Bethesda Magazine - March/April 2026

Ask the Experts

Your Neighborhood, Our Expertise:

DC’s Most Trusted Real Estate Team

Susan and Kate Sanford guide buyers and sellers with deep local knowledge and proven strategy

Susan: 301.943.3493

SusanSanford@longandfoster.com

Kate: 301.928.8589

Kate.Sanford@longandfoster.com

What do sellers not realize can significantly impact their final sale price?

It’s important for sellers to understand that most buyers are allergic to doing work! Buyers and their agents first tour homes online, then decide whether to visit in person, so those online photos need to pique their interest and get maximum public exposure. Including—or not including—some photos and angles can make a huge difference in buyer perception. Simple fixes can bring big returns. Many buyers focus on kitchens and bathrooms. Refreshing those rooms with paint, new countertops, flooring, lighting, appliances and vanities can have a huge impact on sales prices. Plus, don’t overlook curb appeal. A freshly painted front door, flowers and nice landscaping are key. It’s also important to remember that older HVAC systems, roofs and deferred maintenance can be overwhelming to buyers. Identifying a seller’s budget for updating or freshening a home can maximize the sale price.

We prepare every listing for a true “wow pow” moment—launching it publicly out of the gate to attract the most eyes possible. This is our tried-and-true recipe for success that puts our clients’ best interests at the forefront of everything we do.

What do you love most about living and working in this community, and why does that help your clients?

We are unique and fortunate to be Bethesda experts and multigenerational Washingtonians! Susan grew up in Glen Mar Park, attended neighborhood public schools and graduated from Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, as did her husband. They raised their four

About the Experts:

With a track record of success, The Sanford Group delivers exceptional real estate experiences across the DMV. Lifelong Bethesda residents, the team offers a unique understanding of the neighborhoods, architecture and lifestyle that define the most soughtafter communities.

Susan, an Associate Broker earning seven National Associations of Realtor designations, leads the group as a respected real estate industry expert and Forbes Luxury Specialist. Kate brings a modern, strategic approach to today’s evolving market and was named Montgomery County 2023 Rookie of the Year. The team is based at Long & Foster’s One Bethesda office, named Bethesda Magazine’s #1 real estate office for 2026.

kids in the neighborhood. Kate, Susan’s real estate partner and daughter, attended private schools in Bethesda and graduated from Norwood and Holton Arms. Like her mom, Kate had such fond memories of growing up in the neighborhood that she and her husband moved from Washington, D.C. to Sumner to start their family.

It’s an honor for us to list and sell homes where we grew up, and a gift to share with buyers all the wonderful amenities of a neighborhood when it’s been a part of your family for five generations. Having personal experiences, accurate information and answers sets us apart.

What do you see as our market outlook and trends for 2026?

With 2026 positioned as a “reset year for real estate,” we’re keeping a strong pulse on the market. Historically, the metro area has been less volatile than many other parts of the country, and we expect that trend to continue. Rather than dramatic swings, 2026 is shaping up to be a more balanced market.

Interest rates are moving in a positive direction, hovering around 6 percent with some predicted reductions into the high-5 percent range. With lower rates, we should see improved affordability, with buyers getting off the sidelines and more inventory coming onto the market. While the median home price in the region rose 3.6 percent in 2025, price growth is beginning to soften heading into 2026, further supporting a more stable and normalized environment.

Technology will play an increasingly important role. AI is no longer a “nice to have,” but part of real estate’s everyday infrastructure, used in practical, non-gimmicky ways by both agents and clients. For example, AI can help buyers visualize potential updates during a showing by generating real-time images of renovations. That said, real estate remains a relationshipdriven business—AI will support the process, but it will never replace experienced realtors. Finally, a new trend to watch in 2026 is co-buying, as more buyers explore creative ownership solutions. It’s an emerging shift, and one we’ll be keeping an eye on as it evolves.

CULTURE WATCH

Two Great Events!

NATIONAL PHILHARMONIC

FRENCH MASTERS: RAVEL, DEBUSSY + TAILLEFERRE

MARCH 7 AT 7:30PM

The Masters of French music shine on March 7 at The Music Center at Strathmore, as Andrew Grams conducts National Philharmonic in works by Tailleferre, Debussy, and Ravel, featuring harpist Bridget Kibbey. Tickets starting at $29. All Kids FREE.

EXTREME CHOPIN: THE FINALE

APRIL 11 AT 7:30PM

On April 11, pianist Brian Ganz completes his quest to perform every note written by prolific Polish composer Frédéric Chopin. Don’t miss the grand finale of the Extreme Chopin Project! Tickets starting at $29. All Kids FREE. nationalphilharmonic.org | 301-581-5100

Spring Studio Tour

COUNTRYSIDE ARTISANS

APRIL 17-19, OCTOBER 2-4, DECEMBER 4–6

10PM - 5PM EACH DAY

DISCOVER NEW LOCAL ART!

Don’t miss the Countryside Artisans Spring Studio Tour, April 17–19, from 10am–5pm each day. Visit nearly 20 artist studios, all within 30 miles of Sugarloaf Mountain in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. Enjoy artist demonstrations, displayed works, and stops at a winery, brewery, and tea room. Follow the self-guided map for a weekend celebrating art, craft, and Maryland’s agricultural landscape. Tickets: Free countrysideartisans.com art@countrysideartisans.com

Award-Winning Professional Theatre, Classes, and Camps for Children

PRESENTED BY IMAGINATION STAGE BETHESDA, MD

PROFESSIONAL THEATRE

GOOD MORNING, GOOD NIGHT MARCH 21 - APRIL 19

In this brand-new show, children will discover the beauty of the world during daytime and nighttime. They will watch–and help–Winnie and August work the “day shift:” waking the birds, putting dew in the grass, and baking fresh clouds; and the “night shift:” releasing the fireflies, shining the stars, and banishing nightmares. This show uses gentle, multi-sensory storytelling and incorporates audience participation. Best for ages 1-4. Buy Tickets online!

EDUCATION

6-week Spring Classes for Ages 1 and up start March 17

CAMPS

www.imaginationstage.org 301-280-1660

Join our Spring Break Camps for grades K-5, March 30 - April 3 Summer Camps Registration is now open for Summer 2026! Imagination Stage’s programs nurture and empower young people of all abilities in a fun and inclusive environment. Imagination Stage has 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-week camps for ages 4-18, at locations in Bethesda, Rockville, and NW DC.

CULTURE WATCH

Aesop’s Fables

ADVENTURE THEATRE MTC

APRIL 24 - MAY 24

Aesop’s Fables is a vibrant, theatrical adventure that brings timeless tales to life with wit, warmth, and whimsy. Adapted by acclaimed playwright Mike Kenny, this fast-paced production features a lovable troupe of traveling storytellers—Wolfie, Syd, Harriet, and Barry—who use humor and imagination to retell five classic fables: The Tortoise and the Hare, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, The Wind and the Sun, The Lion and the Mouse, and The Wolf and the Jackdaw.

adventuretheatre-mtc.org 301-634-2270

Discover Your County’s Creative Soul

CULTURESPOTMC.COM

This arts and cultural calendar is your essential companion for exploring the vibrant arts and culture scene right here in Montgomery County. From world-class performances and diverse cultural festivals to engaging art classes and summer camps for kids, this comprehensive calendar has it all. Connect with the rich tapestry of people, events, and artistic expressions that make our community unique. Plan your next enriching family outing or exciting night out today!

Weekly ticket giveaways + Direct links to all events

CultureSpotMC.com

Pointe to the Future!

AKHMEDOVA BALLET ACADEMY

ABA stands as a model of excellence in classical ballet training, offering young dancers a rigorous, nurturing environment where discipline, artistry, and individuality are elevated every day. Under worldclass guidance, students develop strong Vaganova technique, musicality, and the confidence to grow into expressive, versatile artists. ABA’s commitment to small classes, personalized coaching, exciting performance opportunities, and high artistic standards ensures that every dancer receives the attention they need to thrive.

We welcome dedicated students who are ready to work with passion and purpose to audition for our Summer Intensives and Year Round Programs. Whether you are seeking focused summer training or a comprehensive pre-professional path, ABA provides the foundation, inspiration, and mentorship to help you reach your highest potential.

Admission and Audition: Contact@AkhmedovaBallet.org akhmedovaballet.org | 301-593-6262

EXPERIENCE SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY

The Home Issue

Up For Renewal

Three thoughtful home renovations BY

JENNIFER BARGER

Home goods inspired by the days of yore BY CAROLYN

WEBER

The local real estate agents and teams with the highest sales volumes

Home Sale Trends

Highlights from 2025’s housing market in Montgomery County and Upper Northwest D.C., plus five-year trends in 17 ZIP codes

ON THE COVER: A SILVER SPRING HOME FEATURED IN “UP FOR RENEWAL,” PAGE 60 / PHOTO BY ANICE HOACHLANDER

Bethesda Magazine (ISSN # 3069-079X; USPS # 25871), March/April 2026, is published six times a year, plus one additional special issue in September, for $19.95 per year by Bethesda Magazine (4520 East West Highway, Suite 612, Bethesda, MD 20814). Periodicals postage paid at Gaithersburg, MD. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bethesda Magazine. c/o Specialized Fulfillment Services. Attn: Teresa Holley. 3100 Valleywood Drive, Kettering OH 45429.

FEATURES

116

Extraordinary Teens

10 high school students making a difference in the community BY ROBIN L. FLANIGAN, JILLIAN LYNCH & AMY REININK

128

Bethesda Interview: Maggie Rose

The singer-songwriter on growing up in Potomac and performing at the Grand Ole Opry BY MIKE UNGER

Let’s talk

Every so often you reach a moment that demands an important conversation. When it arrives, Glenmede is ready with sophisticated wealth and investment management solutions delivered with the personalized service you deserve.

glenmede.com

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Experience the freedom to live your way at Stratton Place , where expansive luxury homes meet a premier, commuter-friendly location rich with everyday amenities—and no HOA restrictions.

STRATTON PLACE, WHERE YOU BELONG

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Coming up at

An Evening With Yotam Ottolenghi

Tue, March 3

Pilobolus

Other Worlds Collection

Thu, March 5

Academy of St Martin in the Fields

Joshua Bell, Music Director & Violin

Fri, March 6— limited availability!

Stand By Me:

The Film and Its Stars

40 Years Later

Sat, March 14

Strathmore & Washington Performing Arts Present Ravi Shankar Ensemble

Thu, March 19

Emmet Cohen Presents: Miles and Coltrane at 100

Sat, March 21

The Okee Dokee Brothers

Sun, March 22

Diana Krall

Tue, March 24

Ladysmith Black Mambazo

Thu, March 26

Meshell Ndegeocello

Fri, March 27

Angélique Kidjo

Thu, April 9

Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

Sun, April 12

Strathmore & Live Nation Present

Natalia Lafourcade Cancionera Tour

Tue & Wed, April 14 & 15

W. Kamau Bell Who’s With Me?

Fri, April 17

Eliades Ochoa

Sun, April 19

10th Anniversary Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards

Fri, April 24

CONTRIBUTOR SPOTLIGHT

Homes Sweet Homes

MOST OF US PROBABLY HAVE RENOVATIONS we’d like to do in our homes—a kitchen, a bathroom, adding more space. I know I do. It’s a delicate balance between updating to fit with today’s trends and maintaining the original architect’s style and intention. In this issue, we highlight three thoughtful transformations of homes in our area (“Up for Renewal,” page 60). Take a peek at what the homeowners did to preserve the look of their homes as they modernized.

Montgomery County is a hotbed of homegrown talent. In this issue we spotlight singer-songwriter Maggie Rose, who grew up in Potomac and has been nominated twice for a Grammy Award (Bethesda Interview, page 128). We also spoke with Zainab Azizi, a producer of the hit movie Send Help, about her time growing up in the county and how her career has taken off (page 38). The Q&A with Azizi is part of our redesigned Banter section, focusing on noteworthy people and trends. If you have an idea for a story on a local resident or business, please let us know via email: editorial@BethesdaMagazine.com.

Every year we feature high school students through our Extraordinary Teen Awards. Read about this year’s teens starting on page 116. They’re following their passions, and all have an impressive list of accomplishments at a young age.

I hope you enjoy this issue of the magazine.

KATHLEEN NEARY EDITOR

KELSEY GLADING BETHESDA

BACKGROUND: Originally from Potomac, Glading is a photographer who specializes in families and headshots.

IN THIS ISSUE: Glading took the photos of Maggie Rose for the Bethesda Interview, starting on page 128.

FAVORITE MOCO SPOTS: In addition to spending time along the C&O Canal, some of Glading’s favorite spots are O’Donnell’s Market in Potomac, Grace Street Coffee Roasters in Bethesda and Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream in Bethesda.

WHAT SHE DOES FOR FUN: Glading enjoys walking her dog with neighbors, cooking and baking, playing board games, including mahjong and Rummikub, and taking Pilates and SoulFire Collective yoga classes. Most of all, spending time with family is her favorite activity, she says. “Nothing makes me happier than being on the beach with loved ones until the sun goes down.”

CONTRIBUTOR SPOTLIGHT

TODD KLIMAN HYATTSVILLE, MARYLAND

BACKGROUND: Originally from Greenbelt, Maryland, Kliman is an author, essayist and two-time James Beard Award winner.

IN THIS ISSUE: Kliman wrote about Shibuya Eatery in Chevy Chase, Dolan Uyghur restaurant in Rockville and Taqueria Sabor Mixteco in Silver Spring, starting on page 146.

FAVORITE MOCO SPOTS: “Loading up the cart at H Mart in [Wheaton] and exploring the vast array of Asian restaurants, cafes and bakeries in Rockville.”

WHAT HE DOES FOR FUN: Kliman enjoys reading novels and poetry, cooking, wandering through art museums and following the NBA, especially the Washington Wizards.

Luxury like no other

Expertise like no other

At TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, our commitment has always been to curate an exceptional experience for our clients – one that is characterized by excellence, integrity, and professionalism. Whether you are buying your first home, relocating, or exploring real estate opportunities locally or abroad, our team of experts provides personalized advice and strategies backed by deep market knowledge and a global network.

From the bustling neighborhoods in The District to the country homes of Loudoun County, our reach covers a variety of different regions, and our team provides a wealth of expertise like no other.

Trusted Advisors, Outstanding Outcomes since 1968. Over $2.1 Billion in sales.

#1 Team in Maryland Brokerage with TTR Sotheby’s International Realty.

Led by Corey Burr, a 39-year real estate industry veteran. Contact us to discuss your real estate needs.

m +1 301 346 3345 | cburr@ttrsir.com BurrGroup.com

Lauren Davis

Lauren Davis is recognized as one of the top real estate agents in the Bethesda area, earning praise and respect from clients, colleagues and competitors alike. She grew up in Edgemoor and attended Bethesda - Chevy Chase High School and Denison University.

Carolyn Homes

From

Left to right:

Hannah Moholt, Carolyn Sappenfield, Amanda Hewitt, Jacqui Quila

Ranked in the top 1% of agents nationwide with more than $700 million in career sales, Carolyn Sappenfield and her team deliver exceptional service and maximize client returns in every transaction. As lifelong DC area residents, they draw on deep local expertise and an extensive network to guide clients confidently from start to finish. The team’s success is grounded in integrity, problem-solving, and unwavering dedication. Their thriving referralbased business reflects both a proven track record and the lasting trust they’ve built with clients over time.

“I truly understand the value of owning a home in this area and love helping new neighbors find their place in the community.” m

|

William Fastow

Licensed in DC, MD, and VA, Will brings 20 years of real estate experience as a native Washingtonian and trusted Spring Valley resident and neighborhood expert. An expert in architecture and construction, he uses his wealth of knowledge to represent buyers, sellers, and developers across our region’s most desirable neighborhoods. Focused on a consultative and holistic approach to real estate, Will’s mantra is “always be bringing value” to every interaction. This approach has earned him the trust of his clients and contributed to over 250 million dollars in career sales with TTR Sotheby’s.

Kelly Basheer Garrett

Kelly Basheer Garrett, MBA ranks among the top 1.5% of agents nationally, earning recognition as a Real Trends Verified Agent and a Top Producer in the D.C. Metro Area. With deep market insight, strategic expertise, and an unwavering commitment to her clients, she has successfully represented over $190 million in sales. Licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, Kelly specializes in helping buyers and sellers at every stage—whether purchasing a first home, upgrading, downsizing, or relocating. With a background in real estate finance and a passion for the industry, she ensures a seamless experience tailored to each client’s needs.

m +1 202 258 7362 | kgarrett@ttrsir.com KellyGarrett.SothebysRealty.com

Finnell Lee Homes

Powerful Reach, Extraordinary Results: This is the hallmark of Finnell Lee Homes, a top producing team in the Chevy Chase office of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. Founders Anne-Marie Finnell and Kelly Lee lead a dedicated team of Sales Associates Eva Anifantis, Nasim Shojaei, and Louise Wild, alongside Operations Manager Heather Turekian. Together, they ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and profitable buying and selling experience. Finnell Lee Homes is licensed in DC, MD, and VA, and stands ready to help you with all of your real estate needs!

m +1 202 329 7117 | FinnellLeeHomes@ttrsir.com FinnellLeeHomes.com

Yianni Konstantopoulos

Yianni Konstantopoulos leads the THRIVE Team @ TTR Sotheby’s International Realty, a top-performing DMV real estate group. A “Best of Bethesda” honoree and Washingtonian “Top Agent” for over a decade, Yianni has driven more than $625 million in residential sales across Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Known for strategic pricing, decisive negotiation, and white-glove service, he delivers standout outcomes for buyers, sellers, and investors. Off the clock, he trains for marathons on the Capital Crescent Trail with his vizsla, Ace.

m +1 202 957 3339 | ykonstantopoulos@ttrsir.com AlwaysBeThriving.com

Barbara Carnemark Nalls

An industry leader for almost three decades, Barbara’s style is passionate, strategic, client oriented…and a bit of fun. Working across a variety of communities, styles, and price points, she brings deep experience, professional recognition, creative marketing, and strong local knowledge to every transaction. More than a tough negotiator, her goal is always to serve her clients interests and support their unique needs through a time of transition. Home. Let’s get there together.

m +1 240 602 9035 | bnalls@ttrsir.com BarbaraNalls.com

Laurie Muir & Kathryn Schwartz

Laurie Muir & Kathryn Schwartz approach real estate with heart, expertise, and a deep commitment to their clients.

For them, it’s never been about the trophies, the totals, or the stats on paper. Their work is defined by trust, thoughtful conversations, and the referrals that mean the world. Behind every front door is a real story— and they consider it a privilege to help write the next chapter.

Homes are personal—and being welcomed into someone’s story is the truest measure of success. Laurie and Kathryn are grateful for every client who lets them be part of that journey.

m +1 202 320 9395 | roostgroup@ttrsir.com

TheRoostGroup.SothebysRealty.com

Kirsten Williams

Kirsten began her real estate career in the Washington metropolitan area in 1997 and quickly established herself as a top-producing sales associate, earning respect as a leader in the industry. In addition to her successful sales career, Kirsten serves as the Managing Broker of the TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Chevy Chase and Cleveland Park offices, where she oversees a team of 70+ real estate professionals. Known for her professionalism and extensive knowledge of the local market, Kirsten is also deeply committed to understanding the unique needs and goals of each of her clients, earning her the trust and admiration of both clients and colleagues alike.

m +1 202 657 2022 | kcwilliams@ttrsir.com KirstenWilliams.SothebysRealty.com

• 4,550 SF fully renovated gallery-style residence

• Architecturally reimagined from two combined homes

• Museum lighting, mahogany accents, rich hardwoods

• Walls of glass opening to expansive balcony views

• Chef's kitchen with oversized island & designer finishes

• Primary retreat with two spa baths & couture dressing rooms.

• 24-hour gated security, concierge, resort amenities

• Pools, tennis, fitness, clubhouse

BETHESDA MAGAZINE EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Linda Fears

EDITOR

Kathleen Neary

MANAGING EDITOR

Amy Orndorff

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Jillian Lynch

ART DIRECTOR

Olivia Sadka

CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER

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INTERNS

PUBLISHING

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

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DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING OPERATIONS

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SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

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DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS

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DIGITAL PRODUCER

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CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

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COPY EDITORS

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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PHOTOGRAPHERS & ILLUSTRATORS

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INTERN

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ADVERTORIAL EDITOR

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ADVERTORIAL WRITERS

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ADVERTORIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

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Steve and Susan Hull

BETHESDA TODAY EDITORIAL

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INTERN

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Voted

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Bethesda Magazine is published six times a year by Today Media. © 2026

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THINGS WE LOVE RIGHT NOW 5

SAY OLÉ

Enjoying tapas, patatas bravas and tortilla española followed by an electrifying flamenco performance might sound like a night in Madrid’s Plaza Mayor, but the experience takes place right here in Rockville.

Once a month, El Mercat Bar de Tapas is taken over by Mariana Gatto, a dancer who grew up in Madrid and lives in Bethesda. Gatto commands the dining room passionately, clapping her hands and clicking her heels— the movements of flamenco. “The energy is raw, expressive and draws everyone into the experience,” says El Mercat Owner and Executive Chef George Rodrigues, who lives in Rockville. An authentic Spanish flamenco trio—a guitarist, vocalist and one member playing the cajón, a traditional Spanish percussion box— accompanies Gatto.

The next flamenco night will take place on March 24 from 7-9 p.m. The shows are free and reservations are strongly encouraged. After the performances, Gatto also offers a quick lesson.

101 Gibbs St., Rockville, 240-403-7436, elmercatbardetapas.com

There’s been a buzz around 2Fifty Texas BBQ since its first location opened in 2020 in Riverdale Park, Maryland, but the chainlet doesn’t have a Montgomery County outpost. Skip the trek and get a taste of the Texas-style barbecue at No Regrets Pizza Co. in North Bethesda. Since opening in 2024, No Regrets has been offering 2Fifty’s pulled pork and brisket in a fusilli pasta dish, on a sandwich with brie and fig compote, or on top of a pizza that’s finished with a barbecue sauce made at No Regrets. The collab is expected to continue and will also be on the menu at the takeout branch of No Regrets slated to open in Bethesda in May. 5454 Nicholson Lane, Suite 180, North Bethesda, 301-200-3003, noregretspizza.com 1

’CUE TO QUEUE FOR

A NEW SPIN ON OUTDOOR FUN

An 18-hole disc golf course opened in November in Silver Spring’s Northwest Branch Recreational Park next to the National Capital Trolley Museum. The course, surrounded by woods, spans a little more than 2 miles and features trolley-themed elements complementing the museum and historic streetcars that can sometimes be seen passing the course. Designed by Andrew Fish, a civil engineer from Baltimore who played on the Disc Golf Pro Tour from 2022 to 2025, the course consists of two nine-hole loops featuring red and blue tee pads. The red tee pads indicate a moderate difficulty level, and the blue pads indicate a harder level. Most holes also have multiple basket locations that are rotated periodically, offering variety to players of all skill levels.

The disc golf course, open daily during daylight hours, is free, but players should bring their own discs. The course is also dog-friendly and has rolling, natural terrain to accommodate wheeled disc golf caddies and strollers. A shaded pavilion, drinking fountain and picnic tables are under construction.

1313 Bonifant Road, Silver Spring, montgomeryparks.org

SWEET SPOT

Sweeteria, a Thai dessert cafe, debuted its downtown Bethesda location in December. Owners Soranan Karikarn and his wife, Ditlada Wichaidit, opened the first Sweeteria in Silver Spring, next to the restaurant they own, Kao Thai.

The Bethesda location, which offers brunch, lunch and dinner on its menu, boasts a 4,000-square-foot space with plenty of indoor seating. Savory Thai-inspired dishes and desserts—panna cottas, croissants, dessert toasts—are served alongside cocktails, beer, wine, and coffee and tea drinks. East Asian flavors include pandan, butterfly pea, coconut milk and lychee, which show up in desserts and drinks. Look for cherry blossom-inspired treats, which may include a lychee panna cotta and a strawberry-matcha croissant. Keep up with seasonal menu items on Sweeteria’s website or check out its artful display case.

5

ALL JAZZED UP

North Bethesda is becoming even more of a destination for music with the introduction of the Strathmore Jazz Orchestra, the performing arts powerhouse’s first in-house jazz ensemble. In the band’s Feb. 13 debut at The Music Center at Strathmore, Kurt Elling, a two-time Grammy-winning vocalist, performed alongside the ensemble.

The 17-piece big band is led by Daniel Jamieson, a composer and conductor who has served as staff arranger and music producer for the U.S. Army Field Band since 2016, according to Strathmore’s website. Jamieson assembled the ensemble, with many of its members hailing from Washington, D.C., and New York City. Some serve in military bands, including alto saxophonist Amanda Gardier of the U.S. Navy Band Commodores jazz ensemble, and Chris Ziemba, pianist for the U.S. Air Force Airmen of Note. Kenny Rittenhouse, director of the Bethesda Blues & Jazz Youth Orchestra, is on trumpet and Leigh Pilzer, a Chevy Chase resident, plays baritone saxophone for the group. The band also includes tenor saxophones, trombones, bass trombone, guitar, bass and drums. The idea is for the ensemble to evolve throughout the seasons and to perform in different configurations with other artists, according to Strathmore.

5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, 301-581-5100, strathmore.org

7525 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, 240-688-0408, sweeteriacafe.com

FUN ALTERNATIVES TO TRIVIA NIGHT

We love a good trivia night, and we also love that local spots are dreaming up ways for their customers to engage in friendly competition without having to recall obscure history. Here are four options.

