Washington Life Magazine - September 2019

Page 1

The most illustrious 2019/2020 social events

+ GRAND WEDDINGS: An NFL Player, Prominent Media Figures, and Trendsetters exchange vows INSIDE HOMES: CNN correspondent Dana Bash’s oasis Glamorous FASHION: Couture Gowns, Sparkly Statement Accessories and Tips for the Modern Well-Dressed Man

62

22 102

'328)287 SEPTEMBER 2019

EDITOR'S LETTER

FEATURES BALLS & GALAS (see index next page) ............. WEDDINGS. ................................................. Ana Navarro and Al Cardenas .............................. Angel Elliott and Bobby Massie............................. Laura Kraisenger and Eric Shih ............................. Jennifer Millard and Ryan Lopez .......................... Errol Barnett and Ariana Tolbert ............................

FYIDC EDITOR'S PICKS .......................................... SUMMER TRAVEL ......................................

LIFE OF THE PARTY The Washington Ballet Gala ................................. Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens Gala ............. Hirshhorn Ball ..................................................

Phillips Collection Gala ....................................... Washington National Opera Gala ........................

POLLYWOOD Vital Voices and Diane Von Furstenburg ..................

EMBASSY ROW Bicycle Diplomacy .................

HOLLYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC ................................... Foundation for Art & Preservation in Embassies ....... Michael Kahn Farewell ........................................ College to Congress Summer Soiree ........................

LIFESTYLES DRINKS Endless Summer Cocktails .......................

WELLNESS The Skinny on CBD ...................... TRAVEL Amusement Park Adrenaline Rush ......... TRENDS Green dresses & Sid Mashburn Tips ..........

FASHION Sitting Pretty ...................................

SPORTS Audi Field and Soccer's Future Stars .......

WASHINGTON SOCIAL DIARY OVER THE MOON ...................................... Chesapeake Bay Soiree ........................................ Jean-Louis Palladin Tribute Dinner............................ RAMMY Awards ................................................ Imagination Stage Festival ....................................

BOOK PARTIES ...........................................

Step Afrika! 25th Anniversary Gala ......................... WildAid Fundraiser .............................................. District Polo Cup................................................

14

Sandy Hook Promise Champions Gala ...................... By the People Arts Festival ................................... FAIRGirls Vida Home Anniversary .......................

PARTIES PARTIES PARTIES .........................

HOME LIFE INSIDE HOMES CNN'S Dana Bash.................. HOME TRENDS ............................................ REAL ESTATE NEWS ...................................

OPEN HOUSE ............................................... MY WASHINGTON Virginia Ali .......................

117

COVER: National Portrait Gallery's 'American Portrait Gala' hosts: Randi Levine, Susanna Quinn and Kristin Cecchi at The National Portrait Gallery (Photo by Tony Powell). TOP FROM LEFT: The Washington Ballet Gala's Sara Lange and Ashley Taylor Bronczek with TWB Company dancers at the Falls / TTR Sotheby's International Realty (Photo by Tony Powell), Audi field (Photo courtesy D.C. United); WEDDINGS: Angel Elliott and Bobby Massie at Piney River Ranch in Vail, Colo. (Photo by Stanley Babb, Stanlo Photography); OSCAR DE LA RENTA Billiard bag ($1,990); FASHION photo shot at the Wardman Tower (Photo by Luis Aragon); Tiki TNT cocktail (Photo by Jonathan Thorpe).

4

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

&%007 +%0%7 (-6)'836= -2()< WA S H I N G T O N ' S T O P E V E N T S , 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 A Adoptions Together's Taste in Potomac.........................

Georgetown University Lombardi Women Gala ............

A Vinrage Affair: A Night of Fine Wine & Food Pairings Benefiting Children's National ...........

Government Executive Media Group's Inaugural Government Hall of Fame Gala ..................

A Wider Circle's Community Ball ............................

H

National Italian American Foundation Gala ................

Academy of United States Veterans' Vetrans Day Gala .....................................

Halcyon Awards ..................................................

National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Ball.................

Haymakers For Hope ............................................

National Multiple Sclerosis Society's Ambassadors Ball ...

Academy of the United States Veterans Foundation Vetty Awards.............................

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

National Multiple Sclerosis Society's On the Move Luncheon .........................................

National Cancer Research Foundation's Daffodils & Diamonds Luncheon and Fashion Show ..................... National Children's Museum Opening Celebration Gala

Alianta Gala.......................................................

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens' Roaring Twenties Gala ...........................................

Alliance Française of Washington's Fashion Show ..........

Human Rescue Alliance's Bark Ball ..........................

National Symphony Orchestra Season-Opening Gala ....

Allison Gala .......................................................

Human Rights Campaign National Dinner ................

Alvin Ailey American Dance Opening Night Gala Benefit ...................................

Human Rights Campaign Foundation's 'Chefs for Equality' ..............................

Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program's Ride To Thrive Polo Classic ........................

American Veterans Ball...........................................

I

ARTSFAIRFAX'S Annual Arts Awards ...................

Imagination Stage's Winter Ball................................

Atlas Corps Diversity and Inclusion Gala ...................

An Evening To Benefit Innocents At Risk ...................

B

Inova Honors Dinner.............................................

Boys & Girls Club NationalYouth of TheYear Celebration .........................................................

Institute for Policy Studies Letelier-Moffitt Awards .........

C Capital Caring's Passion For Caring'Gala ..................

Chance For Life's Poker Tournament & Taste Experience . Chance for Life Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month Poker Tournament .........................

National Portrait Gallery's American Portrait Gala ........

O Orchestra of the Americas Awards Gala.......................

P PEN/Faulkner Gala: Rise Up! ...............................

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

International HorseShow President's Cup Party ............

R

International Student House of Washington's Global Leadership Awards Dinner ...........

Rock Creek Conservancy Gala ................................

International Women's Media Foundation's Courage in Journalism Awards Dinner ....................... Iranian American Medical Society Mehregan Ball ..........

Records of Achievement Award .................................

S Salvation Army Women's Auxilary of Washington, DC's 70th Anniversary Fashion Show ......

Children's Ball.....................................................

J

Shakespeare Theatre Company Gala..........................

Choral Arts Society of Washington's Holiday Concert & Gala ........................................

J Street Gala .......................................................

Smithsonian Food History Gala ...............................

Joan Hisaoka Make a Difference Gala .......................

S.O.M.E. (So Others Might Eat) Gala .....................

K Kennedy Center Honors ........................................

Southeast Tennis & Learning Center's 25... And Still We Thrive 25-Year Celebration of The Recreation Wish List Committee.........................

Community of Hope's Night of Hope ........................

Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize For American Honor .............................................

T

Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute's Angels in Adoption Gala...............

Knock Out Abuse Against Women Gala.....................

Teach for America's Leadership Changing Lives Gala .....

CityDance DREAM Gala 2020 ............................ College Success Foundation-D.C.'s Breakfast Fundraiser . Colorectal Cancer Alliance's Blue Hope Bash ...............

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Celebrate Every Breath Gala ...................................

Thurgood Marshall College Fund Awards Gala ............

L Lab School of Washington Gala ................................

THEARC AfterDark ...........................................

D

Light Up The Season.............................................

Transformer Silent Auction & Benefit Party..................

Dancing After Dark ..............................................

M

V

D.C. Chamber of Commerce Awards & Gala ..............

Make-A-Wish Mid-Atlantic Evening of Wishes ...........

Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards .......................

DC's Dancing Stars Gala ......................................

March of Dimes' Heroines of Washington ....................

W

DC Shorts Film Festival ........................................

March of Dimes' Signature Chefs Auction ...................

Washington Area Women's Foundation Leadership Luncheon..............................

F

Meet The NEWZDUDES ...................................

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

Mentor International's 25thYear Anniversary ...............

Fight For Children Fight Night 2019 .......................

MetroCooking DC ...............................................

Flicks4Change Film Festival ...................................

Meridian Ball ......................................................

Friends of the National Arboretum Dinner...................

Middleburg Film Festival ........................................

Found in Translation: Art & Seoul.............................

Museum of The Bible's Couture Luncheon and Fashion Show ...................................

G Georgetown Comprehensive Cancer Center's Lombardi Gala ...............................

6

Washington Ballet Gala ......................................... Washington Ballet Nutcracker Tea Party...................... Washington Ballet's Grand Jeté Soirée ........................ Washington Business Hall of Fame Gala .................... Washington Winter Show Preview Night .................... Wolf Trap Ball .....................................................

N

Wooly Mammoth's Dinner on Stage ..........................

National Archives' Records of Achievement Award..........

William H.Webster Distinguished Service Award Dinner

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

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

SAVE THE DATE PEN/FAULKNER FOUNDATION’S

2019 ANNUAL GALA Saturday, October 26, 2019 6:30 pm—Cocktails 7:30 pm—Readings and Dinner Program

SENIOR EDITOR

Kevin Chaffee MANAGING EDITOR

Catherine Trifiletti ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Dara Klatt CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Roland Flamini ASSISTANT EDITOR

Katelyn Rutt COLUMNISTS AND CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

RISE UP!

Ten thought-provoking writers, including Alice McDermott, Francine Prose, and Nell Freudenberger in one spectacular evening

Janet Donovan, Steve Houk,Vicky Moon, Stacey Grazier Pfarr and Donna Shor ART DIRECTOR

Matt Rippetoe PRINCIPAL PHOTOGRAPHER

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Calvin Trillin, BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! The Gala is dedicated to the memory of Donald A.Brown and a tribute to the Honorable Ann Brown

GALA CHAIR Willee Lewis

CO-CHAIRS

ÂˆĂƒ> Ă€i˜˜>˜ >ÀÀÞ U Ă•Â?ˆi Ć‚Ă€ĂŒÂ…Ă•Ă€ >Ă€Vˆ>

>Â?i i iLÛÀi U >ĂŒÂ…iĂ€ÂˆÂ˜i ˆiÂ?` -ĂŒiÂŤÂ…i˜ Ć‚Â˜Â˜Âˆi -ˆ“œ˜ˆ>˜ /ÂœĂŒ>Â… U >ĂžÂ˜i 6ÂˆĂƒĂƒiĂ€ William Dunlap

HONORARY CO-CHAIR

Tony Powell CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Joy Asico, Ben Droz, Alfredo Flores, Larry French, Naku Mayo,Kyle Samperton, Erin Schaff, Jay Snap, Amanda Warden and Brian Wilson

PUBLISHER & CEO

Soroush Richard Shehabi SALES AND MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE

John Arundel BOOKKEEPER

Tomeka Tolson WEB TECHNOLOGIES DEVELOPMENT

Eddie Saleh,Triposs Mihail Iliev LEGAL

Mason Hammond Drake, Akerman, LLP

-i˜>ĂŒÂœĂ€ *>ĂŒĂ€ÂˆVÂŽ i>Â…Ăž U -i˜>ĂŒÂœĂ€ ÂˆĂƒ> Ă•Ă€ÂŽÂœĂœĂƒÂŽÂˆ EDITORIAL INTERNS

BENEFIT COMMITTEE

Ć‚Â˜ÂœÂ˜ĂžÂ“ÂœĂ•Ăƒ Âœ>Ă€` i“LiĂ€ U 7i˜`Ăž i˜VÂ…Â?iĂž >˜` œ…˜ iÂŤÂŤĂƒÂœÂ˜ U -Â…>˜˜œ˜ >ÂˆĂ€L>Â˜ÂŽĂƒ >˜` /Â…ÂœĂ€ >Â?Ă›ÂœĂ€ĂƒÂœÂ˜ U ,i˜ii >˜` -ĂŒiÂŤÂ…i˜ >Ă€`˜iĂ€ U ˆ“ˆ >˜` ,ˆVÂ…>Ă€` ÂœĂ•ĂƒĂŒÂœĂ•Â˜ U >Â?i i iLÛÀi U /Ă€>VĂž >˜` Ă€i} V ˆÂ?Â?ÂˆĂ›>ÀÞ U >˜VĂž >˜` -ˆ“œ˜ -ˆ`>“œ˜‡ Ă€ÂˆĂƒĂŒÂœvv U >Ăž i˜`>Â?Â? >˜` >VÂŽ >Ă›ÂˆiĂƒ U >“iĂƒ >Â?i 6Q CFF [QWT PCOG VQ VJG $GPGĆ‚V %QOOKVVGG RNGCUG EQPVCEV 5JCJGPFC *GNO[ CV|UJCJGPFC"RGPHCWNMPGT QTI|QT

Lauryn Cantrell, Max Harwood, Kaitlyn Hopkins and Georgia Slater

FOUNDER

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 Š2011 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

FALL GRANDEUR & MAGNANIMITY WASHINGTON LIFE

‘S VACAYS

Managing Editor Catherine Trifiletti in Oregon’s Wilamette Valley

Associate Editor Dara Klatt and her family at Bethany Beach

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

Assistant Editor Katelyn Rutt in the Virgin Islands

10

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

P H OTO AT B E T H AN Y B E AC H BY T I FFAN Y CA L DW E L L P H OTO GRAP H Y

I

love summertime cotton dresses, a makeup-free face and flat slide sandals during heat wave weeks as much as anyone. But as September has arrived, our “Balls & Galas” issue is on my mind as our readers return from vacations in so many wonderful places. Soon we are all thinking about fine Fall attire and formal wear as we settle in to the social swirl with old and new friends alike. I am in awe of the gala co-hosts whom we spotlight across our nearly 30 pages of coverage. They all work so diligently on behalf of so many worthy organizations that make a difference — from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the Salvation Army to Teach for America and many, many more. I mark my calendar for my favorite celebrations and awards and refer back to this issue throughout the season (you can, too!). This month, I am absolutely loving our chic cover ladies chairing the National Portrait Gallery’s American Portrait Gala: Randi Levine, Susanna Quinn and Kristin Cecchi and the elegant gowns in our fashion spread. Weddings are the perfect companion to galas and we selected some of the most stunning brides and grooms for feature coverage. They include CNN contributor Ana Navarro’s power-packed Miami nuptials to GOP lobbyist Al Cardenas earlier this year, former BET Producer Angel Elliott and Chicago Bears Offensive Tackle Bobby Massie’s Rocky Mountain bash and CBS News’ national correspondent Errol Barnett’s “I do’s” to Ariana Tolbert in Jamaica. We also feature baubles that make a statement and suit maker Sid Mashburn’s simple tips for the well-dressed man. Cocktails are always in style, so we sipped seasonal favorites at Columbia Room, Calico and Coconut Club (among others). You will want to check out events from this summer’s social scene, including the District Polo Club match and Beneficiary event, Hillwood’s Black and White Gala, Sandy Hook Promise Champions Gala and Halcyon’s By the People Arts Festival. And apart from the scene, we rounded up summer vacation shots of our favorite local residents (including our editorial team, pictured right!). Now, kick your heels up and enjoy.

FYIDC The Insider’s Guide to Washington

10th Annual DC State Fair

DAY IN THE SUN Contests, music, arts and crafts, food trucks and pets galore—the D.C. State Fair has a fun-filled program for the entire family. This year just a short walk from the Congress Heights Metro station, at Gateway DC, the annual festivities include live music, the Pet Parade and new live contest additions. Grab the entire crew for some fun in the sun. Sunday, Sept. 8, Gateway DC, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., dcstatefair.org.

The REACH Opening Festival

ENDLESS INSPIRATION The possibilities are endless during the jam-packed two weeks of free, electric and engaging performances celebrating the opening of The Kennedy Center’s newest expansion project, The REACH. The innovative space strives to place the visitor “at the center of the art,” offering a wide variety of music, comedy, dance, theater and film viewings for each guest to craft their own unique itinerary. Select from nearly 500 events over the course of 16 days of arts entertainment by perusing the online festival schedule and securing your timed-entry passes to this breathtaking display of performance. Saturday, Sept. 7 – Sunday, Sept. 22, times vary,The REACH, kennedy-center.org.

La Cosecha Calle Latina Block Party

FESTIVE INAUGURATION ¡Celebramos! Get ready to dance at the block party and opening concert commemorating the new 20,000-square-foot Latin marketplace in the Union Market district. Featuring cultural classes, food and drink tastings, comedy performances and even the Grammy-winning Latin fusion band Ozomatli, you won’t want to miss Calle Latina. Festivities bursting at the seams with pop-ups and catchy beats “celebrating the colors, textures and sounds of Latin America.” Saturday, Sept. 7, 1270 4th St. NE, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., lacosechadc.com.

12

Zoo Uncorked DRINK IT IN Raise your glass to an unlimited wine tasting experience inside of Smithsonian’s National Zoo with live music and animal exhibits that are open late for attendees. Sponsored by Total Wine & More, wine at the event has a rating of 90 or above so you can drink well while toasting to protect species around the globe. VIP ticket holders get access to exclusive wine and fare, a DJ and extra animal encounters. Thursday, Sept. 12, National Zoo, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.,Tickets start at $70, nationalzoo.si.edu.

H Street Festival

POP & LOCK Rejoice, the H Street Festival is back and better than ever. The single-day 11 block-long festival has 14 staging areas that will light up the neighborhood with music, dance and youthbased performances plus fashion, heritage arts and poetry demonstrations. Let your hair down and prepare to groove and jam at this amazing summer bash. Saturday, Sept. 21, H Street NE from 3rd to14th streets NE 12 p.m.–7 p.m., hstreetfestival.org.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC

| COCKTAILS

ETERNAL SUMMER

Our favorite heat-wave season isn’t over yet, so do taste the last of these photo-friendly cocktails before they’re gone. BY C AT H E R I N E T R I F I L E T T I

Columbia Room THE DOUBLE DEALER Tiki TNT F*F*F Todd Thrasher’s tiki bar on the District Wharf has its own rum distillery in the building. Need we say more? The Polynesian-style bar covers the classics as well as the off-beat. (1130 Maine Ave. SW)

A hidden, but not overlooked gem in Blagden Alley looks like a shipping container from the outside, but do step into the garden for an open-aired half indoor/outdoor bar with plenty of elbow room. Calico appeals heavily to the inner child inside us all with its adult juice boxes and playful frozen drinks. (50 Blagden Alley NW)

Cocktail Curations celebrates the season with a Diy Piedra de Piña: Joseph A. Magnus alum Nicole Hassoun and Thy Parra are behind the new cocktail concept Cocktail Curations, which is available to pop-up at your next private or corporate event. cocktailcurations.com 1 1/2 oz. Manzanilla Sherry 1/2 oz. Suze 3/4 oz. peach + strawberry syrup 3/4 oz. pineapple juice Pinch of flaky sea salt

Coconut Club IS THAT THING ON FIRE? Dos Mamis ORANGE CRUSH From formidable mixologist Carlie Steiner of Himitsu fame and partner Anna Leis, this playful new Petworth cocktail bar screams vacation. Channel summer by ordering the classic orange crush. (819 Upshur St. NW)

14

You may have heard the hype (or seen the Instagrams) about chef Adam Greenberg’s Hawaiian-vibed restaurant in the Union Market District. Think island-inspired spam sandwiches that pair perfectly with tropical cocktails like this fresh rum and mezcal filled coconut that gets fiery treatment. (540 Penn St. NE)

Casta’s Rum Bar MOJITO If the name didn’t immediately tip you off, turn to the cocktail menu to find that this new Cuba-centric bar takes its rum seriously. Pair your cocktail with a Toro Habano cigar and a couple of croquetas to round out your mini Cuban escape in the West End. (1121 New Hampshire Ave. NW)

Pour all ingredients into a shaker over ice and shake until cold. Strain into a rocks glass over ice (one large cube is preferred). Garnish with a slice of peach and a little extra salt. Peach + Strawberry Syrup: Crush 1/2 quart of fresh strawberries and 1/2 quart of fresh ripe peaches in an immersion blender or with a mortar and pestle. Combine the crushed strawberries and peaches with 1/2 quart of sugar (or sweetener of your choice) and 2 quarts of water. Bring to a boil while stirring occasionally. As soon as it boils, remove from heat and cool. Strain the solids out with a fine mesh strainer into your bottle of choice and store it in the fridge for up to one week.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

C O L U M B I A R O O M P H OTO BY O B I O KO LO ; T I K I T N T BY J O N AT H A N T H O R P E ; C A S TA’ S BY J E N C H A S E

For the grandfather of bespoke cocktails head to Columbia Room, where an elevated drinking experience awaits. Whether you choose the punch garden, drink library or reservations-only tasting bar, the creative concoctions will not disappoint. With inventive seasonal themes driving the wildly experienced bar team, expect to be pleasantly surprised. (124 Blagden Alley NW)

Calico

JUICE BOXES

FYIDC

| summer vacations

summer envy

Colada Shop founder Daniella Senior (@daniellasenior) at San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

CNN correspondent Alex Marquardt (@marquardtcnn) and Amanda McClements on Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Design Army’s Chief Creative Officer Pum Lefebure (@pumlefebure) at the Milan Cathedral

TTR Sotheby’s CEO Mark Lowham (@marklowham), in Dana Point, Calif. with his son (pictured).

Ivanka Trump (@ivankatrump) and Jared Kushner at Brush Creek Ranch, outside of Saratoga, Wyo.

José Andrés (@chefjoseandres) and Steve Case (@stevecase) in Puerto Rico as part of the ‘Rise of the Rest’ summer road tour

Nicole Venable (@nicvenable) on the island of Ibiza

Philanthropist Amra Fazlic (@amra_fazlic_) at the Hotel Metropole in Monaco

16

“The Real Housewives of Potomac’s” Gizelle Bryant (@gizellebryant) at Rosewood Baha Mar in Nassau, The Bahamas WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| se p te m b e r

2019

| washingtonlife.com

p o l ar o i d f ram e s by b re n da c l ar k e

Why do vacations always end too soon? Alas, we rounded up a few breathtaking photo memories of some of our favorite Washington-area figures from their holiday escapes and global escapades to keep us all wistful through the Fall scuttle. >>

FYIDC

| CBD

TO CBD OR NOT TO CBD That is the question. The superpower elixir has taken the wellness market by storm — from skincare products and sports recovery drinks to lip balms and infused chocolates. The choices seem endless. Get the skinny on the do’s, don’ts and bewares while browsing for your own perfect Cannabidiol blend. B Y K AT E LY N R U T T

FIND CBD IN DC

FOR THE SKEPTIC Cannabidiol, or CBD, is the legal, non-hallucinogenic component of marijuana. It can aid symptoms like anxiety, depression, pain, ADHD and insomnia, and has been shown to benefit skin and stomach health.

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE

Take no more than 10 to 25 milligrams two times per day, depending on body weight and the concentration of CBD in the product.

