COVER PHOTO BY MYRTLE
© Best Version Media
© Best Version Media
PUBLICATION TEAM
Publisher: Gloria Fonseca
Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas
Account Executive: Crissy Moore Hall
Designer: Hannah Argall
Contributing Writer: Sofia Roman
Social Media Administrator: Andrea Simon
Photographer: Myrtle Roy
Contact:
Have
DEAR GREAT FALLS FRIENDS,
I'm beyond thrilled to finally introduce myself, Gloria, as the publisher of Great Falls Living Magazine! This labor of love is born from my passion to connect us all, to share stories, and to celebrate the beauty of your community.
After falling head over heels in love with McLean through my work on McLean Living, I was a bit nervous about expanding to Great Falls. Would you welcome me with open arms? Oh, how I've been blown away by your warmth!
Meeting the incredible women on our cover and their friends has left me enchanted. Your kindness, diversity, and zest for life have captured my heart. Our magazine is your magazine. We want to:
- Share your stories, passions, and triumphs
- Showcase local businesses and help them flourish
- Capture the magic of community events
- Feature your adorable pets!
Send us your ideas, photos, and tales: gbruni@bestversionmedia.com. We can't wait to share them!
Thank you for embracing Great Falls Living Magazine. I'm honored to be part of your journey.
Warm hugs,
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 888-929-8188 | groundguys.com
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Dr. Rishita Jaju | Smile Wonders 571-350-3663 | smilewonders.com
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The Private Equity Bubble: An In-Depth Look at Acquisitions of Small Businesses
BY ERIKA BAEZ-GRIMES Transworld Business Advisors Certified Mergers & Acquisitions Professional | Business Broker
Private equity firms have been around since the 1940’s, but in recent years, the private equity (PE) landscape has exploded, with firms eager to acquire small businesses across various sectors. This surge has led to what many experts are calling a private equity bubble. As these investment groups seek growth opportunities, they are increasingly turning their attention to small companies, raising questions about the implications for entrepreneurs and the broader economy. In 2022 alone, private equity firms invested nearly $300 billion in small and midsized enterprises (SMEs), reflecting a strategic pivot towards companies with growth potential that can be scaled rapidly. Business owners are seeing more and more (PE) groups encroach into their communities and want to know about the pros & cons of selling to a (PE) firm.
SOME PROS OF SELLING TO PRIVATE EQUITY
Access to Capital: One of the primary benefits for business owners considering a sale to a PE firm is the influx of capital. This funding can facilitate expansion, technological upgrades, and workforce development, ensuring that the company is positioned for growth.
Operational Expertise: Many private equity firms bring in seasoned management teams with a wealth of experience. This expertise can lead to improved operational e iciencies, better strategic planning, and enhanced overall performance.
Exit Strategy: For many entrepreneurs, selling to a PE firm represents a clear exit strategy. It allows owners to monetize years of hard work while transferring the company to a group that has the resources to navigate its next phase.
CONS OF SELLING TO PRIVATE EQUITY
Loss of Control: Selling to a private equity firm often means relinquishing control over business decisions. For many entrepreneurs, this can be a di icult transition, as they may no longer steer the company’s strategic direction.
Short-Term Focus: While PE firms may promise long-term growth, their ultimate goal is a profitable exit, which can lead to a focus on short-term gains. This may result in cost-cutting measures, layo s,
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or the divestment of certain assets that could be detrimental to the company’s long-term health.
Cultural Misalignment: The integration of a small business into a larger private equity portfolio can lead to cultural clashes. Employees may find themselves in an environment that prioritizes financial metrics over company culture, leading to decreased morale and retention challenges.
Selling a small business to a private equity group presents both significant opportunities and considerable risks. For entrepreneurs, the decision should be made with careful consideration of their long-term vision and the potential impact on their employees and company culture. As the private equity landscape evolves, it remains crucial for business owners to navigate this complex environment with a clear understanding of what such a sale entails, ensuring that their legacy is preserved amid the pursuit of profit. Its important to team up with the right Business Broker to help understand the process and choose the PE group that’s most aligned with your Life’s Work.
