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McLean, VA June 2026

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At The Prendergast Team, we know that buying or selling a home is more than a transaction—it’s one of life’s most significant investments, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With deep roots in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C., we combine unmatched local expertise with a personalized, high-touch approach to ensure a seamless experience.

It’s June—Let Summer Begin

They say summer doesn’t officially begin until June 21st, but around here, summer has already arrived. The local pools are open, and yes…the water is still a bit frigid—but the air is warm, the sun is shining, and somehow that makes the first dip feel perfectly “refreshing” anyway.

Even if you’re no longer tied to the school calendar, June still brings a familiar smile. It’s a month of subtle shifts—when routines ease up and days feel a little longer. You see students graduating or wrapping up the school year, marking an ending that can feel bittersweet but also full of promise. And even if homework is long behind you, that sense of closing one chapter and stepping into the carefree spirit of summer is still unmistakable.

Vacation plans may or may not be on the calendar yet, but June has a way of making every day feel like it could be one. Plans seem to happen more spontaneously—an impromptu backyard BBQ, a last-minute outdoor concert, dinner on a patio that stretches a little longer than expected, or simply deciding it’s too beautiful to stay inside for even one more minute. A bike ride through the neighborhood or a late evening walk just feels like it has to happen.

This is the month where the outdoors becomes the destination. And since this is our “Gentlemen’s” issue, maybe that means a long drive with the windows down— and the top down if you’re lucky. The warm breeze rushing in, music turned up just a little too loud, and maybe even a dog sticking its head out the window, ears flying and completely in the moment!

And once again, our community shines in it all. From neighborhood gatherings to local events and everyday moments outside, June is full of opportunities to enjoy where we live and the people we share it with.

It’s that carefree, can’t-help-but-smile feeling of freedom that makes June feel like summer has truly arrived!

Here’s to summer arriving early—and to making the most of every sun-filled moment.

June 2026

PUBLISHER

Suzanne Purdy | suzanne.purdy@citylifestyle.com

MANAGING EDITOR

AJ Jones | aj.jones@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

AJ Jones, Pauli Reep

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Eden Hall, Brittany Dawn Short

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Zach Miller

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

TRAIN SMARTER, FEEL BETTER

GROUP FITNESS CLASSES

ADULT MARTIAL ARTS: HAPKIDO

At Redwood K-Wellness, we take a personalized, nurse-informed approach using advanced therapies sourced from Asia, Europe, and around the world to restore balance at the root. The result is stronger, fuller hair. We also specialize in extension care to support breakage or thinning strands.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The iconic Alfa Romeo "Scudetto" grille makes a bold, classic statement in racing green. 2: Polished chrome meets neo-classic luxury on the side of this striking Excalibur Phaeton. 3: A vibrant blue Triumph Spitfire opens up to reveal its mechanical heart at sunrise. 4: This olive green Volkswagen Beetle shows off its front trunk in pristine vintage condition. 5: Timeless German engineering is on full display with this clean 2002 BMW. 6: Every detail counts. Capturing the golden hour reflections on a meticulously maintained vintage motorcycle. 7: An American icon: this Ford Mustang stands tall with its hood popped for enthusiasts Photography by Eden Hall

Discover What’s Next at German International School Washington D.C.

With over 550 students from preschool to 12th grade, we offer high-level academics in a warm, multicultural setting since 1961. Our German curriculum, combined with a global perspective, leads to a dual diploma graduation: the German International Abitur (DIA) and a high school diploma. Focused on world languages and science, we nurture critical thinking and prepare students for top universities worldwide. Please contact admissions@giswashington.org for your personal campus tour. German language skills are NOT a requirement for students enrolling in Preschool through Grade 5, provided the family is highly motivated for their child to learn German, and the child demonstrates strong academic performance.

business monthly

Elevated Menswear Arrives in McLean

Discover refined menswear at Sassanova McLean, featuring the latest arrivals from the curated Nova Man collection. From tailored sport shirts and lightweight polos to elevated denim, sweaters, and seasonal layers, each piece is selected for modern versatility and effortless sophistication. Designed for workdays, weekends, and everything in between, that brings a polished style to Northern Virginia. Visit the McLean boutique at 6731 Curran St, McLean, VA 22101 or call (703) 3569550. Shop online: https://www.sassanova.com/pages/sassanova-of-mclean

