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Georgetown Honors Gunther Stern On 25 Years of Work For The Homeless

A crowd of Georgetown's most charitable tonight gathered in a pretty garden to honor Gunther Stern for 25 years of service to the Georgetown Ministry Center as its Executive Director. He was praised for dedicating his professional career "to rebuilding and empowering the lives of people who are homeless," and for his "immense commitment, passion, and experience." Ward 2 City Council Member Jack Evans lauded Stern in off-the-cuff remarks, and then read an account of his accomplishments  before he presented him with a gold statue that looked quite like the Oscar. Not bad. "Best performance by a citizen looking out for those who have less or nothing." 

"Under Gunther's remarkable leadership, GMC has grown from a small outreach center to a warm and welcoming clubhouse that provides people with a sense of respect and community," said the program. "His work doesn't stop there. Gunther has used his expertise and passion to advocate for those without a voice." He graduated from George Washington University and the University of Maryland. 

When Gunther spoke he was gracious and humble and told stories about the people who inspire him: the individuals he helps. Its work that is never done. He received a lot of warm applause. 

Also speaking at the party, hosted by Ellen Charles in her home and garden, were Georgetown Ministry Center board president Patricia Davies and benefit committee member Outerbridge Horsey. They gave flowers to Ellen to thank her for donating her home and also to the event's co-chairs, Jocelyn Dyer and Page Evans (in the photo just above). Everyone seemed to be enjoying the catering -- including crab cakes, spiced shrimp, ham biscuits -- from Broad Branch Market.

The weather was gorgeous. But in embracing the balmy air it was a reminder that it won't be this pleasant for long. When the winter comes with its brutal cold and biting winds, think of the people who have no home to go to and keep warm. That's when you go to this website, Georgetown Ministry Center, to see how you can help Gunther. Bookmark it!

 

The Ladies Who Lunch, on New York Social Diary Today

It was something out of the Smithsonian, an actual ladies luncheon, but it was also a pleasure and one of the topics of this week's New York Social Diary from Washington. 

A Day In the Country (Rappahannock VA Edition)

It was a perfect day to spend in Rappahannock County, Virginia, and that's exactly what I did, doing a morning/afternoon getaway with my pal Myra Moffett, who used to live across the way from us in "Little" Washington (the county seat). Stopped by a friend's farm to walk the hills and fields and snap some pics, including of our host in hiding under a mask. Also made a pit stop at the great Red Truck Bakery to pick up a pumpkin pie, which makes for the best breakfast. Pie for breakfast; try it sometime. 

Daniel Boulud Opens His First Washington Restaurant: DBGBDC

It was a family occasion for chef Daniel Boulud on Friday night when he opened his first Washington restaurant -- DBGBDC at CityCenter. Above he is with his daughter, Alix, new son Julien and wife Katherine. They hosted a packed party at the restaurant, which opens to the public today.

Below are some other pics from the party: the food, with a reflection of the room; Daniel with Patrick O'Connell, Alix (who just moved to Washington) with friends, and Daniel again with a fan, the famous burgers, the view from H Street. Also, the two of us. Daniel and I -- and earlier, Howard -- have been friends for 30 years. He's been very thoughtful toward Spencer and me. Check out the restaurant.

The Luxuries (& Fun & Food) Of The Summer Getaway

I had it all in the last week -- a rural getaway to Clarke County, VA and an urban getaway to NYC -- and gloat about both experiences today on New York Social Diary. Friends, fun, food and not having to make the bed.

The Virginia part was to spend time with jewelry designer Elizabeth Locke and her husband John Staelin, and the New York part was to spend time with David Patrick Columbia and Jeff Hirsch of NYSD and Daniel Boulud and Evyn Block of the Boulud "empire." I take you with me.

Lunch Today at Leopold's Kafe With Anthony Lanier

WITH ANTHONY LANIER; I LOVE THIS MAN

It was a lovely late and long lunch today with Anthony Lanier at Leopold's Kafe. I consider him one of my dearest friends in Georgetown, which means in my world. We met when I first inherited Nathans and he has given me good advice and counsel since. I always enjoy time spent with him and his wife, Isabel. We had much to discuss, but of course it's all private. Though, that said, we did remember our beloved mutual friend Henry von Eichel, who died in August 2012, about a century too soon. I miss Henry so much, I told Anthony. When I'm feeling lonely I go press my hand against the wall of Henry's Georgetown home. Like Henry, Anthony snaps me out of my pity parties. 

Here's what else I can tell you about lunch: the Weiner Schnitzel at Leopold's is awesome. Always has been. Still is. Takes me back to my childhood in Germany, where my diet was Schnitzel and Gummy Bears. Leopold's had some very delicious Florentine and salted chocolate cookies, too. When I arrived I sighed to Anthony, "so happy to be in Europe for a little while."

Christmas In New Orleans: A Scrapbook

We arrived in New Orleans on the Saturday evening  before Christmas,  in time for the annual festive and boisterous "Holiday Sing-Along" produced by our friends Judith Owen and Harry Shearer and performed at the Ogden Museum by them and their merry band of NoLa-based musicians. The irresistible cast included Leah Chase, Evan Christopher, Phil DeGruy, Matt Lemmler, Phillip Manuel, Tom McDermott, Matt Perrine, The Pfister Sisters and David Torkanowsky. Google every one of them. It's a privilege and delight to be able to go backstage with them, get to know them, to hear their stories. Spencer could have talked about life with Leah Chase all through the night. But the show had to begin. If I had to be stranded on a tropical island with someone, please make it Phil DeGruy. Not sure whether he can hunt or fish, but  a rescue team would hear me roaring with laughter at the genius, loopy and politically heat-seeking humor that comes from his mind. I'm confident he'd fashion some sticks and vines into a guitarp. (For now, we need him to croon from the Speaker's chair in the House chamber).THE CAST OF HARRY AND JUDITH'S "HOLIDARY SING-ALONG"

AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION IS ESSENTIAL, ESPECIALLY WITH "THE 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS." HERE, THE GOLDEN RINGS.THE SING ALONG, UNDERWAY

The "Holiday Sing-Along" is performed each year in London, LA, Chicago, New York and New Orleans. So, if you live in any of those cities, be there next year.

