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As the really hot days of summer approach, I find myself reminiscing on the carefree days ahead (not for me, for the kids) and the memories I have for this season. It's a time for relaxation, exploration, and creating cherished moments with friends.
Thinking back on my own childhood summers, there's one memory that always brings a really loud laugh to my mind—the summer I spent at a “fat camp”. Yes, you read that right! Surrounded by fellow amigos with a shared love for all things food-related, we embarked on a journey of selfdiscovery, sneaking Doritos and snickers in our backpacks, sprinkled with humor and a whole lot of heart.
From the funny attempts at butterfly swimming to the ridiculous talent show performances, every moment was a testament to the power of laughter and camaraderie. Though the goal of shedding a few pounds may have been NOT MET!!, the bonds made, and the belly laughs shared were worth their weight in gold, I still have friends from that camp in 1996.
As a parent now, I am tasked with filling these long summer days (my daughter not wanting to go to a any summer camp) with activities that entertain her, I'm reminded that it's the simple pleasures that truly matter. Whether it's a day at the pool, a hike in the woods (NOT For me), or a spontaneous dance party in the living room (Allegra loves this), or a Taylor Swift concert in Madrid which turned into a teenage Euro trip, I am committed to making this summer one filled with laughter and lasting memories even if I have to leave you guys for a few days.
Toodle-oo
With much appreciation,
ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES
Iche Chiu | 360 CPA 866-550-2050 | 360.cpa
ACUPUNCTURIST
Dr. Sarah Alemi | Eastern Roots Wellness 571-354-6643 | easternrootswellness.com
CAREER COACH
Kelly Featheringham | Kelly Featheringham ACC, Executive Career Coach | 914-489-8856 kelly@teamleadsolutions | kellyfeatheringham.com
DENTIST
Dr. Negar Tehrani | Aura Dentistry 703-748-1900 | auradentistry.com
EDUCATION
Jinsil V. Kim, MBA, M.Div. | C2 Education of McLean 703-288-4400 | c2educate.com
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Emily Yosmanovich | Trinity Preschool of McLean 703-790-2767 | umtrinity.org/preschool
FURNITURE
Joni Foerter | Front Porch Furniture Rescue 703-543-9248 | myfurniturerescue.com
HAIR STYLIST
Daniel Bechara | Salon Daniel 703-893-5000 | salondaniel.com
GASTROENTEROLOGY & HEPATOLOGY
Dr. Ramin Farboud | Advanced Gastroenterology & Hepatology 703-345-6655 | aghofgreaterwashington.com
DERMATOLOGY
Dr. Pantea Tamjidi, MD, F.A.A.D. | Tamjidi Skin Institute 703-345-6677 | tamjidiskininstitute.com
HOME COMFORT
Justin Dobson | Comfenegy and 3 Pros Basement Systems 1.800.604.2252 | 45714 Oakbrook Ct., Suite #180 Sterling VA comfenergy.com | 3prosbasementsystems.com
HOME SERVICES
Dawn Crawley | STW Cleaning 703-348-2221 | www.STW Cleaning.com
HEALTH & FITNESS
Janine Frank | 2 Health Nuts 410-935-9241 | 2healthnuts.com
HOME SERVICES: ROOFING
Esequiel Alvarez | Falcon Roo昀椀ng & Solar 703-826-5306 | falconroofingva.com
INSURANCE
Milena Bu | State Farm 225-252-1932 | buforyou.com
MENTAL HEALTH
Eva-Maria Theodosiadis, MD & Dr. Debra Brosius Integrated Psychology Associates of McLean, LLC 703-215-4101 | debrabrosius.com | ipamclean.com
LANDSCAPING - RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
Andre Passos | The Grounds Guys 888-929-8188 | groundguys.com
MASTER PEDICURIST & ONCOLOGY-TRAINED ESTHETICIAN
Lisa Tep | Sesen Spa 703-281-0822 | sesenspa.com
MOVER
Gina Kovatch |Petra Moving Company 703-547-7631 | petramovingcompany.com
PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Gema Island | Island Children Dentistry & Orthodonticst 703-790-1320 | islandchildrensdentistry.com
REAL ESTATE
Brian Mason | Signature Move Real Estate 703-936-6501 | Signaturemoverealestate.com
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Stephanie Q. Lawrence | Vinson Hall 540-314-8745 | vinsonshall.org
TRAVEL AGENT/VACATION PLANNING
Emmy Hoffman | Luxe Traveler Club 502-345-8938 | luxetravelerclub.com
INFANT FEEDING DIFFICULTIES & LASER FRENECTOMY
Dr. Rishita Jaju | Smile Wonders 571-350-3663 | smilewonders.com
By KATIE CULLIGAN Photos by MYRTLE ROY
If you’ve spent any time living in or frequenting the local businesses of “Downtown McLean,” you’ve likely heard side conversations discussing the push and pull e orts to renovate the downtown area, about 230 acres of land that is comprised of 3 di erent zones: a central zone, a general zone, and an edge zone (see map). Some have strong opinions about the redevelopment endeavors, while others can’t figure out to whom they should even direct their questions.