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Advanced Scalp Health for Modern Gentlemen

Redwood offers specialized scalp health treatments designed to restore balance, improve scalp vitality, and support healthier hair growth. Their targeted approach includes deep cleansing, exfoliation, and nourishment to address buildup, dryness, and stress-related concerns. Ideal for the modern gentleman seeking elevated grooming and long-term hair wellness, Redwood provides a restorative, results-driven experience in a calm, professional environment. Learn more:  https://www.redwoodkw.com/, 703-995-0155 110 Pleasant St NW, Vienna, VA 22180

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Year-Round Golf Excellence at The Trillium

Refine your game in style without ever stepping outside. Our state-of-the-art golf simulator offers a precision-driven experience for discerning players of all levels. Enjoy world-renowned courses, real-time swing analytics, and a refined, climate-controlled setting designed for year-round play. Whether perfecting your technique, hosting guests, or unwinding with a round, this is golf reimagined; where performance meets luxury. Available by appointment only. Call 570-249-2045. www. trilliumtysons.com The Trillium | Sophisticated Senior Living in Tysons, VA

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Creating a HOME

Designing award-winning and best-selling homes for over twenty years, James McDonald Associate Architects’ goal is to create a custom home made for you, helping to make the realization that your dream home is only an ask away.

Brooksfield School in McLean, Virginia offers a warm, Montessori-inspired environment where children develop confidence, creativity, and a love of learning. Rooted in community, the arts, and nature, Brooksfield fosters meaningful connections and joyful exploration every day.

Schedule a tour of our BRAND NEW CAMPUS and meet our dedicated team.

1724 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean, Virginia 22101

703-356-5437

www.brooksfieldschool.org brksfield@aol.com

Drinkable Light Therapy is Here! LifeWave X2O is a countertop, dual filter device which also infuses the water with hydrogen and light. Stimulate and promote general wellness with this new water system invented by an American scientist.

LIFTING SPIRITS:

Walk through the quiet, clinical corridors of Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and you might expect to find a focus solely on modern surgeries and rigorous physical therapy. However, back in 2007, a single observed moment revealed that the most potent medicine often arrives not in a vial, but through a doorway. When Sarah Wingfield watched the heavy, disinterested silence of a recovering soldier named Luke transform into a vibrant surge of joy the second his mother entered the room, a profound realization took flight. It became clear that while physical wounds are treated by experts, the emotional landscape of recovery requires a distinct kind of intervention. This electric shift in spirit sparked the founding of Luke’s Wings; an organization built on the unwavering conviction that families are never merely spectators in the healing process: they are the very heartbeat of it. By bridging the distance between hospital beds and home, this mission ensures that the journey toward wellness is a shared experience filled with hope.

BRIDGING THE FINANCIAL GAP

The necessity for such a bridge became apparent when founders Sarah Wingfield and Fletcher Gill discovered a startling gap in support. While the government might provide a few initial flights for loved ones, families are often left financially responsible for transportation throughout months or even years of rehabilitation. Since 2008, Luke’s Wings has stepped in to provide complimentary airfare and emergency travel coordination for wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and first responders alike. This mission is profoundly inclusive, serving the men and women who wear the uniform of our military as well as the dedicated police officers who protect our local communities. Whether it is a service member recovering from a foreign deployment or a police officer injured in the line of duty, the organization ensures no hero has to heal alone. As Gill notes, this support is vital because “having loved ones nearby provides a sense of normalcy and encouragement that can reduce feelings of isolation and foster the resilience needed for a complete recovery.”

THE SOARING MISSION OF LUKE’S WINGS
A majestic bald eagle stands proudly with its handler, symbolizing the soaring spirit of freedom.