To connect with our partner Business Broker | M&A Advisor and discuss selling options, please visit: www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com
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PHILANTHROPY AT THE HEART OF COMMUNITY SPIRIT
While the club is deeply rooted in fostering connections among its members, it also plays a vital role in supporting philanthropic e orts. A key focus is the WCGF Scholarship Fund, which provides financial support to deserving students in Northern Virginia. In the 2023-2024 school year alone, the club awarded scholarships to 16 George Mason University students, along with three endowed scholarships. These scholarships are a testament to the club’s commitment to helping students achieve their educational goals in a financially responsible manner.
By SOFIA ROMAN | Photos by MYRTLE ROY
In this inaugural issue of Great Falls Living, we’re excited to highlight an organization that stands at the heart of our community: The Women’s Club of Great Falls. Through their unwavering support, strong friendships, and commitment to giving back, the women of this club embody the spirit of togetherness that makes Great Falls so special. As you read on, you’ll discover more about their remarkable e orts and may even feel inspired to join—after all, they warmly welcome every new member.
For over four decades, the Women’s Club of Great Falls (WCGF) has been at the heart of this vibrant community. What began as two separate organizations—The Great Falls Woman’s Club (founded in 1980) and Newcomers of Great Falls (founded in 1982)—merged in 2011 to create a unified club that today boasts over 300 active members. The fusion of these two groups brought together the best of both worlds, combining unique strengths and shared values into one powerful organization that supports its members and is also a respected, integral part of the Great Falls community.
UNITING WOMEN THROUGH FRIENDSHIP AND FUN
At its core, the Women’s Club of Great Falls is about connection— connecting women to one another and to the local community. The club’s mission is to establish a welcoming atmosphere where new and current members can form friendships, build relationships, and make a di erence through social, cultural, civic, and philanthropic activities. Whether it’s a wine tasting, a tea party, or a themed cocktail event, members come together to share passions and make lasting memories.
Popular interest groups such as Girls’ Night Out, Momtourage (for moms with young children), book clubs, and even bridge games ensure that there’s something for everyone. The club’s welcoming spirit means that members, from 30 to 85 years old, can always find their tribe within this diverse and dynamic community.
The philanthropic spirit of the club doesn’t stop there. Members have raised funds and provided services for various organizations in the area, especially those dedicated to women and children in need. On a civic level, the Women’s Club is also a proud supporter of Celebrate Great Falls and the Grange Foundation. From sponsoring the Little Patriot Parade on Independence Day to the annual Spooktacular and the Celebration of Lights during the holidays, the Women’s Club plays an integral role in bringing the community together to preserve the small-town charm and spirit of Great Falls.
The Great Falls Grange, a historic site in the community, is also a cause close to the heart of the Women’s Club. As a founding sponsor of the Grange Foundation, the club is dedicated to maintaining and improving the historical buildings that have long served as the centerpiece of Great Falls’ community life.
A TRADITION OF CONNECTION AND GROWTH
Throughout the years, the Women’s Club has continued to evolve, yet it remains focused on its mission to welcome women from all walks of life, whether new to the area or long-time residents.
One of the things that makes the club truly special is its ability to connect women who might not have otherwise crossed paths, forming bonds that go beyond social gatherings. Whether it’s supporting one another through di icult times with meal trains and other services or simply enjoying a shared activity, members of the Women’s Club are there for each other in ways big and small.
As the club looks to the future, its goals remain ambitious. New events and initiatives are always on the horizon, and the leadership team is committed to ensuring that the calendar is packed with opportunities for members to engage and connect. From luncheons to themed gatherings, and interest groups that reflect members' passions, there’s always something happening at the Women’s Club of Great Falls.
For those considering joining, the message is simple: The Women’s Club of Great Falls has something for everyone, and the only requirement is a membership fee. Beyond that, how much you engage is entirely up to you. But be warned—it’s hard not to get swept up in the fun and community spirit!
© Best Version Media
CORY CLARKE
President Cory Clarke is a long-term member of the Women's Club of Great Falls and its predecessor club, Great Falls Newcomers. She currently serves as its President. Cory is active in the community and has served on numerous Boards and Co-Chaired several fundraising events for local not for profits. After leaving the “fun-filled” world of Wall Street and Public Policy, she is living her best life. She returned to school to pursue her passion—interior design! A couple of years ago, she started her own business, Cory Clarke Designs. When she is not designing cool spaces, you can find her doing her own projects, attempting to manage her posse of small crazy pups, or hanging with her husband, Kevin. Sometimes even her kids, Shannon and Brendan, come back home to complete the madness.
