While watching a recent episode of The Bachelorette, an ABC2 commercial announced the Baltimore open casting call for The Bachelor at Maryland Live Casino on July 7. I texted my friend, “I’m going.”

I thought about wearing my Baltimore magazine “Top Single” button from February’s party, but thought, “Too much. Don’t crush the hopes of the other women at the casting call.”

The casino seems like a perfect place to find the next “Bachelor” and “Bachelorette.” So many lights! So much excitement! So many slot machines! When I got to the casting area, there were several dozen women, not the hundreds I had anticipated—in off-the-shoulder tops and cocktail dresses. As one tall blonde woman was getting her photo taken by a producer, her friend was snapping the same shots from her cell phone. “How do I look?” “You look hot!”

Women seemed hopeful, coming to the casting for a chance to end runs of bad dating luck, try something new, or because parents and bosses encouraged them to audition. A redhead in line behind me said she’d left work early to audition, and that she’d owe her boss a favor after she made the show.

After a producer took photos of my face (smoky eyes) and body (black cocktail dress), I stepped into the area where mostly slender white women in their 20s and 30s were filling out questionnaires, and a curious foursome in their 60s were enjoying cocktails. I walked up to the couples, and asked if they were auditioning. They said, “We’re here to cheer! To cheer for you!” They lifted their drinks to me, and I knew I’d won already.

I completed the questionnaire, which included the usual dating inquiries: What are your hobbies and interests? Do you have any pets? Have you ever had a temporary restraining order issued against someone or had one issued against you?

The eligibility requirements seemed reasonable enough: “Applicants must be willing and able to participate in physical activities such as: skydiving, snow skiing, ice skating, parasailing, water skiing, rollerblading, and the like”; “Applicants acknowledge, understand, and agree that . . . use or revelation of Personal Information and Recordings . . . may be embarrassing, unfavorable, humiliating, and/or derogatory and/or may portray him or her in a false light.”

After giving my paperwork to a producer, I was directed to the next waiting area. Upon entering, a young man awkwardly handed me a pink rose tied with ribbons dangling with marketing pieces: “Watch the premiere of Bachelor in Paradise on August 2”; “We picked this rose just for you in hopes you find a love that is true! Your friends at, Radebaugh Florist.”

A woman with flawless makeup and well-moisturized hair at my table said she wanted another drink before seeing the producers. I, too, was interested in enjoying at least one G&T, but before we could get our cocktail waitress’ attention, it was our turn to go to the next stage. We were paraded past craps tables and slot machines kind of like a bedazzled perp walk, and lined up outside a private room.

The only curvy woman at the call, I walked with whom I could surmise was the only woman of color, a dreaded young woman in a black button-up and small black bowtie. She said she’d traveled from Virginia to audition “because it was close.” I then asked my neighbors if they’d seen Unreal, the fictional Lifetime series that exposes what happens behind the scenes of a reality dating show. The woman, who had wanted another vodka-soda, said she had. I said I had hoped we’d be plied with Fireball shots like the producers do to contestants on the show, and then I was summoned behind a curtain for the video interview.

I told the producer, a skinny young man in his early 20s, about my past relationships, mainly my organic-farmer ex, who didn’t have electricity or running water, and my tendency to date men who play bass guitar or have other fun professions like rapper, puppeteer, or retired baseball player. I said I wanted to be on the show for James Taylor, one of the remaining contestants on the current season of The Bachelorette. I said I was a huge fan of James Taylor, the elder, too. He did not get the joke, and I kind of regret not taking it further: “I love ‘Sweet Baby James,’ and I’d love to make sweet babies with James, so I think I should be on the show”; “I’ve seen fire and I’ve seen rain, and I’ve seen myself riding in helicopters with James.”

The producer then wrote down some notes on my application, and then picked up the camera for a full-body video pan. Because dancing feels better than being objectified, I hair-whipped, shimmied, and did a little kick as the camera scanned me from curled ’do to curvy hips to strappy heels. And in less than 30 minutes, the whole thing was done.

While I wouldn’t bet on my chances of advancing in the application process (since no average-sized human woman ever has), I had a damn good time going to the open casting. And I got a rose.

We photographed this year’s Top Singles, the area’s 20 most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes, in settings that best fit their respective personalities. Whether we showed them being adventurous at the National Aquarium, inquisitive at the Peabody Library, creative at the BMA, or cultured at Verde Pizza, these spots made the ideal backdrop. (Not to mention we got to play with sharks, climb on sculptures, snack on pizza, and explore old books.) Just goes to show: This city is full of fun—you just have to know where to look!

SPONSORED BY
UNION WHARF

Ashley Mancinelli

39, manager, gift planning and major gifts, The Walters Art Museum, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? To Kill a Mockingbird. Movie? Top Gun. Food? Pasta with my dad’s homemade sauce. Celebrity dream date? I can’t deny my adoration for Justin Timberlake any longer. Favorite trip? Traveling to Australia for six weeks to study law. How do you stay fit? Run. This sometimes involves wearing a tutu or navigating an obstacle course in the mud, and most recently, a half-marathon. Your creative outlet: Handwritten notes. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I am probably the only Italian without a middle name. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I won a bet! I’m slightly biased since Joe Flacco graduated from my alma mater. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Take my dad to Italy, donate to a cause that funds cancer research, and, of course, pay off my student loans. In three words, describe your perfect fit: sincere, intelligent, romantic.

Christopher Vaeth

30, director, equity client services, Morgan Stanley, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Constant Gardener. TV Show? House Hunters International. Album? CSNY’s Déjà Vu. Food? Johnny Rad’s El Gato pizza with sausage and banana peppers. Celebrity dream date? Alexander Skarsgård. Favorite trip? One winter, I took my mother to Rome and Berlin, two cities in which I have lived and that hold a special place in my heart. Your creative outlet: Cooking! Food, wine, entertaining, and everything epicurean. Are you an animal lover? I have had dogs all my life and am volunteering with the SPCA. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I was a figure skater for the better part of my life, “retiring” and going to college at 21. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I spent the night in a very local corner bar full of unexpected elation. Your dream job? Running a B&B in the Swiss Alps. In three words, describe your perfect fit: kind, loyal, adventurous.

Brian Kleeman

40, professional race car driver, divorced, two kids: William, 12 and Rebecca, 10

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV show? The Office (UK). Movie? The Italian Job. Food? Steak and I’d have an unlimited supply of sea salt for it. Celebrity dream date? Olivia Munn. We would talk nerdy to each other. Your favorite trip? Italy. The history, artwork, and food are simply stunning. Your creative outlet? Life drawing. It’s incredibly relaxing. What would your last meal be? Shrimp scampi over linguini with a white wine cream sauce. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I will go to great lengths to avoid peas. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: There was lots of noise, high fives, and minor gymnastics. Dream job? I already have it. I’ve wanted to race cars since I was a kid. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Buy the Pittsburgh Steelers and disband them——just for fun. In three words, describe your perfect fit: kind, confident, genuine.

Audrey Slade

32, director of public relations, Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Don’t Know Much About History by Kenneth C. Davis. TV Show? The Newsroom. Album? Any Rolling Stones album. Celebrity dream date? Adam Scott (golfer) or James McAvoy. Favorite trip? Spontaneous trip to the Cayman Islands with my sister and my best friend. How do you stay fit? Barre, Pilates, and I walk a lot. Your creative outlet? Karaoke. What would your last meal be? Omakase from chef Jonah [Kim] at PABU. He knows me well and would include a happy spoon, ribs, fried chicken, and sashimi. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I was named after Audrey Hepburn. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I was thrilled for Baltimore to get recognition for something other than The Wire. How would you spend the Mega Millions? One-third to charity, one-third to travel, and one-third in savings. In three words, describe your perfect fit: intriguing, witty, generous.

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Noelle Hopper

28, director of strategic communications, St. Paul’s School for Girls, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Can I bring my iPad? Movie? A League of Their Own. Food? My Buffalo chicken dip. Celebrity dream date? Rupert Friend——tall, dark, and handsome never looked so good. Your creative outlet? Coaching the girls’ club lacrosse team. Are you an animal lover? #Bulldoglover. What would your last meal be? My mom’s Armenian home cooking. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I’m addicted to hand sanitizer. If you could invite any three people to dinner, who would they be? Jane Austen, E. L. James, and my friend EJ. (She always shares her dessert.) When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: It was Christmas in Baltimore! How would you spend the Mega Millions? Hi, you’ve reached Noelle’s voicemail. I’m on a tropical island enjoying Bloody Marys and sunbathing in the company of my favorite people. In three words, describe your perfect fit: honest, confident, engaging.

Kyle Juszczyk

22, fullback, Baltimore Ravens, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . movie? The Departed. Album? Some Nights by Fun. Food? Pierogies. Celebrity dream date? Blake Lively. How do you stay fit? It’s my job. Your creative outlet? Cooking. I prefer home-cooked meals rather than going out. Are you an animal lover? To many people’s surprise, I have a 17-year-old cat named Jumpy. What would your last meal be? Mom’s baked chicken, pierogies with sautéed onions, creamed corn, and steamed carrots with ginger. If you could invite any three people to dinner, who would they be? Wayne Chrebet, Tim Tebow, and Aziz Ansari. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I was happy for Ray Lewis to go out with a championship. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Buy land in southern Ohio for my brothers and myself to build a lake house. In three words, describe your perfect fit: witty, outgoing, driven.

Julie King

52, letter carrier, US Postal Service and owner, JK Management, divorced, two kids: Jay, 31 and Chandler, 20

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Secret by Rhoda Byrne. Movie? This is 40. Album? The Sea by Corinne Bailey Rae. Celebrity dream date? Mark Wahlberg or Anthony Mackie. How do you stay fit? Deliver mail, crunches, curls, squats, jumping jacks. Your creative outlet? Laughter! What would your last meal be? Fish, mashed potatoes, greens, and macaroni and cheese. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I graduated cum laude from Towson University when I was 44. If you could invite any three people to dinner, who would they be? John Legend, Michael Jackson, and Richard Pryor. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: It was epic! I was so proud. Your dream job?
An Entertainment Tonight/E! news correspondent. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Pay debt, give to charity, open a comedy club, buy homes for my family. In three words, describe your perfect fit: charismatic, funny, kind.

Arman Taghizadeh

36, psychiatrist, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Happiness Project by Rachel Dubin. TV Show? Scrubs. Album? Decade of Decadence by Mötley Crüe. Celebrity dream date? Jillian Michaels (even though she doesn’t date men) or Jennifer Lawrence. How do you stay fit? Running and lifting weights. (They call me Pocket Hercules at the gym!) What would your last meal be? Steamed crabs with a cold Natty Boh. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I strongly considered art school prior to getting a wrestling scholarship for college. If you could invite any three people to dinner, who would they be? Nelson Mandela, Ben Carson, and Ray Lewis. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I was there! I screamed, cried, and hugged my brother. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Pay off my school loans, upgrade my Ravens season tickets, and take my family traveling. In three words, describe your perfect fit: witty, athletic, confident.

Dennis Shields

41, art teacher, Kenwood High School, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Men’s Health. Movie? Wedding Crashers. Album? Any Kenny Chesney. Celebrity dream date? Jana Kramer. How do you stay fit? I go to the gym and play volleyball. Your creative outlet? I’m an artist, so I paint and draw a lot. Also play the guitar. What would your last meal be? Stuffed rockfish (with extra crab meat) and a loaded sweet potato with Vaccaro’s colossal waffle for dessert. What’s something not everyone knows about you? In middle school, I had a perm in the back of my head with feathered hair up top. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Vincent van Gogh, Babe Ruth, and Chris Rock. Your dream job? Professional baseball player or guitarist in a band. In three words, describe your perfect fit: intelligent, attractive, entertaining.

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Will Harrison

38, owner, West Arlington Consulting Group, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Bible. Movie? American Gangster. Album? Thriller. Celebrity dream date? Tamara Taylor from Bones. Your favorite trip? While stationed in the Army, I got to visit Niihau in Hawaii, aka the “Forbidden Island.” How do you stay fit? Run, lift, repeat. What would your last meal be? Surf and turf from The Prime Rib. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I once sold cars. Trust me, the dealership is not your friend. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Colin Powell, Bill Gates, and Reginald Lewis. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I thought, ‘Did the lights really go out in the Superdome?’ How would you spend the Mega Millions? Can you say Hangover Part IV? In three words, describe your perfect fit: ambitious, independent, dreamer.

Chelsea Needel

29, social worker, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at University of Maryland Medical Center, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The local island newspaper. Movie? Dirty Dancing. Album? Summer Jams 2000 mix CD my best friend made. Food? Bananas. Celebrity dream date? Mark Wahlberg. Your favorite trip? Cambodia with my older brother. How do you stay fit? City Sweat boot camp at Charm City Fitness. What would be your last meal? My mom’s cooking—kishka and a side of chopped liver. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? My grandparents, whom I never got the opportunity to meet. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I thought, ‘I should have gone.’ Your dream job? Working for the CIA (has a little something to do with Homeland). How would you spend the Mega Millions? Save/invest a large portion of it. In three words, describe your perfect fit: Just need one—’Bashert.’

Mark McTamney

29, director of marketing, Parking Panda, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin. TV Show? Breaking Bad. Album? The Black Album by Jay-Z. Celebrity dream date? Blake Lively. Your favorite trip? Weeklong cruise through the Caribbean. How do you stay fit? Gym and, sadly, trying to relive my glory days in social-league sports. Are you an animal lover? Absolutely. People who don’t like dogs can’t be trusted. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I sound like an angel when singing karaoke. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Dave Chappelle, David Blaine, and Leonardo DiCaprio. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I celebrated on the town with friends, but I’m a diehard Eagles fan. Your dream job? Startup CEO. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Private islands, robot servants, pet tigers, yachts, unicorns. The works. In three words, describe your perfect fit: witty, driven, easygoing.

Carrie Podles

40, owner, Alexander’s Tavern, never been married, one kid: Alexander, 12

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Lord of the Rings. TV Show? Scandal. Movie? Return of the Jedi. Food? Stovetop butter popcorn. Celebrity dream date? Ryan Reynolds. Your favorite trip? Las Vegas, every time. How do you stay fit? Run and the occasional sit-up. Are you an animal lover? Yes! Except for hermit crabs. My son brought one home from the beach, and we are failing to bond. What would your last meal be? Gluten. Every form of gluten. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I love riding horses. Growing up, I wanted to be a jockey. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Arty Donovan, Ellen DeGeneres, and my late father. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: There were tears, pride, and lots of hugs with strangers. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Slowly. In three words, describe your perfect fit: funny, relaxed, honest.

Ginger Robinson

33, attorney, The Law Office of Ginger R. Robinson, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV Show? The original 90210. Album? Make Yourself by Incubus. Food? Brie and gingersnaps. Celebrity dream date? Brandon Boyd: good hair, good ink, good ideals. Your favorite trip? A solo road trip to Savannah; each meal was better than the next. How do you stay fit? I thank my mother. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Madonna, James Madison. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: No one deserved it more than Ray. He’s done amazing things for this town. Your dream job? Playing bass in a metal band. How would you spend the Mega Millions? I think it’s about time someone brings basketball back to Baltimore. In three words, describe your perfect fit: confident, compassionate, clever.

Tim Gober

33, owner/CEO, Baltimore Pain Relief Center, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV show? Boardwalk Empire. Album? OK Computer by Radiohead. Food? Wasabi and soy sauce for the sushi I will catch. Celebrity dream date? Mila Kunis. Your favorite trip? South Africa for the World Cup, safari, and great-white diving. How do you stay fit? Triathlons and club soccer. What would your last meal be? Roast rack of lamb, grilled asparagus, and garlic mashed potatoes. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I make gourmet pickles. The more sour, the better. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? My great-grandfather George, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Will Ferrell. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Grant myself more vacation days to travel to cities around the world. In three words, describe your perfect fit: vibrant, adventurous, creative.

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Jayesh Jariwala

37, project manager, Applied Control Engineering, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV show? Lost series. Movie? Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner? Food? Pizza! Celebrity dream date? Zooey Deschanel. She is quirky and smart. Your favorite trip? A 15-day trip to southern Japan and South Korea. What’s your creative outlet? Robots! I mentor local students and teach them how to program and build a robot. What would your last meal be? My mom’s curry chicken. What’s something not everyone knows about you? How much I get wrapped up in movies and shows. It’s a great escape. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Napolean Hill, Mahatma Gandhi, and my father. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I am a transplant, and it was so exciting to see a time ignite the city so much. In three words, describe your perfect fit: confident, adventurous, passionate.

Jennifer Quinn

32, director of marketing, The Woodmont Company, never been married, one kid: Logan, 4

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV Show? Scandal. Movie? Top Gun. Album? Tri-State by Above and Beyond. Celebrity dream date? Ryan Reynolds. Your favorite trip? Driving across Europe with six friends in a Tahoe. How do you stay fit? Chasing after my 4-year-old. Mommy muscles. What’s your creative outlet? I like to paint. And I’m beginning to take cello lessons again. What would your last meal be? I’m a steak and potatoes kind of gal. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I was a state champ in archery. I’m the real life Katniss. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Gwen Stefani, Jennifer Lawrence, and Jacoby Jones. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I screamed, ‘I knew it!’ Your dream job? Own my own fashion boutique in the city. In three words, describe your perfect fit: tall, adventurous, honest.

Heather Keating

33, marketing and communications manager, Creative Alliance, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV show? Gilligan’s Island. Movie? To Catch a Thief. Food? Cheese! Celebrity dream date? Easy. Johnny Depp. Your favorite trip? Surfing in Costa Rica. How do you stay fit? Sign up for every random sport in the city——floor hockey, beach volleyball, broom ball. What is your creative outlet? I’ve been a freelance photographer for the past 10 years. What would your last meal be? Lobster mac and cheese and a bottle of red. What is something not everyone knows about you? I had a pet baby iguana for a month. We were mutually terrified of each other. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? Etta James, Andy Warhol, and Christopher Walken. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I watched the party in Fells Point and was really cold. Your dream job? I might have it! How would you spend the Mega Millions? Travel, swanky meals, geeky camera stuff. In three words, describe your perfect fit: creative, quirky, curious.

