud may well have said, “God has given us the restored residence: let us enjoy it.” (OK, it’s a reach, but it works as a segue).

Since he moved into the refurbished Kalorama stately home earlier this year, Araud has given every indication of enjoying his grand surroundings, and it’s been party, party, party. Well, more or less.

For example, about 100 guests were recently invited to a convivial “Goût de France” dinner, a celebration of French gastronomy now enshrined by UNESCO World Heritage as part of the national culture.

Similar dinners designed to show off the

Repas Gastronomique des Francais were held at French embassies worldwide and at some 1,000 restaurants. During the meal Araud announced that after years of refusal, the Food and Drug Administration had finally granted permission to import the famous air-dried salted Jambon de Bayonne. “A small step for the U.S.,” he said.

The French Embassy is not alone in advancing cuisine diplomacy. That same week, in advance of the May opening of the Milan Fair (which Italian Amb. Claudio Bisognero described as “the largest event ever on food and nutrition”) Italy’s embassy organized two lectures by food expert Francine Sagan on Italian gastronomic traditions and innovation – one focusing solely on the pleasurable topic of Italian chocolate. And at the Spanish Embassy residence, guests sampled an array of Spanish dishes from different regions across the country at a gastronomic event titled “A Taste of Spain.”

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Sen. Dick Durbinand Bill Goodfellow

Cuban Interests Section Chief José Cabañas

Rep. Donna Edwards and Janet Shenk

Glenn Baker, Caroline Croft, Wayne Smith and Melinda Ulloa

RECEPTION TO CELEBRATE U.S.CUBA POLICY CHANGE National Press Club | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL CELEBRATINGCHANGE: A number of foundations, including Atlantic Philanthropies and the Ford Foundation, hosted a celebration of the new U.S.-Cuba policy a er a recent poll released by Beyond the Beltway/Benenson Strategy Group and SKDKnickerbocker found that a bipartisan majority of Republicans, independents and democrats support ending the embargo. The study also showed that 71 percent of all voters believe the new policy is in the best interest of both the U.S and Cuban people. OVERHEARD: Travel tips, discussions of the best places to go in Havana and what will be the best way to get there were the main topics of conversation.

Anna Lefer-Kuhn and Stephen Miles

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Juan Misle and Emma Buckhout

Col. Lawrence Wilkerson, Gregory Craig, Chaplain Joseph Eldridge and Prof. Mary King

Tom Blanton and Heather Booth

Conrad Martin

Georgeta Dragoiu and Nicolas Hernandez

John Oldfield and Peter Bourne

Steve Riskin

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Kate Leary, Laura Lee Wight, Chelsea Kaser, Caitlin Hill and Lexi Moschakis

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Daniel Erikson

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Debbi and Ernie Jarvis

Maurice Jenkins and Cora Masters Barry

Mayor Muriel Bowser, Josh Morgan and Meta Williams

Calvin and Sharon Butler with Taylor Thomas

UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND MAYOR’S MASKED BALL Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium | PHOTOS BY ALFREDO FLORES FOR THE KIDS: The United Negro College Fund pulled out all the stops for the inaugural Mayor’s Masked Ball, partnering with Mayor Muriel Bowser and Chancellor of Public Schools Kaya Henderson. Both women have shown a strong commitment to improving educational opportunities for the children of Washington, D.C. “The strength of this city is ďŹ rmly rooted in the future of its youth and we must all remain commi ed to doing all that we can to ensure that every generation to come has more opportunities to succeed than the generation that came before them,â€? LEAP CEO/ President Dr. Clayton Lawrence said while congratulating Bowser and Henderson’s educational commitments. The evening also posthumously honored “Mayor for Lifeâ€?

Marion Barry, whose ex-wife, Cora Masters Barry, was on hand to accept the award.

Suzanne Jenkins, Shari Laldee, Angela Van Croft and Naomi Shelton

Michael Lomax and Kaya Henderson

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Argentine Amb. Cecilia NahĂłn and Tony Williams

Joel Friedman, Jenny Bilfield, Hallie Friedman and Dianne Peterson

Julian Wachner and Deborah Rutter

Gaucho Jorge Pereyra

THE WASHINGTON CHORUS ARGENTINE CARNAVAL GALA Organization of American States | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Leila Beale, Barbados Amb. John Beale and Rhoda Septilici

Joel MacDonald, Sandra Morales, Marlene Mercedes and Moises Chirinos

FAT TUESDAY: As part of a week-long Argentinian celebration prior to the Washington Chorus’ debut performance at Carnegie Hall, the group hosted a swanky Mardi Gras carnaval with Argentinean Amb. Cecilia NahĂłn. The performance, under the leadership of conductor Julian Wachner, paired masterpieces from two of the 20th century’s most important classical composers, Alberto Ginastera and Charles Ives. Members of the Youth Orchestra of the Americas performed throughout the evening, which also honored two of the area’s leading women in the arts: Washington Performing Arts Society President Jenny BilďŹ eld and Kennedy Center President Deborah Ru er. CARNAVAL SPIRIT: Even snow didn’t stop the festivities as guests partied on a er donning extravagant a ire and masks.

Christopher and Pamela Denby

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POLLYWOOD | INNOVATORS AND DISRUPTORS

PUBLIC UTILITY

Opower President Alex Laskey tells how his company has redesigned the utility bill, helped save energy worldwide and put money back in consumers’ pockets

BY VIRGINIA COYNE

T

hey met as undergraduates at Harvard, reconnected years later in San Francisco and decided to start a business together that would “help the environment.” That was 2007.Today, Alex Laskey and Dan Yates’ Arlington-based software company, Opower, employs 600 people and serves over 90 client utilities on four continents. As Opower celebrates a year since going public, Laskey reflects on how the business began and what it was like to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange.

THAT LED YOU TO DEVELOP SOFTWARE FOR UTILITY COMPANIES THAT HELPS CUSTOMERS KNOW EXACTLY HOW MUCH POWER THEY USE COMPARED TO THEIR NEIGHBORS BUT DOES THAT REALLY SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY? We’ve helped create six terawatt hours of energy savings and delivered close to a billion dollars in savings back to consumers in places like Montgomery County, Baltimore, San Francisco, Massachusetts, Toyko and parts of France. That’s money that stays in people’s pockets instead of being burned up in a coal plant. It’s money that is injected into the local economy.

It’s money that gets spent in local restaurants and in local stores and in improving people’s homes.

P H OTO CO U RT E SY O P OW E R

WHY DID YOU START THE COMPANY? We set out to start the company because we thought the utility bill was such a miserable experience Opower President Alex Laskey and CEO Dan Yates at the and such a wasted opportunity.

New York Stock Exchange after going public in April 2014.

Even for an engineer, it’s barely comprehensible. The only thing you can understand is how much money you owe and where you should send the check. Providing a IN APRIL OPOWER WENT PUBLIC YOUR STOCK OPENED better bill experience means that customers ... are in control of their AT A SHARE AND YOU RANG THE BELL AT THE NEW YORK energy use, are notified if they’re on track for a high bill and get a bill at STOCK EXCHANGE WHAT WAS THAT LIKE? It was much more the end of the month that shows not only how much money they owe, emotional than I anticipated it to be. The New York Stock Exchange is but how the money was spent on heating, lighting and appliances. It this amazingly ornate, historic place.You sit on the floor of the exchange helps customers save energy but it also makes them much more satisfied and there’s Wells Fargo and American Express and IBM — all these big with the utility and reduces the likelihood they are going to call and and important companies that have been around for decades, if not a complain and this saves the utility a bunch of money. century, and then there’s Opower. It didn’t feel intimidating, though. It felt good, like we have an opportunity to build a really great company.

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA? In San Francisco, Dan and I often found ourselves driving my Honda Civic instead of his Toyota WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO OTHER ENTREPRENEURS? 4Runner because it was far more efficient and he was slightly embarrassed Do something that matters, something you care about. Most by having this big gas-guzzling car. One day we wondered – wouldn’t it entrepreneurs fail, and not because they’re not as smart as we are or be useful to know whether our homes or our apartments were efficient less talented or have worse judgment.You can fail for a whole host of rather than inefficient? The utility bill only told us how much we owed, reasons, including bad luck. And if you’re going to work your tail off but not how much energy we used. So, that was kind of the inspiration and without guarantees of success, you might as well do it for something we started drawing what a redesigned utility bill would look like. One of that’s worthwhile So, whether you plan to build a company that’s our ideas was to compare a home’s energy usage to other homes nearby going to be around for 100 years or plan to build a company that that are similar in size. you’re going to sell, do something you are proud of.

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POLLYWOOD

HOLLYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC

NEVER FINISHED

Voto Latino celebrates 10 years of accomplishments by looking to the future B Y J A N E T D O N O VA N

A

ccording to the U.S. neighborhood.”

Census Bureau, there She urged listeners to make are roughly 54 million sure they were properly filling Hispanics in the United States, out the forms in order to “get which is approximately 17 percent those monies and get that of the total U.S. population. awareness.” The group’s efforts Those numbers make Hispanic thus far appear to have been people the nation’s largest ethnic effective. Voto Latino has secured minority, which is exactly why more than $150 million in the Voto Latino advocates tapping last 10 years through census into the power of this underefforts to aid local communities. represented minority The evening also celebrated To celebrate its 10th The VL Innovators Challenge, anniversary, Voto Latino cocreated to get Millennials, Maria Teresa Kumar, America Ferrera, Rosario Dawson and Wilmer Valderrama at Voto founders, President and CEO especially Latino Millennials, Latino’s 10th anniversary (Photo courtesy Dranick Media) Maria Teresa Kumar and actress thinking about technology both Rosario Dawson, hosted an intimate gathering which is critical considering Hispanics use as an innovative change agent and a potential with the organization’s supporters at the home digital media more than any other minority. career. Out of 300 applications, seven winners of White House staffer Melody Barnes and “Our goal next year is to double that and were chosen. Though not a finalist, one of the her husband Marland Buckner, followed by identify the talent to run our country in most talked about applications came from a man a glitzy reception at Hamilton Live. Many the 21st century and eventually we can have in Oakland, Calif., who created an app to allow prominent members of the Latino community the first Latino president come out of Voto people to track gang related activity happening were on hand to commend the organization’s Latino,” she said. in real time in their neighborhood so that kids numerous accomplishments and discuss its In addition to advancing youth initiatives, could avoid it on their way home from school. future progess. in the past 10 years Voto Latino has registered “The winners proved that when given the “I’m America,” actress America Ferrera said more than 300,000 new voters, launched the space, opportunity and funding, they can create at the celebration “and I am America. But I first-ever SMS voter registration drive and co- solutions to issues that mainstream America remember in the 2012 election feeling really founded National Voter registration Day. misses, but are sorely needed by millions,” frustrated that I only had two choices and that Dawson addressed other problems facing Kumar said. we as a community were being solicited, but the Latino communities. He cited Hispanics The winners get to spend two days on the not being heard.” not completing census bureau forms that help Google Campus in California, where they will “The government talks at us, not with evaluate periodic and comprehensive statistics be paired with members of Google’s marketing, us,” added Venezuelan-born actor Wilmer about the nation every ten years — which proves creative labs, and Android teams and they’ll Valderrama. “I grew up watching “Chips,” critical for funding of government programs split $500,000.

“I Love Lucy” and “The Fresh Prince,” so I and determining policy- and decision-making Overall, the message of the evening thought that’s what America looked like,” he for communities nationwide. was clear: with campaigning for the next said.Valderrama added that he hopes to use his “If you’re not filling out your census presidential election already getting started, acting career to paint the picture of America form, you’re not bringing that money to your politicians need to rethink how they approach that he knows now, and remind everyone it community,” Dawson noted. “We’re talking the Latino vote by adjusting their attitude isn’t what they are seeing on TV. your roads, schools and libraries, which is meter — condescension out, compassion in.