Saturday rolled into Sunday and then Monday and on into Christmas Eve and Christmas. We were part of a holiday house party that included friends of Harry and Judith's from New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. Tim and Steve and Helen from New York. Dan from Chicago. Lee, Maureen, CJ and Toni from L.A. All of them talented and successful in different fields. We took most of our meals together, though Spencer and I slipped away for a ritual Mother-Son lunch at Galatoire's - one of the world's great restaurants, particularly at Christmas.

GALATOIRE'S AT LUNCH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22

THIS IS GALATOIRE'S NEXT DOOR BAR, #33, AND SAINTS FANS WATCHING A LAST SECONDS LOSS
A GALATOIRE'S TABLE AFTER A FESTIVE CHRISTMAS LUNCH. IT'S ALWAYS A PARTY IN NOLA.
SPENCER, PIZZA AND BEER AT DOMENICA

COMPOSER AND ARRANGER CJ VANSTON DOING WHAT HE DOES SO WELL

ALL OF US AT CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT AUGUST

LEE AND MAUREEN SKLAR AT CHRISTMAS DINNER

JUDITH, TIM, STEVE AND HELEN AT CHRISTMAS DINNER AT THE WINDSOR COURT HOTEL
TONI AND CJ VANSTON AT CAFE AMELIE ON BOXING DAY
LEE, JUDITH AND ME (CHANNELING A NEW ORLEANS FRIEND)

When not gathering together, listening to (and the others playing) music, eating, shopping, touring or opening presents I wandered the Mississippi waterfront or the streets of the French Quarter. 

THE NATCHEZ
THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI
IN N.O., THEY LANDSCAPE THE CAR TRACKS
A VISIT TO THE NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART. HERE, THE SCULPTURE GARDEN
CROISSANT D'OR, ON URSULINES; A FAVORITE PLACE FOR CAFE AU LAIT
ONE VIEW OF THE INTIMATE CONDO COMPLEX WHERE WE BUNKED
BOURBON STREET ON CHRISTMAS MORNING. NO KIDDING.


ALSO CHRISTMAS MORNING

ALL OF US AFTER CHRISTMAS DINNER
AS AT THE TOP OF THIS POST, ANOTHER SHOT OF HIMSELF

New Year's Eve With The Homies At Le Dip

DISCUSSING WITH SAM HARRINGTON WHAT WE ALWAYS DISCUSS: HEALTH CARE

It was gorgeous at Le Diplomate tonight for New Year's Eve. Wish I'd shot a few more snaps, especially of the abundance of blue and gold helium-filled balloons, but here's what I've got of our table of neighborhood pals: Sam and Debbie Harrington and Ellen Charles.

CAROL, ELLEN, DEBBIE AND SAM

We are good friends and live only a few doors form each other. Arrived at 14th and Q at  7:30, home by 10:30, putting on the socks and the PJ's and ready to tuck in under the covers and surf the NYE  web and TV action. Happy New Year, y'all. 

HOW THE MEAL STARTED: A CLASSIC PRESENTATION OF CAVIAR W/ BLINIS, ETC

Sam and Debbie, btw, write an adult "gap year blog" which I recommend for anyone who is a doctor, lawyer, pilot, or over 35, feeling burned out and in need of recharge and a new view on life.

Arlene Weisskopf and John Palmer: The Untimely Deaths of Two Friends & Former Colleagues

THE NIGHTWATCH FAMILY, IN A HAPPY PHASE, CIRCA 1987. ARLENE WEISKOPF IS TO THE RIGHT OF CHARLIE ROSE, IN BLACK AND WHITE STRIPED TOP

It's been a week of terribly sad news about friends and former colleagues who met untimely deaths - John Palmer of NBC News and Arlene Weiskopf of CBS News.

The news of John's death came first, at the beginning of the week.  We worked together in the 70s, at the NBC News Washington bureau, where I also worked with Nancy Doyle. Nancy and John fell in love and married and lived a great love story.  I'd see them here and there, on and off, we shared many mutual friends and often kept up that way, and most recently we were together at the Hillwood gala, where John was on the board. In fact, Hillwood loved him. He was "the perfect board member," according to another good friend, Ellen Charles, who is the president of the board and Marjorie Merriweather Post's heir. Hillwood will host the reception for family and friends after John's memorial service at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church on Saturday. 

JOHN PALMER AT THE RECENT HILLWOOD GALA

John died of pulmonary fibrosis at GW Hospital. Nancy comforted friends when she sent out notice of his passing. "These last few weeks have actually been an amazing and beautiful time for our family and I can happily report that he truly did not suffer and we had lots of visiting, reminiscing and laughter and he remained his funny, kind, generous and heroic self throughout. Truly inspiring."

Many memories of John and Nancy, but one that remains very clear is how we once crossed paths in Bermuda. Howard and I were embarking on our honeymoon and John and Nancy were finishing up a second honeymoon. A few laughs at the airport as we went our romantic ways. We also intersected here in Washington with mutual friends Amy Bondurant and David Dunn, and their mutual friend Jim Bitterman. 

A day after John's death I learned of Arlene's sudden death. We met at CBS News in 1984, where we were both producers and, for a little while, office mates at Nightwatch, the fun, spectacular, crazy and fascinating overnight talk show -- a first of its kind -- hosted by Charlie Rose.  (Seriously, someone should write the book or make the movie). Anyone who worked with us during that time, and with a particular executive producer, will nod knowingly when I say we did great work but we also went through A LOT of hell together and are bonded for life on that basis.

The E.P. felt he was superior to the staff. With the exception of a very few favorites, none of us measured up to him; we (adults) were either yelled at or ignored, told often and in personal ways that we were failures, were handed down arbitrary "punishments," mocked behind our backs, and, in the case of some of the younger women staff, sexually harassed. There's more that was worse but doesn't need to be relived here. The morale was in the sub-basement, but we as a group kept our focus on the work, did well and relied on each other for support (lunches together, gallows humor and white wine helped). We wondered why the heirarchy in NY let the abuse go on. Arlene was sometimes at her desk in tears after an irrational dressing down in his offce. She was not alone. 