Incorporate into your morning routine: Gregorys Coffee 1101 Connecticut Ave. NW CBD latte with espresso, oat milk & 4-6 drops CBD oil ($6.50 for a medium)

Add to your pantry: District Hemp Botanicals 1323 Connecticut Ave. NW CBD Living Water ($8), CBD Truffles ($15), Colorado Hemp Honey ($30)

We recommend: Jrink x ApothĂŠkary 1630 14th St. NW Headquartered in the DMV, in store and online, available in lavender and rose flavors

Shop and learn: Local Meditations 1631 Wisconsin Ave. NW Shop CBD products and attend CBD-related workshops, yoga and mediation sessions

THUMBS UP CBD-infused bath salts, joint balm for post-workout, cough drops and vitamins

CBD pet products and products from independent sellers (less reliable and often not FDA approved)

ADVICE FROM AN EXPERT Hemp Industries Association Board President Joy Beckerman ARE YOU OVERPAYING FOR YOUR CBD? “Unfortunately, many consumers are misled by improper labeling, which can cause them to choose lower potency CBD products over better options. Is the label providing enough information so that you know what the serving size is and how many milligrams of CBD are in each serving? That equation will help you tell if you’re getting a good value because it informs you how much you’re paying for each serving.�

18

Get a massage: Georgetown Massage and Bodywork 1726 Wisconsin Ave. NW 45-minute CBD oil massage ($120)

LOOKING AT THE LABELS MEDICAL CLAIMS: “Medical claims (e.g. “relieves pain�) are the first red flag, because they indicate that the company marketing the product has a lack of regard for, or knowledge of, FDA compliance.�

COMPANY CONTACT “Be wary if a company does not provide contact information on their products. Proper labeling is a key aspect of quality assurance and builds trust between a seller and buyer.�

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

LEGALLY SOURCED: “Was the hemp grown and processed legally in the United States in accordance with federal regulations?�

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

PHOTO COURTE SY HERSHEY PARK

THUMBS DOWN

FYIDC

| AMUSEMENT PARK ADRENALINE

INDULGE IN A FALL ADRENALINE RUSH Savor a crisp and cool amusement park experience — from VIP start to high speed turn and surge.

T

here is nothing like the thrill of rumbling up 300 feet and then plummeting 80 degrees at 90 m.p.h. on an amusement park ride. The feel of high-speed turns, multiple looping twists and that spine tingling forward and backward motion. Some might say that waiting voluntarily in a staggeringly long line is eventually worth the rip-roaring fun. But, please. If there are professional line sitters for just about everything else, it’s worth putting down that credit card to bypass the drones on vacay. Even better, splurge on a VIP private tour experience to kick off your exhilarating wholefamily-together spree in a souped up, turbocharged SUV ride there and back. Why not? The fast-track to fall begins soon enough. >>

SIX FLAGS UPPER MARLBORO MD

BUSCH GARDENS WILLIAMSBURG VA

HERSHEYPARK HERSHEY PA

Ride: At this long-standing “Most Beautiful

Ride: Until Candymonium opens in 2020 (along

Theme Park” is Finnegan’s Flyer, an extreme swing that takes riders more than 80 feet in the air at speeds of 45 m.p.h. Go VIP: Upon arrival, get an up-close reserved parking space ($35-$50), then secure priority access to popular rides with Quick Queue Unlimited from ($45-$75). Or, take a behind the scenes tour to see how the park’s newest ride, “Battle for Eire,” combines VR with a motion simulator, the first in North America ($28-$35). Rest: Recognized as one of the World’s Most Luxurious Hotels, the Williamsburg Inn, just a few miles from the park, offers world-class service and comfort in its classic, elegant rooms after a colossal blast of a day ($449+).

with Hershey’s Chocolatetown region), Skyrush remains the park’s biggest, fastest and longest ride, topping out at 75 m.p.h. with an initial climb of 200 feet. Go VIP: With Fast Track Unlimited ($49), you can skip the regular line all day long on 14 featured attractions Or, over two weekends in October, call for a personalized concierge service experience (72 hours in advance) inside Hersheypark with a “Sweet Access Pass,” ($245 for ages 9+) that includes unlimited front-of-the-line ride access, premium seating at Hersheypark entertainment venue, a personalized ZooAmerica® North American Wildlife Park Animal Encounter and more. (You must be guests at Hershey Lodge or the Hershey Hotel). Stay: A 4-star Google-reviewed hotel, kids are in chocolate heaven at Hershey Lodge with candy bars and balloons on arrival, an indoor water park with a Reese’s Water Walk and, for adults, a signature Hershey’s® Kisses™ Chocolate Martini offered at the Lodge’s premium restaurants (from $499 per night). Connect: Supercharge your trip in the Chevy Traverse with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 4GLTE Wi-Fi (with connectivity for up to seven devices), seven USB ports and a 120 volt charging port. Why? Because silence in the vehicle on the ride home from hyped-up, over sugared kids is simply delicious.

Ride: The 2019 Firebird Floorless Coaster features

sit-down floorless trains gliding at up to 56 m.p.h. before a nine-story drop followed by two inversions, corkscrew turns, a twisted airtime hill and a figure-eight finale. Go VIP: Take a private tour of the park with packages that include admission, front of line access, character meet-and-greets and reserved show and restaurant seating. Prices vary from $144.99 per person to theVIP Experience Tour at $249.99 each. Or, if you’re more of the DIY type, settle for the FLASH Pass Platinum ($65) that can nearly eliminate the entire wait time. Party: Become a member and join in an end of summer bash on Sept. 15.

20

KINGS DOMINION DOSWELL VA Ride: Steel and wood combine forces in Twisted Timbers. This new hybrid coaster is the first of its kind in the mid-Atlantic and uses the latest technology to combine wood supports and steel track. Upgrade: Speed past regular wait lines on favorite rides and attractions with Fast Lane Plus ($65). Drive: Pack the teens in a Lamborghini Urus for extra speed (from zero to 60 m.p.h in 3.2 seconds). Jet-fighter design, 4.0-liter V-8 and a healthy 641 horsepower ensure a blockbuster daytrip.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

PHOTO COURTE SY HERSHEY PARK

BY DA R A K L AT T

FYIDC | WEDDINGS

NEWS HOSTS, GOP POLITICAL PLAYERS, LATINO CELEBS:

A POWER-PACKED MIAMI WEDDING Ana Navarro says ‘I do’ with color. BY DA R A K L AT T

ANA NAVARRO AND AL CARDENAS March 2, 2019 | Indian Creek Country Club, Miami Beach, Fla.

T

he CNN contributor and political strategist Ana Navarro can set fireworks raging when she’s sparring live on camera. But on her wedding day to Al Cardenas, a lawyer, lobbyist and former chairman of Florida’s Republican party, the sparks were simply ones of affection. Instead of verbal blasts at lawmakers and epic social media take-downs, there were just two people on a Miami waterfront who “make each other laugh.” The couple met more than 25 years earlier through their activism and involvement in

politics. While the attraction was instant, Navarro says, it wasn’t the right time. “We had obligations and professional goals that we prioritized.” Cardenas and Navarro remained friends and eventually grew into being each other’s advisors and confidants. “A lot of time passed,” Navarro said, “but we realized we wanted to be with each other in the good times and the bad ones. At last, we made ourselves and our happiness the priority.” When Cardenas, 71, took Navarro to the French-Belgian restaurant Marcel’s, in the District’s West End and a waiter brought out a dome covered silver platter with a ring underneath, he dropped down on one knee. “It is never too late,” said Navarro, 47. “It sounds corny, I know. We didn’t give up on

love, and we didn’t give up on each other. “ With a hectic schedule to manage, Navarro brought in wedding planner Alina Moleta. “Knowing how difficult a schedule I have, she tried to take on as many tasks, [make] decisions and solve problems before they ever had to make their way to me.” The wedding space was outfitted with a “big tropical orchid look” with a vintage Miami theme that reflected the heritage of Navarro (originally from Nicaragua) and Cardenas (who is from Cuba). On the big day, Cardenas appeared in a black, custom-made Pepi Bertini dinner jacket while Navarro wore an ivory silk, off-the-shoulder gown with a scalloped neckline and a lace overlay by the “Rene Ruiz Collection” designed by Luis Escudero. (Continued on page 24)

22

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC YGL | WEDDINGS

Indian Creek Country Club

The bride dancing with Isaiah Thomas

FRONT: Don Lemon, Gloria Estafan, Eva Longoria, Emilio Estefan and Adrienne Arsht BACK: Tim Malone and Jose Antonio Baston

Her “old” earrings were deeply personal, as they were bequeathed to her by a dear friend who died of cancer. Her “borrowed” Tiffany’s bracelet came from her friend Jaffa Coen, and her “blue” David Yurman bracelet was a gift from Cardenas. The self-described “daddy’s girl” had her father walk her down the aisle to an instrumental version of “Guantanamera.” Numerous media figures, celebrities and politicians attended the ceremony including CNN reporters Don Lemon, Dana Bash, Wolf Blitzer and Anderson Cooper; actress Eva Longoria; Latin music superstars Emilio and Gloria Estefan; CNN president Jeff Zucker; Navarro’s co-hosts from “The View” Joy Behar and Sonny Hostin; and Utah Sen. Mitt Romney and his wife Anne. One of the biggest surprises Navarro said was the “sinfully

24

The bride and groom with Wolf Blitzer and Lynn Greenfield, and Dana Bash and Spencer Garrett

decadent” cookies called “Junk in the Trunk” that her friend, acclaimed pastry chef Hedy Goldsmith, baked for all the guests. Now, months after the wedding, the “junk” for the newlyweds is more of the TV variety. “He is ok with me hating football,” Navarro said. “I am ok with him hating ‘The Real Housewives.’” NOTABLE GUESTS: Sen. Rob Portman (R-Ohio) and Jane Portman, Rep. Donna Shalala (D-Fla.); Brooke Baldwin, “El Gordo y la Flaca” host Raúl de Molina and Telemundo journalist Maria Elena Salinas. Details: Bride’s Dress: Rene Ruiz by Luis Escudero; Shoes: Badgley Mischka; Ring: Buchwald Jewelers; Groom: custom Pepi Bertini; Flowers: Rick Interian, Avant Gardens; Food: Indian Creek Country Club, Chef Luke Livingston; Wedding Planner: Alina Moleta Event Planning; Cake: Ana Paz Cakes Rehearsal Dinner: Estefan Kitchen in the Miami Design District; Wedding Brunch: Four Season’s

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

Senator Mitt Romney

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC | WEDDINGS

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BRIDE Amid a Rugged Backdrop, a Former BET Producer and an NFL Player Go All Out Luxe BY DA R A K L AT T

ANGEL ELLIOTT AND BOBBY MASSIE July 7, 2019 | Piney River Ranch, Vail, Colo.

S

itting 9,350 feet above sea level at the end of a dirt road amid a jagged mountain range that dominates the skyline from the Vail ski area is where Angel Elliott and Bobby Massie said “I do.” For Elliott, a wellness coach and former BET producer and reporter, and Massie, a Chicago Bears Offensive Tackle, that meant blending back country bucolic with creative luxury and “let loose” fun. Elliott summoned event planner André Wells to orchestrate the perfect “luxurious, experiential fête that you’ll reminisce about

26

for weeks to come” when the couple, who live in Georgetown in the football off-season, first were engaged. Wells harmoniously swept colors of aubergine, sapphire and emerald green to gold, cream and sage. Flowers by Akeem Clayton Designs reflected the palette as did such symbolic touches as Elliott’s grandmother’s 1912 silver and turquoise rose brooch and the gold and sapphire ring that belonged to Elliott’s late mother. “Bobby and I have a shared love of nature. We’re foodies and most importantly we have a deep soul connection,” Elliott said. “We can climb mountains in the morning and go to Alinea [a three-Michelin-starred Chicago restaurant] for uni [sea urchin] that night. We share the same duality.”

ACTIVITIES: s A late-night bash at Bol, an upscale bowling alley, in lieu of a rehearsal dinner. s Welcome celebration at the Four Seasons Vail the night before the wedding with adult games, oxygen bar and custom cocktails – “Usiku Angel” and Massie’s “The GT 70.” s Fly fishing with the groomsmen the morning of the wedding in Piney River. “It was a cool opportunity to relax before I said ‘I do,’” said Massie. s Surprise second bachelorette party the maid of honor threw after the rehearsal party. s Upcoming honeymoon in Bali, Thailand and Amsterdam. Details: Photos: Stanley Babb, Stanlo Photography Event Planner: André Wells Music: DJ Mark Battle Bride’s Attire: Day of and Day after Wedding Dresses: Leah Da Gloria; Styling: Selina Howard for Vainglorious Bride’s Shoes: Manolo Blahnik and Christian Louboutin; Jewelry: custom Ilona Rubin Hair: Alfred Campbell, Mizani Artist Makeup: Yanique Downer Groom’s Attire: custom Brian Alexander Lunsford for Brian Alexander Bespoke Flowers: Akeem Clayton Designs

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC YGL | WEDDINGS

“When I reached the front [of the aisle], I jokingly whispered to the officiant ‘make it quick!’”

WHEN THE CLOUDS ROLL IN… LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE BY DA R A K L AT T

LAURA KRAISINGER AND ERIC SHIH June 29, 2019 | Inn at Perry Cabin, St. Michaels, Md.

E

very cloud has a silver lining,” the saying goes. But when the clouds are darkly foreboding and stormy on your perfectly planned summer outdoor wedding day — commanding that guests dart for cover in strappy heels while frantically checking weather apps as the wind gusts and rain beats down — the lining, clearly, is a marriage off to a sparkling adventure. So it was for Laura Kraisinger and Eric Shih’s ceremony at the Inn at Perry Cabin on the Chesapeake. “When I reached the front [of the aisle], I jokingly whispered to the officiant ‘make it quick!’” said Kraisinger, an Amazon Advertising account manager who grew up in Bethesda. The Rev.William Mies of Citi Ministries calmly

28

continued at a prayerful pace and the heavens allowed Kraisinger and Shih to complete their vows. Once the “I do’s” wrapped, the crowd blined to the reception tent just before the skies opened up. With the waterfront cocktail hour abandoned, bartenders sacrificed themselves to the elements for the greater good of cocktail free flow. No siree, a drenched white buttoned-up waiter shirt didn’t stop the bubbly. “Everyone had a good laugh,” Kraisinger recalled. “It gave things a fun element of drama, and honestly made it so memorable we didn’t even mind. Also, it’s supposed to be good luck! Right?” Details: Photos: Kate Headley Bride’s dress: Maggie Sottero (Kleinfeld Bridal in New York); Veil: custom from Kleinfeld; Shoes: Manolo Blahnik and Sophia Webster; Hair and Makeup: Alison Harper & Company Groom’s Suit: Ralph Lauren Purple Label; Shoes: Gucci; Rings: Lauren B Jewelry; Flowers: Sweet Root Village; Cake: Buttercream Bakeshop in Washington, D.C.; Music: Anthony Simpson, MyDeejay

Flowers by Sweet Root Village

Monogrammed favors

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC | weddings

“Ryan is the most honest man I’ve ever met and I don’t have much of a filter so it just works for us.” - Jennifer Millard

“I was attracted to her independence and just her overall toughness.” - Ryan Lopez

BECOMING J.LO This time around, it’s elegantly racy,

Jennifer Millard and Ryan Lopez June 8, 2019 | Holy Rosary Church and National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C.

lavish ... and Catholic.

W

BY da r a k l at t

WHAT’S ‘OUT’

For a second marriage a lady has to content herself with a quiet ceremony in a chapel or at home, if she doesn’t want to be married by a magistrate. Having, it is to be hoped, lost her right to white satin she wears a simple afternoon frock and hat. - Alice-Leone Moats, author “No Nice Girl Swears,” 1933

30

WHAT’S ‘IN’

Modern guidelines for a second marriage: (1) Find a better man than the first; (2) Wage your right to a slightly racy, yet grand revenge gown; (3) Throw a lavish, even rowdy evening wedding. - Washington Life, 2019

hen Jennifer Millard married Ryan Lopez, a director at Cushman & Wakefield – and became Jennifer Lopez – the wedding took on some J.Lo sass and sizzle. Millard, a mother of three embarking on her second act (the first ended in les commérages for another time), took the white carpet by storm. Proving her intent, the DC-area native converted to Catholicism, was confirmed less than a week before the wedding and solemnly pledged her faith and fidelity at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in a stunning,V-neck, semi-sheer Oscar de la Renta gown with floral embroidery that may have made the priest sweat just a little. Details: Photos: Kate Headley; Event Planner: Allison Jackson, Pineapple Productions; Bride’s Dress: Oscar de la Renta (from Carine’s Bridal); Engagement Ring and Earrings: Shah + Shah Distinctive Jewelers; Wedding Band: Cartier; Hair: Peggy Ioakim (Karma Beauty Lounge); Makeup: Shenoa Nicole; Groom’s Attire: custom tux, bow tie Tom Ford; Flowers: Amaryllis Floral and Event Design

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

| se p te m b e r

2019

| washingtonlife.com

YGL

THE SERENDIPITY OF INSTAGRAM ‘LIKES’ After ‘meeting’ on Instagram, a CBS News correspondent and his bride design a picture perfect wedding BY DA R A K L AT T

ERROL BARNETT AND ARIANA TOLBERT May 18, 2019 | Round Hill Resort, Montego Bay, Jamaica

I

n a frenetic news cycle pace, CBS News national correspondent and anchor Errol Barnette paused. New “likes” on his Instagram feed from @arianashordy caught his eye. When he direct messaged the online stranger to say hello, at that exact moment, she separately messaged him. Call it coincidence, or destiny, the two saw it as a sign. A week later, Barnett and Ariana Tolbert met for the first of many dates, “and it was electric,” they agreed. By week three, Tolbert had met Barnett’s mother and the couple set

32

off on a road trip to Panama City, Fla. That of the person I’ve always wanted to marry: was that. Four years later, they married at the gorgeous, intelligent, adventurous and kind. In Round Hill Resort on Jamaica’s Montego Bay addition, she has helped me grow into the kind and now reside in a historic townhouse in the of man I want to be—without defining myself District’s Columbia Heights neighborhood. through my career,” Barnett said. Tolbert, a Deloitte Federal consultant, wore As a newlywed, on Instagram @Errolbarnett a lace gown from Pronovias Atelier and tied still posts behind-the-scenes and on-camera photo charms of her deceased grandparents shots from CBS news segments as well as his to her flower bouquet. Barnett wore a blue personal outdoor adventures. But now, the suit with paisley lining from Suit Supply “likes” light up on posts with @arianashordy Georgetown with accessories from Tie Bar. and their shih-poo puppy Rémy. The hashtag During the outdoor ceremony, a lone crane he includes seems fitting: “#Luckyman.” flew in and watched from the waters beyond the altar. That only added to the Instagram Details: Bride’s Attire: Pronovias Atelier (day of) and Free People (day after). allure of the celebration. Groom’s Suit: Suit Supply Georgetown; Accessories: Tie Bar; Photographer: “I fell so hard for Ariana because almost Victoria Heer Photography; Flowers: Tai Flora immediately she started checking all the boxes

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC

| DRESSES

GO GREEN Emerald, lime and forest color varieties are essential for Fall

Kristen Lund

Abeer Al Otaiba

Amanda Polk

Ruth Bader Ginsburg

34

Stephanie Ruhle

Amy Baier

Mary Ourisman

Amra Fazlic

Tamron Hall

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

Jessica Stafford Davis

Julie Kent

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FYIDC

| men’s fashion

5 TIPS FOR DRESSING WELL ACCORDING TO SID MASHBURN One the nation’s finest (and perhaps kindest) menswear designers and retailers – with shops in Georgetown, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas and Los Angeles – shares enduring style sense for the modern man. BY da r a k l at t

CLEAN & PRESS

Do not overlook the basics. Keep your shoes shined, your clothes pressed, your breath fresh, your mouth clean and smile. It’s usually the first thing people notice even before what you’re wearing. SANTONI Men’s Ribona Lace-Up Dress Shoes ($2,500), Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW neimanmarcus.com

TAILOR

Find the best tailor you like and trust. Wearing clothes that fit you properly makes all the difference.* PAUL SMITH Men’s Slim-Fit Navy Loro Piana Wool Pants ($775), PaulSmith.com

OVERDRESS

RESTRAIN

Your outfit only needs one lead singer … restraint is a virtue.

SID MASHBURN Kincaid No. 3 Ticket Pocket Jacket in Navy Cashmere Hopsack ($2,250), Sid Mashburn, 3206 N St. NW, www.sidmashburn.com‎

TUCK

Tuck your shirt in. Even on the weekend. It’s a simple way to make your appearance just a little crisper. CHARLES TYRWHITT Slim fit white non-iron poplin shirt ($110),Tysons Corner Center, 1961 Chain Bridge Rd., ctshirts.com

For any occasion, lean overdressed rather than underdressed. It shows courtesy and respect to the people you’re with. And with a jacket, always include a pocket square, otherwise that space looks empty. THE TIE BAR Dusty Rose Native Herringbone Pocket Square ($10). The Tie Bar, 1431 P St. NW, thetiebar.com

*WL BONUS TIP

Step up the sizzle for a special occasion with a statement piece, such as a handcrafted couture lapel pin. MINDY LAM Sky and Denim Nostalgia Lapel Pin with signature Swarovski crystal blooms ($458). MindyLam.com

* Need a master tailor or a wardrobe update? Head to the Sid Mashburn store in Georgetown at 3206 N St. NW.

36

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

| se p te m b e r

2019

| washingtonlife.com

LIFE OF THE PARTY WL-sponsored and Exclusive Events | Washington Ballet Gala, Phillips Collection Gala and more!

Di Mondo at the Hirshhorn Ball (Photo by Tony Powell)

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

39

LIFE

of the

PARTY

Virginia Johnson, Julie Kent and Martha Alito WL SPONSORED

WASHINGTON BALLET GALA The Anthem PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL AND NAKU MAYO

Eve Auchincloss Lilley, Shigeko Bork and Dorothy McSweeny

Micaela Varricchio, Italian Amb. Armando Varricchio, Kristen Lund and Irina Rapoport

Alison and Bill Paley

40

“ILLUMINATE AND IGNITE”: The Washington Ballet hosted its spring fete at The Anthem for the second year in a row with even more spectacular results. The riverside concert hall was transformed into a glittering jewel with laser images and dramatic illumination that made the vast space look like one of Europe’s classic opera houses. Junior ballerinas in tutus handed out battery-lighted cocktail rings at the entrance for guests to flash during cocktail hour, which preceded an awards ceremony. Artistic Director Julie Kent helped honor Chevrolet tycoon Robert Rosenthal and his wife Marion, along with Dance Theatre of Harlem director (and former prima ballerina) Virginia Johnson, who touched the crowd by noting that “ballet lifts every heart no matter who you are, where you are or what color you are.” After dinner (avocado tartare with melon carpaccio, branzino, grilled hanger steak and a trio of citrus sorbets), guests enjoyed a performance by company members before hitting the dance floor to the tunes of DJ Alkimist until the lights dimmed at 1 a.m.

Amb. of Monaco Maguy Maccario Doyle and Sen. Roy Blunt

Jean-Marie Fernandez, Amy Baier and Carrie Marriott

Peyton Anderson, Gilles Delellio, Gian Carlo Perez, Abigail Granlund, Javier Morera, Andrea Allmon and Aurora Mostacci

Janice Kim, Paul Sherrill and Rachel Pearson

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

Rod Rosenstein Connie Carteer and Gordon Dale

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

LIFE

of the

PARTY Gen. Chuck and Marilyn Wald

Nina Rumbough and Kate Markert WL EXCLUSIVE

Melanie Hansen

HILLWOOD BLACK & WHITE GALA

Beth Newburger Schwartz

Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

EISIE’S ICONS: Marjorie Merriweather Post filled her home with treasures that once graced Versailles and the Winter Palace, so it was certainly fitting that this year’s dinner to support Hillwood would feature an exhibition of nearly 50 iconic photographic works by Alfred Eisenstaedt, who snapped the cereals heiress “at home” in all three of her residences (also including Mara-Lago in Palm Beach and Camp Topridge in the Adirondacks) in an 18-page photo essay for Life magazine in 1965. Guests were asked to wear black and white for the party, which raised $450,000 in support of Hillwood’s mission to share its cultural treasures with the public.