We would like to thank Nadia Khan Estates for bringing you this month’s cover story.
© Best Version Media
LISETTE KVORTEK
Secretary
Developing Others Through Inspired Leadership
With an impressive career in the federal government spanning over two decades, Lisette Kvortek is deeply committed to serving the public good and upholding the Constitution above all else as a civil servant. She is passionate about authentic leadership and its ability to inspire greatness and innovation. She strongly believes in the proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." Her impeccable character, passion for innovation, and ability to connect with others at a personal level, have elevated her standing within her organization. Outside of her professional life, Lisette is actively involved in church, the Great Falls community, her daughter's equestrian association, and her son's Boy Scouts of America development. Together with her husband, Steve, they cherish a close-knit family unit and strive to instill positive values, leadership qualities, and a religious foundation for their two children.
JANE MURCHISON
Treasurer
Jane Murchison is one of the newer members of the Women's Club of Great Falls having moved to Great Falls in March 2020, just as the pandemic started. As the world opened back up, she was looking for a way to become involved in her new community and the Women's Club was a perfect fit. While living in California for 20 years, Jane joined a Food Tech startup in 2012. She continues to enjoy her role as Customer Enablement Manager at EAT ClubCompass Group USA. Jane spent years volunteering and serving on boards in the schools and activities in which her children participated. Her three children are all now grown but family is still a priority for her and her husband, Rod. They don't have a completely empty nest though as they just added a golden retriever puppy to the family.
RUTH SMYERS
Parliamentarian
Ruth Smyers is a practicing energy law attorney and shareholder at a preeminent boutique firm in Washington, D.C. Ruth lives in Great Falls with the love of her life, Steve Smyers, and their three beautiful children, where she is an active member of the community. Ruth served on the board of the Women's Club of Great Falls since 2020. In addition to her service in the Women's Club, Ruth is chair of the board for Great Falls United Methodist Preschool, the oldest preschool in Great Falls. When Ruth is not volunteering or shuttling her children to their activities, she enjoys laughing with her very supportive husband and children, and spending quality time with her beloved, obstinate Great Pyrenees and the family's rotund Ragdolls.
© Best Version Media
GRACE MCDANIEL
Vice President of Philanthropy Grace, a lifelong resident of Northern Virginia, has always had a passion for helping others. After attending the University of South Carolina (Go Gamecocks!), she returned to the area, where she met her husband, Michael. In 2020, they moved to Great Falls, and by 2021, Grace had joined the Women's Club. She quickly became involved with the philanthropy committee, which organizes events to support local charities, particularly those focused on women and children. This year, Grace stepped into a board position, continuing her commitment to giving back. Professionally, she works at Amazon's HQ2 in Arlington, and in her free time, you'll find her cheering on her two boys, ages 12 and 8, at their baseball games, playing tennis, entertaining friends, or relaxing at the beach.
JENNIFER JO
Vice President of Hospitality
Jennifer is a native Californian who crossed the country to attend law school in DC at the Washington College of Law nearly 30 years ago. After serving for 15 years as an attorney with the Department of State, Jennifer made the pivot to real estate. In 2020, Jennifer's family—her husband, son (now 16), and three dogs—decided to make Great Falls their permanent home. She joined the Women's Club in 2021 and shortly thereafter served as editor of the Club's monthly newsletter. In 2022, she joined the Women's Club Board as Hospitality Chair. In this role, Jennifer plans the Club's Kickoff Luncheon, Holiday Party, and End of Year Luncheon. She also provides support to the many all-club events held throughout the year, including the monthly meetings, new member receptions, and cocktail parties. And she hosts a coffee on the 4th Wednesday of the month for Women's Club members held at Katie's Coffee. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, volunteering, long walks in nature, and great conversation.
