Living
Kiddie craze
From toddlers to teens, our roundup will give you ideas for some of the hottest toys and games this year

Editor’s note: This is the third of a five-part series on holiday gift-giving ideas. We’ll explore gift ideas in several categories. Up next week: home decor.
Kinect
Probably the most highly anticipated gift of the holiday season, the Kinect for Xbox 360 is the new controller-free, motion and voice sensing system that promises to get the whole family off the sofa and dancing, racing cars and playing sports. Forget what your mom said about no playing ball in the house. ($149.99 at Best Buy)
Call of Duty
If the game lover in your family didn’t buy it as soon as it was released, it’s about time to get them Call of Duty: Black Ops, the newest in the incredibly successful series of warfare games. It’s a must have this year for any console or PC. ($54.96 from Amazon)
Toy Story 3 DVD
Some of Disney and Pixar’s most memorable characters are back in a new adventure that had audiences in tears and uproarious laughter. For a good-hearted good time, pick up a copy of Toy Story 3, available in Blu-ray and DVD. ($19.99 from Amazon)
Taylor Swift CD
Chances are the tween in your family has already bought a copy of country superstar Taylor Swift’s third studio album, “Speak Now” (Big Machine Records) but do they have the Target Deluxe Edition featuring additional tracks, remixes and 30 minutes of video? (Only at Target for $16.99)
Leapster Explorer
For the little ones, about ages 4 to 9, consider the Leapster Explorer from Leapfrog. This hand-held, touch screen game system is a great way to get them learning and having fun at the same time and includes online activities. The educational games teach everything from spelling to math and parents, you can track your child’s progress online. ($69.99 from Toys R Us)
Crayola Beginnings Color Me A Song
The budding artiste in the family will appreciate the Crayola Beginnings Color Me A Song. This new toy lets your child control create music as they color, the faster they color, the faster the tune. They can even change the instrument and style of music, from country to rock, salsa and swing. ($17.99 from Crayola)
Bop It Bounce
Say goodbye to the paddle with a ball attached by a string, and say hello to Bop It Bounce. This new toy challenges kids through six levels of ball bouncing, and if it continues in true Bop It tradition, should keep determined kids entertained for hours. ($19.99 Toys R Us)
Scrabble Flash Cubes
Finally, Hasbro has reinvented its classic Scrabble game into an electronic and portable version that seems just fast paced enough to entertain today’s kids. With Scrabble Flash Cubes, players aged 8 and up must rearrange the lettered cubes to form words. It’s classic educational fun with a modern twist. ($20 on Amazon)
“Just Dance 2” for Wii
Just Dance 2 for Nintendo Wii is making a splash with kids of all ages. This installment contains better movement recognition than its predecessor and more than 40 songs, including many contemporary hits, for kids to get up and groove to. ($39.99 from GameStop)
“Assassin’s Creed”
“Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood” is the third installment of the critically and player-acclaimed series of games for PS3 and Xbox 360. Suited for older teenage gamers, this chapter includes more weapons, multiplayer modes and interaction with real historical characters like Leonardo Da Vinci. ($59.99 from GameStop)
“Glee” CDs
With nine CDs to choose from, you should have no trouble finding a suitable gift for your favorite Gleek. The catchy covers from the incredibly popular show are captured on albums, such as “Glee: Best of Season One,” which includes a bonus karaoke CD. Look for this one online, though, as it’s only available in the UK. ($24.29 on Amazon)
Harry Potter box set
They’ve seen all the movies at midnight premiers dressed as their favorite characters, but have your kids read the books that started the phenomenon? Those who need to catch up and hardcore fans will love the Harry Potter Hardcover Boxed Set that includes all seven books. Make sure they finish before the final movie comes out. ($114.07 from Barnes & Noble)
“Diary of a Whimpy Kid”
Currently the bestselling children’s book, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth (the fifth book in the popular series) is the perfect gift for your 8-12 year old book lover. Kids will relate to the main character as he settles a fight with his best friend and contemplates his upcoming puberty. After they’ve read all the books, check out the movie that was released earlier this year. ($7.67 from Barnes & Noble)
HRC store clothes
Help support Human Rights Campaign’s fight for LGBT equality by visiting their store at 1633 Connecticut Avenue and browse their selection of kids clothing promoting equality. They’ve got something for kids of all ages, including this adorable baby romper. ($14 from HRC Store)
Items from Pulp
If you want to support local gay-owned shops, check out Pulp at 1803 14th Street in Washington for “I Love My Dads” onesies — perfect for Pride — or kid-friendly gay books such as “King and King.”
Autos
A cheeky convertible: Mercedes CLE 450
Riding the freeway of love with the top down and spirits up

“Drop the top, baby!… Drop the pedal and go!”So croons Aretha Franklin in “Freeway of Love,” her classic song about a joyride in a pink Cadillac convertible.
Those free-spirited lyrics came to mind recently each time I got behind the wheel of an equally exquisite ride: the Mercedes CLE 450.