William Ingersoll and Nancy Marriott Leah Rumbough and Cole Rumbaugh

Mark Lowham, Michele Kang and Joe Ruzzo

42

Stacy Hadeka, Jack Corba, Nikole Rucker and Davey Ahearn

Megan Beyer, andKim LucyDarroch Rhame Molly Raiser and John BritishStinson Amb. Sir

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

LIFE

of the

PARTY

Melissa Chiu, Pussy Noir and Aba Kwawu

Brian Smith

HIRSHHORN BALL Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Henry Edwards

RAISING THE BARRE: The most outrageous party in years—maybe since the old Corcoran Gallery of Art’s infamous Beaux Arts Masquerade in late 1970—filled the gardens and grounds of the Hirshhorn with sights and sounds rarely seen in the nation’s buttoned-down capital. Think legions of drag queens, butt-baring chaps, a “googly-eyed lobster,” an inflatable flamingo suit and a prize winning giant tampon alongside more, ahem, thoughtful costumes conforming to the evening’s Surrealist theme that included characters from René Magritte’s famous paintings. Host Pussy Noir kept things hopping with her Lady Gaga-esque lip sync as voguing virtuosos from the House of Sonique posed and preened to the delight of exhilarated dancers well into the night. JUST YOU WAIT: “The Hirshhorn is happy to open our museum to artistic possibilities across the city,” said Melissa Chiu, the museum’s artistic director, as she surveyed the chaotic scene. “Watch out for next year!”

Rigatoni, Joanne Fabrix and Betty O’Hellno

Kelly Carnes and Justin McCown

Betty O’Hellno

Stacy King and Eric Leeder

44

Sippi Sonnique

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

Jennifer Isham Molly Raiser and British Amb. Sir Kim Darroch

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

LIFE

of the

PARTY

Carlton and Kimberly Arrendell Gala Co-Chairs Josh and Sarah Eastright, Mexican Amb. Martha Barcena, Agustin Gutierrez Canet, Phillips Director Dorothy Kosinski and Thomas Krahenbuhl

PHILLIPS COLLECTION GALA & CONTEMPORARIES BASH The Phillips Collection and Dock 5 at Union Market PHOTOS BY BEN DROZ AND PAUL MORIGI/ AP

Graham and Beatriz Bolton and Peter Bolton

Pati Jinich, Marie Royce and Ed Royce

VIVA MEXICO!: The spring soirée hosted by Mexican Ambassador Martha Bárcena came alive with the colorful spirit of America’s southern neighbor. Pink and orange tablecloths drew admiring glances along with a medley of brightly colored flower centerpieces during a cocktail hour that preceded dinner prepared by famed Mexican chef Pati Jinich. Shots of tequila accompanied each diner’s place setting, making for great table conversation and a nice accent to plates of sopa crijollo and lamb chops. At evening’s end, some headed out in the rain to the Young Contemporaries after party across town while others remained behind to nosh on churros while listening to a lively mariachi band. PRICELESS DINING EXPERIENCE: Raffle tickets benefiting Building Bridges Across the River’s art outreach programs cost $100, but the prize was priceless—dinner for 10 by chef Jinich next to any work of art in the Collection.

Mirella and Dani Levinas

Andrea and Steve Strawn

AFTER PARTY

Diya Eggleston and Svetlana Legetic

Breann Sitton and Ryan Codi

46

Rep. Joaquin Castro

Kayleen Love and Sherwiet Witherington

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

Kate Warren

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

LIFE

of the

PARTY

Danish Amb. Lone Dencker Wisborg and Jane Cafritz

Dr. Michael Olding

Susi and Eric Larsen with Camille Biros

WASHINGTON NATIONAL OPERA GALA Kennedy Center Opera House | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL CELEBRATING WAGNER: Local auto magnate John Pohanka was honored for his 30 years as a trustee at the Washington National Opera’s annual gala, which explained why the gala’s program favored selections from his first and also favorite opera, “Tannhäuser,” and probably also its success in raising more than $1 million to help fulfill a $2.4 million challenge grant from a private donor. “When opera is done well there is nothing like it,” he told guests between appearances by sopranos Christine Goerke and Latonia Moore, bass baritone Alan Held and basso profundo Soloman Howard (“Some Enchanted Evening”) with emcee Christine Ebersole providing a lighter touch with Kurt Weill’s “The Saga of Jenny” and “On a Clear Day.” The WNO’s black-tie evening also included a super early call to cocktails under a blazing sun on the Kennedy Center’s River Terrace at 4:30 p.m. and post-performance dinners hosted by a record 18 embassies and the Organization of American States.

George and Kristen Lund Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter

Annie Totah and Mike Pillsbury

WNO Artistic Director Francesca Zambello

John Pohanka and Anne Kline Pohanka

48

Isabel Fezas Vital and Portugese Amb. Domingos Fezas Vital

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

Roosevelt Molly RaiserLucky and British Amb. Sir Kim Darroch

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

POLLYWOOD The Nexus of Politics﹐ Hollywood﹐ Media and Diplomacy | Foundation for Arts and Preservation in Embassies Dinner, Michael Kahn’s Farewell Celebration, Embassy Row and more!

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Diane von Furstenberg at the Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards (Photo Courtesy Vital Voices)

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

51

pollywood | vital voices

Trailblazing: A Conversation With Diane von Furstenberg The fashion designer empowers women through Vital Voices and beyond.

by c at h e r i n e t r i f i l e t t i ; P h oto s by Pau l M o r i g i a n d L a n c e r P h oto g r a p h y

Hillary Clinton with Nobel Laureate Nadia Murad and Vital Voices Board Members Diane von Furstenberg and Melanne Verveer

V Amber Heard

Habiba Ali, Ariela Suster, Saskia Niño de Rivera, Jamira Burley and Rouba Mhaissen

Vital Voices President and CEO Alyse Nelson, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Beth Brooke-Marciniak and V. Sue Molina

52

ital Voices hosted its 18th annual Global Leadership Awards in May honoring inspiring women across industries seeking to make a difference globally. The work of the non-profit organization is geared toward identifying, training and connecting women leaders in more than 180 countries around the world. At this year’s ceremony iconic fashion designer and longtime supporter of Vital Voices Diane von Furstenberg was presented with the Global Trailblazer Award for her role in advancing the women’s movement. Post-event she shared with Washington Life what has inspired her journey and the legacy she hopes to leave behind. >>

Can you cite a specific story or journey of one of the honorees from past Global Leadership Awards that has deeply impacted you? Sunitha in India, Chouchou in Congo, Pamela in Brazil, Danielle in Haiti and so many others. These women and their work are inspiring – from using street art to empower women to training women to be journalists and more – they do so much. Although I set out to support them, it is the women who have had the greatest impact on me through their courage, strength and leadership. As a budding entrepreneur in the fashion industry,

Martin Baron and Nina Eason

what were notable pieces of advice you relied on to achieve success and the American Dream? Dream... fight to make the dream happen and know that failures are part of success. Fear is not an option. I also think women should know that the most important relationship you have is the one you have with yourself. Have a good relationship with yourself.    Are there go-to words of wisdom you share with young female entrepreneurs when they ask for guidance? “Believe”...and they do. They have as much to teach me than I do to them. As I often say, if you doubt your power, you give power to your doubts. Describe the legacy you are striving to build. I want to make sure that women are in charge – in charge of themselves, their lives and their character so they can be the women they want to be. I am now in the autumn of my life, and I really believe now is the time for me to use my power to empower others.When I get up in the morning, the first thing I do is something for someone else. I start my day by sending an e-mail to do something nice for someone; sometimes it’s making an introduction or a suggestion or a compliment, but something that helps someone else so that I can think about how I use my power to empower.

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

| se p te m b e r

2019

| washingtonlife.com

POLLYWOOD | EMBASSY ROW

Bicycle Diplomacy Diplomats pedal for the planet but Greenland’s not for sale BY ROLAND FLAMINI

Diplomats and their bikes outside the Finnish Embassy at the start of their run

DIPLOMACY ON TWO WHEELS The

Embassy of Finland kicked off its six-month rotating presidency of the European Council (the E.U.’s main decision-making body) by organizing a bicycle ride in which dozens of diplomats from all 28 member countries took part. The purpose of “Pedal for the Planet” was to draw attention to the E.U.’s commitment to climate action, which Finland has made one of the issues of its presidential agenda. The E.U. is committed to carbon neutrality by 2050, i.e. taking action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero. Leading the bikers was Finnish Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi, along with the European Union Ambassador Stavros Lambrinidis. The route was from the Finnish Embassy on Massachusetts Avenue to the E.U. envoy’s residence, about a mile away. “We’re trying to tell the world that it’s not just government policies that make a difference, it’s also what we each do ourselves,” Lambrinidis says. “So getting on that bike instead of our usual big cars is something we should all be doing more and more.”

some more for “The Ode to Joy,” the chorale from the last movement of Beethoven’s glorious “Ninth Symphony.”The original text is the German poet and philosopher Friedrich Schiller’s celebration of the brotherhood of man,“An die Freude.” In Beethoven’s musical setting it has functioned as the European Union’s unofficial anthem. Though not mandated—at least, not yet—it is played or sung at the national day embassy receptions of E.U. member states with increasing frequency, and at E.U. functions in Brussels. “If [the member states] choose to do it, like the French did, it is of course a nice gesture,” a spokesperson at the E.U. delegation in Washington commented. One problem is that Schiller’s florid 18th century German gains little in translation and, anyway, few people are sufficiently familiar with the words of the existing, clunky English versions to be able to sing from memory, “Joy, beautiful spark of the Gods/ daughter of Elysium ...” The result is that the Ode to Joy is more often performed on musical instruments—without Schiller’s words, for which it was chosen in the first place.

SCHILLER’S ANTHEM At the new French ambassador’s Bastille Day reception in July, guests stood to attention for the national anthems of France and the United States—and then stood

NO SALE, NO VISIT. TRUMP SNUBS DANISH QUEEN: The royal invitations had gone out,

54

the menu was planned, and the talk of Copen-

hagen was who would be going to the state dinner hosted by Denmark’s Queen Margrethe II in honor of President Trump.That was before Trump abruptly canceled his planned visit to Copenhagen when the Danes rejected his interest in the U.S. buying Greenland. The huge, ice-encased, thinly populated island, located 700 miles north – yes, north - of the Arctic Circle is part of the Danish kingdom, and the Danish prime minister flatly said it wasn’t for sale, and called the very idea “absurd.” But Europe has learned to handle the new normal in American presidential behavior. The Danes shrugged off the snub to their queen, even though the Copenhagen chief of police grumbled that elaborate preparations for the presidential visit had been put in place at great expense. Two enormous billboards with Trump’s portrait were taken down. Trump’s ambassador to Denmark, Carla Sands, caught on wrong foot, tweeted “Denmark is ready for POTUS.” There’s no mystery about how Greenland caught Trump’s attention.The U.S. has had an air base in Greenland for more than half a century – Petersen AFB. With the Arctic become an area of economic and strategic rivalry involving both China and Russia, the base has increased in importance and visibility. Its missile early warning system has been upgraded and expanded, it is a key element in the new military space program, and there is talk of further U.S. investments in defense infrastructure.

German Amb. Emily Haber and E. U. Amb. Ambassador Lambrinidis wave to spectators.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

DONO T V E N

AN

JA

POLLYWOOD | HOLLYWOOD ON THE POTOMAC

O

N

T

E

Robert Costa, Tammy Haddad, Lynda Carter, Scott Galloway and Niki Cristoff

HE SCEN

Hilary Rosen and Kara Swisher

SCREENING OF ‘THE PEANUT BUTTER FALCON’ HOSTED BY MPAA AND THE MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL Landmark’s E Street Cinema

BOOK PARTY FOR SCOTT GALLOWAY’S ‘THE ALGEBRA OF HAPPINESS’ Hilary Rosen Residence

Billy Mitchell, Kamilah Forbes, Lisa Cortes and Jamal Simmons

PHOTOS BY BRUCE V BOYAJIAN

PHOTO BY DUNCAN CHAPLIN

Synopsis: “The Peanut Butter Falcon” is an adventure story set in the world of a modern Mark Twain that begins when Zack, a young man with Down Syndrome, runs away from a nursing home to chase his dream of becoming a professional wrestler. It stars Zack Gottsagen, Shia LaBeouf and Dakota Johnson. “We just knew that there wasn’t going to be an opportunity for a feature film starring a guy with Down Syndrome, so we sat down and just wrote the story.We wrote for him, so we knew the pace going in, but he’s a dream ...he does something really special on the screen.” — Director Tyler Nelson

“I thought on the one hand, I’m way too old for this, but on the other hand, this is exhilarating and this is why it’s all worthwhile.We couldn’t be prouder. It was a long, rough ride but we’re very, very happy to be here to share it with you tonight.” — Producer Albert Berger on scrambling to shoot a water scene as high tide set in

SCREENING OF HBO DOCUMENTARY ‘THE APOLLO’ HOSTED BY THE MARCH ON WASHINGTON FILM FESTIVAL The National Archives PHOTO BY JERMONI DOWD JKDOWD MEDIA

Synopsis: “The Apollo” chronicles the unique history and contemporary legacy of the New York City landmark, the Apollo Theater. “We created timelines which highlighted seminal moments in Apollo. Our director Roger Ross Williams then looked for those events that spoke to the themes in the film where these histories aligned. For example, James Brown performing ‘I’m Black and I’m Proud’ at the theater in tandem with the urgency felt in the civil rights movement at that time.” — Producer Lisa Cortes

“The Apollo Theater has a robust calendar of programs. Additionally, our beloved Amateur Night is still going strong after 85 years with New Yorkers and tourists alike, all enjoying the place where “stars are born and legends are made.” - Jonelle Procope, Apollo Theater President and CEO

56

Synopsis: “The Algebra of Happiness” represents a refreshing perspective on our need for both professional success and personal fulfillment. “So I’ve been to D.C. 10 times in my life – five times in the last six months – and my impression so far is it’s a bunch of incredibly nice people who get along really well,” Scott Galloway said at the Q & A. “That’s funny,” shouted a guest. “He has a sense of humor!” “Happiness is a sensation. It’s short term. You get happiness from Chipotle, Netflix and Cialis.That’ll get you happy in terms of a short term bump. But this is really about trying to understand the best and worst practices around the little investments we make every day, mostly in relationships, and the decisions we make, such that as we get older we can feel like if and when we see the end, we can drop the mic, if you will. So it’s really more about trying to create a narrative of satisfaction.” — New York Times bestselling author and business school professor Scott Galloway on his new book, which gives life advice on professional success and personal satisfaction

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

POLLYWOOD

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Paul Hobby

Susan Pompeo, Ken Burns, Philip Pearlstein and Eden Rafshoon

Ronald S. Lauder, Jane Lauder, Aerin Lauder Zinterhofer and Jo Carole Lauder

WL EXCLUSIVE

FOUNDATION FOR ART AND PRESERVATION IN EMBASSIES DINNER Diplomatic Reception Rooms, U.S. Department of State | PHOTOS BY MARY HILLIARD

Austrian Amb. Wolfgang Waldner, Gregor Medinger, Gudron Waldner and Italian Amb. Armando Varricchio

Mitchell Rales and Sharon Percy Rockefeller

Emily Rales with Jeff and Justine Koons

58

DIPOMATIC ARTS: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo scored major points with the upper crust crowd of arts supporters, mostly from New York and Washington, merely by showing up to host FAPE’s glitzy annual dinner amid the glories of the State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Rooms. The artworks the group annually bestows on U.S. embassy properties abroad “help to communicate the priority we place on human creativity and individual achievement, making our diplomatic posts around the world fully representative of America’s diverse fabric,” he told guests before congratulating historian Ken Burns, the recipient of this year’s Annenberg Award for Diplomacy through the Arts. New works by Philip Pearlstein and Carrie Mae Weems were on display throughout the dinner, which featured a performance by the U.S. Air Force Strolling Strings.

Hilary Ross and Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross

Joel Schapiro and Jack Davies

Molly Raiser and British Amb. Sir Kim Darroch

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

| S U M M E R | washingtonlife.com

POLLYWOOD Colleen Delaney, Harry Hamlin, Floyd King and Franchelle Stewart Dorn

Michael Kahn, Jacqueline B. Mars, Gail West, Bill McSweeny and Charles Mitchem WL EXCLUSIVE

MICHAEL KAHN FAREWELL

Karen Akers sings “Non, je ne regrette rien”

Shakespeare Theatre Company Sidney Harman Hall | PHOTOS BY KEVIN ALLEN

Elizabeth Ashley

Joanna Breyer and Jill Cooper Udall

THE GREAT KAHN BOWS OUT: There was no way Washington would let Michael Kahn slip out of town without a major send-off and that’s just what he got when actors, directors, benefactors, former staff members and other devotees gathered to honor the extraordinary showman’s 33 years at the helm of the Shakespeare Theatre Company. Richard Thomas, Elizabeth Ashley, Karen Akers, Michael Urie, Floyd King, Franchelle Stewart Dorn, Maureen Dowd and Harry Hamlin led the enormous cast who remembered, recited, danced, declaimed, sang and soliloquized while paying l-e-n-g-t-h-y tribute to a singular man who transformed a small local theater into one of the world’s most acclaimed repertory companies. “Everything that has happened to me has been a gift,” Kahn told the crowd at evening’s end, citing “writers both living and not living who entrusted me with their words and ideas, students who allowed me to learn while I was teaching, and actors who helped bring everything I had in my mind come to life.”

Sen. Tim Scott interviewed by C2C intern Daquawn Bruce at the VIP reception

Sen. Maggie Hasson and former C2C intern Milla Anderson

COLLEGE TO CONGRESS’ SUMMER SOIRÉE

Andrew Hanson and Audrey Henson

Union Station | PHOTOS COURTESY OF COLLEGE TO CONGRESS

Interactive art exhibit 60

BIPARTISAN BASH: A major afternoon thunderstorm didn’t prevent more than 200 community members from celebrating the bipartisan efforts of College to Congress (C2C), which annually sponsors college students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds to intern for members of Congress on both sides of aisle. The non-profit organization’s founder Audrey Henson founded C2C after her own experience having to take out a loan to cover living expenses while completing an unpaid Hill internship. The inaugural event featured remarks from members of Congress, refreshments, photo booths, a game room, an interactive art exhibit and music courtesy of DJ Jaz Dux. Proceeds from the event support C2C’s programming. WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

Rep. Greg Steube and Bobby Scott

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART DIRECTION BY TONY POWELL WWW TONY-POWELL COM PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY WARDMAN TOWER RESIDENCES MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER HILLWOOD ESTATE MUSEUM & GARDENS AND THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY’ S AMERICAN PORTRAIT GALA NOVEMBER

RANDI LEVINE, SUSANNA QUINN AND KRISTIN CECCHI

62

PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY MAKEUP BY MAKEUP BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR THE CAUSE THE AMERICAN PORTRAIT GALA WAS ESTABLISHED IN TO STRENGTHEN THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY’S ENDOWMENT WA S H I N G T O N L I F E FOR EXHIBITIONS AND TO FOCUS ATTENTION ON THE MUSEUM’S WORK WITH LIVING SITTERS AND CONTEMPORARY ARTISTS

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

SEPTEMBER 2019

6

ALLISON GALA

THE CAUSE: The event helps fund research for the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation. DETAILS: Four Seasons Hotel, Washington; 7:00 p.m.; black-tie optional; $150; sponsorships start at $2,000; visit tnbcfoundation.org/ support-us/allison-gala.

10

NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY’S AMBASSADORS BALL

EVENT CHAIRS: Susan J. Pompeo and Jill Cooper Udall; Italian Amb. Armando Varricchio and Micaela Varricchio (Honorary) THE CAUSE: The annual Ambassadors Ball honors the Washington Diplomatic Corps and members of Congress for their many contributions to charitable and humanitarian efforts. Proceeds support the treatment, research and other programs for patients or families affected by multiple sclerosis. DETAILS: The Anthem; 6:00 p.m.; blacktie optional; $600; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact (202) 375-5620, Ambassadorsball@nmss.org.

14

2019 WOLF TRAP BALL

EVENT CHAIRS: Patrick

and Annie Pacious, Srikant Sastry and Manjula Pindiprolu; Singapore Ambassador Ashok Mirpuri and Gouri Mirpuri (Honorary) THE CAUSE: Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts, a non-profit organization that provides arts and education programs to nearly 500,000 people of all ages locally and across the country every year. DETAILS: On the Filene Center stage at Wolf Trap National Park; 7:00 p.m.; black-tie; $1,000; sponsorships start at $10,000; visit wolftrap.org/Ball or contact events@wolftrap.org.

17

MUSEUM OF THE BIBLE’S COUTURE LUNCHEON AND FASHION SHOW

THE CAUSE: Proceeds benefit Museum of the Bible’s mission to invite all people to engage with the Bible. DETAILS: Museum of the Bible; 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; $200; contact Kate Chambers Kate.Chambers@mbible. org.

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

18

CONGRESSIONAL COALITION ON ADOPTION INSTITUTE’S ‘ANGELS IN ADOPTION’ GALA

THE CAUSE: The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute’s program promotes and supports adoption agencies and child welfare programs. DETAILS: Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center; 6:30 p.m.; business or cocktail attire; $250; contact (202) 544-8500, info@ccainstitute.org.

19–28

DC SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL

DETAILS: 1317 F St. NW, Suite 920; dcshorts.com. HIGHLIGHT: More than 150 short films will be featured.

Washington D.C., receives 33 percent of all proceeds. Four percent will go to Special Love, which provides support for children with cancer and their families. DETAILS: The Mandarin Oriental;VIP reception 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., general reception and silent auction at 6:00 p.m., program, dinner and live auction at 7:30 p.m., after party 10:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; black-tie; $700; sponsorships start at $1,700; contact Susan Hubert (202) 689-1917, hubert@slslaw.com.

21

ADOPTIONS TOGETHER’S ‘TASTE IN POTOMAC’

THE CAUSE: The event brings together

19

GOVERNMENT EXECUTIVE MEDIA GROUP’S INAUGURAL GOVERNMENT HALL OF FAME GALA

THE CAUSE: The Theodore Roosevelt Government Leadership Awards (The Teddies) will honor a field of distinguished federal officials and industry leaders for outstanding achievement in delivering on government’s promise to serve the American people. DETAILS: Washington National Cathedral; 7:00 p.m.; contact Brandon Stallings, bstallings@atlanticmedia.com.

19

HAYMAKERS FOR HOPE

THE CAUSE: The non-profit

raises money for cancer research, care, awareness, and survivorship through charity boxing events in cities across America. DETAILS: The Anthem; 6:30 p.m.; $80; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact mark@haymakersforhope.org. Highlight: The inaugural Washington event will feature 30 amateur boxers from the DMV.