Michael Allred

49, director of security, Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University, divorced, two kids: Casey, 19 and Clayton, 12

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV show? Breaking Bad. Movie? Castaway. Album? Their Greatest Hits (1971-1975) by The Eagles. Celebrity dream date? Kristin Wiig. Your favorite trip? Mission trip to build a deaf school in Jamaica. How do you stay fit? Work out and run. What is your creative outlet? Guitar. What’s something not everyone knows about you? I only have one kidney. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? John F. Kennedy, Sylvester Stallone, and Stevie Nicks. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I felt elation and relief. What’s your dream job? Batman. How would you spend the Mega Millions? Give some to family and buy a ranch. In three words, describe your perfect fit: honest, intelligent, funny.

Terrance Reed

30, IT administration, Under Armour, never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV show? The Simpsons. Movie? Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Album? Blueprint 3 by Jay-Z. Celebrity dream date? Paula Patton. Your favorite trip? Europe for my birthday: three countries, 10 days, countless shenanigans. How do you stay fit? Boxing is one hell of a workout. What’s your creative outlet? Music. Throw on a pair of headphones and let the ideas flow. What would be your last meal? Angus burger from Burger Bar in Amsterdam. If you could invite three people to dinner, who would they be? George Washington, Bob Marley, and my grandmother. When the Ravens won the Super Bowl: I was in a bar in Fells Point and excited to see how crazy it would get. Your dream job? Travel writer. In three words, describe your perfect fit: smart, funny, independent.

We photographed this year’s Top Singles, the area’s 20 most eligible
bachelors and bachelorettes, in settings that best fit their respective
personalities. Whether we showed them being adventurous at the National
Aquarium, inquisitive at the Peabody Library, creative at the BMA, or
cultured at Verde Pizza, these spots made the ideal backdrop. (Not to
mention we got to play with sharks, climb on sculptures, snack on pizza,
and explore old books.) Just goes to show: This city is full of fun—you
just have to know where to look!

Whether we showed them being adventurous at the National Aquarium, inquisitive at the Peabody Library, creative at the BMA, or cultured at Verde Pizza, these spots made the ideal backdrop. (Not to mention we got to play with sharks, climb on sculptures, snack on pizza, and explore old books.) Just goes to show: This city is full of fun—you just have to know where to look!

There’s only so much a first date, online dating profile, or Facebook page can tell you about potential suitors. Maybe what they do, where they went to school, some of their favorite bands, perhaps an inspirational quote or two. But we wanted to delve a little deeper—to see what makes the 20 top singles in Baltimore tick. We reveal their hidden talents, quirky collections, dream jobs, and traits their friends might not even know exist.

SPONSORED BY BOND STREET SOCIAL

Lisa Nguyen
33, robotic surgery specialist and part-time fitness instructor; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring one . . . book? The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Celebrity dream date? Ryan Gosling. Hidden talents? I can be pretty handy around the house. Describe your closet: I turned one of my bedrooms into a closet/dressing room. It’s my female version of a man cave! What don’t you leave the house without? I never leave without kissing my dog, Sandi, goodbye. Who’s the funniest person alive? Ellen DeGeneres. What’s a perfect date? Late-night hike on top of a hill away from the lights, bring a blanket and bottle of wine, and watch the stars. Deal breakers? Long nails. You win the Mega Millions. How do you spend it? First, I would buy singing lessons. Second, I would hammer through my bucket list. You had me at . . . “May I have this dance?”

Troy Marrocco
29, architect and urban designer, Ayers Saint Gross; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? More of a magazine reader. Men’s Health, ESPN. TV Show? Modern Family. Album? SiriusXM Radio. Food? Pasta with meatballs. Celebrity dream date? Erin Andrews. Any phobias? Heights, roller coasters. Hidden talents? Handling a grill, being fashion-savvy, and singing. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I grew up on the same street as my aunt, uncle, cousin, and grandparents. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? My grandparents, who have passed away. It would be great to talk over their Italian cooking. Who’s your favorite athlete? Cal Ripken Jr., Derek Jeter, Ray Lewis, and Peyton Manning. What’s a trend that you just don’t get? Gangnam Style and Honey Boo Boo. What’s a perfect date? Dinner and drinks, followed by a comedy club or karaoke. You had me at . . . a great smile.

Neil Koch
30, park ranger; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Endurance by Alfred Lansing. TV Show? Seinfeld. Movie? Last of the Mohicans. Album? Uprising by Bob Marley and the Wailers. Food? Pineapple. Celebrity dream date? Nelly Furtado. Any phobias? Seeing my blood drawn. What do you collect? Stones from sentimental places. What’s something about you not everyone knows? Hiked the Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia. Would you date someone of an opposing political party? Definitely. We all offer valid points. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . steadfast. What’s a perfect date? Something simple and outside. What’s your dream job? Ranger, Rocky Mountain National Park. You had me at . . . Boh me.

Makea Corrine King
28, development coordinator, The Arc Baltimore; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Grimm’s Complete Fairy Tales. TV Show? Rock Center. Movie? Empire Records. Album? Brothers by The Black Keys. Food? Sushi. Celebrity dream date? Jeremy Renner. I love a good scowl. Any phobias? Suspension bridges. Hidden talents? I sang at my friend’s wedding and no one booed. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I went to five colleges and had four different majors before graduating in 2011. Who’s your favorite athlete? Ray Rice, Brendon Ayanbadejo, and Chris Kluwe are all doing something positive with their influence. Who’s the funniest person alive? Sterling Archer. What’s a perfect date? Anything other than dinner and a movie. Maybe a brewery tour. Dream job? Boutique owner. You had me at . . . bacon.

Meghan Schultz
26, nurse, Kennedy Krieger Institute; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving. TV Show? Seinfeld. Movie? Elf. Album? Les Misérables soundtrack. Food? Pizza. Celebrity dream date? Alexander Skarsgård. Any phobias? I am deathly afraid of bees. Hidden talents? Memorizing rap lyrics. What don’t you leave the house without? Antibacterial gel. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Bill Clinton, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and Tom Hanks. Would you date someone of an opposing political party? As long as he isn’t a Steelers fan. Who’s your favorite athlete? Ray Lewis. Who’s the funniest person alive? My mom and Rob Delaney on Twitter. Deal breakers? Arrogance, laziness. What’s your dream job? SNL writer. You had me at . . . I love Arrested Development!

Roswell Encina
42, director of communications, Enoch Pratt Free Library; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon. TV Show? Happy Endings. Movie? Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Album? Sigh No More by Mumford & Sons. Food? Duck Duck Goose Pizza from Birroteca. Celebrity dream date? Neil Patrick Harris. Any phobias? Crocs. Hidden talents? Pen twirling and tweeting. What do you collect? Bow ties and pocket squares. Describe your closet: Out since 1999. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Andy Cohen, Truman Capote, and Wanda Sykes. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . reenergized. Who’s your favorite athlete? Brendon Ayanbadejo. What’s a perfect date? Something spontaneous. Deal breakers? Ignorance and smoking. What’s your dream job? Today show co-anchor. You had me at . . . your last tweet.

Steven Bottcher
35, CEO/owner of All Pro Team Sports; divorced

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Good to Great by Jim Collins. TV Show? Duck Dynasty. Movie? Wedding Crashers. Album? Greatest Hits by Tim McGraw. Food? Anything with crab. Celebrity dream date? Jennifer Aniston. Hidden talents? Writing. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I go to church every Sunday. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Jesus Christ, Vince Lombardi, and Albert Einstein. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . unforgettable, but they broke up with me too soon. Who’s your favorite athlete? Michael Jordan. What’s a trend that you just don’t get? Skinny jeans. What’s a perfect date? Natty Boh and crabs. Deal breakers? No sense of humor. What’s your dream job? I’m doing it. You had me at . . . let’s go fishing in the dark.

Nina Lattimore
36, elementary school principal; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Bible. TV Show? Any reality show. Movie? Bridesmaids. Album? The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Food? Meatloaf from Mother’s Federal Hill Grille. Celebrity dream date? John Legend. Hidden talents? I speak Spanish fluently. What do you collect? Clothes. I love to shop! If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Michelle Obama, Whitney Houston, and Heidi Klum. Would you date someone of an opposing political party? Having opposing views is one thing, but we would need to respect each other’s point of view. Who’s your favorite athlete? Ray Rice. Hey, diddle diddle, Ray Rice up the middle! Who’s the funniest person alive? My father. We talk every day and it always ends with laughter. What’s your dream job? I’d love to report on education like Tim Tooten. You had me at . . . acceptance.

Tandon Doss
23, wide receiver, Baltimore Ravens; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Bible. TV Show? Entourage. Movie? Batman. Album? Trap or Die by Young Jeezy. Food? Spaghetti. Celebrity dream date? Eva Longoria. What do you collect? Kung Fu movies. Ip Man is my favorite one. Describe your closet: Shoes! I have more than 100 pairs of Vans alone. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I am the first person in my family to graduate from high school. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Muhammad Ali, Barry Sanders, and Jerry Rice. Who’s the funniest person alive? Mike Epps, hands down. What’s a trend that you just don’t get? Skinny jeans. What’s a perfect date? I’m a homebody, watching movies. Deal breakers? Stuck-up people and messed-up feet. What’s your dream job? I’m living my dream job right now.

Debbie McDonald
61, vice president, Schoenfeld Insurance Associates; widowed, one son, 24.

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Fifty Shades Darker by E. L. James. TV Show? Survivor. Movie? Remember the Titans. Album? Duets by Frank Sinatra. Food? Pasta. Celebrity dream date? George Clooney. What do you collect? Sports memorabilia. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? John F. Kennedy, Michael Jordan, and Mother Teresa. Would you date someone of an opposing political party? Yes, as long as he wasn’t running for office. What’s a perfect date? A quiet, romantic dinner and then dancing all night. Deal breakers? Self-absorbed men. What’s your dream job? Sports commentator. You win the Mega Millions. How do you spend it? Travel around the world by air, land, and sea, as well as help all the people I love and the less fortunate. You had me at . . .“The Way You Look Tonight.”

Greg Carpenter
43, program director, 101.9 Lite FM; divorced, three kids 9, 11, and 17.

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . movie? Back to the Future. Album? Live/1975-85 by Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band. Food? Spaghetti with meat sauce. Celebrity dream date? Reese Witherspoon. Any phobias? I can’t handle the thought of drowning. What do you collect? Old radios from the ’40s, ’50s, and ’60s. Describe your closet: As time goes on, my daughter is taking over. I’ll reach in for a sweater and all I can find are Taylor Swift shirts. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Brooks Robinson, Dick Clark, and Eddie Murphy. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . built on trust (in Buck). Who’s the funniest person alive? My daughter. What’s a perfect date? Just one-on-one time. What’s your dream job? I think I have it. You had me at . . . friendly eyes.

Rachel Mulherin
26, marketing coordinator, Stegman & Company, and owner, Rachel Mulherin Jewelry; divorced

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Twilight series. TV Show? The Golden Girls. Movie? Think Like a Man. Album? Unapologetic by Rihanna. Food? Anything from Talara. Celebrity dream date? Dwight Howard. Any phobias? Needles and snakes. Hidden talents? I can name all 50 states in alphabetical order. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I’m a self-taught jewelry designer. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Diane von Furstenberg, Kathy Griffin, and Nicole Stinson (my best friend). Who’s your favorite athlete? Right now, I’m loving Jacoby Jones and that touchdown dance. Who’s the funniest person alive? Kevin Hart. What’s a trend that you just don’t get? Pajamas in public. Deal breakers? Bad hygiene. You had me at . . . 6’5″!

Greg Tate
32, marketing manager, STX Lacrosse; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? I Can’t Accept Not Trying by Michael Jordan. TV Show? The Office. Movie? The Shawshank Redemption. Album? Bad by Michael Jackson. Food? Porterhouse steak. Celebrity dream date? Jessica Biel. Any phobias? Those genetically engineered sharks from that LL Cool J movie. What do you collect? Nikes. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Abraham Lincoln, Steve Jobs, and Marilyn Monroe. Who’s your favorite athlete? Bo Jackson. What’s a trend that you just don’t get? Ugh. Gangnam Style. What’s a perfect date? Duckpin bowling, then grabbing pizza and drinks at Johnny Rad’s. What’s your dream job? GM of the Ravens. You had me at . . . “Two Chaaaains!”

Morgan Adsit
29, sports anchor/reporter, WBFF; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? Living Wild by Bear Grylls. TV Show? Arrested Development. Movie? Tommy Boy. Album? Sigh No More by Mumford & Sons. Food? A lot of cheese. Celebrity dream date? Chris Hemsworth or Ryan Gosling. Any phobias? Ghosts that are children. Hidden talents? I’m a dog whisperer. What do you collect? LPs. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Mom, dad, and sister. I don’t get to see family as much as I would like. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . a career highlight to cover post-season baseball for the first time. Who’s the funniest person alive? Will Ferrell. He doesn’t have to say anything, and I’ll laugh. What’s a perfect date? Just be yourself. Too fancy terrifies me. You had me at . . . “Here’s the remote, you can watch what you want.”

Stefen Lovelace
27, senior account executive, IMRE; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien. TV Show? The Wire. Movie? The Sandlot. Album? Life After Death by The Notorious B.I.G. Food? Seafood. Celebrity dream date? Kate Upton. I’m a sucker for beautiful blonde models. Hidden talents? Singing karaoke. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I’m half-Jamaican. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Barack Obama, Martin Luther King Jr., and my father (passed away in 2011). My three heroes. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . I’m a Phillies fan, but I’ll always root hard for the O’s. Deal breakers? Treating others poorly. What’s your dream job? Owning an NBA team. You had me at . . . “Want to go see some live music?”

Justin Davis
28, managerial accountant, Social Security Administration; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . book? The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. TV Show? Seinfeld. Movie? Die Hard. Album? Eliminator by ZZ Top. Food? Pizza. Celebrity dream date? Jessica Biel. Hidden talents? Dancing to any Michael Jackson song. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? Abraham Lincoln, John Wayne, and my future self. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . My grandmother passed away in November and she was a diehard Orioles fan. She got the sendoff she deserved, so the O’s hold a special place in my heart. What’s your dream job? Being a starter or marshal on a golf course. You win the Mega Millions. How do you spend it? I don’t. That’s how you end up broke in five years! I invest. You had me at . . . the moment you don’t care that I see you in sweatpants.

Frannie Guiou
36, contemporary market rep, Anheuser-Busch; divorced

If you were stranded on a desert island and you could bring one . . . TV Show? Does WJZ news count? Movie? Elf. Album? Supply and Demand by Amos Lee. Food? Gummy bears. Celebrity dream date? Mark Cuban. He’s powerful and smart. Hidden talents? I am the claw-machine master. What don’t you leave the house without? A great attitude and a little makeup. If you could invite three people to dinner, whom would they be? Jim Palmer, David Letterman, and Vince Vaughn. Would you date someone of an opposing political party? I do demand a certain amount of intelligence in a man. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . With over 51 dates (home and away) in 2012, the Orioles and I are, and always have been, in a serious, committed relationship. Deal breakers? Poor grammar and being rude. What’s your dream job? Being a mom or a soap-opera actress. You had me at . . . Bud Light, of course!

Lisa Wiederlight
43, director of development, American Breast Cancer Foundation; divorced, one son, 12

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring one . . . book? One Small Starfish by Anne Addison. TV Show? Sex and the City. Movie? St. Elmo’s Fire. Album? Hard Times and Nursery Rhymes by Social Distortion. Food? Anything Mediterranean. Celebrity dream date? Alex Pettyfer. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I recently rediscovered my love for basketball and play whenever I can with my trainer-friend. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? My grandmother, Norma, to check in, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Bill Clinton. My relationship to the 2012 Orioles was . . . Like a good aunt, I was proud of the team, but could not claim ownership. I was born in New York. Who’s the funniest person alive? Seth Meyers. What’s a perfect date? A walk to Federal Hill to see the sparkling lights of the city. Deal breakers? Intolerance. You had me at . . . “How about those Ravens!”

Kate Beck
37, events manager, Office of the President, The Johns Hopkins University; divorced, one daughter, 3

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring one . . . book? The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. TV Show? Sex and the City. Movie? Love Actually. Album? It’s Too Late to Stop Now by Van Morrison. Food? Shrimp and grits. Celebrity dream date? Adam Sandler circa Spanglish or Ryan Gosling circa anytime. Any phobias? The DMV. Hidden talents? Assembling Ikea furniture with few leftover pieces. What don’t you leave the house without? My optimism. What’s something about you not everyone knows? I used to be a private chef. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? The Dalai Lama, Chelsea Handler, and Oprah. Who’s your favorite athlete? My brother, who played football at Tufts. What’s a perfect date? A spontaneous road trip. Deal breakers? Super egos. You had me at . . . solid, unassuming moves on the dance floor.

Guy Cragwell
39, fitness trainer and nutritionist; never been married

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring one . . . book? How to Survive on a Deserted Island. TV Show? Family Guy. Movie? Star Wars. Album? Seal (1991). Food? My mom’s flying fish, the national fish of Barbados. Celebrity dream date? Jessica Biel. Any phobias? Speaking in front of large groups. Hidden talents? I can juggle. What do you collect? Watches. If you could invite any three people to dinner, whom would they be? President Obama, Martin Luther King Jr., and God. Who’s your favorite athlete? Probably Cal Ripken Jr. So down-to-earth and a legend! What’s a trend you just don’t get? Pants hanging off the butt. What’s a perfect date? Dinner at Cinghiale with laughs and flirting. Also a woman bringing me flowers for a change. Deal breakers? Dishonesty. You had me at . . . “You are the man of my dreams.”

[Editor’s Note: Some, though not all, of our Top Singles have provided email addresses. Feel free to contact them there.]

Torrey Smith

23, wide receiver, Baltimore Ravens; never been married

Favorite Book: Green Eggs and Ham. Seriously. Favorite Film: Forrest Gump. Favorite TV show? Anything on Animal Planet. Favorite website? Twitter. Favorite music? Hip-hop and R&B. Celebrity dream date? There are a bunch. Celebrity look-a-like? Harold Perrineau (Michael Dawson on Lost). What did you think the earthquake was at first? I had no idea. I was on the grass, and it started shaking. I was scared and confused, so I just took off running. Favorite late-night TV host? Scott Van Pelt. Ideal last meal? A soul-food dinner with good rolls and sweet tea. Big sports fan? Yes, but I don’t really have favorite teams, just favorite players. Hidden talents? No, but I wish I could sing! I’m terrible, but that’s only for me to know in my car. Clowns: Scary or awesome? Weird. Definitely weird. Where do you take out-of-towners? Jimmy’s Famous Seafood. It’s my favorite restaurant. The secret to a great relationship is . . . loyalty.

