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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

KC Cole | KC.Cole@Lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Happy Holidays, Potomac

Jess Bousa | Jess.Bousa@Lifestylepubs.com SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATORS

Delaney Wiggins | Delaney.Expomedia@gmail.com Bridget Devoy | Bridget@Ordermychaos.com

OKAY, SO MAYBE THE HOLIDAY SEASON ISN’T FULL OF JOY AND CHEER THE

AD DESIGNER

ENTIRE TIME. There’s a lot to do, and you want everything to be perfect so your family

Whitney Lockhart

and friends know how loved they are. Take a big breath—we are here to help.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph

This month’s issue includes inspired ideas for staying focused on family this holiday

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

season. Most family gatherings include great food and, in this issue, we highlight

Lauri Gross, Catherine Trifiletti, Marie Robey Wood

some great local restaurant plus a favorite ice-cream shop with bakery delights, and a popular gourmet food market, all of which are ready to safely welcome you

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Monica Vidal, Tony Powell, Jack Hartzman

inside, or provide take out or catering options. Potomac is all about shopping local and supporting each other. When you’re ready to start traveling again, check out our story on the new Eclipse at Half Moon in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Considered by many as the most luxurious addition to the Caribbean in a generation, this stunning resort will surely make you forget all about the pandemic. What pandemic? Exactly. Also, use the end of the year to get your money right. First, Coakley Realty shares tips for handling property taxes. Then, Bob Collins of the Collins Investment Group discusses what makes a successful investor-client relationship work.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

In this issue, you’ll also meet local students helping others overcome food insecurity. This holiday season is going to be wonderful, and we believe in you. Just remember to find time for yourself too. Your family wants you to be happy and healthy above all else.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

We can’t wait to see you next year! Happy holidays, Potomac. 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

KC Cole, Publisher

ON THE COVER An aerial view of Half Moon, Jamaica's famous white sand beaches.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TONY POWELL 6

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

Proverbs 3:5-6 Potomac Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Potomac areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Potomac Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 14 Food for Thought Area Students Channel their Talents to Help Feed the Community During the Pandemic

18 Fill Your Bowl, Fill Your Heart Local Potomac Establishments Face the Pandemic with Community Support, Great Food and Holiday Cheer

24 Finding Irie Even During a Pandemic, Jamaicaâ€™s Half Moon Resort Continues Driving its Storied Legacy

18 24

30 Coakley Realty Real Estate Tax Assessments More Appealing

30 DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Financial Buzz

Giving Back

Hot Spot

24 Travel Destination 30 Local Limelight 34 Parting Thoughts

TH E

Lisa

Vogel

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FINANCIAL BUZZ ARTICLE LAURI GROSS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Q& A w i t h B o b Co l l i n s THE MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE COLLINS INVESTMENT GROUP SHARES INSIGHTS ON WHAT MAKES A SUCCESSFUL INVESTOR-CLIENT RELATIONSHIP

WITH MORE THAN THREE DECADES IN

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR TEAM.

THE FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY, BOB

My team is the foundation of CIG. We have a great

COLLINS, MANAGING DIRECTOR AND CEO,

environment, and a great office set up, but more important

OF COLLINS INVESTMENT GROUP (CIG) IS

is mentoring and providing an opportunity to grow and

KNOWN FOR INTEGRITY AND INSIGHTFUL,

advance their career and develop long-term relationships

PERSONALIZED

ADVICE.

with our clients. If they want to grow from a sales associate

His most recent recognition came this year,

to a financial advisor, they have opportunities to do that.

being nominated and ranked in Forbes Top

My team’s chief operating officer is an example. That role

250 Wealth Advisors and #7 in Maryland on the

wasn’t there when they joined many years ago. She devel-

Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list.

oped into that role and now she has been on my team for

INVESTMENT

over 20 years and she basically runs the company for me. 10

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

HOW DO YOU DEVELOP CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS? I believe the best way to really get clients to open up is to spend a lot of time with them. Before Covid, this was mainly at a kitchen table, office or restaurant. During the Covid pandemic, we have had to shift to phone calls and Zoom meetings. We put a tremendous amount of time into client relationships. For prospects, we want to make sure it’s a good fit so we take our time to get to know them. From my experience, they don’t generally disclose everything on the first meeting. During the second meet-

FROM OUR FAMILY, TO YOURS.

ing, once they see our approach/philosophy and the hours of work we already put in, we want that prospect to be blown away by what they see. Usually, by the third

We develop generational relationships. Clients want us

Additionally, we offer extensive C

Y OWN

D EST

LO D

so they know Collins Investment Group and the people on

brought up at Thanksgiving and other family gatherings

how we will continue to do it for them. We want to be

to educate their kids on how they built their wealth and

2008

E FRESH

ILY

HOW DO YOU KEEP CLIENTS THROUGH THE YEARS?

We are a Potomac family owned & operated restaurant. Our mission is to serve you fresh made traditional Italian favorites, made in our own kitchens.

meeting the prospect wants to become a client.