Kumar told gala guests that in 2014 Voto one of the reasons we are pushing everyone On the flip side, Latinos needs to do their Latino had trained more than a thousand youth to fill them out. If the resources aren’t there part by making sure their voice is heard by in social media and fundraising strategies, [then] the government isn’t looking at your registering to vote.

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Rep. Steny Hoyer

Sec. of HUD Julian Castro and Kathleen Sebelius

The band La Santa Cecilia

Roxanne Cazares Olivas, Wilmer Valderrama and Mickey Ibarra

Jaslene Gonzalez, Maria Teresa Kumar, Adam Rodriguez, Dania Ramirez, America Ferrera and Monica Villarreal

VOTO LATINO 10TH ANNIVERSARY VL Innovator Challenge finalists Residence of Melody Barnes and Marland Buckner; Hamilton Live

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Marland Buckner, Rosario Dawson and Melody Barnes

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J I M AC O STA , C N N

CHRIS JANSING, NBC

MIKE VIQUEIRA, AL JAZEERA AMERICA

&6)%/*%78 '09&

SIX WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENTS GO ON THE RECORD ABOUT THEIR ACCESS TO PRESIDENT OBAMA, NEW MEDIA COMPETITION AND THEIR ANNUAL DINNER

BY VIRGINIA COYNE | PHOTOGRAPHS BY TONY POWELL

C H R I ST I PA R S O N S , LOS A N G E L E S T I M E S

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E D H E N R Y, F O X N E W S C H A N N E L

J U L I E T E I L P E R I N , WA S H I N G T O N P O S T WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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MAKEUP: DIANA KIM | HAIR: NEVEN RADOVIC OF IAN MCCABE STUDIO P H O T O G R A P H E D AT T H E H AY A D A M S H O T E L , T O P O F T H E H AY

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athering a group of White House correspondents for breakfast together is no small feat. Given the long days (and nights) they spend toiling in the West Wing and traveling with the leader of the free world, our morning meeting atop The Hay-Adams Hotel, where the White House would remain in their line of sight, took weeks to coordinate.

But the conversation with these six seasonded reporters was worth the wait. They spoke openly on everything from their access to the Oval Office to the feeding frenzy surrounding the annual White House Correspondents’ Association (WHCA) dinner.

Our coffee-fueled talk included CNN’s Jim Acosta; the Washington Post’s Juliet Eilperin; Fox News Channel’s Ed Henry, NBC’s Chris Jansing; Al Jazeera America’s first-ever White House correspondent, Mike Viqueira; and Christi Parsons, president of the WHCA and a reporter for the Los Angeles Times and the Chicago Tribune. It was Parsons who brought the discussion to an end by running off to a meeting to determine table assignments for the WHCA dinner on April 25. >> Washington Life: This is a rare event — all

of you having a meal together. With such busy schedules, when do you have time to eat ?

Ed Henry: Because I know it’s going to be so crazy there every day, I have a ritual to get food and then walk in. Nine times out of 10, if you leave [the White House], something happens and then you get locked out.

Chris Jansing: I do not leave the grounds and that’s really sort of the rule. You don’t know when something’s going to happen.

And isn’t it true that on that morning that you say ‘today I’m going to get caught up on my expenses and answer my emails’ something completely unexpected happens? That’s the great part of the White House – when something big happens there’s this adrenaline rush and you feel like you’re in the epicenter of the world.

Juliet Eilperin: There are these moments that happen and sometimes it’s an actual news event, something that’s breaking overseas, sometimes it’s the President talking to the press, when you do feel like history is being made. Getting a front

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Breakfast with a view: correpondents answer questions from senior editor Virginia Coyne (center) at the Hay-Adams Hotel’s Top of the Hay overlooking the White House and Washington Monument.

seat to that is pretty great.

How much of a White House press conference is orchestrated? Who gets called on and do you know ahead of time if the President will take your question?

Christi Parsons: We don’t want it to be orchestrated in any way and I don’t think it is.

I’ve been called on before and not known that it was coming. Sometimes you can read the body language so you do know, they seem to be doing newspapers today or it kind of feels like a TV day.

Chris Jansing: Or International Women’s Day, when they called on all women.

Christi Parsons: I didn’t even realize that was happening until it was over and everybody started tweeting it.

Juliet Eilperin: Same with me and I was one of the people who was called on. I just noticed they weren’t calling on TV people.

Mike Viqueira: Juliet hates TV! (laughter) Juliet, you did mention to me before breakfast that you feel the television people are called on more often during those live press conferences, correct?

Juliet Eilperin: I think it’s more important for

them and for their viewers, and the White House recognizes it, and I also think there’s a level of [monetary] investment that the networks put into covering the White House that is then in turn recognized by the White House.

Mike Viqueira: If they wanted to be equitable in that respect then they wouldn’t be doing the

| washingtonlife.com

woman with Fruit Loops in the bathtub kind of thing [referring to YouTube vlogger GloZell, who recently interviewed the President]. I think those sort of equities and those sort of considerations are shifting a great deal when they try to decide who they’re going to have interview him, when, what venue, what issue.

Jim Acosta: Not to be a Debbie Downer at this breakfast, but one of the issues that we run into is that we’re pressing them for more access, more press conferences.They do have all of these new outlets that they can turn to — YouTube, Vice, BuzzFeed — and because there’s this explosion of newer media out there, it creates fewer and fewer opportunities for the traditional White House press corps to ask questions.Whenever we raise this issue to people at the White House, the White House and the new media world say ‘oh, you guys are old media, you guys are dinosaurs, you’re dying.’ But I think there is this tug-of-war going on and quite frankly, I would like to see more orchestrating of press conferences because we need to have more of them.

When you see the President giving access and interviews to YouTube video bloggers who have never covered the White House, how does that make you feel?

Christi Parsons: I actually don’t have an

objection to that because I feel more questions from more diverse organizations is good.

However, I do think that the independent press at the White House is not something the White House should ever try to go around because

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special feature | White House Correspondents

CNN’s Jim Acosta, Al Jazeera America’s Mike Viqueira and NBC’s Chris Jansing.

we are the people who are there all the time.

This group of people knows more about the President than almost any random selection of community journalists or bloggers.They bring a valuable perspective. There’s really nothing that compares to the people who are at the White House every day, who devote themselves to knowing about the President, understand how the White House works and can ask the most pressing, cutting questions.

Jim Acosta: My concern is not so much that new media is getting invited to talk to the President. My concern is that the White House tries to use this tug of war, this push and pull between old and new media to their advantage and that there may be opportunities where they think it’s best to bring in a new media outlet versus talking to us or answering our questions at a press conference. I just don’t like that because it yields more power over the information coming out of this place to them, and in this world where there is this big explosion of new media — they have the furniture, they control all of the access and they can make it even more difficult.

Mike Viqueira: At the outset of the Obama administration, they started releasing things through tweet and certain people in the press room were like ‘this is beneath the office.You’re going to release things by Twitter?’

Jim Acosta: Almost as profound as the fact that President Obama is the first African American president is the fact that he’s the first social media president and it has totally changed the game.

WL: Social media is now part of your job. How

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has that changed your reporting?

Chris Jansing: For those of us who are here,

it’s an adjustment, because this is a full-time job.

Doing what you do and getting it on the air, or writing what you write for your news outlet, is completely all-consuming. We all pride ourselves on being able to make things more understandable in a very smart and comprehensive way, and suddenly you’re trying to do that on Twitter and it’s an adjustment.You want to do justice to something that could be really significant and you don’t necessarily have the depth, the opportunity to do that when you’re doing it on social media. On the other hand, it’s an opportunity to give people a chance to be engaged every day, multiple times a day, in a way they never would have before.

Christi Parsons: But if you’re going to do that sort of thing, you can’t let your journalistic day get eaten up by those little bites. As a group, we push for opportunities to ask the President questions in the Oval Office.We are pushing for press conference no less than once every six weeks.We are pushing for a chance to ask him questions multiple times each week.

Ed Henry: The President started doing that a little bit more recently and I think that’s part of Christi’s hard work and everybody on the board of the White House Correspondents’ Association.

WL: Do you feel like this president has given you more or less access than previous presidents?

Ed Henry: This ends up becoming political and subjective. I hear people now say Obama is so much less transparent or accessible than

Bush, but if you look at the statistics, while Bush took more questions on a daily basis, this president has taken more questions in interviews and other settings. My bottom line is that they have the freedom to take questions however they like, whatever tools of social media and whatnot, but I think the president sort of lifted the standard by starting things out saying ‘I’m going to have the most transparent administration ever’ and there have been some pretty clear-cut examples, the Clinton email situation recently, suggesting that isn’t true.

Jim Acosta: People like Anne Compton, the long-time ABC News correspondent, or Susan Page of USA Today are saying this is the least transparent president that they’ve covered in a generation. Barack Obama came into office saying his would be the most open and transparent administration that we’ve ever had, yet you have two living institutions here in Washington saying that’s not the case. I agree, I think Christi and the Correspondents’ Association have done an incredible job of opening up access recently.

The president has seen a need to do more of that since the midterms, but I always feel like it doesn’t hurt to give them a little nudge, a little reminder every now and then that they could do more.

Chris jansing: Statistics only tell part of the story, right? There’s an enormous difference between the number of questions someone takes and the number of times they make themselves available and whether or not they’re willing to make news. chrsti Parsons: Here’s where we are as a group: the press should have access to the president on a regular basis to ask him questions and to see him at work and to cross- examine him.

And in specific terms it looks like this — we talk to him this often, he never does X event without taking Y questions from the press corps. I also want to make this point because you are doing this around the time of the White House Correspondents’ dinner:This is our annual company dinner. This is when we get together as a group and forge the bonds of our organization. The dinner is important for journalistic reasons. It coalesces us. It’s a time when we all get together about what we do, not just at the dinner itself but in the run-up to the dinner. So, when people buy tickets or in other ways show their support, they are supporting an association that spends all

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of their time working to open the doors of that building over there.

Has the dinner become too much of a spectacle, more about the celebrities in attendance than the correspondents and scholarships as some critics are saying, including Patrick Gavin in his new documentary “Nerd Prom”?

Christi Parsons: Yes. The celebrities and the

broadcast of [the dinner] and all of that have contributed to the spectacle a little bit, but I feel better about that than it being behind closed doors. ...

This is about as plain and open as you can get.You get to see who we’re having dinner with and how we do it. The celebrities are advocates who come to push their agenda. There’s a good reason that the motion picture industry goes to such great lengths to make sure they are there.

Mike Viqueira: Should we be a part of that?

Christi Parsons: Look, I don’t invite celebrities to sit at my table. I invite newsmakers because to me this is a dinner where reporters and newsmakers sit down and have conversations, informal conversations, in which we learn things.

Juliet Eilperin: And that’s a better use of our time.The Post has that policy.We invite Cabinet members and senior officials and it is an opportunity where we can talk about things and get story ideas.

Mike Viqueira: But the public doesn’t see that.

They see Sean Penn walking with his wife on the red carpet. Let’s face it, there’s a whole entrance reserved for celebrities to walk which literally has a red carpet! I mean, for all the laudable goals that the dinner achieves, I find that to be a little bit embarrassing. It turns into this sort of orgy of self-reverance. As a journalist, I train myself not to be impressed by famous people. I found my threshold last year when Robert DeNiro was there and I was a little bit in awe of him as an Italian American.

Christi Parsons:I am not impressed by people who bring Miley Cyrus.That is not going to win you extra tables, or a table at all.When people call you and say ‘oh my God, you’ve got to give me a table because I’ve got XYZ’ that’s an argument against giving those people seats.