PRECISION AND PURPOSE

The success of this soaring mission is due in large part to the unique leadership of Gill, who launched both Luke’s Wings and his commercial real estate firm, The Genau Group, on the same day in 2008. Bringing a decade of experience as an auditor and business consultant for firms like Deloitte and PwC, Gill applied a rigorous framework of internal controls and long-term strategy to the nonprofit world. He sees a clear parallel between his two professional worlds. In his real estate practice, he acts as a loyal fiduciary for commercial tenants, handling their complex negotiations so they can focus on their business. At Luke’s Wings, his team applies that same focus to beneficiaries, managing every logistical detail of travel so that injured men and women can focus entirely on their recovery and their loved ones.

EXCELLENCE IN MOTION

Professional precision allows Luke’s Wings to operate with incredible speed and scale. What began as a volunteer effort providing 19 flights in its first year has grown into a national powerhouse that now books 19 flights every few weeks. Because medical crises do not wait for business hours, the organization provides emergency assistance 24/7, often securing flights the same evening a request is made. This efficiency has allowed them to provide nearly 20,000 tickets across all 50 states and internationally, ensuring that distance never dictates the quality of a hero’s emotional support. Gill emphasizes that the organization’s strength lies in its specialized focus: “By taking on the logistical and financial responsibility of travel, we allow the family to focus entirely on being present for their Hero’s recovery.”

UNITING FAMILIES ACROSS GENERATIONS

The true heart of the organization is found in the diverse stories of those they serve. In 2025, Luke’s Wings honored the remarkable legacy of Beatrice C., a 103-year-old World War II veteran. By flying her granddaughter and twin great-grandchildren to her bedside in Virginia, they ensured that four generations of women could share a holiday season together. For Staff Sergeant John S., who was injured during a mission in Jordan, the organization provided the joy of being reunited with his wife and two young children for Thanksgiving and Christmas after more than two years apart.

HONORING OUR LOCAL GUARDIANS

The mission is equally vital for our first responders and local heroes. By including police families and members in their mission, Luke’s Wings acknowledges that the stress and injuries faced by law enforcement officers require the same level of family connection to foster resilience. Whether it is a spouse rushing to the side of a partner after a critical incident or a mother flying to support her daughter during a long hospital stay, these reunions transform a medical crisis into a shared journey of healing. The organization’s work with veterans like Sergeant Franz W., whose mother was flown in to witness his first steps with a prosthetic, or Staff Sergeant Jesse C., whose daughters were flown in for a Christmas reunion after years of surgeries, highlights a lifetime commitment to those who serve.

A vintage military aircraft rests on the tarmac under a breathtaking, fiery orange sunset sky.
Medals of honor adorn the wall, marking a dedicated space for profound soldier recognition and respect.
High above the clouds, every flight shortens the distance between a hero and their family.
“THE FUTURE IS
Luke's Wings CEO and Co-Founder Fletcher Gill combines strategic leadership with a passion for reuniting military families.

A BOLD VISION FOR TOMORROW

Looking toward the next chapter, Luke’s Wings continues to reimagine how compassion can scale. In 2026, the team has set an ambitious goal of providing 2,000 flights to service members and their loved ones. They are also focused on raising three million dollars to support those affected by Operation Epic Fury, ensuring that no service member faces the road to recovery without their primary support system. “The future is about expanding hope, preserving connection, and finding new ways to honor the sacrifices of those who serve and who have served,” Gill explains.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT OF CONNECTION

As Gill approaches his fiftieth year, his motivation remains anchored in the very same proximity he provides for others. Between navigating high-level real estate deals and directing a national nonprofit, he returns home to the joyful chaos of a supportive wife and three young children. It is a full life, fueled by the belief that every hero deserves to feel seen and supported. By scaling compassion through strategic partnerships and storytelling, Luke’s Wings is not just solving a logistical hurdle; it is building a legacy of connection that will serve military families for generations to come. For Gill, the ultimate reward is found in the ripple effects of a single flight: a father’s return, a mother’s relief, and the enduring strength of a family reunited.

Bright floral arrangements bloom from a military boot in Freedom Hall, representing the beautiful growth found in healing.
Rows of vibrant American flags stand in salute, honoring the brave men and women serving.

sitting room and luxurious Primary Bathroom. Walk-out lower level with flex space, full bath, and recreation room. Fantastic, flat back yard, deck & screened in porch for outdoor entertaining.