In time, when the staff bravely unified against him, and made the higher ups aware of the professional and emotional trauma in our office, and with the help of the deputy chief of the Washington bureau, the reign of hell ended. The E.P. didn't get outright fired but was "allowed to resign," as those things are sometimes handled in the corporate world. Several staff filed a lawsuit against CBS News for the way they were treated by this man, particularly in regard to sexual harassment, and won. A woman was named Executve Producer. Nightwatch rolled on and with the new E.P. it became a happy work environment. Eventually, everyone moved on with thriving careers -- Arlene, for sure, to the role of producer of Face The Nation.

We may not see each other as often as we should, but with what we went through together all of us are solid. So, the news spread fast among us that Arlene had died after a fall. 

From one of our CBS News colleagues: "Over the years, as good friends, we laughed many times about how crazy it all was. For better or worse, Arlene and all of us put so much of our lives second to the show. But that was Nightwatch in a nutshell...we went flat out...gave it our all. And after any of these frantic, frenzied booking sessions (often daily) we'd sit back, enjoy that euphoric high of getting it done, and then do it all over again. Ah those were the days!"

Lasting memory: Arlene had tried to do something with her hair color and and it didn't work out quite right. Her stylist said that to reconcile the problem she would have to go purple for a while.  So, in an era before punk or goth or hipsters, Arlene spent about a month with purple hair, coming and going, doing her work, sitting at her desk. It was very funny. She laughed, too. 

For Arlene, whose obituary lists her as Arlene Carey Lissit, there will be a funeral Saturday at 1 pm at Pumphrey's Funeral Home in Rockville, followed by a private reception at her home, hosted by her husband, Bob Lissit. If you know Arlene and want more details, please contact  Susan B. Fitzgerald or me: Carol.

In the saddest way, so many friends from my many years in network news have come back into my life this week -- many emails back and forth -- and it's warming, but I so wish the circumstances were different. Many of the messages rest on  the thought of how fleeting life is and how we don't see each other often enough and the need to embrace the ones we love as much as we can. So, a gentle reminder: Hug well, hug often. 

Related articles

Longtime NBC News reporter John Palmer dies at 77

Statement from NBC News on the passing of John Palmer

Photos From A Night Out At Nats Park; Fun But For The Score

IN THE STANDS WITH THE FANS, GM MIKE RIZZO, IN BLUE, AND SCREECH.

JAYSON WERTH AT BAT

A SENSATIONAL STEPHEN STRASBURG, COMING AT YA

MICHAEL GOESELE, HAVING A GOOD TIME, REGARDLESS

MICHAEL ABOUT TO GET SOME RABBIT EARS FROM ANTHONY FAUCI

MICHAEL ET MOI

DELICIOUS ROAST BEEF AT THE BUFFET

ICE CREAM WITH "NATITUDE"

STOREN OUT, ABAD IN FOR THE 9TH INNING

DAVEY JOHNSON NEWS CONFERENCE; OVER AND OUT FOR THE NIGHT

Tuesday Night Dinner at Le Diplomate

AUBREY SARVIS, DAVID DUNN, MOI, ELLEN CHARLES, AMY BONDURANT

Dinner at Le Diplomate. So far, it does not tire and remains interesting and delicious and a treat to share with friends. As tonight ... what did we talk about? Politics, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, sex, royal babies, real estate, food, Paris, John Kerry, children, sandwich delivery, math, each other. 

AGELESS MODERN LIFE

Funny, at one point everyone had their cell phones on the table. I snapped a casual photos. Looks staged, but it's not. It's just ageless modern life.

Who was there? Well. Those I spent some stop-n-chat time with included Jonathan Capehart, Patrick O'Connell and Adam Mahr ... plus their dates/friends/significant others. Were their other boldfacers there? Of course. 

HANDSOME MEN: AUBREY SARVIS AND DAVID DUNN

No food pics this time but I always recommend a read or re-read of the Le Diplomate story I did for New York Social Diary. 

Lunch at Michael's New York, Table 8, w/ David & Rachel

THE SUNNY, PRETTY SETTING AT MICHAEL'S ON WEST 55TH STREET

A quick up and back to New York today -- just because -- including a stop at Michael's on West 55th Street to have lunch with New York Social Diary's David Patrick Columbia. Joining us was Rachel Tinsley Pearson, who had other business in the city but time for lunch. Rachel and David talked books and politics while I played with my new camera, of course. Michael's new menu is well done. Some good new stuff but retaining the classics - such as what the kitchen does with chicken. Roasted half breast (my choice) and classic chicken paillard (Rachel's choice). We all started with the excellent wedge salad, done with texture and flavor but also lightness; not overwhelmed by dressing. And, of course, a bowl of French fries. Dessert was cappuccino and assorted cookies. I'd like to say I did a lot of shopping, like the old days, but financial reality means frugality. I returned home with  a bottle of perfume and a (real) bagel. Just enough. One of these days I hope to be able to buy new clothing (cue the violins and Otis Redding), but this wasn't the day. We learn to make the most of what we have, don't we? And today it was good friends.

STEVE MILLINGTON, MAESTRO OF THE ROOM, AND DAVID PATRICK COLUMBIA

Here's David's own mention of the lunch, and the paperback edition of "Innocent Spouse" (thoughtful of him) in his Tuesday Social Diary column.

DAVID AND RACHEL AND THE ROOM AND THE FORSYTHIA

MICHAEL'S ICEBERG WEDGE SALAD

CLASSIC CHICKEN PAILLARD WITH ARUGULA

MICHAEL'S FAMOUS FRENCH FRIES

ELLEN CHARLES, WESTMINSTER BLUE RIBBONS & DINNER AT SHANGHAI LOUNGE

THE WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB BLUE RIBBON FOR FIRST PRIZE IN THE NONSPORTING GROUP

If you returned home to DC from the Westminster Kennel Club dog show, the Super Bowl of dogdom, where two of your dogs had won best in their group and made it to the final "Best in Show" round, what would you do with the Blue Ribbons? Ellen Charles hangs hers on a lamp. At least for tonight. She's just back from a very winning week in New York, with two big fat Blue Ribbons -- one for Jewel for winning the hound group and one for Honor for winning the non-sporting group. Best in Show, in a tough final round, went to Banana Joe, a scruffy little affenpinscher. Tonight Ellen said both Jewel and Honor will continue to compete. So, on to next year. 