BRING ON THE BINGO

Earning the chance to yell “bingo” first in an intense round of the classic numbers game is an unmatched thrill. Stella Point Grille in Kensington offers weekly Wednesday bingo at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy half-price wings all evening. Lock in for multiple rounds of bingo for free with the chance to win a gift card to the restaurant. 3739 University Blvd. W., Kensington, 301-946-9400, stellapointgrille.com

FAMILY FEUD FACEOFF

Survey says it’s time for you to grab a team for a round of the TV game show Family Feud at Quincy’s Potomac Bar & Grille. Join Team Feud night on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. for the iconic guessing game and the potential to win gift cards to Quincy’s worth up to $ 50. Make sure you arrive early to join one of the teams and to catch the tail of happy hour specials until 6:30 p.m. 1093 Seven Locks Road, Potomac, 240-500-3010, quincyspotomac.com

NOT-SO-BORED GAMES

Clear Skies Meadery is best known for its onsite conversion of honey into mead, the oldest type of alcohol. For a more contemporary ritual, settle in for a Wednesday tabletop board game night, open to all skill levels. Bring games or select from the meadery’s collection. 15201 Display Court, Rockville, 301-867-8965, clearskiesmeadery.com

ALL EARS FOR MUSIC

Head over to Caddies on Cordell every Thursday to flaunt your knowledge in music bingo. Players can enter for free for a chance to win a $10 gift card to the Bethesda sports bar and restaurant. Once a snippet of music starts—selections range from country hits to ’90s R&B to boy groups—race to mark your X in the square that matches the song’s title and eventually be the first to shout “bingo!” If you aren’t able to figure out the tunes, try again throughout the evening.

4922 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, 301-215-7730, caddiesoncordell.com —Sofia Appolonio

ON A CRUISE in December 2024, Rockville resident Rachel Needle while playing the game. Needle, a loan officer at Atlantic Coast Mortgage in North Bethesda, put together bingo night for 12 family members and friends in March 2025. The event grew, and now around 100 people show up for monthly bingo nights at Pinstripes in North Bethesda. Needle, 50, lines up co-hosts (typically local business leaders) who choose a nonprofit to benefit from that month’s event. The

bingo nights, from 5 to 8 p.m., include a happy hour with an icebreaker, a short talk by someone from that night’s nonprofit, and six games of bingo. Prizes are gift cards for Target and other businesses. The minimum donation of $20 goes to the nonprofit. The next event is March 5. For details on upcoming events, visit Needle’s Instagram @rhneedle or Facebook @rachel.needle75.

—Kathleen Neary

BLADE OF GLORY

A Potomac mom is a fencing world champion

When Potomac resident Kristin Foellmer faced former Olympian Natalya Goncharova of Kazakhstan in a fencing world championship final in November, she was nervous at first. “But then I thought, Why am I nervous? I should just enjoy this wonderful experience and just let’s see what happens,” Foellmer says. “So I went on the offense, and when I didn’t feel a lot of pushback from her, I decided to keep pushing.”

Foellmer, then 50, won the Vet 50 Women’s Epee category at the Veteran Fencing World Championships in Manama, Bahrain, competing against other women ages 50 to 59. Though it was her first time at the worlds for older fencers, she’s long been a standout fencer. She was the high school state champion for four years in Connecticut, a three-time NCAA All-American at Brandeis University (she graduated in three years) and was a member of the U.S. fencing team, representing the U.S. at world championships and on the Fencing World Cup circuit for many years. She competed in the foil category in high school and college, then switched to epee at the DC Fencers Club in Silver Spring soon after joining in 1997. In epee, “all of the complicated rules of foil go out the window … basically whoever hits first gets the touch” or point, she says.

DC Fencers Club has trained four other veteran world champions:

• Kaz Campe, Vet 60 Men’s Individual Epee, 1998

• Lisa Dobloug, Vet 60 Women’s Individual Epee, 2005

• Valerie Asher, Veteran Team Women’s Epee, 2022

• Joe Deucher, Veteran Team Men’s Epee, 2023

Foellmer took about 10 years off from fencing after her son, now 14, was born. She works as an interior designer and produces films for German public television (she was born in Germany), training at the fencing club a few mornings and evenings each week.

Fencing makes her feel young, Foellmer says, and winning worlds “felt like a homecoming. All these years that I have invested in doing something that I just really love, it felt really wonderful.”

—K.N.

2.92

THE AVERAGE TIME IT took 12-year-old Fiona Bao of Rockville to solve the Rubik’s Clock, one of 17 puzzles recognized by the World Cube Association (WCA), at a national competition for twisty puzzle solvers in November 2025 in Providence, Rhode Island. On five attempts, the fastest and slowest times are eliminated and the average is calculated with the three remaining times.

A seventh grader at Robert Frost Middle School in Rockville, Fiona was the fastest solver in the clock puzzle category and was the only female among more than 80 competitors, known as “speedcubers,” in the two-day event. Fiona says the clock puzzle involves pressing little pins and turning dials to get all arrows pointing toward 12 o’clock. In July, she won first place among female competitors for the clock puzzle at the Rubik’s WCA World Championship 2025 in Seattle.

According to CubingUSA, a website that breaks down WCA stats, Fiona holds several Maryland records among all genders.

“Hopefully I’m an inspiration to females all around the world to cube and learn how to solve one because there aren’t many female cubers in the cubing world,” Fiona says. “I want more to compete.”

—K.N.

ROBOT REVOLUTION

Spend time with these human replacements

Though the county scrapped its plans for Parker, the Silver Spring parking garage security robot, there are still places where you can find helpful machines hard at work. While it may be far off before we have robots taking over in our homes (like Rosey, the housekeeper on The Jetsons), here are three spots where you can interact now with a working robot.

—K.N.

BELLA AT NAN XIANG SOUP DUMPLINGS

AESCAPE AT PRIVAI SPA AND SALON AT PIKE & ROSE

Privai Spa and Salon at Pike & Rose offers robotic massages from the company Aescape in one of its rooms. Slip into custom Aescape clothing (a top and bottom that provide needed friction), get face down for a view of an interactive touch screen for customizing pressure, focus areas and more, and let the robot arms that are attached to the massage bed get to work. Sessions are from 15 to 60 minutes. 934 Rose Ave. (Pike & Rose), North Bethesda, 301-880-3313, pikeandrose.privaispas.com

The Dirt on Grass

Pro tips to get your lawn looking sharp

WITH 21 NATURAL TURF FIELDS to manage, Larson

Storer, director of grounds and environmental management at the Maryland SoccerPlex in Germantown, and his team are no strangers to grass care.

“Spring can be a very difficult time to manage your turfgrass,” Storer says. “The weather is unpredictable, and the spring green-up of your lawn may not happen as soon as you would like. Just remember to focus on the things it needs to live and grow: sunlight, water and air.”

The delivery robot at Nan Xiang Soup Dumplings at Westfield Montgomery mall is dubbed Bella by staff. It plays music and delivers nonliquid dishes that servers then place on the tables for diners. 7101 Democracy Blvd., (Westfield Montgomery mall), Bethesda, 301-456-6888, nanxiangxiaolongbao.com

KUR-B THE KURABOT AT KURA REVOLVING SUSHI BAR

There are two robots at the Rockville outpost of this national chain. The robots at all locations are called Kur-B the KuraBot. They roll up tableside to deliver fountain drinks. 12266 Rockville Pike (Federal Plaza), Rockville, 240-221-1224, kurasushi.com

Storer suggests clearing debris that may be left over from the fall and winter, including leaves and branches, to make sure the grass is getting enough sunlight.

Homeowners can plant grass seed along with a quality starter fertilizer in the spring, especially on thin or bare areas. “This is the time to get your irrigation system valved back up,” Storer says.

Though aeration is commonly done in the fall, Storer says it can be helpful any time of year to reduce compaction in the soil and get oxygen and nutrients to the grass’ roots.

—Jillian Lynch

$13.26 MILLION

THE FINAL SALE PRICE, including fees, of Dan and Tanya Snyder’s former Potomac home at auction on Dec. 18, 2025. The former Washington Commanders owner and his wife had listed the property on Feb. 6, 2023, for $49 million. In March 2024, the Snyders donated the house to the American Cancer Society, which received the proceeds of the recent sale. The bidding opened at $11 million and the house sold to an anonymous bidder, according to Concierge Auctions, which handled the auction.

TRUE CRIME TALES

The county’s cold cases are no match for these detectives

At 13½ acres, the property at 11900 River Road includes a main house modeled after a French chateau, a guesthouse and a separate building for staff. The living space across all the buildings totals 40,000 square feet. The listing agents were Cara Pearlman and Han Peruzzi of Compass.

—J.L.

Bump Into Pro Athletes

WNBA PLAYER JEWELL LOYD and tennis stars Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf have reached the top level of their sports. They also happen to be passionate about another sport: pickleball.

Loyd, Agassi and Graf have all made appearances at Joola, a store that sells pickleball equipment at Pike & Rose. Joola, a table tennis and pickleball brand, moved its U.S. headquarters to North Bethesda in March 2025.

Ben Johns, a professional pickleball player who was born and raised in Montgomery County, was the first notable athlete to visit the shop. He was on hand for the grand opening in November.

Since then, a constellation of Professional Pickleball Association stars has stopped by to sign paddles and greet fans, including Tyson McGuffin, Kate Fahey, Brooke Buckner and Federico Staksrud.

—Amy

Orndorff

After Montgomery County police solved the 2001 murder of Chevy Chase mom Leslie Preer (her daughter’s ex-boyfriend was sentenced last August to 22 years in prison), we were fascinated to learn about the work Detectives Alyson Dupouy (pictured above left) and Tara Augustin (above right) did on that cold case and others. Dateline and 20/20 were intrigued, too, with each show airing an episode on the Preer case in 2025 that prominently featured the detectives. We wanted to know what it was like to be part of a true crime show, so we emailed the detectives. Augustin, who’s been on the job for 19 years, says, “It was a great feeling to be recognized for our hard work. It was an experience I’ll never forget. It feels surreal now to think about it. I keep thinking, Was it a dream? Did that really happen?” For Dupouy, who’s been on the job for 22 years, “The process of making a true crime show was pretty cool to be a part of. It was nerve-racking, but the crew of both shows made us feel at ease and joked around a lot. I had no idea that filming was that exhausting. I had to walk through the room 12 times pushing the same cart just to get a three-second clip.”

Neither detective watches much true crime TV because they say it’s too close to what they do at work. Dupouy does like British true crime and grew up watching The X Files—the show’s Dana Scully was the reason she went into law enforcement. She likes watching RuPaul’s Drag Race, while Augustin’s favorites are the Real Housewives franchise and the show Traitors. When they aren’t busy cracking cold cases, the two focus on finding missing people from all over the county.

—K.N.

6 QUESTIONS FOR ZAINAB AZIZI

Growing up in Montgomery County, Zainab Azizi fell in love with horror films at the age of 6. “We had a relative who got rid of a bunch of VHS tapes, and it was a bunch of B horror films,” says Azizi, who lived in Gaithersburg and later Boyds. The films included The Evil Dead, directed by Sam Raimi, and Peter Jackson’s Dead Alive

Despite that early love of movies, Azizi, 37, didn’t set out to work as a film producer. She graduated in 2007 from Northwest High School in Germantown and was named “most likely to be famous,” she says. After graduating from the University of Maryland with a degree in sociology, she moved to Los Angeles with a plan to work in marketing but soon learned about the film business while on a job interview. She took a position in the mail room of a talent agency and worked her way up in the company, including being part of a project with Raimi. That led to Azizi’s current role as president of Raimi Productions, where she has been a producer of six films. The latest, Send Help, a survival thriller starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O’Brien as co-workers stranded on a deserted island, was released in theaters in January.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

HOW DID SEND HELP COME ABOUT?

I was a fan of the writers, [Damian Shannon and Mark Swift]. I’ve read their material before, and I reached out to set a meeting with them, and we just hit it off. They’re two great regular dads who have a lot of movie ideas. I loved the idea of our character, Linda Liddle, an underdog that you root for. We developed it into a full feature pitch. We brought it to Sam [Raimi], hoping he would say, yes, let’s produce this. But he loved it so much that he even said yes to directing. And then we took it out, and it was a hot sale.

DO YOU HAVE ANY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES FROM SHOOTING PARTS OF SEND HELP IN THAILAND?

Sam and I have never shot on a beach before, so we learned so much. For example, when you have actors speaking on the beach, you have to think about the sounds of the waves, and then the sounds of the jungle. And the cicadas were unreal. And then, because they’re on a deserted island in the film, we had to hire a bunch of, I call them the sand sweepers. They’d always be sweeping the sand to get rid of footprints.

We also shot on a coconut farm. Before production, I learned that a lot of deaths are actually from coconuts falling, so we had to make sure that the farm cleared all of the coconuts. And then you have the heat. You have to make sure that everyone’s hydrated, safe, and our actors, in the film they’re suffering from this beach. They’re sunburned, they have bug bites. We had to have a great makeup team that allowed these looks without them actually ever getting burnt or bitten.

IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A DESERTED ISLAND, WHO WOULD YOU WANT TO BE STRANDED WITH?

Our survivalist, Ky Furneaux, who was with us in preproduction and production, taught us everything. She’s the real deal. It would be her because we would make it.

DO YOU COME BACK TO MONTGOMERY COUNTY?

I came back for Christmas. I have family here, and my boyfriend’s also from Bethesda. We spent Christmas together in Bethesda. We actually met in LA, and it was a really big coincidence, and it worked out perfectly. I love Clyde’s. I love Silver Diner. I think growing up, getting a shake at Silver Diner was always a staple, and going to the theaters.

IS THERE ONE PROJECT THAT YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF?

[Send Help] because it’s taken the longest

to get made and it’s with Sam Raimi as a director, who I’ve been working with, and I love the studio, [20th Century Studios]. I got to work with Rachel McAdams, who was a dream come true, and she’s so sweet, equally as sweet as she is in her characters in movies as she is in person. Ultimately it’s a female empowerment story. I really love that, and it’s a story about rooting for the underdog. I’ve worked in a corporate setting and I love the message that it sends, which is everyone’s fighting a battle, just be kind to everyone at work. But obviously it’s a movie, so we have a lot of fun and craziness with it.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO SHARE?

I wish that Maryland would have a better tax credit for film productions. I think Maryland is such a booming state, and I’m so proud to be from Maryland, and I wish there was a better tax incentive and programs to teach young filmmakers. I’ve only shot two movies out of six movies in the U.S. and I know the government’s trying to have more films made in the U.S., but I wish Maryland would consider it, too.

GOOD COUNSEL GOOD COUNSEL GOOD OUNSEL GOOD EL GOOD EL Congratulations, Pietra!

Buh-bye, Bullies

A

new novel for middle graders includes relatable experiences

WHILE GROWING UP IN Westchester County, New York, Rin-rin Yu says she wished there were more books with American-born Asian characters. So the 49-year-old Bethesda communications strategist eventually decided to write a novel for middle grade readers. Goodbye, French Fry (Nancy Paulsen Books, February 2026) features a fifth grade girl, Ping-Ping. Just like the book’s protagonist, Yu was born in the United States to Chinese parents. She often had her name mispronounced and was called nicknames. With feedback from her daughter, Feilin, 14, and son, Zylan, 11, Yu says she crafted the book to be lighthearted and relatable. “I want readers to remember it’s OK to just be kids,” she says. “Sometimes the biggest accomplishments may not be the ones you notice right away or come in the form of an award. ... Like the way I confronted my bully who called me ‘french fry’—and [Ping-Ping] does in the book—it was a turning point that gave her confidence.”

Tech Tome

A Bethesda writer on reading and AI

AS A LINGUISTICS PROFESSOR at American University in Washington, D.C., for more than 30 years, Naomi Baron has researched and written about technology’s impact on the way people communicate. The 79-yearold retired in 2018, but says she feels compelled as a “public scholar” to write for a general audience about the problem of society’s growing reliance on artificial intelligence. In Reader Bot: What Happens When AI Reads and Why It Matters (Stanford University Press, January 2026), Baron details the many benefits of reading ourselves. “It helps motivate you to have faith in yourself to keep going,” she says. “If you stick with it, then it may be well worth it. That’s true of so many lessons in life.” The Bethesda writer hopes her book will encourage people to think critically about using AI: “You make your own choices,” she says. “Big tech does not have the right or necessity to make them for you.”

—C.A.

—Caralee Adams

More Recent Books by Local Authors

The Mighty Macy (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, February 2026) by Chevy Chase resident Kwame Alexander

The Cabbage Seed’s Colossal Secret (Tilbury House Publishers, February 2026) by Rockville resident Karen Greenwald

Storm at the Capitol: An Oral History of January 6th (PublicAffairs, January 2026) by Bethesda resident Mary Clare Jalonick

Watch Us Fall (Simon & Schuster, December 2025) by Olney resident Christina Kovac

READING LIST

These were the top circulating books in the Montgomery County Public Libraries system in December 2025.

Fiction

1 Great Big Beautiful Life

Emily Henry

2 The Correspondent

Virginia Evans

3 Atmosphere: A Love Story

Taylor Jenkins Reid

4 The Housemaid

Freida McFadden

5 The Women

Kristin Hannah

6 The Impossible Fortune Richard Osman

7 My Friends Fredrik Backman

8 Heated Rivalry

Rachel Reid

9 The Secret of Secrets

Dan Brown

10 Broken Country

Clare Leslie Hall

Nonfiction

1 107 Days

Kamala Harris

2 Nobody’s Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice

Virginia Roberts Giuffre

3 The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness

Jonathan Haidt

4 1929: Inside the Greatest Crash in Wall Street History—and How It Shattered a Nation

Andrew Ross Sorkin

5 Abundance

Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson

6 Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism

Sarah Wynn-Williams

7 Everything Is Tuberculosis: The History and Persistence of Our Deadliest Infection

John Green

8 Educated: A Memoir

Tara Westover

9 The Let Them Theory

Mel Robbins

10 The House of My Mother: A Daughter’s Quest for Freedom

Shari Franke

Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield offers clients throughout MD, VA, DC, and even internationally the benefit of more than 90 years of combined experience in family law. We have extensive experience with numerous circumstances that can complicate family disputes, and we provide a wide range of dispute resolution options that allow us to customize our approach to each client’s unique needs.

FEELING HOT, HOT, HOT (AND COLD, COLD, COLD)

A

North Bethesda couple on their contrast therapy business

Kevin and Brenna Dorsey were already fans of saunas and cold plunges when they learned about SweatHouz, a company headquartered in Atlanta that offers cold and heat therapy in spalike spaces. The couple loved SweatHouz’s model of contrast therapy in private rooms and opened a franchise in April 2025 in North Bethesda. Their Pike & Rose location has 11 suites: 10 are outfitted with a cold plunge tub, an infrared sauna (light waves heat the body directly and at a lower temperature than a traditional sauna) and a vitamin C shower, and one suite offers those plus a Spectra red light therapy bed. Visitors can decide how to break up their 60-minute session. “What we recommend is 30 to 45 minutes infrared sauna, three to five minutes in the cold plunge,” Brenna says. “The infrared sauna is very different than a traditional sauna that you may use at your gym. … [It can be] more tolerable.”

The Dorseys, who live with their two young daughters and infant son in North Bethesda, grew up in Maryland. Brenna graduated from Clarksburg High School and Kevin lived in Prince George’s County. They met in geogra-

phy class at the University of Maryland, where Kevin played football for four years. After brief stays with the NFL’s Green Bay Packers and New England Patriots, he took a job with the federal government, where he still works.

“From years banging into another human being constantly, you have residual pain. Sometimes you just wake up being like, ‘Hey, I don’t know why my knee hurts, but my knee hurts today,’ ” says Kevin, who has personally seen the benefits of contrast therapy. “I got to a point where that stopped occurring, and now it doesn’t happen at all.”

Customers range from teens to older adults. “We have parents that bring their 14-year-olds that are playing club lacrosse and need their recovery. We have members that are in their 70s that come in for inflammation benefits for arthritis, or for Lyme disease detox,” Brenna says. Some customers don’t have a fitness routine. “They’re just here for the mental health benefits.”

The Dorseys hope to open more SweatHouz locations in the county in coming years.

—K.N.

Brenna Dorsey, 32

• Always cold, looking for a way to warm up

• Ideal vacation: “Always a beach”

• First tried infrared sauna after the birth of her first daughter

• Loves infrared sauna treatment (140 to 170 degrees)

Kevin Dorsey, 36

• Doesn’t mind the cold and seeks out ways to cool off

• Ideal vacation: “Skiing”

• First tried cold plunge as a high school football player

• Loves cold plunges (around 50 degrees)

The Cosmos Group

The Cosmos Group, led by Daniel Llerena, is a premier real estate team serving Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Inspired by Daniel’s philosophy of “reaching for the stars,” the team is driven by a passion for excellence, innovation, and achieving the extraordinary. Guided by Daniel’s wealth of experience, spanning over a decade in banking, mortgages, and real estate, The Cosmos Group offers unparalleled expertise in navigating complex transactions. The team’s commitment to excellence extends beyond buying and selling. They provide a one-stop shop for clients, offering services such as staging, renovations, marketing, and project management. With a focus on quality, reliability, and seamless communication, The Cosmos Group ensures every client experience is efficient, personalized, and rewarding. Their mission is not only to help clients achieve their real estate goals but to build lasting relationships that reflect their dedication to going above and beyond.

At The Cosmos Group, the sky is never the limit, it’s just the beginning.

Jennifer Chow Group

JENCHOWGROUP.COM

301.213.5364 | JENNIFER.CHOW@RLAHRE.COM

Jennifer Chow is a highly experienced team leader at RLAH @properties, specializing in real estate in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area, particularly in Montgomery County, MD. Known for her extensive knowledge, strong work ethic, and exceptional client service, she consistently ranks among the top Real Estate Agent in her area. Jennifer's deep roots in the community, coupled with her professionalism and integrity, have resulted in a loyal client base and numerous referrals. She actively participates in professional and volunteer boards to stay abreast of industry trends and make a positive impact on her community.

Experience exceptional real estate service with Jennifer Chow Group, leaders in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area. With unrivaled expertise, dedication, and a deep understanding of the market, every client receives top-tier representation for their buying and selling needs.

Wagner Home Group

David Wagner & Ellen Coleman bring a thoughtful, client-first approach to real estate at RLAH @properties, combining market expertise, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to service. Together, they guide buyers and sellers through every stage of the real estate process with clarity, confidence, and care. Known for their strong communication and collaborative style, David and Ellen prioritize understanding each client’s goals and tailoring strategies that deliver results. They leverage RLAH @properties’ cutting-edge marketing, data-driven tools, and expansive network to ensure every transaction is handled with precision and professionalism. Whether helping first-time buyers find the perfect home or assisting sellers in maximizing value, David and Ellen are trusted advisors who believe real estate is about more than transactions, it’s about relationships, trust, and long-term success.

Decisive leader, a bit irreverent, extraordinary marketer, inventive sales strategies and huge community service supporter. Stacy approaches each client with dedicated focus and a commitment to honest, straight-forward communication. Longterm view on developing cooperative relationships that are beyond a transactional-approach to real estate.

Stacy is the realtor for all your life-stages. Professional realtor since 2002; she's seen the market go up & come down and isn't phased by the phases; she says "bring on the challenges- nothing is out of reach"!

Stacy loves being the solution provider for all her buyer & seller clients; she will do so with gusto & fair. Stacy's previous 18 year-career was in complex international defense technology. Stacy is a Real Estate Mentor and leads a monthly real estate training class.

She is the former Manager Georgetown Long & Foster office; Stacy is also Mom to Laura & Philip, married Ed Rosen, house leader of dogs, cats and dragons! Scuba diver, skier, baker, biker, hiker and avid reader.

Real estate is more than a career for Anh—it is a passion rooted in helping clients make informed, confident decisions. With over 25 years of experience in commercial and residential real estate, she serves as a trusted advisor to buyers, sellers, and investors throughout Maryland. Anh has successfully guided hundreds of clients through some of the most significant financial decisions of their lives, always advocating for

Focused on helping clients build long-term wealth through real estate ownership, Anh partners closely with her clients to navigate current market conditions and protect their assets. Her experience allows her to anticipate challenges and resolve issues efficiently, recognizing that no

A proud graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, Anh is a formerly licensed CPA in both California and Maryland and a mother of three. Her background in commercial real estate lending and tax consulting provides a strong financial and analytical foundation, offering clients a

202.617.0839 | ADRIANA.RUAN@RLAHRE.COM

With over 11 years of experience in the dynamic world of real estate, Adriana delivers an elevated, highly personalized approach to buying and selling exceptional homes. Renowned for her discretion, strategic perspective and white-glove service, she curates a seamless experience, deeply dedicated to each client’s unique needs, and guiding everyone from first-time homebuyers to seasoned sellers with confidence, clarity, and exceptional results. Adriana believes the most successful real estate experiences are built on trust and longevity. More than an agent, she serves as a trusted advisor and friend, committed to understanding her clients’ evolving needs and building relationships that last long after the keys are handed over.

Shaped by years of relocating early in life, Adriana brings an intuitive understanding of the power of place and the importance of home.  A Maryland resident since 1996, she transitioned from international development into real estate, where her deep expertise in the Maryland and D.C. area Markets, combined with a discerning eye for architecture and design, allows her to deliver a seamless, elevated experience from first conversation to closing.

Proudly recognizes our Bethesda Magazine Top Producer honorees.