Lara Henneman

26, program associate, Maryland CASH campaign; never been married

Email Lara

Favorite book: The Ground Beneath Her Feet. Favorite film: Hope Floats. Favorite TV show: Game of Thrones. Favorite website: The New York Times. Favorite music: Live music. Celebrity dream date? Clive Owen. Celebrity look-a-like? Christina Applegate. Turn-ons? Sincerity, joie de vivre, and advanced degrees. Turn-offs? Staring at your phone. Real books or tablets? Real books—lots of them. Best monster? Werewolf. I’ve always been a dog person. Ideal last meal? Chicken and waffles. With wine. Favorite candy bar? Snickers. Typical Saturday morning? Yoga, then a fluffy omelet. Big sports fan? Only during the World Cup. How do you keep it real on a first date? Be me: hyper, earnest, and occasionally awkward. Hidden talents? Writing poetry. Clowns: scary or awesome? Scary that anyone would answer “awesome.” The secret to a great relationship is . . . mutual respect.

Camille Moses-Allen

29, yoga instructor; never been married

Email Camille

Favorite Book: To Kill a Mockingbird. Favorite Film: Sliding Doors. Favorite TV show: True Blood. Favorite Music: Ray LaMontagne. Celebrity dream date? Brad Pitt since the sixth grade. Celebrity look-a-like? Halle Berry. Turn-ons? Great smile, cares about family, a little scruff. Turn-offs? Someone who isn’t into fitness. Real books or tablets? My mom is a librarian so I should say real books, but I love the tablets! Favorite late-night TV host? I think David Letterman gets more hilarious every year. Ideal last meal? Italian—all seven courses with a ton of wine. Typical Saturday morning? Hot yoga, a few errands. How do you keep it real on a first date? I am extremely outgoing, but I always try to ask my date about himself. Hidden talents? I can wiggle my ears. Clowns: scary or awesome? A little of both. The secret to a great relationship is . . . honesty is the best policy.

Michael Salconi

62, actor and hairstylist; divorced, no kids

Email Michael

Favorite Book: War and Peace. Favorite film: Fellini’s Amarcord. Favorite TV show: The Wire, natch. Favorite website: Factcheck.org. Favorite music: Lately, Brazilian. Celebrity dream date? Ann Curry. Celebrity look-a-like? My father was a celebrity to me. Turn-ons? Tango, theatre, Italy, beaches, and my dog, Puck. Turn-offs? Boredom. Favorite app? Italian-English dictionary. Real books or tablets? Tablets won me over. Best monster? Vampires are sexy. Ideal last meal? Aunt Antionette’s lasagna. Big sports fan? Yup, Ravens and Terps. How do you stay fit? Gym, biking. How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? There’s a certain relaxation when people are comfortable. Do you prefer being on stage or behind the scenes? On stage, front and center. The secret to a great relationship is . . . friendship combined with erotic love.

David Nicholson

26, defense contractor; never been married

Email David

Favorite Book: Anything by Paulo Coelho. Favorite Film: Inception. Favorite TV show: Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. Favorite website: Saveur. Favorite music: Mostly indie rock. Celebrity dream date? Rachel McAdams. Celebrity look-a-like? Adrian Grenier. Turn-ons? Adventurous, sense of humor. Turn-offs? Pretentious, bad hygiene. Any phobias? Losing one of my senses. Real books or tablets? Real books—for now. Ideal last meal? My first meal at Woodberry Kitchen: braised beef cheeks served with a shallot red-wine sauce and sweet potatoes. Big sports fan? Yeah, Ravens fan, followed by Terps basketball, Bulls, Capitals, and FC Barcelona. How do you stay fit? Soccer and triathlons. How do you keep it real on a first date? Take a deep breath, relax, and focus on the date; the future can wait. Hidden talents? Cutting a cantaloupe into a swan. Where do you take out-of-towners? Duckpin bowling. The secret to a great relationship is . . . trust.

Erin Merrick

34, teacher, Calvert School; divorced, one kid, 5

Email Erin

Favorite book: The Alchemist. Favorite film: Braveheart. Favorite music: A mix of rap, pop, and country. Celebrity dream date? Matthew McConaughey. Celebrity look-a-like? Reese Witherspoon. Turn-ons? Great smile! Turn-offs? Texting during a conversation. Any phobias? Sharks attacking me. Favorite app? Cookie Doodle on the iPad. Best monster: Werewolves (I grew up on Teen Wolf). Ideal last meal? Yorkshire Pudding with gravy, salt, and pepper (cooked by Jamie Oliver). Big sports fan? Love college lacrosse. How do you stay fit? I ran the Baltimore half in October! How do you keep it real on a first date? Try to find out things we have in common. Any hidden talents? Writing songs about grammar for my students. Clowns: scary or awesome? The only awesome clown was Homey from In Living Color. The secret to a great relationship is . . . chemistry.

Michael S. Robinson

44, director of arts, The Bryn Mawr School; never been married

Email Michael

Favorite book: Heaven’s Coast. Favorite film: Daughters of the Dust. Favorite TV show: Project Runway. Favorite website: Coolhunting.com. Favorite music: Ani Difranco. Celebrity dream date? Zachary Quinto. Celebrity look-a-like? My best friend said, “Paul Giamatti is you done wrong.” Turn-ons? Intellectual curiosity. Turn-offs? Excessive drinking. Best monster? Vampires in the Anne Rice genre. Ideal last meal? Indian food. I’ve been a vegetarian since 1988. How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? If he’s a good listener. Do you prefer being on stage or behind the scenes? I’m an introvert with extrovert styling. Clowns: scary or awesome? Some of my best friends used to work as clowns, seriously. The secret to a great relationship is . . . being able to share.

Angela Gillies

42, owner, Happiness Home Concierge Services; divorced, one kid, Noah, 12

Email Angela

Favorite book: Wicked. Favorite film: Gladiator. Favorite TV show: Dexter. Favorite website: Facebook. Favorite music: I’m a punk rocker at heart, but I listen to Lady Gaga in private. Celebrity dream date? Ryan Gosling. Celebrity look-a-like? I get told The Millionare Matchmaker. Turn-ons? Intelligence. Turn-offs? Only talking about yourself. Best monster? Vampires! Especially Eric Northman. Favorite TV host? Jon Stewart. Ideal last meal? My Nana’s famous secret-recipe chicken. Big sports fan? I love the Orioles, but they break my heart. How do you stay fit? I love my road bike and am looking to do a triathlon. How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? Eye contact. The secret to a great relationship is . . . lots of laughter!

Cheryl Conner

33, news reporter, WMAR; never been married

Email Cheryl

Favorite book: Losing the Moon. Favorite film: Dirty Dancing. Favorite music: Country. Celebrity dream date? Blake Shelton. Celebrity look-a-like? Charlize Theron. Turn-ons? Sense of humor, fit body, a gentleman. Turn-offs? Arrogance, bad breath. Any phobias? Stepping on a snake while running. Favorite app? Shazam. Real books or tablets? I like to flip pages. What did you think the earthquake was at first? Muscleheads at my gym dropping weights. Favorite candy bar? Kit Kat. Ever been on a blind date? Several. I’m that girl whom everyone wants to set up. How do you keep it real on a first date? I once rapped on the karaoke mic on a first date. Do you prefer being on stage or behind the scenes? On stage. I’m pretty sure I was born that way. The secret to a great relationship is . . . communication.

Jeff St. Pierre

30, news director, 93.1 WPOC; never been married

Email Jeff

Favorite book: A Long Way Down. Favorite film: High Fidelity. Favorite TV show: Scrubs. Favorite music: Jimmy Eat World. Celebrity dream date? Mila Kunis. Celebrity look-a-like? Clearly, it’s Ryan Reynolds. Turn-ons? Sarcasm, great smile. Turn-offs? Yankees fans and neck tattoos. Favorite app? Words with Friends. Best monster? Zombie. At least you can run away from one. Ideal last meal? In-N-Out Burger. Typical Saturday morning? Make breakfast and watch SportsCenter. How do you stay fit? Play in social leagues. How do you keep it real on a first date? Be as honest as humanly possible. Clowns: scary or awesome? The only clown I enjoy is Cam on Modern Family. The secret to a great relationship is . . . honesty.

Ryan Goff

27, VP, social media marketing director at MGH; never been married

Email Ryan

Favorite book: A Confederacy of Dunces. Favorite film: Home Alone. Favorite website: Facebook. Favorite music: The only boss I listen to—Bruce Springsteen. Celebrity dream date? Kelly Kapowski, The College Years. Celebrity look-a-like? Steve Carrell. Turn-ons? Sweet girls. Turn-offs? Rudeness. Favorite app? Spotify. Real books or tablets? Tablets. I have to save the few trees left after the Grand Prix. Ideal last meal? Pad Thai from Thai Arroy. Big sports fan? Nope. I grab a drink during the “sports” category in trivia. How do you stay fit? P90X. How do you keep it real on a first date? Remind myself that dating should be fun. Hidden talents? I do a mean Kermit the Frog impression. The secret to a great relationship is . . . acceptance.

Jordan Weimersheimer

30, branch manager, Equity Mortgage Lending; never been married

Email Jordan

Favorite book: Choke. Favorite film: Pulp Fiction. Favorite TV show: The Sopranos. Favorite music: Phish. Celebrity dream date? Angelina Jolie. Celebrity look-a-like? Alex Rodriguez. Turn-ons? Sense of humor, eyes. Turn-offs? Rudeness, chewing with mouth open. Any phobias? Bugs with lots of legs. Best monster? Vampires. Not the Twilight kind. What did you think the earthquake was at first? No thoughts, I was in Jamaica. What would your last meal be? The Kobe beef sliders from Salt. Typical Saturday morning? Golf, when weather permits. Big sports fan? Absolutely! I grew up in Jersey, which makes for some good arguments around here. How do you keep it real on a first date? Don’t be afraid to disagree on something. Clowns: scary or awesome? Awesome (especially if you watch Modern Family). The secret to a great relationship is . . . giving 100 percent no matter what.

Allie Wolf

48, co-owner, Amaryllis Handcrafted Jewelry; divorced, one kid, Liliana, 12

Email Allie

Favorite book: The Magician’s Assistant. Favorite film: Whale Rider. Favorite TV show: Modern Family. Favorite music: Stuck in the ’70s. Celebrity dream date? Jon Stewart. He’s so witty. Celebrity look-a-like? Used to be Heather Locklear. Turn-ons? A genuine sense of self. Turn-offs? Poor communication skills. What did you think the earthquake was at first? My niece gently rocking my beach chair. Ideal last meal? Frosted Mini-Wheats. Big sports fan? I follow The Ravens and enjoy most of the Olympic sports. How do you stay fit? Les Mills’s classes at Brick Bodies. How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? He follows up with a phone call. The secret to a great relationship is . . . deep passion.

Jeannine Lockwood

51, senior exhibit designer, Newseum; divorced, two kids, Beatrix, 18, and Elliot, 15

Favorite book: Middlesex. Favorite film: The Lives of Others. Favorite TV show: The Wire. Favorite website: The New York Times. Favorite music: I have rotating obsessions. Celebrity dream date? Vincent D’Onofrio. Celebrity look-a-like? Meryl Streep and Tatum O’Neal. Turn-ons? Brains, fitness, kindness. Turn-offs? Pompousness. Real books or tablets? Library books. Ideal last meal? Sloppy burger, fries, and cole slaw. Typical Saturday morning? Run, have coffee and pastries with my son. Big sports fan? I like international sports. How do you keep it real on a first date? I drop bombshells about me to weed out the wrong guys. The secret to a great relationship is . . . focusing on the positives.

Sameer Dixit

38, sports medicine physician, Johns Hopkins; never been married

Email Sameer

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: Die Hard. Favorite TV show: Curb Your Enthusiasm. Favorite website: Lifehacker.com. Favorite music: ’80s metal, ’90s rock, and old-school hip-hop. Celebrity dream date? Emmanuelle Chriqui. Turn-ons? Eyes, intelligence, sense of humor. Turn-offs? Condescension, malodor. Favorite app? The Weather Channel (especially since I moved back here from California!) What would your last meal be? My mom’s home-cooked Indian food. Typical Saturday morning? An intense workout followed by a huge brunch. Big sports fan? Yes, it’s part of my job! How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? Eye contact. Any hidden talents? Throwing a football well. The secret to a great relationship is . . . lots of love.

Jason Wasserman

35, attorney, Silverman, Thompson, Slutkin & White; never been married

Email Jason

Favorite book: The Firm. Favorite film: The Shawshank Redemption. Favorite TV show: The League. Celebrity dream date? I had a crush on Kathy Ireland. Celebrity look-a-like? Paul Rudd. Turn-ons? Assertive, professional, sarcastic. Turn-offs? Ignorance. Real books or tablets? Real books don’t break when I drop them. Best monster? Well, the worst is Jerry Sandusky. What would your last meal be? A dozen steamed crabs. Favorite candy bar? 100 Grand. Big sports fan? Go Ravens! How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? Fortunately, my profession has trained me to be an excellent B.S. detector. The secret to a great relationship is . . . communication.

Stacye Kellermann

26, registered nurse; never been married

Email Stacye

Favorite book: Boy: Tales of Childhood. Favorite film: Best In Show. Favorite TV show: Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. Favorite website: Yelp.com. Favorite music: Talking Heads, Motown. Celebrity dream date? Vince Vaughn. Celebrity look-a-like? Sandra Bullock and Anne Hathaway. Turn-ons? Height, foodies, sense of humor. Turn-offs? Only talking about yourself. Bad spellers. Real books or tablets? Real books are great gifts. Ideal last meal? Enough Chinese food from Joey Chiu’s to feed five people. Typical Saturday morning? Snuggling with my 5-year-old Boxer, Cleopatra. How do you stay fit? No food allowed in the operating room. How do you keep it real on a first date? Convincing myself the other person is just as nervous. The secret to a great relationship is . . . like my dad says, “If momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy!”

Alice Christman

35, operations manager, communications department, Chesapeake Bay Foundation; never been married

Email Alice

Favorite book: The Fountainhead. Favorite film: Back to the Beach. Favorite TV show: Modern Family. Favorite website: Etsy.com. Favorite music: Wilco, Ryan Adams, The Black Keys. Celebrity dream date? Ryan Reynolds. Celebrity look-a-like? Jennifer Garner and Juliette Lewis. Turn-ons? Adventure. Turn-offs? Overusing cell phone. Favorite app? Kayak. I can research my next adventure! Best monster? Werewolf. They are rugged and athletic. Ideal last meal? Joe Squared pizza, red wine, and a flourless chocolate cake. Typical Saturday morning? Gym, shower, fun. How do you stay fit? Pilates and yoga. How do you keep it real on a first date? By realizing it’s just a first date! Hidden talents? Teaching myself “Rapper’s Delight.” The secret to a great relationship is . . . patience.

Nick Rizzo

29, managing partner, Talara; never been married

Email Nick

Favorite book: Catcher in the Rye. Favorite film: The Departed. Favorite TV show: Mad Men. Favorite website: ESPN.com. Favorite music: The Black Keys and Widespread Panic. Celebrity dream date? Emmy Rossum. Celebrity look-a-like? Derek Jeter and Benjamim Bratt. Turn-ons? Confidence, independence, work ethic. Turn-offs? Neediness, selfishness. Any phobias? Failure. Favorite app? Angry Birds. Ideal last meal? Any food from my family’s restaurant. Favorite candy bar? Clark Bar. Big sports fan? Yes, I’m from western PA. . . How do you stay fit? Weights and yoga. How can you tell if your date is keeping it real? I usually read her mind (see next answer). Hidden talents? I can read minds. The secret to a great relationship is . . . understanding.

Danielle Gyarmathy

28, advertising sales, Comcast Spotlight; never been married

Email Danielle

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: A League of Their Own. Favorite TV show: Top Chef. Favorite website: People.com. Favorite music: Classic rock. Celebrity dream date? Tom Brady. Celebrity look-a-like? Jennifer Garner. Turn-ons? Blue eyes, humor, hint of shyness. Turn-offs? Smokers, Ed Hardy, picky eaters. Best monster? I was always Team Edward. Ideal last meal? The Santino from Di Pasquale’s. Typical Saturday morning? Coffee, yoga, and Food Network. Big sports fan? Yes! Former Giants fan now a Ravens fan (don’t tell my father). How do you keep it real on a first date? Keep it casual, get a couple of drinks somewhere with a good atmosphere. The secret to a great relationship is . . . adoration.

These days, some people’s idea of romance is turning off their BlackBerry at dinner. But we wanted to know what ever happened to the art of letter writing, hand holding, and door opening. So we explored this idea by photographing 20 of Baltimore’s hottest singles in the most beautiful spaces in the city. (We think the glamorous locales suit them.) We also asked our singles how they’ve kept romance alive, and polled local celebrities about their favorite love stories. Finally, we dug up some old school romantic traditions we would like to see make a comeback. Ultimately, we don’t think romance is dead, just a bit under the weather.

Tom Chan

38, race car team manager, TPC Racing; single, no kids

Favorite book: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. Favorite film: Die Hard. Favorite TV show: How I Met Your Mother. Favorite website: ebay.com. Favorite music: Everything from rock to R&B. Celebrity dream date: Jennifer Love Hewitt. Celebrity look-alike: Christian Bale.Turn-ons: Warm smile, sparkling eyes, high heels.Turn-offs: Arrogance, rudeness. Hidden talents:Ballroom dancing. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Slow dancing on the Stratosphere overlooking the city lights. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: My ex waited for me outside to give me a flower after I had taken a test.Favorite love story? Jerry Maguire. What tradition should be more common? Holding hands. How did you spend the blizzard? Hiked to a pub for fish, chips, and beer. Romance is…what we make of it.

Jason Bosley-Smith

33, personal trainer, MAC; single, no kids

Favorite book: How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy.Favorite film: Step Brothers, To Kill a Mockingbird. Favorite TV show: Seinfeld.Favorite website: Mine, thefitrx.com. Favorite music: Everything from Al Green to The Gypsy Kings. Celebrity dream date: Eva Mendes.Celebrity look-alike: Noah Wyle. Turn-ons:Active, witty, generous, adventurous. Turn-offs:Negative, confrontational. Big sports fan? I like playing basketball and rooting for the O’s and Ravens. How do you stay fit? Free weights, cables, jump rope, boxing. Hidden talents? Drawing.Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: One year, I made a special church offering of poinsettias in the name of my girlfriend’s grandmother who had passed away. What tradition should be more common? Handwritten notes. How did you spend the blizzard? Having an ugly sweater party.Romance is…being there for someone no matter what.