Mike Viqueira: I do think the celebrity issue has gotten out of hand.

Christi Parsons: I agree with you, but I also want to say that it’s supposed to be fun. That’s

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Fox New Channel’s Ed Henry, the Washington Post’s Juilet Eilperin and WHCA President Christi Parsons discuss the upcoming correpondents’ dinner.

what makes people want to come — because they want to meet DeNiro. They also want to meet Madeline Albright and they want to see the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and those people probably get as many selfies from admiring correspondents as the celebrities. The celebrities do create a certain buzz that helps us attract people. Ultimately that goes back to what I was saying before about our group and our weight at the White House. I don’t mean to be dismissive of the celebrities because most of those who come are people who care about politics and government and when they come they are lending their support to an organization with really noble goals.

Jim Acosta: And sometimes they can create a moment. I remember the 2011 correspondents’ dinner when Donald Trump was there, Obama had just put out the long form birth certificate and he just went after Donald Trump in his remarks. When the camera focused on Trump it was just priceless because the president was sort of getting his revenge. So, sometimes those dinners can be stories in themselves.

Are there other jokes or remarks that made news?

Juliet Eilperin: When Obama was declared

the first nerd president, that’s something that frankly, I’ve used in a story because it does accurately describe him.

Ed Henry: Then there was the one where he said ‘people say I should reach out to Congress more, I should have dinner with Mitch McConnell – you have dinner with Mitch McConnell!’

| washingtonlife.com

and he got a pretty good laugh from Republicans in the room.

Jim Acosta: And then that became a story.

Juliet Eilperin: Obviously the rule of thumb for any politician who’s giving one of these talks is make fun of yourself .That is the way you end up both being funny and not alienating your audience.

Ed Henry: It’s not like everyone’s getting a chance to hang out with the President that night, and if your table has the Secretary of State or Secretary of Defense, I’m not pretending that we’re sitting there talking about major national policy the whole dinner, but getting to sit next to Jeh Johnson, the Homeland Security Secretary, and thus having a better sense of who he is so that if, God forbid, you are covering a terror attack in six months, you’ll see he’s more of a multidimensional person. Our coverage can get single dimensional too, often when we don’t know the people we cover.

Chris Jansing: Just because you’re sitting next to somebody at dinner doesn’t mean that you’re putting your arm around them and suddenly we’re best friends. It means we’re coming to an understanding about who we both are and hopefully coming to a point of mutual respect that helps you both do your jobs better.

Christi Parsons:That is a really important thing for my readers and their viewers and radio listeners, for the people that represent you on that beat, to be having these kinds of conversations.That’s what we mean when we talk about press access. We mean people, reporters, asking vigorous questions.

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POLLYWOOD

BOOKS

BOOK TALK

RACE & THE WHITE HOUSE I

t takes courage to interview people in power, especially when you are asking tough questions. It’s something White House journalist April Ryan could write a book about. And that’s what she did, penning a concise and heartfelt insider’s account of more than 17 years covering the White House.

“The Presidency in Black and White: My Up-Close View of Three Presidents and Race in America” (Rowman & Littlefield, $24.95) explores one reporter’s journey to ask about racial issues at White House press conferences while analyzing the efforts three presidents made to handle them during their terms in office.

Ryan drew from journals she kept as a longtime correspondent and bureau chief for American Urban Radio Networks. (She is also one of only three African Americans to serve on the White House Correspondent’s Association board.) The book is the result of many long nights of juggling a full-time job with a family, a two-hour commute (both ways) and the realization that writing it was much harder than she’d anticipated. After all, Ryan worked in radio, not print.

“It was challenging in the fact that I’m a radio person who believes in sound bites,” Ryan told us. But you can’t get a book from thirty-second sound bites.

She enrolled in a Johns Hopkins University writing course, where she began to look at writing from a craft perspective. She wrote articles for Baltimore Magazine and the Huffington Post, and then for her own blog.

“Writing was an evolution for me,” she says, reflecting on the process that began over a decade ago.

“I would steal away in my brother’s office to write the book,” she says. “I could go there on a Friday night at nine and leave when the sun came up. I would wake up early, when the kids were still sleeping, or in the middle of the night and write.”

Getting the content right required much reflection, looking back on her history of following Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and

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Barack Obama. She even went back to the presidents for updated interviews. “Time was on my side because we had these great stories,” Ryan says. “I wanted the people to have something that was a good, factual read.”

She gets personal as well, taking her readers to the beginning of her career as a reporter, delving into the challenges she faced in covering the news for a “specialty” media outlet.

“The reward of being in specialty media is that you’re not part of the group that asks the same questions,” she says. “The front two rows harp on the same questions but when you go back in that room, there are other issues that people have questions about from other parts of America. I ask all of the questions, but I focus on urban minority America. The downside is that many of my colleagues think I cause the room to lose momentum. There are so many issues out there beyond the Hillary Clinton emails and the Iran investigations.”

We asked her what she thinks the most pressing issue is to her audience right now.

“In broad brushstrokes: economics,” she

replies. “That translates into jobs, education, housing. And then you have the issue of racism. Race plays into economics, housing, so many areas. We still have issues of racism around this country and it’s a problem.

Racism is the umbrella and the other issues fall underneath,” she says. “We created the blueprint for the civil rights movement of the ’50s and ’60s. Unfortunately we have walked away from it. We have not galvanized to use that blueprint.”

Racism, she believes, is something that should be addressed, or at least acknowledged, by the president. She explains in her book: “I was sure that once I walked through those[White House] doors, I’d see things that were changing and that there was hope for a government that wanted to represent all people. However, as I watched each president get sworn in and take office, it only took a few months before the good intentions gave way to political favors and party tradeoffs.”

Ryan’s insights into the presidents are often eye opening and observed with both empathy and humor. She takes a surprisingly sympathetic view of Bush, whom she got to know personally over the years of his administration. “What I saw in George W. Bush’s policies and politics,” she says, “did not match who he was as a person to me.”

The book concludes with each president being graded with a “Race Report Card” in five categories: administration diversity, apology/reparations, domestic outreach, international outreach and jobs/ unemployment. Overall, Clinton and Obama received B-pluses and Bush a C-minus.

Ryan believes that no president in recent history has tackled race to A-plus standards, but has hopes for the future.

“I’d love to see a president who is more inclusive of all people, and who would stand up in the first term rather than the second.

It’s unfortunate we’re targeting groups now instead of being a president for everyone.

I’d love to see a president focus on bringing everyone to the table.”

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PHOTO COURTE SY OF CHRISTY BOWE , IMAGE CATCHER NEWS. JACKET DE SIGN BY JEN HUPPERT DE SIGN

BY ERICA MOODY

POLLYWOOD |

OPINION

NERD PROM INSIDE WASHINGTON’S WILDEST WEEK

Former Politico Reporter Patrick Gavin’s behind-the-scenes documentary of the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner finds more spectacle than substance surrounding the annual event B Y PAT R I C K G AV I N

W

hen I began thinking about doing a documentary about the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, I was primarily interested in creating a portrait of the event: what the dinner is, what happens there and why celebrities make the trek to Washington to attend. I still have the original list of questions I’d planned on asking my interview subjects, relatively empty ones such as “What is it like sitting next to the president on the dais?” or “What do you talk to him about?”

None of those questions or answers made it into the final film.

As I dug deeper into both the dinner and the nearly five days of hoopla surrounding it each Spring, a different story began to emerge.

The event wasn’t just an interesting moment, it was THE moment in Washington each year.

It’s prominence had grown to such a point that you’d be hard pressed to find anything to compare it to.

In and of itself this might not be such a surprising thing, or even a bad thing.

Hollywood has the Oscars, New Orleans has Mardi Gras. This is Washington’s signature event. However, what struck me as odd was that our extravaganza was quite out of sync with the values Washington is supposed to embody: public service, civic mindedness and government for and by the people; and I wasn’t convinced that this was something that most Americans knew about their nation’s capital.

If you had assumed that both the White House Correspondents’ Association’s annual dinner and its related parties are homages to the important work of White House correspondents, to the Association’s admirable scholarship program or to the timeless struggle to support journalistic access, you’ll find my documentary proves otherwise.

Recognition of White House correspondents garners nary a mention throughout the week of events, the Association’s scholarship program

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is not nearly as robust as it ought to be and, if supporting journalistic access was a guiding principle, it certainly didn’t apply to someone like myself, who was embarking on what I would consider a bit of journalism worth supporting: the first ever documentary about the White House Correspondents’ Association’s dinner and its surrounding events.

That no one had ever done a documentary on it before was a surprise to me, but it became very clear there was a reason: Trying to report on this weekend and uncover its true meaning in this town is not a simple task. I observed and covered the dinner for nearly ten years. When I worked at Politico, the Washington Examiner and mediabistro.com’s FishbowlDC, it wasn’t difficult getting access. To be honest, that was because I didn’t report on what was happening with any depth. I’d ask, say, Kerry Washington what she thought about first lady Michelle Obama’s fashion sense or Entourage’s Adrian Grenier to weigh in on the party scene here

| A P R I L | washingtonlife.com

compared to Hollywood.

Hard hitting journalism it was not.

When I left Politico in May 2014 to work on this documentary and it became clear I was hoping to do some meaningful reporting on the outsized role this week has assumed, my access promptly dried up.

I soon came to appreciate that the focus in and around the White House Correspondents’ Association’s annual dinner was not on the advertised virtues. The question I then had to answer was “What exactly is this week all about?”

What I found throughout the making of “Nerd Prom” — and what I found troubling — was a town in full self-celebration mode at a time when Americans’ views of their nation’s capital are at historic lows. This discrepancy — that it exists and why — seemed like a story that most Americans didn’t know about. I thought someone should tell them.

The film I ended up doing was not the one I set out to make, but it is one that I hope will start a much-needed conversation about whether Washington is living up to its ideals.

Patrick Gavin’s film is available for purchase this month at www.nerdpromthemovie.com.

Patrick Gavin

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CELINE silk cady with gauze strip blouse ($2,700), Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, MD 20815, 301-657-9000; AKRIS PUNTO leather leggings ($1,990), Saks Jandel, 5510 Wisconsin Ave., Chevy Chase, MD 20815, 301-652-2250; FENDI encaged sandal ($1,350), Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St., NW, 202-342-0202; VENESSA ARIZAGA necklaces ($170-$205 each), Hu’s Wear, 2906 M St., NW, 202-3422020; ALEXIS BITTAR bracelet ($98), www.alexisbittar.com; bracelet on left arm, model’s own.

ALICE & OLIVIA “Rory” embroidered long jacket ($1,098), VINCE drape hem tank ($98), PIERCE “Josefina” destroyed bleach jeans ($225) and NANCY GONZALEZ razor clutch ($2,000), Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, 301-657-9000; BALENCIAGA open toe leather pumps ($745), Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St., NW, 202342-0202; bracelet on left arm, model’s own.

STELLA MCCARTNEY fleur blazer ($1,630) and Celine textured silk with fringe sleeveless dress ($4,750), Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, 301-657-9000; ROBERTO CLERGERIE “Lissia” sandals ($695), Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St., NW, 202342-0202; ALEXIS BITTAR turquoise earrings ($295) and ALEXIS BITTAR cuff ($175), www.alexisbittar.com; bracelet on left arm, model’s own.