21

JOAN HISAOKA ‘MAKE A DIFFERENCE’ GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Bob Hisaoka and Dana Hines

community members to raise awareness and funding for children in foster care. DETAILS: Bethesda North Marriott Hotel; 7:00 p.m.; young professional tickets $175; sponsorships start at $800; contact adoptionstogether.org. HIGHLIGHT: Guests will enjoy an evening of auction prizes and fare from Potomac area restaurants.

25

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB NATIONAL YOUTH OF THE YEAR CELEBRATION

THE CAUSE: BGCA helps teens working to accomplish their personal and academic goals and dreams. DETAILS: National Building Museum; 6:00 p.m.; cocktail attire; $1,000; young patron tickets $475; sponsorships start at $15,000; contact Emily Brown, embrown@bgca.org, (202) 507-6685.

27

MEET THE NEWZDUDES

THE CAUSE: In its eighth year NEWZDUDES™ by Men Against Breast Cancer brings together male and female on-air talent from various media affiliates to support the mission of Men Against Breast Cancer. DETAILS: La Vie Restaurant; 7:00 p.m.; $10; contact Brian J. Silver, brian@ menagainstbreastcancer.org.

THE CAUSE: In its 12th year the gala dedicates 63 percent of its proceeds to Life With Cancer, the educational, informative, and emotional support program of the Inova Schar Cancer Institute. Life with Cancer provides support for cancer patients and their loved ones. Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, the only independent cancer support center based in

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

27

HALCYON AWARDS

EVENT CHAIRS: Gina Adams and Simone Friedman; Australian Amb. Joe Hockey and Melissa Babbage (Diplomatic) THE CAUSE: The event will celebrate Halcyon, a non-profit organization dedicated to lifting up social entrepreneurs and civic-minded artists.

The Halcyon Awards presented at this event honor talented arts icons, successful social entrepreneurs, and public policy visionaries, changemakers and trailblazers who inspire Halcyon and all the emerging creatives with whom they work. DETAILS: Entertainment and Sports Arena; 6:00 p.m.; $800; sponsorships start at $3,000; contact Andrew Jacobs a.jacobs@halcyonhouse.org. HIGHLIGHT: This year’s honorees are Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews (Performer, Bandleader, Producer, Philanthropist); Barbara Boxer (former U.S. Senator) and Seth Goldman (Cofounder & TeaEO Emeritus, Honest Tea).

28

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE OF WASHINGTON’S FASHION SHOW: BEYOND THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS

THE CAUSE: Proceeds support the organization’s cultural programs of bringing high-quality events and artists from France and the francophone world to Washington, D.C. DETAILS: Embassy of France; 7:00 p.m.; $55; contact Raphaela Kitson-Pantano communications@francedc.org. HIGHLIGHT: This year’s theme is “Innovation Meets Tradition.”

28

HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN NATIONAL DINNER

THE CAUSE: The Human Rights Campaign is the leading national organization that fights for LGBTQ rights, education, and programs. DETAILS: Walter E. Washington Convention Center; 5:00 p.m.; $400; contact HRC events team galadinners@hrc.org.

28

NATIONAL SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA SEASON-

OPENING GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Anne K. Altman, Daniel S. Pelino and L. Patrick Chauvin

THE CAUSE: The proceeds from the gala support the NSO’s educational and community engagement programs. DETAILS: The REACH and Concert Hall at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts; reception 5:30 p.m., concert 7:00 p.m., dinner and dancing 8:30 p.m.; black-tie; ticket packages start at $1,200; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact John Guastello (202) 416-8102.

63

SEPTEMBER (continued)

 28Â

NORTHERN VIRGINIA THERAPEUTIC RIDING PROGRAM’S ‘RIDE TO THRIVE’ POLO CLASSIC

EVENT CHAIRS: Sherrie Beckstead and Will Thomas

THE CAUSE: Northern Virginia Therapeutic Riding Program is a non-proďŹ t organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with disabilities through equineassisted activities. DETAILS: Great Meadow, The Plains, Va.; gates open 1:00 p.m., match 3:00 p.m.; summer chic; $85; limited VIP available; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact (703) 764-0269 or visit nvtrp. org/polo-classic.

29Â

CHANCE FOR LIFE PEDIATRIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH POKER TOURNAMENT

THE CAUSE: Proceeds will beneďŹ t Chance for Life, furthering its pediatric cancer research initiatives and clinical trials. DETAILS: Union District Oyster Bar & Lounge; 3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.; $125 for afterparty ticket; $5,000 for a seat in poker game; contact info@ chanceforlife.net.

OCTOBER 2019

3Â

ALIANTA GALA

EVENT CHAIR: Lauren Rakolta THE CAUSE: Alianta is an alliance to help strengthen U.S.-Romanian relations across culture, business and security. DETAILS: Conrad Hotel; contact Gabriela Sandoz, gabriela.sandoz@ gmail.com.

 3Â

COMMUNITY OF HOPE’S ‘NIGHT OF HOPE’

EVENT CHAIR: Dr. Tabari Baker THE CAUSE: The evening will beneďŹ t Community of Hope’s work to end homelessness and improve health for families in the District. DETAILS: The Potomac View Terrace; 6:30 p.m.; business or cocktail attire; $85; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Charla Everhart (202) 4077760, c.everhart@cohdc.org. NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY’S AMBASSADOR’S BALL SEPTEMBER YOKO SUGIYAMA HONORARY CHAIR AND SUSAN J POMPEO CHAIR PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE THE ANNUAL AMBASSADORS BALL HONORS THE WASHINGTON DIPLOMATIC CORPS AND MEMBERS OF CONGRESS FOR THEIR MANY CONTRIBUTIONS TO CHARITABLE AND HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE TREATMENT RESEARCH AND OTHER PROGRAMS FOR PATIENTS OR FAMILIES AFFECTED BY MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

64

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

 5Â

HEROES CURING CHILDHOOD CANCER GALA

THE CAUSE: The evening beneďŹ ts the pediatric cancer programs and research at Children’s National. DETAILS: Conrad Washington; 7:00

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

7+( :$6+,1*721 %$//(7 *$/$ MAY

SARA LANGE AND ASHLEY TAYLOR BRONCZEK PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY WITH TWB DANCERS OSCAR SANCHEZ AND ARIEL MARTINEZ TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE THE EVENING SUPPORTS ARTS AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND PRODUCTIONS OF THE WASHINGTON BALLET

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

65

october (continued) p.m.; black-tie; $500; sponsorships start at $2,000; contact Allison Munoz (301) 565-8424, AGMunoz@ childrensnational.org.

5

Rock Creek Gala

Event Chairs: David DeSantis and

Robin Appia The Cause: Rock Creek Conservancy’s mission is to restore and protect Rock Creek and its parklands as a natural oasis for the community. Details: Embassy of New Zealand; 7:00 p.m.; cocktail attire; $300; sponsorships start at $1,500; visit rockcreekgala.com or contact gala@rockcreekconservancy. org.

11

AfterDark4THEARC

Event Chairs: Rhona

Friedman

The Cause: The annual gala supports the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus and its partners, which host dance and music classes, fine arts and other programming and services for underserved communities. Details: The Wharf; concert at The Anthem 6:30 p.m., dinner at The Intercontinental 8:30 p.m.; $1,500; sponsorships start at $10,000; contact Beth Sadler (202) 889-5901 x100, BSadler@thearcdc.org. Highlight: Musical performances from Norah Jones and Katy Perry.

15

Washington Area Women’s Foundation Leadership Luncheon

The Cause: The Women’s Foundation works to mobilize the local community by providing solutions to eliminate the barriers that disproportionately hinder women and girls from achieving economic security. Details: Washington Marriott Wardman Park; 11:00 a.m.; $200; sponsorships start at $500; contact (202) 347-7737, info@wawf.org.

16 lombardi women april 22, 2020

janet davis and barbara mcduffie photographed at the falls/ ttr sotheby’s international realty The Cause: The event supports breast cancer research at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center.

66

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

A Wider Circle’s Community Ball

The Cause: The reception marks the gathering of influential leaders who engage in conversations regarding A Wider Circle’s mission to end poverty. Programs focus on the provision of basic need items, workforce development, wraparound support and neighborhood revitalization to alleviate poverty and make long-lasting changes

| SEPTEMBER

2019

| washingtonlife.com

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary of Washington, DC’s Fashion Show october 25

robyne barth, ricky ervins, faye Morrissette and brian mitchell photographed at the falls/ ttr sotheby’s international realty touch ups by carola myers makeup & hair artists The Cause: Proceeds support local programs including Turning Point Center, providing assistance to previously homeless young mothers with children, as well as Camp Happyland and a new Anti-Human Trafficking Program.

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

| SEPTEMBER

2019

| washingtonlife.com

67

OCTOBER (continued) to low-income families. DETAILS: National Building Museum; 7:00 p.m.; $275; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Shannon Hawkins (301) 608-3504, shannon@ awidercircle.org.

16Â

COLLEGE SUCCESS FOUNDATION – DC’S BREAKFAST FUNDRAISER

THE CAUSE: The College Success Foundation – DC provides underserved and local low-income students with the academic, social, emotional, and ďŹ nancial support they need to graduate from college and thrive in life. DETAILS: Marriott Washington Wardman Park Hotel; 7:30 a.m.; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact (202) 207-1817, events@collegesuccessfoundation.org.

 16Â

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HOUSE OF WASHINGTON’S GLOBAL LEADERSHIP AWARDS DINNER

EVENT CHAIRS: Lisa Barry and Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai (Diplomatic)

THE CAUSE: The Awards Dinner supports ISH-DC’s mission of providing young scholars and professionals a unique cross-cultural experience that helps them become dynamic global citizens and leaders. DETAILS: The Whittemore House; 6:15 p.m.; business attire; $400; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Jill Holcomb (202) 232-4007, jholcomb@ishdc.org. HIGHLIGHT: The honorees are Esther Coopersmith, Rep. Rick Larsen and Rep. Mark Meadows.

 17–20Â

MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL

DETAILS: info@middleburgďŹ lm.org. HIGHLIGHTS: Four days of carefully curated narrative and documentary ďŹ lm screenings across theater venues in Middleburg,Va.

18Â

ARTSFAIRFAX’S ANNUAL ARTS AWARDS

THE CAUSE: The event brings together

7($&+ )25 $0(5,&$¡6 œ/($'(56+,3 &+$1*,1* /,9(6¡ *$/$ FEBRUARY

OLGA AND SCOTT JAECKEL PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY THE CAUSE THE EVENT BENEFITS TEACH FOR AMERICA LEADERS WHOSE EFFORTS PAVE THE WAY FOR EDUCATIONAL EQUITY FOR ALL CHILDREN

68

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

the arts, business and civic communities to celebrate the contributions of artists and organizations for supporting the arts in Fairfax County. DETAILS: Fairview Park Marriott Hotel; 12:00 p.m.; $250; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact (703) 642-0862, artsawards@artsfairfax.org.

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

+$/&<21 $:$5'6 SEPTEMBER

GINA ADAMS AND SIMONE FRIEDMAN PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE THE EVENT WILL CELEBRATE HALCYON A NON-PROFIT DEDICATED TO LIFTING UP SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS AND CIVIC-MINDED ARTISTS THE HALCYON AWARDS PRESENTED AT THIS EVENT HONOR TALENTED ARTS ICONS SUCCESSFUL SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS AND PUBLIC POLICY VISIONARIES CHANGEMAKERS AND TRAILBLAZERS WHO INSPIRE HALCYON AND ALL THE EMERGING CREATIVES WITH WHOM THEY WORK

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

69

OCTOBER (continued)

18Â

FAIR CHANCE BUTTERFLY BASH

EVENT CHAIRS: Elizabeth Engel, Donnell Kearney and Scott Provinse THE CAUSE: Proceeds from the event support nonproďŹ t organizations that work with over 80,000 children and low-income families in the nation’s capital. DETAILS: Washington National Cathedral; 7:00 p.m.; cocktail attire; $200; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact Benjamin Bradburn (202) 4672428, bbradburn@fairchancedc.org.

 18Â

THE WASHINGTON BALLET’S GRAND JETÉ SOIRÉE

EVENT CHAIRS: Ginger Dietrich, Monica Garcia Harms, and Jennie P. McConagha THE CAUSE: The Women’s Committee of The Washington Ballet will host the season opening celebration with an exclusive preview of dancers performing an excerpt from NEXTsteps. DETAILS: Smithsonian American Art Museum, Kogod Courtyard; 6:00 p.m.; bold cocktail attire; $350; sponsorships start at $1,000; Emily Magenheimer or Rebecca Soloway, rsvp@ washingtonballet.org. HIGHLIGHT: The evening will feature cocktails and dinner with company dancers.

19Â

HUMAN RESCUE ALLIANCE’S BARK BALL

THE CAUSE: Humane Rescue Alliance, Washington, D.C.’s only animal welfare organization that supports the animals and communities of Washington. DETAILS: Washington Hilton; 6:00 p.m.; black-tie; $150; sponsorships start at $3,500; contact (202) 735-0324, events@humanerescuealliance.org.

 19Â

THURGOOD MARSHALL COLLEGE FUND AWARDS GALA

EVENT CHAIR: Charles Merinoff THE CAUSE: The Thurgood Marshall

&+25$/ $576 62&,(7< 2) :$6+,1*721¡6 +2/,'$< &21&(57 *$/$ DECEMBER

SUE AND MARTY GOODHART; ALLISON GOODHART DUSHUTTLE PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE THIS HOLIDAY-SEASON HIGHLIGHT SUPPORTS EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND PUBLIC OUTREACH THROUGH MUSIC AS WELL AS CHORAL ARTS’ WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCES

70

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

College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing publicly-supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Black Institutions. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs and strategic partnerships TMCF is a vital resource in the K-12 and higher

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

0(5,',$1 %$// OCTOBER ROY AND MANISHA KAPANI MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER PHOTO BY JEFF MASON THE CAUSE THE MERIDIAN BALL SUPPORTS MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER A NON-PARTISAN DIPLOMATIC CENTER THAT STRENGTHENS ENGAGEMENT BETWEEN THE U S AND THE WORLD BY DEVELOPING AND CONNECTING GLOBAL LEADERS THROUGH CULTURE AND COLLABORATION

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

71

october (continued) education space. Details: Washington Marriott Wardman Park; cocktail reception 5:00 p.m., dinner and program 7:15 p.m.; black-tie; $500; contact George F. Spencer (202) 7477188, george.spencer@tmcf.org.

19

Woolly Mammoth’s Dinner on Stage

The Cause: Woolly Mammoth Theatre is a non-profit organization that serves as an essential research and development role within the American theater. Details: Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, $525; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Annalise Aguirre (202) 312-5265, events@wollymammoth.net.

22

Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s ‘Chefs for Equality’

The Cause: Advocating for LGBTQ equality through the support of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, the largest civil rights organization nationwide. Details: Washington National Cathedral; 5:30 p.m.; $225; contact chefstickets@hrc.org.

22

International Women’s Media Foundation’s Courage in Journalism Awards Dinner

The Cause: IWMF leads efforts that support, protect and recognize female journalists who risk their lives to bring vital stories that would otherwise go unreported. Details: Newseum; 6:30 p.m.; $500; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Kaitlin Garthwaite (212) 254-6677, kgarthwaite@inezevents.com.

24

March of Dimes’ Signature Chefs Auction

The Cause: Proceeds go to research, funding, and advocacy programs sponsored by the March of Dimes Foundation. Details: Marriott Marquis; 6:00 p.m.; business attire; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Kate Leib (571) 2572309, kleib@marchofdimes.org. inova honors dinner

25

november 15

shaza anderson photographed at the falls / ttr sotheby’s international realty touch ups by carola myers makeup & hair artists The Cause: An Evening with the Inova Stars to recognize three outstanding teams of healthcare professionals and clinicians who always put patients and families first while serving our community.

72

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

Meridian Ball

Event Chairs: Manisha and Roy Kapani The Cause: The Meridian Ball supports Meridian International Center, a non-partisan diplomatic center that

| SEPTEMBER

2019

| washingtonlife.com

-2$1 +,6$2.$ ¶0$.( $ ',))(5(1&(· *$/$ SEPTEMBER

BOB HISAOKA AND DANA HINES PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS / TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY THE CAUSE IN ITS TH YEAR THE GALA DEDICATES PERCENT OF ITS PROCEEDS TO LIFE WITH CANCER THE EDUCATIONAL INFORMATIVE AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM OF THE INOVA SCHAR CANCER INSTITUTE LIFE WITH CANCER PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR CANCER PATIENTS AND THEIR LOVED ONES SMITH CENTER FOR HEALING AND THE ARTS THE ONLY INDEPENDENT CANCER SUPPORT CENTER BASED IN WASHINGTON D C RECEIVES PERCENT OF ALL PROCEEDS

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

73

OCTOBER (continued)

COMMUNITY OF HOPE

STRIVING FOR HEALTHY OUTCOMES BY DR. TABARI BAKER, EVENT CHAIR

strengthens engagement between the U.S. and the world by developing and connecting global leaders through culture and collaboration. DETAILS: Meridian House; 9:00 p.m.; black tie; $1,000; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Olivia Dorieux (202) 939-5892, odorieux@meridian.org. HIGHLIGHTS: Guests are invited to join one of 35 ambassador-hosted dinners followed by dessert and dancing at the historic Meridian House, as well as a Global Leadership Summit, which will take place earlier in the day.

25

THE SALVATION ARMY WOMEN’S AUXILIARY OF WASHINGTON, DC’S 70TH ANNIVERSARY FASHION SHOW

I

n my experience as a volunteer for Community of Hope over the last five years, and now as chairman of the board of directors, I have seen first hand the impact of this non-profit organization on the lives of individuals and families. Over the past five years, Community of Hope has provided health services to 23,856 patients and helped to end homelessness for 2,500 families. As we look ahead to the future, we are committed to reducing inequities in maternal and child health outcomes. I am grateful to the many Washingtonians who support Community of Hope, unified in the belief that everyone deserves good health, a stable home, a sustaining income and hope. Please join us for the annual “Night of Hope, Voices of our City” event on Thursday, October 3, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. at The Potomac View Terrace ( 2215 Constitution Ave. NW). There we will celebrate Community of Hope’s generous supporters, committed partners, enthusiastic board members and dedicated staff. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to show support for Community of Hope and celebrate our shared mission to end family homelessness in Washington. I am sure that you, like me, will be inspired by the stories of hope, the organization’s vision for the future and the impact of community support. I look forward to seeing you there. For more information visit communityofhopedc.org.

74

EVENT CHAIR: Robyne Barth; Faye Morissette (Turning Point Liaison) THE CAUSE: Proceeds support local programs including Turning Point Center, providing assistance to previously homeless young mothers with children, as well as Camp Happyland and a new Anti-Human Trafficking Program. DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner; 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.; $150; sponsorships start at $505; contact (202) 756-2618. HIGHLIGHTS: Former NFL player Brian Mitchell will serve as the event emcee. The event will showcase silent and live auctions, including chances to bid on four golf games; each with one golf pro and one of these former NFL players and Washington Redskins: Brian Mitchell, Santana Moss, Ricky Ervins and Rock Cartwright.Visit salvationarmynca.org for more information.

26

PEN/FAULKNER GALA: RISE UP!

EVENT CHAIRS: Willee Lewis (Chair); Lisa Barry, Julie Garcia, Dale LeFebvre, Katherine Stephen, Annie Totah, Jayne Visser (Co-chairs) THE CAUSE: The PEN/ Faulkner Award for Fiction and Writers in Schools programming. DETAILS: Katzen Arts Center, American University; 6:30 p.m. cocktails; 7:30 p.m. Dinner program; $600; sponsorships starting at $2,000; contact Shahenda Helmy (202) 898-9063, shahenda@penfaulkner.org.

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

26

TRANSFORMER SILENT AUCTION & BENEFIT PARTY

EVENT CHAIRS: Lisa Brown and Carole Feld THE CAUSE: The proceeds support emerging artists and organization’s exhibits. DETAILS: Corcoran School of the Arts & Design; $200; visit transformerdc.org. HIGHLIGHT: 200 original artworks will be available for bidding.

26

WASHINGTON INTERNATIONAL HORSESHOW PRESIDENT’S CUP PARTY

THE CAUSE: The evening benefits the United States Equestrian Team Foundation, which supports competition, training, coaching and educational needs of equestrians across the country. DETAILS: Stella Lounge VIP Club at Capital One Arena; 6:30 p.m.; cocktail/equestrian chic attire; $150; Mary Helen Shaughnessy maryhelen@ wihs.org. HIGHLIGHTS: Cocktails, dinner and a world class equestrian competition.

27

MARK TWAIN PRIZE FOR AMERICAN HUMOR

THE CAUSE: Members of the entertainment community gather to honor the world’s greatest humorists. DETAILS: Kennedy Center Concert Hall; 5:00 p.m.; business attire; sponsorships start at $1,300; contact (202) 416-8335, mtp@kennedy-center.org. HIGHLIGHTS: In its 22nd year, the annual event will honor internationally recognized stand-up comedian Dave Chappelle. The taped PBS broadcast will air January 6, 2020.

28

J STREET GALA

THE CAUSE: The pro-Israel, propeace group organizes and mobilizes Americans who want Israel to be secure, democratic and the national home of Jewish people. DETAILS: Walter E. Washington Convention Center; $300; sponsorships start at $1,800; contact info@jstreet.org.

NOVEMBER 2019

1

KNOCK OUT ABUSE AGAINST WOMEN GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Tara Engel and Aba Kwawu

THE CAUSE: Proceeds from the event provide funding for four local beneficiaries who aid survivors of

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

$ 9,17$*( $))$,5 $ 1,*+7 2) ),1( :,1( )22' 3$,5,1*6 %(1(),7,1* &+,/'5(1·6 1$7,21$/ MARCH

KATHIE WILLIAMS, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY THE CAUSE PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE BOARD OF VISITORS OF CHILDREN’S NATIONAL’S ANNUAL GRANTS AND MAJOR GIFT PROGRAM THAT HELP DOCTORS NURSES AND STAFF AT CHILDREN’S NATIONAL DEVELOP AND SUSTAIN CUTTING-EDGE RESEARCH INNOVATIONS TREATMENTS AND PROGRAMS TO SERVE THE CHILDREN TREATED AT THIS WORLD-CLASS INSTITUTION

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

75

NOVEMBER (continued) domestic violence. DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Washington; black-tie; $1,000; knockoutabuse.org.

1Â

NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OPENING CELEBRATION GALA

THE CAUSE: The event will support National Children’s Museum and its mission to inspire children to care about and change the world through interactive exhibits exploring science, technology, engineering, art and math. DETAILS: Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium; 6:00 p.m.; $750; sponsorships start at $7,500; contact Sveta Wilkson swilkson@ nationalchildrensmuseum.org.

 2Â

COLORECTAL CANCER ALLIANCE’S ‘BLUE HOPE BASH’

EVENT CHAIRS: Curtis and Amanda Polk; Stan and Nina Snow

THE CAUSE: Proceeds beneďŹ t the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and its research, prevention and patient support programs. DETAILS: Andrew Mellon Auditorium; 6:30 p.m.; festive blue cocktail attire; limited number of VIP tickets available at $1,500; sponsorships start at $7,500; contact Stephanie Marcos-Hanns (202) 628-0123, bluehopebash@ccalliance. org. HIGHLIGHT: NBC’s Craig Melvin will emcee the ninth annual event.