BETS BEST

BEST

March/April

Music

March 4

Sons of Mystro

Brothers Umoja and Malcolm McNeish make up this violin duo, blending classical music with hip-hop, reggae, rock and pop. Hear their unique arrangements of popular tunes and original songs during their performance at the Robert E. Parilla Performing Arts Center in Rockville. montgomerycollege.edu/pac

March 7

American Patchwork Quartet

Led by Grammy Award-winning guitarist and singer Clay Ross, this group combines American folk music with jazz rhythms and Indian classical vocals. Catch their appearance at Germantown’s BlackRock Center for the Arts blackrockcenter.org/events-performances

March 13

Mireya Ramos & The Poor Choices

Drawing from musical traditions along the U.S.-Mexico border, the Grammy Awardwinning mariachi singer teams up with Kansas City, Missouri, country band The Poor Choices for a concert at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center in Silver Spring that blends genres including country, ranchera, bluegrass, jazz and Tejano. mcblogs.montgomerycollege.edu/cac

March 14, April 17, May 21

Acoustics and Ales

March 19

Ravi Shankar Ensemble

A sitar player and composer, the late Shankar had a role in popularizing classical Indian music throughout the world. His collaborations with musicians including George Harrison of the Beatles and Philip Glass introduced Indian music to new audiences. This performance at The Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, curated by his wife and daughter, features a selection of Shankar’s music and visual elements from his archives. strathmore.org

March 24

Diana Krall

who has won three Grammy Awards, returns to The Music Center at Strathmore after her 2024 performance paying homage to writer James Baldwin. strathmore.org

April 9

Angélique Kidjo

Expect intimate personal renditions of jazz standards and classic pop songs when the two-time Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist and singer performs at The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

March 27

Meshell Ndegeocello

The Washington, D.C.-raised musician and songwriter is known for her bass-driven music, blending soul, jazz, R&B and rock. She scored a Billboard hit with her 1994 duet “Wild Night” with John Mellencamp, and also has collaborated with the Rolling Stones, Madonna and Alanis Morissette. The bassist,

Park hangouts get an upgrade with live music, local beer and food from regional small businesses at this series from Montgomery Parks. Irish Latin band La Unica kicks it off at North Four Corners Local Park in Silver Spring (March 14), followed by the acoustic duo of Emily & Jorge at Germantown Town Center Urban Park (April 17) and blues rock singer-songwriter Ted Garber at Flower Avenue Urban Park in Silver Spring (May 21). montgomeryparks.org

A five-time Grammy Award winner, the West African singer blends African rhythms with jazz, funk, pop, R&B and contemporary dance music. She has collaborated with musicians including Bono, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Yo-Yo Ma and Branford Marsalis. See the iconic performer at The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

April 15

Hayley Williams

Though she’s best known as the singer from the rock band Paramore, the threetime Grammy winner has also released several albums of her own. This year, she’s embarking on her first solo tour and will make a stop at The Fillmore Silver Spring fillmoresilverspring.com

Film

March 14

Stand By Me

Watch the coming-of-age classic directed by the late Rob Reiner, then listen to a discussion with stars from the movie. Based on a Stephen King novella, the film tells the tale of four boys who go on a journey in search of a missing boy’s body. Actors Corey Feldman, Jerry O’Connell and Wil Wheaton, who played the friends (along with the late River Phoenix), will discuss their experience making the movie during a Q&A at The Music Center at Strathmore standbymelive.com

April 10-11

Bethesda Film Fest

See five short documentaries on a variety of topics made by residents of Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia at this annual film festival. Screenings are at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema and are followed by a Q&A with filmmakers. bethesda.org/bethesda-film-fest

April 10-12

Gaithersburg Film Festival

This film festival aims to raise awareness of cultural, social and environmental issues by showcasing films of various styles and genres. Reflecting Gaithersburg’s status as one of the nation’s most diverse cities, it’s meant to highlight a variety of voices and perspectives. It takes place at the Arts Barn in Gaithersburg. gaithersburgmd.gov

Theater

Through March 8

The Elixir of Love

Inspired by the tale of Tristan and Isolde, shy Nemorino buys a love potion in an attempt to win the affection of beautiful Adina in this comedic Italian opera presented by Victorian Lyric Opera Company at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre in Rockville. vloc.org

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March 13-15

Community Stories Film Festival Docs in Progress, an organization that offers programs for local filmmakers, presents this annual festival, which features documentaries about people, places, history and current events in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. Filmmakers will be on hand for movie screenings, Q&As and discussions at venues in Silver Spring. docsinprogress.org

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March/April

March 21-April 19

Good Morning, Good Night

This new production at Bethesda’s Imagination Stage features multisensory storytelling and audience participation. Children can watch and “help” characters Winnie and August work the “day shift” by waking birds, putting dew in the grass and baking fresh clouds, and the “night shift” by releasing fireflies, shining the stars and banishing nightmares. Recommended for ages 1 to 4. imaginationstage.org

March 27-29

At the End of the World

This show, commissioned for and performed by the Round House Theatre Teen Performance Company at Round House Theatre in Bethesda, explores the fears, hopes and wishes of a group of teenagers in the aftermath of an apocalypse. roundhousetheatre.org

April 22-May 24

I & You: The Musical

Based on the play by Lauren Gunderson, this musical version makes its world premiere at Olney Theatre Center. Chronically sick high school student Caroline is suspicious when Anthony shows up at her house with a homework assignment about Walt Whitman that they’re supposed to do together. As they explore Whitman’s poetry, they discover the mystery that unites them. olneytheatre.org

April 24-May 24

Aesop’s Fables

A group of traveling storytellers recounts five classic fables in this adaptation recommended for age 3 and older at Adventure Theatre-MTC in Glen Echo. adventuretheatre-mtc.org

Comedy/Variety

March 3

Crowd Pleaser: An Evening with Yotam Ottolenghi

The James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur and cookbook author comes

March 12-15

Sprung! Comedy Festival

Hear jokes from lawyers, scientists, veterans and others at this multiday comedy festival presented by Improbable Comedy at the Silver Spring Black Box Theatre. The festival features 10 comedy shows, including Law & Order Comedy, Science Comedy, and Squeak, a “clean” comedy show. There are also classes on improv, storytelling, stand-up and production. improbablecomedy.com

to The Music Center at Strathmore to share stories and recipes. He’ll also cook onstage and answer questions from the audience. strathmore.org

Community Events

March 14

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Dancers, marching bands, fire trucks, horses and school and community groups will parade through the streets at Rio shopping center in Gaithersburg in honor of St. Patrick’s Day. gaithersburgmd.gov

March 20-21

MoComCon

Celebrate comics, graphic novels and the fan communities that love them at this free two-day event at the Germantown Library and the BlackRock Center for the Arts. The festival features activities for kids and families as well as teens and adults, including art and costume contests. montgomerycountymd.gov/library/

March 28-April 26

Bunnyland and Spring Festival

Hunt for eggs, play on giant slides, bounce on jump pads, go on a hayride and visit animals at Butler’s Orchard in Germantown during Bunnyland through April 12. The seasonal celebrations continue with the Spring Festival, which runs through April 26 and features many of the same attractions without the bunny theme. butlersorchard.com

April

26

Rockville Science Day

See robots and rocket launches, meet reptiles and learn about chemistry and medicine at this free event at the Rockville campus of Montgomery College. Expect more than 120 exhibitors at the STEM festival. rockvillesciencecenter.org

—Stephanie Siegel Burke

At Jenn Smira & Co., we are driven by a commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients. With over $2 billion in lifetime sales, we offer a full-service real estate experience, from strategy and marketing to negotiation and transaction management, serving clients across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with expertise and care.

5-STAR CLIENT REVIEW:

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BANTER COLLECTORS

Jeff Rule holding an Apple Macintosh Performa 275 from 1993

Big on Macs

A collection of Apple artifacts resides in Chevy Chase

BY KATHLEEN NEARY

Jeff Rule, 57, is in his Chevy Chase basement tapping a computer keyboard to pull up a video game. Next to the machine sit two floppy disk drives that take those old 5¼-inch disks. He selects Archon, a game that came out more than 40 years ago. The time warp to 1983 in the room isn’t limited to this Apple IIe computer, though it’s the most treasured machine in his collection of Apple products. Rule’s dad bought it for him for Christmas that year.

“[A teacher at school] talked to my dad about it, said I was super interested in computers,” says Rule, who was 14 and living in Fairfax, Virginia, when he received the gift. “The day I got it I was super excited because I knew a bunch of stuff. I actually copied a bunch of software off the school computers and brought them home.”

Also in his basement is the Macintosh SE he took to Virginia Tech, where he majored in biochemistry before deciding he would rather work with computers. Rule retired last August from a career that included jobs at the Discovery Channel, National Geo-

graphic and Capital One, working in web development and, most recently, AI and machine learning.

His collection of 32 retro computers isn’t a graveyard—the machines work. “Call it quality. The Apple computers almost never die,” he says. He keeps about nine on display—and in use, mainly for gaming—in his basement at a time. “My wife [Allison] calls it ‘The Apple Store.’ She comes down and she’s like, ‘Hey, you sold anything today?’ ” he says. “I think as long as I keep it presentable, she thinks it’s an attractive display.”

Looking for a hobby during the COVID19 pandemic, Rule started shopping on Craigslist to build his collection. By then, he already owned a handful of older Apple computers, including a black Macintosh TV that he bought from another enthusiast in Pennsylvania. That machine was marketed for dorm rooms. “You could plug a cable feed into the back of it so you could watch picture-in-picture cable at the same time you were doing your regular computing,” Rule says. Apple sold fewer than 10,000 of them, he says, at a price he couldn’t afford at the time.

“I’m a much bigger fan of, let’s say, the underdog retro Apple, than the current Apple. The current Apple is kind of hard to root for. They’re kind of monopolistic,” Rule says. “But generally, anything from that six-color logo time frame [1977 to 1998] is the time frame that I’m mainly interested in.”

His collection also includes games and multimedia software in original boxes. Other software boxes are re-creations he made by using Adobe Photoshop to copy the packaging and then attaching a large printout to a plain box. He’s also come up with his own containers for products that Apple tried to launch but never hit the shelves. “Apple was always trying stuff and failing at it, or doing things way too early,” he says. “They left these cool kind of artifacts.”

One box he created is for an Apple TV set-top box that debuted in 1994 as a limited trial and never took off. Another is for Apple’s browser Cyberdog, which the company put out in the late ’90s and also wasn’t successful (the fake box holds a

real developer’s manual and CD-ROM for the beta version that Apple released). Rule recently used AI to enhance blurry images he found online and produce a box for Knowledge Navigator, a demo by Apple in 1987 that had an AI voice agent that answered your questions (like an early version of Siri).

Mostly, Rule has spent about $50 to $300 to acquire each computer. About a year and a half ago he splurged on a $500 Apple II from 1977, which was the first mass produced computer by Apple, at an online auction site. He says it’s one of the first 1,000 they ever produced. It was in bad shape, so he fixed it up by bleaching the plastic to look more like the original color, cleaning the floppy disk drives and the computer chips, and replacing the power supply.

[Apple products] and also re-creating,” he says. He displays an original joystick from his 1983 Apple IIe next to a recently 3D printed copy that looks identical. Rule bought that second joystick, but he also uses a 3D printer to create replacement parts for restoring nonworking machines.

memorate some of the patents he holds. He says he has about 310 patents from his career, many for very technical things around machine learning.

He also owns an Apple logo jacket from the 1990s. It’s in the style of a varsity letter jacket. His two daughters think it’s cool because it’s similar to one worn by the musical artist Drake, Rule says.

“CALL IT QUALITY. THE APPLE COMPUTERS ALMOST NEVER DIE.” –Jeff Rule

“There’s a pretty robust ecosystem out there of people building new things for

Rule says he designed his personal mini-museum to have an Apple Store aesthetic, using white Ikea shelves, framed printouts of Macintosh icons and a neon Apple logo. On one wall is a colorful display of translucent cubes given to him when he worked at Capital One to com-

“I’ve got all the machines that I really wanted when I was a kid at this point,” he says, pointing to a PowerBook 100 and PowerBook 180, which were among the first laptops that Apple produced. He keeps a 1984 Apple Lisa 2 in his storage room because it’s so big. One piece still on his wish list: an original 1983 Lisa, the computer that preceded the Macintosh.

Rule is organizing meetups—some will be computer repair sessions—with other retro computing enthusiasts in the area.

Gaps to Grants

How a Bethesda nonprofit helps children in foster care access essentials and

more

BY MARIAM BUKHARI

Sabrina Hayes was 18 years old and in her first semester at Montgomery College when she needed help paying for books and parking. Having bounced around in the foster care system since the age of 7 and in independent living at the time, her resources and her support system were limited.

“I could barely afford to eat,” Hayes, now 28, says.

That’s when 4 Montgomery’s Kids stepped in. Leslie Shedlin, one of the founders of the Bethesda-based nonprofit that aids children in foster care and others who have recently aged out of foster care, met with Hayes, and 4 Montgomery’s Kids paid for her books and parking passes for her first two semesters.

“I wasn’t sure what I’d do when I aged out. … My social worker was great, but obviously she had [office] hours, and 4 Montgomery’s Kids, I could call them for anything at any time,” Hayes says.

The organization was founded in 2014 following a conversation between Shedlin, a former child abuse litigator, and Agnes Leshner, who was then the director of Mont-

gomery County Child Welfare Services, about the service gap in the child welfare system. Children in foster care are often forced to go without essential needs due to a lack of government funding.

Shedlin partnered with Ronna Cook, a child welfare researcher, to file for 501(c) (3) status for the group. When Leshner retired from her county position, she joined Shedlin and Cook on the board of 4 Montgomery’s Kids, and years later recruited Cynde Burgess, a retired child welfare services supervisor, and Alan Kraut, a developmental psychologist.

“Licensed foster parents receive a monthly board rate to provide for the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter,” Burgess says via email. “Even with that, the family’s budget may not allow for some of the extras that our children need and desire. Like their typical peers, they want to play on sports teams, take dance or music lessons.”

Requests are usually submitted to 4 Montgomery’s Kids by social workers,

children in foster care, or their foster families through a form explaining the circumstances, Shedlin says. The board then reviews and votes on each request. Once two board members vote in favor, the request is approved and the item is delivered to the child or the social worker.

During its first year, the organization’s budget was fully board-funded, and they helped 35 children, Shedlin says. As the organization has grown, board members have raised funds by using their expertise to apply for grants and to advocate for donations while also making contributions themselves.

Shedlin says the nonprofit’s efforts have enabled it to fulfill requests for nearly 2,700 children and to provide scholarships to children in foster care who are graduating from Montgomery County public schools and pursuing higher education.

The requests include everything from gifts for children who are celebrating milestones, to funds for families to enjoy activities together to facilitate reunification, and

funds to cover first and last month’s rent to help young adults aging out of foster care. The organization works to respond to all requests within 24 hours, so no child or young adult is left waiting, says Shedlin.

In 2024, 4 Montgomery’s Kids began

“I WOULDN’T HAVE MADE IT THROUGH SCHOOL TO GET A GOOD JOB WITHOUT THEIR HELP.”

–Sabrina Hayes

developing and implementing a guaranteed income program called Boost based on advice from the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Guaranteed Income Research and insights from places such as Los Angeles County, which has a govern-

ment-funded guaranteed income program to support young adults aging out of the foster care system.

The Boost program is funded by grants and donations as well as contributions from the board members. It guarantees young adults who age out of Montgomery County’s foster care system and who are referred by their former social workers $600 each month during their first year transitioning out of foster care, Shedlin says.

These young adults are paired with mentors through a partnership with the Rockville-based nonprofit Empowering the Ages, ensuring they receive support with housing, job searches, navigating the medical system and other tasks they may otherwise face alone.

4 Montgomery’s Kids continued to help Hayes, who now lives in Bethesda and works as a federal probation officer, as she navigated college and young adulthood.

“I wouldn’t have made it through school to get a good job without their help,” Hayes says. “I wouldn’t be where I’m at today.”

Clarity. Strategy. Strength.

Advocacy.

Empathy. Experience.

Amanda Gilbert and Tracy Phillips bring clear, compassionate communication and practical conflict-resolution skills to even the most complex family law matters in Maryland and Washington, DC. Drawing on deep experience in negotiation, mediation, litigation and Collaborative Practice, they thoughtfully guide individuals and families through divorce and custody disputes, child support matters, protective orders, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, assisted reproductive technology and adoption.

Announcing our new Family Law Practice

Amanda W. Gilbert and Tracy E. Phillips bring a solutionfocused, strategic, and compassionate approach to complex family law matters in D.C. and Maryland. Utilizing their skills in negotiation, mediation, litigation, and Collaborative Practice, they guide their clients in addressing divorce, custody, and support issues, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, assisted reproductive technology, and adoption.

When the path forward feels overwhelming, Amanda and Tracy provide steady guidance and trusted advocacy, helping clients make informed decisions and move ahead with confidence and peace of mind.

Tracy E. Phillips, Partner tphillips@sgrwlaw.com

Amanda W. Gilbert, Partner agilbert@sgrwlaw.com 301-634-3194

Tracy E. Phillips, Partner tphillips@sgrwlaw.com 301-634-3193

Individuals

Susan Sonnesyn Brooks

Kimberly Cestari

Linda Chaletzky

Ellen Cohen

Lily Cole

MaryAnne Fiorita

Julia Gertler

Alexa Goulding

Chris Hager

Todd Harris

Themis Economos Johnson

Ava Marvastian

Meaghan Miller

Kellie Plucinski

Thomas Powers

Jeremy Rosenthal

Joe Rubin

Franco Saladino

Corey Savelson

Roby Thompson

Helen Trybus

Nazir Ullah

Susan Verner

J. Dominic Vito

Josh Waxman

Capital Crest Group

Estridge Murtagh Coplen

Jane Fairweather Team

Heller Coley Reed Team

Tim Horst Team

The Steve Kelley Team

The Llewellyn Group

The Roman Group

Savercool Team

The Scott Team.

Ron Sitrin Team

Eric Stewart Group

Michelle Yu Team Teams

THE JANE FAIRWEATHER TEAM

m 240.223.4663 | o 240.497.1700 | jane@janefairweather.com

SUSAN VERNER

Park Potomac Office 301.469.4700 | c 240.381.8853 susan.verner@longandfoster.com | www.susanverner.realtor Follow on Instagram: susan_a_verner

Each home purchase or sale is a story in the making. I take pride in helping my clients achieve outstanding results with thoughtful guidance and minimal stress. When unexpected twists occur, who you work with truly matters. Drawing on my experience as a former attorney, I approach real estate with a strategic mindset and strong negotiation skills—creating win-win solutions that lead to successful outcomes and satisfied clients.

“Susan was a great help, and I’d highly recommend her as a Realtor®, and would use her again. I appreciated her organization and market insight most of all, and she was very enjoyable to work with.”

“Susan Verner is the consummate professional — bright, insightful, experienced and patient, and a great negotiator…Throughout, Susan was the best professional and personal advisor we could have asked for.”

“Susan is incredibly knowledgeable about the market and is a very hard worker for her clients.”

Thank you to all our past clients for your faith and support in our real estate services.

Thank you, Bethesda, for believing in us and trusting us with your home.

Voted

“Best of Bethesda” Real estate team because of you.

ROBY

THOMPSON

202.255.2986 | Roby@LNF.com

Woodley Park Office 202.483.6300

Top 1% in the Nation

I have been selling real estate since 1987 and have been the top producing agent in my office for the past 30 years (1995-2025).

I pride myself on having a “back of the hand” knowledge of any jurisdiction in which I show property — this tends to make purchasers and sellers very confident in my ability to represent them.

So, if you are considering selling either now or in the near future, please give me a call and we can discuss your thoughts and come up with a plan to get you the most money for your home in the shortest amount of time! I am a bit of a work-aholic, so just call me at 202-255-2986 any time, and I’ll get right back to you.

LINDA CHALETZKY

301.938.2630 | lindac@lnf.com

Chevy Chase Circle Office 202.966.1400

Linda Chaletzky is a consistently award-winning Realtor® with more than 30 years of experience, following a successful career as an administrative and clinical social worker. She brings that depth of expertise to every transaction, guiding clients confidently through life’s transitions. Known for her integrity, sharp analytical mind, and savvy negotiation skills, Linda tailors each step of the process to meet her clients’ unique needs. Finely attuned to the nuances of interpersonal communication, she connects seamlessly with fellow agents and trusted professionals to keep transactions running smoothly. With humor, insight, and intuition, her success truly speaks for itself. Beyond real estate, Linda is grateful to stay active in her community, explore artistic pursuits, and nurture meaningful relationships.

KIMBERLY CESTARI

c 202.253.8757 | o 202.966.1400

KimberlyC@LNF.com | kimberlycestari.com

As Long & Foster’s No. 1 agent in both DC and MD, Kimberly Cestari’s name and face are synonymous with Chevy Chase real estate, the place she’s called home for 28 years. But her reach extends beyond Chevy Chase — just as her commitment to her clients extends beyond settlement.

Kimberly’s passion for real estate began when she bought her first house after college. Since then, she’s bought and renovated eight homes, and constructed one, so she knows houses — inside and out. Clients benefit from skills she gained as a successful marketing executive with Marriott International and as a former interior designer, her complimentary home staging and preparation is known for creating brilliant before and after effects with stellar sales results. That’s why she’s been consistently voted a leader in DC metro real estate by Bethesda Magazine

Recognized as an expert in real estate and home enhancements, she’s the go-to source for current and past clients on everything from A to Z in real estate. From search to settlement and beyond, her vast knowledge and clever negotiating ensures smooth transactions for her clientele every step of the way.

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c 301.792.2484 | o 301.907.7600

Ava.Marvastian@LNF.com LongandFoster.com/AvaMarvastian

A top-producing agent with Long & Foster, Ava Marvastian is known for her discretion, market expertise, and unwavering commitment to her clients. As a trusted real estate advisor, she delivers a seamless buying and selling experience through clear communication, thoughtful guidance, and genuine care for her clients’ goals.

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Rebecca and Bret Cohen of Silver Spring added square footage while preserving their house's mid-century feel.

UP FOR R E NEWAL

Three thoughtful renovations bring 20th-century homes stylishly up to date

BY JENNIFER BARGER

from Rockville’s West End to Chevy Chase Village, Montgomery County teems with older houses. Many need a little—or a lot—of work. But updating a decades-old or even older property comes with challenges both cosmetic (tiny rooms, outdated lighting) and structural (sinking floors, too-low basement ceilings).

“With any renovation or addition in an older building, the hardest part is putting a contemporary floor plan into a historic structure,” says Mark Kaufman, an architect with Bethesda-based GTM Architects. Go too far and you’ll end up with interiors that turn a 1920s Craftsman into a

bland box; don’t do enough to a historic house, and residents may feel like they’re living in a museum.

Wayne Adams, a principal with Georgetown’s BarnesVanze Architects, which frequently overhauls and enlarges older properties, says, “Some homeowners like to be stewards of older homes—to educate themselves about the properties, to be sensitive to what the house was before.”

Here are three projects that thoughtfully revive and reimagine historic houses. In all of them, homeowners and building professionals respected the past while adapting their spaces to contemporary needs.

An Angular 1970s Beauty

WHEN THEY MOVED INTO their Silver Spring home in 2015, Rebecca and Bret Cohen (both now 42) were taken with the jumbo windows, gabled roofs and open floor plan of the two-story house built in the 1970s. But the couple (she’s an accountant, he’s an attorney) had four young children, and by 2022, the house was beginning to feel cramped.

“We love this house’s openness, but that also meant there wasn’t a lot of space for a home office or a mudroom,” Bret says. “Plus, two of our kids were bunking in one room.” Though they considered moving, the Cohens decided to stay put and expand their space. The couple hired GTM Architects to transform the existing four-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot structure into a sixbedroom, 4½-bathroom dream home with 8,430 square feet of space. The project was completed in May 2024.

The Cohens wanted more square footage, “but I didn’t want it to look like we’d had an addition,” Rebecca says. “I wanted the house to feel whole and to preserve that mid-century feel.” To keep the angular vibe, architect Mark Kaufman and senior project designer Stephen Santos, both with GTM, expanded the footprint with a pair of two-story additions. One at the front increased the square footage of a firstfloor den and reconfigured the primary suite upstairs. A window-filled back addition expanded the existing great room and added a partial basement, a dramatic stair tower, a second-floor bedroom and a covered porch. The existing mid-century breezeway and carport were both enclosed to create an airy foyer, a mudroom and a two-car garage.

An earlier addition with a traditional gabled roof intersected awkwardly with the original home’s dramatic sloped

roofline. GTM removed the addition and extended the main roofline to accommodate a rear stair tower. “It was the solution to interior spatial and circulation challenges,” Santos says. “And it restored architectural clarity to this mid-century home, which had been compromised by mismatched additions.”

With entertaining in mind, the kitchen moved to the rear addition, allowing for more space, two refrigerators and two dishwashers.

The exterior brick was painted in Sherwin-Williams’ “Cyberspace,” a rich charcoal gray, and embellished with vertical paneling in sapele mahogany that complements the stair treads on that dazzling new interior stair

A floating staircase, one of two in the house, was refinished to match the white oak flooring throughout the project.

Below: A two-story addition added square footage to the front of the house.

tower visible through the floor-to-ceiling window panels.

The kitchen, originally positioned at the front of the house, was shifted to the rear addition and connected to the vaulted great room. Wood-Mode Brookhaven cabinets in “Iron Gray” and Fantasy Lux white and gray quartzite countertops give the space a clean look. An L-shaped island, two refrigerators, two dishwashers and ample cabinet space were installed with entertaining in mind. “One of the reasons we did the renovations was that we wanted to host family gatherings,” Bret says. “That island is now a buffet at parties, and day to day the kids pull stools up and use it as a breakfast bar.”

A covered porch holds an al fresco cooking and dining area.

The Cohens worked with GTM to furnish the “new” old house. “We essentially got all new furniture, and Stephen

helped us make it feel kind of transitional,” Rebecca says. “But we do have pieces that nod to the house’s history—an Eames chair, some tamboured wood furniture.” And in the great room, an Arhaus “Kalmar” coffee table made of piecedtogether teak complements the trees outside the window.

The kitchen and great room afford expansive views of the backyard, another major aspect of the project. Washington, D.C., landscape architect Joseph Richardson collaborated with GTM to design a tiered outdoor space with an infinity-edge swimming pool, a raised hot tub, and multiple levels of entertaining spaces. A steel pergola next to the pool provides shade.

“Before this, it was really just a giant yard where the kids played soccer and baseball,” Bret says. “But we thought, how can we use this space? and a pool came to mind. We decided to go all in. Now we love how we can be anywhere in that great room or kitchen and see the kids outside. And we live out there in the summers.”

Reimagining a 1950s Rambler

WHEN THE RAMBLER NOW owned by Dan and Anne Batlle was built in 1954, it starred the snug, closed-off rooms that were in fashion during the Eisenhower era. But the couple, both lawyers in their 50s, wanted more space and storage in the kitchen of the Kensington house they had lived in since 2015. The kitchen was small and awkward, with narrow doors connecting it to a dining room and a sunroom. And a tiny study next to the kitchen was walled off from the rest of the space. “We just called it Eva’s Lego room for years,” says Dan, referring to their now 16-year-old daughter.

The Batlles hired Chevy Chase interior designer Christie Leu to bring the first level of their four-bedroom, 3½-bathroom home into the 21st century. The challenge? Creating a more expansive feel in the kitchen and the rest of the first floor without putting an addition onto the nearly 3,000-square-foot home. “It was all chopped up before, with limited counter space and little storage,” Leu says. “So we started by taking down the wall between the study and the kitchen.”

With the wall down, Leu had more floor space to play with in the kitchen, meaning the study could transform into a breakfast nook and wet bar. For the working part of the kitchen, the Batlles chose cabinets in glazed white oak from Weaver’s Custom Woodworking in Pennsylvania and countertops and backsplashes in a black shade of Dekton, an engineered stone.