Paul Moravec

31, owner, Allied Remodeling; single, no kids

Favorite book: Private Parts. Favorite film:Swingers. Favorite TV show: Two and a Half Men.Favorite website: espn.com. Favorite music: Anything ’80s. Celebrity dream date:Alessandra Ambrosio. Celebrity look-alike: David Villa. Turn-ons: Sense of humor.Turn-offs: Snobbiness. Big sports fan? O’s, Stroh’s, and Natty Boh’s. Hidden talents?I may or may not ice skate very well. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done:Blindfolded my girlfriend and went to Prague. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Surprise birthday party in Montreal. Favorite love story? Sixteen Candles. What tradition should be more common? Picnics. How did you spend the blizzard? I intentionally stranded myself at my friend’s house in Canton so I could have fun downtown. Favorite app? TripIt. I love to travel. Romance is…a bottle of white, a bottle of red, perhaps a bottle of rosé instead?

Suzy Prucka

30, criminal appellate attorney; divorced, no kids

Favorite book: When Character Was King. Favorite film: The Usual Suspects.Favorite website: drudgereport.com. Favorite music: Texas country. Celebrity dream date: Landon Donovan. Celebrity look-alike: Stephanie March. Turn-ons:Southern manners. Turn-offs: Vegetarianism, ego. Big sports fan? Yes, bleed Cowboys blue with a dash of Ravens purple. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done:Went on a surprise sunset picnic. Most romantic thing someone has done for you:In Costa Rica, on the divide, he told he me loved me on the east coast and then took a step and told me he loved me on the west coast. Favorite love story? Love Actually.What tradition should be more common? Love letters. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna:Madge. She is the original. Romance is…patience.

Jen Royle

36, sports reporter, MASN and 105.7 The Fan; single, no kids

Favorite book: The James Frey collection. Favorite film: Fargo, Bull Durham, and Jaws. Favorite TV show: Survivor. Favorite website: zappos.com. Favorite music:Counting Crows. Celebrity dream date: Ben Affleck. Celebrity look-alike: Sarah Jessica Parker. Turn-ons: Funny. Period. Turn-offs: People who show off. Big sports fan? HUGE. Sports reporters are all fans—minus the crazy. How do you stay fit? Run and try to avoid eating entire loaves of bread. How did you meet your last boyfriend? Backstage at a concert. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Rubbed somebody’s head until they fell asleep on my stomach. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Kissed me on my forehead. It’s that simple. Favorite app? Tip Calculator, because a group dinner can be really confusing. Romance is…hanging out with your best friend all day that you want to kiss all night.

Ben Jordan

29, vice president of business development, Wells Fargo; single, no kids

Favorite book: Chronicles: Volume One by Bob Dylan. Favorite film: Scent of a Woman. Favorite TV show: Californication. Favorite website: livenation.com.Favorite music: Anything but country. Celebrity dream date: Jessica Biel. Celebrity look-alike: I’ve been told George Clooney. Turn-ons: Active, independent, and motivated. Hidden talents? I can touch my nose with my tongue. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Planned a surprise weekend in NYC. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Surprised me with a trip to see Bob Dylan and Paul Simon. Favorite love story? Two Ninas. What tradition should be more common?Writing letters. How did you spend the blizzard? Snowboarding at Wisp. Favorite app? Words With Friends. Romance is…necessary.

Tom Wagner

55, medical sales, Boehringer Ingelheim; widowed, two kids, Maggie, 17, Lindsey, 14

Favorite book: Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff. Favorite film: One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. Favorite TV show: CSI. Favorite music: Rock ’n’ roll. Celebrity dream date: Jennifer Aniston. Turn-ons: Humor. Turn-offs: Smoking. How do you stay fit? Work out at the YMCA. Hidden talents? Cooking. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Bought 100 roses. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Taken me out for fine dining. Favorite love story? Terms of Endearment. What tradition do you wish was more common? Saying “I love you.” How did you spend the blizzard? With my two girls. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Madonna. Romance is…fun.

Phyllis Collins

29, associate project manager, Laureate; single, no kids

Favorite book: Dear John. Favorite film:
The Shawshank Redemption. Favorite TV show: Criminal Minds. Favorite website:Groupon! Favorite music: I listen to (almost) anything. Celebrity dream date: Eric Dane. Celebrity look-alike: I’ve been told Tyra Banks, Halle Berry, and Vanessa Williams. Turn-ons: Sense of humor, physical fitness, silliness. Turn-offs: Cockiness.How do you stay fit? I love spin class! Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: I enjoy preparing a nice meal. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: On my birthday, my boyfriend had flowers set up all over his apartment and Sade playing softly in the background. Favorite love story? The Notebook, hands down. Is chivalry dead? I think it’s making a comeback. Favorite app? Pandora. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Madonna is an original. Romance is…a necessity.

Gina Finelli

41, assistant dean, undergraduate studies, University of Baltimore; single, no kids

Favorite film: Something the Lord Made. Favorite TV show: Seinfeld. Celebrity look-alike: When I was studying abroad in Europe in 1989, people thought Gloria Estefan. Turn-ons: Honesty, people who know who they are. Turn-offs: Lying, manipulating, and sugar-coating. Big sports fan? I grew up playing every sport I could in a time when girls were often not allowed to play. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: One morning, I was stirring my tea and the bag broke. He told me to finish getting ready for work and proceeded to sift the individual tea leaves out so I could have my tea for work. Favorite love story? My parents. Is chivalry dead? No, I just think it should be practiced by all. Romance is…what happens when you don’t take someone for granted.

Meg Link

31, graphic designer; single, no kids

Favorite book: Gone with the Wind. Favorite film: The Royal Tenenbaums. Favorite website: My blog, thepreppylife.com. Favorite music: Classic rock. Celebrity dream date: John Cusack. Turn-ons: Good cooking skills and a sense of humor. Turn-offs:Smoking, guys who don’t like dogs. Phobias? Going to the doctor. How do you stay fit?I’m allegedly training for a marathon. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done:Decorated my boyfriend’s house for Christmas when he was away. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Adopted a dog for me. What’s your Favorite love story? Desk Set. Spencer Tracy falls for Katharine Hepburn. What tradition should be more common? Getting flowers at work. Is chivalry dead? Almost. How did you spend the blizzard? Sitting on the beach in Cancun! Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Gaga all the way. Romance is…what everyone is looking for.

Moneé Cottman

32, travel media manager, Visit Baltimore; single, no kids

Favorite book: The Coldest Winter Ever. Favorite film: Dumb & Dumber, Love Actually. Favorite TV show: The Golden Girls. Favorite website: etsy.com. Favorite music: Everything but go-go, Taylor Swift, and Justin Bieber. Celebrity dream date:Allen Iverson. Turn-ons: Confidence, handsome smile, great cook. Turn-offs:Crackberry addicts, living in your mama’s basement. How do you stay fit? I eat what I want and work out. Hidden talents? I’m learning sign language. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Surprised him with his favorite meal for no reason. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: An ex-boyfriend went above and beyond to take care of me while I was sick. Is chivalry dead? Man, I hope not! I hear he opens doors.How did you spend the blizzard? Watched Prison Break and reorganized my closets.Favorite app? Groupon. Romance is…a luxury.

Meredith Hollandsworth

24, assistant planner, Joseph A. Bank Clothiers; single, no kids

Favorite book: Into biographies and memoirs. Favorite film: Clueless. Favorite TV show: The Price Is Right. Favorite website: giltgroupe.com. Favorite music: Eclectic, but no country. Celebrity dream date: Will Ferrell. Celebrity look-alike: Ivanka Trump. Turn-ons: Ambition, humor, adventure. Turn-offs: Laziness, insecurity, jean shorts. Big sports fan? Love the athletes. How do you stay fit? Yoga, kickboxing, and spin class. Hidden talents? Fishing. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Took a half-day from work to hop a train to Connecticut to surprise my college boyfriend. Most romantic thing someone has done for you? Trying to keep a long-distance relationship going. Favorite love story? My grandparents. Is chivalry dead? Is the sky blue?Favorite app? Daily Horoscope. Romance is…expression of the heart through action.

Lyn Harper

51, not-for-profit consultant, Yaffe & Company; divorced, two kids, George, 20, Clarke, 18

Favorite book: Mistress of Riversdale. Favorite TV show: Jeopardy! and Parenthood.Favorite website: southwest.com. Favorite music: Live, acoustic, and I will sing.Celebrity dream date: Johnny Depp, but if he is busy, George Clooney. Celebrity look-alike: Naomi Watts unplugged. Turn-ons: Wit, humor, athleticism, kindness.Turn-offs: Ego not commensurate with accomplishments. Big sports fan? Yes! I play, coach, ref, cheer, and watch. How do you stay fit? Swim, tennis, run, scuba. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Surprised my beau for his birthday at the Orlando Airport Hyatt. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Taking care of me post-op. Favorite love story? When Harry Met Sally… What tradition should be more common? Holding hands. Favorite app? RedLaser. Romance is…a gift.

Roy Wilkinson IV

29, equity trade support associate, Morgan Stanley; single, no kids

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: Amadeus. Favorite TV show:Project Runway. Favorite website: youtube.com. Favorite music: Pop and dance.Celebrity dream date: Ryan Reynolds. Celebrity look-alike: Ricky Martin. Turn-ons:Cleanliness, in-telligence, success, and a twisted sense of humor. Turn-offs: Arrogance, lack of compassion, laziness. Big sports fan? Penn State sports. How do you stay fit?No fast food, gym, and eight hours of sleep. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Someone created a birthday scavenger hunt for me. Favorite love story?Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. What tradition should be more common?Sometimes I love turning off the TV and playing a board game with someone. Is chivalry dead? If you think so, you’re not paying attention. Favorite app? Foursquare.Romance is…different from love.

Michael Alderman

48, IT entrepreneur/real estate developer; divorced, two kids, Callie, 17, and Michael Jr., 15

Favorite book: The Pillars of the Earth. Favorite film: Uncle Buck. Favorite TV show: Two and a Half Men. Favorite website: nfl.com. Favorite music: Reggae.Celebrity dream date: Jennifer Aniston. Celebrity look-alike: Sean Astin. Turn-ons:Honesty, willpower, and a little black dress. Big sports fan? I’m a huge fan of my children’s sporting events. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: I took an eight-hour train ride from Switzerland to Italy to give flowers to a girl I had met once. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: A girl went to church on Thanksgiving to give thanks for meeting me. Favorite love story? When Harry Met Sally… Is chivalry dead? Absolutely not! How did you spend the blizzard? Plowing out friends and family. Favorite app? Urbanspoon. Romance is…a lifestyle.

Courtney Barry

22, event planner, The Oregon Grille; single, no kids

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: Cruel Intentions. Favorite TV show:Any CSI. Favorite website: sugarinc.com. Celebrity dream date: Wes Welker.Celebrity look-alike: Someone told me I look like Anna Rawson. Turn-ons:Spontaneity, honesty, adventure. Turn-offs: Pessimism, cockiness. How do you stay fit? Spinning class. Hidden talents? I went to culinary school, so I love to cook. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: In high school, I wrote my boyfriend a love letter once a month. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Someone bought me a rose one night and said I was gorgeous. Favorite love story? Never Been Kissed.What tradition do you wish was more common? Talking on the phone. Favorite app? Shazam. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Lady Gaga. She’s beautifully unique. Romance is…pure excitement.

Darryl Tarver

24, transportation engineer, Brudis & Associates; single, no kids

Favorite book: Things Fall Apart. Favorite film: Training Day. Favorite TV show: The Wire. Favorite website: wikipedia.com, espn.com. Favorite music: Outkast, Kanye West, Michael Jackson, Red Hot Chili Peppers. Celebrity dream date: Salma Hayek.Celebrity look-alike: I get Pharrell a lot. Turn-ons: Frequent smile and eye contact, intelligent, fashionable. Turn-offs: Drama queens, snobs, airheads. How do you stay fit? Running and pick-up baseball. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Write love letters. Most romantic thing someone has done for you? Breakfast in bed. Favorite love story? (500) Days of Summer. What tradition should be more common? I wish women didn’t take chivalry the wrong way sometimes. How did you spend the blizzard? Shoveling and quality time with my roommates. Favorite app? Foursquare.Romance…is something everyone should experience at least once.

Wyatt Everhart

36, Broadcast meteorologist, ABC 2 News; single, no kids

Favorite book: It’s Not About the Bike. Favorite film: Forgetting Sarah Marshall.Favorite website: grooveshark.com. Celebrity dream date: Charlize Theron.Celebrity look-alike: Val Kilmer. Turn-ons: Fun, fitness, laughs, travel. Turn-offs:Pessimism, cynicism, elitism. Big sports fan? Love college football. How do you stay fit? Depends on the season. Swim, surf in the summer. Snowboard in the winter.Hidden talents? I’m told I take really nice photos. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Weekend getaway to the beach. Favorite love story? Cast Away. What tradition should be more common? Massage. Is chivalry dead? No, but it is dying. There are still a few areas where I think it’s holding tough. How did you spend the blizzard? Working my butt off. Romance is…timeless.

Kathleen Pelletier

40, special education chair, Baltimore County Public Schools; divorced, one kid, Cora, 8

Favorite book: Eat, Pray, Love. Favorite film: Moonstruck. Favorite TV show:Modern Family. Favorite website: jcrew.com. Favorite music: Pretty much anything on WTMD. Celebrity dream date: Robert Downey Jr. Celebrity look-alike: Older Katie Holmes and Kristin Davis. Turn-ons: Humor, nice smile, good shoes. Turn-offs:Men with crunchy hair, arrogance. Big sports fan? I love football. I was married to a football coach for many years. Hidden talents? I play the bassoon. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: After years of being afraid to fly, I flew to Boston to see an ex-flame. What tradition should be more common? Real dates! Is chivalry dead? It’s endangered. How did you spend the blizzard? Snowed in with my daughter and Labrador. Favorite app? GPS. Romance is…taking the time to act on your feelings.

John Bucher

34, equity investment liaison manager, T. Rowe Price; single, no kids

Favorite book: Bringing Down the House by Ben Mezrich. Favorite film: A Few Good Men. Favorite TV show: Glee and Boardwalk Empire. Favorite website:pandora.com. Favorite music: Country, pop, and ’80s. Celebrity dream date: Scarlett Johansson. Celebrity look-alike: Paul Rudd maybe? Turn-ons: Honesty and sings in the car. Turn-offs: Pessimism. Big sports fan? Absolutely, any local team. Hidden talents? I’m pretty handy with a hammer and a nail. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: A surprise homemade Valentine’s Day dinner. Favorite love story?Romeo and Juliet. What tradition should be more common? Courting. Is chivalry dead? Not in my mind. Favorite app? Does texting count? Lady Gaga vs. Madonna:A dress made entirely of meat is pretty hard to top! Romance is…alive and well.

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Setting: Hotel Monaco Baltimore
Why romantic: Maintaining the integrity of the B&O headquarters building, Hotel Monaco has the original marble and Tiffany stained glass in its lobby.
2 N. Charles Street, 443-692-6170, monaco-baltimore.com

Setting: The Walters Art Museum
Why romantic: The diverse collection of world art on display at the Walters includes romantic Greek sculptures and beautiful Egyptian jewelry.
600 N. Charles Street, 410-547-9000, thewalters.org

Setting: Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens
Why romantic: The conservatory allows us an escape, with over an acre of flora inside its glass walls.
3100 Swan Drive, 410-396-0008,baltimoreconservatory.org, Wed.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Setting: Penn Station
Why romantic: There aren’t too many things more romantic than taking a bona fide train across the country. The neoclassical architecture and grand columns just add to the allure.
1515 N. Charles Street, 410-539-5000

Photography By David Colwell. Photography assistance by Olivia Mathis, Lauren Myers, and Andrew Shoenfeld.

These days, some people’s idea of romance is turning off their
BlackBerry at dinner. But we wanted to know what ever happened to the
art of letter writing, hand holding, and door opening. So we explored
this idea by photographing 20 of Baltimore’s hottest singles in the most
beautiful spaces in the city. (We think the glamorous locales suit
them.) We also asked our singles how they’ve kept romance alive, and
polled local celebrities about their favorite love stories. Finally, we
dug up some old school romantic traditions we would like to see make a
comeback. Ultimately, we don’t think romance is dead, just a bit under
the weather.

Tom Chan

38, race car team manager, TPC Racing; single, no kids

Favorite book: Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. Favorite film: Die Hard. Favorite TV show: How I Met Your Mother. Favorite website: ebay.com. Favorite music: Everything from rock to R&B. Celebrity dream date: Jennifer Love Hewitt. Celebrity look-alike: Christian Bale. Turn-ons: Warm smile, sparkling eyes, high heels. Turn-offs: Arrogance, rudeness. Hidden talents: Ballroom dancing. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Slow dancing on the Stratosphere overlooking the city lights. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: My ex waited for me outside to give me a flower after I had taken a test. Favorite love story? Jerry Maguire. What tradition should be more common? Holding hands. How did you spend the blizzard? Hiked to a pub for fish, chips, and beer. Romance is…what we make of it.

Jason Bosley-Smith

33, personal trainer, MAC; single, no kids

Favorite book: How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy. Favorite film: Step Brothers, To Kill a Mockingbird. Favorite TV show: Seinfeld. Favorite website: Mine, thefitrx.com. Favorite music: Everything from Al Green to The Gypsy Kings. Celebrity dream date: Eva Mendes. Celebrity look-alike: Noah Wyle. Turn-ons: Active, witty, generous, adventurous. Turn-offs: Negative, confrontational. Big sports fan? I like playing basketball and rooting for the O’s and Ravens. How do you stay fit? Free weights, cables, jump rope, boxing. Hidden talents? Drawing. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: One year, I made a special church offering of poinsettias in the name of my girlfriend’s grandmother who had passed away. What tradition should be more common? Handwritten notes. How did you spend the blizzard? Having an ugly sweater party. Romance is…being there for someone no matter what.