Estate Planning Seminars

Dulany Washington, Director of Fitness & Nutrition, brings expert coaching and specialized performance enhancement to the Meno·Start team.

a Thoughtful Partnership STRENGTH, LONGEVITY, AND

in Women’s Health

Director Dulany Washington provides personalized, one-on-one fitness guidance, ensuring every client reaches their health and nutrition goals safely.

ARTICLE BY AJ JONES | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY MENO-START

Throughout the elegant neighborhoods of Northern Virginia, the vibrant energy of high-pressure roles and family commitments can frequently eclipse the fundamental necessity of physical well-being. In a culture defined by its tireless dedication to others, the essential act of investing in our own strength is often the first thing to be sacrificed in the rush of a busy schedule. Dulany Washington, a Certified Personal Trainer and Performance Enhancement Specialist, understands this friction better than most. After navigating the rigors of corporate America for two decades, Washington chose to pivot, trading boardrooms for a career where he could help others achieve a healthy way of life.

Having spent his entire life immersed in sports and fitness, his mission is now focused on helping the local community move better and age with the kind of confidence that only comes from a foundation of functional strength. While coaching many local families, he has observed a common trend where residents are so busy tending to work and others that they forget to invest in their own well-being. Washington observes that while it may seem selfish, the best way to help those around you is to take care of yourself first. This perspective was refined by a deeply personal coaching experience: training his wife. By learning to listen more closely and treat her as a client rather than a spouse, he helped her lose 100 pounds, a journey that taught him the power of patience and strategic empathy.

THE GENESIS OF A MEDICAL MOVEMENT

The narrative of Washington’s current work is inseparable from his collaboration with Dr. Shannon J. Cothran, M.D., FACOG. Their partnership was forged over a decade while Dr. Cothran was Washington’s client, a period marked by deep discussions regarding the shortcomings of the modern health industry. They shared a vision for a program that prioritized the member over revenue, leading to the creation of Meno-Start.

This collaboration bridges the gap between clinical medicine and physical performance. By sharing an office, they collaborate on holistic approaches that consider lifestyle, medical analysis, and the mental, emotional, and physical health of each member. For Washington, entering the menopause space as a male coach has been an enlightening journey. He credits Dr. Cothran with reshaping his perspective, noting her sincere desire to help and her refusal to accept a status quo that often leaves women’s health misunderstood and misinformed.

CONTINUED >

Founder Dr. Shannon J. Cothran and Director Dulany Washington partner to provide comprehensive, integrated menopause wellness and fitness care.

REDEFINING MIDLIFE VITALITY

Washington’s insights extend beyond a single demographic, touching on universal truths about aging. He points out that muscle mass and testosterone levels begin a significant decline for both men and women after the age of 40. For women, weight-bearing exercise becomes a critical tool to offset the risk of osteoporosis following menopause.

For men, Washington advocates for a shift in mindset, suggesting that training like one did in their 20s or 30s can lead to unnecessary injuries and setbacks. He emphasizes a transition from focusing solely on how much one can lift to embracing slower, progressive movements.

“Investing in yourself might feel selfish, yet the best way to support others is prioritizing your health so your one body lasts a lifetime”.

SUSTAINABLE RHYTHMS FOR MODERN LIVING

While the modern wellness landscape is frequently cluttered with conflicting trends and overly complex protocols, Washington advocates for a return to sustainable simplicity. He recognizes that many people feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of health advice available today. To cut through the noise, he encourages his clients to adopt realistic habits that prioritize consistency over perfection.

Central to his philosophy is the traditional wisdom of eating like a king at breakfast, like a prince at lunch, and like a pauper for dinner. Washington notes that many people do this in reverse because they are

HIGH-IMPACT ADJUSTMENTS:

• Prioritize Protein: Aim for at least one gram per pound of body weight to support muscle building.

• Functional Movement: Focus on the “big three” of strength, mobility, and recovery, utilizing natural patterns like squats and lunges.

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, ideally half your body weight in ounces.

• Consistency: Engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise three times per week.

Dr. Shannon J. Cothran and Dulany Washington welcome clients to Meno·Start, where medical expertise meets professional fitness coaching.