To the right of a new 36-inch GE sixburner induction stove, Leu hid an appliance garage behind a sliding panel in the heat-resistant Dekton backsplash. The range hood was covered in reeded wood, matching the cabinets.

On the west side of the kitchen, a small section of cabinets was installed with a lowered countertop and a cabinet concealing a KitchenAid mixer on a hydraulic lift that slides out and pops up.

“That area is basically given over to Eva and her baking,” Ann says.

Accents of navy blue were repeated throughout the house, including in the built-in bookcases in the kitchen.

A rectangular island at the center of the kitchen has a contrasting “Calacatta Valentin” quartz by MSI Surfaces and a base painted in Benjamin Moore’s “Blue Note”—a moody shade evoking the era when the home was built. That same navy paint also coats built-in bookcases in the kitchen and behind the table in the adjoining breakfast room where Eva once assembled Lego.

Leu also widened the doorways from the kitchen to the dining room at the back of the house and a sunporch on the south side of the kitchen. (See photo on page 10.) New picture windows were added to the sunporch and breakfast room. “This meant all this light comes in and the entire space now has great sight lines,” Leu says.

The breakfast nook is equipped with a marble-top, brass-base oval “Nero” table from Crate & Barrel, a built-in banquet upholstered in more shades of blue, and a cone-shaped “Anello” pendant light from Rejuvenation.

Leu also gave a glow-up to the dated, narrow powder room just off the breakfast nook. She wallpapered the room in Rifle Paper’s whimsical green and pink

“Peacock” and designed a custom sink vanity with a curved base that flows into a narrow side counter with shelves. “Before, it was literally just a basin sink with no space for towels or anything,” Ann says. “Now it’s so stylish that my friends threaten to hang out just in there.”

The once-frumpy sunporch next to the kitchen morphed into a chic den and TV-watching area with new outsize windows. It’s kitted out for family time with an Ambella sectional sofa covered in navy fabric, a burled wood coffee table, and a vintage chaise recovered in retro pink.

The whole project was completed in early 2025. “Now we spend all our time in these rooms, like it’s a big apartment,” Dan says. “It’s all more connected and a magnetic place to be.”

Below: Bumping out the rear of this home in Northwest D.C. added space without impacting the curb appeal.

to 7,200 square feet. It was completed in April 2025.

Updating a 1920s Tudor

WITH THEIR HALF-TIMBERED facing and steeply pitched roofs, Tudor-style homes built in the 1920s boast storybook appeal. But tech executives James and Ellen Patterson’s two-story, 1928 house in the Wesley Heights neighborhood of Northwest D.C. had a cramped kitchen that felt far from fairy-tale perfect, and they longed to expand both it and their low-ceilinged basement. “We bought the house in 2017, and we lived in it for three years before we contemplated a renovation,” Ellen says. “We have three daughters [now 16, 18 and 21], and we really wanted more community space.”

The couple, both now in their 50s, began discussing an addition with Georgetown’s BarnesVanze Architects in 2021. Working with them and D.C. interior designer Colman Riddell, the Pattersons undertook an extensive project that expanded their 5,700-square-foot home

Additions on the first floor and in the basement included a much larger light-filled kitchen, a butler’s pantry and a lower-level hangout zone with a spa, gym, music room and a bar-meets-den.

The expansion of the four-bedroom, 4½-bath house also involved repurposing some spaces. A library at the front of the house became a small den; the snug former kitchen morphed into a butler’s pantry and a stairwell down to the expanded basement.

Riddell outfitted the pantry with floor-to-ceiling cabinets lacquered in Farrow & Ball’s “Hague Blue,” a hammered brass sink from Mexico, and Phillip Jeffries grass cloth wallpaper on the ceiling.

“We made that a little moment— it becomes a bar and a storage zone,” says Wayne Adams of BarnesVanze Architects. “It’s nice to have rooms do double duty. It also supports the dining room and keeps the new kitchen from feeling overwhelming.”

The kitchen was bumped out and up, giving it 15-foot vaulted ceilings with wooden beams and clerestory windows. It’s furnished with white oak custom cabinets and an 8-foot-long central island, both capped with Bianco Rhino Supreme marble countertops. “Plus, there’s now a bay window with a banquette, so it’s all very welcoming,” Ellen says. “I love to cook and entertain people in the kitchen, and now we’re not all running into each other in there.”

Downstairs, the 1,200-square-foot basement holds more rooms fit for com-

muning. In the TV room, Farrow & Ball’s deep blue-black “Railings” paint on the walls, a ceiling wallpapered in cork, and a camel-colored sofa from Crate & Barrel add coziness. That’s where the Pattersons watch movies or host friends. “Plus, we added on an entirely new garage and a fantastic gym,” James says.

The family’s favorite basement hangout is the new music room, an “analog” space Riddell tricked out with an oval game table from Design Within Reach, a leather Crate & Barrel sofa and built-in shelves for LPs and equipment. Adding to the tucked-away, unplugged appeal: vintage guitars on display and walls covered in a combo of Farrow & Ball’s “Card Room Green” and wooden slats hiding acoustic felt. It’s where the couple’s daughters practice singing and where James plays his electric guitar. The whole family gathers here to play Double Nine dominoes or vintage games from Ellen’s childhood. “It’s a real hityou-in-the-chest space,” James says. “We love spending time down there.”

The added space below the kitchen became a hangout area with a bar, television and ample seating.

Jennifer Barger is a Washington, D.C., design and travel writer. Follow her on Instagram @dcjnell or via her Substack newsletter, The Souvenirist.

Shari

DANA RICE GROUP

Looking for a strategic partner in your next move? Get Dana Rice Group on your side.

With savvy and smart agents, an on-staff designer, not to mention complimentary staging for all our sellers, you have a full service team dedicated to you from search to settlement.

Dana Rice Group has the real estate chops that make a difference to its clients. Featured on CNBC, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and more, why not tap into the expertise of Dana Rice Group for yourself.

Go ahead and give us a call. We’d love to partner with you.

Dana Rice M 202.669.6908 | O 301.298.1001

dana.rice@compass.com danaricegroup.com

Hans & Steve Wydler founded Wydler Brothers over 20 years ago to

Along the way, they’ve achieved numerous awards and recognitions, written several articles for The Washington Post, authored a book, “Inside the Sell”, co-founded a real estate tech company which sold to Move, Inc. in 2013, and built Wydler Brothers into a highly respected boutique brokerage with 70 agents and employees which they sold to Compass in 2019.

DEIRDRE LOFFT

M 571.213.5056 | O 301.304.8444

deirdre.lofft@compass.com

As a former police officer in the area, I’ve handled tricky situations and tense negotiations. I bring a tough but wholehearted approach to every deal, and I love working with clients to help turn their vision into reality. I even have a team of contractors ready to prep or renovate any home for sale. Here’s what my clients say about me:

“Living 3,000 miles away, I had to rely on Deirdre’s vision, her contractors, her oversight, and judgment. Thank God I trusted her. She even sold my parents car for me because I lived too far way to conduct the sale. Who does that? Deirdre!” — C. Benson

“She is bright, articulate, organized, street smart, professional and very competitive. She asked me what my goal was, and I told her to sell it for the neighborhood record, and that’s exactly what she did!” — D. Harbison

“We are a dual military family, and we have had our share of moves. Deirdre is by far the best agent that we’ve had the pleasure of working with.” — T. Pierson

“Deirdre has the ideal personality for that work, warm, funny, caring, serious but not overly serious. She made the entire process very easy.” — J. Keilson

Going above & beyond for over 21 years.

“Selling a DC rental home is not easy, but selling one with difficult renters and significant damage felt nearly impossible until I met Peter. From day one, he showed an unwavering personal commitment to helping me navigate every obstacle with professionalism, empathy, and grit. He didn’t just list the property and wait he rolled up his sleeves and got involved. Whether it was coordinating with inspectors, contractors, managing tense communications with the renters, or creatively facilitating a challenging move out, Peter was always one step ahead. His dedication and resourcefulness turned a daunting situation into a successful sale. If you’re looking for someone who treats your home like their own and won’t back down from a challenge, Peter is the one. I’m beyond grateful and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone.” — K. Fallon

$17M

Audrey Romano is a seasoned Compass advisor serving Maryland and Virginia, known for combining strategic marketing, meticulous preparation, and calm leadership. With over $150 million in lifetime sales, her success is built on trusted relationships and consistent results.

Drawing on 16 years of experience and leveraging advanced marketing strategy and proven process management, Audrey offers a highly personal approach. Audrey serves as the primary point of contact, actively managing all client needs and guiding each step of the process, supported by a dedicated administrative team that ensures seamless coordination.

16 Years Real Estate Experience

$150M+ Lifetime Sales Proven Results. Personally Delivered.

Wendy Lord has 30 years of experience in commercial and residential real estate and has brought in Heather Michaels to create a dedicated real estate team.

Together they provide experience and energy to each one of their clients, ensuring a positive buying or selling experience. They have numerous partners to help clients navigate the buying and selling process, including financial partners, experienced title companies, specialists in downsizing and organizing, estate sale professionals, as well as experts in their field to make personal changes to a new home or get a house ready for sale.

Vice President miguel.saba@compass.com

M 240.775.0509 | O 240.219.2422

Miguel Saba advises buyers and sellers who expect clarity, strategy, and results. Known for his market intelligence and relentless execution, Miguel helps clients move decisively in competitive conditions, without noise, pressure, or guesswork. Since 2019, Miguel has become a trusted name in the DMV for clients who value preparation, discretion, and strong outcomes. His approach blends data-driven pricing, high-impact marketing, and calm negotiation, designed to protect value and maximize opportunity. From first-time buyers to repeat sellers and investors, Miguel delivers a seamless experience built on transparency, responsiveness, and results, because in today’s market, execution matters.

Real estate in the DMV isn’t about transactions it’s about positioning. $100M+

TRENT & CO

From Stats to Strengths, let’s talk what really separates Compass from other brokerage firms!

The bottom line is simple: you can’t match the collaboration and support of Compass agents. It starts with our Tuesday Property Tours, where 15+ agents walk your home and provide direct feedback on pricing, presentation, and strategy often uncovering truly “offoff” market opportunities for buyers. That teamwork continues through weekly market discussions comparing showings and trends across the DMV, as well as national meetings that share insights from across the country.

At Trent & Co, our motto is “The Power of a Team.” Beyond our staging, community events, and signature approach, we are backed by the strength of the broader Compass network—from the innovative leadership of CEO Robert Reffkin to the hands-on support of our local office and trusted partnerships with lenders, attorneys, and title companies. It’s a complete, connected approach designed to deliver results.

The Trent & Co Niche

Choosing a real estate team is like choosing a great doctor or lawyer—it’s about the right fit. Our specialty is the buy-and-sell strategy, helping clients move from a smaller home to a larger one. While it can feel overwhelming, it’s a seamless and well-practiced process for us. In the 2026 market, step-up buyers are especially well positioned, with strong opportunities in new construction and a notable sweet spot under $1.5M.

Trent & Co also proudly supports our Rightsizers with a monthly Simplifier support group. To learn more or join us, email Ilana@trentandco.com.

Trent Heminger & Mary Noone

Licensed in DC | MD | VA M 240.461.3928 | O 301.298.1001 mary@trentandco.com

Senior Vice President, Licensed in DC | MD | VA

M 202.856.4777 | O 202.448.9002

sarah.hake@compass.com | @the_dc_realtor

SARAH HAKE

Recognized as the Face of Luxury Real Estate, Sarah Hake sets the standard for superior service through unwavering dedication to her clients and a deep respect for her fiduciary duty. Every decision she makes is guided by her clients’ goals, interests, and long term success. Sarah is known for delivering a true white glove experience, combining discretion, strategic insight, and meticulous attention to detail at every stage of the process.

Her business is built on trust, relationships, and results at the highest level. This consistency and dedication have earned her lasting loyalty, a distinguished reputation, and the confidence of clients who return and refer with intention.

#1

Solo Compass Agent By Sales Volume

$154M+

Total Sales Volume Since 2020

GOELMAN FITZGERALD GROUP

Our full-service real estate team is known for our trusted expertise and a highly personal approach. With decades of combined experience and thousands of successful transactions, we’ve earned a strong reputation in one of the region’s most competitive markets. Buying or selling a home is a significant decision, and we believe it should be both seamless and wellsupported. We guide our clients through every step, handling the details with care so the process is clear and well-managed. We deliver refined marketing, smart analysis, and a tailored strategy designed around each client’s goals. Our focus is simple: informed decisions, confident moves, and a real estate experience that is elevated, personal, and thoughtfully executed.

Maura Fitzgerald | M 240.277.3165 | O 301.304.8444 maura.fitzgerald@compass.com

Robin Goelman | M 301.332.2036 | O 301.304.8444 robin.goelman@compass.com

PEARLMAN MEEKIN & CO.

$904M

At Pearlman Meekin & Co., real estate is personal. Led by Cara Pearlman and Megan Meekin, our team blends decades of market expertise with a genuinely thoughtful, hands-on approach because no two clients, homes, or goals are ever the same. Cara and Megan set the foundation for the team with calm, strategic guidance, deep market insight, and a shared commitment to clear communication and creative problem-solving.

That leadership shapes a collaborative, detail-driven team experience that feels both reassuring and energizing from start to finish. Rooted in deep community involvement and a genuine love for the DC-area neighborhoods we serve, our team is committed to making every step feel seamless, supported, and intentional. Whether you’re navigating a major move or planning for what’s next, we’re here to guide you with care, confidence, and purpose.

Cara Pearlman

M 202.641.3008 | O 301.298.1001 cara@compass.com

Megan Meekin

M 240.388.0724 | O 301.298.1001 megan.meekin@compass

Thank you to my amazing clients for voting me Best of Bethesda your trust means the world. I fell in love with real estate because it marries my three passions: people, design and numbers. Here’s how I work: I treat every home like it’s mine negotiating fiercely, caring deeply, and obsessing over every detail. I love what I do, and I’m thrilled to keep serving you with heart and dedication.

YOUR P&RTNERS

O 301.298.1001 yourpartnersdc.com @yourpartnersdc

In today’s ever-changing real estate market, one thing remains the same – Your P&rtners’ unwavering commitment to our clients.

As the #2 Team at Compass DMV, helping buyers and sellers reach their real estate goals is the passion that drives our team. We are not just your agents, we are Your P&rtners, every step of the way Casey Aboulafia, Meredith Margolis, Eva Davis, Jennifer Touchette, Molly Peter, Shelley Gold, Laura London, and Ari Davis your dedicated real estate team in the DMV.

#2

Team at Compass DMV #46

WSJ RealTrends Medium Team by Volume

205

Clients Served in 2025

$200M

Approximate Sales Volume 2025

THE HALEM GROUP

Margie and her team’s extensive knowledge of the market, deep rooted relationships throughout the industry and access to off market properties have made them a valuable asset to their clientele. One of the many things that Margie prides herself on is the level of attention & service she and her team provides to their clients.

For over forty years, The Halem Group has consistently been ranked among the Top Realtors, as well as the Top 1% of agents nationwide. In 2025, The Halem Group ranked in the Top 50 out of approximately 24,000 Realtors in the DC Metro market.

$1.8B+ in Career Sales

Vintage Vibes

1

If you’d like to add an antique piece to your home, but don’t have time for treasure hunting, refinishing or refurbishing, check out these convincing reproductions

BY CAROLYN WEBER

1 Go With the Glow

2

Antique light fixtures are in demand, but often need to be rewir for safe installation and use. The sculptural Weiss pendant is made by artisans who blow milk glass into a wire frame to create three tiers of bubbles. It’s dimmable and adjustable for multiple ceiling heights. $1,199 at Crate & Barrel, 4820 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 202-364-6100, crateandbarrel.com

2 Quilt Trip

Textiles are coveted pieces of Americana and always in demand, especially as the cottagecore trend persists. This floral cotton quilt, a collaboration with children’s clothing brand Pink Chicken, has nostalgic charm, with horizontal stitching, appliqués and piping. It comes in twin and full/queen sizes. $209 or $239 at West Elm, 951 Rose Ave., #104 (Pike & Rose), North Bethesda, 301-230-7630, westelm.com

3 Smooth Move

3

Marble-top furniture pieces from every era are sought for their classic appeal, elegance and function. The Scarlett marble writing desk is made of kiln-dried acacia wood and topped with Banswara marble, is 39 inches wide and features turned legs and a wide single drawer. $899 at Pottery Barn, 4750 Bethesda Ave., Bethesda, 301-654-1598, potterybarn.com

4 Right Turns

Wooden spool bed frames (also called spindle, bobbin or Jenny Lind beds) have lathe-turned details. They’re always popular, but not always easy to find intact. The Webster bed features the classic design in three sizes, with or without a footboard. It’s made of solid poplar and available in earth, white and sunbleached pine (shown) finishes. $1,998 to $3,298 at Serena & Lily, 7121 Bethesda Lane (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 240-531-1839, serenaandlily.com

5 Lettuce Entertain

Perfect for spring, the iconic Cabbage dinnerware was originally designed in the 1880s in Portugal. The collectible, hand-painted earthenware from Bordallo Pinheiro is still in production today, and this new set of four 10½-inch dinner

plates comes in classic green or play ful pink. $196 at Williams Sonoma, 4824 Bethesda Ave. (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 301-718-3071, williams-sonoma.com

6 Through the Looking Glass

A vintage-style mirror adds character to any space, especially a bedroom or bathroom. The art deco-inspired Perla metal mirror has soft lines, with glass that appears to float in the frame. It measures 34 inches high by 22 inches wide and is available in a gold or silver finish. $365 at Anthropologie, 4801 Bethesda Ave. (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 240-345-9413, anthropologie.com

2026 TOP REAL ESTATE PRODUCERS

Here are the top real estate agents and teams based on home sales in Montgomery County and Upper Northwest D.C. (ZIP codes 20015 and 20016). Our list includes 213 agents whose total sales volume was at least $8.5 million and 90 teams with volumes of at least $17 million from Nov. 1, 2024, through Oct. 31, 2025. The data was reported by the brokerages. Top-tier agents had a sales volume of at least $16 million and top-tier teams had an average sales volume of at least $8.5 million per licensed team member from Nov. 1, 2024, through Oct. 31, 2025.

Top Tier: agents with a sales volume of at least $16 million and teams with an average sales volume of at least $8.5 million per licensed member

$3.3 billion

reported total sales volume of all agents on our list (this number has been rounded)

THE AGENCY DC

AGENTS

Nurit Coombe

Alex Martinez

Michelle Milton

Julia Bernstein

Meyer Leibovitch

CENTURY 21 NEW MILLENNIUM

AGENTS

Yue He

Alex Saenger

Mathew Segal

TEAM

KC Real Estate Group

CENTURY 21 REDWOOD REALTY

AGENTS

Jeffrey Ganz

Jeannie Nguyen

COAKLEY REALTY

AGENT

Michael Rose

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

AGENTS

Rowena De Leon

Jeannie Kim

COMPASS

AGENTS

Christy Bakaly

Eva Davis

Nathan Driggers

Tammy Gruner Durbin

Shari Gronvall

Sarah Hake

Gitika Kaul

Phil Kelley

Karen Kelly

Chris Koons-Byrne

Rina Kunk

Wendy Lord

Lindsay Lucas

Meredith Margolis

Michael Matese

Lisa Resch

Dominique Rychlik

Maureen Weaver

Casey Aboulafia

David Abrams

Top Tier: agents with a sales volume of at least $16 million and teams with an average sales volume of at least $8.5 million per licensed member

COMPASS (CONTINUED)

Albert Amar

Kelly Bohi

Jan Brito

Annabel Burch-Murton

Adam Chasen

Heather Foley

Michael Gailey

Caryn Gardiner

Aaron Jeweler

Jennifer Knoll

Jason Koitz

Cheryl Kurss

Traudel Lange

Deirdre Lofft

Peter Maser

Brian Maury

Denise McGowan

Sherine Monir

Kathy Morgan

Sondra Mulheron

Janice Pouch

Lavina Ramchandani

Kyle Richards

Audrey Romano

Miguel Saba

Mary Saltzman

Stacey Styslinger

Keene Taylor

Janice Valois

52 agents at Compass made the list, the largest number of agents for any brokerage

Susan Van Nostrand

Phyllis Wiesenfelder

Shiva Zargham

TEAMS

The Allison Collection

Banner Team

Cheryl Leahy

Dana Rice Group

The Donovan Wye & Mandle Group

Galanti Group

The Halem Group

Kevin Grolig Home Team

Laura Steuart Team

Michael Seay Homes

The North Collection

Pearlman Meekin & Co.

Trent & Co.

Wydler Brothers

Arrowood Advisory

B/C Group

Bernstein Homes

The Bowers Group

Carmen Fontecilla Group

CityScape Group

District Property Group

The Dudley Group

Erich Cabe Team

Ferris Levin Collaborative

Goelman Fitzgerald Group

The Group

Home Keys Team

Jenn Smira and Co.

Katie Bocock Team

Maya&Kate Team

Mollaan Babbington Group

The Rebecca Weiner Group

The Synergy Group

Team Koki

TurnKey

Vassar Broermann Group

Award Winning Top Producer!

Over $1.25 Billion Dollar Personal Sales, one home at a time. Bethesda native with over four decades of extraordinary experience. Concierge level, hands on personal service and expertise.

”Real Estate Teams?”...meet your Quarterback !

Residential Resales, New Home Construction, Consultation Service

41 top-tier teams on our list (teams with an average sales volume of $8.5 million per member)

Top Tier: agents with a sales volume of at least $16 million and teams with an average sales volume of at least $8.5 million per licensed member

CORCORAN MCENEARNEY

AGENTS

Phillip Allen

Marysol Bonilla

Craley Davis

Mark Hudson

Jamie Koppersmith

Ann McClure

TEAMS

The Shorb Team

The Stokes Group

EXIT PROSPERITY REALTY

AGENT

Jonathan Rundlett

EXP REALTY

AGENTS

Muller Dessie

D’Ann Melnick

TEAM

The Rollings Home Team

FORUM PROPERTIES INC.

AGENT

Paul Biciocchi

GREYSTONE REALTY

TEAM

The Balow Band Olinger Group

JACK REALTY GROUP

AGENT

John Pruski

KELLER WILLIAMS

AGENT

Moti Shiferaw

TEAMS

The Edge Group

Saydam Properties Group

LONG & FOSTER

AGENTS

Kimberly Cestari

Todd Harris

Roby Thompson

Helen Trybus

Susan Sonnesyn Brooks

Linda Chaletzky

Ellen Cohen

Lily Cole

MaryAnne Fiorita

Julia Gertler

Alexa Goulding

Chris Hager

Themis Economos Johnson

Ava Marvastian

Meaghan Miller

Kellie Plucinski

Thomas Powers

Jeremy Rosenthal

Joe Rubin

Franco Saladino

Corey Savelson

Nazir Ullah

Susan Verner

J. Dominic Vito

Josh Waxman

TEAMS

Eric Stewart Group

Heller Coley Reed Team

The Llewellyn Group

Michelle Yu Team

Savercool Team

The Steve Kelley Team

Tim Horst Team

Capital Crest Group

Estridge Murtagh Coplen

Jane Fairweather Team

The Roman Group

Ron Sitrin Team

The Scott Team.

Top Tier: agents with a sales volume of at least $16 million and teams with an average sales volume of at least $8.5 million per licensed member

$4.1 billion

reported total sales volume of all teams on our list (this number has been rounded)

NORTHGATE REALTY

AGENT

Angela Goldstein

PREMIER PROPERTIES

AGENT

Carl Becker

RE/MAX REALTY CENTRE

AGENTS

Joe Buffington

Eunice Chu

Ellen Coleman

Jami Dennis

Ellie Hitt

Lynn Holland

Maria Kolick

Maria Mantzouranis

Lauren McBain

Adam Murphy

Orla O’Callaghan

Tracy Onslow

Vicki Reyes

Seema Rodriguez

Andy Rubin

Lavina Samtani

Joe Shaver

Adam Virkus

TEAM

The Dinh Team

RE/MAX REALTY SERVICES

AGENTS

Alex Goumilevski

Michael Altobelli

Helena Pulyaeva

Miguel Ruiz

TEAMS

Frances McGlaughlin Team

Paul Butterfield Team

Ross|Residential

Rudden|Bobruska Team

Andrew Werner & Associates

RE/MAX TOWN CENTER

TEAM

Sabelhaus Team

REDFIN CORP.

AGENTS

Emily Cottone

Delilah Dane

Lisa Greaves

Eric Hovanky

Mandy Kaur

Bryan Kerrigan

Long Ngo

Thomas Paolini

Phil Reding

Lupe Rohrer

Russell Chandler

Janette Coffee

Lina Criales-McAuliffe

Charles Gilroy

Antonia Ketabchi

Claudia MacDonald

Colette Releford

Agne Salgado

Jamie Smart

Lindsay Katz VerStandig

RLAH @PROPERTIES

AGENTS

Melissa Bernstein

Cari Jordan

Jeremy Lichenstein

Stacy Berman

Anh Boesch

Jordan Chronopoulos

Mandy Hursen

Richard Prigal

Jeffrey Reese

Adriana Ruan

Betsy Taylor

David Wagner

Jack Wang

TEAMS

Urban Collective

The Cosmos Group

The Goodman Group

Jennifer Chow Group

Kensington Group

Tamara Kucik Team

SAMSON PROPERTIES

AGENTS

Lily Chang

Christine Song

TEAMS

The Bob & Ronna Group

The One Street Company

Top Tier: agents with a sales volume of at least $16 million and teams with an average sales volume of at least $8.5 million per licensed member

SERHANT

AGENT

Chris Itteilag

TEAMS

Daniel Kotz

top-tier agents on our list (agents with a sales volume of at least $16 million)

The Sky Group

STUART & MAURY INC.