Catering, Carry-Out & Gluten-Free Menus.

my team. We tend to have a loyal client base and maintain long-term relationships. When they do ultimately pass on, those heirs already know who we are. In order to be a successful advisor, you’ve got to do well for clients.

gregoriostrattoria.com POTOMAC, MD

7745 Tuckerman Lane Potomac, MD 20854

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RESTON, VA 1428 No.Point Village Ctr. Reston, VA 20194

HOW DO YOU KEEP CLIENTS ENCOURAGED DURING DOWN MARKETS?

Feb20.3.458 X 4.75.Rev2.indd 1

12/24/19 8:09 PM

I got into the business in 1982. My first bad market experience was the 1987 crash. It dropped over 22 percent in one day. I had to tell my clients, “Stay the course.” I’ve gone through other big situations including the 08'-09' financial crisis. Many clients realized that (despite these down markets) they didn’t have to change their lifestyle and that our investment strategy can work in tough environments. In the sell-off last March and April, our clients didn’t panic because they knew they would get through it. Quality investments tend to be resilient. I believe that our clients feel confident despite the nightmare outside their window.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this report are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Wells Fargo Advisors Financial

OVE R 6, 0 0 0 SL ABS AND 1 0, 0 0 0 R E MN AN TS

Network or its affiliates. The material has been prepared or is distributed solely for information purposes and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. The Forbes America’s Top Wealth Advisors ranking algorithm is based on industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. Investment performance is not a criterion. Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN). Collins Investment Group is

11 75 TAFT ST RE E T ROCKVI L L E 301.2 51 .8 8 00

a separate entity from WFAFN. CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

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GIVING BACK

AREA STUDENTS CHANNEL THEIR TALENTS TO HELP ENSURE OTHERS HAVE FOOD DURING THE PANDEMIC

Food for

Thought MUCH OF THE TALK OF THE PANDEMIC RELATES TO

connect caregivers with wandering dementia patients. Dhruv

FOOD. Is it safe to dine indoors? Did you wash your hands

also founded Zebra Health Net to help people with rare dis-

after unpacking your takeout meal? Will the grocery store

eases find appropriate clinical trials and to improve relations

shelves be re-stocked? But for some, there is real worry about

between patients, healthcare providers, and rare-disease

having enough food at all.

researchers. And Dhruv serves as a brand ambassador and

Several Montgomery County young people, such as Dhruv

CTO for Arts-n-Stem 4 Hearts, which helps distribute art and

Pai, are doing excellent work to help alleviate others’ food

STEM activity kits to children and seniors in hospitals and

insecurity. Currently a junior in the Science, Mathematics, and

nursing homes. His latest endeavor is Teens Helping Seniors.

Computer Science magnet program at Montgomery Blair High

Although the idea is simple — a free food-delivery service for

School, Dhurv is as interested in community service as in com-

seniors – it’s grown into a complex nationwide organization

puter science and engineering. “Science is most valuable when

that Dhruv and his friend Matthew Casertano lead.

you have a humanitarian impact,” he said. “If you aren’t creating inventions to help people, it doesn’t really matter.”

As for Ana, while still in high school, she collaborated with her friend and fellow Winston Churchill student Rachel de Silva, and

Ana Gutierrez Covarrubias, a 2020 graduate of Winston

Julie Garel, a communications consultant, to create a children’s

Churchill High School, and currently a University of Southern

book, the proceeds for which the trio are donating to local food

California freshman agreed and said, “If you have a talent, you

banks. Julie was helping Ana with her college essays, (which is

should definitely use it to help people. That’s a big part of why

Julie’s side gig) when Julie had the idea for a book, and invited

we have talents: To make the world a better place. It’s not just

Ana to participate. “From the get-go, this was a project to raise

about doing it for the money. It’s definitely better to help people.”

money for charity,” Julie said. News coverage of people strug-

Dhruv won the 2019 Youth Volunteer of the Year Award

gling with food insecurity during the pandemic “made it a very

from the Community Foundation of Montgomery County

simple decision,” Julie said. “Ana has such a generous heart, so

for many of his accomplishments. These include the devel-

I immediately thought of Ana. I just felt that Ana would be con-

opment of the K-ring, a low-cost smart tracking ring to

nected to the good intentions behind the project and she was.”

ARTICLE LAURI GROSS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

Julie planned to write the book and she hoped Ana, a self-taught photographer, could provide the images. “I thought it was a supercool idea,” said Ana, “but I didn’t think photography would be enough for a kid’s book.” Ana reached out Rachel – an illustrator and now a University of Pennsylvania nursing-school freshman – to see if

she could help. They discovered a way to merge Ana’s photographs with Rachel’s drawings into unusual and beautiful illustrations that worked perfectly in the book. They were just getting started at the