Paul Moravec

31, owner, Allied Remodeling; single, no kids

Favorite book: Private Parts. Favorite film: Swingers. Favorite TV show: Two and a Half Men. Favorite website: espn.com. Favorite music: Anything ’80s. Celebrity dream date: Alessandra Ambrosio. Celebrity look-alike: David Villa. Turn-ons: Sense of humor. Turn-offs: Snobbiness. Big sports fan? O’s, Stroh’s, and Natty Boh’s. Hidden talents? I may or may not ice skate very well. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Blindfolded my girlfriend and went to Prague. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Surprise birthday party in Montreal. Favorite love story? Sixteen Candles. What tradition should be more common? Picnics. How did you spend the blizzard? I intentionally stranded myself at my friend’s house in Canton so I could have fun downtown. Favorite app? TripIt. I love to travel. Romance is…a bottle of white, a bottle of red, perhaps a bottle of rosé instead?

Suzy Prucka

30, criminal appellate attorney; divorced, no kids

Favorite book: When Character Was King. Favorite film: The Usual Suspects. Favorite website: drudgereport.com. Favorite music: Texas country. Celebrity dream date: Landon Donovan. Celebrity look-alike: Stephanie March. Turn-ons: Southern manners. Turn-offs: Vegetarianism, ego. Big sports fan? Yes, bleed Cowboys blue with a dash of Ravens purple. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Went on a surprise sunset picnic. Most romantic thing someone has done for you:
In Costa Rica, on the divide, he told he me loved me on the east coast
and then took a step and told me he loved me on the west coast. Favorite love story? Love Actually. What tradition should be more common? Love letters. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Madge. She is the original. Romance is…patience.

Jen Royle

36, sports reporter, MASN and 105.7 The Fan; single, no kids

Favorite book: The James Frey collection. Favorite film: Fargo, Bull Durham, and Jaws. Favorite TV show: Survivor. Favorite website: zappos.com. Favorite music: Counting Crows. Celebrity dream date: Ben Affleck. Celebrity look-alike: Sarah Jessica Parker. Turn-ons: Funny. Period. Turn-offs: People who show off. Big sports fan? HUGE. Sports reporters are all fans—minus the crazy. How do you stay fit? Run and try to avoid eating entire loaves of bread. How did you meet your last boyfriend? Backstage at a concert. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Rubbed somebody’s head until they fell asleep on my stomach. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Kissed me on my forehead. It’s that simple. Favorite app? Tip Calculator, because a group dinner can be really confusing. Romance is…hanging out with your best friend all day that you want to kiss all night.

Ben Jordan

29, vice president of business development, Wells Fargo; single, no kids

Favorite book: Chronicles: Volume One by Bob Dylan. Favorite film: Scent of a Woman. Favorite TV show: Californication. Favorite website: livenation.com. Favorite music: Anything but country. Celebrity dream date: Jessica Biel. Celebrity look-alike: I’ve been told George Clooney. Turn-ons: Active, independent, and motivated. Hidden talents? I can touch my nose with my tongue. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Planned a surprise weekend in NYC. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Surprised me with a trip to see Bob Dylan and Paul Simon. Favorite love story? Two Ninas. What tradition should be more common? Writing letters. How did you spend the blizzard? Snowboarding at Wisp. Favorite app? Words With Friends. Romance is…necessary.

Tom Wagner

55, medical sales, Boehringer Ingelheim; widowed, two kids, Maggie, 17, Lindsey, 14

Favorite book: Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff. Favorite film: One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. Favorite TV show: CSI. Favorite music: Rock ’n’ roll. Celebrity dream date: Jennifer Aniston. Turn-ons: Humor. Turn-offs: Smoking. How do you stay fit? Work out at the YMCA. Hidden talents? Cooking. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Bought 100 roses. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Taken me out for fine dining. Favorite love story? Terms of Endearment. What tradition do you wish was more common? Saying “I love you.” How did you spend the blizzard? With my two girls. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Madonna. Romance is…fun.

Phyllis Collins

29, associate project manager, Laureate; single, no kids

Favorite book: Dear John. Favorite film:
The Shawshank Redemption. Favorite TV show: Criminal Minds. Favorite website: Groupon! Favorite music: I listen to (almost) anything. Celebrity dream date: Eric Dane. Celebrity look-alike: I’ve been told Tyra Banks, Halle Berry, and Vanessa Williams. Turn-ons: Sense of humor, physical fitness, silliness. Turn-offs: Cockiness. How do you stay fit? I love spin class! Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: I enjoy preparing a nice meal. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: On my birthday, my boyfriend had flowers set up all over his apartment and Sade playing softly in the background. Favorite love story? The Notebook, hands down. Is chivalry dead? I think it’s making a comeback. Favorite app? Pandora. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Madonna is an original. Romance is…a necessity.

Gina Finelli

41, assistant dean, undergraduate studies, University of Baltimore; single, no kids

Favorite film: Something the Lord Made. Favorite TV show: Seinfeld. Celebrity look-alike: When I was studying abroad in Europe in 1989, people thought Gloria Estefan. Turn-ons: Honesty, people who know who they are. Turn-offs: Lying, manipulating, and sugar-coating. Big sports fan? I grew up playing every sport I could in a time when girls were often not allowed to play. Most romantic thing someone has done for you:
One morning, I was stirring my tea and the bag broke. He told me to
finish getting ready for work and proceeded to sift the individual tea
leaves out so I could have my tea for work. Favorite love story? My parents. Is chivalry dead? No, I just think it should be practiced by all. Romance is…what happens when you don’t take someone for granted.

Meg Link

31, graphic designer; single, no kids

Favorite book: Gone with the Wind. Favorite film: The Royal Tenenbaums. Favorite website: My blog, thepreppylife.com. Favorite music: Classic rock. Celebrity dream date: John Cusack. Turn-ons: Good cooking skills and a sense of humor. Turn-offs: Smoking, guys who don’t like dogs. Phobias? Going to the doctor. How do you stay fit? I’m allegedly training for a marathon. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Decorated my boyfriend’s house for Christmas when he was away. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Adopted a dog for me. What’s your Favorite love story? Desk Set. Spencer Tracy falls for Katharine Hepburn. What tradition should be more common? Getting flowers at work. Is chivalry dead? Almost. How did you spend the blizzard? Sitting on the beach in Cancun! Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Gaga all the way. Romance is…what everyone is looking for.

Moneé Cottman

32, travel media manager, Visit Baltimore; single, no kids

Favorite book: The Coldest Winter Ever. Favorite film: Dumb & Dumber, Love Actually. Favorite TV show: The Golden Girls. Favorite website: etsy.com. Favorite music: Everything but go-go, Taylor Swift, and Justin Bieber. Celebrity dream date: Allen Iverson. Turn-ons: Confidence, handsome smile, great cook. Turn-offs: Crackberry addicts, living in your mama’s basement. How do you stay fit? I eat what I want and work out. Hidden talents? I’m learning sign language. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Surprised him with his favorite meal for no reason. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: An ex-boyfriend went above and beyond to take care of me while I was sick. Is chivalry dead? Man, I hope not! I hear he opens doors. How did you spend the blizzard? Watched Prison Break and reorganized my closets. Favorite app? Groupon. Romance is…a luxury.

Meredith Hollandsworth

24, assistant planner, Joseph A. Bank Clothiers; single, no kids

Favorite book: Into biographies and memoirs. Favorite film: Clueless. Favorite TV show: The Price Is Right. Favorite website: giltgroupe.com. Favorite music: Eclectic, but no country. Celebrity dream date: Will Ferrell. Celebrity look-alike: Ivanka Trump. Turn-ons: Ambition, humor, adventure. Turn-offs: Laziness, insecurity, jean shorts. Big sports fan? Love the athletes. How do you stay fit? Yoga, kickboxing, and spin class. Hidden talents? Fishing. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done?
Took a half-day from work to hop a train to Connecticut to surprise my
college boyfriend. Most romantic thing someone has done for you? Trying
to keep a long-distance relationship going. Favorite love story? My grandparents. Is chivalry dead? Is the sky blue? Favorite app? Daily Horoscope. Romance is…expression of the heart through action.

Lyn Harper

51, not-for-profit consultant, Yaffe & Company; divorced, two kids, George, 20, Clarke, 18

Favorite book: Mistress of Riversdale. Favorite TV show: Jeopardy! and Parenthood. Favorite website: southwest.com. Favorite music: Live, acoustic, and I will sing. Celebrity dream date: Johnny Depp, but if he is busy, George Clooney. Celebrity look-alike: Naomi Watts unplugged. Turn-ons: Wit, humor, athleticism, kindness. Turn-offs: Ego not commensurate with accomplishments. Big sports fan? Yes! I play, coach, ref, cheer, and watch. How do you stay fit? Swim, tennis, run, scuba. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Surprised my beau for his birthday at the Orlando Airport Hyatt. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Taking care of me post-op. Favorite love story? When Harry Met Sally… What tradition should be more common? Holding hands. Favorite app? RedLaser. Romance is…a gift.

Roy Wilkinson IV

29, equity trade support associate, Morgan Stanley; single, no kids

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: Amadeus. Favorite TV show: Project Runway. Favorite website: youtube.com. Favorite music: Pop and dance. Celebrity dream date: Ryan Reynolds. Celebrity look-alike: Ricky Martin. Turn-ons: Cleanliness, in-telligence, success, and a twisted sense of humor. Turn-offs: Arrogance, lack of compassion, laziness. Big sports fan? Penn State sports. How do you stay fit? No fast food, gym, and eight hours of sleep. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Someone created a birthday scavenger hunt for me. Favorite love story? Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. What tradition should be more common? Sometimes I love turning off the TV and playing a board game with someone. Is chivalry dead? If you think so, you’re not paying attention. Favorite app? Foursquare. Romance is…different from love.

Michael Alderman

48, IT entrepreneur/real estate developer; divorced, two kids, Callie, 17, and Michael Jr., 15

Favorite book: The Pillars of the Earth. Favorite film: Uncle Buck. Favorite TV show: Two and a Half Men. Favorite website: nfl.com. Favorite music: Reggae. Celebrity dream date: Jennifer Aniston. Celebrity look-alike: Sean Astin. Turn-ons: Honesty, willpower, and a little black dress. Big sports fan? I’m a huge fan of my children’s sporting events. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: I took an eight-hour train ride from Switzerland to Italy to give flowers to a girl I had met once. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: A girl went to church on Thanksgiving to give thanks for meeting me. Favorite love story? When Harry Met Sally… Is chivalry dead? Absolutely not! How did you spend the blizzard? Plowing out friends and family. Favorite app? Urbanspoon. Romance is…a lifestyle.

Courtney Barry

22, event planner, The Oregon Grille; single, no kids

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: Cruel Intentions. Favorite TV show: Any CSI. Favorite website: sugarinc.com. Celebrity dream date: Wes Welker. Celebrity look-alike: Someone told me I look like Anna Rawson. Turn-ons: Spontaneity, honesty, adventure. Turn-offs: Pessimism, cockiness. How do you stay fit? Spinning class. Hidden talents? I went to culinary school, so I love to cook. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: In high school, I wrote my boyfriend a love letter once a month. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: Someone bought me a rose one night and said I was gorgeous. Favorite love story? Never Been Kissed. What tradition do you wish was more common? Talking on the phone. Favorite app? Shazam. Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: Lady Gaga. She’s beautifully unique. Romance is…pure excitement.

Darryl Tarver

24, transportation engineer, Brudis & Associates; single, no kids

Favorite book: Things Fall Apart. Favorite film: Training Day. Favorite TV show: The Wire. Favorite website: wikipedia.com, espn.com. Favorite music: Outkast, Kanye West, Michael Jackson, Red Hot Chili Peppers. Celebrity dream date: Salma Hayek. Celebrity look-alike: I get Pharrell a lot. Turn-ons: Frequent smile and eye contact, intelligent, fashionable. Turn-offs: Drama queens, snobs, airheads. How do you stay fit? Running and pick-up baseball. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done? Write love letters. Most romantic thing someone has done for you? Breakfast in bed. Favorite love story? (500) Days of Summer. What tradition should be more common? I wish women didn’t take chivalry the wrong way sometimes. How did you spend the blizzard? Shoveling and quality time with my roommates. Favorite app? Foursquare. Romance…is something everyone should experience at least once.

Wyatt Everhart

36, Broadcast meteorologist, ABC 2 News; single, no kids

Favorite book: It’s Not About the Bike. Favorite film: Forgetting Sarah Marshall. Favorite website: grooveshark.com. Celebrity dream date: Charlize Theron. Celebrity look-alike: Val Kilmer. Turn-ons: Fun, fitness, laughs, travel. Turn-offs: Pessimism, cynicism, elitism. Big sports fan? Love college football. How do you stay fit? Depends on the season. Swim, surf in the summer. Snowboard in the winter. Hidden talents? I’m told I take really nice photos. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: Weekend getaway to the beach. Favorite love story? Cast Away. What tradition should be more common? Massage. Is chivalry dead? No, but it is dying. There are still a few areas where I think it’s holding tough. How did you spend the blizzard? Working my butt off. Romance is…timeless.

Kathleen Pelletier

40, special education chair, Baltimore County Public Schools; divorced, one kid, Cora, 8

Favorite book: Eat, Pray, Love. Favorite film: Moonstruck. Favorite TV show: Modern Family. Favorite website: jcrew.com. Favorite music: Pretty much anything on WTMD. Celebrity dream date: Robert Downey Jr. Celebrity look-alike: Older Katie Holmes and Kristin Davis. Turn-ons: Humor, nice smile, good shoes. Turn-offs: Men with crunchy hair, arrogance. Big sports fan? I love football. I was married to a football coach for many years. Hidden talents? I play the bassoon. Most romantic thing you’ve ever done: After years of being afraid to fly, I flew to Boston to see an ex-flame. What tradition should be more common? Real dates! Is chivalry dead? It’s endangered. How did you spend the blizzard? Snowed in with my daughter and Labrador. Favorite app? GPS. Romance is…taking the time to act on your feelings.

John Bucher

34, equity investment liaison manager, T. Rowe Price; single, no kids

Favorite book: Bringing Down the House by Ben Mezrich. Favorite film: A Few Good Men. Favorite TV show: Glee and Boardwalk Empire. Favorite website: pandora.com. Favorite music: Country, pop, and ’80s. Celebrity dream date: Scarlett Johansson. Celebrity look-alike: Paul Rudd maybe? Turn-ons: Honesty and sings in the car. Turn-offs: Pessimism. Big sports fan? Absolutely, any local team. Hidden talents? I’m pretty handy with a hammer and a nail. Most romantic thing someone has done for you: A surprise homemade Valentine’s Day dinner. Favorite love story? Romeo and Juliet. What tradition should be more common? Courting. Is chivalry dead? Not in my mind. Favorite app? Does texting count? Lady Gaga vs. Madonna: A dress made entirely of meat is pretty hard to top! Romance is…alive and well.

Lisa Ponzoli, 31
Owner of Babe. (a boutique); single, no kids.

Favorite film: Goodfellas. Favorite TV show: Project Runway. Favorite music: Reggae. Celebrity dream date? Paul Rudd. Celebrity look-a-like? Alyssa Milano. Turn-ons? Wit, humor, smarts. Turnoffs? Materialism, stupidity, khaki pants. Favorite concert? Lily Allen. Do you need to be plugged-in? My iPhone is the best purchase I’ve ever made. What did you learn in the recession? To buy my inventory smartly. Phobias? Swimming in water that I can’t see through. Big sports fan? I’m trying to get into football. How do you stay fit? Classes at Federal Hill Fitness. How did you meet your last boyfriend? I was a fan of his band. Twilight is…obnoxious but dreamy. What would be your last meal? Pizza. Run into me here: Metropolitan or No Way Jose.

Chris Dunn, 33
Owner of Classical Guitar Ceremonies; single, no kids.

Favorite film: The Motorcycle Diaries. Favorite TV show: Lost. Favorite music: Germanic classical during the winter. Celebrity dream date? Scarlett Johansson. Celebrity look-a-like? Angel from Buffy. Turn-ons? Intelligent, open-minded people. Favorite concert? Perhaps Madonna when I was 8. Twitter is…helping America achieve new highs in narcissism. Name one way you’ve gone green. Recycle and consume locally brewed beer. Big sports fan? Not at all. Any hidden talents? Cooking, headstands, and propagating cool looking plants. How did you meet your last girlfriend? Swimming pool. Twilight is…A friend kindly explained it was a movie and that I live under a rock. Where do you take visitors? Late-night Korean food, BSO, and Peabody concerts. Run into me: Running down Charles Street.

Sharon Perfetti, 42
Cofounder of the Cool Kids Campaign; divorced, three kids, Marisa, 14, Mia, 12, Gianni, 10.

Favorite book: The Winner. Favorite film: Slumdog Millionaire. Favorite TV show: 30 Rock. Favorite website: coolkidscampaign.org. Celebrity dream date? Ben Carson, if he wasn’t married! Turn-ons? Sense of humor, athletic, ambitious. Turnoffs? Cracking your gum, arrogance. Favorite concert? Just saw Springsteen—amazing! Twitter is…I’m more into Facebook. Narcissism and voyeurism all rolled into one. What did you learn in the recession? Everything is temporary, both good and bad. Typical Saturday morning? Body pump class, then home for breakfast with the kids. How did you meet your last boyfriend? Blind date by a mutual friend. I like having the guys vetted and verified. Twilight is…my favorite time of day. Where do you take visitors? Harbor East. Run into me here: A fundraiser for Cool Kids.

Tommy Bullough, 27
Account executive, Retirement Living TV; single, no kids.

Favorite film: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Favorite music: Radiohead. Celebrity dream date? Zooey Deschanel or Mila Kunis. Turn-ons? Creativity, smiles, uniqueness, and kindness to others. Turnoffs? Pessimism, boredom, rudeness. Favorite concert? Big In Japan, from Baltimore, is one of my favorite live bands. What did you learn in the recession? Relax, people, you can still be happy. Phobias? I don’t mess around with bugs. Typical Saturday morning? Grab a book and ride my bike to a new breakfast spot. Big sports fan? I played lacrosse in college and am a big fan of watching Sunday football. What do you do to stay fit? Refuse to get bored. Any hidden talents? I challenge myself to make up at least one crazy adventure each week. Run into me here: Velocipede Bike Project.

Amina Chaudhry, 34
Physician; single, no kids. Favorite book: One Hundred Years of Solitude.