VALENTINO lace shirt ($1,290) and VALENTINO long lace skirt ($2,990), Saks Jandel, 5510 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, 301-652-2250; CHLOE “Marcie” satchel ($2,090) and LAFAYETTE lucite pendant necklace ($148), Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Avenue, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, 301-657-9000; FENDI “Flynn Orchid” dot sneakers ($750), Hu’s Shoes, 3005 M St., NW, 202-342-0202; bracelet, model’s own.v

LIFESTYLES | TREND REPORT SEE BY CHLOé Andrea texturedleather tote ($435); saksfifthavenue.com

TAMARA MELLON Cotton-blend canvas playsuit ($695); neimanmarcus.com

BURBERRY LONDON The Sandringham Mid cotton-gabardine trench coat ($1,795); saksfifthavenue.com

TOTêME Turin cashmere top ($345); neta-porter.com

THEORY Grinetta linen wide-leg pants ($295); saksfifthavenue.com

2IYXVEP +IEV

Embrace both the safari-chic look and the minimalist trend of the season with nude hues in everything from heels to ponchos.

BY ALISON MCLAUGHLIN

MICHAEL KORS Miranda large leather bucket bag ($795); saksfifthavenue.com

CARVEN Linen mini skirt ($470); saksfifthavenue.com

GUCCI Belted silk crepe de chine shirt dress ($2,300); neimanmarcus.com

BALENCIAGA Open-toe suede pumps ($745); neimanmarcus.com

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ISABEL MARANT Vega stretch-canvas wide-leg pants ($510); barneys.com

CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA Harvest woven raffia pumps ($995); net-a-porter.com

THE ROW Matir paneled suede top ($3,750); saksfifthavenue.com WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

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A.P.C. Riviera printed crepe top ($325); barneys.com

MISSONI Striped crochetknit maxi skirt ($1,920); saksfifthavenue.com

MISSONI Crochet-knit cotton-blend poncho ($250); neimanmarcus.com

SAINT LAURENT Leather-trimmed shearling gilet ($3,190); neta-porter.com

VALENTINO Fringed texturedleather sandals ($1,075); saksfifthavenue.com

,MTTMI 'LMG

ETRO Printed silkcrepe wide-leg pants ($1,000); saksfifthavenue.com

Let the Summer of Love inspire your summer 2015 look with a blend of colorful patterns, flowy fabrics and perhaps a peace sign.

BY ALISON MCLAUGHLIN

ETRO Printed silk-crepe blouse ($1,880); saksfifthavenue.com

EMILIO PUCCI Embellished tulle vest ($4,300); net-a-porter.com

GUCCI Horsebitdetailed leather mules ($750); saksfifthavenue.com

FRAME DENIM Le High Flare high-rise jeans ($220); saksfifthavenue.com

CHLOĂŠ The Marcie mini textured-leather shoulder bag ($815); saksfifthavenue.com ETRO Printed silk-crepe dress ($1,580); neimanmarcus.com

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LIFESTYLES |

TRAVEL MONTPELIER

MONTPELIER ROAD TRIP A visit to the Virginia home of the fourth U.S. president and the surrounding countryside

BY ERICA MOODY

Montpelier exterior. Photo by Kenneth M. Wyner, courtesy of The Montpelier Foundation

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n this city of hustle and bustle, it’s important to give yourself moments to reflect, and where best to do that than in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains? Just 88 miles southwest of the District sits the home of James and Dolley Madison, the “Father of the Constitution” and the “First First Lady.” A scenic drive to the revitalized estate makes for a quick and relaxing escape to a place that only feels like the middle of nowhere; you can rest assured that home and its obligations are just a short drive away.

MONTPELIER HISTORY Madison’s grandfather, Ambrose Madison first purchased the nearly 2,700-acre Montpelier property in 1723, and it was in the family until Madison died and Dolley sold the estate. The most known private owner is Marion duPont Scott who, when she died in 1983, bequeathed Montpelier to the National Trust for Historic Preservation with a $10 million endowment.

Since then, extensive restoration, including a $25 million restoration completed in 2008, has been carried out to restore the property back to its 1820 appearance. The “Presidential Detective Story” exhibit currently on display lets visitors into the process of unearthing clues to find what the house looked like in President Madison’s day, and the Archeology Lab allows visitors to discuss this process with on-site experts.

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Master suite at the Inn at Willow Grove. Photo courtesy of The Inn at Willow Grove

RUBENSTEIN’S GIFT Caryle Group co-founder David Rubenstein, often referred to as “The Patriotic Philanthropist” for his donations to Mount Vernon, Monticello and now Montpelier, recently gifted the Montpelier Foundation with $10 million dollars.

This generous gift, announced at the Montpelier Hunt Races last November, is helping in two areas—to accelerate restoration of the mansion, and to complete reconstruction of the South Yard enslaved community quarters. Thanks to Rubenstein’s gift, the mansion will soon be completely restored to reflect its original state at the time the Madisons lived there.

WHAT TO DO In addition to Montpelier, nearby towns offer delicious food, quaint mom-and-pop shops, more history and all the scenery you can soak in. The National Postal Museum’s restored train depot in Orange is now a civil rights museum and the Civil War Museum at the Exchange Hotel in nearby Gordonsville is Virginia’s only standing Civil War receiving hospital. While in Gordonsville, grab lunch at local favorite Barbeque Exchange (now also served in Montpelier’s café) for authentic Southern food, and stroll main street’s art galleries, antique shops and boutiques. Also, every April, the Dolley Madison Garden Club hosts a tour of the Spotswood Trail for Historic Garden Week.

WHEN TO VISIT Since Montpelier will be open seven days a week beginning April 6, any day is a good time to visit, but look into the frequent special events that are open to the public, such as the South Yard Groundbreaking Ceremony on April 18, the popular Montpelier Spring Wine Festival May 23 and the festive Constitution Day Celebration and Freedom Wine Festival on Sept. 19.

WHERE TO STAY Check in early to the Inn at Willow Grove and there’s a chance you’ll want to stay there all day. The boutique hotel offers luxury accommodations in a historic 18th century plantation house on a private 40-acre estate, and its four-star Vintage Restaurant and Pub features delicious regional American farmto-table cuisine. With a romantic ambiance to the restaurant and accommodations, it’s not a surprise that the Inn is a prime spot for weddings and engagements. Enjoy a bottle from the restaurant’s carefully selected, awardwinning wine list on the front or back porch of your private cottage, and take in stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Trust us, you won’t want to return to reality after a weekend in Orange County, but not to worry—you can always return next weekend.

Visit innatwillowgrove.com.

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LIFESTYLES | RICHARD BRANSON’S DREAMLINER

BIGGER FASTER HIGHER Virgin Atlantic’s new Boeing 787 Dreamliner Service aims to bring romance back into flying out of Dulles

BY JOHN ARUNDEL

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million lounge at Dulles on the same day it launched Airbus A-380 super jumbo service to London. “We’re using design and amenities in the [Boeing 787-9] to help bring back some of the romance of international travel,� says Nik Lusardi, who was part of the Virgin design team that spent seven years retrofitting the plane. The aircraft “is a real springboard for us,� he adds.“It’s just a hint of what we can do in the future.�

There’s a brighter, lighter cabin, and the portholes are 50 percent larger than the windows on older Boeing models. The seats are larger and more spacious and in Upper Class, the seats recline fully into a bed with a full-size pillow and duvet. There is a fully-stocked British bar bathed in ambient lavender light.

Even the breathing is better. Cleaner, fresher air is blown from large ducts into the three cabins, reducing the sluggish feeling you might get from older models like the 747 or 737.

With 20 percent more space in the cabin, higher ceilings, larger overhead bins and more headspace, passengers are able to move about more freely.WiFi is another big plus, allowing them to surf the web and check email from 40,000 feet.

The 787 also flies higher and faster than other commercial aircraft.The twin Rolls-Royce Trent turbofan engines power to London in under 5 hours and 25 minutes.

It’s easy to see why Virgin could not wait to get its hands on Boeing’s latest model, and why it plans to have 21 more in the sky by 2018. “This symbolizes a turn for Mr. Branson and his vision,� says Randy Tinseth, vice president of marketing for Boeing Commercial Airplanes in Seattle. Seattle.“It makes travel a little friendlier and certainly more comfortable.�

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ust as The Beatles invaded America 50 years ago with their historic first U.S. concert in Washington, Sir Richard Branson and his Virgin Atlantic Airways are aiming to channel that ’60s British, cool vibe with new non-stop service of the Boeing Dreamliner from Dulles International Airport to London’s Heathrow.

The iconoclast British billionaire recently launched a $5 billion bet on the Boeing 787-9, with fanfare that would have made P.T. Barnum blush.

Onboard, rock bands and gospel singers heralded new Dreamliner service from Boston and Washington, while Branson extolled the plane’s 20 percent improved fuel efficiency. “Our new Dreamliner is one of the quietest and cleanest planes ever,� Virgin Group’s founder and chairman says. “It’s just one of the steps we’re taking toward cleaner, more sustainable air travel.�

A zealous entrepreneur who has launched more than 400 companies, Branson once said he was skeptical of global warming until he had lunch with Al Gore, who convinced him otherwise.

Now, in partnership with LanzTech, he’s working towards a world-first flight using lowcarbon fuel. This rare, eco-friendly approach has made him a fearsome contender in the highly competitive airline industry. “Branson brings Sinatra cool to the airline business,� says Martin Whitmer of Whitmer & Worrall, a transportation lobbyist in Washington who represented Virgin America on regulatory matters here. “He treats customers as ‘guests’ and thus has developed an Elvis-like following in the U.S. for the civility and joy he has re-established in commercial aviation.�

Sir Richard Branson after the maiden flight of Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. (Courtesy Photo)

Branson has cut a broad swath through Washington’s power circles, having made appearances at recent forums hosted by The Atlantic and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and with fellow space entrepreneur Elon Musk.

Gracious and polite, he is also deeply philanthropic. Among other causes, he is a founding sponsor of the Alexandriabased International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children, where his mother Eve is a boardmember.

The new Dreamliner service and the ratified joint venture with Delta Airlines could be Virgin Atlantic’s key to unlocking more U.K.-bound bookings at Dulles from U.S. government employees, who are discouraged from booking foreign-flagged carriers. “The Dreamliner has greater reliability than most of our older planes in the sky,� says Virgin Atlantic CEO Craig Kreeger. “And Washington is very important to us, which is why it came so early in the rollout.�

Last month,Virgin Atlantic flew its maiden flight of the fast and comfortable Dreamliner from Washington to London, setting up a challenge of sorts to longtime rival British Airways, which in October opened a $15

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LIFESTYLES | DINE AND DISH

POST GAME

DISHING WITH THE REDSKINS Ryan Kerrigan and Darrel Young serve it up B Y L A U R A WA I N M A N

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RYA N K E R R I G A N A N D DA R R E L YO U N G P H OTO S CO U RT E SY WA S H I N GTO N R E D S K I N S