2Â

NATIONAL ITALIAN AMERICAN FOUNDATION GALA

THE CAUSE: The 44th annual event is dedicated to preserving, promoting and protecting Italian American heritage. DETAILS: Omni Shoreham Hotel; 5:30 p.m.; $500; sponsorships start at $1,500; contact information@niaf.org.

 2Â

SOUTHEAST TENNIS & LEARNING CENTER’S ‘25... AND STILL WE THRIVE’ 25-YEAR CELEBRATION OF THE RECREATION WISH LIST COMMITTEE

1257+(51 9,5*,1,$ 7+(5$3(87,& 5,',1* 352*5$0¡6 œ5,'( 72 7+5,9(¡ 32/2 &/$66,& SEPTEMBER

WILL THOMAS AND SHERRIE BECKSTEAD PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS / TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE NORTHERN VIRGINIA THERAPEUTIC RIDING PROGRAM IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO IMPROVING THE LIVES OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES THROUGH EQUINE-ASSISTED ACTIVITIES

76

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

EVENT CHAIR: Maggie FitzPatrick;Venus and Serena Williams (Honorary) THE CAUSE: Recognizing the work of the Recreation Wish List Committee and the Southeast Tennis and Learning Center for its impact on young athletes and the community. DETAILS: Southeast Tennis and Learning Center; 6:00 p.m. reception; 8:00 p.m. (dining, program and dancing); tennis shoes and ties; $250; sponsorships start

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HOUSE

CITYDANCE CITYDANCE

STUDENTS WHO INSPIRE

THE POWER OF DANCE

BY JANET BLANCHARD, ISH-DC BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND JAMES BLANCHARD, FORMER GOVERNOR OF MICHIGAN AND FORMER U.S. AMBASSADOR TO CANADA

T

he students of International Student House of Washington DC (ISH-DC) truly inspire us. Imagine 100 graduate students and young professionals from dozens of countries living and dining together under one roof. They come from diverse backgrounds, but are united by a common goal to understand the world. We have met a young woman who grew up in an area of rural Pakistan where girls are not educated; a German who volunteered his time helping Holocaust survivors in Ohio, and an American who discusses James and Janet Blanchard international development with housemates from Nigeria, India and Sweden. They are young leaders in the making, determined to help shape the world for the better. Our Global Leadership Awards Dinner raises funds in support of ISHDC’s important mission of promoting international educational exchange and understanding. The Student House provides a unique cross-cultural experience and programs that build community and help them become dynamic global citizens. Every year, nearly 300 scholars from 60 countries live in ISH-DC’s global community and build life-long connections and friendships. Each resident takes the lessons learned with them to become a bridge builder and a peace maker. Since its founding in 1936, the International Student House has welcomed 15,500 young graduate students and professionals from the U.S. and 140 countries. Alumni have gone on to serve as foreign ambassadors, prime ministers, government officials, CEOs, entrepreneurs and academics. We hope you will join us for our 2019 Global Leadership Awards Dinner and get to know some of these outstanding young people who are destined to be future world leaders. The Global Leadership Awards Dinner will be held on October 16. Visit www.ishdc.org for more details.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

BY PAUL WHARTON

C

The CityDance DREAM Gala includes fabulous dance performances and a one-of-a-kind after-party. The best thing about this magical evening is seeing the divine artistry of dancers from all over the world. The performances are electrifying and conclude with the entire audience on their feet! We keep the energy flowing at the after-party, where the audience become the dancers, and the dancers become their friends. I’m thrilled to be this year’s gala chair and pull a few special surprises out of my sleeve. We will have the transformative power of dance, the best post-performance we’ve had to date and special celebrity guests to elevate the excitement. CityDance DREAM is a great unifier. This is the moment for supporters to see exactly where your money is going and how it’s changing lives. Once you attend, you will make a point to return each year. The CityDance DREAM Gala will be held in May 2020. Visit www. citydance.net for more details.

Paul Wharton (Photo by XMB Photography)

77

NOVEMBER (continued) at $5,000; contact Alfreda V. Davis (202) 297-0445, alfreda.davis@hotmail.com.

4

9

SHAKESPEARE THEATRE COMPANY GALA

COLORECTAL CANCER ALLIANCE

BLUE HOPE BASH JOIN BALL CHAIRS AMANDA AND CURTIS POLK; NINA AND STAN SNOW IN THE FIGHT TO END COLON CANCER

CYSTIC FIBROSIS FOUNDATION’S ‘CELEBRATE EVERY BREATH’ GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: DeDe and Dallas Lea;

THE CAUSE: The event will benefit the

Gail and Jeff MacKinnon THE CAUSE: The gala provides funding for the Shakespeare Theatre Company’s arts education and community engagement programs. DETAILS: National Building Museum (dinner) and Sidney Harman Hall (performance and dessert); reception and dinner 5:30 p.m., performance 7:45 p.m.; black-tie optional; $1,000; sponsorships start at $10,000; contact Clare Klanderman (202) 547-3230 ext. 2327, STCGala@shakespearetheatre. org.

6

THE HONORABLE WILLIAM H. WEBSTER DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD DINNER

EVENT CHAIRS: Michael Morell and Jill Singer

THE CAUSE: The Spy Museum, a Curtis and Amanda Polk

Nina and Stan Snow

Join the Washington region’s most generous supporters for a bluehued evening aimed at ending colorectal cancer in our lifetime. The Colorectal Cancer Alliance will host its annual Blue Hope Bash gala on Saturday, November 2, at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium to celebrate the Alliance’s 20th anniversary and raise funds to support its efforts to increase awareness and screening, care for patients and their families and fund critical research. Co-chairs Curtis and Amanda Polk and Stan and Nina Snow along with emcee Craig Melvin, news anchor, NBC News’ Today co-host, 3rd hour of NBC News’ Today will preside over entertainment by the world-famous Jersey Boys as guests — dressed in elegant blue — bid on exclusive items in silent and live auctions and sip champagne before dancing into the night at the first-ever Bash After Dark party. “Our dear friend, Michelle Benaim, passed away from colorectal cancer at 49 years old,” Amanda Polk and Nina Snow explained. “This shocking event opened our eyes to the fact that colorectal cancer is showing up in young people at an alarming rate.” The Blue Hope Bash event series is the premier fundraiser of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. It occurs in cities across America to celebrate survivorship and remember loved ones. Grab your friends for a night out in Washington to support the Alliance’s lifesaving efforts. Visit bluehopbash.org for more information.

nonprofit organization, educates the public about espionage and intelligence in an engaging way and provides a context that fosters understanding of their important role in and impact on current and historic events. DETAILS: International Spy Museum; 6:00 p.m.; $595; sponsorships start at $7,500; contact Sofia Morales (202) 654-2853, smorales@spymuseum.org. HIGHLIGHT: The evening’s honoree is General Michael V. Hayden.

7

SMITHSONIAN FOOD HISTORY GALA

THE CAUSE: To support the ongoing

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, which funds research and drug development, promotes individualized treatments, and ensures access to high-quality, specialized care. DETAILS: Conrad Hotel; 6:30 p.m.; $1,500 per ticket pair; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Chelsea Director (301) 215-7428, cdirector@cff.org.

9

DC’S DANCING STARS GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Maria Coakley David and Jim David THE CAUSE: Dancers and local celebrities compete for a $10,000 grand prize awarded to a charity of their choice. DETAILS: Four Seasons Hotel; 6:00 p.m.; black-tie; $195; sponsorships start at $500; contact Maria Coakley David (703) 593-8791, mcdavid@cjcoakley. com.

9

S.O.M.E. (SO OTHERS MIGHT EAT) GALA

EVENT CHAIR: Thomas Kuhn and Suzanne Clark (Auction chair) THE CAUSE: Proceeds support SOME’s affordable housing programs for homeless and low income families. DETAILS: National Building Museum; 6:00 p.m.; $400; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Ingrid Feigenbaum (202) 750-3738, ifeigenbaum@some. org.

10

FLICKS4CHANGE FILM FESTIVAL

THE CAUSE: Flicks4Change unites

research, collecting and programs of Smithsonian’s Food History programming and exhibitions. DETAILS: National Museum of American History; 6:30 p.m.; blacktie; $500; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact Kari Fantasia (202) 633-3302, FantasiaKa@si.edu. HIGHLIGHT: Chef José Andrés will be honored as the 2019 recipient of the Julia Child Award.

difference makers with those that want to make a difference through the screening of socially conscious short films from around the globe. DETAILS: Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center; 1:00 p.m.- 9:00 p.m.; $20; contact James Hawthorn james@flicks4change. org; visit flicks4change.org for more information.

8

10

AMERICAN VETERANS BALL

THE CAUSE: The goal of the

American Veterans Ball is to connect past and present military professionals to the future leaders of America. DETAILS: MGM National Harbor; 5:00

78

p.m.; $100.; contact (540)-288-7100, avb2019@americansveteransball.org.

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

ACADEMY OF UNITED STATES VETERANS’ VETERANS DAY GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Maj. Gen. Arnold Punaro (Honorary)

THE CAUSE: The Academy of United States Veterans Foundation is a non-

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

&$3,7$/ &$5,1*·6 ¶3$66,21 )25 &$5,1*· *$/$ NOVEMBER

DANNI AND DAVE LOUGEE; SHARON AND DONN DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE THE ANNUAL CELEBRATION RECOGNIZES CAPITAL CARING’S ONGOING EFFORTS TO IMPROVE CARE FOR THOSE FACING ADVANCED ILLNESS PROCEEDS FROM THIS YEAR’S GALA WILL BENEFIT CAPITAL CARING’S EXTRAORDINARY HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE HOME CARE SERVICES

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

79

PEN /FAULKNER

DEDICATING THE PEN/FAULKNER GALA TO THE LATE PHILANTHROPIST DONALD BROWN BY WILLEE LEWIS

Ann Brown and Willee Lewis (Photo by Katherine Kendall)

T

he political infighting and intrigue that dominate the daily narrative in our nation’s capital will take a backseat to Washington’s literary set on October 26 as the PEN/Faulkner Foundation stages its annual gala at the Katzen Arts Center. In its 31st year, the gala is a unique evening in Washington, which celebrates important voices in contemporary American literature and supports arts education in our city’s schools. There will be an additional dynamic to resonate within the District’s donor community on that occasion. For decades, Donald Brown and his family have been synonymous with charitable generosity. In recognition, the PEN/Faulkner Foundation will pay special tribute to the Honorable Ann Brown, whose embrace of philanthropy dovetailed with a career of public advocacy for consumer safety as chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission during the Clinton Administration. Her contributions to the community will be honored along with the philanthropic passions of her late husband, Donald A. Brown, who died on March 6. The gala will be dedicated to his memory. Donald, who amassed a personal fortune as a founding partner of the

80

Donald Brown Washington-based real estate giant JBG, supported many local causes. But his particular focus was on education and how schools impacted the lives and futures of young people from underserved neighborhoods. This perspective and commitment reflected his own background as a native Washingtonian and student in the D.C. public school system. As a longtime PEN/Faulkner board member I was eager to introduce Donald to the foundation’s innovative WritersInSchools program, which places established writers in public high school classrooms to mentor young readers and future writers. During one such visit, he witnessed the impact that prolific author Joyce Carol Oates had on the students of the SEED School, which he helped found. “This morning’s experience blew me away,” Donald told me. He went on to become a dedicated benefactor to the program. A memorial service for the late Donald Brown is scheduled for Sept. 18 at 10:30 a.m. at the Washington Hebrew Congregation. For more information visit penfaulkner.org.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

:2/) 75$3 %$// SEPTEMBER

GOURI MIRPURI AND SINGAPORE AMBASSADOR ASHOK MIRPURI; ANNIE AND PATRICK PACIOUS; MANJULA PINDIPROLU AND SRIKANT SASTRY PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE FALLS/ TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY TOUCH UPS BY CAROLA MYERS MAKEUP & HAIR ARTISTS THE CAUSE WOLF TRAP FOUNDATION FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT PROVIDES ARTS AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS TO NEARLY PEOPLE OF ALL AGES LOCALLY AND ACROSS THE COUNTRY EVERY YEAR

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

81

NOVEMBER (continued) proďŹ t organization that encourages a uniďŹ ed veterans community. DETAILS: Army Navy Country Club; 5:00 p.m.; black-tie optional; $300 ($150 for active duty military); sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Theresa Rudacille (703) 591-4965, marketing@cause-usa.org.

13Â

NATIONAL ARCHIVES’ RECORDS OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

THE CAUSE: The National Archives Foundation will name Cokie Roberts as its 2019 award recipient in recognition of her commitment to chronicling the American story as an award-winning journalist, historian, political commentator and bestselling author. DETAILS: National Archives, $500; sponsorships start at $50,000; contact Rachel Colombana (202) 357-5229, rachel.colombana@archivesfoundation. org.

 14Â

FIGHT NIGHT 2019

EVENT CHAIR: David Fensterheim (chairman of Fight For Children and trustee of the Joseph E. Robert Charitable Trust) THE CAUSE: Fight Night supports the critical work of Fight For Children, whose mission is to ensure quality youth sports programming in highneed communities throughout Washington, D.C. DETAILS: Washington Hilton; 6:00 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.; black-tie; tables starting at $10,500; sponsorships start at $35,000; contact Judy Wrench (202) 772-0417, judy.wrench@FightForChildren.org. HIGHLIGHT: Fight Night is celebrating 30 years in 2019.

 14Â

LAB SCHOOL OF WASHINGTON GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Jennifer and Michael

6287+($67 7(11,6 /($51,1* &(17(5¡6 œ $1' 67,// :( 7+5,9(¡ <($5 &(/(%5$7,21 2) 7+( 5(&5($7,21 :,6+ /,67 &200,77(( NOVEMBER

CORA MASTERS BARRY AND MAGGIE FITZPATRICK PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE SOUTHEAST TENNIS AND LEARNING CENTER THE CAUSE RECOGNIZING THE WORK OF THE RECREATION WISH LIST COMMITTEE AND THE SOUTHEAST TENNIS AND LEARNING CENTER FOR ITS IMPACT ON YOUNG ATHLETES AND THE COMMUNITY

82

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

E.G. Miller; Caroline and Liam Coakley THE CAUSE: All funds raised will go towards ďŹ nancial aid for students and professional development opportunities for the Lab School’s educators. DETAILS: National Building Museum; 6:00 p.m.; $275; sponsorships start at $7,500; contact Dia Ruocco (202) 9442204, dia.ruocco@labschool.org. HIGHLIGHT: This year’s event theme is “Our Educators, Our Starsâ€? and will highlight the work of the school’s

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

CHILDREN’S NATIONAL

CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF CARING FOR OUR COMMUNITY BY DR. KURT NEWMAN, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, CHILDREN’S NATIONAL

O

ne of the best parts of my job as CEO of Children’s National is celebrating milestones with patients. I’m sure it’s no surprise that birthdays are especially popular with the children in our care. Who doesn’t love balloons and cake, even on the eve of surgery or in the midst of a long illness? In 2020, Children’s National will mark its own big birthday—150 years of caring for children in our nation’s capital and beyond. Our Children’s Ball, on April 18 at The Anthem on Washington’s District Wharf, will kick off a year-long 150th birthday celebration with everyone who helps make Children’s National what it is today. This milestone is an opportunity to commemorate our rich history and create stronger futures for children. Philanthropy has propelled Children’s National from a 12-bed hospital that cared for Civil War orphans to a nationally top-ranked pediatric institution that treats children from around the world. Today, we’re pioneering cancer treatment without chemotherapy, launching new initiatives in mental health and using telemedicine to deliver our top-ranked neonatal care globally. Volunteer leaders who founded our hospital understood the importance of creating a place that meets the needs of every child. Today, we carry on their legacy, 150 years stronger. Every family can receive the exceptional, compassionate care we provide—no matter what. As we look to the future, we’re asking bigger, bolder questions to transform pediatric medicine for children everywhere. In 2020, we will open the Children’s National Research & Innovation Campus on the site of the former Walter Reed Army Medical Center. This one-of-a-kind hub for discovery will bring together inventors, entrepreneurs, researchers, care providers and patient families to speed the arrival of new solutions to childhood’s most challenging diseases. We’re also expanding our deep commitment to community health. At our new campus, and across the region, new outpatient health centers will open so that more families can receive the best primary and specialty care where they live, work and play. These are just some of the many ways we are connecting care, community and discovery to help every child grow up stronger. We invite you to help us build a legacy for the next 150 years. Please join us at Children’s Ball 2020 to celebrate our remarkable milestone birthday. Balloons and cake are just the start of what will be a stellar evening worthy of 150 years of caring for our community. Together, with your generous support, we can improve the health of children today and for generations to come.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

83

NOVEMBER (continued)

16

ATLAS CORPS ‘DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION’ GALA

faculty using a “starry night” motif.

CLC GLOBAL ADVISORS

CAROLE CRIST & BROCK PIERCE CO-HOST AN EXTRAORDINARY NIGHT FOR PUERTO RICO

15

THE CAUSE: Atlas Corps is an

INOVA HONORS DINNER

EVENT CHAIRS: Shaza

Anderson and Laurie Peterson THE CAUSE: An evening with the Inova Stars to recognize three outstanding teams of healthcare professionals and clinicians who always put patients and families first while serving our community. DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner; 6:00 p.m.; cocktail attire; $500; sponsorship starts at $3,000; contact Kara Burke (703) 289-2077, Kara. Burke@inova.org.

15

MENTOR INTERNATIONAL’S 25TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Brock Pierce

Carole Crist

The Rebuild Puerto Rico Gala will be a highlight of this year’s Miami Art Basel. The gala will raise funds to benefit various non-profits committed to helping the people of Puerto Rico. “Puerto Rico has more artists per capita than anywhere in the United States, hence the reason for doing the gala at Art Basel,” says philanthropist, entrepreneur and cryptocurrency pioneer Brock Pierce. Pierce is teaming up with Carole Crist, the former first lady of Florida and the CEO of CLC Global Advisors, to plan the fundraiser. The event, which will take place at the prestigious Faena Hotel Miami Beach, will not only focus on the damage caused by Hurricane Maria, but also raise awareness of Puerto Rico in general. Pierce often says that “Puerto Rico has a PR problem.” He believes the solution is making people more aware of Puerto Rico’s rich culture, art, cuisine, dazzling beaches, mountains and its amazing rainforest, as well as the opportunity for economic development and innovative job creation in Puerto Rico. “It’s one of those places that most people have just kind of forgotten exists, and it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the United States,” Pierce says. Pierce has adopted Puerto Rico as his home and quickly became one of its biggest boosters, helping to fund several projects aimed at improving conditions on the island through his non-profit Integro Foundation. “Brock is Mr. Puerto Rico,” Crist says. “I have never met someone so intellectually engaged, with an ability to mobilize people for good. His sincerity and authenticity, as it relates to his commitment to Puerto Rico and this project, is simply extraordinary.” Crist felt it was a natural fit to join forces with Pierce due to the strong ties between the state of Florida and Puerto Rico, in addition to her company’s mission of “Capital with a Conscience and improving the lives of people.” For more information about the benefit for Puerto Rico to be held on Thursday, December 5 at Faena Hotel Miami Beach, visit RebuildPuertoRico.net.

84

16-17

METROCOOKING DC

Honorary Committee: Swedish Ambassador Karin Olofsdotter; Bulgarian Ambassador Tihomir Stoytchev and Ambassador of Monaco Maguy Maccario Doyle THE CAUSE: All proceeds will benefit Mentor Foundation USA, empowering young people to live healthy and productive lives, free of drugs. The event will also celebrate the work of Mentor International and its affiliates around the world – 25 years of impacting more than six million youth in over 80 countries. DETAILS: Embassy of Sweden;VIP reception 6:00 p.m.; dinner and dancing 7:00 p.m.; black-tie optional; $200; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact (571) 458-7050, melissa@ mentorfoundationusa.org,. HIGHLIGHT: Her Highness Princess Sora Saud will be the evening’s special guest of honor.

16

CAPITAL CARING’S ‘PASSION FOR CARING’ GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Sharon and Donn Davis; Danni and Dave Lougee

THE CAUSE: The annual celebration recognizes Capital Caring’s ongoing efforts to improve care for those facing advanced illness. Proceeds from this year’s Gala will benefit Capital Caring’s extraordinary hospice and palliative home care services.DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner; 5:30 p.m.; cocktail attire; $400; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Katie TranLam (703) 531-2386, ktranlam@ capitalcaring.org.

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

international network of social change leaders that promotes innovation, cooperation, and solutions to address worldly problems.The annual celebration celebrates diversity and inclusion. DETAILS: Eaton DC Hotel; black-tie optional; $250; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact Abby Robinson abby@ atlascorp.com. HIGHLIGHT: Dr. Rohini Anand will be the Atlas Corps Global Changemaker honoree.

THE CAUSE: The two-day culinary event is comprised of cooking demonstrations and workshops, celebrity chef book signings, local restaurant tastings and exhibitions from a variety of foodrelated vendors. DETAILS: Walter E. Washington Convention Center; sponsorships start at $5,000; Arlene Davis (301) 493-5500, arlene.davis@ejkrause.com. HIGHLIGHT: Taste talks and meet and greet opportunities with Wolfgang Puck and Martha Stewart.

17

NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY’S AMERICAN PORTRAIT GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Randi Charno Levine and Jeffrey Levine; Joseph P. Ujobai and Eduardo Ardiles (National Chairs); Kristin and John Cecchi; Susanna and Jack Quinn (Washington, D.C. Chairs): Wayne and Catherine Reynolds (American Portrait Gala Founding Chairs) THE CAUSE: The American Portrait Gala was established in 2015 to strengthen the National Portrait Gallery’s endowment for exhibitions and to focus attention on the museum’s work with living sitters and contemporary artists. DETAILS: Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery; 7:00 p.m.; black-tie; $5,000; sponsorships start at $50,000; contact (202) 633-8309, NPG_Gala.si.edu. HIGHLIGHT: This year’s honorees include Frances Arnold, Jeffrey P. Bezos, Earth, Wind & Fire, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Indra Nooyi and Anna Wintour.