onset of the pandemic, last March and April. That was also when Dhruv’s group, Teens Helping Seniors, was getting off the ground. Dhruv’s grandparents were his initial inspiration. He wanted to do their grocery shopping and deliver to them so they could stay safe at home. Soon he drafted students from other area schools and they began helping seniors beyond their own families. “In the beginning, it was hard to get off the ground,” Dhruv said. “It was hard to get kids to join a volunteer organization that they never heard of. Then we got coverage on GoodNewsNetwork.org and validated ourselves as a volunteer organization.” Soon, others reached out to Dhruv from across town and across the country, and also from Canada. “Then we got more media coverage and it started accelerating,” he said. 01 (L to R) Julie Garel, Rachel de Silva and Ana Gutierrez Covarrubias collaborated on "Silver Lining Search Club" and are donating proceeds to area food banks. | 02 Silver Lining Search Club By Julie Garel available on Amazon. com | 03 Dhruv Pai. Volunteer at Walter Reed National Medical Center; Red Cross | 04 Dhruv Pai grocery shopping before making a delivery through the group he founded, Teens Helping Seniors. | 05 Proclamation given by Councilmember Glass for Teens Helping Seniors. From left to right: Ria Garg, WCHS, Rohin Garg, WCHS, Dhruv Pai, MBHS, Matthew Casertano, MBHS, Councilmember Evan Glass, Dylan Vohra, WWHS, Jacob Kaplan-Davis, WHS, Ella, McGrath, TWHS, Shuayb Oweis, TWHS. *WCHS-Winston Churchill High School, MBHS- Montgomery Blair High School, WWHS- Walt Whitman High School, TWHS- Thomas Wootton High School

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

“ S C I E N C E I S M O S T VA L U A B L E W H E N Y O U H AV E A H U M A N I T A R I A N I M P A C T,” H E S A I D . “IF YOU AREN’T CREATING INVENTIONS TO H E L P P E O P L E , I T D O E S N ’ T R E A L LY M A T T E R .”

As of mid-October, the group included 730 volunteers who

As of early October, sales of the book – which was printed

had made 2,100 deliveries in 17 states and provinces through 33

by and is sold on Amazon - had generated about $2,000, which

chapters. Early on, Dhruv and others set up the group’s website

Julie, Ana and Rachel donated to No Kid Hungry, the first of sev-

(TeensHelpingSeniors.org), and by August, they incorpo-

eral food charities they plan to support.

rated as a Maryland non-profit. Currently, they are applying to become a 501(c)(3). Meanwhile, Ana, Rachel and Julie were progressing on their

these projects since, at that time, their virtual classrooms were

book, “Silver Lining Search Club,” which takes place over a

not very demanding. In the fall semester school became more

single day in the life of a young girl who must stay indoors due

time-intensive so Dhruv said Teens Helping Seniors shifted

to the pandemic. She searches out her window for the silver

most of their deliveries to the weekends but he also stressed

lining of her situation and discovers it in the relationships and

that each chapter is different.

natural world she sees there. “I think it was as much for me as it was for instilling a sense of optimism in the kids we wrote the book for,” Julie said.

Dhruv said, “We give them (each chapter) flexibility but we have strict core organizational guidelines.” These include keeping volunteers and the seniors safe by following health

Before this project, Rachel had mostly drawn realistic pen-

protocols, and following the rules of being a non-profit. “For

cil-and-paper portraits, which she didn’t think would work for a

instance, we can’t accept tips,” Dhruv said. The group also

children’s book. She said she “played around with cartoons and

delivers medicine and before the election, they delivered infor-

illustrations” and eventually taught herself to draw on an iPad

mation on non-partisan voting-related issues.

and settled on a drawing style that would work.

The most common feedback Dhruv’s group receives is:

Of course, all of Rachel’s meetings with Ana and Julie had to

What would we have done without you? “This changes the way

be virtual. They shared files, drawings, photographs and plans

seniors can respond to the pandemic,” he said, “They know their

back and forth as the book took shape. In most of the book

next meal will be there for them. That is really impactful.”

images, Ana’s photographs form the background for Rachel’s

Reflecting on the impact of “Silver Lining Search Club,”

drawings but in some, the two art forms are more blended. For

Rachel said: “I have been seeing so many people in need, losing

instance, in one photo, the main character’s little brother sits

jobs or not being able to afford rent. It was great to donate our

on a blanket. The background and the toys on the blanket are

proceeds, and, in a sense, that was our own silver lining.”

photographs while the boy himself is one of Rachel’s drawings.

Ana, Rachel and Dhruv all said that their spring semester of school last year left them with plenty of free time to work on

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HOT SPOT

Fill Your Bowl, Fill Your Heart A QUARTET OF LOCAL POTOMAC ESTABLISHMENTS FACE THE PANDEMIC WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT, GREAT FOOD AND PLENTY OF HOLIDAY CHEER ARTICLE LAURI GROSS PHOTOGRAPHY JACK HARTZMAN

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

Gregorio’s Trattoria Everything about Gregorio’s Trattoria (in Cabin John Village and North Point Center in Reston) is about serving quality food and a diverse menu to local families and friends while supporting the local community. Greg Kahn, who co-owns the restaurant with his dad Donald, has been part of the Potomac community for over 40 years and earned the nickname “The Man behind the Meatballs” while building his restaurant’s reputation for quality comfort food served in a comfort-