MERCEDES CLE 450 CONVERTIBLE
$76,000
MPG: 23 city/32 highway
0 to 60 mph: 4.2 seconds
Cargo space: 9.6 cu. ft.
PROS: Dreamy design. Divine handling. Dazzling amenities.
CONS: Cramped cargo area. Kinda impractical for everyday driving.
IN A NUTSHELL: Who needs two fine open-top chariots when one fabulous convertible will do? That seems to be the thinking at Mercedes, which recently replaced two of its cabriolets—the compact C-Class and midsize E-Class—with the brand-new CLE 450.
While the wheelbase is a wee bit shorter than on the outgoing E-Class model, the CLE is longer overall than either of its two former siblings. The result: more legroom than expected, especially for anyone in the front seats. Even backseat occupants may feel comfy (OK, perhaps not Brittney Griner or Carl Nassib, but still…).
Alas, trunk space is slightly scrunched, thanks to the folding fabric roof. But that power-operated top—available in black, gray or red—can be raised and lowered with the car traveling at speeds up to 37 mph. And the triple-layer acoustic material provides excellent insulation and greatly reduces outside noise. In fact, I often had to remind myself this was the CLE convertible and not the hardtop coupe.
There’s also a wind-deflector apparatus that, when activated, elevates airflow off the windshield and reduces backflow with a rear mesh screen. For added pampering, an AIRSCARF system lives up to its name, sending warm air onto the necks of front-seat passengers. (Don’t tell my husband, but I felt like an invisible suitor was wooing me, seductively blowing kisses my way.)
Convertibles usually are not as structurally rigid as their hardtop counterparts. But here again, Mercedes works its magic: The chassis—made of aluminum and high-strength steel—is so incredibly stiff that there’s absolutely no shake and shimmy. This solid body structure also provides for a safe vehicle shell.
Under the hood, there’s a spirited 375-hp turbo engine, augmented by grippy all-wheel drive and a graceful nine-speed automatic transmission. As a crazed soccer fan, I think it’s not too much of a stretch to say the driving experience combines the speed, sass and savvy of a star athlete (think Megan Rapinoe).
Inside, there are plenty of premium styling cues, as well a glitzy dashboard with 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.9-inch multimedia touchscreen. Yes, the CLE borrows heavily from the C-Class and E-Class. But somehow—perhaps because of the low ground clearance and multi-contour seats (which include heating, ventilation and massage functions)—this cabin feels and functions more like a true cockpit.
Along with all the driver-assistance features, there are 11 airbags (including rear head airbags), pop-up roll bars and a drowsy-driver alert monitor. In case of an impending crash, an accident-preparedness system immediately tightens seatbelts, adjusts seats and closes windows.
I could go on about all the amenities, including a 17-speaker Burmester surround-sound stereo, the 64-color ambient-lighting system and more. But why bother? This is a Mercedes, after all, so you expect such babying.
What wasn’t expected? How much I keep missing this beauty after my weeklong test drive ended. It’s not as if soft-tops are practical, like minivans and SUVs. And two-door rides—coupes or cabrios—now account for less than 4% of all new-vehicle sales.
But Aretha would have understood. Classy convertibles, like her pink Caddy and the Mercedes CLE 450, represent open-air freedom and the promise of adventure.
“So jump in, it ain’t no sin. Take a ride in my machine.”
Real Estate
Pride, patriotism, and prosperity
Real estate plays role in honoring servicemembers’ legacy

As the calendar turns to late May and early June, several powerful movements and celebrations converge in a profound and colorful tapestry of remembrance, Pride, and progress.
Memorial Day in the United States honors the sacrifices of military personnel who gave their lives in service. Simultaneously, WorldPride and Black Pride commemorate both the historical struggles and enduring strength of LGBTQ+ communities worldwide.
Though these observances may seem distinct, they share powerful commonalities — solemnity, resilience, and the pursuit of equity. When viewed through the lens of real estate and community development, their intersection reveals the critical importance of space, ownership, and inclusion.
Memorial Day is more than a barbecue, a long weekend, or the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn remembrance of those who laid down their lives for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Many of these fallen heroes came from marginalized backgrounds, including a rainbow of LGBTQ+ Americans who served valiantly, often without recognition or equal rights at home.
LGBTQ+ service members have fought in silence for decades, only gaining the right to serve openly in recent years and then having that opportunity for some individuals snatched back simply because of who they are. Memorial Day is a chance not only to honor their service but also as a reminder of the injustices they endured.
Real estate plays a role in their legacy. For decades, returning veterans used the GI Bill to buy homes and build generational wealth; however, discriminatory practices like redlining and restrictive covenants denied Black veterans the same opportunities, contributing to the racial wealth gap that persists today. Similarly, LGBTQ+ veterans and their partners often faced housing discrimination with little legal recourse. These systemic barriers underscore how access to safe and equitable housing is part of the fight for justice.
Black Pride events emerged in response to racism within the broader LGBTQ+ movement, asserting that Black queer lives matter and deserve visibility. Held in cities across the globe, Black Pride is not just a festival — it is a political and cultural declaration. It amplifies voices at the intersection of race and sexuality, advocating for people who are disproportionately impacted by housing insecurity and gentrification.