And then off to celebrate Westminster and Chinese New Year at Shanghai Lounge on Wisconsin Avenue, where the restaurant's owner brought out her adorable dogs, two miniature poodles. Ellen has four poodles at home, at least. Of her 20 some purebred show dogs, most are poodles. Jewel is her only American foxhound and Honor is her only bichon frise. 

The dinner at Shanghai Lounge was a winner, too. Szechuan spicy green beans, spring rolls, Kung Pao Shrimp, Ginger Chicken. What stands out about the food at Shanghai is the freshness of the vegetables. Also, there's a remarkable absence of grease in the texture of all the food. The owner said she hopes to start delivery in the next month or so. What a gift for Georgetown if that happens. 

THEY'RE BAD, BUT THEY'RE GOOD, AND THEY'RE FUN

DAREN THOMAS, RACHEL PEARSON AND ROGER WHYTE

Thank God for Mondays with friends! Right? I needed a triple dose this Monday night and I got it at Bourbon Steak, with Daren Thomas, Rachel Pearson and Roger Whyte, The occasion was to celebrate Roger's leaving the Washington Performing Arts Society to go out on his own as an event production mastermind.  Also, he's director of events for the newly rehabbed Power House in Georgetown. This is a powerful event space.

I first became acquainted with it when PR impresario Robert Keith Gray had his offices there, and christened the building the Power House. Later, it was the offices of Herb Miller's Western Development Corporation. It langored recently but apparently has been rescued by Roger and his team. If you are a party person, then expect to enter its Grace Street doors sometime this year. And if you want to reach Roger to book it for a whatever, his number is 202-584-0062.

Geez, I don't know whether I have permission to post his phone number, but then he did give me his card and he didn't say it was "off the record." And he is in business!

Daren is head of development for the WPAS, Rachel is on the board. These three get together and it's nothing but drink, yack, drink, yack, drink, yack. In other words, a good time with serious dish. 

When we parted I headed home but they  each went off in different directions for various liaisons. MPTT.

Richard Nixon's 100th Birthday Party

HARRY SHEARER AND ED NIXON

Only in Washington. Ed Nixon, Richard Nixon's younger brother, at the Mayflower Hotel bar with Harry Shearer, who portrays Nixon in a British television production, "Nixon's The One." Shot this after we attended Richard Nixon's 100th birthday party. A dear friend, Harry traveled to DC from Santa Monica to be my date for the occasion. It was a reunion of the Nixon Administration, or at least those who are still with us. Harry and I ended up in the Mayflower Bar with Nixon, Steve Bull, Steve's wife, former Navy Secretary John Lehman and others from that time. Oh, what a night. 

Fred Thompson and Harry Shearer, the only two professional actors at the dinner, "professional" being the relevant world. Fred's a long-time friend, and a sports fan, and so we talked RGIII. What he had to say will be on washingtonian.com tomorrow. 

Henry Kissinger at the pre-dinner cocktail party. Later, after he ended the conversation,  I asked him who he had been talking to. He said, "my former secretary." Kinda sweet. When I wanted to talk some more, he said, "walk with me." And I did, because it's one of the great "I'm in charge" lines. I then used it twice myself over the course of the evening. "Walk with me," and they did. 

Spencer Joynt's 21st Birthday at The Inn At Little Washington

THE 1991 ECHÉZEAUX BOUGHT BY HOWARD FOR SPENCER TO HAVE WHEN HE TURNED 21

Happy 21st Birthday to my son, Spencer, and a million loving thank you's to his godmother, Jean Perin, for hosting his birthday dinner at The Inn at Little Washington, and to his godfather, Patrick O'Connell, the Inn's chef and owner, for creating a memorable, sensational and delicious birthday dinner.

CHAMPAGNE AT THE START OF DINNER

The meal began with Louis Roederer Cristal and caviar and danced on for seven more elegant and inventive courses ... and that's not counting the assortment of groovy canapés we devoured before dinner in The Inn's "living room."

SPENCER WITH JEAN PERIN, WEARING THE STETSON HE GOT FOR HER AT ALLEN'S BOOTS IN AUSTIN 

We were joined by some of our dearest friends, who all go way back with us: Ellen Charles, Sally Hosta, and Beverly and John Fox Sullivan. (John is also Little Washington's mayor, and we sat at "the mayor's table.")  Collectively we gave Spencer a birthday gift of a trip to Las Vegas, with one TBA traveling companion. That went over well, to say the least. 

SPENCER JOYNT WITH HIS GODFATHER, PATRICK O'CONNELL

The menu included these dishes: A Shot of White Bean Soup with Truffled Grilled Cheese Sandwich; The Mayor's Oyster Slurpees; A Tin of Sin; Nantucket Bay Scallops Sautéed with Curried Cauliflower, Sultanas and Garlic Chips; Olive-Crusted Chesapeake Bay Rockfish with Artichoke Tortellini in an Orange Pernod Essence; Spencer's Halloween Pumpkin filled with Pumpkin Risotto and the Season's First White Truffles from Alba; Pan Seared Duck Breast with Seared Foie Gras and Red Wine Poached Pear.

NANTUCKET BAY SCALLOPS WITH CAULIFLOWER, SULTANAS AND GARLIC CHIPS

There were sumputous wine pairings for each course, including a Grand Cru white Burgundy and a white Châteauneuf du Pape and the showstopper, a DRC Echézeaux from Spencer's birth year, 1991. Howard bought the bottle for Spencer's 21st and it had been resting in the Inn's wine cellar all these years, waiting for this occasion. It was as magnificent, earthy and palate-boggling as this wine can be, and took me back to so many, many meals with Howard and a bottle of DRC. It was our first date wine, with many more to come over the next 20 years. His favorite, though, was Echézeaux (with La Tâche not far behind). So, as we sipped this wine, Howard was with us at the dinner.