Favorite website: epicurious.com. Favorite music: R&B, hip-hop, Arabic pop, Bhangra. Celebrity dream date? Barack Obama. Celebrity look-a-like? My brother said Parminder Nagra from ER. Turn-ons? Kindness, humor, mild obsession with news. Turnoffs? Rudeness, traditional gender roles. Where do you get your news? NPR, BBC, and CNN. What did you learn in the recession? To never take anything for granted. How have you gone green? Recently purchased a composter. Who would you switch with for a day? Salma Hayek, because she is 5’2″ and fly. How do you stay fit? Running, yoga, and lifting. What would your last meal be? A New York slice. Cheese, no toppings. Where do you take visitors? Peter’s Inn. Run into me: In or around Patterson Park.

Libby Picken, 29
Singer for Lazerbitch; single, no kids.

Favorite film: Marie Antoinette and 28 Days Later. Favorite TV show: True Blood. Favorite website: facebook.com. Favorite music: Electronic dance. Celebrity dream date? Lily Allen. I’ve never dated a girl, but she seems like such a character. Turn-ons? Good manners, kindness, open-mindedness. Favorite concert? The ones I give myself in my car or apartment. Twitter is…great when it works! What did you learn in the recession? Considering I’m a “starving artist,” the recession hasn’t affected me. Phobias? Ghosts scare the crap out of me. Typical Saturday morning? Hit the dog park or watch a movie. Twilight is…for teenagers and depressed women. What would be your last meal? Something vegetarian. Where do you take visitors? Fells Point. Run into me here: The Hippo, singing karaoke.

Trae Lewis, 26
Police officer; single, no kids.

Favorite book: Of Mice and Men. Favorite film: Lawrence of Arabia. Favorite TV show: The Office. Favorite website: mlb.com. Favorite music: 1970s R&B. Celebrity dream date? Eva Mendes and Alicia Keys. Turn-ons? Manicures and pedicures. Turnoffs? Bad teeth. Favorite concert? U2. Twitter is…the ultimate text message. Where do you get your news? Time magazine. What did you learn in the recession? There are no guarantees. Phobias? Never having a family. Typical Saturday morning? Attempting to work out. Big sports fan? Diehard Dodgers fan. Twilight is…a show or movie about vampires? What would be your last meal? Steak and garlic mashed potatoes. Where do you take visitors? Camden Yards, such a beautiful park. Run into me here: Havana Club or Sullivan’s.

Donny Chen, 28
Advertising.com data analyst; single, no kids.

Favorite book: The 4-Hour Workweek. Favorite film: Dogma. Favorite website: theonion.com. Celebrity dream date? Jessica Alba, who is a proxy for Tina Fey. Celebrity look-a-like? Jet Li and Kobe Bryant. Turn-ons? Being intelligent, athletic, easygoing, and sweet. Turnoffs? Being ignorant, self-centered, or unmotivated. Favorite concert? Justin Timberlake FutureSex/LoveShow. Your biggest recession sacrifice? Dance lessons and rock climbing. Typical Sunday morning? Cursing Chick-fil-A for not being open. Ravens or Orioles? Orioles. Singles of Baltimore, the lesson here is that you can have fans even if most people don’t consider you exceptional. What do you do to stay fit? I go to the gym regularly and enjoy a high metabolism. Run into me: In front of my 63-inch plasma. Wait, how did you get in here?

Jacqueline Cummings, 43
Guidance counselor and proprietor of Notre Maison Tea House; divorced, two kids, Alea, 18, and Aarin, 15.

Favorite film: The original Sparkle. Favorite TV show: Anything on HGTV. Favorite music: Gospel and jazz. Celebrity dream date? Morris Chestnut. Celebrity look-a-like? Halle Berry with long locks and Tina Turner legs. Turn-ons? Intelligent, physically fit, clean cut. Turnoffs? Silly, pessimistic, arrogant. What did you learn in the recession? To appreciate my job even more. Big sports fan? I love racquetball. Hidden talents? Great with tools. How did you meet your last boyfriend? Shopping at Whole Foods. Twilight is…a beautiful nightfall. What would be your last meal? Tilapia or salmon with asparagus. Crab cakes—broiled or fried? Allergic to crab. Run into me here: Notre Maison on 25th Street.

Steve Ruckman, 30
Government attorney; single, no kids.

Favorite book: I and Thou. Favorite film: Cinema Paradiso. Favorite music: Indie folk. Celebrity dream date? Jennifer Connelly. Celebrity look-a-like? Kenneth Branagh. Turn-ons? Brains, kindness, love of slow songs. Turnoffs? Picky eating, smoking, tardiness. Favorite concert? The Weepies in NYC. Do you feel the need to be plugged-in? I don’t like people reaching for a Blackberry mid-conversation. What did you learn in the recession? What goes up must come down. Typical Saturday morning? Hit snooze three times because I can. Big sports fan? If by “sports” you mean “arts,” then yes. Hidden talents? I’m a semi-pro violist. How did you meet your last girlfriend? In an elevator. Twilight is…so bad it’s good. Where do you take visitors? The Peabody Library. Run into me: Drinking coffee at Donna’s.

Nicole Sherry, 32
Head groundskeeper, Baltimore Orioles; single, no kids.

Favorite book: The Known World. Favorite film: Tommy Boy. Favorite website: fmylife.com. Favorite music: Alternative. Celebrity dream date? Will Ferrell. Celebrity look-a-like? People have said Chelsea Handler. Turn-ons? Humor. Turnoffs? White sneakers. Favorite concert? Pearl Jam. Twitter is…totally not for me! Where do you get your news? Betty, my 81-year-old neighbor. What did you learn in the recession? Spend it while you have it. Phobias? Close talkers. Big sports fan? Absolutely. Hidden talents? I have reached expert level on “Crazy Train” on Guitar Hero 3. Twilight is…that vampire movie, right? What would be your last meal? Full rack of barbecued ribs. What do you show visitors? Mr. Boh’s winking eye from my rooftop. Run into me here: Little Italy.

Nick Carroll, 38
Sales director, Phytel; divorced, one kid, Emma Ann, 3.

Favorite film: Glengarry Glen Ross. Favorite TV show: Californication. Favorite website: foodnetwork.com. Favorite music: Alternative, punk. Celebrity dream date? Padma Lakshmi. Celebrity look-a-like? Used to get Ray Liotta when he did Goodfellas. Turn-ons? Bright, well-dressed, fun, and in good shape. Turnoffs? Possessiveness and being closed-minded. Favorite concert? Anytime I’ve seen The Pogues. What did you learn in the recession? That just about everyone is vulnerable. Name one way you’ve gone green. Let my ex-wife have the Denali. Any Phobias? Hot tubs. Typical Saturday morning? Making my daughter blueberry pancakes. Big sports fan? Wouldn’t paint my face, but I like football and college basketball. What do you show visitors? Eating crabs and drinking cold beer is hard to beat. Run into me here: Meadowood Park in Lutherville.

Morgan Moses-Allen, 27
Retirement plan coordinator, T. Rowe Price; single, no kids.

Favorite book: The Alchemist. Favorite film: Almost Famous. Favorite website: perezhilton.com. Favorite music: Extremely eclectic taste. Celebrity dream date? Jude Law. Celebrity look-a-like? Mya. Turn-ons? Intelligence, talent, nice hair. Turnoffs? Conceited, childishness, and game-playing. Twitter is…addicting. Do you need to be plugged-in? Yes, I am B.B. obsessed. What did you learn in the recession? Staying in with friends and watching DVDs is just as fun as a night out. Big sports fan? Yes, I wear my Ravens jersey every week. How do you stay fit? Kickboxing and cardio hip-hop class. What would be your last meal? My Granny’s baked mac and cheese. Where do you take visitors? The Aquarium. My dad has worked there for 20 years. Run into me here: Merritt Athletic Club.

Michael Oher, 23
Tackle, Baltimore Ravens; single, no kids.

Favorite film: The Godfather. Favorite TV show: Nip/Tuck. Favorite website: nike.com. Favorite music: Hip-hop and R&B. Celebrity look-a-like? Kelly Gregg tells me I look like Anthony Anderson. Favorite concert: Lil Wayne. Where do you get your news? CNN or FOX. What did you learn from the recession? Save your money. How have you gone green? I do more recycling. Phobias? Fear of heights. Typical Sunday morning? Getting ready for a game and watching film. Ravens or Orioles? I’m a Raven. Who would you switch with for a day? President Barack Obama, because he’s got all the control. Twilight is…Good. What would your last meal be? Shrimp and fettuccine Alfredo. Where do you take visitors? The Inner Harbor. Run into me: At the practice facility.

Andrea Kunicky, 28
Associate account executive, Maroon PR; single, no kids.

Favorite book: Twilight. Favorite film: The Departed. Favorite TV show: Grey’s Anatomy. Favorite music: Hip-hop. Celebrity dream date? Leonardo DiCaprio. Celebrity look-a-like? Jennifer Love Hewitt and Shannon Elizabeth. Turn-ons? Smart, funny, confident, loves sports. Turnoffs? Cocky, smoker, too quiet. Favorite concert? Janet Jackson’s Velvet Rope tour. Twitter is…a great social media tool. Love celebrity tweets! Phobias? Small case of arachnophobia. Big sports fan? Huge! I love football and the Steelers. Twilight is…a phenomenon that has taken the U.S. by storm. What would be your last meal? Drinking a whole lot of wine and eating my mom’s stuffed shells. What do you show visitors? The Inner Harbor and the nightlife. Run into me here: Any of the Federal Hill bars.

Eric Masterton-Mott, 42
Director of training, Visit Baltimore; single, no kids.

Favorite book: The Gift. Favorite film: Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life. Favorite music: I like everything from baroque to AC/DC. Celebrity dream date? Hugh Jackman. Celebrity look-a-like? The cashier at Royal Farms thinks I actually am Christian from Nip/Tuck. Turn-ons? Fit, a nice smile, and a five-o’clock shadow. Turnoffs? Dishonesty. Favorite concert? Thievery Corporation at Pier Six. Twitter is…great for marketing, but people need to stop having all their conversations online. What lesson did you learn in the recession? We all need to take care of each other more. Hidden talents? My friends call me the “renaissance man” because I can fix anything. How did you meet your last boyfriend? match.com. What would be your last meal? Any Italian dish my mom cooked up. Where do you take visitors? Fort McHenry park for a picnic. Run into me here: Hull Street Blues.

Mary Bell, 51
Director of member success team at the MAC; divorced, no kids.

Favorite book: Eat, Pray, Love. Favorite film: Dead Poets Society. Favorite TV show: Top Chef. Favorite music: Jazz, rock, pop. Celebrity dream date? Ashton Kutcher. Celebrity look-a-like? I’ve been told Jennifer Aniston, but I act like Cameron Diaz. Turn-ons? Humor, adventure, competitive spirit. Turnoffs? Pessimism, insecurity, stereotyping. Favorite concert? Madonna’s Girlie Tour. Where do you get your news? The streets. Do you need to be plugged-in? No, prefer face-to-face engagement. What did you learn in the recession? Don’t get divorced during one! How do you stay fit? Yoga, spinning, boot camp three times a week, and lots of laughter. Where do you take visitors? Aquarium, then a pub crawl with friends and family. Run into me here: Tark’s Grill, where I bartend part-time.

Keith Murphy, 27
Owner, J.A. Murphy’s Tavern; single, no kids.

Favorite book: The Great Gatsby. Favorite film: The Princess Bride. Favorite TV show: It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Favorite website: pandora.com. Favorite music: Country. Celebrity dream date? Natalie Portman. Celebrity look-a-like? Robert Pattinson. Turn-ons? A beautiful smile, honesty. Turnoffs? Lack of confidence. Favorite concert? Will Hoge at The 8×10. Twitter is…Who is Twitter? Is she cute? Where do you get your news? The Sun and ESPN. What did you learn in the recession? What I can live without. Big sports fan? Yes, anything Boston. Hidden talents? I play the piano. How did you meet your last girlfriend? Drunk at a bar…bad mistake! Twilight is…a great time to play golf. Where do you take visitors? One-Eyed Mike’s. Run into me here: J.A. Murphy’s.

Suzette Lee, 30
Nurse at Johns Hopkins Hospital; single, no kids.

Favorite book: Shantaram. Favorite film: Moonstruck. Favorite TV show: Anthony Bourdain No Reservations. Favorite website: BBC.co.uk. Favorite music: Led Zeppelin. Celebrity dream date? Liam Neeson. Celebrity look-a-like? Catherine Zeta-Jones. Turn-ons? Spontaneity, intelligence, and a deep soul. Turnoffs? Arrogance, small hands, no interest in worldly events. Favorite concert? The H.O.R.D.E. Festival in 1995. What did you learn in the recession? That I have “champagne taste.” Name one way you’ve gone green. I bike most places. Ravens or Orioles? Orioles—baseball mellow, football brutal. What do you do to stay fit? Be a nurse, yoga. Hidden talents? Impersonations. Reality show you’d be perfect for: Does SNL count? Twilight is…vampires are invariably sexy. Run into me: Tasting beers at The Brewer’s Art.

Brendan Mascuch, 24
Bartender, Milan; single, no kids.

Favorite book: A Cook’s Tour by Anthony Bourdain. Favorite film: Bull Durham. Favorite website: theonion.com. Favorite music: Anything but Toby Keith-style country. Celebrity dream date? Sienna Miller. Celebrity look-a-like? I was stopped a couple of times in China by people who thought I looked like Wentworth Miller from Prison Break. Turn-ons? Subtle confidence. Turnoffs? Shyness, close talkers. Favorite concert? The Black Crowes. Where do you get your news? Jon Stewart. Ravens or Orioles? New York Giants. Makes me real popular around here. Reality show you’d be perfect for: The Amazing Race. What would your last meal be? Anything made by chef Cindy Wolf. Where do you take visitors? Max’s on Broadway. Run into me here: Sip & Bite around 2:30 a.m.

JEN

JENNIFER STEARMAN , 30

Single, no kids, Financial Services Attorney, McGuireWoods LLP

Favorite book? The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein Favorite musician or group? Lenny Kravitz Favorite movie? The Shawshank RedemptionCelebrity lookalike? I ve been told I resemble Alanis Morissette.Celebrity dream date? Harry Connick Jr. If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Jack Welch, Colin Powell, Cal Ripken Jr. What job would you like to have for a day? Professional traveler, philanthropist, race car driver, rock star, astronaut . . .People who sign prenuptial agreements are Planning strategi­cally, but hopelessly unromantic.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? “Why don’t you change into something a little less comfortable?” What’s your favorite way to kill time? Driving with the top down, destination unknown. What’s your favorite word? Utopia Who are better drivers, men or women? There is probably a reason why men pay higher insurance premiums than women.Do you believe in love at first sight? I believe in infatuation at first sight. What’s your worst quality? I’m a workaholic.What’s your best quality? I’m versatile.

CASEY BANE , 26

Single, no kids, full­time student (obtaining Masters in Teaching)

Favorite book? The Great Gatsby Favorite musician or group? The BeatlesFavorite movie? The Sound of Music Celebrity lookalike? Jodie FosterCelebrity dream date? Vince VaughnIf you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?Rudy Giuliani, Caroline Kennedy, and Tom HanksWhat job would you like to have for a day? PhilanthropistIf you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Make sure my family was taken care of. Then I would travel.

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says: “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? “Thanks. Sorry I can’t say the same.”People who sign prenuptial agreements are Preoccupied with money and not love.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Play backgammonIf you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be?Dazed and Confused What’s your worst quality? I procrastinateWhat’s your best quality? My loyalty.

COLLEEN BERGIN , 30

Single, no kids, Human Resources Software Consultant

Favorite book? Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier Favorite movie? When Harry Met SallyCelebrity lookalike? I’ve been told a young Ali McGraw.Celebrity dream date? Ed Harris If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Dinner at Da Mimmo with Ben Stiller, Secre­tary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld, and Sting.What job would you like to have for a day? Professor of Phi­

losophy at a small liberal arts university.People who sign prenuptial agreements are Not living for the moment and are not risk­takers in the relationship arena. Who are better drivers, men or women? Neither. Daring, athletic people who visually learn do best on the highway.If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Grew up expecting Some Kind of Wonderful but probably have ended up with something more like Sliding Doors. What’s your worst quality? In pursuit of success, I can often be self­critical and not very forgiving of myself. What’s your best quality? I’m a good friend in fun times and in times where one needs support.

DAVE BRIGHT , 31

Single, no kids, Physician Resident, Internal Medicine

Favorite book? Patriot Games by Tom Clancy Favorite group? U2 Favorite movie?Austin Powers in Goldmember Celebrity lookalike? Some would say Dean Cain?Celebrity dream date? Cameron Diaz . . . she is stunning and seemingly very down­to­earth and fun. What job would you like to have for a day? Always want­ed to drive a snowplow—sounds crazy, but it’s true!

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?

Approached a beach underwater with flowers inside a water­proof bag. She was very surprised!

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? Smile and blow her a kiss.Do you believe in love at first sight? Absolutely. There is nothing more amazing than looking into someone’s eyes for the first time and feeling that you’ve always known them. What is your worst quality? I drink way too much coffee!!What is your best quality? I am exceedingly kind.

JASON BUNGORI , 22

Single, no kids, student, Villa Julie College

Favorite book? Native Son by Richard Wright Favorite movie? Braveheart Celebrity lookalike? I’m not sure, but I’ve been told I look like Tom Cruise or Kevin Richardson from the Back­street Boys. [Editor’s note: We think he’s a younger— and cuter—version of Jeff Probst from Survivor.]Celebrity dream date? Keri RussellWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?Drove seven hours in a blinding blizzard through upstate New York. People who sign prenuptial agreements are Not going to be married any length of time.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Take them out to a very dark place and enjoy ourselves. What’s your favorite word? Chillin’ Do you believe in love at first sight?No. How can you love someone when you don’t even know them?When is the last time you cried? Johnny Unitas’s tribute at the Ravens game.What’s in the trunk of your car? It’s more like a suitcase . . . clothes. I’m always on the go.

VIC CHESWICK JR., 37

Single, no kids, Real Estate Executive

Favorite book? The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy Favorite musician or group?Too many—Carly Simon to Guns N’ Roses. Favorite movie? Shawshank RedemptionCelebrity lookalike? No idea. [Editor’s suggestion: Maybe George Stephanopoulos?]Celebrity dream date? Fran Drescher What job would you like to have for a day?Playing guitar for

Van Halen

If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Panic! I’ve always said, I’d

never want to win.