Many urban neighborhoods that were once cultural havens for queer communities are being transformed by rising rents and redevelopment. While revitalization can bring economic opportunity, it must be done equitably, with safeguards in place to ensure that long-standing residents are not displaced. Real estate, in this context, becomes a tool for resistance and renewal.
WorldPride, a global event celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, is hosted by a different city every few years. It draws millions of participants, shines an international spotlight on LGBTQ+ issues, and highlights disparities in rights and protections worldwide. In countries where queer identities are criminalized, safe housing can be a matter of life and death.
Even in more progressive regions, LGBTQ+ individuals often face subtle yet persistent discrimination from landlords, real estate agents, and lending institutions. In the real estate industry, advocacy groups are working to increase representation, offer training, define ethical responsibilities, and advocate for inclusive policies to ensure housing is truly accessible to all.
The convergence of WorldPride with Memorial Day and Black Pride invites deeper reflection: What kind of world are we building in memory of those who came before? How can we ensure that freedom, the very principle so many fought and died for, includes the right to live openly and securely, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality?
The real estate industry has a unique role in shaping the future. From urban planning to homeownership policy, to income-based downpayment grants, it directly influences who has access to stability and opportunity.
Developers, policymakers, and community leaders must work together to address housing disparities. This includes funding affordable housing, protecting tenants from discrimination, and investing in communities that have been historically excluded. It also means respecting cultural legacies and ensuring that neighborhoods reflect the diversity of the people who live in them.
Memorial Day reminds us of the cost of freedom. International Pride events remind us that the fight for freedom is ongoing. As we honor the fallen, let us also honor the living – those who continue to fight for their right to exist, to love, and to call a place home. Whether waving a flag at a Pride parade, laying a wreath at a soldier’s grave, or signing a first-time homebuyer agreement, these moments are connected by the enduring belief that everyone deserves dignity, safety, and a place to belong.
Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in DC, MD & VA with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at (202) 246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.
Real Estate
Tips for buying a house in Rehoboth Beach
And why it’s a great fit for the LGBTQ community

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a charming beach house where flip-flops are considered formalwear and sunsets are your daily entertainment, Rehoboth Beach, Del., might just be your dream come true. It’s not just a beautiful coastal town—it’s also a long celebrated safe haven and vibrant hub for the LGBTQ community. Let’s dive into why Rehoboth Beach is a fabulous choice and how to make a savvy beach house purchase.
Why Rehoboth Is a Vibe (especially for the LGBTQ community)
1. A Welcoming, Inclusive Community
Rehoboth Beach has been lovingly nicknamed the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” and it’s not just because of its proximity to D.C. For decades, Rehoboth has built a reputation as a warm, inclusive, and LGBTQ-friendly destination. From gay-owned businesses to LGBTQ events and nightlife, this is a town where you can truly be yourself.
2. Packed Social Calendar
Poodle Beach, the LGBTQ beach hangout just south of the boardwalk, is always buzzing in the summer. Events like Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend, Women’s FEST, and CAMP Rehoboth’s myriad of social and wellness events bring people together all year round. That’s right—you’ll never be bored here unless you want to be.
3. Small Town Charm Meets Big City Culture
You get art galleries, drag brunches, live theater, eclectic cuisine, and adorable boutiques—basically everything your soul craves—without the chaos and crowds of major cities. It’s quaint but never boring. Think: Key West vibes with a Delaware zip code.
Tips for Buying Your Dream Beach House
1. Know Your Budget and Think Long Term. Beachfront and near-beach properties come at a premium. Expect to pay a bit more for proximity to the sand and ocean views.
2. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely. Do you want to be walking distance from the action on the boardwalk? Or do you prefer something more secluded in areas like North Shores or Henlopen Acres?
3. Rental Potential. If you’re not living there full time, your beach house could work overtime as a vacation rental. Rehoboth Beach has a healthy short-term rental market, especially in peak summer. Often times LGBTQ travelers actively seek inclusive, affirming places to stay.
4. Weather the Weather. Like all coastal areas, Rehoboth comes with a side of salt air and occasional storms. Invest in a good home inspection, especially for older homes, and be prepared for the maintenance that comes with beachfront living (yes, that includes sand everywhere).
5. Work With a Local Real Estate Agent. Look for an agent who knows Rehoboth inside and out and understands the unique needs of LGBTQ buyers. This isn’t just a house — it’s your happy place. You want someone who sees that and says, “Let’s find your sanctuary.”
Buying a beach house in Rehoboth Beach isn’t just about real estate — it’s about finding a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and need for both community and calm. Whether it becomes your full-time home, your weekend escape, or your Airbnb side hustle, Rehoboth welcomes you with open arms (and maybe a mimosa).
Want personalized tips on navigating the Rehoboth Beach real estate market? Let’s chat! I’ll bring the listings if you bring the sunscreen.
Justin Noble is a Realtor with The Burns & Noble Group with Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware. Reach him at [email protected] or 202-234-3344.