PATRICK O'CONNELL CALLS THIS A "TIN A OF SIN." I CALL IT ONE OF CUISINE'S GREAT GIFTS

There were many toasts through the meal, and the telling of stories of how we all met, and memories of Howard and recollections of Spencer's variety of markers along the path of growing up. And gift giving, of course. Spencer had gifts from Texas for everyone, including a Stetson for Jeannie and a "Longhorns" sweat shirt for Patrick and a Texas t-shirt for John, and hats and bracelets for Beverly, Ellen and Sally. 

MAYOR SULLIVAN AND CHEF O'CONNELL WITH THEIR TEXAS GEAR

From gift-giving it was on to dessert. Pumpkins played a role twice in the meal. And here's the backstory: Spencer's first overnight at The Inn was when he was 5 weeks old. There have been dozens more visits over the years, but the one he mentions the most often is the time we spent Halloween there, when he was almost 2-years-old, and Patrick served him pasta in a pumpkin. Thus the pumpkin risotto in a pumpkin/squash. Also, when the birthday cake was rolled out under a sugar dome, it was revealed to be adorned with marzipan pumpkins and to be made of pumpkin spice cake. 

A SHOT OF WINE BEAN SOUP WITH A TRUFFLED GRILLED CHEESE SANDWICH

Searching through photo albums, I found some photos from the very dinner where Spencer had the pasta in a pumpkin. It's notable that he was also dressed as a pumpkin ....SPENCER, AT ALMOST 2-YEARS-OLD, HAVING PASTA IN A PUMPKIN AT THE INN

PATRICK WITH SPENCER, DRESSED AS A PUMPKIN

I can't begin to count the ways Patrick and Jeannie have been good friends to Spencer. And I should point out how the same can be said for his absent godparents: Harry Shearer and Judith Owen and Sahm Doherty Sefton. A very happy memory is a two week boat trip, organized by Howard when Spencer was 4, into the Everglades and up the West Coast of Florida that included Harry, Judith and Jeannie. 

PATRICK WITH THE GOLD-DOMED BIRTHDAY CAKE

PATRICK AND SPENCER AND THE PUMPKIN BIRTHDAY CAKE

BIRTHDAY CAKE DECONSTRUCTED

It was midnight when dinner began to slow toward conclusion. There were many hugs as we said good-bye to Patrick, the staff and to Jeannie and Sally, who were headed back toward Middleburg. As unbelievable as it may sound, given all we'd consumed, the Sullivans, Spencer, Ellen and I returned to the Sullivans, where we were spending the night, for nightcaps of rare Kentucky bourbon. It was so much fun. What was most remarkable was that this morning, when I woke up around 9, I was able to walk and talk.

SPENCER HAVING BREAKFAST WITH HIS DAD AT THE INN IN OCTOBER 1993

Rachel Hayden, who is one of the managers of The Inn, made a booklet-style menu for the evening that included a lot of photos from over the years. Photos of Spencer with Howard. Photos of Spencer with Patrick. Photos of Spencer and me at various Inn meals and overnight stays. On the back cover was the photo above, of Spencer having a father-son breakfast at The Inn. I love that photo. Below is another favorite. It's Spencer and me on The Inn's back terrace, in the spring after Howard died. It reminds me of the safe haven Patrick provided for us; a place to be together and feel secure.

Susan Rappaport's Apptastic Georgetown Halloween Party

FILMMAKER CATHERINE WYLER AND OUR HOST, SUSAN RAPPAPORT

Okay, so I went a little app-tastic tonight at Susan Rappaport's Halloween party at her Georgetown home. I played with a variety of iPhone apps. As I said to one guest after another, "just think of me as the party clown who makes balloon animals." Like many people I'm somewhat uncomfortable at parties. Taking photos is a form of conversation.

Since most of the guests were friends they played along but they did act incomprehensible when I said things like "i'm running this shot through Dynamic Light" or "I've hashtagged the party." High of the night was my colleague Sophie Gilbert tweeting to let me know she was proud of my "hashtagging." She knows I'm a remedial hashtagger.

The food was delicious, per usual chez Rappaport. A great big pot of homemade Texas style chili, accompanied by fixin's and corn bread and corn chips and salad. Plus a bartender and a full bar.

Playing to no stereotypes, please, it was a boffo party, and so what if some of the time people were speaking in French? It was Halloween. Georgetown can't overturn itself entirely, now, can it? Gosh, I hope not. But know this: even brainiac socialites can reveal their inner ghoul and howl for a night. And know this, too: in this era, call someone a socialite and they take out a contract on you. There aren't many authentics left, but they do dwell in caves in Georgetown. 

CAROLINE CROFT, MYRA MOFFETT AND NINA HERRICK

JULIE EARLE AND NINA HERRICK

COSTUMES HIDE IDENTITIES BUT THAT IS DIANA PRINCE ON THE RIGHT

KAREN TAYLOR AND RICHARD RYMLAND

FREDDY PRINCE, SUSAN RAPPAPORT AND RALPH EARLE

MYRA AND MARY MOFFETT WITH BABY CALDER

DAVID AARON

LE HALLOWEEN BUFFET OF HOMEMADE GHOULISH CHILI AND ALL THE FIXIN'S

THE ENTRANCE HALL TABLEAU: BOO!

JULIE EARLE AS THE GEORGETOWN DEVIL WOMAN

SUSAN RAPPAPORT'S FRONT DOOR

Surviving The Storm, So Far, With Friends, Clyde's And Rum #Sandy

HOT BUTTERED RUM, WITH A VIEW OF THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

In dedicated pursuit of a totally chill Hurricane Sandy day away from the office, I convened with friends at Clyde's for a "hurricane lunch." From the looks of all the others who showed up we clearly weren't the only Georgetowners with this idea. With Nathans long closed, when it's weather I think "Clyde's." I'm of a generation that goes out when the wind blows or the snow falls. Maybe that's because I spent my formative years in Manhattan, or maybe because of sailing, but regardless: if it's safe,(and sometimes even if it is not) it's cool to go out and embrace the weather. Weather is one of the few elements we can experience that is timeless. Maybe that's why I've always loved sailing. It's timeless. Name the centurty and they had the same weather.