BAMBI LANDEW
Executive Vice President
From a young age, Bambi Landew had a deep love for food and cooking, so it's no surprise that her passion for wine soon followed. After a successful career in IT and raising three sons, Ms. Landew shifted her focus to community service, wine education, and dining at some of the world's finest Michelin-starred restaurants. Today, she continues to give back while traveling the globe with her husband, savoring great food and exceptional wines.
MEGAN RHATIGAN
Vice President of Programs
Meghan Rhatigan is the Vice President of Programs for the Great Falls Women's Club, where she oversees and plans the club's monthly meetings. Alongside her role on the board, she is a Human Resources executive specializing in Talent Acquisition at Marriott International. Meghan lives in Great Falls Virginia with her husband, Bobby, and their two sons, Colton (10) and Braden (8). She enjoys outdoor activities, especially with a glass of wine in hand, traveling whenever possible, and spending quality time with her family, friends, and French bulldog, Rhone.
© Best Version Media
LINDSAY HARPER
Vice President of Scholarship Funds Liaison
Lindsay moved back to Northern Virginia in 2021 and quickly became involved in her community by joining The Women's Club. She has found her passion as a member of the Scholarship Fund, where she helps make a difference in the lives of local college students. Growing up in the area and graduating from James Madison University, Lindsay's career in PR and events has included work with notable organizations such as NASA, Whole Foods Market, national laboratories, and education-based nonprofits.
In addition to her role with The Women's Club, Lindsay is actively involved in the community as the VP of Communications for the PTA Board at Great Falls Elementary School, Secretary of her HOA board, and a Girl Scout troop leader for 25 fourth-grade girls. With her family involved in local sports like Great Falls Little League, GF Hoops, and lacrosse, Lindsay also enjoys spending time with their one-year-old puppy, Jax.
KANCHANNA RAMASAMY Vice President of Communications
In a world where technology and community intersect, Kanchanna Ramasamy stands out as a trailblazer. Originally from South India, she takes immense pride in her heritage, weaving it into every aspect of her life and work. This rich cultural background fuels her passion for advocating women's technological advancements especially in developing countries. She tirelessly works to create opportunities, break down barriers, and inspire the next generation of female tech leaders. Her commitment to community shines through in everything she does, from mentoring young women to spearheading initiatives that promote inclusivity and diversity. Whether she's coding the future or engaging in community initiatives, she embodies the spirit of collaboration and progress. Her story is a testament to the power of combining technical expertise with a heart for community service, making her a true luminary in the tech world and beyond.
SALIMA SINGLETARY
Vice President of Marketing
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CINDY SMITH
Vice President of Memberships
A Northern Virginia resident for 37 years, Cindy enjoys traveling, Pilates, beach vacations, and has recently started golf lessons. She lives with her husband Jeff, an entrepreneur in IT consulting, and is dedicated to her family, community, and personal growth.
Cindy Smith has spent over 20 years in senior management in the financial services industry, holding roles such as Division Controller, VP of Financial Planning, and Senior Director of Strategic Reengineering. With expertise in business process redesign, product development, and internal controls, she's made a lasting impact.
She later shifted her focus to raising her children, Connor and Haley, and became actively involved in their schools, serving on Parent Associations and chairing events that foster community. Cindy also supports local initiatives, serving on the boards of the Great Falls Soccer Club and the River Bend Swim Team, and is active with the McLean Project for the Arts.
Salima Singletary, a longtime resident of Great Falls, Virginia, grew up in the scenic bayside town of Annapolis, Maryland. After homeschooling her children for several years, Salima found herself with more time as they transitioned to Langley High School and beyond. Now in the next chapter of life, she is excited to channel her Communication Arts degree from The College of Notre Dame of Maryland into her role as Vice President of Marketing.
Salima is also passionate about running events for the Great Falls Farmers Market and enjoys growing a variety of herbs and vegetables on her deck—keeping them safe from the local deer. In her free time, she loves experimenting with homegrown herbs for body butters and oils, and she's always ready to babysit her new grandson.
Having called Great Falls home since 2009, Salima continues to embrace the small-town charm of the area and looks forward to eventually making it to the Colvin Run Dance Hall.