Director Dulany Washington provides personalized, one-on-one fitness guidance, ensuring every client reaches their health and nutrition goals safely.

“Investing in yourself might feel selfish, yet the best way to support others is prioritizing your health so your one body lasts a lifetime.”

rushing through their day, which can hinder their health goals. In a region like Northern Virginia where sleep deprivation is at an all-time high, he believes one of the most radical acts of health is simply putting the phone down and getting to bed by 10 PM.

A LEGACY OF EMPOWERMENT

At its core, Washington’s work is about building a community where health transitions are not navigated in silence. Meno-Start provides a sympathetic space where clients realize they are not alone in their experiences. Washington finds inspiration in seeing women discover they are mentally and physically stronger than they previously believed. He believes that the stronger each part of the whole person is, the more likely you are to succeed and achieve your goals.

He views health as a three-legged stool consisting of mind, body, and spirit; each part must be strong for the stool to stand. By shifting the focus from short-term fixes to long-term sustainability, Washington helps his clients achieve a higher quality of life. As he looks to the future, he is particularly excited about educating the younger generation to take charge of their health now, ensuring they can lead vibrant lives for years to come. Ultimately, he finds deep joy in helping people live their best lives possible.

BEYOND THE FRAME

In the center of downtown Falls Church, tucked within the elegant brick facade of The Kensington Building, lies a sanctuary where the soul of the city truly sings. Falls Church Arts is far more than a non-profit gallery. It is a vibrant cultural hub that has transformed the local landscape over the last two decades. To step into this space at 700-B West Broad Street is to witness a community in full bloom, a place where the visual arts serve as the essential thread connecting neighbors and generations.

“Put out to Pasture,” by Jon Milstein

The story of Falls Church Arts is one of remarkable evolution. It began in 2003 with a small group of visual arts aficionados gathering around a kitchen table at the local Community Center. Joe Wetzel, a co-founder and the current President of the organization, recalls those early days with a mix of nostalgia and pride. The group initially sought to find a permanent home within a proposed city-center development that never materialized.

Undeterred, the organization spent years as a nomadic collective. Wetzel describes the early years with a smile, noting they were transients who activated empty storefronts and shared spaces with local businesses like Don Beyer Volvo and the Creative Cauldron theater. It was not until 2017 that they finally secured their current gallery space in the lower level of The Kensington. This permanent home has allowed their mission to flourish, ensuring the arts remain an essential part of the city’s cultural environment.

What sets Falls Church Arts apart is its refreshing lack of pretension.

Wetzel is particularly proud of the “anti-snooty environment” they have fostered. While the visual arts world can sometimes feel exclusionary, this gallery is designed to be welcoming at every level. Whether you are a casual passerby enjoying the view or a dedicated artist seeking feedback, the atmosphere is one of warmth and encouragement. This openness is maintained through a commitment to rotating curators and judges, ensuring “fresh eyes” are always viewing new submissions and preventing any sense of a closed clique.

The lifeblood of the organization is its dedicated brigade of volunteers. With a membership nearing 300 individuals, approximately 75 people are actively contributing their time and energy at any given moment. This spread of enthusiasm allows for meticulous planning that makes ambitious

schedules look effortless to the public. As volunteer Holly Myles notes while staffing the gallery desk, it is a joy to see the people who come in and to contribute to such a vital community resource.

The impact of Falls Church Arts extends far beyond its physical boundaries. Their outreach efforts include the annual Plein Air Festival, which draws painters from across the region, and the beloved Halloween Window Painting tradition. They also recently established a scholarship fund to support high school seniors pursuing the visual arts in higher education, letting these young creators know their dreams are truly seen.

As a commercial real estate developer, Wetzel understands that a thriving arts scene is essential for a vibrant business community. He believes that intellectual creativity draws people to a city, making it a place where families want to feel “exhilarated”. In the heart of The Little City, Falls Church Arts remains the “cream in your coffee,” making the hard work of everyday life truly worthwhile. This enduring dedication ensures that every resident has a place to revel in the transformative power of shared human expression, proving that art is not just a luxury, but the very heartbeat of a connected and flourishing society.