The Kahn Family

able atmosphere at neighborhood prices. Greg said, “I’m grateful to be able to live in the Potomac community where my wife and I are raising our three sons.” As Greg continues to help raise his family and work alongside his partner and father, he knows how important it is for him to give back to the community. “In spite of the pandemic, I anticipate our restaurants will be central to family holiday celebrations,” he said. “Gregorio’s is ready to help celebrate by offering family-style meals, catering to your home or office, and a personal chef service.” Loved and respected for their extensive Italian offerings, warm and friendly hospitality, and community involvement, Gregorio’s hosts fundraising events (referred to as FUNraising) for community groups, schools, and charities. “I am extremely proud of providing hundreds of meals to groups supporting and sending food feeding essential workers,” Greg explained. “During these unprecedented times, I am truly grateful - beyond words - for the support the community has given to the employees and families dependent upon Gregorio’s for income.” Gregorio’s is preparing to open a new location at Sumner Place in Bethesda (Glen Echo area), where Greg looks forward to extending holiday cheer and continuing to support the community. “We’re open 363 days a year for dining, pickup, delivery, catering and personal chef services, with alcohol also available: only closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day,” Greg said, as he added, “My family and I wish everyone a safe holiday season and a healthy and happy New Year.” www.gregoriostrattoria.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

Sprinkles Sprinkles, the popular Potomac Village destination that’s part ice-cream shop, part bakery and part candy shop, is a feast of delightful scents, sights, and flavors year-round but perhaps especially in December. Children who visit can choose popsicle sticks or a pinecone to decorate and bring back to the store. Hung on shelves, these hand-decorated baubles add a festive touch. The window on the front door sports a dazzling white wreath while cut-out snowflakes hang overhead and other surprises, such as wall-mounted skis, catch the eye. Courtney Spaeth, one of the owners of Sprinkles, and its CEO said, “We try to make it very beautiful and at the same time, we’re inclusive of Hanukkah. It’s always festive and fun and our windows are always beautiful and unusual.” During this season at Sprinkles, pumpkin, peppermint and chocolate make their way into ice cream, Rice Krispy Treats, fudge, cocoa and more. “Each winter, we sell Amish-made holiday pies delivered fresh daily including pecan, pumpkin, apple and mixed berry,” said Sharon Gubinsky, who is also an owner of Sprinkles. Shoppers will also find doggy bones, bowls and donuts decorated for the holidays and this year, Sprinkles has expanded its vegan offerings and added cold pressed juices to its Courtney Spaeth & Sharon Gubinsky

menu. They’ve also added a 3D printer that prints frosting cake decorations in any shape from snowmen to Cinderella’s carriage and beyond. Courtney’s husband, Jon Spaeth, is also an owner of Sprinkles, and the Spaeth’s daughter is one of the store managers. “She likes our fresh Rice Krispy treats,” Courtney said of her daughter, while the Spaeth’s adult son is partial to cold-brew Ceremony coffee in nitro cans, and another son, who’s only four, likes anything with sprinkles but especially sugar cones with ice cream, Courtney explained with a laugh. At home, the Spaeth family’s decorations include a ten-foot Christmas tree with a different theme each year. The Spaeth family and the whole Sprinkles team remains committed to community outreach. Courtney said, “We will always support Toys for Tots, we will always support local charities and we will continue to support wounded and disabled veterans.” www.sprinklespotomac.com

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

Hunter’s Bar and Grill Murray & Fred Berman

“The Berman family, along with the Hunter’s Bar and Grill staff would like to thank you for your continued support during the pandemic,” said brothers Fred and Murray Berman, who have owned the Potomac Village restaurant since 2002. Hunter’s Bar and Grill offers a variety unlike most restaurants in the area and their menu varies, depending on the availability of fresh meat and seafood. In particular, every Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s, there will be specials (as there are nearly every day at Hunter’s Bar and Grill). This year’s holiday specials could include a fresh fish

Despite the grim numbers of how many restaurants have not

dish, prime rib and/or aged NY strip steak, or maybe lobster or oysters.

survived the pandemic, Fred said, “We haven’t missed one day

The restaurant is closed Christmas Day but is usually packed on

of being open. Somehow, we survived. We appreciate our cus-

Christmas Eve. “Because of the pandemic, we recommend reserva-

tomers and we’re here for the community.” Fred and Murray’s

tions,” said Fred.

community support includes donations to Adoptions Together,

Murray added, “We are expecting to do a lot more takeout business this Christmas Eve and we’ll be prepared.”

and many other organizations. The brothers look forward to welcoming more dine-in cus-

Throughout the holiday season, the restaurant will be decked out

tomers as people feel more comfortable coming back inside.

for Christmas and Hanukkah. Don’t miss the restaurant’s famous

“We are following the CDC guidelines,” Murray said. “Our tables

eggnog. “The recipe belongs to our mom, Julia,” said Fred.

and booths are six feet apart and we are cleaning and sanitizing

Murray and his wife, Sylvia celebrate Hanukkah with their kids

everything. We are doing everything we can do to make sure our

and grandkids. Fred and his wife, Dora celebrate Hanukkah and

customers and our staff are safe inside and on the patio, and

Christmas with friends and family in their home. However, this year,

we are wishing you a very happy and healthy holiday season.”