AGENTS

Robert Jenets

Matthew Maury

Scott Matejik

TTR SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

AGENTS

William Fastow

Russell Firestone

Kelly Basheer Garrett

Yianni Konstantopoulos

Katherine Martin

Barbara Nalls

Michael Rankin

Megan Bonanno

Katherine Buckley

Chris Burns

Rob Carter

David DeSantis

Toni Gage

Wendy Gowdey

Gerry Gretschel

Laurie Muir

Marie Tongol

Kirsten Williams

Kari Wilner

TEAMS

Capital to Coast Homes

Carolyn Homes

The Heider Company

HRLS Partners

Jeff Wilson Team

The Jonathan Taylor Group

The Lauren Davis Team

The Burr Group

The Elaine Koch Group

Michael Matese

Finnell Lee Homes

Legendary Homes

Premier Partners

The Rob & Brent Group

WASHINGTON FINE PROPERTIES

AGENTS

Jaci Appel

Kira Epstein Begal

Nancy Itteilag

Anne Killeen

Lori Leasure

Eileen McGrath

Kay McGrath

Liz Lavette Shorb

Lisa Stransky

Margot Wilson

Boucie Addison

Hadley Debevoise Allen

Clare Boland

Kerry Fortune Carlsen

Alyssa Crilley

Patty Daniels

Tammy Gale

Nate Guggenheim

Cynthia Howar

Daryl Judy

Doc Keane

Kathy Kiernan

Darcy Langdon

Delia McCormick

Ellen Morrell

Joanne Pinover

Christine Terrell

Jennifer Wellde

TEAMS

The Meg & Alison Team

The Roth Team

The Schuman Team

The Nancy Taylor Bubes Group

ZEIGER REALTY INC.

AGENT

Stacey Zeiger

YOU NEED MORE THAN LUCK. YOU NEED D’ANN

D’Ann Melnick, Associate Broker/Realtor®, CRS, MRP homes@lifeinmoco.com | 301-900-5065 (mobile) LifeInMoCo.com | 833-335-7433 (broker) | Licensed in DC|MD|VA|FL

D’Ann Melnick is a skilled negotiator who thrives in the fast-moving world of real estate in our region. She excels at using out-of-the-box tactics to get her buyers’ offers accepted in competitive situations and knows exactly how to prepare and price a home for sale to maximize both profits and terms for her sellers.

With over 20 years of experience, D’Ann blends deep market knowledge with Southern hospitality, offering an exceptional experience tailored to each client’s unique needs. D’Ann is also passionate about giving back to the community she calls home and volunteers with several local non-profits.

Finalist, Best Real Estate Agent

MOM DAUGHTER DUO & THE DOOD. BETHESDA TO BOCA… PALM BEACH TO POTOMAC. SNOW TO SUN “STEP INSIDE WITH US…”

Sydney & Jill Schwartz Group

SYDNEY & JILL SCHWARTZ

Jill & Sydney are award winning trusted luxury real estate advisors specializing in high-value residential properties and complex transactions. As multi-time Agents of the Year and 2024 Ellie Award recipients, they are known for discretion, strategic insight, and long-standing client relationships built on trust.

RLAH Real Estate, LLC

7200 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 500 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-758-7224

Sydney.Schwartz@Elliman.com JillSchwartzGroup.com

Q: What makes your client experience unique?

A: Our client experience is highly curated, discreet and relationship-driven. We work closely with professional athletes, investment bankers, restaurant and hospitality investors, and private wealth management professionals who value precision, confidentiality and strategic guidance. Every client receives unconditional support and patience, strategic guidance and access to an exceptional network—locally and nationally. We operate with precision and intention.

Q: What makes you different from other real estate agents in the region?

A: Our work is rooted in trust, reputation and results—never volume. Every decision is strategic, every recommendation is thoughtful, and every client relationship is treated as long-term. We combine legacy market expertise with consistent attention to data points across multiple regions. Our approach is elevated. We operate at the intersection of relationship capital,

financial intelligence and innovation, allowing us to serve sophisticated clients with clarity and confidence.

Q: What do you enjoy most about what you do?

A: Advocating for our clients at the highest level, and guiding accomplished individuals and families through complex deals with calm leadership, thoughtful strategy and clear alignment with their long-term goals.

Q: What is the most significant change in real estate during your career?

A: The rise of highly informed, financially savvy clients and the integration of technology and AI into market analysis, pricing strategy and exposure. While tools have evolved, trusted counsel and human judgment remain irreplaceable. Today’s market rewards expertise, preparation and trusted counsel more than ever.

Q: What is the biggest challenge in your job?

A: Balancing speed, precision and discretion in increasingly competitive markets. Our role is to simplify complexity, anticipate risk, and protect value—often behind the scenes—while ensuring our clients are always informed and positioned to gain an advantage.

Q: What should homeowners know about today’s market?

A: Preparation and positioning matter more than ever. Homes that are strategically priced, professionally presented, and marketed with both traditional excellence and modern technology continue to perform exceptionally well.

Rudden Bobruska Team

GARY RUDDEN, LISA RUDDEN, NICK BOBRUSKA, COLE BUTTERFIELD

Honors & Awards: Ranked Top 2 percent Nationwide and #10 in Maryland for Small Team Volume Real Trends

Verified, 2025; Re/Max Diamond & Chairman Club, 2018-2025; Bethesda Magazine Top Producer, 2018-2025; Best of Washingtonian, 2018-2025; Real Trends America Best Real Estate

Professionals, 2019-2025; Top 100 DC Metro Real Producers, 2019-2025

RE/MAX Realty Services

15245 Shady Grove Road #100, Rockville, MD 20850

Office: 240-403-0399

Direct: 301-351-2247

garyjrudden@remax.net

RuddenBobruskaTeam.com

Q: What’s most important for people to know about your team?

A: We’re a highly successful, top producing team with years of experience in the Washington, D.C. metro area’s ever-changing real estate market. Our expertise and services go well beyond what the average Realtor or real estate team can offer. We’re technically savvy and strategically showcase our listings on all major social media platforms and websites to maximize exposure. We fully prepare our listings for the market with home staging services ranging from interior design to “extreme makeovers” that include large-scale repairs and renovations. While most Realtors must seek outside help for renovation and construction, we’re uniquely able to offer these services through our in-house licensed and bonded Maryland home improvement services team.

Q: What other advantages can you offer your clients?

A: Buyers can get advice on repairs, upgrades and costs from our construction expert. Our vast network allows us to premarket homes for sellers, and discover homes for buyers, before they even hit the market. All our team members are knowledgeable, experienced and committed to providing the highest level of service. We work in all price ranges and are truly a full-service, one-stop shop for clients. “This team is pure magic as they held my hand and sold my house of many years in 72 hours,” said one of our recent sellers. We strive for this magic every day.

Lee Ann Wilkinson

REALTOR & CEO

THE LEE ANN WILKINSON GROUP

For over 40 years, Lee Ann Wilkinson Group has been a leading force in real estate, helping buyers and sellers find their perfect homes throughout Coastal Delaware. As CEO of the #1 ranked local and national Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices team, she combines deep expertise, personal attention and a passion for her community.

16698 Kings Highway, Suite A Lewes, DE 19958

Office: 888-770-6664

Cell: 302-645-6664 LeeAnnGroup.com

Q: Why do clients choose the Lee Ann Wilkinson Group?

A: People come to us because we know Coastal Delaware inside and out—and because we genuinely care about helping them reach their goals. Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading to a larger property, downsizing or finding a second beach home, we provide guidance that’s personal, practical and stress-free. Our team of 24 agents & full-time staff brings decades of combined experience, a deep local network and hands-on support at every stage. From marketing your home to finding the perfect property, we make sure every detail gets the attention it needs.

Q: How do you make the buying or selling experience unique?

A: Real estate is never one-size-fits-all, and every client’s goals, concerns and timeline are different. Our role is to be a trusted advisor— advocating and problem-solving at every

step—so my clients feel informed, confident, and fully supported long after the transaction is complete. We’re available seven days a week, offering personalized attention and providing extensive marketing and resources so every transaction runs smoothly.

Above all, it’s about the relationships built. Over 60% of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals, which reflects the trust we’ve earned.

Q: What is your advice to readers looking to potentially invest this year at the beach?

A: Every year I’m asked the same question, and my answer remains the same: invest NOW. Coastal Delaware real estate has shown steady year-over-year growth, and beach property continues to be one of the most resilient and desirable investments. Whether you’re looking for long-term appreciation, rental income or that second home, investing at the beach has proven time and again to be a smart move.

Ellie Hitt

RE/MAX REALTY CENTRE

3300 Olney Sandy Spring Road, Suite 200 Olney, MD 20832 240-888-8448

ellie@homeswithellie.com HomesWithEllie.com

Q: What makes your client experience unique?

A: Clients often tell me they’re glad to have me on their side of the table because they can tell I genuinely care about their success. Real estate should be fun, exciting and joyful, but as a major financial decision, it can also be stressful. I consistently and assertively advocate for my clients, ensuring that they’re protected, informed and never pushed around or taken advantage of. For me, this work is about so much more than a transaction; it’s about building lifelong relationships rooted in trust, honesty and a deep understanding of my clients’ needs and concerns. I’ll always tell them what they need to hear—not just what they want to hear—and guide them with transparency and compassion every step of the way.

Rowena De Leon

2 Bethesda Metro, Suite 560 Bethesda, MD 20814 Mobile: 240-423-2422 Office: 301-718-0010

Rowena.deleon@cbrealty.com RowenaDeLeon.com

Q: What is the secret to your success?

A: Building genuine relationships, maintaining a strong work ethic and always putting people before transactions. Over my 21 years in residential real estate, I’ve built a business rooted in trust. Clients know I truly listen, communicate clearly and advocate for them at every step. Real estate is personal, and I make sure every client feels supported and well-informed throughout the process. That level of commitment is why so many of my clients return and refer their friends and families.

Q: What do you love most about working in the Washington Metro area?

A: The diversity. As a native Washingtonian, I love serving people from all walks of life. The ever-evolving nature of this market brings constant variety, making the work both exciting and uniquely rewarding.

Karen Rollings

THE ROLLINGS HOME TEAM AT EXP REALTY

Karen brings more than 40 years of real estate experience, averaging 110 transactions a year and consistently ranking among the DMV’s top agents. A respected lecturer and trainer for local brokerages, she has also appeared on HGTV’s Get It Sold and Sleep on It, as well as WETA’s If You Lived Here.

3410 N. High Street Olney, MD 20832

Office: 301-924-8200 Cell: 301-928-4862

Karenrollings@gmail.com RollingsHomeTeam.com

Q: What makes your team unique?

A: We know your home is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make, and that’s a responsibility we take seriously. From our first conversation to closing—and even beyond—we’re here to guide you, answer your questions and handle every detail so you can focus on your next chapter.

Whether you’re buying, selling, relocating, upsizing, downsizing or flipping a property, we adapt to your goals and timeline. We’re also experienced with complex situations like trusts, estates, probates and divorce sales, and work closely with top real estate attorneys throughout the DMV to make sure every detail is handled with care.

From Baltimore to Bethesda and all counties in between, we have agents ready to help you move with confidence.

Q: How do clients describe working with you?

A: People often say working with us feels smooth, approachable and surprisingly easy—even in stressful moments. They notice our attention to detail, flexibility and calm guidance at every step.

Our team proudly serves a diverse and global clientele, offering seamless communication and culturally informed representation. With agents who speak 12 different languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Ukrainian and more, you can be confident your questions are always understood.

We’re also full-service, providing professional staging, access to trusted service providers and connections to cash investors to help maximize value. Whether it’s a first home, a luxury property or a multimillion-dollar residence, we focus on making sure you feel supported, informed and satisfied with the outcome.

Lauren Kline & Amy Michaels

COMPASS

LK: 301-518-9005 | lauren@laurenklinehomes.com

AM: 301-807-5900 | amy.michaels@compass.com

LaurenKlineHomes.com

Compass.com/agents/amy-michaels

Representing Home Sellers and Buyers in MD. DC. VA

Q: What distinguishes you in this crowded marketplace?

LAUREN: With 20 years in business, sales and entrepreneurship, prior to 20 years in real estate—combined with an MBA in consumer market research—my marketing expertise, strategic thinking, negotiation and collaboration skills give me a unique edge in analyzing trends and translating complex market data into practical insights that help my clients make confident, optimal real estate decisions.

AMY: Before launching my real estate career in 2003, I spent two decades in TV news, broadcast advertising sales and management. That experience seamlessly translated into creative marketing, savvy negotiating skills, and client-driven advocacy. Being a native Washingtonian, I offer unparalleled DMV insight and resources.

Michael P. Rose

COAKLEY REALTY, INC.

20 Courthouse Sq., Suite 107 Rockville, MD 20850

O: 301-340-8700, x1103

D: 301-814-3200 mprose57@aol.com MichaelPRose.com

Q What is your approach to a successful real estate career?

A I’ve built my career on five unwavering pillars: 1. Listen. Listening is paramount to gaining trust; it allows me to better analyze a client’s situation and offer the best solutions. 2. Continue Learning. Identifying and interpreting changing market forces enhances credibility and builds confidence. As an economist, I prioritize analytics, attain credible data and stay ahead of market trends, ensuring my clients are best equipped to make informed decisions. 3. Live by the Golden Rule. Show me an ethical person who treats his clients and peers with compassion and sincerity, and I’ll show you someone successful in their career. 4. Pay it Forward. Give back by pouring yourself into the people and causes you truly care about. 5. Be Remembered. Make a great first impression—not just a good one.

HOME SALE HIGHLIGHTS

A SNAPSHOT OF LAST YEAR’S HOUSING MARKET IN OUR AREA

HOME SALE TRENDS

in 17 ZIP codes

Subdivision

BETHESDA 20814

How much are housing prices rising? Are more homes being sold? Where are homes selling the fastest? The following chart helps answer these questions with data on the number of sales, the average sale price and the average number of days on the market for detached homes in 17 ZIP codes from our coverage area from 2021 through 2025. The subdivisions included had at least five total sales during the last five years and at least one sale in the past year. The ZIP code totals may be greater than the sum of the figures listed for each subdivision because they include homes in neighborhoods that are not listed on this chart. Real estate agents might enter sales into the Bright MLS database retroactively. As a result, some of the historical data may have been updated from what has been reported in previous years. Some numbers have been rounded.

Data provided by Bright MLS and Zillow. Statistics generated on Jan. 15, 2026. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

CHEVY CHASE 20815

BETHESDA 20816

BETHESDA 20817

CABIN JOHN 20818

ROCKVILLE 20850

NORTH BETHESDA/ROCKVILLE 20852

GAITHERSBURG/NORTH POTOMAC 20878

GARRETT PARK 20896

SILVER SPRING 20901

SILVER SPRING 20902

SILVER SPRING 20910

NORTHWEST D.C. 20016

ABOUT BRIGHT MLS The Bright MLS real estate service area spans 40,000 square miles throughout the mid-Atlantic region, including Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and parts of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. As a leading Multiple Listing Service (MLS), Bright serves approximately 85,000 real estate professionals who in turn serve more than 20 million consumers. For more information, visit brightmlshomes.com

ABOUT ZILLOW As the most visited real estate app and website in the United States, Zillow connects hundreds of millions of consumers with innovative technology, trusted agents and loan officers, and seamless digital solutions. With industry-leading tools and resources, Zillow supercharges real estate professionals so they can grow their businesses and deliver exceptional client experiences. Zillow’s professional solutions and programs include Zillow Pro, Zillow Preferred, Zillow Showcase, Zillow Media Experts, Follow Up Boss, ShowingTime, dotloop, Aryeo and more.

MEET 10 HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS WHO ARE EXCELLING, FROM A COMPETITIVE SAILOR TO A POET LAUREATE

Extraordinary

ByRobinL.Flanigan,JillianLynch&AmyReinink

2026 SELECTION COMMITTEE

JORDAN EDELIN is coordinator of written and oral communication at The Universities at Shady Grove’s John and Effie Macklin Center for Academic and Leadership Success.

JILLIAN LYNCH is the associate editor of Bethesda Magazine

CHRISTINA MCGILL is early college coordinator at Montgomery College.

KATHLEEN NEARY is the editor of Bethesda Magazine.

YESENIA E. REGALADO is director of training and community impact at Leadership Montgomery.

Thomas S. Wootton High School

CHARLIE ROLLINS

A SERIES OF RACIALLY charged incidents at Rockville’s Thomas S. Wootton High School during the 2024-2025 school year led to the threat of a walkout during a pep rally. Charlie Rollins, treasurer of the Student Government Association (SGA) and the Black Student Union (BSU), brokered a discussion between the SGA and the BSU and introduced a new plan to the student body.

The pep rally became a time for sharing powerful stories about experiences with racism and advocating for cultural change at the school in the form of more positive daily interactions among students. After the rally, students and staff moved to the school’s commons for a moment of silence.

Charlie, now an 18-year-old senior, recalls feeling proud of the outcome. “Nowadays it’s very hard to get high schoolers passionate about issues, espe-

cially when those issues don’t concern them directly,” says the current SGA co-president and BSU vice president.

Charlie’s racial advocacy work earned a citation of excellence from Maryland state Del. Jheanelle Wilkins, for sustained advocacy in combatting administrative failures to address hate incidents, according to Charlie.

After a shooting at Wootton in February, Charlie was part of a group that met with the MCPS superintendent. “We voiced our concerns and provided alternative solutions for the future,” Charlie says via text message. This school year, he also created a program for upperclassmen to help underclassmen find summer internship opportunities, and provide resources and advice.

A member of the Science National Honor Society, Charlie tutors students in biology, chemistry and physics, and serves as vice president of Students Stand with Soldiers, a school club that assembles care packages for ill and wounded service members.

Charlie had aspired to be a military doctor since second grade, when he attended his cousin’s graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy. However, attending two U.S. Naval Academy summer programs helped him clarify his goals. “Now that my interests in health equity and community-based advocacy have become clearer, I know that a civilian undergrad experience would be better for me,” he says.

Even so, his plan to become a shock trauma physician hasn’t wavered.

Charlie, a resident of Potomac, is known as “an incredibly responsive teenager” by neighbors in his Fox Hills West neighborhood, says Gail Ewing, who lives nearby. She says Charlie spent months helping with chores around another neighbor’s house after the neighbor was hospitalized for a short time. “You wonder how he fits so much into each day ... but he does,” Ewing says. “You wonder if he ever sleeps.”

—Robin L. Flanigan

Richard Montgomery High School

CHELSEA ZHU

WHEN CHELSEA ZHU SPEAKS, the 18-year-old’s thoughts flow intentionally from one topic to the next, whether it’s about climate change, artistry or language.

Chelsea is the 2025 Maryland Youth Poet Laureate, an honor presented by New York City-based Urban Word, the organization that named Amanda Gorman the first national Youth Poet Laureate, and Words, Beats & Life, a Washington, D.C.-based arts education nonprofit. Chelsea, who lives in Rockville, was commissioned to write and perform a poem about D.C. for the 2025 Smithsonian Folklife Festival by Words, Beats & Life.

“I’m continually getting to perform my poetry,” Chelsea says. As a state-level youth poet laureate, Chelsea has attended virtual programming, such as a talk led by Ada Limón, a former Poet Laureate of the United States. “That community and that ability to know that you have people with you who can create change and who really see you as an artist and as a creative has really pushed me through writing and pushed me to explore social justice and activism and advocacy in a way I’ve never done before.”

Chelsea was a Montgomery County Youth Poet Laureate finalist in 2023 and 2024. She won the 2024 Gaithersburg Book Festival poetry contest for high school students with “Voyage to the Exoplanet,” which was published in an environmentally focused poetry anthology, The Nature of Our Times. She has had several other works published, and her poem “Lowcountry Haibun” is slated to appear in the South Carolina Review this spring.

A senior in the International Baccalaureate program at Richard Montgomery High School in Rockville, Chelsea sometimes asks her English teachers for feedback on her work. What stands out, says Bonnie Peyer, who is one of those teachers, is Chelsea’s “ability to put herself in a lot of scenarios that I wasn’t expecting … to really imagine very different contexts and places and people than our everyday experience.”

Chelsea says her teachers have encouraged her to share her writing with others and taught her ways to experiment with different forms of poetry. “She’s a poet who puts a lot of thought into what she’s saying and how she’s saying it and why she’s saying it,” says Jack Smith, an English composition assistant at Richard Montgomery.

Chelsea began writing poetry when she was 7 or 8, she says. She grew up in a primarily Mandarin-speaking household and says “poetry gravitated toward” her as “a close friend” that helped her understand her emotions and the world.

At her school, Chelsea is co-president of the student-led Writing Center, president of the equity board and co-president of the math honor society. She’s also the co-chair of the Aspen Hill Library Advisory Committee.

A competitive figure skater, Chelsea was selected for the 2025 U.S. Figure Skating Scholastic Honors Team, made up of 10 high school skaters recognized for excellence in the sport, academics and community service. Chelsea wants to pursue a career that combines technology and creativity.

—Jillian Lynch

Our

Lady of Good Counsel

High School

PIETRA MASCHIORO

A SENIOR AT Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Olney, Pietra Maschioro, 17, enjoys creating art, performing in speech competi tions for her school, dancing as a majorette—also with her school— and even just drawing with her younger half sister.

Pietra was born and raised in Montgomery County and her par ents are from Brazil. She lives with her mom in Silver Spring. She represents her heritage in school as president of the Latino Stu dent Association, a position she’s held since her sophomore year.

Pietra says she was 10 years old and on a vacation in the Dominican Republic, when she slipped on a waterslide and knocked out her two front teeth. Finding quick access to a dentist proved to be a challenge, and she couldn’t get adequate care in time to save the teeth. As a result, she wears a prosthetic along with braces, which at first left her feeling “lost,” she says.

Graphic novels by Raina Telgemeier, including Smile, which is about the author’s experiences growing up after having teeth knocked out, inspired Pietra to pursue her dreams, she says. That includes a career as a surgeon. “I don’t want [other kids] to feel like their life is over because they look a certain way,” Pietra says.

Pietra volunteers each week at MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney. In December, she started volunteering at the Sandy Spring Volunteer Fire Department and is on track to become a licensed emer gency medical technician in May. As a fresh man at Good Counsel, she was accepted into a four-year engineering program called Project Lead the Way, where she built a pro totype of a robotic prosthetic arm during her sophomore year.

“Other kids will want to go to college, eventually medical school. She wants to jump into that now to help others now, and learning literally hands-on,” says Edward Owusu, principal of Good Counsel.

Pietra says she participated in a national speech competition in Chicago in April 2025, where she gave a dramatic performance.

“Her biggest performance strength is her ability to capture very viscerally how somebody is feeling and then convey that to an audience,” says Chuck Ehrman, her speech and debate coach who is also an assistant principal at Good Counsel. “And that’s voice, it’s body language, it’s facial expressions—it’s all that stuff.”

—J.L.

Richard Montgomery High School JACK VOGEL

AS A CHILD, Jack Vogel loved building model airplanes with his father, Jason Vogel. Jason, who had muscular dystrophy, eventually lost the motor skills needed to build the planes but still spent hours beside Jack at a workbench in their Rockville home’s garage. Jack’s father died in March 2024, when he was 48 and Jack was 16.

Now an 18-year-old senior at Richard Montgomery High School in Rockville, Jack says his passion for aviation and rocketry was sparked during those hours building planes with his dad. As part of the Rockville Science Center Explorer Post 1010 rocketry team, Jack helped build and launch a rocket that earned second place for vehicle design in NASA’s 2024 Student Launch competition in Huntsville, Alabama.

He also earned a scholarship to attend Aim High Flight Academy, a three-week flight training program in Bakersfield, California, sponsored by the U.S. Air Force. Before the academy, Jack had never flown a plane. He studied for the academy, which included hours of flight with instructors, and spent his downtime there “chair flying,” which involves sitting in a chair and mentally running through procedures as if he were in an aircraft. His muscle memory and situational awareness earned him the ability to be trusted with a solo flight at the end of the program, a privilege not awarded to all students.

Jack spent several summers working on his grandparents’ farm in Nebraska, and the landscaping knowledge he gained

led him and a friend to start a landscaping business. Jack also runs track and field, wrestles and practices jiujitsu.

His grandfather, George Vogel, of Omaha, Nebraska, recalls watching Jack make his dad’s tea, set up his meals, help him dress and assist with his respirator, “all without being asked.” Jack credits his work ethic to his father.

“By the time he was my age, my dad had gone through multiple organ transplants, and he was in a lot of pain for my whole life,” Jack says. “But every time I came home, he was happy to see me, and ready to help me out. No matter how hard I think I have it, my dad always had it harder. I tell myself: ‘If he can do it, so can I.’ ”

Jack is a “humble kid who prefers to fly under the radar,” says Erica LeBright, a school counselor at Richard Montgomery. “He really cares about his character and is mindful of his actions and how he treats people.”

Jack plans to pursue aviation in college and hopes to become a pilot.

—Amy Reinink

Pierpaolo Baldassari British

International School

PIERPAOLO BALDASSARI HAD ALWAYS enjoyed summer sailing camps while visiting his grandparents in Miami.

But it wasn’t until his family decided to temporarily relocate to Miami in June 2020 that Pierpaolo began sailing competitively. That change led Pierpaolo, now a 17-year-old senior at the British International School of Washington, in Washington, D.C., to progress rapidly in the sport, traveling around the world to compete and eventually becoming a member of the inaugural U.S. Sailing Youth National Team in 2025. Last year, Pierpaolo spent roughly 50 hours per month from January to May training and competing in national regattas. During the summer months, he spent nearly 150 hours training and competing in international competitions per month.

“It’s quite unheard of for someone to go from being new to sailing to accomplishing the extraordinary things he has accomplished,” says Ron Rosenberg of Orcas Island, Washington, one of Pierpaolo’s coaches. “We have a very special athlete and human on our hands with Pierpaolo.”

“I love the strategy aspect of sailing, like you’re playing chess, but your boat is one of the pieces,” says Pierpaolo, who lives in the Somerset neighborhood of Chevy Chase and serves as a member of the Somerset Youth Town Council.

Pierpaolo credits his family as his greatest source of support. He says he

enjoys sharing his Italian and Hispanic heritage by organizing Hispanic Heritage Month at his school and hosting cooking nights for friends. He is fluent in English, Spanish and Italian, and proficient in French.

Pierpaolo has traveled to Mexico for Model United Nations conferences twice. He’s co-founder of Baldassari Apparel, a bulk embroidery startup. Under his grandfather’s guidance, Pierpaolo built a supplier network for the business that includes D.C., New York and Italy.

Kat Deakin, Pierpaolo’s International Baccalaureate physics teacher, says Pierpaolo is “a level-headed, quiet leader who is endlessly positive and polite.”

He participates in varsity soccer and flag football, and he placed second last year while representing his school at the Canada Cup, an interschool downhill skiing competition in British Columbia for middle and high school students.