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ashington is a town that wasn’t too happy about. gives 110 percent effort HE DIDN’T EVEN ASK PERMISSION FIRST? DY: Nah, he kind of just stole that in whatever it does, from kiss. I’ve done it before though, it’s lobbying the Hill to finding the best ok. (Laughs all around table). brunch locale to cheering on those suiting up for the big game. But how YOU ARE BOTH VERY CHARITABLY well do we really know our local INVOLVED IN WASHINGTON. TELL ME legends? Sure, you can recite Bryce ABOUT YOUR PHILANTHROPIC WORK AND Harper’s homer stats just as fast as WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO BE ACTIVE IN THE you can fire off Boehner’s voting COMMUNITY. record on immigration, but do you RK: It’s just the way I was raised. I’ve know what makes him tick? Each been given a lot, not just monetarily, month, I’ll be dining with some but with life opportunities and it of your favorite sports stars to give L to R: Ryan Kerrigan, Laura Wainman and Darrel Young mix it up in the Redskins’ seems like a no brainer to help people you a well-rounded portrait of the kitchen. (Photo by Jay Snap) when I can. My foundation [Blitz people wearing the uniforms. For this for the Better] helps special needs and physically inaugural column, I headed to the Redskins WHAT FOODS HAS HE INTRODUCED YOU TO? practice facility in Ashburn to enjoy a three- DY: I don’t even like seafood and I eat it just disabled children. I am working right now to get Kerrigan’s Korner in place at Children’s course dinner prepared by Redskins executive about every day here. chef Jon Mathieson, formerly of BLT Steak, RK: I’d never tried crab cakes before and I love National Hospital. It will be an entertainment with linebacker Ryan Kerrigan and fullback his. I’m hooked on quinoa and faro now and I area with iPads, video games and TVs just to take their minds off being confined in the hospital- a Darrel Young. Read on to find out who is a attribute that to John. way to give them an escape. devoted Katy Perry fan, who you may see in DY: I decided this year to be a Big Brother, Our first course arrives with watercress and pea your Bikram yoga class and what it will take because I always wanted a younger brother. shoots salad, fennel, pepper and artichoke tart and for the Burgundy and Gold to once again be a Like Ryan said, when you grow up and see duck confit potato soup with duck skin chicarones force to be reckoned with. >> how privileged you are, you just want to give and abalone mushrooms back. I’m living my dream, but I’m just carrying HOW OFTEN DOES CHEF JON COOK FOR YOU ALL? Ryan Kerrigan: Usually twice a day, five times RK: I don’t usually like soups but this is good. pigskin in front of 90,000 people. The least I DY: He makes a really good gumbo. Everyone can do is bring someone along for the journey. a week. knows if you aren’t from New Orleans you can’t I’ve been through every emotion with my little WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEALS HE MAKES? say you make good gumbo, but his gumbo? It brother, and I just want him to see the good RK: He makes a chicken parm that is second to touched my soul a little bit. things in life, whether that is getting him around none. Whenever that’s on the menu I get a few guys like Kerrigan, taking him to RGIII’s pieces to take home. His salmon is great, too.

YOU’RE IN THE OFFSEASON NOW, SO HOW DO YOU summer camp, or giving him water guns for Darrel Young: I had the salmon earlier. He puts PREFER TO SPEND YOUR FREE TIME? Christmas and chasing him around. some special sauce on it, I still don’t know what DY: Playing PlayStation, attending other sporting events, just getting away from the YOU BOTH WORK A LOT WITH KIDS. WHAT DO YOU it is, but man it’s good.

RK: He makes such a broad menu and I’ve been game of football, honestly. I like to travel. I just THINK ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING WASHINGTON’S introduced to so many new foods because of it. got back from seven days in Australia where I CHILDREN? I’m more likely to try them when I go out to got to hold a baby kangaroo. I went to kiss it DY: I want them to understand that they don’t eat now. and he just kind of licked my mouth, which I have to just accept the situation they may

currently live in. I live by the motto, “Don’t follow the path the trail may bring you to. Create your own path and leave a trail behind you so people can follow you.” Don’t settle.

RK: I agree kids shouldn’t just accept the hand they are dealt. Look at Roger Mody. He is the perfect example of a D.C. guy who started off incredibly poor, but he worked his butt off and became a part owner of the Wizards and Caps.

He is totally self-made.You don’t have to start off as a trust fund baby to live the life you want.

Second course arrives and the chef jokingly calls it the “Ryan Kerrigan special.” Seared John Dory is served with house-smoked bacon, fingerling potatoes, romanesco cauliflower, romesco puree and pickled onion foam.

2014 MAY NOT HAVE BEEN A WINNING SEASON, BUT IT WAS STILL A CRITICAL YEAR STRUCTURALLY FOR THE ORGANIZATION, PARTICULARLY WITH THE HIRE OF COACH JAY GRUDEN. WHAT HAVE THE BIGGEST CHANGES BEEN UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP? DY: Jay’s mindset is a little different. [Mike] Shanahan was old school in the sense of his spirit. Jay has young kids and he relates to players a little more. Before the Dallas game, he came in and quoted a Juicy J line “Every time I go out, you know I gotta show out.” It excited the guys when your head coach is saying stuff like that and relating to us on our level.

RK: He is a very intense guy both when he’s happy and not happy with what you did.

If you’re not doing your job you will hear about it.

WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS FROM THE 2014 SEASON? RK: We were 4-12. Even if you were the best player on the team, you need to be better because it obviously wasn’t good enough. Individually and collectively, we need to do something different because if we keep doing the same thing, we will get the same results. Personally, I need to get more fluidity and flexibility in my hips, which is why I’ve started doing Bikram yoga.

DY: Once we eliminate all the distractions we will be ok. We can’t have people going on TV or on Twitter and calling each other out. We have to stay close regardless of what goes on, and we need to keep the media out of what

we are doing as a team.

THE REDSKINS HAVE THE LONGEST STANDING HOME GAME SELLOUT STREAK IN THE NFL AND A VERY LOYAL FAN BASE. DO YOU HAVE A SENSE OF PRESSURE OR RESPONSIBILITY TO PERFORM WHEN PLAYING FOR FANS LIKE THAT? RK: Of course we want to give the fans wins, because they are always there for us and we saw what it’s like when we give them wins, in 2012. It’s a different town when we win and we want the city to have that again.They deserve it.

DY: 2012 felt like we had won a Superbowl. It hurts when we know we aren’t doing what the fans want, but I promise you we don’t go out aiming to lose.

WHAT WILL IT TAKE FOR THE REDSKINS TO ONCE AGAIN BE A PERENNIAL POST-SEASON CONTENDER LIKE THEY WERE IN THE ’80S? DY: Consistency from every person in the building.

RK: Something that a team like Seattle has is a close bond, and when you care for your teammates that goes a long way. When you see Marshawn Lynch grab a great TD, you see Sherman and all those guys go nuts on the sideline. Not that we don’t get excited when our guys score, but you need that kind of love for your teammates.

DY: I haven’t really been on any dates here.

LAST CONCERT YOU WENT TO? RK: Zach Brown Band at Jiffy Lube last

summer.

DY: I went to Drake vs. Lil Wayne. We have different taste in music.

RK: No, not us. [Laughs] DY: I love Katy Perry and Miley Cyrus. I don’t care what anyone says.

RK: Katy Perry makes some good music.

IF YOU COULD SIT NEXT TO ANYONE AT A DINNER PARTY, DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD IT BE? DY: Beyonce.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY? DY: I love you.Will you marry me?

RK: I’d ask Chris Farley to do some impressions.

The last course is presented with braised short ribs, parsnip puree, seared wild mushrooms and crispy shallots, in a red wine reduction.

LET’S DO A QUICK LIGHTNING ROUND NOW. JUST SAY WHATEVER COMES TO MIND. BEST MEAL YOU’VE HAD IN WASHINGTON? RK: Filomena in Georgetown is my spot.

DY: Jackson’s Restaurant in Reston has a 14 oz. rib eye that is marinated in pineapple for 24 hours. It changed my life.

GO-TO DATE SPOT? RK: Tony and Joe’s on the waterfront in Georgetown.

VISIT WASHINGTONLIFE COM FOR AN EXTENDED INTERVIEW AND BEHIND-THE-SCENES VIDEO

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LIFESTYLES | CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Catholic Charities Gala Catholic Charities Gala Chairmen Tom and Karen Natelli explain their support of a noble mission

BY TO M A N D K A R E N N AT E L L I

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ome things in life just make sense; like chairing Accomplished Staff: The staff at Catholic the 2015 Catholic Charities Gala.

Char ities has leveraged more than 8,700 We are honored to have been entrusted with this volunteers to help stretch their work even further, opportunity to steward the largest annual fundraiser including pro bono services of medical and legal for an organization serving more than 120,000 men, professionals valued at more than $16.7 million women, and children annually. last year alone.

Whether it’s a place to sleep for the night, a hot Verified Excellence: The National Council meal, counseling, mental health care, job training and on Accreditation recognizes Catholic Charities placement, a safe shelter from domestic violence, or as a non-profit employing best practices in its even free legal representation, Catholic Charities programs and its administration. Its medical clinic Tom and Karen Natelli, Chairmen of this year’s Catholic Charities Gala has become a fountain of support for many of the in Montgomery County received a 100 percent (Courtesy photo) neediest families in the Washington area. Lending administrative rating and a 98.6 percent clinical our support and efforts to ensure Catholic Charities has the resources to rating for its work. The Behavioral Health Program earned the first provide these vital services is a natural extension of our personal faith. ever five-star rating from the D.C. government last year.

So, why is your support of Catholic Charities a good investment in Catholic Charities comprises an amazing group of people who have our community? committed their lives to helping others.They are providing services that Location, location, location: There are 65 vital community programs are vital to tens of thousands of families in serious need in our region. housed in 47 locations across the region, creating a network of support at The help is unconditional. That’s good for these families, and it’s good the local neighborhood level that is readily accessible to those in need. for Washington.

Prevent Cancer Foundation The Irish Ambassador works to prevent cancer in the United States and abroad

BY ANNE ANDERSON, AMBASSADOR OF IRELAND

IIrish Amb. Anne Anderson (center) with dancers from the Culkin School of Irish Dance at the Prevent Cancer Foundation 21st Annual Spring Gala.

(Photo by Jack Hartzman Photography)

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was delighted to partner with the Prevent Cancer Foundation and serve as honorary patron at its 21st Annual Spring Gala in March. The gala, which paid homage to “Ireland: Legendary and Contemporary”, was a huge success and raised more than $1.6 million to advance the foundation’s work.

I am a strong believer in the foundation’s mission. The cause resonates with me personally — many people very dear to me have had

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their lives affected by cancer. At a national level, my country is firmly committed to being in the forefront of the fight against this disease.

The Prevent Cancer Foundation is the only U.S. non-profit organization dedicated solely to cancer prevention and early detection.

It was founded nearly 30 years ago, when “prevention” was not part of the national or international health conversation. Over the years, the foundation has fought steadfastly to change that, and has helped to ensure that prevention and early detection are now seen as integral to the overall effort.

The objective is to stop cancer before it starts — through lifestyle choices, screening and early diagnosis. That approach will be an important part of Ireland’s next National Cancer Strategy to be adopted this year. It also underpins our national goal of becoming a tobaccofree country by 2025.

By working together we can achieve meaningful, measurable, change.

To learn more about the Prevent Cancer Foundation, or how to reduce your cancer risk, please visit www.preventcancer.org.

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WASHINGTON S O C I A L D I A R Y around town﹐ red cross ball﹐ thearc’s wacky and whimsical tea﹐ over the moon and more!