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

/$% 6&+22/ 2) :$6+,1*721 *$/$ NOVEMBER

JENNIFER MILLER AND CAROLINE COAKLEY PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE WARDMAN TOWER RESIDENCES THE CAUSE ALL FUNDS RAISED WILL GO TOWARDS FINANCIAL AID FOR STUDENTS AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE LAB SCHOOL’S EDUCATORS

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

85

NOVEMBER (continued)

19

MARCH OF DIMES’ HEROINES OF WASHINGTON

THEARC

A RIPPLE EFFECT

THIS YEAR’S CELEBRITY-STUDDED GALA CELEBRATES 14 YEARS OF THEARC AND ITS EFFORTS TO AID UNDERSERVED DISTRICT COMMUNITIES Situated on 16 acres along Oxon Run and Mississippi Ave. SE, Building Bridges Across the River (BBAR)’s Town Hall Education Arts Recreational Campus (THEARC) has worked to improve the lives of children and adults living east of the Anacostia River — specifically the areas of Wards 7 and 8 — for 14 years. Not only does 40 percent of Washington D.C.’s youth reside in these two areas, but nearly half of those children live at or below the poverty line, limiting their access to vital health, cultural and educational programs. “THEARC is an amazing place for all residents of Wards 7 and 8. It offers programs, services and education in areas such as art, music, theatre and the culinary arts, as well as medical services and schools to the community,” 2019 Gala Chair Rhona Wolfe Friedman said. The 203,000 square foot campus also features an urban farm, regulation-size gymnasium, libraries, computer labs, studios for music and visual arts, public playgrounds and more. As a result of its connection with prominent partners including The Washington Ballet, The Phillips Collection and DC Central Kitchen, THEARC currently serves more than 100,000 adults and children annually, as well as delivers approximately $30 million in human services per year. This year, BBAR is partnering with the David Lynch Foundation to co-host the After Dark4THEARC

86

event benefits Junior Achievement of Greater Washington, a non-profit group providing innovative financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship K-12 programs designed to inspire and empower young people. DETAILS: The Anthem; 5:30 p.m.; black-tie; $1,000; sponsorships start at $10,000; contact Lauren Meltzer, (202) 777-4480, Lauren.Meltzer@JA.org.

EVENT CHAIRS: Jennifer Felix and Ann Addison

THE CAUSE: An evening honoring women for their community service in the Washington metropolitan area. Proceeds go toward decreasing infant mortality rates in the community and ensuring the healthy and happy lives for babies. DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner; 6:00 p.m.; black-tie; $300; contact Bevan Bello (571) 257-2300, bbello@marchofdimes.org.

6

IMAGINATION STAGE’S WINTER BALL

THE CAUSE: The event supports the multidisciplinary theatre arts organization for young people in the Washington metropolitan region. DETAILS: The Embassy of Italy; 7:00 p.m.; creative black-tie; $150; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Jessica Teaford (301) 280-1626, jteaford@imaginationstage.org.

22

FOUND IN TRANSLATION: ART & SEOUL;

THE CAUSE: The Freer|Sackler invites friends and supporters to join artists, musicians, tastemakers, and philanthropists to its second annual fundraiser. DETAILS: Freer Gallery of Art; 8:00 p.m; $150; sponsorships start at $5,00; contact fs-found@si.edu.

8

KENNEDY CENTER HONORS

23

GEORGETOWN COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER’S LOMBARDI GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Bruce Merlin Fried and

Rhona Wolfe Friedman celebration. The event will begin with the Silence the Violence benefit concert at The Anthem, headlined by Katy Perry, Norah Jones and Mavis Staples, with a gala dinner to follow at the InterContinental Washington D.C. “As a member of the Board of Directors, I am thrilled and honored to chair the 2019 Gala’” Friedman said. “Please join us on October 11th for an evening of amazing entertainment, wonderful food and many surprises.” Visit bbardc.org for more information.

Lisa Hill; Jerry and Catherine Castro; DeMaurice Smith (Honorary) THE CAUSE: Proceeds from the gala will fund world-class research and treatment programs at Georgetown Lombardi. DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Washington; 6:30 p.m.; black-tie; $750; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Sharon Courtin, (202) 687-3866, sc830@georgetown. edu.

23

NATIONAL KIDNEY FOUNDATION’S KIDNEY BALL

THE CAUSE: The event raises money for the treatment and prevention of Kidney Disease, as well as research grants. DETAILS: Washington Hilton; $500; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact Jaime Ritacco jaime.ritacco@kidney. org.

DECEMBER 2019

4

THE WASHINGTON BUSINESS HALL OF FAME GALA

EVENT CHAIR: Susan Lacz THE CAUSE: The Washington Business

8

THE WASHINGTON BALLET’S NUTCRACKER TEA PARTY

EVENT CHAIRS: Olga Jaeckel and Hanane Lemlih

THE CAUSE: Proceeds from The Nutcracker Tea Party support the education and community engagement programs of The Washington School of Ballet, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. DETAILS: The Willard Intercontinental Hotel; 11:00 a.m and 3:00 p.m.; high tea attire; $285; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Emily Magenheimer or Rebecca Soloway rsvp@ washingtonballet.org. HIGHLIGHT: The holiday tradition includes a ticket to “The Nutcracker” at Warner Theatre as well as a tea party with an array of teas, sandwiches and scones. The event will feature a “Land of Sweets” candy bar.

15

LIGHT UP THE SEASON

Hall of Fame honors outstanding business leaders and entrepreneurs who have made a significant contribution to the quality of life in Washington. The

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

DETAILS: Kennedy Center Opera House; black-tie; contact honors@ kennedy-center.org. HIGHLIGHTS: Artists to be honored in 2019: Earth, Wind & Fire, Sally Field, Linda Ronstadt, Sesame Street and Michael Tilson Thomas.

THE CAUSE: This familyfriendly holiday event hosted by the Children’s Health Board supports the mission of Children’s National and advances the health and well-being of

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

1$7,21$/ 6<03+21< 25&+(675$ 6($621 23(1,1* *$/$ SEPTEMBER

ANNE K. ALTMAN, DANIEL S. PELINO AND L. PATRICK CHAUVIN PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE REACH JOHN F KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS THE CAUSE THE PROCEEDS FROM THE GALA SUPPORT THE NSO’S EDUCATIONAL AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMS

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

87

december (continued)

National Foundation for Cancer Research

Disruptive Funding Model to Advance Innovations—A New Approach to Ending Cancer for Each and for All by Franklin C. Salisbury, Jr.

T

he National Foundation for Cancer Research funds “high risk, high reward” research with a singular focus on one absolute and immutable goal: research to cure cancer – cures for all types of cancer. Since 1973 with grass roots support of Americans NFCR has been a catalyst for the discovery of the kinds of “disruptive innovations” that are both accelerating breakthroughs in healthcare and bringing hope and promise to patients suffering with cancer. However, too many of these breakthroughs in cancer research have been met with a deafening silence, sitting inside the laboratories, not able to get to the clinics. This deafening silence must be addressed if we hope to translate these breakthroughs to patients, and that must be done where we sleep—in our communities. While the traditional focus of NFCR research funding has been to support innovative basic science cancer research at universities and research hospitals, but, unless and until we can bring these innovations into the clinic to gain FDA approval,

88

next-generation cancer therapies, diagnostics and prevention strategies will remain at the bench. We are now at the fruition point of the past several decades’ advances of genomic based research, with so many innovations waiting to go into commercialization. However, these early stage areas are extremely risky with very high fail rates. Traditional venture capitalists and large pharmaceutical companies are not willing to take the risks. We need a paradigm shift in accelerating cancer prevention, treatment and care, and that is why NFCR has launched the AIM-HI Accelerator Fund as a new model to raise and provide sustainable funding to allow these disruptive innovations to be advanced from laboratory bench to patients at their bedside, through the socalled “valley of death,” The AIMHI Accelerator Fund is a new model which harnesses the power of business leaders and philanthropists in the U.S. and worldwide by utilizing venture philanthropy and impact investments. We are creating an evergreen model of funding innovations and their commercialization. These will be measurable outcomes, and more. NFCR’s signature local event is the 39th Annual Daffodils & Diamonds Luncheon and Fashion Show, to be held March 12, 2020 at Columbia Country Club in Chevy Chase. More details at nfcr.org.

children in our community. Details: Four Seasons Washington, DC; 1 PM; festive attire; $85 (adult); $50 (child); sponsorships start at $500; contact Allison Munoz (301) 565-8424, AGMunoz@childrensnational.org.

16

Choral Arts Society of Washington’s Holiday Concert & Gala

Event Chairs: Sue and Marty Goodhart, Allison Goodhart DuShuttle and Doug DuShuttle, Amanda and Ben Popeck; German Amb. Emily Haber and Mr. Hansjörg Haber (Honorary Patrons) The Cause: This holiday-season highlight supports education programs and public outreach through music as well as Choral Arts’ world-class performances. Details: The Kennedy Center; 7:00 p.m.; black-tie; $675; sponsorships start at $8,000; contact Regina Burgher (202) 244-3669, rburgher@choralarts. org.

JANUARY 2020

9

Washington Winter Show Preview Night

The Cause: The Washington Winter Show benefits at-risk children and families through services provided by Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys, THEARC, and The Founders Board of St. John’s Community Services. Details: The Katzen Arts Center; cocktail or business attire; $1,000; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact Jonathon Willen (202) 248-7159, jon@ jonathongwillen.com.

18

Academy of United States Veterans Foundation VETTY’s

The Cause: The Academy of United States Veterans Foundation is a nonprofit organization promoting and recognizing veterans’ projects. Details: Warner Theatre; $150; contact Terumi Leon terumi@vettys.org.

FEBRUARY 2020

4

22

Chance for Life’s Poker Tournament & Taste Experience

The Cause: Proceeds support local clinical trials and research projects to end childhood cancer through Children’s National and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. Details: MGM National Harbor; Poker: 11:00 a.m. ($1,000); Taste: 6:30 p.m. ($500);Vegas cocktail attire; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Maria Booker maria@chanceforlife.net.

26

Teach for America’s ‘Leadership Changing

Lives’ Gala

Event Chairs: Carol and John Boochever; Olga and Scott Jaeckel

The Cause: The event benefits Teach For America leaders whose efforts pave the way for educational equity for all children. Details: The Ritz-Carlton; 6:30 p.m.; cocktail attire; $1,000; sponsorships start at $10,000; contact Cierra Hinton, Cierra.hinton@teachforamerica.org.

MARCH 2020

7

A Vintage Affair: A Night of Fine Wine & Food Pairings Benefiting Children’s National

Executive Director: Kathie Williams The Cause: Proceeds support The Board of Visitors of Children’s National’s Annual Grants and Major Gift Program that help doctors, nurses and staff at Children’s National develop and sustain cutting-edge research, innovations, treatments and programs to serve the children treated at this world-class institution. Details: Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium; 6:30 p.m.; cocktail attire; $400; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Kathie Williams (202) 6601428, KWilliams@boardofvisitors.com.

11

Alvin Ailey American Dance Opening Night Gala Benefit

Vital Voices Global Leadership Awards

The Cause: The awards program

The Cause: Proceeds support Ailey’s local D.C. programs, Arts In Education activities and scholarships to talented young dance students in the Washington area to attend The Ailey School in New York. Details: The Kennedy Center; 7:00

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

p.m.; black-tie; contact Ariel Metzger (888) 926-3836, ariel@metzgerevents. com.

honors women leaders standing on the frontlines of change, building and amplifying local solutions to global issues. Details: The Kennedy Center; contact MariaDavis@vitalvoices.org.

| SEPTEMBER

2019

| washingtonlife.com

+,//:22' (67$7( 086(80 *$5'(1·6 *$/$ JUNE

DONNA ROBERTS, MARK LOWHAM AND KATHRYN VIGE HICKS PHOOGRAPHED AT HILLWOOD ESTATE MUSEUM & GARDENS THE CAUSE THE EVENT SUPPORTS THE HILLWOOD MUSEUM’S ONGOING EFFORTS TO SHARE MARJORIE MERRIWEATHER POST’S CULTURAL LEGACY WITH THE PUBLIC

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

89

15

National Cancer Research Foundation’s Daffodils & Diamonds Luncheon and Fashion Show

FLICKS4CHANGE

film for good

The Cause: The National Cancer

by James Hawthorn, Festival Director, Flicks4Change

W

e invite you to do something life affirming and impactful with your Sunday. Join us for the 2nd annual D.C. Flicks4Change Film Festival. Sunday, November 10th, 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., at the Ronald Reagan Building Amphitheater, home of the Capitol Steps. Come to be inspired, Flicks4Change Co-founders James Hawthorn and Andrew Steel with award entertained, educated, and winning actor, Bruce Davison at 2018 L.A. F4C give back. Flicks4Change unites difference makers with those that want to make a difference. We screen the best socially conscious short films from around the globe and invite the nonprofit organizations tackling those issues to our event. Meet and discuss the films and issues with our filmmakers, nonprofit leaders, and other influential figures from the socially conscious realm. Learn the many ways you can get involved and be the positive change our world needs. Flicks4Change is the only film festival that brings so many leading non-profit organizations, talented filmmakers, and thought leaders together under one roof. This event only happens once a year in D.C. and is not to be missed! With Veterans Day the following day, and in partnership with VetFlicks, Flicks4Change will be giving their thanks by providing 100 free tickets to Veterans and their guests. The first film program at 2 p.m. will include both films made by Veterans, and films addressing issues they face

The event will feature: * Two 75 minute programs of socially conscious short films covering an array of issues in a variety of genres; * A town-hall style discussion between the audience, filmmakers, and non-profits about the films and how we can take action on the issues after each screening; * A performance by the legendary Leonard, Coleman, and Blunt including songs from the Temptations, Platters, and Drifters between screenings; * Interactive and engaging exhibits by our non-profit partners giving you many different opportunities to make a difference; * Light snacks and beverages available throughout the day; * Audience voting on favorite, and most impactful films, with prizes for audience members that visit all 5 - 10 of this year’s nonprofit partners. Sponsored by TCMA - World Trade Center, Washington D.C. and Ronald Reagan Building (A Drew Company). Our non-profit and socially conscious partners include: Innocents at Risk; The D.C. OCTFME; Coalition to Stop Gun Violence; CARE International; In a Perfect World; McLean Project for the Arts; Arlington Academy of Hope; Homestretch; GoodWeave; DC Boys Choir; and The Mother Earth Project. Your ticket provides access to the entire event regardless of when you arrive, but we encourage you to see as many films and exhibits as you can since this special gathering will only happen once. Get your tickets at flicks4changedc19. eventbrite.com. For sponsorship opportunities or questions, please contact James Hawthorn, james@flicks4change.org, (571) 438-4026.

90

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

Research Foundation funds “high risk, high reward” research with a singular focus on research to cure cancer. Details: Columbia Country Club; visit nfcr.org.

APRIL 2020 dATE TBA A 15h Anniversary Evening To Benefit Innocents at Risk

Event Chairs: Yasmine and Omar Askalani

The Cause: The evening benefits Innocents at Risk’s mission to combat child trafficking. Details: Location TBA; 7:00 p.m.; black-tie; $500; sponsorships start at $1,250; contact the office of Innocents at Risk (202) 625-4338 or visit innocentsatrisk.org.

4

The Orchestra of the Americas Awards Gala

Event Chairs: Carol Grefenstette Bates and David Bates

The Cause: Celebrate alongside 2020 honorees Carolina Herrera and Paquito D’Rivera the work of The Orchestra of the Americas Group, empowering exceptional rising musicians across the Western Hemisphere to transform lives and communities. Details: The Four Seasons Hotel; 6:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.; cocktail attire; tickets $450; table sponsorship starts at $10,000; contact Helen Cooney (703) 236-0010, hcooney@orchestraoftheamericas.org. Highlight: Live auction of ultraexclusive vacation homes, grammywinning musical performances, & latin dancing.

18

Dancing After Dark

Event Chairs: Rob Barcellona and Katharine Hayes The Cause: The event builds critical support for the mission of Children’s National including medical care, research and advocacy for children. Details: The Anthem and District Pier; 8 PM; cocktail attire; $150; sponsorships start at $500; contact Kaitlyn Salazar (301) 565-8560, KSalazar@ childrensnational.org.

| SEPTEMBER

2019

| washingtonlife.com

$1 (9(1,1* 72 %(1(),7 ,112&(176 $7 5,6. APRIL

OMAR AND YASMINE ASKALANI PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE ASKALANI RESIDENCE THE CAUSE THE EVENING BENEFITS INNOCENTS AT RISK’S MISSION TO COMBAT CHILD TRAFFICKING

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

91

APRIL (continued)

18

CHILDREN’S BALL

THURGOOD MARSHALL COLLEGE FUND

DEVELOPING MINDS... DELIVERING DREAMS BY CHARLES MERINOFF, CO-CHAIRMAN, BREAKTHRU BEVERAGE GROUP

T

he Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s (TMCF) 32nd Anniversary Awards Gala will honor education, industry and corporate leaders like Jeffrey Brown, CEO of Ally Financial, who have worked to advance TMCF’s mission of developing young minds attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs), for success in college, careers and life. The gala has become one of the Washington, D.C.’s largest nonpolitical, fundraising events. Proceeds not only drive the success of TMCF but also change the lives and fuel the dreams of so many students from HBCUs and PBIs through scholarships, fellowships, internships, and employment

92

opportunities. I am proud to serve as both Chairman of the TMCF board of directors and gala chair. It is the highest honor of my life to serve on the board with so many talented corporate executives who are all committed to diversity, higher education and creating meaningful opportunities for the students we represent in our 47 memberschool network. Additionally, Breakthru Beverage Group, of which I am the co-chairman, has invested more than $1.1 million in TMCF over the past 12 years, because it is an exceptional organization that delivers on its promise. Through many programs and initiatives, we are preparing a talent pipeline to the nation’s top employers and government agencies and creating pathways to the C-Suite for the next generation of global leaders. I invite you to join us as we celebrate the legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall and set our sights toward the future. This elegant black-tie affair will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2019, at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park. I encourage you to join me and invest in the lives of America’s future doctors, lawyers, innovators, teachers, and global leaders by attending this impactful gala. For more information, visit tmcf.org/gala.

Executive Committee: Amy Baier, Brigg Bunker, Marcy Cohen, Jean-Marie Fernandez, Mae Grennan, Cindy Jones, Thomas Lloyd, Carrie Marriott and Toni Verstandig THE CAUSE: The Children’s Ball builds critical support for the mission of Children’s National including medical care, research and advocacy for children. The 2020 Children’s Ball will celebrate Children’s National’s 150th Birthday. DETAILS: T The Anthem and District Pier; 6:00 p.m.; black-tie; sponsorships start at $15,000; contact Jen Fleming (301) 565-8530, JBFleming2@ childrensnational.org.

22

LOMBARDI WOMEN

EVENT CHAIRS: Janet Davis

at $1,000; contact Larkin Cohan (202) 347-3909, dreamgala@citydance.net.

5

NATIONAL MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SOCIETY’S ‘ON THE MOVE’ LUNCHEON

THE CAUSE: Proceeds support the treatment, research and other programs for patients or families affected by multiple sclerosis. DETAILS: Wardman Park Hotel; 12:00 p.m.; $150; sponsorships start at $3,000; contact Amanda Herman (202) 3755620, Amanda.herman@nmss.org. Highlight: The event will feature key note speaker Ardra Shehard, writer of the frank and funny blog “Tripping on Air” about living with MS.

8

THE WASHINGTON BALLET GALA

EVENT CHAIRS: Ashley Taylor Bronczek

and Barbara McDuffie

THE CAUSE: The event supports breast

and Sara Lange

cancer research at Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center. DETAILS: The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner; 5:30 p.m.; business attire; $500; sponsorships start at $5,000; contact Sharon Courtin, (202) 687-3866, sc830@georgetown.edu.

THE CAUSE: The evening supports

25

MAKE-A-WISH MID-ATLANTIC EVENING OF WISHES

EVENT CHAIRS: Mike and Laura Manatos THE CAUSE: Evening of Wishes benefits Make-A-Wish® Mid-Atlantic.The annual event helps the organization fulfill its mission of creating life-changing wishes for local children with critical illnesses. DETAILS: The Ritz Carlton,Washington; 6:00 p.m.; black-tie optional; $500; sponsorships starting at $5,000; contact Kelsey Yates kyates@midatlantic.wish.org.

MAY 2020

arts and education programs and productions of The Washington Ballet. This year’s gala will celebrate TWB’s Company and School’s artistic excellence; bringing the joy and artistry of dance to all eight wards in D.C. DETAILS: The Anthem; 7:00 p.m.; bold black-tie; $1,000; sponsorships start at $2,500; contact Emily Magenheimer or Rebecca Soloway rsvp@ washingtonballet.org. HIGHLIGHT: The gala theme is “The Washington Ballet Takes Center Stage.”

14

PREVENT CANCER FOUNDATION GALA

THE CAUSE: The nonprofit organization is solely dedicated to cancer prevention and early detection. DETAILS: Location TBD

JUNE 2020

2

HILLWOOD ESTATE, MUSEUM & GARDENS’ ‘ROARING TWENTIES’ GALA

EARLY MAY: CITYDANCE DREAM GALA 2020

EVENT CHAIR: Paul Wharton

EVENT CHAIRS: Kathryn Vigé Hicks,

Board Chair: Kay Kendall THE CAUSE: Proceeds support CityDance’s award-winning DREAM program- an after-school program that provides dance classes and performance opportunities; mentoring and tutoring to students from the District’s most underserved communities. DETAILS: The Lincoln Theatre; afterparty location TBD; 8:00 p.m.; creative cocktail attire; $250; sponsorships start

Mark Lowham, Donna Roberts and Shannon Stichman THE CAUSE: The event supports the Hillwood Museum’s ongoing efforts to share Marjorie Merriweather Post’s cultural legacy with the public. DETAILS: Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens; 6:30 p.m.; black-tie; $500; sponsorships start at $1,000; contact Allison Kingery (202) 243-3974, akingery@hillwoodmuseum.org.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

0(1725 ,17(51$7,21$/·6 7+ $11,9(56$5< NOVEMBER

SWEDISH AMBASSADOR KARIN OLOFSDOTTER; BULGARIAN AMBASSADOR TIHOMIR STOYTCHEV AND MONACO AMBASSADOR MAGUY MACCARIO DOYLE PHOTOGRAPHED BY NAKU MAYO AT THE MERIDIAN INTERNATIONAL CENTER THE CAUSE ALL PROCEEDS WILL BENEFIT MENTOR FOUNDATION USA EMPOWERING YOUNG PEOPLE TO LIVE HEALTHY AND PRODUCTIVE LIVES FREE OF DRUGS THE EVENT WILL ALSO CELEBRATE THE WORK OF MENTOR INTERNATIONAL AND ITS AFFILIATES AROUND THE WORLD – YEARS OF IMPACTING MORE THAN SIX MILLION YOUTH IN OVER COUNTRIES

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

93

lifestyles

SITTING PRETTY quietude in feminine, dramatic designs. Photographers: Luis aragon | www. luisaragon.com and rodney young | @rdystudios photographer’s assistant: aaron hunt stylist: stef pharr | @stefpharr MAKEUp: kat aragon using LimeLife by Alcone | @kataragon Nails: Kat Aragon using Static Nails hair: Gwynn Geohaghan Johnson | www.gobygeohaghan.com MODEL: yessy rivera | T•H•E Artist Agency editorial direction: catherine trifiletti and dara klatt PHOTOGRAPHED AT wardman tower 2660 connecticut ave. NW condos shown are on the market (priced from $2.15 million to $8.095 Million)

VINCENT LICARI COUTURE red lace gown (price by request) vincentlicari.com. Cocktail ring, and candelier earrings (stylist own)

ALEXANDER MCQEEN Black and blue deconstructed tuxedo jacket ($3,540). Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, Md. ALEXANDER MCQEEN black crystal embellished silk blouse ($2,595). Saks Fifth Avenue. ALICE & OLIVIA Black sequin pants (stylist’s own). BADGLEY MISCHKA cystal embellished pump (stylist’s own)

VINCENT LICARI COUTURE pleated blue taffeta gown ($3,900) vincentlicari.com; OSCAR DE LA RENTA rolled rhinestone choker and embellished chrystal bootie (stylist’s own).