Pierpaolo earned a scholarship to participate in an internationally focused gap-year program called Baret Scholars. He has also been accepted to Boston College’s Carroll School of Management where he will be enrolled after his gap year.

—A.R.

Wheaton High School

Naomi Demessie

NAOMI DEMESSIE SPOTTED SOMETHING interesting during a stint as a hospital volunteer while spending a summer with family in Nevada in 2023. Naomi, then 15, noticed that children at the hospital were often reading a book rather than playing video games or watching television. She wondered whether they were missing the intellectual stimulation provided in school and started thinking about how she could bring the benefits of school into the hospital.

Back in Silver Spring in January 2024, Naomi and a friend created the STEMpedic Foundation, a charitable organization that donates STEM activity kits and books to hospitalized children. Science, technology, engineering and math kits can include basic circuitry and robotics components, Lego, solar system model kits or organic chemistry molecule-building sets. After receiving a grant from Youth Creating Change, STEMpedic donated 60 STEM kits to Johns Hopkins Children’s Center in Baltimore. The organization has given roughly $16,000 worth of STEM kits and books to more than 1,400 children across the country. It also donates to homeless and refugee children.

STEMpedic adviser Katie Rosenthal of Chevy Chase says Naomi’s ability to bring a big idea to reality “blew me away,” and says Naomi is consistently “cool, composed and prepared” when presenting to grant committees.

Naomi, now an 18-year-old senior at Wheaton High School, credits her desire to care for others to her Ethiopian heritage.

“I felt such a sense of accomplishment knowing I was helping to provide not only things that children need but that they want— that sense of normalcy and inclusion,” she says.

In addition to being the co-founder of STEMpedic, Naomi organizes blood drives as president of the Wheaton High School Red Cross Club. She leads health screenings and educates Black residents of Montgomery County on disease prevention through the African American Health Program. She volunteers at Metropolitan Washington Ear, a nonprofit that provides reading and information services and training for blind, visually impaired and disabled people. And most afternoons, Naomi works at Silver Spring’s Cannon Road Elementary School’s Kids After Hours, a before- and after-school care program where she leads Lego and robotics clubs, and translates for Amharic-speaking families. She remains active in Youth Creating Change as its co-president.

Katina Chappell, who taught Naomi’s junior year Advanced Placement language and composition class, says Naomi is a star student and a kind person who wrote Chappell a threepage letter expressing gratitude for all she had learned in class.

Naomi was a 2026 Coca-Cola Scholars regional finalist and earned a Certificate in Advanced STEM Research through the Wheaton Advanced Research Project Program. Naomi was accepted to the University of Southern California, where she plans to study global health.

—A.R.

The Siena School

Sylvia Fine

WHEN SYLVIA FINE BECAME president of her Silver Spring neighborhood’s civic group, the Springbrook Forest Citizens Association, she was too young to vote. A senior at The Siena School in Silver Spring, she has served on the association’s board since eighth grade.

“14-year-olds aren’t usually having casual conversations with adults of all ages,” she says, referring to neighborhood residents, “but I really enjoy talking to people, and felt this was a way to get to know members of my community.”

An advocate on many levels, Sylvia, now 18, founded her school’s Women in STEM Club, organized a bone marrow drive for the Gift of Life Donor Program, and proposed expanding Narcan access at schools while on the Montgomery County’s SMART Youth Advisory Council.

She also started a political advocacy club at Siena and created a curriculum to educate its members on how to express their concerns to elected officials. In 2025, the club secured a $500,000 state grant for Siena to support students with dyslexia.

When Sylvia is passionate about an issue at school, she’ll think of multiple solutions before soliciting feedback from school administrators, notes Jennifer Chambers, who was Sylvia’s middle school adviser and science teacher. “She’s a very outcome-driven student,” Chambers says. “She doesn’t wait for things to happen in her life. She makes things happen in her life.”

Sylvia has attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and dysgraphia, a learning disability that makes it difficult to get her thoughts onto paper.

She also has dyslexia, and says she is grateful for the management tools and strategies her teachers have shared, especially when reading and processing dense legislation. That’s something she had to do while interning with state Del. Joe Vogel, who represents District 17 in Montgomery County, and before testifying against Montgomery County’s controversial University Boulevard Corridor Plan on behalf of her community.

“No matter how long it takes me, I’ll properly read through and digest everything to make sure everyone is properly represented by someone who is capable,” she says, which is also how she approaches pedestrian safety, parking and other neighborhood issues.

Communication skills are one of Sylvia’s strongest assets, says her mother, Alana Fine. When Sylvia was the only member of her political party at a polling site, she offered the opposing campaigners snacks and spent time listening to their ideology. “It was a real example of looking beyond a differing camp and trying to connect,” Alana Fine says.

Sylvia says the reason is simple—and why she wants to be an engineer: “I want to help people.”

—R.L.F.

ETHAN SHAW Georgetown Preparatory School

ETHAN SHAW WAS TASKED with doing a project on a marginalized community during his freshman year at Georgetown Preparatory School. As his classmates at the private North Bethesda school for boys chose to do projects about the homeless and people with mental health struggles or disabilities, Ethan, who lives in Bethesda, realized many marginalized identities can be found among veterans.

The project inspired Ethan, now an 18-year-old senior, to create the Georgetown Prep Veteran Aid Club. He partnered with United Soldiers and Sailors of America (USASOA), a Maryland-based nonprofit that helps service members, veterans and their families, and began organizing food drives, barbecues, a 5K run and several other fundraisers. Ethan eventually formed Project STARS (Support Troops and Retired Service Members), a coalition of eight local schools devoted to assisting veterans.

“I thought I’d hear from Ethan once a month or so with the club,” says George Hendren, Veteran Aid’s faculty moderator and Ethan’s Latin teacher. “He came to me every single week with a new event.”

Ethan was born five weeks premature, leading to hearing problems. He says he began wearing a hearing aid in middle school and had to learn “it wasn’t a weakness, but just one small part of me, along with everything else I am.”

Ethan handled a hip fracture during his freshman year of track and field with similar equanimity, spending three months recovering before returning to the team the following season to compete in events ranging from the 55-meter sprint to the 4-by-400-meter

relay and the long jump.

His hobby of photographing school athletic events led to a photography business, with clients including Montgomery County Little League and his school.

He is co-president of his school’s Black Student Association (BSA). Ethan has a knack for “quietly counseling younger students on the road ahead,” says Dacque Tirado, Ethan’s Advanced Placement comparative government teacher and BSA faculty moderator.

School officials say Ethan’s academic schedule has been among the most demanding in his class, with nine honors, AP and post-AP classes throughout his time in high school.

Ethan also interns with the USASOA Government Affairs Legislative Team. He is interested in studying political science or international relations in college.

—A.R.

Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School

Dylan Zimmerman

WATCHING

HER

YOUNGER BROTHER

deal with episodes of severe nausea and vomiting for months—without a proper diagnosis—left Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School senior Dylan Zimmerman, then an eighth grader, feeling helpless.

Later traced to a congenital condition, her brother’s illness and the frustration she felt helped motivate the Bethesda teenager to be a catalyst for change in health care as a patient advocate and, someday she hopes, a nurse.

As she learned about other health care disparities, that aspiration grew. Dylan, now 17, was the first teen to serve on the Johns Hopkins Patient and Family Advocacy Council and has been a member since 10th grade. Her ideas, since implemented, include patient emails being directed to specific clinicians rather than a general inbox, and health care providers encouraging teens to download the portal app during appointments.

She is doing an internship in nursing research on the impact of mindfulness on cancer patients at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C., and shadows nurses there. Last summer, while in a Georgetown University nursing academy, she created a suicide prevention infographic to educate future students.

“Dylan shows tremendous leadership,” says Lynn Huang, who has been Dylan’s Girl Scout troop leader for six years and watched her found a Daisy troop at her former elementary school. “She steps up to make the world a better place in pretty much everything she does.”

Contending that a school policy ban-

ning students from bathroom visits during the first and last 10 minutes of classes is punitive for those with menstrual periods, she founded Cycle Without Stigma, a club at B-CC dedicated to equity around menstrual periods— and got the administration to make exceptions to the rule. Dylan is class secretary and a captain of her school’s varsity tennis team.

For her Girl Scout Gold Award project, Dylan developed a workshop for 8- to 12-year-olds about menstrual health through I Support the Girls, a local nonprofit that provides supplies to women in need.

While going through security at Capital One Arena to attend a Washington Capitals game, her rape alarm,

considered a “noisemaker,” was confiscated. Dylan wrote to NHL franchises explaining that the alarms are safety devices and should not be banned. Some arenas updated their policies, and the NHL added the issue to the agenda of its leaguewide security meeting, she says. “That was another thing where I was like, ‘Wow, the world really needs someone to speak up for women,’ ” Dylan says. Dylan has been accepted to the University of Virginia and plans to study nursing.

—R.L.F.

Blakely Pfaff Rockville High School

BLAKELY PFAFF WAS IN the car at a drive-thru when her mom noticed Blakely’s entire body quickly convulse. Blakely, a seventh grader at the time, brushed it off as an intense shiver—something she’d experienced with less severity for as long as she could remember.

But from that moment on, the convulsions intensified, and she started to slap things around her and shout. Soon diagnosed with Tourette syndrome, Blakely wrestled with anxiety and embarrassment as she learned strategies for managing the sudden, repetitive and involuntary movements called tics.

“We had to ban the word ‘Tourette’s’ because the more you acknowledge it, the more it’s going to show up,” recalls the Rockville High School senior, who lives in Rockville.

After years of therapy to manage the neurological disorder, Blakely, now 18, uses the word regularly.

Blakely speaks to law enforcement, women’s groups and elementary schools to help destigmatize Tourette’s as a national youth ambassador for the Tourette Association of America. She has lobbied on Capitol Hill for Tourette’s research and special education funding, hosted fundraising events to support research and youth programming, and promoted Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month on television.

“Blakely has a natural magnetic ability to lead that draws people in,” says Rockville High School Principal Rhoshanda Pyles, “and what makes her truly extraordinary is that she has turned her own perseverance into a blueprint for others to follow, proving that her character is defined not by the obstacles she has faced, but by the incredible light she chooses to put back into the world.”

Blakely uses her voice musically as well. A classically trained, five-time Maryland all-state vocalist, she is president of the Rockville High School choral program and received the school’s 2025 Choral Director’s Award. She created Vocal Point, the school’s first student-run a cappella group, and has had the lead role in five musicals, including community theater and school productions.

With a passion for meteorology, Blakely created a “What’s the Weather?” segment for WRAM Rockville and was one of 18 students nationwide to attend the PBS Student Reporting Lab Academy. She’s been accepted to The University of Oklahoma, where she plans to study meteorology.

“You either do the thing or you don’t,” says Blakely, who was the second runner-up in Miss Maryland’s Teen 2025 competition. “There’s no in-between.”

—R.L.F.

BETHESDA INTERVIEW

A CONVERSATION WITH

MAGGIE ROSE

THE SINGER-SONGWRITER FROM POTOMAC DISCUSSES GRINDING TOWARD SUCCESS, MOTHERHOOD, AND THE JOYS AND CHALLENGES OF MAKING MUSIC

BY MIKE UNGER

Maggie Rose’s rise to acclaim in the music world has been methodical, not meteoric. Blessed with an angelic voice, the singer, who was raised in Potomac, harbors an outwardly fearless ambition that led her to drop out of college and move to Nashville to chase her dreams. Although success eventually followed, she wasn’t an overnight sensation; there were plenty of speed bumps along the way. But nearly two decades after arriving, Rose, 37, has become a fixture in Music City’s music scene—and beyond.

Despite all that, when she returns to Montgomery County, she’s not even the biggest star in her own family. That distinction would go to her son, Graham, who was born in April 2025. During a recent interview with Bethesda Magazine at Old Angler’s Inn, the historic Potomac restaurant just a few miles from where she grew up, Graham was being tended to by another person Rose feels endlessly fortunate to have in her life: her husband and manager, Austin Marshall. Her nostalgia for the restaurant runs especially deep because it’s where she played one of her first solo gigs in the area after moving to Nashville, where she still lives. Even though there was a pretty good crowd that day, it was a far cry from the thousands who pack the Tennessee city’s legendary Grand Ole Opry, where she has performed more than 100 times.

Still, she always cherishes coming home, no matter where her career takes her.

“In the earlier years, there was a bittersweet edge to it because I felt like I was returning to a life that I had diverged from,” she says of visiting Montgomery County. “I always have felt very strong, resounding support from

my community here, but I’d chosen such a different path from what a lot of my friends had chosen. Now I think that people have a better grasp on what it is that I’m doing and that this hard work is paying off. They feel like it’s their victory to share when a lot of these good things happen.”

Happen they have. In 2024, Rose’s album No One Gets Out Alive was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Americana Album category. Rolling Stone named it one of the best albums of 2024. Although she didn’t win, the Grammy nomination brought new recognition to her poignant songwriting and soulful singing. Another Grammy nomination in 2025, this time for Best Americana Performance for the duet “Poison In My Well” with Grace Potter, followed without a win. Rose has performed with the Nashville Symphony, at such A-list events as the Newport Folk Festival and Austin City Limits, and on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

It’s been a wild ride for Rose, who was born Margaret Rose Durante. And she never forgets that it started in the place she’s sitting right now.

“I know that I wouldn’t have fallen in love with singing or pursued it at all,” she says, “if I hadn’t had the community that I had growing up.”

Bethesda Magazine spoke with Rose at Old Angler’s Inn in November. The interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Did people think you were crazy to so vigorously pursue a career in music at such a young age?

I think there was definitely an ‘Oh, she’s taking a big swing’ kind of mentality about it. But people really enjoyed when I shared my ability to sing with them. Every sleepover we went to, every big get-together

we’d have, all my friends would be like, ‘Margaret, you have to sing something.’ I tried out for American Idol when I was 16. I barely made the age cutoff. And I remember everyone just kind of rallying around me and hoping that that would have panned out.

How far did you get in American Idol ?

I think I had my bracelet cut in the first round. I was singing Mariah Carey’s ‘Always Be My Baby.’ I was sleeping on the Washington, D.C., convention center floor, with my parents taking shifts. And the guy basically said to me, ‘Come back next year. You just look like a baby.’ And I did at the time.

It was probably fortuitous that that didn’t happen because I got to forge my own path. I have mixed feelings about all of those programs anyway in terms of what they do to the contestants and the artists and the binding deals that they enter into.

I feel like I’ve had a guardian angel looking over me throughout my entire time since moving to Nashville. Things that felt like disappointments initially have allowed me to have much more freedom and control over my career. The music I’m making is a little bit left of cen-

ter of what you typically would consider music from Nashville to be, but it’s proven to be a very sustainable career for me. I’ve just continued to be able to tour and release albums, and I’m finishing my fifth studio full-length album [scheduled to be released this summer]. Having that staying power, I think, is because things were very intentional after a certain point.

When did you realize that you had this great voice?

I was really little. I remember as a 3-yearold having the power to silence a room of adults. There’s something physical about making this big sound that feels really fulfilling, and I crave it. I think the support of the people around me growing up made me realize that was something special.

Did you grow up in a musical household?

I can’t say that my family members are musical in the sense that they are singers or players, but they are very celebratory about music. There is music always playing in the house—good music, too. My mom loved the Beatles, the Stones, the Judds, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Bonnie Raitt. We were big fans of Frank Sinatra. I also feel like I grew up in a time where female vocalists were reigning supreme.

ABOUT

NAME: MAGGIE ROSE

FROM: POTOMAC

LIVES IN: NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

AGE: 37

HIGH SCHOOL: GEORGETOWN VISITATION

PREPARATORY SCHOOL

OCCUPATION: SINGER-SONGWRITER

FAMILY: HUSBAND, AUSTIN MARSHALL; SON, GRAHAM

We had the Chicks, Shania, Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston. Everywhere I looked, I felt like female voices were celebrated.

Do you remember the first song that you wrote?

Yes, I do. There’s a song called ‘One Way Love.’ Now that I’m not as harshly critical of my previous self, I think there’s a really great sense of melody in it. It’s a song about unrequited love. There’s a lot of passion in the writing of that first song, and I’m proud of that aspect of it, but I will probably never play it or share it with anybody.

As a teenager you performed frequently with a Bruce Springsteen tribute band called the B Street Band. Was that your first experience in an ensemble?

Yes. That’s what allowed me to start writing original music, because I had this group of musicians who were able to help me bring the most elementary-sounding songs to life. I left the Springsteen material to them mostly because Glenn Stuart, who recently passed away, was the front man and he had the stance down. He looked exactly like Bruce Springsteen. He had it covered.

The B Street Band allowed me to sneak in some originals to see how the crowd reacted—if they’d put down their beer for a second and look over. I was also wearing a little sundress and didn’t even know how to stand onstage. That was my crash course into having a presence; before I had this initiation into live performing, I looked at singing like something that had

to be technically very perfect and pretty and coiffed. I realized that singing perfectly and hitting all those technical points is like 20% of performing.

You dropped out of Clemson University and moved to Nashville when you were 19 years old. Was that a scary decision? Yeah. Being young and stupid, you thought you had made it kind of at that point. My parents are very sensible, supportive people. Both my sisters are attorneys. I think that probably was a shock to them. They probably were not sleeping for months. But they at least presented a facade that they were totally confident in me.

I felt like I had to grow up really fast because I was 19 and all of a sudden everyone else in the room was 35 or older. Nashville was a very different town than it is now. It’s become much more diverse, and the music scene has widened tremendously, which is one of the reasons that I feel like I’m allowed to do what I do musically.

How did meeting Tommy Mottola, the music business icon, factor into your decision?

Tom Natelli [president and CEO of the Gaithersburg-based Natelli Communities real estate development firm, who along with his wife, Karen, helped finance Rose’s career] had a friend who kind of casually knew Tommy from some vacation property that they both have. I reached out to Tommy to see if he would listen to my demos, and we must have just hit him on a good day or he must have heard that raw talent that I suppose was there, because he called me when I was on my way to class at the beginning of my sophomore year and invited me to come perform these songs for him in his office, which was above Bergdorf [Goodman in New York City]. And I remember just being like, ‘OK, this is crazy. I’ll go perform for him.’ And he liked it enough. He was a liaison for me to meet all these people in Nashville that I worked with for the first couple of years of my career.

We all look back at our earlier work and see it through a different lens. When you revisit your first album, Cut to Impress, what are your thoughts of it now?

I’m proud of it. I really cared about making the best body of work that I could at

that time. But I also didn’t have free rein to do what I wanted to do creatively. There were so many rules that I had to bend to in that space. And I think that that persists with country music as it pertains to country radio.

Shortly after that album came out in 2013, in an interview with American Songwriter you said that you were in the process of learning to play guitar. Where are you in that process now?

I’m still taking lessons from the same woman. I took a long hiatus when I was touring so intensively over the last couple of years, but we resumed probably a year and a half ago. I feel much more capable. I mean, I’m not trying to shred, necessarily.

“Things that felt like disappointments initially have allowed me to have much more freedom and control over my career.”

–Maggie Rose

Although I did just get my first 335 hollow body Gibson guitar. I want to be able to, in any scenario, have a song that I want to present and feel self-sufficient enough to do so.

And also for songwriting. Some of the best songs that I’ve written, in my opinion, have been after I’ve just had a guitar lesson. But I have really great, talented bandmates, and at this juncture I’m not trying to be the lead guitarist in my band.

Is songwriting a process that you relish, fear, or does it fall somewhere in between? I love it. I’ve just finished the tracking for my next album, and I feel like all the songs I wrote within this six-month time period were gifts, you know?

It’s also cyclical. You might be on tour or you might be having a baby or helping someone else with their songs. But I

feel like it is a muscle, and you have to use it and make many attempts and just accept that many of those attempts will yield mediocre songs. It’s not a lost day’s work though. It’s just getting your reps in. One of the songs for this next record I wrote two days before I had my son. My husband was like, ‘I don’t know if you need to be going out of the house to write a song when he’s going to be born in two days.’ But what else am I going to do? This is such a vibrantly creative time. The day I wrote it I was so full of emotion and hormones. It was pouring out of me. After he was born, you are like, ‘Oh, these were the little songwriting angels that were helping you get exactly what you wanted.’ It’s a song that perfectly embodies all the conflicting emotions you’re having, of fear and anxiety and excitement and love and inadequacy and vulnerability. It’s all mashed together. Without songwriting, I don’t know that there would have been a conduit for me to get out all that intensity I was feeling that day.

What’s the name of that song?

It’s called ‘Half Moon.’ And he was born under a full moon. It’s about the waxing and waning of being a woman, and who am I going to be after he’s born? A lot of the album is about that because I started it when I was pregnant.

Your husband, Austin, is also your manager. How did you two meet?

We met in Nashville. We got engaged at the Bethesda Theater, actually, during one of my shows. I met him through music. He was managing a songwriter in Nashville at the time. We started dating pretty quickly. I brought him home to meet my family like a month after we started dating. They were big fans of his.

Where did the inspiration for your album No One Gets Out Alive come from?

This was the post-pandemic album. Our livelihoods as touring artists were threatened like so many industries. There was that terrible stress of, Are we ever going to be able to resume in a way like we had before?

No one was telling me to make this record. I didn’t have a record label at the time. It was just something that I felt like I had to do. And my friend ... who I grew

up with, her father was terminally ill with esophageal cancer. He passed away. It happened … like that. It felt like time to make something beautiful and just go for it. And that’s why it’s very symphonic and we had these beautiful string arrangements on it. It was one of those examples of all these songs just kind of coming together quickly because I was feeling that inspiration and that pull to tell a story.

Why do you think it was your breakthrough?

I think there’s lots of honesty in it. This was really my pivot from commercial country to this more Americana, adult contemporary pop route. I’ve been making music for such a long time that it takes people awhile to slowly recalibrate, to be like, ‘Oh, OK, this is the lane that she’s in.’ And there’s still understandably questions about what genre this is. That’s something that I think so many artists deal with, especially if you’re going to stick around and keep making music for a long time. You’re going to want to evolve and change.

How did you find out that you’d been nominated for your first Grammy?

I was pregnant and had just been dropped by the label I had released No One Gets Out Alive with three months after the album came out. It was some pretty devastating stuff. It’s one of those things that you think is the end of the world but actually ends up being the best thing that could have happened. Austin and I submitted for the Grammys without a label. We just were like, ‘Hey, let’s keep swinging for the fences.’ I was on a hike, and I got a call from Austin after I just had all these texts coming through because I had it on do not disturb. We both started crying. It was really special.

Impress who’ve been riding the wave of all these changes.

You get these compliments like, ‘You’re the best-kept secret in Nashville.’ You’re like, ‘Oh, thanks. Kind of. I’m trying really hard to not be.’ But there’s people in the

industry who’ve been pulling for me for a long time. The Americana Music Association gave me a nomination for Emerging [Act] of the Year, which we all laughed about because we’re like, ‘It’s not new artists, best new artists, it’s emerging artists.’ I think that distinction is important because it’s been a really big couple of years where I think people are understanding this music.

pened could have led to some destructive behavior. I seriously believe that knowing that I was going to be a mother made me recommit to my music, made me take the best care of myself, made me make sure I was surrounded by people who were going to make me the best version of myself.

It was all these things I should have been doing without knowing that he was coming. I think we should be mothering ourselves that way, regardless if there’s a baby on the way. We should prioritize creating an environment that we would want to bring a child into or someone that we love so deeply, which should be yourself.

That was the gist of this talk, but it was also a lot about how this industry, like so many, is not conducive to easing the burden of a working mother. I was so nervous before, because I was like, ‘Who am I to give a TED Talk?’

Did you have that memorized? Because it didn’t look like you were reading off teleprompters. No, they don’t let you, which I found out maybe a little late into the commitment. You have to have it memorized; you don’t want anything in your hands. And I had to sing in between. So I was trying to remember, OK, when does the song happen? I can’t just blaze through that. But I’m so happy I did it. It’s fun to do hard things. And that was one of the hardest things I’ve done.

Do you sing to Graham?

All the time.

What do you sing to him?

When did you start noticing that people were noticing you and your work? There’s always been a really great community that’s stuck with us. There’s even people who discovered me from Cut to

Your first child, Graham, was born in April. In November you released a TEDx Talk titled ‘Motherhood Isn’t a Transformation—It’s an Activation.’ What did you mean by that? Getting dropped by the label, thinking that everything was collapsing around me and that my favorite album was going to be totally cannibalized by what had hap-

I practice guitar in front of him a lot, which has actually helped my practicing habits because he’s such a great listener. He’s very mesmerized by this instrument. He loves the ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider.’ He loves a lot of the songs from No One Gets Out Alive, which is interesting because I’m sure he heard them constantly in utero

because I was touring the whole time. I sing ‘Sweet Symphony,’ which is the Joy Oladokun song that she does with Chris Stapleton. He really loves that one.

He just loves music. His bath time music is Real Jazz on SiriusXM. Sometimes I got to catch him at the right time, though, before I belt out a tune. You got to meet your audience where they are. At night, he’s ready to party a little bit.

You’ve had the opportunity to perform with such legends as Vince Gill and Grace Potter. Do you have one pinch yourself moment where you found yourself doing something you couldn’t believe you were doing?

Years ago I was invited to a charity golf tournament that Bill Murray holds with his brothers in St. Augustine, Florida. We’ve been the house band, and I was singing, and I remember looking over and Bill Murray just like creeps onstage and starts doing this crazy dance. He’s a good singer and obviously a great enter-

tainer. We’ve kind of become friends through this tournament over the years. The stories you hear about him showing up at a party and doing dishes, those are true. I was in New York City one time, and it was the first time I had a music video playing on a TV in Times Square. I went to lunch with Austin and [Murray’s] brother John. I turned around and there was Bill. He had lunch with us, and then he was gone.

You followed No One Gets Out Alive with the EP Cocoon. Where did the inspiration for that project come from?

From Graham. It was all written, recorded and released around his birth. The title suggests a lot of things: the cocoon, the transformation, the metamorphosis and the emergence after. But it’s also wanting to just be still for a moment and quiet, which is not something that we get to do. It was a little snapshot of a beautiful moment

that I wanted to have and document through music.