Gala Chairwomen Joey Sloter and Anne Jacoboski at the Teach for America Gala. (Photo by Tony Powell)

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AROUND TOWN

More Extravagant Than Ever Movie stars, diplomats, philanthropists and other very social folk rally ’round the flags at the 58th annual International Red Cross Ball

BY DONNA SHOR

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n Palm Beach, as the procession of helpers, including Patty Myura, of limos inched along the ocean the general chairman, as well as boulevard to Donald Trump’s Marformer ball chairmen who served a-Lago Club, white pencils of light in an honorary capacity year: Michele and Howard Kessler, searched the sky — Hollywood Nancy and William Rollnick and premiere style — presaging an Kathryn and Leo Vecellio. over-the-top 58th International He also praised Bonnie American Red Cross Ball McElveen-Hunter, the first Actually, it was the underwoman ever to chair the the-top celebration that made the American Red Cross, and she in always-impressive event even more turn spoke of the organization’s outstanding this year, thanks to ongoing and emergency help, an extravagant newly glassed-in which the gala’s proceeds – this Dr. Robert Mackler, Lois Pope, Ball Chairman Patrick Park and Red Cross Chairman pavilion. On an otherwise soggy Bonnie McElveen-Hunter greet guests at the 58th annual year a record-breaking $1.2 night, the all-weather enclosure International Red Cross Ball in Palm Beach. (Courtesy photo) million – help to sustain. maximized use of the former Donald Trump welcomed leave, with a Russian baritone passionately smallish cocktail area around guests with his stunning wife Melania at singing “Moscow Nights” and an icy the pool, stretching it out to include the his side. vodka-dispensing “luge” beside two ample wide lawn, easily accommodating this As scenes from the 1956 movie “Around tables of caviar and blinis to wrap the year’s unprecedented throng of 700 guests, The World in 80 Days” were projected, heavenly eggs in. Oh joy! hundreds more than usual. one of its stars, Oscar-winning Shirley Inside the Grand Ballroom the How did The Donald know? Was it his MacLaine, took the stage to extol Clara usual one-jump-ahead of the market voodoo? traditional pomp and pageantry of the Barton, the “Angel of the Battlefield” nurse ball soon began. First, the U.S. Marines The enlargement allowed the evening’s presented colors, then came the processional and founder of the American Red Cross. expansive theme, “Around The World In MacLaine said she hoped she could get with diplomats, Red Cross dignitaries, 80 Days,” adequate space for 20 be-f lagged Trump to fund a film about Barton, and international celebrities and power figures international food stations with folkloric that she wanted very much to play the escorted by even more Marines down dancers, singers and models costumed to legendary lady. The well-known advocate the red carpet. Among the envoys from match, and housing the entire Palm Beach of reincarnation brought down the house Washington were Elena Poptodorova Symphony Orchestra with tenor Francesco Valpa, all under the glass big top.

(Bulgaria); Neal Parsan (Trinidad and when she said wistfully (if ungrammatically) Food stations served melt-in-your-mouth Tobago); Bozo Cerar (Slovenia); and a “Maybe I was her!”

William Shatner of “Star Trek” fame paid lovely and competent newcomer, Kurdistan squares of sautéed foie gras, Japanese sushi, tribute to his friend and co-star, Leonard Representative Bayan Sami Rahman, here German and Australian sausages, Brazilian after a successful 10-year posting to London. Nimoy, who had died the day before, and grouper seviche and dozens of other As Ball Chairman Patrick Park passed regretted that logistics had kept him from international dishes — and those were just by, guests at several tables rose to give attending Spock’s funeral the next day. the cocktail hour nibbles. him a standing ovation for the astonishing Long time Las Vegas headliner Wayne Before we reached that point, we passed Newton’s songs included his signature 1963 generosity and hands-on work that made through a salon with a melodic French hit “Danke Schoen” to prolonged applause. the event an unprecedented success. trio offering concoctions named “Apple “Every ten years it gets discovered again!”

Park, a businessman and noted Martinis.” (Shades of Calvados?) he told the crowd. philanthropist, made sure to thank a score Nearby was a room many found hard to

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Bulgarian Amb. Elena Poptodorova (right) enters with Georgi Petrov and military escort

Stuart Bernstein

Donald and Melania Trump

Wayne Newton and Shirley MacLaine WL EXCLUSIVE

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

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Kurdistan Regional Government Rep. Bayan Rahman and Mozaffar Shafeie

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Stations with food and flags from 20 nations

Guests pose with Brazilian samba dancer

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Lucky Roosevelt, Maestro Valery Gergiev, Susan Billinghurst and Susan Carmel Lehrman WL EXCLUSIVE

MARIINSKY THEATRE RECEPTION AND CONCERT Mar-a-Lago Club, Palm Beach, Fla. LUCIAN CAPEHART PHOTOGRAPHY

Emilia and Pepe Fanjul

LAVISH TRIBUTE: The flock of snow birds off to sunny Palm Beach had more than freezing weather as an excuse when they flew south for Susan Carmel Lehrman’s tribute honoring Maestro Valery Gergiev, the director of St. Petersburg’s legendary Mariinsky Theatre during its 2015 American Tour. Co-hosted by Lucky Roosevelt and fomer Metropolitan Opera official Sarah Billinghurst Solomon, the lavish event at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Club featured an extravagant buffet with caviar and Dom Perignon prior to a performance from company artists that featured works

by Rachmaninoff, Scriabin, Tchaikovsky and Prokofiev.

THAWING A CHILL: Remarks by the hosts and honorees focused on the importance of improving strained relations between the U.S. and Russia, with Lehrman capturing shared sentiments by quoting Dostoyevsky’s maxim that “Beauty will save the world.” The spirit of the evening was aptly noted by Bonnie McElveen Hunter, who charmed the crowd with the observation, “We are all Russians tonight.”

Arle and Carroll Mack with Ann Nitze

Christof Degoumois, Ildar Abdrazakov and Anita Kondoyanidi

Mandy and Mary Ourisman

Bob and Ellen Bennett

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Scott Snyder and Audrey Gruss

Otta Schmitt and Anka Palitz WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

Peter Krollenburg and Stephania Conrad

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Bob Hisaoka and Jim Abdo

Barbara Harrison and Katherine Bradley

Connie Carter and Gordon Dale

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TEACH FOR AMERICA GALA Omni Shoreham Hotel | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL EDUCATION NATION: Teach for America celebrated 23 years of service to the Washington, D.C. region at its annual gala where arecord-breaking $1.6 million was raised to benefit 40,000 students in local low-income communities. Educators and community leaders joined VIP guests who included D.C. school chancellor Kaya Henderson, ball chairmen Anne and Brian Jacoboski and Joey and Stan Sloter and long-time supporters Bob Hisaoka, Katherine and David Bradley and Christie and Je Weiss.

Anne Jacoboski, Kaya Henderson and Joey Sloter

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David Perlin and David Bradley

Jeff Weiss, Adele Fabrikant, Christie Weiss, Michael Widomski and David Hagedorn

MenSa Ankh Maa

Jennifer and Jake Tapper

Mark McFadden and Kay Kendall

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Chief Cathy Lanier

Sara Schaberg, Cindi Lackey and Tammie Collins

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Agnes Sallick and Elizabeth Miller

Alice Caroline with Carrie and Henry Marriott

Conner and June Herman with Marcia Wyatt and Wyatt Herman

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THEARC’S WACKY & WHIMSICAL TEA The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL HIGH TEA FOR KIDS: Entire families paraded into Georgetown on a Sunday afternoon for THEARC’s (Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus) sixth annual “Wacky and Whimsical Tea.” The fun-filled fête was chaired by Annie Lou Berman, Jessica Heywood and Elena Tompkins, with NBC4’s Eun Yang serving as honorary chairwoman. Parents and children alike enjoyed a variety of games and entertainment, including a performance

by Washington Ballet students, a magician and classic kids’ dances like “The HokeyPokey.” THEARC provides underserved children living east of the Anacostia River with reduced-cost or free arts programs, medical and dental care and other services.

Emeline Grennan and Magician Eric Henning

Nelly and Scottie Berman

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Ryan Ritz with Julia and Charlie Ghafouri David, Jayden and Dr. Marcee White

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Eun Yang with Edmund and Noelle Fleet

Sloane and Jacob Menkes

Elena Tompkins, Jessica Heywood and Annie Lou Berman

Washington Ballet dancers

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Greta Kreuz, Italian Amb. Claudio Bisogniero and Laura Denise Bisogniero

Marcelle Leahy, Sen. Patrick Leahy, Irish Amb. Anne Anderson and Bo Aldié

Dirk Kempthorne

Cathy Bennett and Brock Landry

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PREVENT CANCER SPRING GALA National Building Museum | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL HONORING IRELAND: The Prevent Cancer Foundation’s annual spring gala had European flair this year with an “Ireland: Legendary and Contemporary” theme. Emerald Isle-inspired details were abundant, from hundreds of white carnations dipped in green adorning the tables to Guinness Chocolate Delice for dessert. The event raised more than $1.6 million for cancer prevention and early detection. SMOKE-FREE NATION: Irish Amb.Anne Anderson, the event’s honorary patron, spoke about her country’s efforts to totally ban tobacco by 2025.

Danielle Burr and Hollyn Schuemann

Will and Mary Anderson

David Short and Christine Warnke

Wade and Nancy Berusch with Francine Friedman and Michael Grabowski

Ray Mahmood and Michael Chertoff

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Meryl Chertoff, Shaista Mahmood and Jennifer Griffin

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Suzie and Norm Dicks

Dena Battle and Marisa Randazzo

Adam Lauer Brown and Edward Garcia

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OVER THE MOON

Family Legacy The Wiley clan’s devotion to the Middleburg Spring Races spans four generations … and counting

BY VICKY MOON

C

onsider this: 1911 was the trophies are engraved. This includes year comedic actress Lucille the trophy for the $50,000 Temple Ball, playwright Tennessee Williams Gwathmey Hurdle Handicap. and television commentator Chet Stay tuned.Their children, Molly, Huntley were born. It was also 7, and Will, 4, are next up to carry on the birth year of the Middleburg the Middleburg Race traditions.

Spring Races, founded Before the races, be sure to stop by Daniel Cox at the National Sporting Library Sands, master of the and Museum to savor “Sporting Middleburg Hunt.

Accoutrements: The Still Lifes of First contested over Henry Koehler.” This intimate look Sands’ and a neighbor’s at the sporting paraphernalia of fox property outside of and stag hunting, racing, polo, fishing town, the event moved and shooting reflect this brilliant to its current venue at artist’s handsome observations.It’s Glenwood Park in 1932.A on view through May. grand cliff with box seats at Finally, Lynn Wiley has just Lynn Wiley (insert) serves as a director of the Middleburg Spring Races (Photo by Saskia the top overlooks the massive course listed “Broadview Manor,” an Paulssen, courtesy of the National Sporting Library & Museum) and, to this day, affords spectators a eight-bedroom, five-bath, circa clear view of the timber, brush, hurdle and flat the grounds. He’s served on the race board, 1932 stone Georgian residence on what once races. Always a favorite with generations of the saddled runners, been a clerk of scales, steward was the site of the original Virginia Gold old guard, the 95th edition of the event will take and patrol judge. “It’s a lot of work to make Cup Races. It’s offered at $1,595,000 from place this year on Saturday, April 18. sure it all goes smoothly,” he says. “It helps if Washington Fine Properties.

One long-time family, the Wileys, has been you have a good crew of officials and it’s also involved in the Middleburg races in many ways. a lot of fun.”

First came late horseman James Langhorne Big Jim Wiley’s other son, Jim Wiley, lives Wiley, who moved to the area in the early nearby at Alphen Cottage and fondly recalled 1940s after meeting Liz Altemus Whitney, attending the races for many years. His dynamo who had divorced the well-to-do John Hay wife, Lynn, is a member of the board of directors “Jock” Whitney. Wiley served as manager of of the spring races. She also devotes time to the socialite’s “Llangollen Farm” in Upperville the flower guild at Trinity Church, Piedmont for almost a decade.