VINCENT LICARI COUTURE blue and black ball gown ($6,500) vincentlicari. com; Cocktail ring, and chandelier earrings, (stylist’s own, from Katwalk Boutique, 1709 Aliceanna St., Baltimore, Md.).

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

| S U M M E R | washingtonlife.com

99

Left: CHIARA BONI LA PETITE ROBE Hedva black one shoulder gown ($995), Saks Fifth Avenue, 5555 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, Md. BADGLEY MISCHKA crystal embellished pump (stylist’s own). Right: ALAÏA long knit black gown ($4,730), Saks Fifth Avenue. YVES SAINT LAURENT Lou quilted leather belt bag ($995), Saks Fifth Avenue. OSCAR DE LA RENTA embellished crystal bootie (stylist’s own).

SPECIAL FEATURE | SOCCER

LET’S GET ROWDY AUDI The Buzzard Point stadium’s rocketing effect.

O

n a rare 72 degree night in the District in August under a magenta sunset, the sell-out crowd of 19,871 at Audi stadium was thundering. Nine-year-old girls gripped cotton candy in one hand and waived rainbow streamers in the other. Posters of Washington Spirit captain Andi Sullivan, with U.S. Women’s National Team stars Rose Lavelle and Mallory Pugh, handed out for free in the entrance, were brandished on the railings. The crowd did the wave. Smartphone flashlights lit up. Women’s soccer took over southwest D.C. And it was loud and glorious. Let’s be frank, it wasn’t just the 2-1 win that night, nor just the spiked interest in women’s soccer following the FIFA Women’s World Cup win in France this summer.This was Audi Field. After just one year since the ribbon was cut on the new stadium in Buzzard Point —the long-awaited home of D.C. United—soccer (both men’s and women’s) has been invigorated in the DMV. “[Audi] had a dramatic revolutionary impact on how soccer in the DMV is perceived, consumed, enjoyed … all of that ... in a way that I may have even underestimated,” says Jason Levien, the owner and CEO of D.C. United. This, from a seasoned business owner with pretty high expectations of a return. Levien took over as managing general partner of D.C. United alongside general partner Erick Thohir in 2012 and led efforts that resulted in the state-of-the-art, soccer-specific $400 million stadium that is positioned two blocks from Nationals Park. Ground was broken in February 2017 with the stadium completed just over a year later in July 2019. Since then, Levien attests that sponsorships, corporate partnerships and tickets experienced “400 or maybe 500 percent growth.” Wins on the field accompanied that increase. A year ago, D.C. United went on a winning hot-streak: a new stadium, a new striker star Wayne Rooney and a fourth place finish in MLS’s Eastern Conference.

102

Though this year has cooled—with Rooney announcing his return to England after one and a half seasons with the MLS and the team slipping into fifth place in the Conference—soccer fever persists. More urban and young professional soccer fans are swarming in with the rise of Audi stadium, according to James Lambert, president of the Screaming Eagles, a D.C. United volunteer support club whose membership has increased roughly 30 percent in the last year to its highest levels ever. He hypothesizes that the District’s soccer sporting environment mutated from “American sports 1975 to American sports 2018” in just one year following the move from RFK. And now? “You’re bringing in younger fans, certainly, but also people that are either trying it for the first time or re-trying it for the first time.” With the stadium’s vertical layout, ticket-holders trying it out get a dramatic sense of being on top of the action—whatever that happens to be. This past summer, Audi hosted the men’s Premiere Lacrosse League for three games as well as the 7th annual Congressional Soccer Match with members of Congress, Hill staff, embassy officials and both Washington Spirit and D.C. United players. This month, D.C. United has two home games, while on the 14th, Washington Spirit returns to Audi to play Reign FC, led by the nowiconic Megan Rapino. In October and November, Audi hosts the U.S. Men’s National soccer team and the Women’s National team respectively. But there’s more. In early 2020, the XFL makes its Audi debut and further discussions are even underway to bring college football games, conferences, concerts and other events to Audi. “We knew [Audi Field] would catapult the growth of soccer and the excitement around DC United and the neighborhood at Buzzard’s Point. It happened so fast,” Levien says. “It really took off like a rocket ship.”

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

AU D I F I E L D P H OTO : CO U RT E SY D.C . U NI T E D

BY DA R A K L AT T | P O R T R A I T S BY TO N Y P OW E L L

keep an eye on

JORDAN DIBIASI

CHRIS DURKIN

Position: Midfielder, Washington Spirit, #4

POSITION: Defender/Midfielder, D.C. United, #21

Age: 22

Age: 19

From: Highlands Ranch, Colo.

From: Glen Allen, Va.

In her words: “I am a technical player, a play maker, I like to make stuff happen. At the end of the day, I’m going to do anything and everything in my power to help our team win.”

In his words: “I’m a competitor and I want to win.”

Stats: A number three overall 2019 draft pick from Stanford. Started this year in 17 of 18 games played for Washington Spirit. Scored four goals. Started playing: Age 5. “Growing up, I idolized my older brother; he was playing soccer, and naturally I wanted to do that too.” Favorite move: “The Maradona” On being a rookie: “I feel really lucky to have so many influential and powerful women to lead me and show me the road.” Goals: “I want to continue to take on more of a leadership role. It’s not an overnight process, it’s going to be putting your head down, and working hard.” Coach Richie Burke’s Take: “She’s very creative. She’s got great technical ability. She’s a little bit different than everyone else because she’s crafty and certainly looks for openings offensively ... She’s a prodigious talent.”

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

| se p te m b e r

2019

| washingtonlife.com

Stats: Made his MLS debut in 2018 at age 18. Became the youngest MLS player to make over 20 regular season appearances. Scored his first MLS goal in 2019; has started seven of 13 games played. (*On injured list). Started playing: Age 3. “My dad would just put the ball in front of my foot and yell ‘goal!’” DMV roots: “I know this city so well. I know what it’s like to go to games at RFK and cheer on D.C. United in the fan section.” Success attribution: 1). Mentality 2). Work rate. “If you love what you’re doing, there’s no way to burn out.” Being a rookie: “You have to have a little bit of tough skin in the locker room as a younger guy.” Favorite move: “Double Scissors” Coach Ben Olsen’s Take: “He’s one of our most talented players that we’ve ever produced here. He is a super driven young man … He has the size, power and strength to be an elite athlete … Chris plays every game and every training session like it’s his last.”

103

WASHINGTON S O C I A L D I A R Y step afrika! galaďš? chesapeake soireeďš? by the people arts festival and more!

Nacho Figueras celebrates after the District Polo Cup. (Photo by Ann Priscilla)

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

105

OVER THE MOON

Seeing Stars and Mars Bars Jacqueline B. Mars’ sweet touch extends to supporting hounds, horses and just about everything else in hunt country. STO RY AN D P HOTOS BY VI C KY MOON

Jacqueline B. Mars has been a discerning

fixture in the horse country of Middleburg for many years, a scion of the family-owned Mars, Incorporated. The company first gained fame with candy in 1911 and has since expanded exponentially. Her late parents, Audrey and Forrest Mars Sr., owned Marland, a sprawling horse farm and estate in the heart of the countryside where many young girls have fallen in love with all things horse. (Hold that thought.) That fieldstone manor house included lavish gardens and a 60-by-20-foot swimming pool that is now owned by Beau and Dee Van Metre. Jacqueline remained in the area and now lives at Stonehall Farm near The Plains.There’s a twostory stone manor house, a heated swimming pool and a number of stables (hold that thought again). In the spirit of conservation, she placed 206 acres of the property under easement in 2017 with the Land Trust of Virginia, thus preventing any division or development. As a result of the Mars company’s success in products ranging from Snickers bars to Uncle Ben’s rice and a 50-brand line of pet food and supplies, her generous contributions to local equestrian-themed charities include backing

106

several riders on the international Three Day Event circuit. She can be spotted watching the Orange County Hounds competing at the Virginia Fox Hound Show or gathering for an early fall morning chase. Newcomers take note, no fanfare here; just a quiet, low-key and always elegant demeanor. For the highly anticipated Great Meadow International Three Day event Aug. 22-25 in The Plains, “MARS EQUESTRIAN™ was the new title sponsor. The competition included Olympic-level riders and horses in what can best be described as an equestrian triathlon. Bridgett McIntosh, an equine nutrition specialist from the area, is now the director of MARS EQUESTRIAN. She’s delighted with the Great Meadow sponsorship that is central to the company’s purpose and said “multiple levels of competition in a community-focused event, with pet-friendly activities for fans, creates the ideal intersection for Mars, Incorporated’s diverse portfolio of brands.â€? As she did at this summer’s Warrenton Pony Show, McIntosh was on hand to pass out ice cream, horse treats and more.A Meadow Market

Jacqueline Mars can be spo ed at various sporting events in the Middleburg area.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

PHOTO BY LIZ CALLAR; PHOTO BY SHANNON BRINKMAN

Will Coleman and O the Record sail over a very sturdy jump at Great Meadow. This year’s international Three Day Event competition was sponsored by MARS EQUESTRIAN.

vendor village at Great Meadow featured live entertainment, a beer garden and food truck offerings. Guests and spectators mingled at tailgates and tables at the VIP pavilion. Jacqueline Mars and many others will be returning to Great Meadow on Sept. 15 for the 2019 Polo Classic.The featured match will be the Mars Cup, Argentina vs. U.S.A., where a bevy of handsome, hard-riding players will take to the field. As co-chair of the event sponsored by the National Sporting Library & Museum as well as vice chair of the library, Mrs. Mars noted that “their expertise and charm bring an excitement on and off the field that makes the event fun and festive for everyone, old and young.� Proceeds from the polo support the library’s mission of preserving, promoting and sharing the literature, art and culture of equestrian, angling and field sports. The list of sponsors is impressive, ranging from Middleburg-based businesses including the feed store, the print shop and several real estate firms. Many local names also are on the list: David and Barbara Roux, Clarke Ohrstrom, Mimi Abel-Smith and Jacqueline Ohrstrom along with: Ethel M Chocolates, Mars Equestrian, Mars Incorporated and of course, Jacqueline B. Mars.

Maryland Blue Crabs

Mike Irving, Charlie Palmer and Mike Ellis

CHESAPEAKE BAY SOIRÉE

Guests dancing

Charlie Palmer Steak Rooftop | PHOTOS BY REY LOPEZ CRAB PICKING WITH A VIEW: Summer vibes were in full swing at Charlie Palmer Steak’s inaugural rooftop event overlooking the U.S. Capitol. The event benefiting St. Judes Research Hospital featured seasonal cuisine sourced from farms and waterways no farther than 90 miles outside of Washington. In addition to whole Maryland Blue Crabs, guests enjoyed heirloom tomato salad, corn on the cob, fried chicken and spiced peel ’n’ eat shrimp. Charlie Palmer joined executive chef Mike Ellis to pull off the family-style feast. DESSERT GIVES YOU ENERGY Lively revelers danced to a musical performance by Fat Chance after big helpings of peach cobbler.

Reed Hartley

Fat Chance

Jacques Pepin and Larbi Darouch

Kristen Hartke, Joe Yonan and Aaron Hutcherson

JEAN-LOUIS PALLADIN TRIBUTE DINNER

Michael Edwards, Kyley McGeeney, Robert Wiedmaier and Annie Boutin King

Kingbird at The Watergate Hotel | PHOTOS BY YASMIN HOLMAN

Olivier Palladin and Verveine Palladin WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

REMEMBERING A REVOLUTIONARY CHEF: In Jean-Louis Palladin’s obituary the New York Times described an “influential chef who helped liberate French cuisine in America from rigorous orthodoxy.” Forty years after his arrival at The Watergate Hotel, his renowned culinary legacy lives on as evidenced by a recent one-night-only five-course dinner anniversary celebration where legendary chef Jacques Pépin was joined in the kitchen by Kingbird’s executive chef Sébastien Giannini and former Palladin chefs Jimmy Sneed and Larbi Dahrouch. The all-star team was tasked with recreating signature dishes from Palladin’s cookbook “Jean-Louis: Cooking with the Seasons”— a summer menu including corn soup with lobster quenelles and baby lamb with chanterelles.

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

Samantha Leonard and Elysa Leonard

107

Robert Kang and Eun Yang Romie and Nicholas Stefanelli

Sarah Potts, Josh Miller and Mai Dolinh

RAMMY AWARDS Walter E. Washington Convention Center | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

Darnell Perkins, Daphne and Bill Jarvis

DELICIOUS DETAILS: A massive crowd of chefs, foodies and critics joined together under colored neon spotlights to celebrate the Restaurant of Metropolitan Washington’s 37th annual RAMMY Awards, a tradition that honors the region’s best producers and restaurants in the industry — old and new — with a focus on the categories of food, beverage and service. Erik Bruner-Yang’s Spoken English, a Japaneseinspired, community-oriented restaurant with sake selections and street style dishes from the heart of Asia was recognized as the new restaurant of the year, and barmini by José Andrés was awarded the year’s best cocktail program. EAT LOTS, PARTY HARD: After sampling bites from various stations, guests hit the dancefloor and partied to jams courtesy of DJ Neekola.

Festival guests learn Tae Kwan Do moves

Mayor Muriel Bowser

Sean Byrne leads the dance party in “Callaway’s Dance Club”

IMAGINATION STAGE’S CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL: AN ISLAND ADVENTURE Imagination Stage | PHOTOS BY HANNAH SNYDER

Jessica Boger and Dianne Lee

108

GET THE LOOT! Children wearing festive leis took in an active theater experience, “Escape From Peligro Island,” casting their vote with paddles (one side blue, one side red) on the fate of the young hero, Callaway Brown. It was Imagination Stage’s first production using a choose-your-ownadventure element and after the show, treasure maps in hand, participants trekked to their destination room of choice: Cookie Cove, Callaway’s Dance Club, Kickin’ Key, Facepaint Party Pier, Crafty Cove and Survival Shores. As parents sipped wine, one pint-sized festival-goer conquered the inside obstacle course eight times in a row as another in a pink dress worked up a sweat on the dance floor after smudging the bear claw painted on her face. Smiles accompanied the booty grab after the island adventure was completed. WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

Book Parties Abound BOOK PARTIES | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL AND BEN DROZ

Susan Solomont and Spanish Amb. Santiago Cabanas

Winston Lord and Winston Bao Lord

Jim Sciutto and Juleanna Glover

‘LOST AND FOUND IN SPAIN’

‘KISSINGER ON KISSINGER’ AND ‘THE SHADOW WAR’

BY SUSAN SOLOMONT

BY WINSTON LORD AND JIM SCIUTTO

SPANISH AMBASSADOR’S RESIDENCE

JULEANNA GLOVER AND CHRISTOPHER REITER RESIDENCE

Spain’s Ambassador Santiago Cabanas hosted a book-signing party for Susan Solomont, author of “Lost and Found in Spain,” a narrative of her discovery of the Iberian Peninsula from the unique vantage point of being the wife of Alan Solomont, a former U.S. envoy in Madrid. A spouse or partner plays a key complementary role to the ambassaddor—without the benefit of salary. Solomont recalled highlights of her richly varied experience to a packed room, including Susan Blumenthal, Meridian House Director Stuart Holliday and other former U.S. diplomats.

Literary-minded guests celebrated two important books on a mercifully pleasant summer evening, which wasn’t really all that surprising considering that the authors were notably distinguished indeed. Winston Lord’s riveting collection of interviews of Henry Kissinger captures the former secretary of state’s ideas about global leadership along with keen portrayals of world leaders. Journalist Jim Sciu o’s chilling synopsis of a new “cold war” with Russia and China details armed invasions, violated treaties, secret military buildups, hackers and viruses that few realize we are even fighting.

Richard Carter, Robert Haft, Jonita Carter and Nicole Bernard

Darryl Carter, Mary Haft and Mitchell Jackson

‘SURVIVAL MATH: NOTES ON AN ALL AMERICAN FAMILY’

Jack Davies and Kay Kendall Maureen Orth and Ginny Grenham

BY MITCHELL S JACKSON ROBERT AND MARY HAFT RESIDENCE “Survival Math” takes its name from the calculations its author Mitchell S. Jackson and his male relatives made to survive the gangs, guns, addiction, sex work and masculinity issues in the Portland, Oregon of his youth. “I went from selling drugs and geZing into altercations to calculating how to deal with a mortal threat,” he told guests at a book party in his honor hosted by designer Darryl Carter and Mary Ha at the laZer’s residence. “It maZers that we start to examine the issues of race in America and the metric of what it takes to succeed because the equation and the metric is the same,” Ha[ said of the book, which has been described “as essential as it is beautiful, as real as it is artful.”

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

Jason Reynolds, D. Watkins and Kevin Reeves

Bob Barnett, Ellen Lose and Ulla Ronberg

109

Suzanne Malveaux and C. Brian Williams

Summer Steps performed with Step Afrika! summer camp students. Alex Hill, Stacey Sampson and Ashley Johnson

STEP AFRIKA! 25TH ANNIVERSARY GALA Dock 5 at Union Market | PHOTOS BY NAKU MAYO

Taylor Osborne-Smith and Eric Singleton

DANCING INTO A QUARTER CENTURY: Howard University graduate C. Brian Williams founded the African American dance troupe in 1994 after a life-changing trip to South Africa. Now in its 25th year, the company’s next tour will take 14 full time dancers to 50- plus cities to perform step, traditional South African dance and gumboot for audiences across the globe. At the milestone anniversary celebration, supporters joined gala chair Ellio Ferguson of Destination DC and Mayor Muriel Bowser for an evening of performances and revelry.

Azam Mirza and Joy Kingsley-Ibeh

Black Panther actress and award-winning playwright Danai Gurira visits orphaned elephants in Zimbabwe as part of WildAid’s demand reduction campaign. (Photo courtesy WildAid)

John Jeppson, Wendy Benchley and WildAid CEO Peter Knights

WILDAID FUNDRAISER Andrew Mellon Auditorium | PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL WILD SUPPORT: Spreading the message that when consumers stop buying illegal wildlife trade goods, animals live, WildAid hosted a local fundraiser to spotlight its demand reduction efforts and new marine program. Hosted by Wendy Benchley, guests including Sen. Tom Udall, Didi and Walter Culter and Diana Prince heard about the campaign to raise awareness for China’s ivory ban—and WildAid’s ambitious new plan to strengthen enforcement of 250 fragile marine and costal areas within five years. “Unfortunately, the majority of ocean spaces that have been declared protected fall short of their true potential,” WildAid Marine Program Director Meaghan Brosnan said. The organization currently collaborates with local communities and governments in 54 marine sites, and has brought in actors, business and religious leaders and athletes to to raise awareness of poaching. 110

Mike Peabody and Susan Rappaport

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

Marie Ridder

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

Team International and Team Mexico take the field

Team International presented by Salamander Hotel and Team USA presented by Beverly Equestrian pose with Sheila C. Johnson and Rebekah Greenhill WL EXCLUSIVE

DISTRICT CUP POLO MATCH The National Mall PHOTOS BRADY SCOT PHOTOGRAPHY AND ANN PRISCILLA PHOTO

U. S. Park Police Horse Mounted Unit Officers

Caryn Dyson, Sylvia Johnson, Christian Barone and Virgil Miller

CHUKKERS ON THE MALL More than 500 local polo enthusiasts converged on the National Mall for the “America’s Front Yard” event featuring plenty of sun, colorful attire and of course a match with top polo players to benefit the rebuilding of the U.S. Park Police Horse Stables, a top destination for Mall visitors. Guests chatted throughout the festivities while taking in the scene, sipping wine and sampling plates from Recess Catering.

Carol Wolf, Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy III and Robert Wolf

Chip and Sally Akridge

Keyana Williams, Jesse Citizen and Roberta Scott

SANDY HOOK PROMISE CHAMPIONS GALA Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium | PHOTOS BY NAKU MAYO

Scott Stewart

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

Rep. Antonio Delgado

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

“MANY VOICES ONE PROMISE”: In the midst of an average of one mass shooting every 12.7 days this year in 2019, Sandy Hook Promise (SHP) took a positive approach to honor those working to create safer communities. With youth now at the center of the prevention movement, Kristina Alzugaray, Promise Club Youth Advisory board member for Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE), held a panel discussion with honorees Sen. Chris Coons and Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick to discuss ways that each are championing the safety of students and communities at the legislative level. “SHP has shined a light on how hard it is to be a kid today” Fitzpatrick said, noting that with all of the pressures that they face, we should move to a model where mental health services are available at schools. “No community is safe from gun violence,” said Sen. Richard Blumenthal, an honorary co-chairman, “leadership by example is the most powerful way [to show students how to be proactive in stopping school violence].”

111

Jessica Stafford Davis, Victor Ekpuk and Sheldon Scott

Tariq Darrel O’Meally

Kate Goodall, Nicole Dowd and Carol Melton

BY THE PEOPLE ARTS FESTIVAL Rania Hassan Smithsonian Arts & Industries Building | PHOTOS BY BEN DROZ

Barbara Hawthorn and David Corson

NURTURING CREATIVITY: The multi-faceted arts spectacular presented by Halcyon wowed thousands of visitors for the second year in a row with a range of exhibits, art installations, speaker programs and performances that were all free and open to the public. Halcyon’s executive director Kate Goodall hopes to make the international arts and dialogue festival Washington’s version of Austin’s SXSW or Miami’s Art Basel. Halcyon Arts Lab Fellow Tariq Darrel O’ Meally helped kick off nine-days of festivities with a riveting interpretive dance titled “Night Light: Half World.” CHANNELING THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE Curator Jessica Stafford Davis was tasked with distilling the festival’s founding themes: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Quincy Inman with the Fair Girls team

Ekaterina Flis, Lisa Fair, Heather Louise Finch and Sara Jaffe

WL EXCLUSIVE

Chris Borgal, Pamela Parsons and Bill Dunston

FAIR GIRLS VIDA HOME 5TH ANNIVERSARY The Willard InterContinental | PHOTOS BY BEN DROZ

Lesli Foster, Erin Andrews, Charles Allen, Alexandra Sényi and Christine Terrell

112

PROVIDING HOPE: Sponsors, supporters and members of Congress gathered at The Willard hotel to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the FAIR Girls’ Vida Home. Since 2014, the safe house has provided human trafficking survivors with emergency housing, basic necessities and community as well as access to specialized case management, workshops and other services. Guests enjoyed summer fare as they mingled on the rooftop patio while listening to organization updates as the sun set over the Washington Monument. Special guests included Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Rep. Chris Smith, D.C. Councilmember Mary Cheh and D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine. WA S H I N G T O N L I F E

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

PARTIES PARTIES PARTIES

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT LIVE IT, LEARN IT [KREEGER MUSEUM] P H OTO S BY TO N Y P OW E L L

Dr. Buffy and Tony Miles

Marian Wright Edelman

Diane Rehm and Bitsey Folger

Live It Learn It honored longtime board member Nancy “Bitsey” Folger with music and art at its annual benefit to support experiential learning experiences for students and teachers from District of Columbia Title I public schools. Set amid the Kreeger Museum’s noted art collection, the event featured hands-on activities designed by Live It Learn It, live jazz from the Washington Jazz Arts Institute and a drum circle lead by percussionist Susan Berning.“I am just a person who loves kids and wants each one to have opportunities in life to grow happily and with love,” Folger told guests, noting that she is a former teacher in Montgomery County’s public schools.