FAYA CAUSEY AT CLYDE'S

But back to today and lunch and drinking. After going out once in the morning and getting entirely soaked to the bone I pulled out my ancient foul weather gear and rallied some neighbors for another assault on what has been, so far, relatively moderate weather. At least in Georgetown. Winds gusting to maybe 20 at noon. That's not fierce weather. 

MY ACROSS THE STREET NEIGHBOR, DEBBIE WEIL, BEHAVING HERSELF

Has anyone ever told you we widows stick together, especially when an ill wind blows? Well, we do. So Faya Causey (head of Academic Programs at the National Gallery of Art) and I made a plan to have  a "hurricane lunch" at Clyde's and then we expanded it to include some actual married people, my good friends and across the street neighbors, Sam Harrington and Debbie Weil. Sam is an actual medical doctor and I have to commend him for keeping morning hours today, even though many patients canceled. Imagine if you were the patient who wanted to keep the appointment? Wouldn't you have been amazed and delighted that the doctor actually showed up? Exactly. 

WRAPPING AN ARM AROUND THE DOCTOR, SAM HARRINGTON, AT CLYDE'S

What did we have at Clyde's? Hmmm. To be honest, a few of us started with a bruised martini straight up with olives. Not the doctor, though. Sam and Debbie had grilled salmon, Faya had a huge and beautiful chopped salad, and I had steamed lobster, a deal at $18. 

We sat in the bar. I always sit in the bar. Even though I met my husband in the back room at an after hours party I still prefer the bar. I remember coming to that bar at age 14 in my cheerleader's uniform after being on "It's Academic" at Channel 4. My best girlfriend and I went totally rogue -- or so we thought -- and escaped the bus home to Mount Vernon to go wander in Georgetown. It never even occurred to us that we would stand out as peculiar wearing those short little pleated skirts and cropped jumper tops. (Oh, the fantasies of a dozen horny men at the bar, right?) 

What can I say at this point? Enjoy the storm to the extent that it's possible. Me? I wish I were on a mooring in a safe harbor. You've really never heard music until you've heard the sound of halyards slapping a mast. 

Clyde's manager, Dave Delbene, said they would close at 5pm this evening. Not for lack of customers but because staff have no way to get to work with Metro shut down. I think we'll hear that same story throughout the area over this next 24-48 hours of storm drama.

A Meal At Oyamel, Once Again, Transports

A SOUR WITH GRASSHOPPERS AT OYAMEL

YES, I SAID GRASSHOPPERS

Whenever I'm fortunate to be in Austin, and soon after I arrive, I hunt down a meal at one Mexcian or another -- Chuy's, Torchy's, La Condesa or Fonda San Miguel, to name only a small sample. Small because there's so much good Mexican food in Austin (good food in general, actually). But when I depart for home, for Washington, I always say, "at least we have Oyamel." That's because Oyamel comes as close to the real thing as anything we have in DC and possibly the Mid-Atlantic. Dinner tonight was another example of Oyamel getting it done.

DIVER SCALLOPS AT OYAMEL 

A friend and I had dinner plans. After last night's incredible feast at "Chefs for Equality"  my preference was something small and light. But since we share Austin as a passion it seemed only right to go to Oyamel. The drive across town in rush hour was a bitch matched only by the challenge to find parking, but once parked, once inside the restaurant, once in a booth, and with a Margarita in hand, all the stress slipped away. We were in an Austin kind of vibe. Of course we pigged out on salsa and chips and then the tableside guacamole -- extra spicy -- and a first course of ceviche. That was followed by black bean soup, grilled diver scallops, crisp pork belly tacos, chicken with green sauce and, one of my personal faves, the gazpacho salad. "This is so good," he said with each course. "I had no idea you could eat like this in Washington."

 THE GAZPACHO SALAD AT OYAMEL 

Along the way manager Michael Iglesias brought us a couple of tiny cocktails (really, in the prettiest little glasses) that he explained were Oaxaca Sours from their special "Day Of The Dead" menu, (and note, that "Day" is November 1). Floating in the foam on the top were tiny grasshoppers, which my friend crunched into with satisfaction. Call me a wimp. I just haven't gone there yet. 

DULCHE DE LECHE AT OYAMEL

I don't know how we had room for dessert, but we managed to find that centimeter of our stomachs that still had breathing room. It helped a lot that both desserts, Dulche de Leche and Flan, were relatively light and freshed by fruit.

In reviewing my photos, all shot with the iPhone 4s, I was reminded of a woman who stopped me on the street one day. She said she is a regular reader of this blog, "but I miss your photos with the other camera." Well, I do, too, but it's tough to carry around the Canon, which I call "the big boy" for a reason. Still, the iPhone 4s flash never does justice to food. Please allow for what these photos lack. The food looked as beautiful as it tasted.

I did wear my Old Gringo's to dinner, but I didn't need to. Oyamel transported me to Austin (and Mexico) regardless, as it does with every meal.

NOTE: Other Mex I like - Bandolero in Georgetown (ask to sit by the window, where it's quieter and brighter);  in Del Ray there are two, Los Tios Grill and Taqueria el Poblano; and recently at Rosa Mexicano near the Harman Center I had some very good guacamole and margaritas. 

Fun Night at Nats vs Cubs, Including One Brawl, And Then Another (Video)

  

This is what it looked like from Row B on Thursday night when a brawl broke out between the Washington Nationals and the Chicago Cubs. There was a first brawl that subsided, and then just as it subsided, there was another brawl, which is what I recorded above.  According to Davey Johnson it was started when there were some words between the Cubs bench coach and the Nats 3rd base coach, Bo Porter. Note the ump that gets knocked over. If you look to the right you'll see Ryan Zimmerman keeping a hand on Bryce Harper, to hold him back from getting into the fray. It was like an older brother looking out for his younger, more volatile sibling. Two of my faves, Michael Morse and Jayson Werth, were right in the middle, ready to rumble. In it's own way, kinda adorable.