Each December you play shows at the Bethesda Theater. Are those more meaningful for you because you’re back home? They’re like their own special breed of show because we do our set of originals, but there is a segment that is set aside for Christmas music. There’s something so nostalgic about Christmas music and being able to perform it on a stage where I got engaged, in front of my sisters and my parents and my friends. We do two nights in a row, so whether I spend Christmas in Maryland or not that year, I still get to see so many people that I love, that I grew up with. Also, people who have become fans in D.C. are part of the family now, even though I didn’t know them before I started making music.

Mike Unger is a writer and editor who grew up in Montgomery County and lives in Baltimore.

CONGRATULATIONS TO EXTRAORDINARY TEEN ETHAN SHAW ’26

GEORGETOWN PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Georgetown Preparatory School is the nation’s oldest Catholic boarding and day school for boys in grades 9–12. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition, Prep educates the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—through rigorous academics, vibrant arts, competitive athletics, and spiritual formation.

North Bethesda, Maryland • gprep.org

Gilday Renovations

8820 Brookville Road | Silver Spring, MD 20910 301-565-4600 | Gilday.com

BIO

Kevin Gilday leads a team of seasoned architectural designers, interior designers and master craftsmen dedicated to delivering a transformational home renovation experience to every client. One of the most valuable services the company offers is helping clients prioritize their wish lists to arrive at a cohesive, buildable design concept.

OUR WORK

This Chevy Chase, D.C. luxury porch design fully expresses the architectural roots of its Victorian era main house down to the hand-crafted decorative rafter tails visible at the eaves. The staircase you see fanning out from the porch deck to the lawn is made of Ipe (Brazilian Walnut).

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Chase Builders

8750 Brookville Road | Silver Spring, MD 20910

301-588-4747 | ChaseBuilders.com | IG: @chasebuildersinc

BIO

Chase Builders is a premier home builder, with more than two decades of industry excellence. Our skilled professionals create customized, luxury homes, ensuring perfection from concept to completion. Committed to quality, innovation and exceptional service, trust Chase Builders for your dream home investment.

OUR WORK

Nestled in the prestigious Edgemoor neighborhood of Bethesda, this magnificent five-bedroom home epitomizes modern luxury and timeless elegance. Spanning three finished levels, the residence features a spacious family room, a breathtaking dining room complete with a walk-in wine cellar and a chef’s dream kitchen with an adjoining catering kitchen and fold-up pass-through window.

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Re-Bath Washington DC

1321 E. Gude Drive | Rockville, MD 20850 202-946-6078 | ReBath.com

BIO

Re-Bath Washington DC, proudly serving Montgomery, Prince George’s, Arlington and Fairfax counties, as well as Washington, D.C., creates stylish bathrooms tailored to each client’s needs. Remodels are completed in days, not weeks, and include a limited lifetime warranty. Each project begins with a free in-home consultation, transparent pricing and a full walkthrough of the installation process.

OUR WORK

Your bathroom should be your sanctuary—a place to start and end each day in peace, style and comfort. Whether you envision a sleek, modern retreat, or an accessible, functional space, we bring your bathroom remodeling dreams to life with flawlessly integrated design, masterful installation and a stress-free transformation. From tubs, showers, vanities and sinks to flooring and lighting, our team of trusted experts handles every detail, ensuring that your new bathroom is beautiful, functional and...zen.

We make remodeling effortless: explore exclusive designs from HGTV's Dave & Jenny Marrs, or create a custom look with top-tier products from Moen, MSI and Bertch. With our innovative 3D rendering technology, you can see your new bathroom take shape before construction even begins. Low-maintenance, luxurious DuraBath™ materials combine style, durability and easy cleaning, and our eco-friendly, water-saving fixtures keep performance high without inflating bills. ADA-compliant options ensure safety without sacrificing elegance. Visit our website to schedule your free in-home consultation.

Pinehurst Design Build

11716 Parklawn Drive | North Bethesda, MD 20852

301-383-1600 | info@pinehurstdb.com | PinehurstDB.com

BIO

At Pinehurst Design Build, experience and trust are the bedrock of our company. Our mission is to help clients reimagine their homes and provide a seamless remodeling experience, resulting in a new, harmonious space you love coming home to.

OUR WORK

Pinehurst Design Build completed an interior renovation of a mid-Victorian home in Georgetown, originally built in 1868. The team’s primary goal was to preserve historical features while adapting the space for contemporary living. The renovation included a complete kitchen remodel, the installation of a spiral staircase, updated bathrooms, a new butler’s pantry and a redesigned arched opening between the foyer and dining room.

To incorporate more space in the kitchen, we removed the masonry fireplace and installed a structural beam to support the fireplace above on the second floor. The kitchen design features blackened stainless-steel countertops and backsplash that contrast beautifully with the traditional elements, fostering a dynamic yet balanced aesthetic. Adjacent to the kitchen, the butler's pantry boasts custom brass countertops and an integrated sink.

The modified foyer opening, with custom-made plaster millwork, honors the home's original character while providing a focal point ideal for the owner’s artwork.

Sandy Spring Builders

4705 West Virginia Ave. | Bethesda, MD 20814 301-913-5995 | SandySpringBuilders.com

BIO

Sandy Spring Builders is the premier custom homebuilder in the area. We are an integrated, full-service team with 40 years of experience in bringing our clients’ vision to life. Our well-built homes make a lasting impression, proven by our vast portfolio and myriad awards including being selected multiple times as “Best Builder” in the Bethesda Magazine Best of Bethesda Readers Poll.

OUR WORK

This modern residence is defined by clean lines, natural materials and a strong connection between interior and exterior spaces. The home balances contemporary architecture with warmth and livability through extensive use of maple, limestone and expansive glazing. A central feature of the home is the foyer gallery space, created to showcase artwork. The light-filled foyer passage creates a gallery-like experience upon entry, using natural maple surfaces, carefully framed views and curated artwork to establish a sense of calm and arrival while drawing visitors toward the interior and landscape beyond.

The exterior composition emphasizes layered volumes, large window openings and seamless transitions to outdoor living areas, including a terrace, pool, and putting green that extends the home into its natural surroundings. Every detail—from the custom millwork to the refined material palette—was executed to support architectural clarity and everyday comfort, resulting in a timeless, thoughtfully crafted residence.

James McDonald Associate Architects, PC

10135 Colvin Run Road, Suite 200 | Great Falls, VA 22066

703-757-0036 | JamesMcDonaldArchitects.com

BIO

James McDonald Associate Architects (JMAA) specializes in creating custom homes and remodels that reflect each client’s unique vision and lifestyle. With an emphasis on collaboration, functionality and timeless design, the firm’s personalized approach has fostered a loyal client base, delivering homes that remain both beautiful and livable for years to come.

OUR WORK

Our firm specializes in designing homes to meet our clients’ specific needs and wants. From jewel box cottages to grand estates, we pride ourselves in providing excellent designs to meet our clients’ lifestyle. Our design talent and construction know-how allow us to design homes to meet any design style or direction.

This home built in the Washington metro region was completed last year. An open flowing plan filled with large floor-to-ceiling windows and recessing door walls allow the uninterrupted flow from interior space to outside living space. Open view corridors and modern floating staircase expand the interior interest throughout the home.

A.B.E Networks

12250 Wilkins Ave. | Rockville, MD 20852

301-495-0964 | ABENetworks.com

BIO

A.B.E. Networks, founded in 1991, is the Washington, D.C. area’s leading provider of residential and commercial technology design and integration. With more than 30 years of experience, we specialize in seamlessly blending smart home solutions, audiovisual systems, lighting control, security, motorized window treatments and automation with exceptional design and functionality.

OUR WORK

Since our founding, we’ve specialized in delivering state-of-the-art technology solutions tailored to fit the unique needs of both residential and commercial clients. Our design-driven approach ensures that technology enhances, rather than disrupts, the aesthetic and functionality of each space. We collaborate closely with architects, interior designers and builders to integrate sophisticated systems such as smart home automation, audiovisual installations, lighting and shading control, security cameras and dedicated home theaters, all while maintaining a seamless connection to the design vision. Our expert team ensures every installation is intuitive, user-friendly and built to evolve with emerging technologies. We believe in building lasting relationships with our clients, providing ongoing support to ensure systems continue to perform flawlessly. From design through implementation and into continuing care, we’re committed to delivering personalized solutions.

Chase Builders

Chase Builders is a premier home builder, with more than two decades of industry excellence. Our skilled professionals create customized, luxury homes, ensuring perfection from concept to completion. Committed to quality, innovation and exceptional service, trust Chase Builders for your dream home investment. Contact us today!

301-588-4747 | ChaseBuilders.com Instagram: @chasebuildersinc

Gilday Renovations

Led by Kevin Gilday, nationally recognized Gilday Renovations has spent 40 years fine-tuning a seamless design-build experience that combines the expertise of its architectural designers, interior designers and master craftsmen who are dedicated to delivering a transformational home renovation experience.

8820 Brookville Road | Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 301-565-4600 | Gilday.com

James McDonald Associate Architects

James McDonald Associate Architects bring their design excellence to the small additions and remodel’s as well as to the larger custom homes we design for our clients. It is about creating a space that fulfills our clients lifestyle and wishes. We work throughout the Maryland, D.C. and Virginia area.

10135 Colvin Run Road | Great Falls, Va. 22066 703-757-0036 | James@jamesmcdonaldarchitects.com JamesMcDonaldArchitects.com

Pinehurst Design Build

At Pinehurst Design Build, experience and trust are the bedrock of our company. Our mission is to help clients reimagine their homes and provide a seamless remodeling experience, resulting in a new, harmonious space you love coming home to.

11716 Parklawn Drive | North Bethesda, MD 20852

301-383-1600 | PinehurstDB.com

Michael P. Rouse, AIA NCARB Principal Architect

We're an award-winning residential architecture firm that listens—to you, your home, and your budget. Specializing in custom renovations, additions, and new homes, we work closely with clients to design functional, beautiful spaces that honor your home.

1232 Hamilton Street, NW| Washington, DC 20011 202-450-3126 | mike@mprarchitecture.com MPRArchitecture.com

Sandy Spring Builders

We are the premier custom homebuilder in the area with our integrated, full- service team. With over 40 years of experience and vast portfolio of well-built homes, our happy clients have made us Best of Bethesda every year since its inception. Our expertise is unmatched in the industry and we are proud to be our client’s “Builder for Life”.

301-913-5995 | SandySpringBuilders.com

Chesapeake Kitchen Design

Since 1978, Chesapeake Kitchen Design has offered Design. Construction and project management services to our customers. We are known for our outstanding workmanship and professionalism. Contact us today for a free estimate.

8001 Wisconsin Ave Suite 102 | Bethesda MD, 20814 Office 301-652-7880 | Cell- 301-518-3009 | Chesakitdes.com

Town & Country Movers

Town & Country Movers is a family-owned company with nearly 50 years of experience, offering white-glove moving services, secure storage, professional home staging, and comprehensive move management — delivering a seamless relocation experience from start to finish for clients across the DMV.

7650 Rickenbacker Drive | Gaithersburg, MD 20879 800-683-6683 | TownAndCountryMovers.com

Ballard + Mensua Architecture

Ballard + Mensua Architecture is a full-service architecture firm with a specialty in custom homes and renovations. Whether you are planning out an affordable home, crafting a dream house, considering an addition, or looking to thoughtfully preserve a historic property, our team can assess your needs and bring your project to life.

5185 MacArthur Blvd., NW, Ste 370| Washington, D.C. 20016 202-810-6555 | BallardMensua.com

Monarch Prime

We are a residential remodeling firm focused on a high-touch client experience. Through our construction-forward, design-build approach, we pair big-picture planning with precise execution. We deliver well-crafted and mindful homes shaped by careful coordination, technical expertise, and attention to detail.

301-208-0348 | info@monarchprime.com MonarchPrime.com

Wilets Architecture

Wilets Architecture creates custom residential and community buildings, crafting inspired spaces for people who live, work, and play within. Our architectural vision, construction knowledge, and collaborative process propel projects from concept to completion, improving lives and adding value to communities.

Scott Wilets, AIA | Bethesda, MD 20817 | 301-980-4823 info@wiletsarchitecture.com | WiletsArchitecture.com

Cabin John Builders

Cabin John Builders crafts exceptional renovations, additions, and custom homes for discerning homeowners in the Washington region. Our team pairs meticulous workmanship with an openbook, highly collaborative process—bringing clarity, confidence, and beautiful results to complex projects.

301-637-3566 | josh@cabinjohnbuilders.com CabinJohnBuilders.com

Natelli Homes, LLC

Natelli Homes – offering personalized and trusted design and building services for custom homes and renovations for nearly four decades. The quality brand known throughout the Washington, D.C. market now serves Bethany, Rehoboth and the Delaware beaches.

301-938-5933 | NatelliHomes.com

Logan Design & Build

Logan Design & Build specializes in high-end renovations and additions that reimagine how homes function and feel. Led by founder Jimmy Pomponio, LDB integrates design, engineering, permitting, and construction under roof; delivering an accountable, start-to-finish process defined by strategy, precision, and transparency.

Potomac, MD | info@logandb.com | LoganDB.com

Washington Marble & Granite Co.

Washington Marble & Granite is a fullservice stone and quartz fabricator offering selection support, fabrication, and installation. Located north of the I-270 spur, WMG specializes in countertops, fireplaces, wall cladding, and tile, serving the Washington, DC area for 40 years. Owners Ron and Michael Ganassa have an aptitude for high-end quality work and exception customer service, with the ability to tackle just about any project.

10088 Tyler Ct, Ijamsville, MD 21754 301-831-1323 | info@washingtonmarble.com

Glickman Design Build

With over four decades of experience, Glickman Design Build specializes in wholehouse renovations, interior and accessible design, aging-in-place remodels, and additions. We deliver tailored, high-end solutions that blend style, comfort, and practicality.

15757 Crabbs Branch Way | Rockville, MD 20855| 301-444-4663 info@glickmandesignbuild.com | GlickmanDesignBuild.com

Renovation specialists with a fresh take on home aesthetics and a soulful, creative approach to how home improvement is experienced. The STRUCTURE team has a reputation for high quality, highly customized projects that shine with undeniable style. This boutique renovation and home building firm provides the keys to a well-loved home.

4810 Creek Shore Drive | North Bethesda, MD 20852 240-994-1520 | info@structurecustomhomes.com StructureCustomHomes.com

Elie Ben Architecture

An award-winning Architecture firm, designing custom & speculative homes to promote a timeless, intuitive living experience. Our goal is to cherish client's expectations and design a living space that is both inspiring and functional. Contact us for consultation about your project.

202-860-7050 | ElieBenArch.com

Your guide to eating and drinking well

Dining

Beyond Basic Bowls

Chevy Chase’s new spot for Japanese eats

BY TODD KLIMAN

Walking into Shibuya Eatery, you might think you’ve wandered into a Japanese Chipotle. The open dining room has the cool, minimalist look of a chain, and as you proceed to the back (there’s no host and no server), you’ll find the famil -

iar quick-dispense setup behind glass that defines the bowl-driven restaurant: meats, toppings, sauces. The feeling that you’ve experienced this all before at other fast-casual spots is reinforced when you tap your order into one of two touchpads.

But then out comes the food, and with it the realization that those first impressions are wrong (as first impressions so often are). Shibuya might look the part, but unlike most of the Chipotle knockoffs that have proliferated over the past decade, it’s

got personality. And authority. The flavors are true and deep, and there’s real conscientiousness and craft in the execution. There’s a reason Shibuya comes across as the product not of a corporation but of a detail-fanatical chef, and that’s because it is one. Its creator, Darren Lee Norris, founded and helmed Kushi, the first modern izakaya in Washington, D.C., in the late aughts—a pulsing, industrial spot that broke the norm of sacramental serenity dominating the city’s Japanese restaurants for four decades and ushered in a new age. Norris closed Kushi in 2014, opening three more places in D.C., including a first iteration of Shibuya Eatery, a mid-level restaurant in Adams Morgan that recalled the energy and vitality of Kushi in its heyday. But post-lockdown D.C. has become, more than ever, a scene of extremes—splurge dining at the top and grab-and-go eats at food halls, food trucks and fast-casual joints at the low end, with the culinary middle class often struggling to find an audience. Unwilling to scale up to survive, Norris closed the original Shibuya and, in September, reopened it as a fast-casual spot on Willard Circle. The city’s loss is Chevy Chase’s gain.

There are countless spots in Montgom-

ery County to get ramen but few with the resounding depth of this one. Norris’ pork broth is built on a foundation of ham hocks, ham bones and pigs’ feet, which he simmers for 24 hours, pureeing some of the meat back into the final broth for texture and umami intensity. It’s an achievement all its own, and you’d be happy with a bowl of just broth. You can do that, if you wish (Norris has made it its own menu item), but then you’d miss out on the soft slices of chashu pork belly (marinated for 24 hours, cooked sous vide for 12), the fresh noodles, with their wonderful springy chew, and the perfectly coddled egg.

THE FLAVORS ARE TRUE AND DEEP, AND THERE’S REAL CONSCIENTIOUSNESS AND CRAFT IN THE EXECUTION.

The find here is the mazemen, rarely seen in this area. Imagine a bowl of ramen with all its accoutrements; now convert that broth to a sauce, allowing the other components in the bowl (those same noodles and coddled egg, but also gorgeous batons of koji-cured carrots, thin strips of crunchy-tangy radish, grilled kernels of corn) to come forward and show their worth.

Noodles and broth make up most of the dishes on the menu, but not all. You can’t come and not get the curry katsu donburi, with its tender sliced cutlets of pork and chicken, blanketed by a rich, vividly spiced yellow curry yet still retaining their panko-fried crunch. You’d also be remiss not to get the onigiri, which Norris has turned into his own version of a snack food—pull the tab on the plastic wrap, releasing a square of seaweed, and use it to enfold a soft ball of tuna-filled rice. It’s fun and it also serves a purpose: The wrapper keeps the seaweed crisp by separating it from the rice; the crunch, when you take that first bite, is audible a table away.

Shibuya Eatery, 4461 Willard Ave., Chevy Chase, 240-858-4720, shibuyafood.com

A mezcal flight at Taqueria Sabor Mixteco

A Medley of Mezcal

The smoky spirit gets top billing at this Mexican restaurant

BY TODD KLIMAN

At a glance, and from a distance, the top shelves behind the bar at Taqueria Sabor Mixteco in Silver Spring (right next to Wheaton Triangle) look like any other: an assortment of spirits just waiting to be poured over the rocks or turned into a cocktail. But come closer: Every bottle here is mezcal.

Lower down, sure, you’ll find gin, whiskey and vodka, but mezcal takes pride of place because Juan Solano, 55, who coowns the restaurant with partners Apolinar Cervantes and Marisol Gonzales, is intent on changing the reputation of a drink that he believes is woefully misunderstood and dismayingly simplified in this country.

“Mezcal is not just smoke and fire,” Solano says. “I want people to know the different flavors.”

Despite the small percentage of mezcals that find their way into the U.S. from Mexico, and an additional obstacle in the county regulating which brands he’s permitted to buy, Solano has curated a small but impressive roster of bottles that hint at the vast range of this ancestral spirit.

Among the best is 400 Conejos, an ensamble, or blend, of espadin and tobala, two varieties of agave that were roasted, crushed, fermented and distilled together. It comes on almost like a sake, clean and smooth, its smoke confined to the back, where it adds dimensionality to the drink, rather than dominating. If you order it, Solano will insist that you sip it neat. He’ll bring you a small ceramic glass, along with (and per tradition) chili-flecked slices of orange to nibble on before you sip.

Another star of the collection is the Banhez, an ensamble of angustifolia and karwinskii. As with the 400 Conejos, it doesn’t lead with fire. The fire’s there, but more in the way of slow, smoldering embers. Front and center is a grassy, oaky character, akin to some of the small-batch artisanal rums that have come onto the market in recent years or to some expressions of chardonnay.

Solano welcomes my reference to chardonnay and says he wants to show his audience that mezcal, just like wine, is a product of terroir.

“This is a complex drink,” Solano says. “More complex than many people imagine. I hope people, when they come here and try, they see that.”

What they will see, as well, is a restaurant that minds the details and delivers on multiple levels. Start with the tortillas— made daily by hand using Maseca—which elevate everything they touch, from the excellent tacos to the soul-satisfying enchiladas.

You could walk away happy with just a stack of tortillas, thin and warm, and a bowl of the irresistible queso. Tear a piece off and dip it into the velvety melt and give yourself a cheese pull that would be the envy of any Instagram influencer.

Don’t miss out on the chicken mole, its cocoadark sauce hitting the palate with tang, nuttiness, sweetness and bitterness; the tamales, with their optimal balance of creaminess and crumbliness; and the alambre, reminiscent of fajitas— but richer, and bearing a blanket of faintly smoky melted cheese.

Solano is from Oaxaca, Mexico, one of the world’s great culinary bastions, but he hails from the western countryside not the urban center, and the cooking reflects it. These plates are deep, true and homespun—qualities enhanced by Solano, who patrols the room, cracking jokes, filling drink orders and making recommendations.

The best way to end a meal here, other than with a textbook tres leches, is with a mezcal—more specifically, with a curadito, a staple of the Mixteca region. In Mexico, mezcal is typically sipped before dinner, as a kind of aperitif, and after dinner, as a digestif. The curadito is a digestif dessert, if you will, made with one of Solano’s chosen mezcals and tamarind juice. It’s

and lightly sweet and because there’s smoke but no fire, you may drink it way too fast.

Sabor Mixteco , 2462 Ennalls Ave., Silver Spring, 240-500-3833, sabormixteco.com

Read Before You Renovate: Contract Clauses Every Homeowner Should Understand

Building a new home, or transforming the one you already love, is more than a design choice. It is a major financial commitment made at a time when rising material costs, labor shortages, extended lead times, and broader economic pressures continue to drive construction prices higher. With so much at stake, careful planning is not optional, it is essential.

From the outset, choosing the right contractor and architect, clearly defining the scope of work, and setting realistic specifications and timelines can mean the difference between a smooth build and a costly, stressful experience. At the center of it all is the construction contract. This document is far more than fine print; it is the roadmap for your project, spelling out expectations, responsibilities, and protections for both the homeowner and the contractor.

When negotiating a construction contract, homeowners should pay close attention to several key provisions:

• P Project timeline Clearly define the start date and the date of substantial completion. Consider incentives for finishing on time, as well as liquidated damages, which is an agreed-upon daily cost if the project runs past the deadline.

• M Materials and finishes Specify the exact materials, fixtures, finishes, and color selections you want, and address how substitutions or delays will be handled if certain items become unavailable.

• P Pricing and payments Outline the total contract price, required deposits, overhead or administrative fees, and the schedule for progress payments. The contract should also describe how change orders are approved and paid, as well as the terms for final payment.

• W Warranties Define what the contractor is warranting, how long the warranty lasts, and what it covers.

• I Indemnification Include language requiring the contractor to indemnify and hold the homeowner harmless from losses arising from the contractor’s negligence or work performed on the property.

• T Termination rights Provide a clear path for terminating the contract if the contractor breaches or defaults on the contract.

• D Dispute resolution Address attorneys’ fees in the event of a dispute, and specify the governing law, venue, and jurisdiction for resolving any contractrelated issues.

A thoughtfully negotiated construction contract does more than protect your investment. It provides a clear framework for navigating the inevitable bumps along the way, minimizing disruptions and helping turn the vision of your dream home into a well-managed, successful reality.

Rib-Sticking Pleasures in Rockville

Pillowy

dumplings,

flaky meat pies, zesty noodles and more at Dolan Uyghur

BY TODD KLIMAN

There are only a handful of restaurants in the area that specialize in Uyghur cooking—which marries the flavors and traditions of Turkey with those of northwest China—and one group now owns four of them.

That would be Dolan Uyghur, whose enterprising owner, Hamid Kerem, 44, has capitalized on the appeal of the hearty, homey cooking of his culture and turned a surprise success in D.C.’s Cleveland Park into a mini-empire, with spinoff locations in Chantilly and

Falls Church in Virginia, and now in Rockville, which opened last August. (A fifth is on its way soon, in Virginia’s Crystal City.)

How has Dolan managed to thrive when so many mid-level restaurants are struggling just to survive? At least part of the explanation has to do with Kerem’s gift for balancing the warmth and accessibility of family dining with some of the comforts of fine dining. In Rockville, a museum-like display of cultural curios dominates the entranceway, glowing in dramatically lit cornices. In the dining room, the eye goes immediately to the globe lights above, intricately ornamented in gold, which seem to have been lifted from a Turkish teahouse from the 1850s. The servers are unfailingly attentive and caring and speak in soft tones.

What Dolan is, at heart, is a mom-and-pop establishment, and you’d be wise to approach it accordingly. The cooking, more homestyle than haute and built upon noodles, breads and dumplings, excels in the kind of deep, rib-sticking pleasures that you might find, if you’re lucky, at a communal table in another country.

The kitchen evinces little interest in the kinds of touches that dining out generally trades on—the exuberant zigzags of sauce, the architectural stacking of components on the plate. Several dishes are served atop little more than a bed of limp mixed greens.

I don’t say any of this as a slight—simply to focus your expectations.

In a way, it’s a wonder that Dolan Uyghur exists at all. A decade ago, as the Chinese government pursued a policy of mass detention of the Uyghurs—ethnically Turkish, and with roots more than a thousand years deep—from Xinjiang, Kerem learned that he had been blacklisted and fled, leaving behind 15 import-export businesses. He came to the U.S., eventually settling in D.C. The restaurant world was unfamiliar to him, but he did know how to run a business, and when he saw that a Uyghur restaurant in Cleveland Park was for sale, he bought it. The fact that he didn’t know how to cook didn’t deter him. A three-month crash course ensued, as he learned the fundamentals of his cuisine from the man who’d sold him the place and frantically searched for recipes on YouTube.

If this accidental chef lacks for deep, technical know-how, he has sought to make up for it with a kind of earnest soulfulness, trading on the rarity of a

cuisine that most people know nothing about.

When you’re eating a Uyghur meal, there are times when you might think you are eating Turkish food (the rich brown gravies, the seasoned cuts of lamb), and other times when you would swear you are eating Chinese food, and still other times when a dish seems to draw from both of its sources at once.

The menu seems sprawling until you realize that many of the preparations are the same dish, just packaged in different ways. The piter manta, six hearty dumplings filled with loosely packed ground lamb seasoned with loads of black pepper and soft-cooked onions, is different from the samsa (flaky, handheld meat pies with the same filling) only in that one uses a dough that is steamed and the other a dough that is baked. Both are terrific and are must-haves for any visit—duplication be damned.