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? “You’ve got good taste.”What’s your favorite way to kill time? NY Times CrosswordWhat’s your favorite word? I don’t think you can print it. Who are better drivers—men or women? Neither. Both are equally dangerous.Do you believe in love at first sight? Yes When is the last time you cried?What time is it? What’s your worst quality? I run two to 12 minutes late (usually).What’s your best quality? I’m a good listener.

Single, no kids, News Director, WBAL­TV 11 News

Favorite book? Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë Favorite musician or group? Billy Joel. Old stuff. And then there’s Vivaldi. Favorite movie? MoonstruckCelebrity lookalike? I flew back from vacation yesterday and a guy on the plane told me he was convinced I was Fergie. Interesting.

What job would you like to have for a day? That’s easy: Rock StarWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? It involved a red­eye from Los Angeles to Baltimore and clam shooters at the Cross Street Market at 8 a.m.If you won the lottery what’s the first thing you would do? Buy my parents their dream home in Stone Harbor, NJ.People who sign prenuptial agreements are Doing what they feel is necessary to protect themselves. Being the diehard romantic that I am, I pray I’ll never have to consider signing one.Who are better drivers, men or women? It has nothing to do with men or women. It’s all about personality. Nervous people make scary drivers. Confident people are more in control behind the wheel. It’s not rocket science. If you asked me who’s better at parallel parking, I’d have a different answer!

LAURA LEE DILLON , 43

Divorced; two kids, Lauren Michael Dillon, 18, Matthew Lee Dillon, 11; Hair Designer and Freelance Photographer

Favorite book? The medical dictionary Favorite movie? Mrs. DoubtfireCelebrity lookalike? Nancy, from thirtysomething (Patricia Wet­tig). I was once asked to appear on Geraldo as her lookalike. Celebrity dream date? Bob Barker—old, I know, but distin­guished. Or George Clooney.What job would you like to have for a day? Be a surgeon and

operate to save a life or deliver a child.If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Buy a golf course and help the needy. People who sign prenuptial agreements are Rightfully cautious.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? No way. I have one—it says “Masters” (as in the golf tournament).

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Appreciate her for who she is, not for what she’s wearing. (OK, if it’s that bad, I’d change it.)Who are better drivers, men or women? Older men and younger women.

PAULA FINKELSTEIN , 27

Single, no kids, Marketing/Communications for a financial services company

Favorite book? To Kill a Mockingbird Favorite musician or group? REM Favorite movie? Shawshank Redemption and Swingers, depending on my mood.Celebrity lookalike? Sandra Bullock Celebrity dream date? Andrew McCarthy What job would you like to have for a day? Host of TV’s

Trading SpacesPeople who sign prenuptial agreements are Probably wealthier than I am. Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? Depends how long his name is. A few minutes of pain is doable, but a few hours is more than I can take.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Driving around with the windows down, sun­roof open, blaring ’80s one­hit wonders Who are better drivers, men or women? Women, because they’ll ask for directions.Do you believe in love at first sight? I’ll let you know. What’s your best quality? I was voted “most honest” in the 4th grade by my entire elementary school. Do you think that still counts today?

DAVID DOHERTY , 33

Single, High School Music Teacher/Source of amusement for students not used to English accents

Favorite book? Dating for Dummies; Dating for Complete Morons; How to Be a Better Boyfriend (gift). Favorite musician or group? J.S. Bach (he wrote all that great music and had twenty kids). Celebrity lookalike?Brad Pitt with brown hair and eyes, no dim­ples, a bigger nose, and a differently shaped face. Also, instead of the six pack, I’m working on the whole keg.

Celebrity dream date? Renee Zellweger in Bridget Jones’s Diary (though not in that bunny outfit). What job would you like to have for a day?International man of mystery Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? Nope. I would hope that I could remember her name.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Feel that I’m in good company.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Cleaning the oven.What’s your favorite word? Freebeer. Do you believe in love at first sight?Only if I saw her first? What’s in the trunk of your car?Unimaginable horrors/decaying gym attire.

Divorced, no kids, Instructor/Public Health Professional/ Community Health Nurse

Favorite book? Succulent Wild Woman by SarkFavorite musician or group? A local swing dance band, Jacques Johnson Band Favorite movie? Life is BeautifulCelebrity lookalike? I have been told Mia Farrow or Meg Ryan, but I’m not the best judge. What job would you like to have for a day? Fashion designer or an international journalistPeople who sign prenuptial agreements are In this day and age, probably wise. How­ever, I once heard that this was an act of not trusting the other. I think it sets barriers to a healthy, trusting relationship.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? “Can I help you with that?” Being a fashion consul­tant for many friends over the years has been one of my most favorite creative outlets.When is the last time you cried? Yesterday. Crying is good. What’s in the trunk of your car? Dance shoes—several different pairs—and hiking boots.

SUSAN GABRIEL , 51

Divorced; two kids, Amy, 27; Marc, 24; Assistant professor, English Department, CCBC—Essex

Favorite book? An extremely difficult question for an English teacher! How can I possibly choose a favorite book? Read­ing is a major passion in my life. I love so many of the literary masterpieces, such as Pride and Prejudice orThe House of Mirth. I do, however, take a guilty pleasure in my true pas­sion in books: mysteries. My favorite authors at the moment are Peter Robinson and Elizabeth George.If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Before I let my practical nature take over, I’d take my closest friends and favorite family members on a first­class, no­limits trip. Given the nature of these friends and family members, a pub crawl through London might be just the ticket. What’s your favorite word? I should probably choose some impressive word like “pugilistic,” but I think my favorite word is “whatever.” I like its tone of cynicism and sarcasm, mixed with a sense of acceptance and possibility. A very “deep” word. Who are better drivers, men or women? Please! On the beltway, there are no good drivers!If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? On a whole, my dating life would beThe Good, the Bad, and the Ugly; often it’sThe Crying Game; but in the end it’s Much Ado About Nothing. What’s in the trunk of your car? The usual junk, plus one of those canvas chairs which fold up to fit into a carrying bag. Its best feature is the built­in cup­holder on the arm. You never know when you might run across a tailgate party.

JAMIE R. GELLER , 25

Single, no kids, Advertising Account Planner

Favorite book? The Little Engine That Could—timeless message (but don’t fret, my reading level does go beyond first grade!)Favorite musician or group? Janet Jackson. Such a per­former and a somewhat normal member of an anything but normal family!Favorite movie? Kissing Jessica Stein—the wittiest, most creative movie I’ve seen in a very long time. Celebrity lookalike? Renee ZellewegerCelebrity dream date: All of these new young hunks out there but I’m still a sucker for Tom Cruise. What job would you like to have for a day? Soap opera actress—I crave the drama!If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Run around dancing like a Mexican jumping bean screaming my lungs out to anyone who would listen!

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? “Accidentally” throw a glass of punch on her and after apologizing profusely, give her something cute to change into!Who are better drivers, men or women? Anyone but me!If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Reality BitesWhat’s in the trunk of your car? Two words—”oy vey”!What’s your worst quality? I am too honest for my own good.

Favorite book? At the moment (it changes from time to time), The Wild Ass’s Skin by Honore de Balzac Favorite musician or group? Bela Fleck and the FlecktonesFavorite movie? Groundhog Day Celebrity lookalike? Geraldo RiveraCelebrity dream date? I don’t dream about dating celebrities, but since you asked, Penelope Cruz

If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?The Dalai Lama, Elie Weisel, and Tony Robbins (preferably at sepa­rate dinners)

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Get married

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction?I, of course, would first smile, and then if I was interested in meeting the discerning woman who made the remark, I would stop her and continue the conversation People who sign prenuptial agreements are More pragmatic than romantic.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Undress her, of course.What’s your favorite word? PASSION! Who are better drivers—men or women?Men. It is one of the few ways men are generally superior to womenWhat’s in the trunk of your car? Clean, empty space What’s your worst quality?I can be judgmental What’s your best quality? My integrity

Favorite musician or group? U2 Favorite movie? Remember the TitansCelebrity lookalike? Helen Hunt or Lelee Sobieski Celebrity dream date? Vin DieselWhat job would you like to have for a day? Brooke Burke, E!’s Wild On Travel Guide

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says: “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reac­tion? Thanks! They’re real!What’s your favorite way to kill time? I’m usually in the gym, riding my bike, hanging out with friends, or sleeping.What’s your favorite word? FridayWho are better drivers, men or women? I haven’t noticed. I’m always on my cell phone!

If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? It’s actually more like the TV show Freaks and Geeks.Do you believe in love at first sight? Yes! (or should I walk by again?)When is the last time you cried? When I won Enrique Iglesias tickets on the radio! I was laughing so hard I was crying!What’s your worst quality? I am quick to trust. What’s your best quality? Fun­loving and spontaneous

RHEA FEIKEN, AGELESS. WIDOW, TWO KIDS

Favorite book? Enduring Love by Ian McEwan. Love the title, subject, and writing.Favorite musician or group? Keith Jarrett Favorite movie? Swept Away (the original!)Celebrity lookalike? Meg Ryan’s mother Celebrity dream date? Jeremy Irons If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?

Dolly Parton, Bill Clinton, and Susan Sarandon What job would you like to have for a day? Give out the MacArthur “Genius” Award What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Mar­ried—two timesIf you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Rent a house in Venice and invite friends

People who sign prenuptial agreements are Desperate. You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? I would never have that kind of friend

If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be?

Home Alone Who are better drivers, men or women? Women. The car’s not an extension of a body part!When is the last time you cried? Trying to fill out this questionnaire

NOLA DOBRATZ , 23

Single, no kids, Marketing Director

Favorite musician or group? U2 Favorite movie? Remember the TitansCelebrity lookalike? Helen Hunt or Lelee Sobieski Celebrity dream date? Vin DieselWhat job would you like to have for a day? Brooke Burke, E!’s Wild On Travel Guide

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says: “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reac­tion? Thanks! They’re real!What’s your favorite way to kill time? I’m usually in the gym, riding my bike, hanging out with friends, or sleeping.What’s your favorite word? FridayWho are better drivers, men or women? I haven’t noticed. I’m always on my cell phone!

If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? It’s actually more like the TV show Freaks and Geeks.Do you believe in love at first sight? Yes! (or should I walk by again?)When is the last time you cried? When I won Enrique Iglesias tickets on the radio! I was laughing so hard I was crying!What’s your worst quality? I am quick to trust. What’s your best quality? Fun­loving and spontaneous

Black V­neck graffiti t­shirt ($58) by Glima at Wilmington Country Store. Jean jacket with dyed raccoon col­lar ($295) at Mano Swartz. Boot cut jeans ($203) by Sky and black fringe belt ($80) at Octavia. Sterling silver choker ($1,200), matching bracelet ($650), and sterling and 14k gold cit­rine ring ($720), all by David Yurman at Radcliffe Jewelers

Favorite book? At the moment (it changes from time to time), The Wild Ass’s Skin by Honore de Balzac Favorite musician or group? Bela Fleck and the FlecktonesFavorite movie? Groundhog Day Celebrity lookalike? Geraldo RiveraCelebrity dream date? I don’t dream about dating celebrities, but since you asked, Penelope Cruz

If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?The Dalai Lama, Elie Weisel, and Tony Robbins (preferably at sepa­rate dinners)

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?

Get married

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? I, of course, would first smile,

and then if I was interested in meeting the discerning woman who made the remark, I would stop her and continue the conversation People who sign prenuptial agreements are More pragmatic than romantic.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Undress her, of course.What’s your favorite word? PASSION! Who are better drivers—men or women?Men. It is one of the few ways men are generally superior to womenWhat’s in the trunk of your car? Clean, empty space What’s your worst quality?I can be judgmental What’s your best quality? My integrity

ROSA GARGANO , 24

Single, no kids, Co­owner, Rocco’s Capriccio Restaurant

Favorite musician or group? Madonna Favorite movie? Murder in the FirstCelebrity lookalike? Isabella Rossellini Celebrity dream date? Oscar de la HoyaIf you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Chris Kattan, Rudy Giuliani, Con­doleezza Rice

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Hmmm, I think I’d rather keep those skeletons in my closet

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Laugh hysterically, and then put on a hideous outfit as well.

Who are better drivers, men or women? Women, women, women

If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Mission Impossible Do you believe in love at first sight? No. Unless . . . well, never mind. No. What’s in the trunk of your car? What’s not in the trunk of my car?! What’s your worst quality? My Italian temperWhat’s your best quality? The ability to make the best of any situation.

AMY FREDERICK , 29

Single, no kids, Financial Analyst

Favorite book? Green Eggs and Ham Favorite musician or group? Frank SinatraFavorite movie? Caddyshack Celebrity lookalike? Jennifer Aniston, before she became hot Celebrity dream date? David LettermanIf you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Lou Holtz, George W. Bush, the PopeWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the

name of love? Let’s just say it’s not exactly legal.You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says: “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? “Thanks, nice ass.” (Can I say that?)People who sign prenuptial agreements are Lucky to be getting married to someone who needs one.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? I already have three. Just kidding. Only if his name is Gooch.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Think, “Wow, how much better do I look now?”What’s your favorite way to kill time? Driving rangeWhat’s your worst quality? I can’t lie. What’s your best quality? I can’t lie.

ALYCE JOHNSON , 50

Separated; two kids, John III, 26; Doug, 23; Human Resources Manager

Favorite book? Beach Music by Pat ConroyFavorite musician or group? Bruce Springsteen and the E Street BandFavorite movie? Tadpole Celebrity lookalike? Sigourney WeaverCelebrity dream date? George ClooneyIf you could have dinner with any three living people, who

would they be? Sean Connery, James Carville, Oprah Winfrey What job would you like to have for a day? Wine Vendor at Cakebread Cellars, Napa ValleyPeople who sign prenuptial agreements are Pessimists. You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Nothing; sometimes hideous can turn out to be funky and fun.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Surf the Net and dream of far away travels.What’s your favorite word? TransitionIf you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Duck Soup (zany!) When is the last time you cried? Yesterday afternoon (my 2­and­a­half­year­old grand­son didn’t want me to go home). What’s your worst quality? Too impulsive.What’s your best quality? Good listener.

DR. JAMI GRANT , 42 Single; two kids, Nadia, 21, Julian, 15; Director of ForensicStudies, University of Baltimore

Favorite book? Brave New World Favorite musician or group? Bruce SpringsteenFavorite movie? A Christmas StoryCelebrity lookalike? Candice Bergen (my students tell me)Celebrity dream date? Robert De Niro If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Rosa Parks, Dr. Benjamin Carson, and Lech WalesaWhat job would you like to have for a day? Supreme Court JusticeIf you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Purchase an 883 Harley Sportster and get my motorcycle license.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? I am a sworn officer of the fashion police and as such I am bound to uphold all fashion laws.Who are better drivers, men or women? Driving ability is not gender­based. That being said, women are better drivers. What’s your favorite way to kill time? Enjoying steamed crabs and ice cold beer with friends. What’s your worst quality? I am impatient. What’s your best quality? I am empathetic.

WHITNEY HANNON , 24

Single, no kids, Marketing Manager, The Maryland Science Center

Favorite book? Any of the Harry Potter series, or most recently How to Travel In Ireland For $60 a DayFavorite musician or group? Beastie Boys and Counting CrowsFavorite movie? (In a Bill Lumbergh voice) Yeah . . . I’m gonna have to say Office SpaceCelebrity lookalike? On a good day, the young chick from Beetle Bailey, on a bad day, the comic strip Cathy. Seriously, people have mentioned I resemble the girl from The Blair Witch Project.Celebrity dream date? The hometown boy, Mr. Edward Norton.If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Call NASA and schedule myself in for the next launch.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? Only if it can read: “I’m with stupid.”What’s your favorite way to kill time? People stalk—uh, I mean watch. If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Dazed and ConfusedDo you believe in love at first sight? Does the human head weigh 8 pounds?When is the last time you cried? At one of my best guy friends’ weddings, or maybe it was the last time the Orioles won the World Series.What’s your best quality? My sarcastic humor.

MARCUS MACON , 27

Divorced, no kids, Pro at Suburban Golf Club

Favorite musician or group? UB40 Favorite movie? ArmageddonCelebrity lookalike? Freddie Prinze Jr. Celebrity dream date? Denise RichardsWhat job would you like to have for a day? King of EnglandWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?I’m not the extreme type. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do?

Retire. And, of course, play golf.

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? I’m flattered. Absolutely.People who sign prenuptial agreements are Intelligent.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other?Absolutely not. What’s your favorite word? Sketchy. Who are better drivers—men or women? Men. Because we don’t look in the mirror to put our makeup on. Do you believe in love at first sight? No. You don’t fall in love by looking at someone. Admiring beauty is not love. What’s your worst quality? Procrastination.What’s your best quality? There are so many! Ha! I guess I’m giving of my time.

CAROL E. MALONEY , 30

Single, no kids (one dog, 71/2), Sports Anchor/Reporter

Favorite musician or group? Stevie WonderFavorite movie? There’s Something about Mary Celebrity lookalike? Julia RobertsCelebrity dream date? Mike MyersWhat job would you like to have for a day? Food critic What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? I love skiing, but three years ago I picked up snowboard­ing and the guy started me out on blue runs. I followed him and was so sore I couldn’t raise my hands over my head for a week. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Rent Fells Point for the night.You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Give her/him the up­down, laugh, and hit the road.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Channel surfWhat’s your favorite word? Yes!Who are better drivers, men or women? Men, without question.If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? The Good, the Bad & the Ugly Do you believe in love at first sight? Yes, especially after a few cocktails.When is the last time you cried? Big girls don’t cry.What’s your worst quality? I’ve been told that it’s when I’m a bit late, but is it possible the whole world sometimes is a bit early? What’s your best quality? My independence.

KEVIN FRANCE, SINGLE GRAD STUDENT AT JOHNS HOPKINS. NO KIDS.

Favorite book? The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway Favorite musician or group? The Grateful Dead Favorite movie? Ferris Bueller’s Day Off Celebrity lookalike? Ashton Kutcher from That ’70s Show Celebrity dream date? Gwyneth Paltrow If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Kurt Vonnegut, Robin Williams, and Bill Clinton What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?

Shipping myself Fed Ex to surprise an ex­girlfriend on her birthday If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Buy my dad a Porsche

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says? “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? Blush, smile, then introduce myself. People who sign prenuptial agreements are Planning on getting divorced. What’s your favorite word? Nebulosity Who are better drivers—men or women? Confident women. They are assertive yet patient. When is the last time you cried? Last break­up What’s in the trunk of your car? Camping gear: tent, sleeping bag, etc.