their plans are uncertain due to the pandemic.

www.huntersbarandgrill.com

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

HOT SPOT (CONTINUED)

Market at River Falls This holiday season, and all year round, the Market at River Falls (next to Starbucks in the Potomac Village Shopping Center) offers fresh selections from local sources prepared in-house daily. “We stay away from processed foods, any additives, chemicals, GMO, hormones or antibiotics. And, if you have a special need, call us, give us some notice, we will make it how you like it,” said Jim McWhorter who owns the store with his wife Yasmin Abadian who added, “Our food is wholesome, healthy and as fresh and unprocessed as possible and, most importantly, delicious.” Jim and Yasmin’s own extended family includes people of many different cultures. “We are a true modern family, and so diverse,” said Yasmin who explained that the family celebrates many different Yasmin Abadian & Jim McWhorter

cultural holidays including a traditional American Christmas. Customers of the Market at River Falls also represent diverse cultures and that’s reflected in the food selections, from special-order items to classic holiday favorites such as turkeys and roasts perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year’s. In fact, the Market offers a full menu specially created for Christmas, plus one for Hanukkah and New Year’s Eve. Each includes an extensive selection of appetizers, soups, entrees, side dishes and desserts. “In some cases, we prepare a whole meal for customers,” said Jim. Shoppers are welcome to select just the items they need – such as the popular Amish-made pies and cheesecakes - or leave all the prep for a complete feast to the Market team. “We need 48 hours’ notice before pickup,” Jim added. Jim and Yasmin’s community outreach includes their commitment to support local first responders and healthcare professionals through which they have delivered more than 5,000 high-quality meals. “Many of our customers have donated to this cause and we are extremely grateful,” said Yasmin. Jim added, “We thank everyone for their continued support and wish them a safe and peaceful new year.” www.marketriverfalls.com

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

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TRAVEL DESTINATION

FINDING IRIE EVEN DURING A PANDEMIC, JAMAICAâ€™S HALF MOON RESORT CONTINUES DRIVING ITS STORIED LEGACY INTO THE FUTURE

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Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

ARTICLE CATHERINE TRIFILETTI PHOTOGRAPHY TONY POWELL Eclipse Guest Villas Photo By: Tony Powell

Eclipse Lobby

ONE THING THE CORONAVIRUS HAS TAUGHT US IS THAT WE SHOULD NEVER TAKE CONNECTION FOR GRANTED. Connection to people, connection to places and, perhaps most importantly, connection to optimism. As we slowly creep back to our regularly scheduled routines, it’s only natural to fantasize about a retreat away from the grim reality that has plagued our daily lives for the past nine months. Jamaica holds the key to such escapism. The power of the island nation’s natural beauty commingled with its laid back culture renders it the perfect covid hideaway. There has never been a better time to take a cue from Bob Marley, who once sang: “Don’t worry about a thing.” Why? “Because every little thing is gonna be alright.” Whether or not your optimism has endured through the global health crisis, Jamaica offers irie and the opportunity to at least fake it for a while.

CONTINUED >

Lester's Bar at Eclipse

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

TRAVEL DESTINATION (CONTINUED)

Jamaica is taking the pandemic very seriously, but, because of its economy’s reliance on tourism, the country is eager to safely welcome back visitors as high season commences. Incoming travelers are required to provide their airline with proof of a negative Covid-19 test taken less than 10 days before departure, and request a travel authorization via Jamaica’s Ministry of Health & Wellness before arrival. Similar to the States, mask ordinances are active in retail and public spaces. As of the writing of this article, there is also an 8 p.m. curfew strictly imposed by Jamaican law enforcement to discourage large gatherings. Fortunately, if Half Moon is your destination, you won’t need to go far to satisfy your vacation reverie. The storied Jamaican gem has followed a phased Rose Hall Villas

reopening approach in order to effectively implement health and safety protocols. Rose Hall Villas led the charge in June, fol-

Rose Hall Villas

lowed by the property’s new development, Eclipse, in November. The oldest section of the property, Founders Cove will follow suit on December 15. Each of the three luxury accommodation options offer varying experiences based on your group size, budget and overall travel goals. Founded in 1954, the resort holds the increasingly unique designation of being privately owned. Three families, including one hailing from Maryland, have maintained lofty standards for their 400-acre property over the last six decades. Salamander

Surf and Turf Horseback Riding Activity

Hotels & Resorts assumed management of Half Moon in 2019, further solidifying its stronghold on the luxury market in Jamaica. Helmed by BET co-founder and local philanthropist Sheila Johnson, Salamander has five properties in its portfolio, including its signature Forbes Five-Star hotel, Salamander Resort in Middleburg, Virginia. Johnson’s involvement was likely a factor in Forbes’ Four-Star Rating of Half Moon earlier this year – the first Jamaican hotel to receive the prestigious distinction. Half Moon was also recently recognized as the top resort in Jamaica by Conde Nast Traveler.

