A Pen for Presidents' Day
Montblanc releases an Artisan Edition Pen in honor of Andrew Jackson.
February 20, 2012
Famed writing instrument purveyor Montblanc is celebrating Presidents’ Day with the release of its Andrew Jackson Artisan Edition Pen ($33,300). Symbolizing the number of states in the union, only 50 of the limited-edition pens have been produced. Encased in an intricate solid white gold skeleton net overlay, the pen nods to Jackson with an engraving of his signature and dates important to his legislative period. The clip is imprinted with his portrait and includes a sapphire, which references his blue eyes. Black elements on the cone, cap, and middle ring are a tribute to his celebrated military career.
Previous presidential editions released by Montblanc include George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. As in all the pieces belonging to this unique series, AMERICAN’S SIGNATURES FOR FREEDOM is engraved on each handcrafted 18-karat gold nib and showcases 13 stars to commemorate the States that adopted The Declaration of Independence. Available today, Tyson’s Galleria, 2001 International Dr., McLean, VA, 703-734-5101
Heart to Heart
The American Heart Association battles heart disease and celebrates those who beat it.
February 15, 2012
The American Heart Association brings its black-tie Heart Ball to the District to celebrate triumphs against heart disease. With a cocktail reception, a silent and live auction, dinner and dancing to Retrospect, honor this year’s three Heart Heroes: two members of the U.S. Air Force and a cardiac surgeon who founded the Living Heart Foundation. The latter, which debuted mobile cardiovascular screening, is fundamental in helping diagnose emergency workers at Ground Zero. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, 1700 Tyson’s Boulevard
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM JOHNSON PHTOGRAPHY/WWW.PICTURESTORYSTUDIO.COM
Call to Cause: Eric Allen
Eric Allen's work for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has earned him the title of "Man of the Year."
February 07, 2012
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| "Man of the Year" Eric Allen with "Girl of the Year" Molly Farrell |
Ever since being diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) at 19 years old, Eric Allen has been determined to fight for his life—and the cause.
As a motivator, leader and 12-year-survivor, Allen is the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s “Man of the Year.”
In 2011, Allen raised over $170,000 alone in hopes to find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma. Collectively, the candidates that participated in the competition, including “Woman of the Year” Becca Willcox, raised over a million dollars—a record-breaking amount for the chapter.
Allen first got involved with the LLS when his mother was on the board of the Leukemia Ball and selling tickets for the event. Flash forward years later, and the annual Greater Washington event has grown to host more than 2,000 guests.
“I always look forward to seeing local area businesses, friends of LLS, survivors, those who are dealing with it now, and those who continue to push for a cure,” Allen says.
On March 31st, Washingtonians will gather downtown to help raise funds and awareness at the annual Leukemia Ball, this year co-chaired by Robin Lineberger and James H. Davis, Ph.D. This year’s event is expected to raise over $3 million for the nonprofit.
Allen strongly recommends anyone to get involved philanthropically in the city. “The big misconception about volunteering is that you have to have gone through cancer to give back,” Allen says. “My advice is to pick a cause you’re passionate about and get involved. Whether or not you’ve been affected by the disease doesn’t matter.”
Estate Sale!
We look back at Washington's top 5 most expensive homes sold in 2011
January 03, 2012
The Evermay Estate
The Evermay Estate
This record setting sale of 1623 28th Street NW represents the most expensive transaction of the year, and, at $22 million, the second highest sale on record in Washington, DC. Long and Foster’s Jeanne Livingston was the listing agent, while Mark McFadden of Washington Fine Properties brought the buyer.
Halcyon House
This famed federal period colonial, perched at Prospect Street and 34th Street NW, finally found it’s buyer in the Fall of 2011. At the time of sale the property was priced at $12.5 million, and rumors say the actual sales price is close to that figure. Mark McFadden of Washington Fine Properties represented the seller and found the buyer.
2860 Woodland Drive NW
The third quarter of 2011 was an exciting time in the upper bracket arena of high-end real estate, especially with the settlement of this Massachusetts Avenue Heights manor at $7.7 million. Tom Daley of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty was the listing agent, while Patrick Chauvin of Washington Fine Properties brought the buyer.
1700 Wisconsin Avenue NW
This property, built in circa 1957, sold in June for $7 million. Matthew McCormick of Washington Fine Properties represented the purchaser.
3327 P Street NW
This renovation of an 1820s Georgetown row-house sold in April for $6.75 million. Heidi Hatfield of Washington Fine Properties was the listing agent, while Sarah Gorman of Sarah Gorman, Inc. brought the buyer.
DATA PROVIDED BY METROPOLITAN REGIONAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS (MRIS)
Call to Cause: Lindsey Mask
Ladies DC helps working women come together.
January 03, 2012
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| Lindsey Mask |
Following the motto “women helping women,” Lindsey Mask and a small group of Washingtonians gathered outside of work to form the women’s organization, and now founding chapter of Ladies America, Ladies DC.
Mask, founder and CEO of Ladies DC, created the organization in 2006, aiming to connect professional women and, as she explains, “combat the old theory that women don’t or can’t work well together.”
LDC has grown to a network of more than 1,300 professionals in the metropolitan area, and has expanded to many cities across the country.