MARTIN MARKS , 21

Single, no kids, Student

Favorite musician or group? Gah, so many! Right now, a close contest between Radiohead and Dismemberment Plan. Favorite movie? The Shining orThe Exorcist (I like scary flicks) Celebrity dream date? One of the Bush daughters, because they look like they know how to party.

If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?Linda Tripp, Monica Lewinsky, and Hillary Clinton, you know, just to get everything out there.What job would you like to have for a day?Dolphin trainer at National Aquarium. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do?I’d move out to Italy and start my own vineyard, inviting my writer friends to come stay out there as long as they wanted to. That, or buy lots and lots of pudding.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? As the son of a fashion designer, I’ve gained the important skill about finding some good out of a really bad outfit, e.g.—Tear the sleeves off and hand them a do­rag. Nah, clothes aren’t that important. What’s your favorite way to kill time?No joke, I translate papyri (ancient Egyptian written documents). As a Near Eastern Studies major, I’m focusing on Egyptology anyway, so I now do this instead of crossword puzzles. What’s your favorite word?Concupiscent. I saw it in a Wallace Stevens poem once, and it really stuck.

BRIAN MCKEW , 26 Single, no kids, CEO, Camden Group and Home Networks

Favorite book? Underworld by Don DeLillo Favorite musician or group? I have eclectic taste in music . . . Millencolin, Big Head Todd, Black Eyed Peas, and The Hives.Favorite movie? Tommy Boy Celebrity lookalike? Kevin BaconCelebrity dream date? Jessica Biel If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? The Pope, Bill Gates and George W. Bush.

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?Let’s just say I can’t put that in the magazine.If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? I’d get a hold of a good financial advisor then call my family and celebrate! Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? Only on my forehead.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Any opportunity I get to mountain bike.What’s your favorite word? Brobdingnagian Who are better drivers men or women? I’m the best driver of them all and that’s all that matters.Do you believe in love at first sight? Absolutely! What’s in the trunk of your car?Jimmy Hoffa.

TIMOTHY MITCHELL , 43

TIMOTHY MITCHELL , 43

Single, no kids, Attorney

Favorite book? Presumed Innocent Favorite movie? Liar Liar Celebrity lookalike?A combination of Bruce Willis and Michael J. Fox Celebrity dream date? Sandra BullockWhat job would you like to have for a day?Airline pilot What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?Snuck into a girlfriend’s office after hours to decorate it with streamers and flowers.If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Have a huge party for my friends and family and invite U2 for entertainment. People who sign prenuptial agreements are Trying to put divorce attorneys out of business.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other?Yes, my arm could be twisted. What’s your favorite way to kill time? Surf the NetWhat’s your favorite word? Weekend! Who are better drivers, men or women?Neither. Have you been on the beltway lately?If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Groundhog DayDo you believe in love at first sight? Yes, absolutely. What’s your worst quality?Try to do too much at one time What’s your best quality? I’m a good listener

R. BRANDON MOLLETT , 26

Single, no kids, Teacher

Favorite book? Winter of Our Discontent by John Steinbeck Favorite movie?Caddyshack Celebrity lookalike? Edward Norton Celebrity dream date?Neve Campbell What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Fall in love in the first place If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Rip my shirt off and run around in a soccer­goal­like celebration

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? I would act like it happened to me all the time, then struggle to come up with something clever to say.People who sign prenuptial agreements are Missing the point. Who are better drivers—men or women? This is a trick question. Men, because I am one. If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Indiana Jones, because I know what it is I am looking for but I don’t know how to find it or where the hell it is. What’s in the trunk of your car?A lacrosse ball that’s been rolling around for a cou­ple of days driving me crazy, some clothes, running shoes, and . . . the spare.

JACQUELINE “J ACQIE ” D. MCWILLIAMS , 33

Single, no kids, Assistant Athletics Director for Internal Operations

Favorite book? Wake of the Wind by J. California CooperFavorite musician or group? Will Downing Favorite movie? Dirty DancingCelebrity lookalike? Some say Nia LongCelebrity dream date? Boris Kodjoe (Soul Food) What job would you like to have for a day? Dance and sing on Broadway

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Sang my favorite love songs on a tape (this was before CDs). If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Tithe what belongs to God.People who sign prenuptial agreements are Not committed.You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? I’d ask “What’s going on with your outfit?” and sug­gest that they change. That’s what friends are for. What’s your favorite way to kill time? Read a bookWho are better drivers, men or women? Depends on the situation. Overall, I hate to say it, but men. What’s in the trunk of your car? Spare tire, first­aid kit, CD changer, umbrella, and a portable lawn chair.What’s your worst quality? Impatience.What’s your best quality? I value relationships.

MICHELLE OWENS , 27

Single, no kids, Assistant State’s Attorney for Baltimore City and part­time Waitress at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Favorite book? Oh the Places You Will Go by Dr. SeussFavorite musician or group? The Beatles Favorite movie? Urban CowboyCelebrity lookalike? Catherine Zeta­JonesCelebrity dream date? John Travolta What job would you like to have for a day? Baltimore City Circuit Court Judge

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Purchased a matching shirt and tennis shoes of my middle school crush. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Pay off my student loans You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? I’d say “I thought you were planning on wearing that cute little dress in your closet.” What’s your favorite way to kill time? Pleasure read in a bookstore What’s your favorite word? PlethoraWho are better drivers, men or women? MenIf you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? There’s Some­thing About Mary What’s your worst quality? I’m not very spontaneous.What’s your best quality? I’m dedicated.

DEAN ANDREW IACOVETTI , 25

Single, no kids, Nightclub Manager

Favorite book? Rich Dad, Poor Dad Favorite musician or group? Linkin ParkFavorite movie? It’s a tossup between Shawshank Redemption, The Usual Suspects, and Face Off Celebrity lookalike?Jamie Walters (Ray Pruitt from Beverly Hills 90210) and a little of Ricky MartinCelebrity dream date? Anna Kournikova What job would you like to have for a day?I would like to be a taste tester at Ben and Jerry’s.

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?Joined the mile high club! People who sign prenuptial agreements are Very smart. Don’t forget, I just graduated from UB Law School.

Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other?Too late (just kidding). Who are better drivers—men or women? Men because they have quicker reaction time.

If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Studio 54What s in the trunk of your car? Car cleaning materials

and golf clubs What’s your worst quality? I am a perfectionistWhat’s your best quality? I am a perfectionist

PAMELA PAULK , 48

Divorced, no kids, Vice President of Human Resources, Johns Hopkins Health System

Favorite book? The latest in the Lucas Davenport (John San­ford) or Dave Robicheaux (James Lee Burke) series.Favorite musician or group? Eric Clapton Favorite movie? MementoCelebrity lookalike? A petite Annette BeningCelebrity dream date? Tom Glavine (pitcher for the Atlanta Braves)

If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? the Dalai Lama, Muhammad Ali, Susan SarandonWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Built a cabin on a lake in the woods completely by hand. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Buy a wonderful work of artPeople who sign prenuptial agreements are The people who won’t lose their cabin in the woods next time (see above).

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? I love my friends no matter what they wear. Now if it’s a girlfriend and the outfit makes her look fat—really fat—I’d suggest we rent a movie and order in. Friends don’t let friends look fat.Who are better drivers, men or women? Women, on a par 3.When is the last time you cried? I cry at almost every movie I see.

PATRICIA PHIPPS , A.K.A PATTI , 60

Divorced; three kids, Amy, 39, Andrew, 33, Nancy, 29; Travel Counselor

Favorite book? Bonfire of the Vanities Favorite musician or group? Chuck BerryFavorite movie? Gone With the WindCelebrity lookalike? Phyllis Diller after her face lift. I wish it were Linda Evans.Celebrity dream date? Sean Connery If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Mel Brooks, George Will, Artie DonovanWhat job would you like to have for a day? Queen of EnglandWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Rode around in the hot sun in a golf cart (more than once).If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Change my phone numberYou’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says: “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? “You talking to me?!”People who sign prenuptial agreements are Smart.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Crossword puzzleWhat’s your favorite word? Eclectic If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? As Good As It Gets

MARY SCANLAN , 41

Divorced, kids: “a few . . . “, U.S. Coordinator, The Baraka School

Favorite book? Catcher in the Rye (I read it every summer!) Favorite musician or group? Fleetwood Mac, Garth Brooks, and I’m also a big fan of O’Malley’s March! Favorite movie? Blues BrothersCelebrity lookalike? Roz on FrazierWhat job would you like to have for a day? Queen, just so I could say “Off with your head!”

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Given birth. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Find a good­looking financial planner. Then it’s off to the Bahamas!People who sign prenuptial agreements are Getting married for the second time.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? No, but I’d con­sider magic marker.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Hope we’re going to her hangout!If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Some Like it HotWhat’s in the trunk of your car? My ex.What’s your worst quality? My incredibly low tolerance for stupidity. Thankfully, I have a sense of humor. What’s your best quality? Probably my ability to be organized in utter chaos, yet remain flexible.

J.P. SHILLING , 30 Single, no kids, Personal Trainer and former Olympic Speed Skater

Favorite book? The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho Favorite musician or group?The Beatles Favorite movie? Forrest Gump Celebrity lookalike? You’ve got me! [editor’s note: Colin Farrell?] Celebrity dream date? Gwen Stefani If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Paul McCartney, Randy Johnson, Fox 45’s Jennifer Gilbert

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?I took a girlfriend to Maui—it was a surprise (that one backfired).If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do?Promise myself to stay who I am (while considering how many square feet my new house will be).

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? Turn around and follow her!What’s your favorite word? Trust Who are better drivers—men or women? Sorry ladies, but you make me want to kill myself when you’re behind the wheel. Too careful, too slow, or not paying attention at all. What’s in the trunk of your car?Crab steamer, rain gear, antifreeze, rolling golf balls What’s your best quality?Love to laugh

MARSHA SAMLAL , 30

Single, no kids, Realtor, Long & Foster

Favorite book? The Old Man and the Sea and Angela’s AshesFavorite musician or group? Groove Armada. Favorite movie? ScarfaceCelebrity lookalike? I don’t think I look like a celebrityCelebrity dream date? Paolo Maldini (Italian football player).If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?Chris Rock, Oprah, and Bono. What job would you like to have for a day? President of the

United States of America Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? Only if I were crazy.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Listen to music and dance. What’s your favorite word? You can’t print it.Who are better drivers, men or women? Men.If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? There’s Some­thing About Mary Do you believe in love at first sight? No What’s in the trunk of your car? A booster pak, washer fluid, Fix­A­Flat, and my folders.What’s your worst quality? I’m easy­going. What’s your best quality? I’m open­minded.

MATTHEW SMITH , 27

Single, no kids, Vice President, Matscot (gifts and novelty items)

Favorite book? Hide and Seek by James Patterson Favorite musician or group? OasisFavorite movie? Victory Celebrity lookalike? Noel from Felicity (Scott Foley)Celebrity dream date? Alyssa Milano If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Pele, Steve Jobs, Dave Matthews

What job would you like to have for a day? President What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? I’ve never been in love. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Charter a plane and fly to Vegas.What’s your favorite way to kill time? Play guitar. What’s your favorite word?“huh?” Who are better drivers—men or women?Men. They’re able to focus on more than one thing at the same time.If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Joe Vs. The VolcanoWhat’s in the trunk of your car? Samples (for work), soccer ball, my XM satellite antenna. What’s your worst quality? Stubbornness. What’s your best quality?I’m a nice guy.

FREDERICK BURKE JR. 36, SINGLE, NO KIDS. EMERGENCY MEDICINE TECHINICIAN.

Favorite book? Days Of Grace by Arthur Ashe Favorite musician or group?Luther Vandross Favorite movie? Remember the Titans Celebrity lookalike?DL Hughley Celebrity dream date? Janet JacksonIf you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?Colin Powell, Oprah Winfrey, and Bill CosbyWhat’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?

I’m too embarrassed to say.

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? It depends on who is saying it. People who sign prenuptial agreements are Cautious.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? LaughWhat’s your favorite way to kill time? Read Who are better drivers—men or women? Neither, it depends on the driver. If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be?

Love Jones What’s your worst quality? I can’t cook. What’s your best quality?My sense of humor

CHAD STEELE , 27

Single, no kids, Media Relations Manager, Baltimore Ravens

Favorite book? Life on the Color Line by Gregory Howard Williams Favorite movie?The Usual Suspects Celebrity lookalike? I have two. Rick Fox of the Lakers or Tony Gonzalez of the Kansas City Chiefs. Celebrity dream date?Vanessa Williams. I guess I would like to be Rick!

If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Jesse Jackson, President Bush, Muhammad Ali.

What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love?After a girlfriend and I decided we needed time apart, I decided I wanted to get back with her. I wrote a poem and went to her house and I played Brian McKnight in the background and recited the poem over and over until she came out. (Yes, it worked!)What’s your favorite word? Plethora Do you believe in love at first sight?Yes I do. It happened with my parents. When is the last time you cried?Three months ago when my niece was born. What’s your worst quality?My friends say I’m too clean. My house has to be spotless. Dishes put away. What’s your best quality? I think I’m a people person. I’ve lived all over the world so I can adapt to many situations. I like talking to all different kinds of people to find out what their lives are about.

KEREM ULKEN , 27

Single, no kids, Graphic Artist, Painter, DJ/Producer

Favorite musician or group? It’s hard to say. I listen to everything. Favorite movie?The Hairdresser’s Husband People who sign prenuptial agreements are Not truly in love. Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other?Nope. Well, maybe after I turn 60. What’s your favorite way to kill time?Make music. What’s your favorite word? Double­dip

Who are better drivers, men or women? No offense, but men. Because driving is purely physical and most women have talents in different areas that men don’t. It’s a perfect balance. If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be?Any movie that had a lot of car crashes in beautiful open fields while the cars are only in second gear. Is this a run­on? Do you believe in love at first sight?Nope. But I do fall in love at first sight. What’s in the trunk of your car? A blanket, an old car stereo, candle holder, design books, flyers, spare tire, old laserdisc movies, extension cord . . . can you solve the riddle? What’s your worst quality? I give up easily when I’m hurt or disappointed by a loved one. What’s your best quality?I get God’s speed when I bond with a loved one.

SHAWN EUGENE STORER , 28

Single, no kids, Assistant Conductor, Baltimore Chamber Orchestra

Favorite book? Dante’s Inferno Favorite musician or group? Baltimore Chamber Orchestra! Favorite movie? Singles, Zoolander, The Red Violin, Eyes Wide ShutCelebrity lookalike? Anthony Edwards Celebrity dream date? Debra Messing If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be?Tori Amos, Anne Rice, Tim Burton What job would you like to have for a day?Music Director, New York Philharmonic (for more than a day) What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? Risked answering these questions honestlyWould you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? Probably not their name, but maybe something they designed

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Hope they are not thinking the same thing about my outfit What’s your favorite way to kill time? Listening to live musicWhat’s your favorite word? Melancholy Do you believe in love at first sight? YesWhat’s your worst quality? Self­conscious What’s your best quality? Willingness to make a fool out of myself despite my worst quality.

MICHAEL STRÜBIN , 35

Single, no kids, Program Manager at a nonprofit foundation

Favorite book? There are so many . . . Garcia Marquez’s Love in the Time of Cholera; I also like Malcolm Lowry’s Under the Volcano Favorite musician or group?Peggy Lee (I am stuck in the 20th Century) Favorite movie? AmadeusCelebrity lookalike? Shrek Celebrity dream date? Rosario Dawson

What job would you like to have for a day? Marc Steiner’sYou’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? Pinch myselfPeople who sign prenuptial agreements are Practical.You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Tease him/her for the rest of the nightWhat’s your favorite way to kill time? Read old issues of the New YorkerWho are better drivers—men or women? The bigger the car, the worse the driver, no matter the sex. If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be?Slacker Do you believe in love at first sight?I believe in chemistry. And if there is none the moment you spot each other across the room, it will not kick in.What’s your worst quality? Stubbornness What’s your best quality?Persistence (which is actually the same, except you win).

NED WALTON , 29

Single, no kids, Recruiter, Spherion Professional Recruiting

Favorite book? John Irving’s A Prayer For Owen Meany (It took me two years to read.)Favorite musician or group? Widespread Panic/Grateful Dead Celebrity lookalike?Pete Sampras Celebrity dream date? Pete Sampras’ wife If you could have dinner with any three living people, who would they be? Bob Dylan, George W. Bush, Hugh Hefner What’s the most extreme thing you’ve ever done in the

name of love? I’ve never been in love (honestly). If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do? Ned Walton = Cadillac ownerWould you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? My buddy Trevor got a tattoo of “Kacy” on his buttocks. Last weekend, he married “Kim.” I would have to say the answer is No.

You pick up your friend for a night on the town and he or she comes to the door in a hideous outfit. What do you do? Run screaming into the night!Who are better drivers—men or women? Women—I could never drive and put makeup on at the same time. If you could compare your dating life to a movie, what would it be? Gone in 60 Seconds Do you believe in love at first sight?I believe in lust at first sight. What’s in the trunk of your car? My last girlfriendWhat’s your worst quality? My back hair What’s your best quality? My personality

GRAHAM WEBER , 24

Single, no kids, Chef, Marriott Waterfront Hotel

Favorite book? The Dictionary, I’m always mispelling stuff.Favorite musician or group? Neil Diamond and ABBA Favorite Movie? Top GunCelebrity dream date? Jessica Biel What job would you like to have for a day?My job. I can honestly say I love my job, the people I work with, and the product we put out.

You’re walking down the street and a member of the opposite sex says, “Hey, nice bod!” What’s your reaction? “Thank you, wanna take it for a ride?!” What is your favorite word? YES. Everyone loves to hear that word in most all applications. If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do?Well if it were a $10 scratch­off, probably nothing, but if it was the Big Kahuna, I would give half to the Christians Children’s Fund and the other half I would use to travel the world over until every last dime was spent! Sorry children, I’m only human. Who are better drivers—men or women? I am a really bad driver. However, I think my gender as a whole are better overall drivers. Men are less likely to get freaked out when something unexpected happens.Would you ever get a tattoo bearing the name of your significant other? As long as it wasn’t something cheesy like a heart. When was the last time I cried?There is no way I am telling you that! What’s in the trunk of your car? It would take less time if you asked what isn’t in the trunk.