Take Unwanted Furs to Coats for Cubs
• February 7, 2013

With the temperatures dropping and winter in full swing here in D.C., new winter coats are being purchased and old ones are being thrown out. Before you toss the fur that either you no longer want or is in bad shape, take it over to Buffalo Exchange to contribute to its Coats for Cubs drive.

The annual drive aims to collect furs and redistribute them to wildlife rehabilitation programs across the country. Rehab centers use the donated furs as bedding for wild animals, such as raccoons, foxes or even cubs, that have been orphaned or injured. Your unwanted furs can make a natural bedding more suitable than blankets for wild animals.

Buffalo Exchange, the family-owned and -operated fashion resale retailer, took over the program from the Humane Society of the United States in 2006, when financial cuts forced it to discontinue the program. Since then, Buffalo Exchange and the Humane Society have collected more than 7,500 furs.

Donations of real fur coats, accessories, trims and shearlings can be dropped off at Buffalo Exchange’s Georgetown location at 3279 M St., NW, or at its 14th Street location. The drive runs through April 22, which is Earth Day.

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‘House of Cards’: Familiar D.C. Backdrops, New Way to Pay and View
• February 4, 2013

Washington D.C. has long provided great location backdrops for films and TV series, whether it be “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” “National Treasure” or “West Wing.”

The latest series located in D.C. to watch is the new Netflix original series, “House of Cards,” which premieres Friday, Feb. 1, exclusively on the online streaming service. It may be familiar ground but the way viewers see the series is innovative.

Netflix is releasing all 13 episodes of the first season at one time so that viewers can watch them at their own leisure. The success of the House of Cards could change the how people watch television.

The remake of the BBC miniseries follows House Majority Whip Francis Underwood, played by Academy Award-winning actor Kevin Spacey, on his quest for revenge against the newly inaugurated president after being passed over for Secretary of State. The cast also includes Robin Wright as Spacey’s wife, along with Kate Mara and Corey Stoll. Behind the scenes, David Fincher (“Girl With The Dragon Tattoo”) and Beau Willimon (“Ides of March”) portray the darker side of Washington.

Filmed in Maryland, “House of Cards” reportedly cost Netflix $100 million to produce, and the company has already guaranteed 26 episodes of the gripping political thriller. The aim is to draw subscribers in with exclusive, original content they can’t view anywhere else as opposed to paying for more expensive premium cable channels.

As with many TV shows or films set in D.C. there was the obligatory social scene premiere with stars, local politicos and media — this time at the Newseum Jan. 29.

Valentine’s Day Reservations
• February 1, 2013

1789 Restaurant
Bringing together modern, local ingredients and old country charm, 1789 is offering a shortened version of their full menu, including sustainable seafood, like lobster from Rock Hill, Maryland, and dry aged beef from the Shenandoah Valley Beef Co-Op.

Bistrot Lepic
The “Grand Little” restaurant in upper Georgetown serves up classic French cuisine, with an extensive wine bar. The Valentine’s Day menu features duck, lamb, seafood, and a vegetarian option alongside a range of appetizers, with an optional cheese course. Starting at $69.95 per person.

Sea Catch Restaurant
Overlooking the Chesapeake & Ohio canal, Sea Catch provides a more casual atmosphere. They are serving up a four-course prix fixe dinner menu featuring some of their famous seafood, at $75 a person. All weekend couples can enjoy an ‘aphrodisiac starters kit,’ for $30, including two glasses of Prosecco and a dozen oysters.

Bistro Francais
Dine on classic French cuisine and homemade pastries at the award-winning Bistro Francais. Open until 3a.m. on Valentine’s Day, the award winning restaurant is offering a three course special menu all weekend long, as well as their a la carte menu.

Bourbon Steak
Just off the lobby of the Four Seasons, Bourbon Steak is a classic steak and seafood with a modern twist, all envisioned by James Beard award winner, Michael Mina. For $95 a person, Bourbon Steak offers a three-course meal that includes soup or salad, a selection of entrees and fabulous desserts.

Café Milano
A favorite of celebrities, the famed Italian restaurant will be serving their complete a la carte menu as well as a four course prix-fixe tasting menu, starting at $75 per person. Also, enter for a chance to win round trip airfare for two to Italy!

Blues Alley
If you are in the mood for a show on Valentine’s Day, check out Blues Alley’s dinner and a show package featuring Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Jerry “The Iceman” Butler. $100 per person.

Paolo’s Ristorante
Traditional Italian made California fresh, Paolo’s is known for its pizza and pasta. Featuring a three-course prefixed menu, $100 per couple, add a bottle of Stellina Prosecco or Poema Cava for just $25 more.

Neyla
A melting pot of Mediterranean foods, Neyla’s three-course prix fixe menu includes steak, lamb, sea bass, and a vegetarian option along with a starter and dessert. For $75 a person, chocolate dipped strawberries and a glass of champagne are complimentary.

Morton’s
The renowned steakhouse will be serving their full dinner menu, as well as offering a steak and lobster special for only $49.95. Also, check out their Valentine’s Day cocktail, The Red Velvet. The cocktail and steak and lobster menu are available Feb. 13-16.
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