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

Sandwiched between verdant mountains and two miles of sparkling turquoise ocean, Half Moon maintains a balance between its rich historical roots and upscale modern touches. Of the property’s impressive equilibrium, general man-

ACTIVITIES

ager and 30-year veteran staff member

GALORE

Shernette Crichton says, “It’s barefoot

+ Fern Tree Spa

elegance with old world charm.”

+ Wellness Cabanas

An early morning walk along the proper-

+ World Class Golf

ty’s coastline will give life to Crichton’s high

+ Flood-Lit Tennis/

praise. The quiet breeze and the day’s first light will also help transition your internal clock from Eastern Standard Time to Island

Squash Courts + Fitness Center

Overwater Spa Bungalow

+ Children’s Village

Time, a welcome reminder that traditional timekeeping doesn’t carry weight in Jamaica. If you’re lucky you may spot hummingbirds fluttering about and sea turtles nesting in creamy white sand. If your timing is really good, a spry staff member may climb a palm tree and shake down fresh coconuts for you. For couples, one of the Eclipse’s 57 spacious suites is an optimal choice. With its proximity to two onsite gourmet restaurants, three bars, the spa, fitness center, tennis courts and salt water infinity pool, Eclipse embodies convenient and modern luxury. The Eclipse’s openair lobby design wastes no time showing

Ocean Room King Eclipse at Half Moon

+ Equestrian Centre (private lessons, sand stroll, surf and turf and pony rides) + Standup Paddleboarding + Pedal Boats + Snorkeling + Kayaking + Sailing + Windsurfing + Scuba Diving + Water Skiing

guests what they came for– balayage blue sea and palm trees. Lots of palm trees. The location, which opened last year after

Infinity Edge Pool at Eclipse

a multi-million dollar overhaul, is equal parts classic and contemporary. Families should reserve one of Half Moon’s 28 villas, each of which include a chef, personal butler and housekeeper, plus a backyard pool and golf cart to explore all of the property’s offerings. Set on impossibly lush green landscapes, the stark white colonial structures offer comfortable luxury and unmatched privacy. On finding irie at Half Moon, Potomac resident Meg Thompson credits the property’s “ambience, swim up bar, friendly staff and endless activities.” For Moussa Moaadel, also a Potomac resident, the vacation spot can be summed up in a few words: “simply marvelous.” CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

, TMJ, Invisalign and Teeth Whitening

Implants, Implants, Crowns, Crowns, Veneers, Implants, Veneers, TMJ, Invisalign Crowns, TMJ, Invisalign Veneers, and Teeth and TMJ, Whitening Teeth Invisalign Whitening and Teeth Whitening

ng new and existing patients the highest quality ofA Washingtonian A Washingtonian Top Dentist, TopADentist, Dr. Washingtonian Markogiannakis Dr. Markogiannakis Top Dentist, is providing is Dr.providing Markogiannakis new andnew existing andisexisting patients providing patients thenew highest and the existing highest quality of quality patientsofthe highest quality of sible during these uncertain times. She is continuously comprehensive atcomprehensive dental care dental with comprehensive care thewith safest theenvironment safest dental environment care with possible thepossible safest duringenvironment these duringuncertain thesepossible uncertain times.during She times. isthese continuously Sheuncertain is continuously attimes.at She is continuously at ghest level of PPE, which includes: the forefront the forefront of infection of infection control the and forefront control hasand incorporated of infection has incorporated control the highest and thehas highest level incorporated of PPE, level which of PPE, theincludes: highest which includes: level of PPE, which includes: D R . D E S P I N A M . M A R KO G I A N N A K I S

• Extra • Extra evacuation oral evacuation units in each units • treatment Extra in each oraltreatment room evacuation removing room unitsremoving aerosols in each treatment aerosols room aerosols • Thorough prescreening of each patient prior to and after entering ouroral office • Thorough • removing prescreening Thorough prescreening of each patient •of each Thorough prior patient to and prescreening prior aftertoentering and after of each our entering office patientour prior office to and after entering our office to the 0.3 micron to the 0.3 micron to the 0.3 micron • Single use items and disposables for our patient (everything from • Single •useSingle itemsuse anditems disposables and disposables • Single for ouruse patient foritems our (everything patient and disposables (everything from for from our patient (everything from eyewear to pens) eyewear to pens) eyewear to pens) r • Surgical • clean Surgical air system: clean aircertified system: • tocertified Surgical filter over toclean 95% filterof air over all system: particles 95% ofcertified allinparticles the to airfilter in the over air95% oftoeyewear allpens) particles in the air • Continuous and thorough disinfection of ALL surfaces•in Certified the office • team Continuous • Continuous andat thorough and thorough disinfection • Continuous disinfection of ALL surfaces and of ALL thorough in surfaces thedisinfection office in the office of ALL surfaces in the office • N95 Certified masks N95 will masks be worn will • by Certified beall worn team N95 bymembers allmasks team members will at all betimes. worn at all by times. all members all times. of Chase • Temperature checks of all patients (including staff) checked dailyareMasks • all Temperature • Temperature ofchecks all patients of • all Temperature (including patients (including staff) checks checked staff) of alldaily checked patients (including daily staff) checked daily Masks also required are also to required beChevy worn Masks toby be all worn are patients also by allrequired into patients the office tointo be the worn office by patients intochecks the office upon arrival upon arrival upon arrival upon arrival • Limited• number Limitedofnumber patientsofinpatients the • office Limited in the at number aoffice time atofa patients time in the office at a time