“Top,” by Laura Tiller
“Road Trip,” by Russ Mardon
“Thomas Point,” by Suzanne Updike

AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short

Creative Director: Jen Birn

Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill

Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX

MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.

After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.

Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?

A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”

THE QUIET STANDARD:

MIKE JOHNSON

“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson

Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?

A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”

Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?

A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”

This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.

MIKE JOHNSON

RO A D CHOW

A FUN AND CREATIVE TRAVEL SNACK GUARANTEED TO SATISFY EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY.

Planning to load up the family truckster and head out on an adventure? This easy-to-pack and satisfying snack is a great way to keep growling tummies quiet while you’re behind the wheel. Grab the kids, prepare it together, and try not to eat them all before you hit the road!

DIRECTIONS:

1/ Preheat oven to 325°F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups quick oats

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 cup peanut butter

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/3 cup apple butter

• 1 large banana, mashed (1/2 cup)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup pepitas

• 1/2 cup raisins

2/ Combine all the ingredients into a large bowl of a stand mixer (or hand mixer). Mix until all the ingredients are combined and the dough is thick and heavy.

3/ Portion 1/4 cup mounds of cookie dough onto prepared cookie sheets. Use the back of a spoon to slightly flatten out into a cookie shape. (The cookies will not spread in the oven.)

4/ Bake for 16-18 minutes or until the edges are slightly brown. Cool cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool.

5/ Cover leftover cookies and store at room temperature for up to 5 days or 10 days in the fridge.

PICKLE-BRINED CHICKEN WINGS SOAR TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH ALABAMA WHITE SAUCE.

Pickle In A

I’ve spent years searching for the perfect wing flavor, never quite satisfied, until I heard a podcast suggestion: brining chicken wings in pickle juice. It sounded strange at first, but it yields incredibly tender and flavorful wings! Since then, I save pickle juice from every jar I buy just to recreate these beloved wings. If I run out of pickle juice, olive juice works too. I air fry mine, but if you don’t have an air fryer, cook them as you normally would. Don’t forget to toss them in a buttery dill sauce and try the Alabama white BBQ sauce for an extra layer of goodness!

Pickle Juice Brined Wings

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drummettes)

• Pickle juice - enough to cover wings

• 1 – 2 teaspoons garlic salt

• ¼ teaspoon pepper

• 6 tablespoons butter

• A few dashes of hot sauce

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place chicken wings in a non-reactive container and pour pickle juice over chicken wings until completely covered.

2. Place it in the fridge and let it marinate, covered, for at least 8 hours.

3. Drain wings, discard pickle juice, and completely pat wings dry.

4. Put dried wings in a bowl and sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. Mix well.

5. Place wings in an air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd. Cook at 400 degrees for 28 minutes, turning every 8 minutes until crispy. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in the oven for 35 - 40 minutes at 400 degrees, flipping halfway through.

6. Melt the butter and add a few splashes of hot sauce of your choice and mix in a bowl. Add wings and completely cover with butter mixture. Sprinkle with fresh dill and toss a few times, and serve with my white barbeque sauce.

Alabama White BBQ Sauce

INGREDIENTS

• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s)

• ¼ cup water

• ¼ cup white wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon pepper, coarsely ground

• 1 tablespoon Creole mustard

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish

INSTRUCTIONS

Whisk all ingredients together until blended. Dip your pickle juice-brined wings in this sauce and taste the joy!  Store in the refrigerator for 1 - 2 weeks.

JUNE 2026

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

JUNE 3RD

Prime Another Day: 5th Annual GovCon Networking

1676 International Drive, McLean, VA 22102 | 6:00 PM

Designed specifically for the government contracting community in the Tysons corridor, this event brings together system integrators and tech entrepreneurs. It’s a targeted opportunity to meet potential teammates and industry leaders in a casual setting with high-end refreshments.

JUNE 5TH

Special Love 2026 Golf Tournament

Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, 134 Golf Club Circle, Front Royal, VA 22630 | 9:00 AM

While a short drive from the immediate McLean area, this tournament is a staple for local professionals looking for a high-end day on the links. It includes a full breakfast, an awards luncheon, and competitive play on a championship course, all supporting a charitable cause.