Hosting several events throughout the year, Mask says LDC prides itself on true networking and giving back to the community through charitable happenings, support of the arts, music, military, and entrepreneurship. “Nearly half of our events have a charitable component,” Mask says. “We’re not a volunteer organization, but draw the important distinction that we are ‘professional women that want to give back.’” LDC has supported many organizations, including Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Shoot for Change, Becky’s Fund, and FairFund.
On January 19, LDC will gather with P3 Solutions for the Launch Entrepreneurship networking event, which will provide access to resources for women in business, technology, and beyond.
“The feedback from members of our network blows us away and keeps us driven and dedicated to offering these opportunities to women,” Mask explains. She hopes LDC can “help remove some of the confidence barriers women have had in pushing forward in their careers.”
A Beautiful Alberto Parada Necklace
Diamonds are a girl's best friends.
December 06, 2011
For the woman who owns everything, consider a truly unique piece of jewelry made of sustainable metals and ethically mined gems. Self-taught jewelry designer Alberto Parada takes influences from his native Uruguay to create classic, streamlined pieces for everyday and evening wear. This stunning 18k white gold necklace with .26-carat diamond pavé is simply gorgeous.
The Ociana Holiday Gift Box
A stylish way to show your love during the holidays.
December 06, 2011
Arrive at your holiday parties bearing a stylish little something like the holiday gift boxes from The Ociana Group. A beautiful bouquet with your choice of red or white roses, this arrangement is the perfect token of affection. Give the grand box ($95) or the petite version ($60). 202-269-5634
Call to Cause: Luke's Wings with Lindsay Kin
Luke's Wings allows military families to stay close to their loved ones during the holidays.
December 06, 2011
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| Lindsay Kin |
After an encounter at Walter Reed in 2008 with a struggling soldier named Luke Shirley, Luke’s Wings co-founders Sarah Wingfield and Fletcher Gill took off with an aim to bring families together to heal by covering the cost of domestic flights to military hospitals across the country. Two years later, Lindsay Kin, now executive director of business development at the charity, helped Gill file a grant from the state of Texas for the initiative, which they won in 2011, and she has been involved with the cause ever since.
“What may seem so small or ordinary—a simple plane ticket—means the world to our military families,” said Kin. “Most of the calls we receive have a level of anxiety and panic and it never ceases to amaze us how the simple action of saying ‘Yes’ to a flight request alleviates so much burden, both financial and emotional.”
Luke’s Wings hopes to raise $100,000 in order to cover tickets for 32,000 wounded American soldiers for its first annual No Soldier Spends Christmas Alone campaign.
“Seeing how much the DC community rallies around this cause and our families is humbling,” Kin said. “Every event we throw, every conversation I have, I see the support from Washingtonians and we cannot continue this mission without them!”
David Yurman's New Maritime Collection
A new line by David Yurman recalls the glory days of nautical wonders like Alexandria’s historic seaport.
December 06, 2011
Maritime knot cuff links, David Yurman ($650–$1,700)
True enthusiasts of sailboat craftsmanship need look no further than Virginia’s own Alexandria Seaport Foundation. It is because of institutions like this that boating culture and old-world sailboats still inspire today’s artisans, from painters to jewelers. This fall David Yurman and his son Evan embrace these elements in their new Maritime Collection. Incorporating knots and ropes into this men’s jewelry collection, the Yurmans have imbued each piece with a meticulously crafted nautical bent. “I have always respected the craftsmanship of old sailing vessels and the traditional tools and instruments used in boating culture—particularly ropes and knots, which you can see in the Knot pieces,” says Evan. True sailors will appreciate those different types of knots featured in the line’s cuff links, including the standard square knot, made from silver and gold “ropes.” The marine theme continues with military-style dog-tag necklaces engraved with the image of the North Star, the brightest star in the sky—and a seaman’s most reliable compass. David Yurman, Tysons Galleria, 703-245-3515
Holiday Gifts That Will Make You Swoon
Our top holiday gift ideas for the season.
December 06, 2011
1. Kimpton’s Lorien Spa 24kt Gold Facial (80 minutes, $200): This exfoliating facial uses a gold ion formula to penetrate and moisturize skin, a deep treatment serum, and a coating of gold emulsion to help fight wrinkles and free radicals. 1600 King St. Alexandria, 703-894-3434
2. Thomas Pink Stags Head Cufflinks ($195): What more could your man ask for with just a pair of elegant cufflinks that will translate from business to black-tie. 1127 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-223-5390
3. R. Nichols Holiday Cards ($22 for a box of 10): For friends near and far, nothing says happy holidays like one-of-a-kind R. Nichols limited-edition holiday cards. Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie; Ginger Boutique, 7114 Bethesda Lane, 301-664-9242
4. Room & Board Nebula Grande Bowl by Tony Wurman ($220): Handmade in the studio of Tony Wurman, this is the perfect home décor gift. 1840 14th St. NW, 202-729-8300
5. Rebecca Minkoff's iPad case ($195), python-print computer case ($125), and cheetah-print iPhone case ($48) are super chic. Saks Fifth Avenue, Tysons Galleria, 703-269-1000
Fashion Film: Gatsby GlamourPhotographer Bell Soto captures the romp and circumstance of the 1920s for the spring 2012 issue of Capitol File.