DYNNE SUNG
Vice President of Community Liaison
Dynne Sung joined the Women's Club in 2021 and recently stepped into a board position after two years of service on the Scholarship Fund Board. Though she works for a tech company, her primary focus is on raising her three young children. A passionate advocate for higher education, Dynne's impressive academic background includes earning a JD, MBA, and MSc, as well as serving as an adjunct professor in Georgetown University's Master's in Technology Management Program. Her commitment to giving back extends beyond her professional life—she has held nonprofit board positions with Friends of Theodore Roosevelt Island and a local dance company. Additionally, Dynne has volunteered by interviewing prospective students for Carnegie Mellon University and serving on Georgetown's Fulbright Scholarship Panel.
KATIE KACHEL
Vice President of Interest Groups
Katie Kachel is a mother of three, with two sons in Great Falls Little League and a daughter active in piano and the Great Falls Juniors Girl Scouts. Her husband, Christian, is a Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.
With nearly two decades of experience, Katie advocates for clients on legislative and regulatory issues before Congress and federal agencies, focusing on economic development and transportation. She previously worked with U.S. Senator Barbara Mikulski and Maryland State Senator John C. Astle, advising on appropriations and policy matters.
Katie's blend of community involvement and professional expertise highlights her commitment to family and public service.
© Best Version Media
Avoid the Holiday Lighting Disaster: Let the Pros Handle It
By ANDRE PASSOS - Owner The Ground Guys
One frosty winter, the Stewarts took on the challenge of setting up their own outdoor Christmas lights. (Yes, you might be thinking, “What a crazy idea!”) Hours dragged on, tempers flared, and as the sun set, their house was still dark, with nothing to show for it but a family-wide meltdown.
Don’t let this be the way your holiday season kicks o ! Instead, call in the professionals—The Grounds Guys—to transform your home into a winter wonderland, hassle-free. Before you grab that first string of twinkling bulbs, here are 10 surprising facts about Christmas lights that you probably didn’t know:
1. The first Christmas lights were made from candles
In 17th-century Germany, candles were used to light up Christmas trees. It wasn't until the 1880s that electric lights became a festive staple.
2. Thomas Edison’s colleague invented the first electric Christmas lights
In 1882, Edward Johnson, an associate of Edison, introduced the world to electric Christmas lights, forever changing holiday decorations.
3. Christmas lights can be a fire hazard
According to the National Fire Protection Association, improperly installed or faulty Christmas lights cause around 200 home fires annually in the U.S. Be sure to use safe practices!
4. LED lights are more energy-e icient LEDs use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last significantly longer—up to 50,000 hours more!
5. The color temperature of lights sets the mood
Warm white lights (2700K-3000K) create a cozy, inviting feel, while cool white (3500K-5000K) o ers a crisp, modern ambiance.
6. Christmas lights can be recycled
Instead of tossing old lights in the trash, take advantage of recycling programs o ered by many companies to reduce waste and conserve resources.
7. The average American spends 10 hours decorating for Christmas
That's a lot of time spent untangling lights and scaling ladders! Hiring professionals can free up time for more enjoyable holiday activities.
8. A well-lit home can boost your curb appeal
A thoughtfully lit exterior can make your home stand out and potentially even increase its value.
9. There’s a science to proper light placement
Achieving a visually stunning display involves understanding balance, harmony, and contrast—skills professionals have mastered.
10. Hiring a professional saves you time and stress
Let’s face it—decorating for the holidays can be overwhelming. By hiring a pro, you ensure a safe, beautiful display, while reclaiming time to enjoy with family and friends.
With the holidays approaching fast, why not leave the lighting to the experts? Not only will you avoid the headaches of tangled cords and precarious ladders, but you’ll also get a spectacular, safe display that your neighbors will envy. Support local businesses and enjoy a stress-free holiday season by hiring a professional to handle your Christmas lights this year.
We are The Grounds Guys—call us today at 571.290.2219 or visit groundguys.com to schedule your service.
© Best Version Media
Highlights from Women’s Club of Great Falls Events
By SOFIA ROMAN
As mentioned earlier, the Women's Club of Great Falls thrives on fostering connections through a vibrant calendar filled with social, cultural, civic, and philanthropic events. The photos below capture the energy and excitement of some of the wonderful gatherings they've hosted, showcasing the spirit of community that defines the club.