Smiles

Creating a Beautiful, Healthy Smile in the Safest Setting

at providing the highest quality of care in the safest As setting we begin As wethis begin newthis phase newin As phase patient we begin in care, patient thisrest new care, assured phase rest assured in that patient providing rest quality that providing of quality care in ofthe the care highest safest in thesetting quality safest setting of care in the safest setting SP Eproviding C I that A care, LIZ I the N Ghighest Iassured N the highest remainsremains our number our number one priority. remains one priority. ourImplants, number one priority. Crowns, Veneers, TMJ, Invisalign and Teeth Whitening

TO SEEING YOU SOON!

WE LO WO E KL O FOR KWA F ORW RD WA E TLO RODO S ET KEOIFNO SG EREWA YI N OG U R DY SO TO U NS !O E EOI N G ! YOU SOON!

A Washingtonian Top Dentist, Dr. Markogiannakis is providing new and existing patients the highest quality of comprehensive dental care with the safest environment possible during these uncertain times. She is continuously at the forefront of infection control and has incorporated the highest level of PPE, which includes: • Extra oral evacuation units in each treatment room removing aerosols to the 0.3 micron • Surgical clean air system: certified to filter over 95% of all particles in the air • Certified N95 masks will be worn by all team members at all times. Masks are also required to be worn by all patients into the office • Limited number of patients in the office at a time

• Thorough prescreening of each patient prior to and after entering our office • Single use items and disposables for our patient (everything from eyewear to pens) • Continuous and thorough disinfection of ALL surfaces in the office • Temperature checks of all patients (including staff) checked daily upon arrival

As we begin this new phase in patient care, rest assured that providing the highest quality of care in the safest setting remains our number one priority.

W E L O O K F O R WA R D T O S E E I N G Y O U S O O N !

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CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

ARTICLE MARIE ROBEY WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY JACK HARTZMAN

COAKLEY R E A LT Y : THEY CAN MAKE YOUR REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENTS MORE APPEALING

Rory S. Coakley Sr. & Rory P. Coakley Jr.

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

WHEN ROBYN SACHS RECEIVED THE 2018 PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT ON HER 4,500 SQUARE FOOT OFFICE CONDOMINIUM, SHE WAS ASTOUNDED. Sachs, the president of RMR & Associates, a public relations agency in North Bethesda, was notified that her real estate taxes were being raised by a whopping 51 percent from the previous year. She attributed this to the newly built, upscale Pike and Rose office and retail complex located close by on Rockville Pike. Luckily for Sachs, she had heard about what Coakley Realty could do in the way of appealing this new tax, and she benefited from the unique service they offer. Coakley Realty is a full-service residential and commercial real estate company and their signs can be seen all over Maryland, D.C. and Virginia. They started offering real estate tax appeals in 1989 for both residential and commercial properties and have been busy ever since, saving millions of tax dollars for their clients in the process. According to Coakley, hiring a real estate firm to help with property tax appeals is a great option because these appeals often require some measure of negotiation and also CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

require local market knowledge, all attributes of a good real estate consultant.

Another interesting wrinkle is the expert’s knowledge of individual assessment offices. For instance, Coakley

With assistance from Rachel Griffin, her firm’s oper-

reflects that the assessment office is often overworked or

ations manager, Sachs contacted Coakley’s office with

understaffed. According to him, “It’s easy for assessors to

their assessment notice. Coakley agreed to review the tax

make mistakes when assessing thousands of properties

assessment at no charge to decide if an appeal was in order.

each year.” He adds that “Your property or neighborhood

This included comparing her office town house to compa-

may have unique conditions that affect its value that the

rable town houses in her community and determining what

tax assessor is not aware of. Human error could inflate

the properties were selling for. Coakley’s office promises

property assessments. Filing a property tax appeal allows

not to charge clients until a successful appeal is negotiated

you to request that the assessor take a closer look at your

and then they charge only a portion of what they save a

property’s value using the data you provide.”

client in their tax bill. In Sachs’ case the outcome was worth

Another important fact is that common reasons to appeal

the effort – Coakley managed a thirty percent reduction in

include a lack of uniformity, market changes or a recent pur-

the tax amount Sachs had to pay.

chase, all facts that a skilled tax adviser can utilize. Because

Ultimately Sachs says that “using Coakley was hugely beneficial to us.” Not only did they save her money but they communicated what was ongoing and “kept me informed every step of the way.”

tax appeals are often negotiations, understanding the assessment office’s techniques can give you a leg up. In Maryland, tax assessments are prepared for one-third of the state’s property owners every three years and the

Chip Mitchell, the chief operating officer of the Kirlin

next round of reassessments in Maryland are sent out in

Group, a privately owned construction company, has

December. If someone is allowed to appeal it can affect their

had a long-standing professional relationship with

taxes for the next three years. In Maryland the appeal must be

Coakley Realty. He reports that the team has repre-

filed within 45 days of the date of the new assessment notice.

sented Kirlin in their tax assessment appeals for seven

Today’s climate makes hiring an expert to file one’s

different appeals. He describes them as “very efficient,

property tax appeal even more relevant when an increas-

they know the landscape in and out, up and down.” He

ing number of property owners are looking to save money.

adds that they really know how the appeals process

Sachs says she knows at least twenty business owners and

works. Kirlin leased a 97,000 square foot building in

“every single one of them is rethinking what they are going

Rockville and another 75,000 pre-fabricated building in

to do with their office space when their lease comes up ...

