Introducing These Are The People in Your Neighborhood … Bethesda Oh these are the people in your neighborhood, in your neighborhood … in your neighborhood! Fans of Ernie & Bert will know where we are coming from. Welcome to our brand-new series at TheListAreYouOnIt.com, where we take you on an insider journey through the neighborhoods that make our community so unique. "These Are The People in Your Neighborhood" celebrates the local charm, hidden gems, and vibrant personalities that bring each area to life. Whether you're a lifelong local or a curious visitor, our guides will help you uncover the stories, spots, and events that make your neighborhood special.Spotlight on Downtown Bethesda – Where Culinary Delights, Artistic Flair, and Cultural Adventures ConvergeA Vibrant Urban ExperienceLocated in the heart of the Greater Washington, D.C. area, downtown Bethesda is a lively neighborhood renowned for its rich mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment. With its exceptional walkability, spend leisurely afternoons strolling along its charming streets, taking in the sights, sounds, and unique energy of a true downtown experience.Retail Therapy and Unique BoutiquesShopping alert: The Bethesda Row area is home to a mix of popular national brands and trendy local favorites. Discover renowned jewelry brands such as Mejuri, Gorjana, and Kendra Scott, along with fashion-forward clothing labels including Jenni Kayne, Veronica Beard, Vuori, Madewell, and Reformation. Keep an eye out for soon-to-open retailers like Evereve, Rails, Indigo Octopus, and FP Movement, just a little more excitement bein gadded  to the shopping scene.For those looking for a more intimate retail experience, Woodmont Triangle’s charming enclave features a collection of independently owned shops, including the return of Wonderland Books, The Blue House, Reddz Trading, Bone Jour, and Big Planet Comics.Energize and Elevate: Wellness and Fitness in BethesdaSeeking a blend of self-care and dynamic fitness experiences, Bethesda offers a range of wellness retreats and workout facilities. Indulge in luxurious treatments at skincare favorites like Glo 360 Facials and Medspa, Aveda Salon & Spa, and Hey Day Skincare, while everyday vitality is boosted by innovative therapies such as sensory deprivation tanks, contrast therapy at Hope floats, and the latest in IV therapy from Prime Hydration & Wellness. Lastly, Bethesda Salt Cave offers HaloTherapy and full body detox. Fitness enthusiasts can choose from posh, full-service centers like Equinox and The St. James or opt for energizing sessions with SoulCycle, Barre3, and Orange Theory. Plus, keep an eye out for free fitness events in the park this summer that offer a refreshing way to stay active and connected with the community. Foodie AlertDowntown Bethesda is a haven for food enthusiasts. While the area is famed for its diverse culinary scene, it’s more than just a dining destination. Savor international flavors at eateries like Tout de Sweet (a French pastry shop), Mussel Bar & Grille (Belgian), Olazzo (Italian), Gringos & Mariachis (Mexican), Kusshi (Sushi), Cubano’s (Cuban), Guardado’s (Spanish), and Barrel and Crow (American). Each spot is perfectly positioned within walking distance of great shops, convenient Metro access, and local arts and entertainment venues.A Scenic Adventure for AllBethesda is not only a haven for food lovers and shoppers, but it also offers an array of outdoor activities. The famed Crescent Trail beckons you to explore its meandering path—whether you choose to rent a Capital Bike for an easy ride all the way down to historic Georgetown or prefer a leisurely walk into the serene expanses of Rock Creek Park. This journey offers a refreshing dose of nature and builds up the perfect appetite for the culinary delights awaiting you back in downtown Bethesda. A Hub of Community and CultureDowntown Bethesda is also a center for culture and community. This spring, the neighborhood comes alive with a dynamic lineup of events:Play in a Day: Saturday, March 8 at 8pmLocal Writer’s Showcase: March 14 and March 15 at 7pmBethesda Film Fest: Friday, April 4 and Saturday, April 5 at 7pmBethesda Art Walk: April 11Bethesda Fine Arts Festival: May 10 and 11These events offer the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local scene, connect with creative minds, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Bethesda.For more information and details on upcoming events, visit www.bethesda.org.  

Harmony CPA blog interviewed Nycci on navigating the new media landscape, and protecting your brand. See all of her insight and suggestions, here.

With Valentine’s Day just days away, Nycci shares a variety of last-minute ways to enjoy the long holiday weekend in and around Washington, DC. From classic dinner-and-a-show plans to creative, experience-driven outings, she emphasizes that there’s still plenty of time to plan something meaningful. Options include live performances, theater, rooftop cocktails, museum exhibits, and interactive activities that pair culture with dining. For those looking to stay active, Nycci highlights outdoor adventures like scenic hikes followed by cozy spots to unwind, as well as unique indoor experiences perfect for groups or couples. For anyone hoping to truly go all out, she notes that hotels and spas across the city are offering special Valentine’s packages that combine relaxation, dining, and entertainment. Nycci has rounded up all of these ideas and more on TheListAreYouOnIt.com, making it easy to plan a memorable weekend.

Hey everyone, it’s Nycci Nellis, and welcome back to Industry Night, where we go behind the scenes with the people shaping the hospitality industry, not just through food and drink, but through culture and community. Today’s show is a special one. I’m coming to you from one of my favorite rooms in the city, a.kitchen + bar at Hotel AKA,  a place that's the perfect backdrop for conversations about leadership and vision (and a killer burger!).This episode is about family and what it really takes to build something lasting in hospitality, especially at a moment when so many restaurants are fighting just to stay open.Later in the show, I’ll be joined by Ellen Yin and Chef de Cuisine George Madovsky for a conversation about thoughtful cooking in one of the city’s most beloved dining rooms.But first,  a conversation I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. I’m genuinely excited because I’ve known Omar and Fatima Popal since they were in their early twenties, long before The Popal Group became one of the most respected hospitality families in Washington, D.C. When the Popal family opened Café Bonaparte in Georgetown in 2003 — what many of you now know as Lutèce — they weren’t just opening a restaurant. They were building a new life. They were also some of the very first advertisers on http://TheListAreYouOnIt.com , and watching their journey unfold over the years has been nothing short of remarkable.Today, Omar Popal is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of The Popal Group, leading concept development, design, and long-term vision for restaurants including Lapis, Lapop, Lutèce, Pascual, and Maison Bar à Vins. Fatima Popal, Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer, oversees financial strategy, human resources, growth, and philanthropy.  All while fiercely protecting the people-first culture that defines the group.Together, they represent a powerful family story rooted in Afghan heritage and a hospitality group that continues to grow while staying deeply authentic.Let’s get into it. Listen to the full episode here and watch it here.