JUNE 6TH

The Arc of Northern Virginia Annual Team Challenge 5K Race

Burke Lake Park, 7315 Ox Rd, Fairfax Station, VA 22039 | 8:30 AM

Join The Arc of Northern Virginia’s Team Challenge to support the IDD community. This 40-year tradition features a team-based 5K race and an inclusive 2K walk/roll for all abilities. Gather your colleagues or family to enjoy a day of competition and purpose while funding vital advocacy and programs. Register now to go the distance for a great cause! https://thearcofnova.org/team-challenge/

JUNE 6TH

George Washington Whiskey Tasting

George Washington's Mount Vernon, 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA 22121

This exclusive event allows guests to sample whiskies produced at Washington's reconstructed distillery. It offers a rare, high-end look at 18th-century industrial life followed by a sunset view of the Potomac.

JUNE 6TH

Under 7 Family Day at the Farm

Frying Pan Farm, 2739 West Ox Rd, Herndon, VA 20171 | 5:30 PM

A curated outdoor event designed specifically for families with young children. Expect educational farm interactions in a relaxed, scenic environment.

JUNE 10TH

LifeWave Light Therapy for a Better You

1st Floor Conference Room, Mason Enterprise Center, 10300 Eaton Place, Fairfax, VA | 6:30 PM

Wearable light therapy patches are a new way of promoting better health and wellness. Using only your body heat and light, the X39 patch produces pain relief, more energy and deeper more restorative sleep. Come learn more at this informative talk. Register to attend with Kimberly at 703-675-5557. Mason Enterprise Center 10300 Eaton Place, Fairfax, 1st Floor Conference Room

Healthy Breathing. Proper Growth. Better Sleep.

JUNE 13TH

Smoke & Stitch: Cigar and Bourbon Experience

Morton's The Steakhouse, Washington, DC | 4:00 PM

An upscale late-afternoon event for aficionados of fine spirits and premium cigars. Held at the iconic steakhouse, this gathering pairs curated bourbon flights with hand-rolled cigars in a sophisticated, lounge-style atmosphere.

JUNE 14TH

"Let The Music Dance" – Washington Balalaika Society

Capital One Hall, 7750 Capital One Tower Rd, Tysons, VA 22102 | 3:00 PM

A grand performance at Northern Virginia’s newest premier arts venue. This is an upscale musical event suitable for families and classical music enthusiasts.

JUNE 20TH

Shenandoah Summer Wine & Music Festival

Star in the Valley Winery, 33 Amos Ln, Strasburg, VA 22657 | 12:00 PM

Enjoy a refined afternoon tasting 16 different regional wines while taking in panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley. It's a popular choice for singles and groups looking for a sophisticated getaway from the Tysons/McLean bustle.

JUNE 21ST

51st Sully Antique Car Show

Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151

This is one of the region’s largest and most established car shows, featuring nearly 400 classic and antique vehicles.It’s an ideal Father’s Day outing for those who appreciate automotive history, with specialized displays including a "Century Class" of 100-year-old cars.

JUNE 24TH

Melissa Etheridge and Wynonna Judd at Wolf Trap National Park

Wolf Trap National Park, 1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182

This dual-headliner concert is a highlight of the summer season, perfect for fans of soulful rock and country. For an upscale experience, reserve a private box or dine at the on-site Ovations restaurant before the show.

JUNE 26TH

Riverdance 30th Anniversary Tour

Wolf Trap National Park, 1551 Trap Rd, Vienna, VA 22182

A classic family-friendly choice, this high-energy production celebrates three decades of Irish dance. The covered pavilion seating offers the best views and comfort for an evening of world-class choreography. June 26–28, 2026

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THE CENTER OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Chesterbrook Shopping Center is McLean’s neighborhood destination for dining, style, wellness, and everyday essentials, featuring Sweetgreen, RTR Pilates, Apricot Lane, Sorn ai, Bluemercury, SkinSpirit, Sassanova, Kosmo Nail Bar, and many more.

LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF OLD DOMINION DRIVE AND CHESTERBROOK ROAD IN MCLEAN

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McLean, VA June 2026 by City Lifestyle - Issuu