Derwood. In both properties, their tax appeals reduced

this time is going to be called coronavirus Armageddon,”

their tax assessments by approximately ten percent. In

she says with a laugh. Business journals write about certain

addition, Rory S. Coakley and Joe McLeod, his associate,

companies not paying their rent, people being laid off and

estimated the final tax assessment after each appeal

many employees finding they prefer working remotely, even

within a few hundred dollars of the final tax bill.

part-time, than trudging into an office every day.

Coakley makes a good case for property owners to hire

Mitchell concurs that the next round of assessments is

an experienced consultant if they feel their real estate tax

going to be fascinating to watch, with the amount of space

assessment is higher than it should be. He notes that the

available, the glut of properties on the market and rents

tax assessment process varies by state and county and

really dropping. Time will tell, but without a doubt Rory S.

it is important to understand the appeals process. This is

Coakley and his firm will be ready for the challenge.

a good argument for hiring an expert with knowledge of appraisals, state and local mandates, approaches to valua-

For a free property tax review call (301) 340-8700 (ext. 1101)

tion and negotiation techniques.

or email Rory@CoakleyRealty.com

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

ROBERT COLLINS OF COLLINS INVESTMENT GROUP AMONG FORBES BEST-IN-STATE WEALTH ADVISORS 2018-2020 CURRENTLY RANKED #7 IN MARYLAND

Give us a call or visit us on the web at collinsinvestmentgroup.com to learn how we can work with you to help you start achieving your financial goals. 6901 Rockledge Drive | Suite 730 | Bethesda | MD | 20817 301.915.9630 | collinsinvestmentgroup.com Robert Collins is Managing Director and CEO of Collins Investment Group. Founder & CEO Rory S Coakley of Coakley Realty

Forbes - Ranking algorithm based on industry experience, interviews, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by SHOOK Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on a ranking. Investment performance is not a criterion. Investment products and services offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Collins Investment Group is a separate entity from WFAFN.

CityLifestyle.com/Potomac

PARTING THOUGHTS

Putting "Kosher," "Chinese" and "Christmas" in One Sentence:

AT THE CHINESE KOSHER RESTAURANT HOLY CHOW, CLASSICS AND SPECIALS MAKE GREAT TAKE-HOME MEALS FOR CHRISTMAS OR HANUKKAH. ARTICLE LAURI GROSS PHOTOGRAPHY MONICA VIDAL

WHEN AMI AND RIVKA SCHREIBER COULDN’T FIND KOSHER CHINESE FOOD NEARBY, THEY BOUGHT

CHINESE

RESTAURANT

AND

REMADE IT INTO ONE THAT OFFERS THE HIGHEST QUALITY CHINESE FOOD THAT IS ALSO KOSHER. After renovations and upgrades, Ami, a software developer, and Rivka, a financial planner, opened Holy Chow in March 2018 in the Kemp Mill Shopping Center in Silver Spring. All the chefs at Holy Chow are Chinese with significant experience at traditional Chinese restaurants and, although Ami estimates that 90 percent of his customers keep kosher, many come just because the food is fantastic. It is also more expensive than other Chinese restaurants. “Our prices are higher because costs are higher,” said Ami who explained that, for instance, the price of kosher meat can be three times as high as meat that is not kosher.

Ami Schreiber

MAKE IT A HOLIDAY FROM HOLY CHOW The Holy Chow menu is full of Chinese favorites, including beef with broccoli, sesame chicken and General Tso’s chicken (or General Chow’s, as it’s known at Holy Chow). Everything on the menu is free of MSG and there are plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options as well. Of course, to keep kosher, there is no pork or shellfish. The restaurant offers takeout, delivery and catering, all of which make it easy to include meals from Holy Chow as part of a holiday celebration at home. At Ami and Rivka’s home this Hanukkah, they’ll make traditional potato latkes with help from their kids (aged 7, 10 and 15) and maybe include some of Ami’s favorite dish from the restaurant: crispy chicken. One of the house specialties, crispy chicken “is a great combination of sweet with a hint of spice,” said Ami who explained that this dish is very popular with his customers. “I’ve yet to find anyone who doesn’t love it,” he said. The Schreiber children pre-

S call 34

ion P a ncake s

Potomac Lifestyle | December 2020

Chic ken Lettuce Wrap

fer the restaurant’s chicken noodle soup. Ami explained, “It’s hearty and they could eat that every day.”