Garden Club and the Piedmont Environmental “Big Jim” Wiley later met and married Council. In between, she rides with her niece Molly Flagler Lewis Pollard, a great niece of Elizabeth Wiley who has raced horses and industrialist Henry Morrison Flagler, in the now shows hunters. early 1960s and they made their home at “And that’s only part-time,” Lynn Wiley says. the circa 1850s “Gordonsdale” in The Plains. Her real job is as a full time associate broker with A respected thoroughbred horseman, Wiley Washington Fine Properties in Middleburg. regularly consigned top yearlings to the sales And then there’s the third generation of in Saratoga each August. He served as a patrol this family. Lewis and Helen Wiley’s daughter, judge at Middleburg and a trophy in his honor Sheila, recently moved into the main house was once part of the race card. at “Gordonsdale” with her husband Martin His son, Lewis Wiley, followed as a trainer Harrell. She works in the race office several The Temple Gwathmey Trophy is awarded to the winner of the $50,000 Hurdle Handicap at the Middleburg and sales agent based at the now 900-acre mornings a week sending out invitations, Spring Races (Photo by Vicky Moon) “Gordonsdale,” where he lives in a cottage on managing reservations and making sure the

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Billy Karlin and Matt Ward

John and Kristin Cecchi with Brad and Callie Nierenberg

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CHANCE FOR LIFE TENTH ANNIVERSARY Teresa Davis

Sphinx Club | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL POKER FACES: More than 200 guests braved a snowy day for a 13-hour poker tournament to benefit Chance for Life’s fight against pediatric cancer. The annual charity event, now in its tenth year, raises funds and awareness for pediatric spinal cord cancer research and this year, for Alex’s Lemonade Stand. Numerous media personalities and sports stars were in attendance, including Will Thomas, Brian Mitchell, Teresa Davis, Jim Vance and Sarah Fraser. With Taylor Gourmet and Spike Mendelsohn providing food to fuel the poker players and plenty of drinks flowing, more than $230,000 was raised. Joe Nichols was the biggest winner, taking home $10,000 plus a seat at the 2015 World Series Poker tournament in Las Vegas.

Julia Ghafouri and Olga Jaeckel

Will Thomas

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Emily Cline, Alexis Blackwell and Amira Ward

Giuseppe Lanzone, Fran Holuba, Alicia Decatur and Lauren Burke

Pamela Sorensen and Doug Dixon Joe Nichols and Kennedy Snyder

Jessica and Dean Bonaroti

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Emily Lorenz, Vijay Swamy and Amy O’Shea

Lauren Kennedy and Caroline Westerman

Ruta and Sean Johnson

Meredith Miller, Molly Nesbitt and Caitlin Taylor

SOME JUNIOR GALA

Keith Carr, Zach Dugan and Chris Brimsek

James and Deirdre Hague, Julie Anne McKeachie, Brittany McCall and Lawrence Kluttz

National Museum of Women in the Arts | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL DANCING THE NIGHT AWAY: Dancing to the rhythm-and-blues music of the Blue Tips Rhythm Revue and enjoying specialty drinks and bites, guests at the So Others Might Eat (SOME) Junior Gala had ample reason to celebrate. The 12th annual black-tieoptional gala was held for the first time at the National Museum of Women in the Arts, and raised a record-breaking $300,000 for families living in two of SOME’s affordable apartments, the veterans housing complex Fendall Heights and the Harry and Jeane e Weinberg Building for formerly homeless families. Silent auction items included Valentines Day packages and an autographed Jordan Zimmerman jersey. Young enough to keep the night going, guests continued festivities at the Huxley a er-party.

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Jeb Berry, Kayla Kaull and Molly Colehower

Donald and Filomena Lococo

Diana Goldberg and Pam King Sams Mike and Kathie Williams

HEROES CURING CHILDHOOD CANCER GALA

Martha Quinn, Elizabeth Kaufman and Caroline King

Four Seasons Hotel, Georgetown | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Dr. Kurt Newman and Alison Newman

WINTER WARRIORS: More than 250 guests braved freezing temperatures and a late February snowstorm to a end the Children’s National Medical Center’s 7th annual Heroes Curing Childhood Cancer gala. Dr. Kurt Newman, president and CEO of Children’s National, and CNMC Board Chairman Mike Williams mingled with young cancer survivors and their families along with benefactors who helped raise m,ore than $726,000 to support cu ing-edge research in the fight against childhood cancer.

Paul and Hope Adkins

Peter King and Jana Kansky VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM

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Elise Hu and Jason Beaubien

Ann Patchett, Maureen Corrigan and Libby Currier

Brakkton Booker, Audie Cornish, Linda Wertheimer and Eric Deggans

NPR’S WEEKEND IN WASHINGTON The Willard InterContinental Hotel | PHOTOS BY JAY SNAP

Richard Weil, Paul Haaga Jr., Heather Sturt Haaga, Gordon Bolar, Michel Martin and Tim Eby

RADIO ROYALTY: Fans of public radio were in for a treat at National Public Radio’s annual “Weekend in Washingtonâ€? where award-winning journalists, leaders from member stations and supporters from across the country gathered to discuss topics ranging from world aairs and domestic policy to social media and music. Speakers included “All Things Consideredâ€? host Melissa Block,“The Daily Showâ€?’s Aasif Mandvi, “Morning Editionâ€? host David Greene, StoryCorps founder Dave Isay and novelist Ann Patche . Guests also enjoyed the opportunity to tour NPR headquarters and chat with “Weekend Editionâ€? host Sco Simon.

Pamela and Jarl Mohn VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM

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PARTIES PARTIES PARTIES

Famed conductors, French restaurateurs, excellent teachers and animal lovers VIEW ALL THE PHOTOS AT WWW WASHINGTONLIFE COM!

BASTILLE OPENING BASTILLE RESTAURANT (Photos by Tony Brown) Alexandria restaurant Bastille celebrated its new location with a grand re-opening reception. The French restaurant, run by husband and wife team Michelle and Christophe Poteaux, is now located at 606 N. Faye e St. Guests including Alexandria Mayor Bill Euille enjoyed drinks and specialty bites from the menu.

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SALUTE TO EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION GALA

1. Exterior of the restaurant

NATIONAL BUILDING MUSEUM

2. Mayor Bill Euille with Melissa and Je Webb

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3. Michelle and Christophe Poteaux

(Photos courtesy Fotobriceno Photography) The NEA Foundation held its annual gala to honor top educators. Teacher Terri Butts received the Member BeneďŹ ts Award for Teaching Excellence and $25,000. Awardwinning children’s author Walter Dean Myers, honored posthumously, and his son, author/ illustrator Christopher Myers, were awarded the First National Bank of Omaha Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education for their lifelong contributions to children’s literature.

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6. Megan Chichester and Mark Howard Chichester 7. Student show choir, The Counterpoints, directed by Michael Raunik

NSO CONCERT WITH CHRISTOPH ESCHENBACH

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8. Gary Phoebus, Terri Butts and Harriet Sanford

GERMAN AMBASSADOR’S RESIDENCE (Photos courtesy Zacarias Garcia)

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Supporters and fans of the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) enjoyed an intimate dinner and concert with performances by NSO principals conducted by Maestro Christoph Eschenbach. The evening was hosted by German Amb. Peter Wittig. Guests enjoyed a performance of works by Beethoven and Brahms before dinner. Eschenbach is musical director of both the NSO and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

4. Justice Samuel Alito, Maestro Christoph Eschenbach and German Amb. Peter Wi ig

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5. Huberta von Voss-Wi ig, Rep. Elijah Cummings and Maya Rockeymoore

SUGAR & CHAMPAGNE AFFAIR RONALD REAGAN BUILDING AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTER (Photos by Erica Moody) Dogs and their humans mingled at the Washington Humane Society’s annual Sugar & Champagne Affair to benefit local crusaders against animal cruelty. Hosts Todd Gray and Ellen Kassoff Gray of Equinox restaurant greeted guests while radio personality Tommy McFly spoke about adopting dogs from the Humane Society. There was no shortage of treats for guests of all breeds, including the popular Pooch-inis from Shake Shack.

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9. Liz Sara and Duncan Smith with pup, Crystal 10. Inside the Atrium of the Reagan Building

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HOME LIFE Real Estate News and Open House I Inside Homes and My Washington

4IEGI SJ ,SQI Courtney Cox and Chris William Cox spent the last nine years creating an attractive and inviting home for a family that survived cancer

BY LAURA WAINMAN PHOTOS BY JOSEPH ALLEN

HOME LIFE | INSIDE HOMES

he words “haven,” “oasis” and “sanctuary” are frequently overused when discussing dream houses.

But for a woman who has spent the better part of two years living in hospitals with her sick 5-year-old son, they are the only words that come close to describing how she feels when walking through her own front door.

Interior designer and Ivy Lane Living co-owner Courtney Cox bought her Colonial house in Alexandria with her husband, Chris William Cox (not pictured), in 2006, long before either her son or the dreaded “C” word entered her life. The decision to buy was a no-brainer as Courtney had grown up in a house just up the street where her parents still live. She loved its positioning at the end of the street and its superior lot. But the kicker was the front door, which happened to be pink.

“I just found it so charming, this little house with a pink door,” Courtney says.

Shortly after deciding to renovate, however, the exterior walls began moving and the couple knew they would have to change course.

“We only had one choice, if we wanted a solid house,” Courtney recalls. “We had to tear it all down and rebuild.

But it actually gave me the chance to build my dream house when I wasn’t even expecting it.”

She spent the next two years creating what she calls a “modern take on a traditional home,. They moved in three months after her first born, Carter, arrived. Now, the Cox clan also includes 2-year-old Virginia and two furry companions. For Courtney, modernity means a light, airy

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PREVIOUS PAGE (clockwise from top left): The secretary, from Tone on Tone in Bethesda, is one of Courtney’s favorite pieces — a surprise anniversary gift from her husband who said he would never buy pink furniture; Light fixtures, including those in the kitchen, are

by Neirmann Weeks; Courtney’s trick to keeping her neutral home clean with two small kids is using indoor-outdoor fabrics and slipcovers; Most of the family’s art collection is by Hunt Slonem, including the bunny prints, which Courtney calls her family portrait.

THIS PAGE (clockwise from top left): Carter’s baby cup sits next to his father’s antique baby cup in the living room as a way of incorporating family history into the decor; The foyer was originally the living room when they bought the house; The dining room table is where you can most explicitly see Courtney’s love of nature, as the legs of the table are made from real tree root bases finished with a white zinc paint; Vintage animal posters framed in burled wood, one of his grandfathers trophies hanging on the wall and an antique dresser create a “throw back” feel in Carter’s room; Courtney thinks she might have a subconscious love of pink that she has never addressed as it is her go-to pop of color.

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environment to keep them all happy in the winter with an open living, kid-friendly design.

Courtney revealed that her trick for maintaining a house rooted in such neutral coloring with young children was relying on indoor/outdoor fabrics and cute slipcovers that can be removed and easily laundered.

“I try not to have too much clutter around, and instead let things like light fixtures, mirrors or our art collection be our statement pieces,” she says. “Those are the touches that really give a home personality and make it special.”

Though Courtney is drawn to neutrals for a clean, crisp look, she allows pops of colors sprinkled throughout each room to add dimension. The pink secretary in the living room, a surprise anniversary gift from her husband, or the buttercup yellow ottoman in the family room, add an accent of color without straying too far from the soft, creamy palette.

With two active, giggling kids running about, closely followed by Baylor, their beloved long-haired miniature dachshund puppy, Courtney seamlessly juggles requests for “cooked eggies” and wipes cookie-stained mouths while discussing her gorgeous Neirmann Weeks chandeliers. Rather than chaotic, the house feels elegant but thoroughly livable, proper yet cozy. It’s exactly the right environment for a family that has been through the battle of cancer and is just coming out the other side.

“We are still in the thick of things, but not like we were last year,” Courtney says with a slight tremor in her voice. “Carter lived in a bubble for an entire year and we didn’t go out at all. It’s why our family time is so critical.”

Puzzles on the family room’s wood floor and games, including Carter’s favorite, “Spider Man Chutes and Ladders,” dominate most of that family time.

“Honestly, sometimes it’s nice to just be in the same room, all doing our own thing with no immediate pressing needs,” Courtney. says “It’s great that the kids are at an age now where my husband and I can be reading, or talking and they are playing Legos together.”

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HOME LIFE | OPEN HOUSE

Architectural Array A variety of impressive properties are on the market this month

GEORGETOWN WATERFRONT WATER STREET NW PH H WASHINGTON DC

ASKING PRICE: $6,500,000

Breathtaking views abound from this three bedroom, three-bath plus den penthouse featuring a nearly 1,500-square-foot private roof terrace in one LISTING AGENT: Jonnie Jamison, of Georgetown’s most exclusive and sought-after condominium buildings.

