Capital Buzz: But do they sell Grey Poupon?

Capital Buzz: But do they sell Grey Poupon?By Thomas Heath, Published: October 3, 2011TIGER 21, the social club for the rich and maybe-famous, has arrived in Washington.With its 180 members worldwide (holding $15 billion in assets), the 12-year-old group’s purpose is togive the wealthy an arena in which to share ideas and experiences – not to mention investment strategies.But is it worth the annual dues of $30,000?The local chapter is run by Cal Simmons, a local investor and entrepreneur with more than $20 million inearly-stage investments spread across three funds.Simmons is a former chair for The D.C. chapter of Young Presidents Organization, and is currently thechairman of the Virginia Tourism Corp.TIGER 21 was founded in 1999 in New York by real estate entrepreneur Michael Sonnenfeldt. Longtime District residentJonathan Kempner (brother of documentary filmmaker Aviva Kempner, creator of “The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg”) runs the national for-profit organization day to day.”Insights from other members into new investments, or even what not to invest in, can be of enormousvalue,” said Kempner in an e-mail, adding “the personal growth and financial benefits of membership faroutweigh the costs.”