I went to the game with three of my Washingtonian colleagues, above, l-r, Harry Jaffe, Shane Harris and Luke Mullins. We had an absolute blast. Eating, drinking, cheering, jumping up and down, yelling, and repeat. A great night at the ball park. We won 9-2, which prompted some of the Cubs repressed frustration.

Bring on the play-offs and Go Nats. 

Henry von Eichel (Remembered in Photos)

BEST FRIENDS LESLIE COCKBURN AND HENRY VON EICHEL AT NATHANS

There are so many hard parts to the death of Henry von Eichel at his home in Austria on Monday at the age of 64. One of them is that now begins the time when I won't be able to introduce people to Henry, to watch their delight in meeting him and getting to know him, and then thanking me later many times over. Instead, myself, and his many other friends, will have to learn to tell of Henry in a way that shows him, brings him to life, gives as much dimension as possible. All I have for now are photos I'm finding in my archives. Here are some of them, shot mostly in Georgetown, where he also had a home. I hope to find more photos.

HENRY VON EICHEL WITH CRISTINA MITTERMIEIR AT THE NATURE CONSERVANCY DINNER

HENRY VON EICHEL AT NATHANS, WITH LESLIE COCKBURN

NOT THE BEST PIC, BUT IT CAPTURES AN EXPRESSION FAMILIAR TO MANY OF HENRY'S FRIENDS. ALSO, IT SHOWS HIS AFFECTION FOR AND APPRECIATION OF LESLIE

HENRY AND HIS WIFE, MONIKA, AT A CHRISTMAS PARTY AT THEIR GEORGETOWN HOME

THIS IS THE FIRST IN A SEQUENCE OF PHOTOS SHOT AT CITRONELLE BAR, AT A FAREWELL PARTY FOR (THE NOW LATE) DAVID BRUCE AND JANET BRUCE BEFORE THEY MOVED TO CHINA

NANCY BAGLEY, MONIKA VON EICHEL, HENRY VON EICHEL AT CITRONELLE

DAVID BRUCE IN THE PINK SHIRT ON THE LEFT, HENRY IN THE BLUE SHIRT ON THE RIGHT

HENRY AND MONIKA ARE GREETED BY IZETTE FOLGER

THIS IS ONE OF THE LAST PICS I HAVE OF HENRY. IT'S AT A PARTY AT JULEANNA GLOVER'S (ON THE RIGHT). IT WAS AFTER HE'D BEEN ILL FOR A WHILE, BUT HAD BOUNCED BACK AND WAS LOOKING FORWARD (AS ALWAYS).

Staff Picnic, Annapolis

THE WASHINGTONIAN STAFF PICNIC AT A PRIVATE HOME ON THE SEVERN RIVER

The photo above accurately captures the sunny, serene and sweet atmosphere at the Washingtonian staff picnic this afternoon. We were on the banks of the Severn River, just outside Annapolis. The menu was grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, plus potato salad, pasta salad, corn salad, fresh watermelon, cookies. There was a fierce game of baci, kite-flying, and room to roam. Water sports were available, too, though I don't know whether anyone kayaked or sailed. There was a good, brisk breeze. Basically, an altogether good afternoon.  

THIS KITE HAD TO BE RESCUE FROM THE WATER BEFORE BEING RELAUNCHED

On NYSD Today: A Getaway to Manhattan

MONDAY, MARCH 26: FALLEN CHERRY BLOSSOMS ON 31ST STREET

Last week I got out of town for a night. Took the train to NYC for food, wine, friends and shopping. Here's the story today on New York Social Diary. 

And at Washingtonian today, please check out my experience at a lovely Japanese Tea Ceremony. 

Chez Jacobsen, A Romantic Night of Cole Porter, Champagne and Baked & Wired

DAN RUSKIN, SINGING AND PLAYING COLE PORTER

It was a romantic Saturday night of music, French champagne and desserts from Baked & Wired at the home of Simon and Ruth Jacobsen. The featuered entertainment was Dan Ruskin, pianist, singer and storyteller, who you can catch lunchtime at the Prime Rib. He put on a stirring performance of Cole Porter and other romantic standards, and an especially arresting deconstructioin of "Begin the Beguine." The guests in the room will never hear that song the same way again.

THE DESSERT BUFFET OF TREATS FROM BAKED & WIRED

I've attended this musicale before, and it's a night of dreamy tunes, of course, but also white floors, white walls, white flowers and white wine. The Jacobsen home, on 28th Street in Georgetown, as one might expect from an architect, is show enough ... even before Ruskin takes to the ivories. At least a couple of times a week Simon and his father, Hugh Jacobsen, have lunch at Prime Rib at a table that is practically hitched at the hip to Ruskin's piano. 

Out On The Town

A CLASSIC MANHATTAN AT JACK ROSE DINING SALOON

Out on the town last night with good neighbors Sam Harrington and Debbie Weil. We celebrated the end of a long work week at Jack Rose Dining Saloon. Much fun, good food and drink, interesting people. We were joined by owner Bill Thomas and resident whisky czar Harvey Fry.  (Do read Todd Kliman's Harvey Fry  profile) Nonetheless, home before midnight, using Debbie's Uber account (worked like a dream). Rest much welcomed. I have to work tonight and tomorrow night, so ... I'll be able to watch the Ravens-Patriots game, but only a half hour of Giants-49ers. Now, if the latter goes into overtime, I'll return home in time for that. I'd like both games to go into overtime, and I know who I hope wins. But, please, no comments; we all have our faves.

So grateful for my NFL app. I'll be sneaking looks under the table.

THE FIRST COURSE AT WASHINGTONIANS OF THE YEAR LUNCHEON

Earlier this week a lovely luncheon on behalf of Washingtonian's "Washingtonians of the Year." It was held at the Willard Hotel. My table mates included John Derrick, former head of Pepco, Doug Wheeler, Arthur Cotton Moore, Victor Shargai, Jaylee Mead, Terre Jones of Wolf Trap, Joy Zinoman of Studio Theater. In addition to the current honorees, the room was filled with past honorees. Everyone at my table - with one exception (me) - had been a past Washingtonian of the Year. Very cool. Wonderful stories of heroic and good works.