703-568-5085, Situated directly on Georgetown’s waterfront, this home is mere steps from Beasley Real the city’s finest shopping, dining and outdoor attractions, and is a commuter’s Estate dream located just minutes from downtown and Reagan National Airport.

The residence includes two parking spaces, two storage spaces, a rooftop pool, fitness center, community room and 24-hour concierge and doorman services.

SPRING VALLEY

LOUGHBORO ROAD NW WASHINGTON DC

This magnificent manor home is a private estate in the heart of the city. The handsome stone façade is evocative of an English country home, surrounded by beautiful mature gardens and private terraces on nearly one acre of grounds.The spacious sunlit public rooms have high ceilings and expansive windows overlooking the gardens. Upstairs features six private bedroom suites and three studies.

ASKING PRICE: $5,650,000 LISTING AGENT: Margot Wilson, 202-549-2100; Washington Fine Properties

AYRLAWN HARVEST SQUARE COURT POTOMAC MD

One of the premier estates in Potomac, “Ayrlawn” holds an elegant and storied place in the history of Maryland and the Nation’s Capital. Custom-built for a prominent ambassador, this Classical Georgian Revival later served as the 2006 National Symphony Orchestra Decorator Show House.The current owner, an internationally-known executive, purchased the property in 2007 and through collaboration with a top designer and master craftsmen has overseen another incomparable renovation. Still retaining its stately elegance, this house features truly sophisticated décor with state-of-the-art technology.

ASKING PRICE: Call for pricing LISTING AGENT: Hans Wydler, 301-640-5701; Wydler Brothers of Long & Foster Real Estate Inc

WOODLAND COTTAGE

SHADY LANE HOT SPRINGS VA

The Woodland Cottage is a historic home nestled inside the gates of America’s premier mountain resort, The Homestead. Situated on nearly two acres of wooded land, this truly unique 6,500-squarefoot Arts & Crafts-style retreat has six bedrooms, seven and one half bathrooms and features exquisite details throughout.Woodland’s many local amenities include golf, hot springs, tennis and fine dining.

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ASKING PRICE: $2,295,000 LISTING AGENT: Andrea Courduvelis, 703-307-3170, Donna Dorsey, 540-538-4118; TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

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HOME LIFE | REAL ESTATE NEWS

Greek,Victorian and Federal - Oh My! Historic properties sell for handsome prices in the District.

BY STAC E Y G R A Z I E R P FA R R

O STREET NW, the former Georgetown residence of Ellen Willis Martin and her late husband of 47 years, Williams S. Martin III, a retired Army lieutenant colonel and computer consulting entrepreneur, sold for $5 million to O STREET LLC. The one-of-a-kind 1920 Greek Revival features spacious entertaining spaces and original details including 13-foot ceilings on all three levels, a double parlor, library, formal dining room, wine cellar and stunning garden. Washington Fine Properties’ Jamie Peva was the listing agent; Heidi Hatfield, also of Washington Fine Properties, represented the buyer

THE DISTRICT

the-art amenities. Washington Fine Properties’

Cartus Financial Corporation sold Q William F. X. Moody, Robert Hryniewicki, STREET NW, a posh Victorian four-bedroom Adam Rackliffe and Christopher R. Leary

house on one of Dupont Circle’s best blocks for $2.8 million to The Bruce Cohen Revocable Trust. The classic 1890 townhouse was dramatically renovated to maintain the scale and charm of the original floor plan as well as update the property to include the very latest state-of-

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were the listing agents while the buying team of Anne Hatfield Weird, Heidi Hatfield, Andrea Hatfield and Tammy Gale of Washington Fine Properties represented buyers.

Marc Montagner and Mary Kae Larose sold P STREET NW in Georgetown

for $2,925,000 to Edward Grubb . Mr. Montagner is the CFO of LightSquared, a locally headquartered technology company specializing in satellite communication. The circa 1813 four-bedroom Federal features period details, a large rear garden and a garage. The property boasts beautiful pine floors, four fireplaces and a large renovated kitchen opening to a family room and patio.

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HOME LIFE | REAL ESTATE NEWS

Washington Fine Properties Nancy Taylor Bubes was the listing agent while Anne Weir, also of Washington Fine Properties, was the buyer’s agent.

MARYLAND James and Suzanne Rianhard bought FALSTONE AVENUE in Chevy Chase from The Charlotte Perret Family Trust for $3 million.The six-bedroom, award-winning Hugh Newell Jacobson dream house built by Anthony Wilder is a unique structure with two pavilions joined by a central living area. Integrated sound and lighting technology, a gourmet kitchen with custom red cabinetry and a sun porch with vaulted ceilings are among its many features. Long & Foster’s Hans Wydler was the listing agent while Washington Fine Properties’ Elizabeth Lavette represented the buyer.

Another Chevy Chase charmer at CEDAR PARKWAY fetched $3,175,000 when it passed from Jonathan and Elizabeth Legg to buyers Patrick and Erin Dorton. Mr. Legg is a financial advisor for Morgan Stanley. Mr. Dorton is a partner at the District-based strategy firm Rational 360 and Mrs. Dorton is a managing director at Prime Policy Group. Set amid mature trees on a quiet lane, this splendid residence was built in 1932 and designed for graceful living entertaining and comfortable living. The house has been meticulously expanded and updated to surpass today’s expectations with six bedrooms,

William C.T. Gaynor II purchased HILLBROOK LANE NW in Spring Valley from the Estate of John D. Reilly for $2,075,000. The whitewashed 1941 brick Colonial sits in a cul-de-sac and includes over 6,000 square feet of living space on four levels. The back deck overlooks an expansive yard and tranquil pool surrounded by well maintained landscaping. Washington Fine Properties’ William F.X. Moody and Adam T. Rackliffe were the listing agents; Robert Hryniewicki and Christopher R. Leary were the buyer’s agents.

also of Sotheby’s, who represented the buyer.

The brand new JK Home is a mannered English country estate on one of Northern Virginia’s most prestigious streets. Very fine detail work features the finest materials and VIRGINIA finishes and a floor plan that is perfect for Bespole Builder sold John J. Gilece gracious entertaining. The main level opens to TURKEY RUN ROAD in McLean for a covered porch with fireplace, stone terrace $4,065,309 with the help of TTR Sotheby’s and spacious yard backing to trees that ensure listing agent Penny Yerks and Michael Moore, the utmost privacy. five full bathrooms and three half baths on four levels. TTR Sotheby’s International Realty’s Christie-Anne Weiss was the listing agent; Keller Williams’ Thomas Drury was the buyer’s agent.

PROPERTY LINES DEJA VU IN GEORGETOWN: After selling for more than $500,000 more than the asking price last fall — in four days no less — P STREET NW is now back on the market for $3,675,000. Washington Fine Properties’ Nancy Taylor Bubes represents the owners, listed as LRE LLC, who are now expecting their second child and find the 5,000-square-foot Georgian Revival in the heart of Georgetown somewhat cramped with the full time staff of three and not enough parking. The six-bedroom residence, which last fetched a cool $4 million, was built in 1959 and includes four floors of light filled, open living space with premium finishes throughout. A gourmet chef’s kitchen, sumptuous master suite with luxury bath, basement in-law suite and private patio are among the property’s many amenities.

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PENTHOUSE STUNNER: Beasley Real Estate’s Jonnie Jamison listed PENTHOUSE H in Georgetown’s much-coveted condominium building at WATER STREET NW. The three-bedroom unit offered at $6.5 million boasts breathtaking views and a nearly 1,500square-foot private roof terrace. The listing includes two garage parking spaces, two storage units, a rooftop pool, fitness center and community room plus 24-hour concierge and doorman services.

BEAUTY AND THE B&B: The William Lewis House (currently a B&B made up of two classic Victorian row houses at R STREET NW and R STREET NW is listed for sale for 2.5 million and $3.5 million, respectively. They are also available to be sold together for

$6,000,000. The one at 1309 R Street NW was built in 1877 by H. H. Bates, while 1313 R Street NW was constructed in 1904 by William Lewis. David Holder, the current owner of both properties, purchased 1309 R nearly 30 years ago and meticulously restored the original woodwork, doors, gas lanterns, chandeliers, fireplaces and even the butler’s switchboard of the buildings (which total 7,220 square feet).

Both properties boast six bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. The house at 1313 R Street NW includes a four-car garage and the adjacent lot; 1309 R Street NW has a two-car garage. The Alex Venditti Group of Compass Real Estate is listing these unique historic houses.

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MY WASHINGTON Eric Schaeffer, co-founder and artistic director, Signature Theatre

BY KEVIN CHAFFEE

nder Eric Schaeffer’s direction for the past 25 years, Studio Theatre has emerged as one of the nation’s outstanding companies and has been the recipient of 90 Helen Hayes Awards and 368 nominations for theater excellence.

Schaeffer is also active on Broadway, where he directed the critically acclaimed “Follies” and three other Tony-awardwinning plays, “Million Dollar Quartet, “Glory Days” and “Putting It Together.”

WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT AS ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF SIGNATURE THEATRE? The fact that Signature has touched so many people as artists or audience members. Theater and art can change lives, open doors to new ideas and make us look at ourselves in a different way. To be able to do that for 25 years and still make a difference makes me very proud.

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WHAT IS THE HARDEST THING ABOUT RUNNING A THEATER COMPANY? The endless hours and passion it takes. It’s more than just putting on a show — it’s the audience experience, the staff, the board, the community — all of them are an important part of running the theater. It’s never been a 40-hour-aweek job in the 25 years I’ve been there.

WHY HAVE YOU DEVOTED SO MUCH EFFORT EXPLORING WORKS BY STEPHEN SONDHEIM AND KANDEF & EBB? They are artists that I love and admire. I also think the subjects they chose to musicalize are challenging, fresh and exciting. Their work is groundbreaking and continues to excite us because you can find so many layers in their writing HOW DO YOU ALSO MANAGE TO PURSUE PROJECTS ON BROADWAY? It takes a lot of time and organization but I’ve always said, “You can sleep when you’re dead.”

I’m lucky I have lots of energy to get everything done, but it makes for early mornings and long nights.

WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO? I’ll be directing “Beaches” in Chicago in June and then “Girlstar” at Signature — a world premiere musical that I’ve been working on for the past two years. I’m also working on a big new Broadway musical for 2017 but can’t announce the title yet.

MY TOP SPOTS 1. Ayer’s Hardware (5853 Washington Blvd.

Arlington) My favorite store is a treasure trove that has everything from hardware and house wares to candy from your childhood days. It’s been a family run business for years and has the great mom-and-pop feel of yesterday.

2. The Lincoln Memorial at night. There is no better place to capture the beauty of the city than sitting on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial at night. I love to just go and capture the stillness of it all and people watch.

3. Joe’s Stone Crab (750 15th St. NW) Located in an old bank building, the restaurant has great food, including the famous stone crabs, and they mix a good cocktail as well. The energy and vibe is fun and it’s always filled with interesting people.

4. Shirlington has to be on my lists of favorites with the great variety of restaurants and of course Signature Theatre.

5. Sam Beckett’s Pub (2800 S. Randolph St., Arlington) is where you will find the actors having a beer or two after the show.

6. The Old Ebbitt Grill (675 15th St. NW) is a Washington institution which every president has visited since Teddy Roosevelt. The happy hour has great deals from the raw bar and the service is always great 7. With my crazy schedule, I enjoy just going to my own house in North Arlington and having some time to myself. Designed by Richard Gomersall, the architect who did Signature’s Garage Theatre in the ’90s, it’s a one-of-a-kind place.

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