HOSTAGE US INAUGURAL RECEPTION [SIDLEY AUSTIN LLP] P H OTO S BY A N N E L I S E M O O R E / B O N N E M A I S O N I N C

The District-based non-profit group brought together a variety of Fortune 500 companies, stakeholders and former hostages and their families for its annual benefit. Because more than 200 Americans are taken hostage internationally each year, the organization works to provide a comprehensive education program as well as coping and relationship strategies and support for past and active hostage situations. During the event, one benefactor made the decision to match all donations up to $25,000 through the end of June.

Harold Cromartie and Liz Frank

GLEN ECHO GALA [GLEN ECHO PARK] P H OTO S BY E A P H OTO

Andrew Friedson, Sen. Chris Van Hollen, Bonnie Casper, Rep. Jamie Raskin and Chris Core

114

Hundreds of guests partied until midnight while raising more than $25,000 for the Glen Echo Park Scholarship and Transportation Fund for underserved youth in the community. A pre-dinner reception took place in the park’s famous Bumper Car Pavilion, replete with string lights and vibrant surrounding greenery. The theme, “Inspiring New Memories,” fit the scene as guests were invited to make their own memories at a portrait photo station, ride a carousel and enjoy dinner and dancing in the historic Spanish Ballroom. The gala also honored park advocate Sen. Chris Van Hollen and his legislative efforts to benefit the park.

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

| S E P T E R M B E R | washingtonlife.com

FONA DINNER UNDER THE STARS [NATIONAL ARBORETUM] P H OTO S BY N A N CY K L EC K

Stars twinkled above as more than 500 guests enjoyed a night of music, gourmet food and the beautiful candlelit scenery of the U.S. National Arboretum. During the event, Robert Bartlett was presented the Distinguished Supporter award to honor his long-time financial support and hours of service in maintaining the Arboretum’s trees. Each portion of the evening took place in a different section of the 446-acre grounds, which made for a fully-immersive experience. Guests learned about the partnership and its efforts to improve access to the Arboretum and enhance the Washington Youth Garden as a healthy green space for visitors in the city. This year was the 25th annual Dinner under the Stars.

Jennifer Hatcher and Chavonda Jacobs-Young

William Tatum and Stephanie Ferguson

PENFED ‘NIGHT OF HEROES’ GALA [MANDARIN HOTEL] P H OTO S CO U RT E SY P E N F E D

With a total of $1.6 million raised from more than 600 benefactors, the evening both inspired and spread awareness for veterans, active military members and their families. The gala had a twofold purpose, with a second goal of shining a spotlight on three resilient children of military families. Jaysha Young, a recipient of the Military Hero Award, underwent multiple deployments, two hurricanes and permanent change of station absences while serving her community and maintaining her status as a member of the National Honor Society. Her father Sgt. Major Jamall Young surprised his daughter by turning up for a heartwarming reunion. The event marked the fourth consecutive year that the gala raised more than $1 million.

Gen. John Nicholson and Gen. George Casey

JAZZ NIGHT AT THE TURKISH RESIDENCE [TURKISH AMB. RESIDENCE] P H OTO S BY CO U RT E SY T U R K I S H E M BA S SY

Turkish Ambassador Serdar Kilic hosted an “Ertegun Jazz Night” on Embassy Row to celebrate International Jazz Day and honor the legacy of the late Ahmet Ermet. The legendary music producer (and the son of pre-World War II Turkish Ambassador Munir Ertegun) used integrated jazz gatherings at the embassy to make a stand against the District of Columbia’s segregation laws of the time. The performance featured Sean Jones and His All-Stars, who played classic numbers by Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Ray Charles and Dizzy Gillespie—all of whom either played in the very same room in the 1940s and ’50s or recorded with Ertegun, the founder of Atlantic Records. Ben’s Chili Bowl co-founder Virginia Ali was spotted enjoying the concert after serving her famous chili dogs alongside Turkish cuisine.

Turkish Amb. Serdar Kilic with Sean Jones and His All-Stars

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

| S E P T E R M B E R | washingtonlife.com

115

HOME LIFE Real Estate News and Open House I Inside Homes and my washington

2ERXYGOIX MR 2SVXL[IWX

CNN journalist Dana Bash’s upper Northwest Washington home is a refuge from her busy travel schedule. BY CATHERINE TRIFILETTI PHOTOS BY TONY POWELL

HOME LIFE | INSIDE HOMES

n any given day, you might find CNN’s chief political correspondent Dana Bash visiting the U.S.-Mexico border alongside Vice President Mike Pence, as she did earlier this spring, or making one of her frequent treks across the country to spend time with her boyfriend of six p years, actor Spencer Garrett. Caught between a hectic work schedule and long distance relationship, the journalist, 48, considers her upper Northwest Washington dwelling to be a refuge. In describing being home with her eight-yearold son Jonah (from her previous marriage to CNN’s John King), she uses words like “heaven” and “oasis.” Bash was initially drawn to the property in 2007 because of its quiet suburban charm and expansive outdoor space featuring a patio and a pool.With an active, baseball-obsessed son, she has now come to appreciate the family-oriented vibe of the neighborhood and its walkability. “What I like about it is that it’s similar to how I grew up,” the New Jersey-native explains of the affable community. During our interview, as if on cue, Jonah and a neighborhood friend pop in from next door to say hello before running off to their next activity. Over the course of the last year, in what Bash calls an “organic process,” she began a gradual upgrade of the interiors using “fresh and bright” New England sensibilities to guide the undertaking. “This is my Nantucket house in Washington,” Bash quips, citing the picturesque island as one of her and Garrett’s favorite vacation spots. For her renovation efforts, she outsourced advice from friends and her trusted designer Melissa Broffman (who assisted her in the decorating process the first time around). Step one was

118

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

OPENING PAGE: Dana Bash hangs out in her newly-refreshed foyer. PREVIOUS PAGE: (clockwise from left) Three framed modern art pieces depicting Coco Chanel, James Dean and the Beatles from an art gallery in London; A lightfilled breakfast nook designed by friend Susanna Quinn. Bash likes to have her coffee and read the newspaper at the kitchen table overlooking the backyard; The Niermann Weeks chandelier was left by the previous owner. “Tordo” by Christopher Guy hangs over the living room couch. The Jacqueline Kennedy embroidered pillow is from Jonathan Adler. Of her style icon Bash says “Don’t You think everyone needs a pop of Jackie O in their house?” THIS PAGE (clockwise from top left): Bash’s family room redesign began with installing navy sisal grass cloth wall covering by Winfield Thybony and painting the wainscoting bright white for contrast. The traditional stone fireplace was modernized with black granite. Garrett painted a custom piece to play on the home’s nautical theme. Bash calls the space where she spends most of her time a “light, bright, happy room.” The painting that hangs over the fireplace is Dr. Seuss’ “New Years Eve at the Symphony.” The sectional is A Rudin; The dining room features artwork by Garrett and a complementary antique chair Bash bought in Hudson, NY. The table and chairs are from now shuddered Urban Essentials; Jonah’s artwork is displayed in the home’s front entrance; The basement has games, movie theater-style leather recliners and posters of Bash and Jonah’s favorite movies.

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

installing light-colored hardwoods from Universal Floors on the recommendation of pal and residential developer John Cecchi. “I drew inspiration from my friends who I think have great style,” she explains, gesturing toward a kitchen nook designed by Susanna Quinn and a stairway banister painted glossy jet black following a suggestion by Carolyn Gluck. Having purchased the house from an interior designer, Bash inherited a tasteful base, including floor-to-ceiling built-in shelves in the family room and a Niermann Weeks chandelier that anchors the living room. She has taken her time getting comfortable there, adding aspects of her own personality through eclectic art, feminine touches and elements of decor that hold meaning. Scattered throughout the house are gifts from friends and family, a piece of art by Jonah’s nanny Rosalba and most notably, two paintings by Garrett (who paints as a hobby) that hang in the living and dining rooms. There is also a blossoming collection of art by Jonah– Bash frames one new painting of his every year. Perhaps the most personal area of the house is Bash’s newly-designed basement. Half playroom, half movie theater, it satisfies her and Jonah’s love of film and plays. An entire wall is dedicated to signed and framed Playbills from their Broadway adventures. Another gallery display serves as a living diary of images chronicling Bash’s storied career, first as a television producer and eventually a well-known and wellliked on-air personality. She counts crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala. with Rep. John Lewis as one of her most memorable professional moments. Bash’s mother, Frances Schwartz, who lives nearby, wanders in as I ask Bash to describe her personal aesthetic. “In one sense you’re classic, but in another sense you’re willing to take risks,” Schwartz says to her daughter – a statement that seems to take on double meaning. “Is that how you are in life?” I ask. Bash pauses, then refers to a colorful piece of art by T.S. Harris that hangs in her hallway depicting a swimmer doing a back dive in mid-air. “That’s my spirit animal,” Bash says. “She’s free, to me it’s about freedom and strength ... My goal is to be that person.”

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

says

(

HOME LIFE | HOME TRENDS

JONATHAN ADLER Versailles Table Lamp in Emerald; $616.40 jonathanadler.com

SCHUMACHER Shanghai Peacock Wallpaper in Cerise;The Washington Design Center; 1099 14th St, NW

ROCHE BOBOIS Profil Aile Cushion in Blue; $165; roche-bobois.com

&) &30(

Play with vibrant hues to bring your space to life, and wow house guests. BY C AT H E R I N E T R I F I L E T T I

SCULLY & SCULLY Two-tiered End Table in Blue $1,175; scullyandsculy.com

VITRA Amoebe Highback Chair in Dark Yellow: $3,070; vitra.com/en-us LIGNE ROSET Togo by Michel Ducaroy Sofa without Arms in Waterborn Amethyste $6,080; Ligne Roset, 2201 Wisconsin Ave. NW

MISSONI HOME Coomba Cylinder Pouf; $580; Missoni.com/us

LELE SADOUGHI Striped Table $895; lelesadoughi.com

BACCARAT Limited and Numbered Edition Large Panther in Midnight Crystal; $47,500; us.baccarat.com 122

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

HOME LIFE | REAL ESTATE NEWS

Historic Transfers

New owners move into the George Wallace William Hanger House on Embassy Row and the Johnson House in Dupont Circle. BY STAC E Y G R A Z I E R P FA R R

Watauga Properties sold the George Wallace William Hanger House on Embassy Row for $5.25 million to Charles Rivkin and his wife Susan Tolson. Rivkin, a former assistant secretary of state and ambassador to France, is president of the Motion Picture of America Association. The sale is the highest on Massachusetts Avenue NW to date. Hanger was a mediator for the Federal Board of Mediation and Conciliation and held other positions for government agencies involved in the resolution of labor disputes from 1913 to the late ’20s.

MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE NW, built in 1908 on the prestigious stretch, was meticulously restored to include designer finishes on all five levels of the 6,700-square-foot brick townhouse. An elevator services all floors and there is an attached heated garage with a heated driveway. The residence boasts generous entertaining spaces, opulent millwork and significant lighting upgrades. Washington Fine Properties’ Kimberly Casey and Daryl Judy were the listing agents; Washington Fine Properties’ Nancy Itteilag represented the buyer.

THE DISTRICT A quintessential brick Georgetown row house at P STREET NW, rented to Richard Nixon’s Secretary of State Henry Kissinger in the 1970s, sold for $4.8 million to an undisclosed buyer. In a hushed transaction, a private trust parted with the residence Kissinger rented for $2,500 per month (and also incidentally in which he had installed bullet-proof glass over the front windows). More recently, the East Village Federal was renovated from top to bottom to include formal entertaining rooms, an open kitchen with a family room a private patio and a back

124

years to restore it. Built in 1910 for President Martin Van Buren’s niece, Anne, the Italian Baroque-style limestone dwelling features a grand entrance hall with a three-story staircase featuring an original wrought iron A historic Dupont Circle mansion, The Anne balustrade overlaid with gold leaf, six marble Thorneburne Johnson House at NEW and limestone firepaces and an elegant French HAMPSHIRE AVENUE NW, fetched $3.275 Renaissance-style library with beamed ceilings million in July when the estate of former and mahogany bookcases. The six-bedroom, owner Beverly Losch sold the property to an one-of-a-kind property also hides a secret undisclosed buyer. The late Mrs. Losch and staircase from the basement leading to the front her husband, prominent Washington attorney hall. Compass’ Meredith Margolis and Jennifer Bob Losch, purchased the Clarke Waggaman- Touchette listed the property. Mark McFadden, designed property in 1978 and worked many also of Compass, represented the buyer. garden. Washington Fine Properties’ James Peva and Nancy Taylor Bubes were the listing agents while Ethan Drath of Washington Fine Properties was the buyer’s agent.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

MARYLAND Sarah Henn and Paul Shin purchased A STREET SE in Capitol Hill, a brick, 1908-built residence for $3.399 million. The iconic 6,500-squarefoot, recently-remodeled house boasts a luxe chef’s kitchen with a large pantry, a palatial master bedroom suite with a walk-in steam shower and an English basement rental unit with a private entrance. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage’s Gary Jankowski and Michael Schaeffer listed the property. Linda Pettie, also of Coldwell Banker, was the buyer’s agent.

The former home of famed tennis player and coach Albert “Allie� Ritzenberg sold for $3,800,625. MACARTHUR BOULEVARD NW is a 1953 Deigert and Yerkes-designed mid-century modern abode on one acre of parklike land perched above Little Falls on the Potomac River. It’s the first time in over 40 years that the unique Bethesda property, dubbed “The Hill,� has been offered for sale. Washington Fine Properties’ Kara Sheehan was the listing agent while RE/MAX Realty Group’s Douglas Crowley was the buyer’s agent.

Jeanne Langdon sold LOWELL STREET NW to Geoffrey and Kathryn Jones. Mr. Jones

is CFO of Monarch Global Strategies, a Districtbased government consulting firm. The fivebedroom Colonial in Kent was built in 1937 and retains its perfect mix of original charm and character as well as modern updates.Washington Fine Properties’ Susan Maguire was the listing agent. Nancy Taylor Bubes also of Washington Fine Properties, was the buyers’ agent. A private trust sold DUMBARTON STREET NW to Sophie and Val Hawkins for $9.125 million.The four-bedroom property known as The Henry Foxhall House is an outstanding example of late Federal period architecture transitioned to early classical revival style. The gardens were designed by Rose Greely, the first licensed female landscape architect in the District. Though the property was not Foxhall’s actual residence, the former mayor of Georgetown and munitions manufacturer built it when his daughter, Mary Ann, married Samual McKenney. Gerald Rafshoon, former communications director for President Jimmy Carter, and the late Gilbert and Lucia Greenway are among the previous owners. Washington Fine Properties’ James Peva and Ellen Morrell were the listing agents. Nancy Taylor Bubes of Washington Fine Properties represented the buyers.

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

VIRGINIA The former residence of Lois Bean and her late husband, Coleman Bean at INNSBRUCK AVENUE in Great Falls sold for $3.742 million to an undisclosed buyer. The stone estate on five private acres with lush gardens, a pool, expansive lawns and a circular driveway was built in 1998. The Colonial residence boasts over 12,000 square feet of elegant living space including a chef’s kitchen, an upper level master suite with an adjacent sitting room and a fireplace, a tranquil sun room and a walk-out lower level with recreation and billiard rooms. Washington Fine Properties’ Piper Gioia represented both sides in the transaction.

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

125

HOME LIFE | REAL ESTATE NEWS

PROPERTY LINES

MEDITERRANEAN DREAM HOUSE: Jose and Maria Villarreal are selling

TH STREET NW for $4.895 million. The couple bought the house from Niagara Power & Light heir Henry Flood Schoellkopf after the 1925 stucco mansion in the Observatory Circle neighborhood hadn’t been on the market for more than 50 years. The sunny and iconic stucco property includes over 7,000 square feet of recently renovated living space featuring five bedrooms, a finished lower level with a gym and an au pair suite with a second kitchen, and a yard with a heated pavilion, a flagstone patio and a twocar garage. Daniel Corr of Washington Fine Properties is the buyer’s agent.

WEST VILLAGE GRANDE DAME: Georgetown’s posh O STREET NW is on the market with a price tag of $8.5 million. A private LLC is selling the 19th century five-bedroom brick residence in the West Village with a chef’s kitchen, four fireplaces, a private garden, pool and six parking spaces. Features include 11-foot ceilings, ornate millwork, four fireplaces and original floors that add to the unique nature of this classic beauty. The listing agent is Mark McFadden of Compass.

CLASSIC KALORAMA: Attorneys Jennifer and Viet Dinh are selling

TRACY PLACE NW for $4.45 million. Mr. Dinh served as assistant attorney general of the United States under President George W. Bush and was the chief architect of the U.S.A. Patriot Act. The beautifully renovated, six-bedroom 1927 Neo-Georgian residence in Kalorama boasts stunning archways, elegant moldings and original wood floors and details throughout. It boasts generous entertaining rooms, a large gourmet kitchen adjoining the family room, an elevator to all four levels and a well-manicured garden. TTR Sotheby’s International Realty’s Michael Rankin is the listing agent.

126

A BROWNSTONE BECKONS: Jame Chellis is selling Q STREET NW for $3.295 million. Former owners of the grand, 1880-built one-of-a-kind property include former Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation CEO Patricia Stonesifer and journalist and political commentator Michael Kinsley. The 19th century Victorian was the site of an art gallery for 30 years and was renovated by renowned designer and former owner Lori Graham to include four fireplaces, a wine cellar, a catering kitchen, a sprawling top floor master suite that includes a living area with 22-foot ceilings and a midnight kitchen as well as spectacular roof deck with an outdoor shower. Tyler Garrison of TTR Sotheby’s is the listing agent. Send real estate news to Stacey Grazier Pfarr at editorial@washingtonlife.com.

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

HOME LIFE | OPEN HOUSE

Open House Grandiose Living around the DMV

FOREST HILLS

LINNEAN AVENUE{ NW{ WASHINGTON{ DC

ASKING PRICE: $4,495,000 LISTING AGENT: Cynthia Howar and Margot Wilson, 202-297-6000, Washington Fine Properties

Next to the woodland grounds of the Hillwood Museum is this half-acre Forest Hills contemporary that features over 10,500 square feet of bright and airy living space. The residence includes seven bedrooms, seven full baths and two half baths, including a great room with 22-foot ceilings, a new Bolthaup kitchen and family room and a luxe master suite. Additionally, there is a second floor sport court, a main level guest suite and a two-car garage and mudroom.

KALORAMA CONNECTICUT AVENUE NW ` { WASHINGTON{ D C Designed by architect Robert Gurney and the subject of a recent renovation, this co-op features ornate finishes, extensive builtin storage and custom woodwork throughout. The full-service building includes a 24-hour desk, a gym, a doorman and a roof deck with monument views.

ASKING PRICE: $2,795,000 LISTING AGENTS: Christopher Burns, 301467-8385, TTR Sotheby’s International Realty

POTOMAC FALLS

BELMART ROAD

ASKING PRICE: $3,599,000

Set on two-acres, the outdoors LISTING AGENT: seamlessly blends into the elegant Brad Rozansky 301-907-7600, fabric of this residence. Located in Brad@rozansky.com, a serene area with tree canopies Long & Foster | Christie’s and winding streets, this grand estate features 14,000 square feet of living space, including eight bedrooms, seven full baths and three half baths. It also boast a spacious outdoor patio and an outdoor kitchen along with an updated pool.

128

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

MY WASHINGTON VIRGINIA ALI Owner, Ben’s Chili Bowl BY C AT H E R I N E T R I F I L E T T I PORTRAIT BY TONY POWELL

A

One reason I appreciate the African American History Museum is because people are learning more about the culture and learning more about what it’s like to be here and be a human.

Lee’s Flower Shop on U Street NW is run by a fourth generation family Ali knows well. It has withstood a gentrifying neighborhood alongside Ben’s.

130

Room & Board hosts a fundraiser for Ali’s close friend of the Thomas and Birdie C. Smith Foundation, which raises funds to help inner city kids.

Ali used to eat one of Ben’s famous chili dogs everyday.

you don’t adjust well. That’s where my children come in.

>>

WASHINGTON AND THE U STREET CORRIDOR IN PARTICULAR HAVE BEEN THROUGH A LOT OF TURMOIL. HOW DID YOU SURVIVE THE RIOTS, THE CRACK EPIDEMIC, THE DISTRICT’S STINT AS THE “MURDER CAPITAL OF AMERICA” AND METRO BEING BUILT? We just did what we always do—–treat everybody with the same kind of friendly warmth and welcoming attitude. After they built the subway, there were only three businesses that survived. We had one employee. They dug up the whole street 65 feet down. I had the contractor put up metal signs saying “This way to Ben’s.” The squeaky wheel gets the oil.

HOW DO YOU THINK BEN’S HAS BEEN ABLE TO MAINTAIN SUCH SUCCESS AFTER ALL THESE YEARS? Number one, the chili dogs and half smokes are delicious. Number two, we’ve tried to always provide an atmosphere of home and family. My greatest enjoyment is meeting people from all walks of life and I’ve done that. From presidents to bums and everything in between. HOW DOES A BUSINESS LIKE BEN’S HAVE TO ADJUST TO CHANGING TIMES? Well, at my age

IS THERE STILL A SENSE OF COMMUNITY TO THIS DAY? We only have young, educated people moving in the neighborhood and I’m so fascinated when I’m out here on a Friday or Saturday night after midnight. It’s like Broadway. It’s so wonderful to see. I’m going to be 86 in December and I hope I live long enough to see what these very bright, young people do with this.

“

MY TOP SPOTS

s Ben’s Chili Bowl celebrates 61 years as one of Washington’s most cherished landmarks, owner Virginia Ali reminisces about the golden era of the U Street corridor. When she first opened the restaurant with her late husband Ben in 1958 the African American neighborhood was called “Black Broadway” and was full of pride, she says. Through the area’s upsand-downs, Ben’s remained a constant in the community, even staying open during the riots. If it’s any testament to the solid foundation Ali, now 85, helped build, her three sons all have a hand in operations and the staff calls her “Mom.” Look no further than the dozens of photos lining the walls to see the luminaries (George W. Bush, Barack Obama, et al.) who have saddled up to the counter for a famous chili dog. In June Ali received the Duke Ziebert Capital Achievement Award from the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington for her contributions to D.C.’s dining landscape. Now, when Ali walks through the doors of Ben’s she doesn’t make it but a few feet without being stopped by patrons and friends. Whether she admits it or not, Ben’s has come to represent something bigger—a gathering place that epitomizes community.

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO ORDER? I like the beef hot dog with mustard, onions and chili. I was eating one every day for I don’t know how many years. Sometimes I could barely wait until lunch time, but that ended when I was about 65. I went for a checkup and they said “your cholesterol is too high you’re going to have a stroke.” I went home and decided to try it a new way. I began walking every day for 30 minutes. My cholesterol lowered without me having to take any medication. I grew up on a farm and my father would always say “treat the body right and the body takes care of itself.”

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

| S E P T E M B E R | washingtonlife.com

Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.