THE VIEW FROM TABLE 20; PUBLISHER CATHY WILLIAMS AT THE PODIUM

It was one of those rare occasions where one feels a great sense of community, and local living, completely apart from the federal government. 

 

What Christmas Looked Like

CHRISTMAS 2011, WASHINGTON, VA.

This photo captures what Christmas morning looked like to me, way out in Virginia, in Rappahannock County, after a great long wonderful and late night with friends at The Inn at Little Washington. We got to bed at 2 o'clock in the morning, joyfully pickled with Champagne and Meursault, and after sitting on a top-of-the-roof deck to admire the incredible array of stars. It was a special way to usher in December 25th. At midnight we sang Carols. In this photo you see The Inn's sheep in the foreground and The Inn in the distant background. 

What was Christmas Eve dinner? Let's see: Popcorn hallowed with layers of shaved Black Truffle, Foie Gras rolled in jingles of Black Truffle, jolly Oyster "Slurpees," merry Maine Day Boat Scallops with Gnocchi, and merry Maine Lobster, wintry Tuna "Wellington," seasonal Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Duck Breast, fruit, Stilton, and many sweets. I think some egg noggy Bourbon was in the mix, too.

Thus an early morning walk before a cheerful Christmas morning country breakfast - yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, fresh juices, eggs benedict, bacon, sausage, croissants, toast, muffins, home made jams and preserves, country butter, coffee.

HOLIDAY FAVES TO GIVE & HAVE

• • 
    
    
  • ALL THESE PLACES ARE IN OR NEAR GEORGETOWN, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF HALE GROVES AND ST. JUDE'S. IN MOST INSTANCES ONLINE ORDERING (**) IS AN OPTION:
  • 
    
  • Anything Red Truck Bakery (personal picks: Bobby's Breakfast, Havana Fruitcake, Bourbon Cake, Double Chocolate, Quiche)**
  • Georgetown Cupcake Holiday Flavors (personal picks: Gingerbread, Christmas Caramel, Choclate Egg Nog)**
  • Yule Log From Patisserie Poupon
  • Stocking Stuffers From A Mano (personal picks: cocktail napkins, books, ornaments, William Yeoward, candles, jewelry, sweets)**
  • Stumptown Coffee, freshly ground, at Baked & Wired (personal picks: cookies, pies, Strawberry cupcake, layer cake, granola)
  • Wine from Bacchus Wine Cellar (let Bassam choose to suit your tastes)**
  • Authentic Coca-Cola from Sprinkles
  • Movie Passes from Loews
  • A Lance Etchison Facial at Blue Mercury
  • Georgetown Pilates classes
  • HoneyBell Oranges from Hale Groves**
  • Chocolates from Fleurir**
  • A FOUR SEASONS massage
  • Burratta from Cowgirl Creamery
  • Fresh Steamed Lobster from Cannons
  • Chocolate Covered Pecans at Morgan's Pharmacy (also soaps, scents, cards)**
  • Christmas Ornaments from St. Jude's

 

Congratulations to Paul Wahlberg and his Brother...

PAUL WAHLBERG, ON THE LEFT. (courtesy of Wahlburgers)

UPDATE Jan 22 2014: Paul now has a reality TV show, "Wahlburgers." Read about it here. For fans of Paul's, he also plays a role in my memoir, Innocent Spouse, which chronicles the insane life of owning a saloon at the busiest corner in Washington DC. Paul's great cooking lifted up the place and was a happy diversion from battling the IRS (we won) and swimming in quicksand, especially digging into his fried clam bellies, and that thing he did with salmon. 

Congratulations to Paul Wahlberg, former chef at Nathans, who opened his Wahlburgers burger place today near home in Hingham, MA. His business partner is brother Mark Wahlberg. 

After Paul left Nathans he and his wife returned to the Boston area. For a while he was back in the restaurant biz, and then for a while went on location to cook for his actor brother (sound familiar? as in "Entourage") and then returned to Hingham to open his own place, Alma Nova (named after Mom, Alma). Alma Nova is next door to the prototype Wahlburgers.

DONNIE, ALMA, PAUL AND MARK WAHLBERG AT THE OPENING OF WAHLBURGERS (courtesy of Wahlburgers)

I hope for Paul that this is just the first installment of his burger business. Go Paul! Open one in DC. Then, Top Chef! (Looks like he won't need Top Chef)

Zoom Zoom (Austin, Greenwich, NY, DC) - on NYSD Today

BEAUTIFUL LONG ISLAND SOUND, JUST ONE OF MY STOPS LAST WEEK

My New York Social Diary column today, my last for now, begins in Austin, returns to DC, and then up to NYC and Greenwich. A good week, in other words. Read it all here.

So, with that, I'm off to work at Washingtonian. 

Bill Dean; with friends Like These...

BILL DEAN AND FRIENDS, INCLUDING A PLAYMATE; WITH FRIENDS LIKE THESE HE ONLY NEEDS MORE FRIENDS

Bill Dean reduces the Georgetown boredom factor by half. A gentleman friend who was with me on July 4th - at Bill's annual party - wrote today to report that a woman we met is the new Playboy centerfold. When Bill introduced us he said she had just posed. She is on the right in the above picture, which I pulled from the archives, and, if Google is to be trusted, her name is Amanda Cerny.

 BILL, AT SAME PARTY, WITH DIFFERENT GROUP OF FRIENDS

It's not at all surprising that Bill, my neighbor and friend, who owns and runs the M.C. Dean electrical engineering company, would have a friend who is a Playboy centerfold. He hosts incredible parties, as I've written about on New York Social Diary. Whenever I am a guest at his home I assume many of the women are centerfold models.  Many are so young it is almost shocking, but not really, only very different from the Georgetown mode. Life is good at the Dodge Mansion.

Bill seems to enjoy life a lot - life and friends.