Another must-have is the korma chop, which isn’t a chop at all, but a tangle of long chewy noodles that have been tossed until gloriously sticky with a zesty, chili-spiked sauce, along with loads of onions, garlic and green peppers and your choice of shrimp, pork or chicken (though in truth the dish is just as wonderful without meat).

Diner beware: All that dough and bread and noodles adds up quickly, so you’ll want to order lightly at first and reassess halfway through. And skip dessert. Though the menu lists no fewer than 18 cakes and pies, most are workman-like and tend toward the heavy.

Better to load up on the dumplings, meat pies and noodles and end the meal with a pot of excellent tea, which will be brought to the table with a smile and in small, delicate cups. And which may leave you, as it did me, in a place of quiet contemplation— oblivious, at least for a few peaceful minutes, of the cares of the world.

Dolan Uyghur, 20-A Maryland Ave., Rockville, 301-284-3805, dolanuyghur.com

Alvin L. Aubinoe, Inc.

The Mercury at Wildwood 10339 Old Georgetown Road | Bethesda, MD 20814 301-652-9000 | nickdively@thegerdesteam.com MercuryatWildwood.com

BIO

Founded in 1939, this family owned and operated company has been focused on property development and management with an affinity for luxury and art deco design.

OUR WORK

-Boutique apartments

-Senior living

-Below ground parking

-EV stations

-Mezzanine business lounge

-Private clubhouse for social events

-Fully-equipped fitness center

-Rooftop lounge

-Pet friendly with walking area

This building is inspired by American Modern Deco design. Artisan craftsmanship with attention to detail throughout. Just steps away from Wildwood shopping center with every convenience.

Luxury Condos, Apartments and Townhomes

Sophia Bethesda

4924 St. Elmo Ave. | Bethesda, MD 20814 888-891-1655 | SophiaBethesda.com

BIO

Brand new studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom residences and penthouses in the heart of downtown Bethesda.

OUR WORK

Bethesda, meet Sophia. Sophia Bethesda is a refined expression of modern living, where art deco inspiration meets contemporary elegance in the heart of downtown Bethesda. Rising 23 stories above the city, Sophia stands as a striking architectural landmark, thoughtfully designed for those who appreciate beauty in both detail and scale. The community offers a curated collection of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences, along with penthouse homes, featuring spacious layouts, light-filled interiors, elevated finishes, and private balconies with sweeping city views. Each residence is intentionally composed, with sleek kitchens and refined materials that balance sophistication and comfort. Beyond the apartment homes, Sophia’s boutique-style amenities create spaces for calm, connection and everyday luxury. Perfectly positioned near Bethesda’s premier dining, shopping and transit, Sophia places culture and convenience just outside your door. This is elevated living, designed to be experienced.

Intrigued? Schedule your tour today!

Hampden House

4700 Hampden Lane | Bethesda, MD 20814 | 877-703-3563 leasing@hampdenhouse.com | HampdenHouse.com

BIO

Hampden House invites you to behold an Art-Deco inspired display of artful synergy between architecture and design. Voluminous spaces and timeless motifs reveal warmth, thoughtful detail and gracious hospitality. Steps from Bethesda Row’s shops, eateries and entertainment, and minutes from the Bethesda Metro, Hampden House brings it all to you.

OUR WORK

A new standard for luxury living arrives in the heart of Bethesda. At Hampden House, a dramatic two-story lobby featuring hundreds of Italian handcrafted crystals creates a memorable arrival, complemented by 24-hour concierge and doorman service. Designed for both comfort and connection, amenity spaces include mezzanine lounges, private workspaces and a conference room. Wellness is seamlessly integrated with a top-tier fitness center and yoga studio offering towel service. A penthouse level clubroom opens to a rooftop pool and wraparound terrace with fireplaces and outdoor kitchens for relaxing and entertaining. Apartments range from studios to three-bedroom layouts and offer two curated finishes with white shaker or walnut cabinetry, quartz countertops, gas ranges and built-in islands. Penthouse residences offer upgraded features like wine fridges and additional storage. Steps from Bethesda Row’s premier shopping and dining and located between two Metro stations, this is refined Bethesda living defined by design, distinction and location.

Good Life

Shopping, travel, wellness and more

THE Cherry

Blossom EDIT

A curated mix of rosy-toned essentials and floral touches inspired by spring’s most anticipated moment

BY JACQUELINE MENDELSOHN

BOHO BLOOM

Slim Audrey Tunic in fuchsia, $328 at Johnny Was, 4867 Bethesda Ave. (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 301-263-3505, johnnywas.com

RED BLOSSOM

Little Journeys Chicago floral velvet bag, $30 at Oak, 10511 Metropolitan Ave., Kensington, 301-933-0281, oaktheshop.com

SHEER DELIGHT

Blossom Pants, $198 at Free People Movement, 7228 Woodmont Ave. (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 301-664-4813, freepeople.com

PETAL FAN

Cherry Blossom deeper pink scarf, $40 at Ibhana, 1776 E. Jefferson St. (Federal Plaza), Rockville, 301-424-0906, ibhana.net

FLORAL FLIRT

Orla Dress in floral daydream, $248 at J. McLaughlin, 4851 Bethesda Ave. (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 301951-5272; 10243 Old Georgetown Road (Shops at Wildwood), Bethesda, 301-263-3304, jmclaughlin.com

CRIMSON KISS

Akira top in berry hibiscus, $148 at Rails, 4852 Bethesda Ave. (Bethesda Row), Bethesda, 240-858-4165, rails.com

GARDEN GLAM

Current Air floral cap sleeve dress, $110 at Apricot Lane Boutique, 7951 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), Potomac, 240-796-2060, apricotlaneboutique.com

A red-eyed vireo, one of many bird species that may be observed around The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle in Pennsylvania’s Bald Eagle State Park

INTO THE

WILD

DISCOVER BIRDING, NATURE HIKES AND CHARMING SMALL TOWNS IN RURAL PENNSYLVANIA

BY AMY BRECOUNT WHITE

The sun is barely up, but I can already see boats heading out on a picturesque lake as the mist rises from its surface, and hear a meadow abuzz with chirps, twills, warbles and tweets from the balcony of the eco-lodge where I’m staying. Seems I’m not the only early bird this June morning at The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, tucked inside Pennsylvania’s Bald Eagle State Park.

From my perch, I note the presence of at least 14 distinct bird species—including indigo bunting, yellow warbler, American redstart, barn swallow, red-eyed vireo and common yellowthroat—identifying their calls with my trusty Merlin app. A flutter of bright yellow is likely a goldfinch, but I’m hoping to catch a glimpse of a warbler or bunting. As an amateur birder, I don’t have the drive to keep a “life list” of all the winged creatures I’ve seen, but I do enjoy a good game of hide-and-seek.

The north central stretch of the Keystone State, known as the “Pennsylvania Wilds,” was once a logging area. It’s now a 13-county conservation landscape peppered with small towns, including more than 2 million public acres of lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, wetlands and meadows. Though the Wilds make up 25% of Pennsylvania’s land area, only 4% of the state’s human population lives here. Instead, the local celebrities include elk, white-tailed deer, foxes, bobcats, black bears, beavers and, of course, birds. It’s a nature lover’s paradise.

SO MUCH OF BIRDING IS A MATTER OF LUCK. A bird’s mission, after all, is to stay camouflaged from predators. Yet, as I hike the inn’s mostly flat, 2.1-mile loop trail, I chastise myself for not being quicker to identify the darting and flitting avian creatures in my peripheral vision. I recognize the call of a wood thrush high in the branches. The sound is bittersweet. For years, I heard that melodious song in the thin band of Arlington, Virginia’s Zachary Taylor Park, where I volunteer as a park steward, but it’s been absent the last two. I worry the habitat has degraded, despite volunteer efforts to support its biodiversity with native plantings, invasive plant removal and other forms of habitat restoration. Returning my focus to the terrain in front of me, I study the trees. A server at breakfast shared that the loop trail leads to a 350-year-old swamp white oak, and I’m on the lookout for this impressive specimen. For a moment, I believe I’ve found it—until I spy another trunk nearly twice the diameter of the first, and take a seat on a nearby bench. The gnarled base of this old soul is twisted from centuries of persistence. (Its trunk measured more than 18 feet around when it was designated a state Champion Tree in 2016.) I sit in silence, almost expecting it to speak to me in a Tolkienesque way. Though it has some dead branches, its crown fills the sky overhead, and its underground root system is likely twice as vast.

EMERGING FROM THE WOODS AFTER HAVING HELPFULLY PULLED A FEW INVASIVE PLANTS (Illegal? I really don’t care), I head toward the resort’s Butterfly Trail. Birds pop up from the meadow grasses, flapping rapidly and descending back into the vegetation before I can get my binoculars up. Merlin identifies some by their song, but I want to see them.

A noisy red-winged blackbird swoops above, and I duck. Clearly, I’m too close to its nest and it’s agitated, so I scurry along. Lining the path ahead are at least half a dozen bluebird boxes. A bright male is perched atop one, keeping vigil.

Near a wet area, I smile at the twangy

Left: An aerial view of The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle at sunrise; Below: Take in views at Bald Eagle State Park.

mating call of a green frog. Despite the name of the trail, there are no butterflies to be seen, only grayish moths springing up from my footsteps to alight on higher ground. Amid the late-spring greenery, I recognize milkweed and other host plants for insects that haven’t yet bloomed in this cooler clime. I’m a smidge too early for butterfly season, and there’s no nectar yet. The flora and fauna will be different in another week or two.

Continuing on, I pass a humanconstructed habitat of hollow, hanging white gourds, meant for cavity-nesting birds such as bluebirds and purple martins. Guarding this complex, a lone tree swallow eyes me suspiciously.

A Merlin alert indicates the presence of cedar waxwings, which travel en masse, and I sweep my binoculars toward their whistles and high-pitched cries. Bingo! There are at least a dozen of them, with their distinctive yellow tail bands. Fun fact: The occasional red droplets at the ends of their secondary wings resemble sealing wax, hence their name.

Later, looping back into woods, I hear the staccato cries of an indigo bunting in a pine tree, but I can’t spot it to save my life. A moment later, a hollow stuttering in the treetops turns out to be a yellow-billed cuckoo. I’m thrilled to have caught a mere glimpse of its shadow.

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & PLAY

Occupying nearly 6,000 acres of the Pennsylvania Wilds (pawilds. com), Bald Eagle State Park in Centre County has 14 miles of nature trails and a 1,730-acre lake for water sports such as boating, paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing. The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle (natureinnatbaldeagle.com), an eco-lodge inside the park, holds a LEED

Penn’s Cave is the only water-filled limestone cavern in the U.S.

gold rating from the U.S. Green Building Council, built with sustainable features such as geothermal heating and cooling, a solar water heater, rain gardens and a recycled steel roof. The inn offers year-round lodging with a bird’s-eye view of the lake and surrounding hills. Breakfast is included; box lunches, takeout barbecue and ready-to-grill dinner entrees are available for preorder. During the high season (April to October) and special birding events, the inn books up one to two years out. Not far from the inn (about a half hour by car) Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park (pennscave.com) is America’s only water-filled limestone cavern. Take an

underground boat tour to marvel at stalactites and stalagmites, flowstone, draperies and columns formed over thousands of years. The park also offers wildlife and offroad mountain tours and, for little ones, gemstone panning for semi-precious stones, fossils and arrowheads.

Soaring Eagle Wetland (centredoutdoors.org/ visit/soaring-eagle-wetland) has short, accessible walking trails and fishing platforms along Bald Eagle Creek.

Home to Penn State University and the famed Nittany Lions, State College is a lively college town (especially during football season) about 30 miles southwest of Bald Eagle State Park, and the anchor of a region known as Pennsylvania’s “Happy Valley.” It’s a good spot to overnight if state park lodging is full, or if you’re craving more nightlife than the company of nocturnal woodland creatures. Since its founding in 1931, the Georgian-style Nittany Lion Inn (thenittanylioninn.com) has hosted a veritable who’s who of guests, ranging from Robert Frost and Eleanor Roosevelt to Jack Nicholson and at least two U.S presidents.

A stroll about campus finds well-groomed streets with names such as Homecoming Drive, and curious signs on academic buildings. (One marked “Portal to the Earth, Energy, Material Sciences” left me wondering if stepping through its doors would lead to another dimension.)

Palmer Museum of Art (palmermuseum.psu.edu) boasts a collection of more than 11,000 objects and artifacts, from ancient Andean figurines to 20th-century works by Georgia O’Keeffe and Marsden Hartley. Wander the nearly 400-acre

Arboretum at Penn State (arboretum.psu.edu), with stops in its excellent Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden and the Pollinator and Bird Garden.

Just outside of town, the 4.7-mile Mount Nittany loop hike (nittany.org) is rocky and steep, climbing almost 1,000 feet in elevation. It’s a great workout with abundant birdsong, valley views and blooming mountain laurel in late spring. A wildlife-reporting chart listed several black bear and cub sightings, along with an alleged glimpse of “the Lorax” (I wish). For a gentler walk, try the 2.6-mile Hobie’s Trail loop at Colyer Lake (happyvalley. com/experiences/hobies-trail).

State College’s Allen Street Grill (allen streetgrill.com) serves artisanal fare such as pork chops with duck fat cassoulet and seafood linguini. Plant-based eaters will appreciate its vegetarian menu, which is more than an afterthought. With 80 beers on tap, you won’t go thirsty at Federal Taphouse (federaltaphouse.com), a popular campus watering hole above the Target store The

Penn State Berkey Creamery (creamery.psu. edu), part of the university’s Food Science department, is a local institution famed for scoops in flavors such as Alumni Swirl (vanilla ice cream with mocha chips and blueberry) and Grilled Stickies (cinnamon ice cream with sticky-bun pieces and streusel swirl).

Breakfast on Boal (breakfastonboal. com) in neighboring Boalsburg is a great place to start the day with a burrito with a zippy housemade green chile sauce, or biscuits with sausage gravy.

In Hublersburg, the Hublersburg Inn (hublersburginn.com) has a cozy bar and a casual outdoor dining area serving sweet potato fries, tacos, burgers and Philly cheesesteaks alongside local and seasonal brews, sometimes with live music. Goot Essa (gootessacheese.com) is worth a detour for artisanal cheddar, sheep, goat and Alpine cheeses. This is Amish country, so you’ll likely see a few horse-drawn buggies on the road.

The small town of Bellefonte (happy valley.com/bellefonte), founded in 1795, offers historic tours (localhistoria.com) with insights into its gorgeously preserved Victorian homes and fascinating Underground Railroad history. Along the river walk, the Gamble Mill Inn & Suites (gamblemillbelle fonte.com), tucked inside a stunningly renovated 1786 grain mill, is home to the farm-to-table restaurant Creek, and Republic, a craft cocktail bar. Stop by Bonfatto’s Italian Market and Corner Cafe (bonfattos.com) for espresso drinks, pastries and subs. After a riverside stroll in Talleyrand Park, grab a drink at Big Spring Spirits (bigspringspirits.com) or a craft brew at Axemann Brewery (axemann brewery.com).

Amy Brecount White enjoys immersive wildlife interactions of all kinds and views her Merlin birding app as a trusty travel companion.

DIRECTIONS: From Route 1 in Lewes or Rehoboth Beach take Route 24 West for approximately 8 miles. The entrance to

A New Focus

After getting a surprising diagnosis, a doctor who lives in Bethesda changed specialties to study her disease

BY KATHLEEN NEARY

For years, Marcela Ferrada tried to ignore her pain. A runner who competed in halfmarathons, Ferrada’s joints would hurt and she would have episodes she calls “weird.” There was a week when she couldn’t really move her hands. She had several miscarriages and each time would chalk up the strange symptoms she had afterward to hormonal changes. In 2012, Ferrada was an infectious disease fellow at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine when she developed a problem with her pancreas that took a month to get over. “I was sick for a long time. I just didn’t tell anybody because I guess you’re in denial because you don’t want to be sick, right?” she says. She figured she didn’t need to see a doctor—she was a doctor.

Ferrada, 46, who lives in Bethesda, was raised in Colombia by her father, a trauma surgeon, and her mother, a labor and delivery nurse. “I basically grew up around the hospitals,” Ferrada says. She attended medical school in Colombia and did her residency in internal medicine in Miami. That’s where she met her husband, Mark Hofmeyer, a transplant cardiologist.

Fascinated by infectious disease and critical care, Ferrada did a four-year fellowship that combined the two specialties at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda and at Hopkins.

In 2013, she became pregnant and told herself the aches and pains were part of

pregnancy. She started losing weight after her daughter, Sophia, was born and often had a fever and a bad cough. She was taking Tylenol regularly. Doctors thought it was asthma and gave her a steroid, which helped while she was taking it, but the symptoms returned when she stopped. “I just started having a tremendous amount of fatigue,” Ferrada says, which seemed to make sense with a new baby. She pushed through and ran a half-marathon when Sophia was 4 months old. She felt awful during the race and figured she was out of shape. The cough that wouldn’t go away must be allergies, she decided.

“I started coughing and coughing and coughing and coughing, up to the point that I broke two ribs,” she says. Her colleagues at NIH, where Ferrada had accepted a position in critical care, urged her to stop explaining away her symptoms. In 2015, she made an appointment with Dr. James Katz, a rheumatologist at NIH. “I was just feeling so weird telling him my symptoms, because I thought that I sounded crazy. … And then I said, ‘Well, that’s it, so I don’t know. I mean, you may be thinking that I am just imagining all of this.’ And he’s like, ‘No, you’re very sick.’ ” Katz diagnosed her with relapsing polychondritis (RP), a rare inflammatory disease that is systemic and can cause damage to cartilage and other tissues.

Learning as much as she could about the disease became her mission. “The only thing that kept me waking up in the morning was reading about this and then writing. I wrote a protocol to study the disease at NIH,” she says.

Ferrada wanted to help others who have RP, which she believes is underdiagnosed because doctors don’t always know to look for it. “I realized that I didn’t have the knowledge to help patients with this because I wasn’t a rheumatologist, and if I really wanted to make this better and study it, I needed to be a rheumatologist. So I got into rheumatology at NIH,” she says.

Ferrada helped start the first prospective study in the world of patients with RP, which included a series of planned questions for patients to be asked at their doctor visits; previous studies looked back at medical records or asked people about their history in surveys. As part of the study, Ferrada and her col -

leagues discovered VEXAS syndrome, a rare autoinflammatory genetic disease.

In the years since getting her RP diagnosis, Ferrada has had many periods of being sick. In September 2022, she started having strange symptoms, including changes in her behavior, such as her bathing regimen. “I usually take a shower twice per day. I decided that I was going to find out how many days you could [go] without taking a shower,” she says. Additionally, she says, “My tongue was paralyzed, and then my eye was paralyzed.” After several months of not knowing what was causing these latest symptoms and several hospital stays, she was diagnosed with encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain. While she was still trying to recover from that, she had a bout with COVID-19 in 2023 that took months to get over.

she was so sick and she knew that working full time was taking a toll. “There [were] probably four times that I thought that I was just going to die,” she says. “So when that

“GOING FROM EVERYTHING IS PERFECT, I HAVE PLANNED THE NEXT EIGHT YEARS OF MY LIFE, TO I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN TOMORROW—IT WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO ACCEPT THAT.”

row—it was very difficult to accept that.” Today, she turns to a combination of things that help her: medications, rest, building strength, eating healthy and meditating three times a day. “A lot of it sounds very simple, but it is not,” she says. Some days she is too tired to exercise or too busy to prepare healthy foods.

Ferrada left NIH later that year because

—Dr. Marcela Ferrada

happens, then everything is just so different. So going from everything is perfect, I have planned the next eight years of my life, to I have no idea what is going to happen tomor-

In May 2024, Ferrada started working part time at the University of Maryland Medical System in Baltimore. She sees patients at all stages of RP and other illnesses, such as vasculitis and autoinflammatory diseases, including VEXAS. Being a patient has taught Ferrada a lot about compassion and has changed the way she interacts with her patients. “I have a better understanding and introspection of what goes on in your mind when you’re a patient,” she says. “It’s easier for me to talk to patients because I know what is happening.”

Adventure Theatre MTC

Summer Camps

Watch your child take the stage with their friends in a two-week (or three-week), full day, in-person camp that culminates in a delightful ensemble musical.

Bethesda Country Day School

Campers enjoy hands-on activities, from science and nature exploration to creative and performing arts, sports, and games. We offer a perfect blend of exciting indoor and outdoor adventures. Special guests and oncampus events bring an extra layer of fun.

adventuretheatre-mtc.org/ 301-251-5766

Bethesda, MD bethesdacountry dayschool.com 877-959-3747

C-Unit Dance Studio

Join us for one or more of our summer camps/summer intensives from ages 3 & up. Intensives include celebrity guest choreographers!

Camp Tall Timbers

Voted one of the area’s best summer camps. ACA accredited. Variety of Sessions and Activities offered. Aquatics, Horseback riding, Sports, Aerial Park and Outdoor Programs, Creative and Performing Arts. We focus on building confidence, independence, and friendships in a safe, nurturing environment.

Lowell School

Horsemanship, outdoor program, onsite swimming pool, STEM and theater arts programs and extended programs into August including an Aquatics camp.

Overnight Coed 7-16

High View, WV camptalltimbers.com 301-874-0111

Montgomery County Recreation

Specialties include art, dance, leadership, magic, music, sports, STEAM, therapeutic recreation and more. Day Coed 3.5-18

Nature Forward

Located on a 40-acre nature sanctuary in Montgomery County, MD, our camps provide high-quality environmental science education and good oldfashioned camp fun! From Kindergarten through high school, every child will find outdoor adventure, from looking for salamanders under logs, hiking the AT, cooking food harvested from our Children’s Garden, to visiting the National Zoo.

Day, Travel, and Overnight Coed 5-18

Located throughout Montgomery County mocorec.com/camp 240-777-6840

Chevy Chase, MD

natureforward.org/campwoodend 301-450-1474

Essential information on Summer Camps 13

Oneness-Family School Summer Programs

Montessori, Hiking, Swimming, Gymnastics, Environmental Education, Waterplay, Museums, Pool & Beach Visits, Playground Field Trips, Theater, Art

Day Coed Age 2Grade 8

BethesdaChevy Chase, MD onenessfamily.org/ summer 301-652-7751 l l

Panda Programmer

Our camp offers a perfect blend of coding, creativity, and fun! Students create games and animations using Scratch. Robotics, Python and JavaScript are available for advanced students. Kids will thrive with expert guidance, outdoor adventures, games, and other extracurriculars.

Day Camp with full day and half day options available Coed 5-13

Bethesda, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, MD and Washington, DC pandaprogrammer.com 443-267-2632

Round House Theatre

One-Week and Multi-Week camps for youth and teens. Focus on acting, playwriting, storytelling, design and more. Inspire creativity and explore your imagination!

The St. James Summer Camps

Voted Best Summer Camps in the DMV, campers dive into Adventure, STEAM, and 15+ specialty sports camps— something for every passion. Expect nonstop fun in temperature-controlled, world-class facilities. Parents love included lunch and the convenient shuttle from Bethesda for stress-free mornings.

Day Coed 5-18

St. John’s College High School

St. John’s offers a variety of summer camp opportunities. In addition to our 13 sports camps, we offer a middle school theatre camp. Sports choices include baseball, softball, basketball, field hockey, football, ice hockey, lacrosse, performance training, soccer, and volleyball. Sign up today!

Day Coed 4-16

Bethesda, Silver Spring, MD roundhousetheatre.org/ camp 301-585-1225

Springfield, VA Transportation offered from Bethesda, MD thestjamescamps.com 703-239-6846 l

Day Coed, girls, and boys (camp specific) 6-18 (camp specific) Chevy Chase, DC stjohnschs.org/athletics/ summer-camps 202-363-2316

Summer at Sandy Spring

Archery, Rock Climbing, Low and high ropes, academics, sewing, theater, sports, art

Day Coed 3-15

Sandy Spring, MD summeratsandyspring.org 301-774-7455 x167 l l

Kids Grow Better Outside! Kids Grow Better

EditionSafari

Embark on a thrilling new journey to unlock your inner explorer!

Fearlessly trek through the wilds of creativity, delve into a jungle of teamwork, follow uncharted trails to friendship, and join in an epic quest for fun.

Campers must be 2.75 years old for half-days and 3.5 years old for

Arrived

Field Trip Camp

6/15 – 18 (4 days)

Session One

6/22 – 7/10 (3 weeks)

Session Two

7/13-31 (3 weeks)

8/3-7 (1 week)

Have a Seat

BY MYLES MELLOR

ACROSS

1. Potato variety

4. A living room “L”

9. Choose

10. Room at the top of the house

11. de toilette

12. November birthstone

13. Landmark Bethesda Row theater has them

16. Monopolize

18. Wedding vow words, 2 words

20. Extremely long time

22. Fashionable

24. Sensible and useful

28. Official replacement parts, abbr.

31. The Simpsons spot

33. To offer for purchase in advance

36. No longer in style, needing an upgrade

39. Mantelpiece, e.g.

41. Hawaiian garland

42. Chicken casserole made with broccoli and cream sauce

43. Rod Serling did ads for this brand during The Twilight Zone episodes

45. Prefix meaning two

47. Offer, as congratulations

48. Lock opener

49. Floor covering

1. It’s French for chair

2. Improvement in the economy

3. Ad , for a specific purpose

4. Things taken on a staircase

5. Lower impact form of surfing

6. Find the area under a curve in mathematics

7. Table setting piece

8. Furniture retailer in Rockville’s Nicholson Plaza

14. Small folding bed

15. Get this pierced at Rowan

17. Like some meds

19. Dentist’s degree, abbr.

21. Consumed food

23. Mariachi, Rockville eatery

25. Lone Oak Farm Brewing follower, for short

26. Louvre Pyramid architect

27. Cupid’s chair, 2 words

29. Weighing a lot

30. Board chaired by Artie Harris

32. TV screen initials

34. Abbreviation following Old Georgetown or Brookville

35. Greek goddess of the soul

37. Security system feature

38. Tellurium symbol

40. Multifunctional bedding option that originated in Japan

42. Cause to be late

44. Sign a contract, for example

46. Suburban Hospital has one, abbr.