Enter the McLean Revitalization Corporation, or the MRC. The organization was founded in 1998 as a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization to implement a revitalization plan developed through a collaborative process involving citizens, the business community, and the county government. Their objective is simple: to promote the revitalization of downtown McLean by joining e orts of residents, landowners, businesses, and civic organizations to enhance downtown’s energy, make it a more pedestrian-friendly center of community activity, and increase its economic vitality. The “How” is much less simple.
The MRC has a multi-pronged approach to their revitalization e orts. The full board, which is composed of 13 McLean residents plus support and collaboration from a few people from local and county government o ices, meets once a month and is broken up into separate committees that convene throughout the month. These committees include the Communications Team, the Events Team, the Streetscapes Team, and the Supervisor’s O ice Team. Each team focuses on di erent areas to accomplish a common goal of creating a strong sense of “togetherness” within downtown McLean.
The Communications Team consists of Jessica Wu, Mike Monroe, and Camille White-Partain, who have been heavily focusing on updating and enhancing the MRC website, www.mcleantoday.org, which is essentially a town directory plus a “Citizens of McLean online publication." They work closely with the website manager, Gayle Carter, to spotlight upcoming events throughout McLean, local business owners, along with creating a comprehensive directory of shops, cafes, and businesses on their website. Checking out the website is a fun way to get to know McLean business owners on a more intimate level. Some of the more recent interviews published on the site include the McLean Youth Soccer Coach, and the business owners of Call Your Mother Deli. They also showcase the stories of local McLean residents and the city’s history. The MRC also keeps philanthropy at the forefront of their site’s service, as there are many unique non-profits local to McLean that can post volunteer opportunities for residents of all ages. They want to “show who McLean is" by communicating volunteer opportunities for local organizations. Wu states, “We are collaborating as much as we can with other McLean organizations.” This includes the McLean Civic Organization, which is a group for all non-profits so they can e ectively communicate initiatives with the community.
Another way that the MRC is building up a sense of “togetherness” is with McLean-wide events that will take place in the downtown area. The Events Team includes the hard work of Autumn Price, Kim Dorgan, and Camille White-Partain who are currently working on a movie night for the whole town to enjoy. The hope is to also combine the movie showing with local restaurants to create a “dinner and a movie” combo. They are collaborating closely with the county o icials to secure an outdoor movie screen, speakers, and other equipment that would be shared throughout the county. They also want to separately highlight downtown McLean restaurants with a “Taste of McLean” event in the near future. These events require careful planning, financial support, and thoughtful execution plans, so please stay tuned for more on these exciting events very soon!
“We are trying to make McLean a place that people go to, rather than drive through.” Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman says in regards to his hopes for the future of McLean. Collaboration between the MRC and local government, such as the Dranesville District Supervisor sta , has been instrumental in some of the MRC’s past success projects. Some of the successes that the MRC has played a role in include pedestrian and bicycle wayfinding signage, McLean Gateway signage, the under-grounding
of utilities, and the Listrani restaurant triangle landscaping. The proof is in the pudding for the Streetscapes Team, as their committee’s objective is to beautify downtown while making it more walkable and enhancing pedestrian and bike safety. The Streetscapes team is comprised of the e orts of Bill Sudow, Chris Zumot, Peter Appel, Tom Gilmore, and Tom Jacobi. They’ve been working to develop strong relationships with landowners and business owners to understand their vision, current limitations, and desires for downtown McLean. “We support property owners who are seeking to redevelop their properties when their plans are consistent with the Amended Plan and Design Guidelines, and will be advocates to help facilitate their planning and approval process with the County and community,” states Tom Gilmore, President of the MRC.
The common misconception of the MRC’s revitalization e orts is that McLean will become “Tyson’s Tall”. The
MRC wants to keep the “small town feel,” but with new investment in downtown to update the area that make up downtown and eventually create a town square or central area for community gatherings. In fact, the tallest building within the McLean Community Business Center’s boundaries can only be seven stories high, according to the Fairfax County Comprehensive Plan for the McLean Planning District, a document that the MRC was heavily involved in developing. The three zones created in the newly adopted Comprehensive Plan limit building heights, and the heights decrease as the zones get closer to residential neighborhoods.
“We need to push the di erences aside to create a sense of community, a safe and walkable town for pedestrians and bikers, along with having community events and being proud of where we live,” emphasizes Jessica Wu. She encourages the community to actively engage in downtown revitalization conversations and datacollection e orts.
The MRC simply wants “One McLean for all.” They want to use data to help make these vital changes, so they are asking for input from the town. They have put together a survey that they hope McLean citizens will take, which is now live on their website at www. McLeanToday.org. Please take the time to tell the MRC what you would like to see in downtown McLean, and stay involved in these revitalization e orts so that we can all be proud of where we live.
Proposed design guidelines for downtown McLean envision Elm Street as one of two future main streets (via Fairfax County
A cluster of parents stand outside the door to Trinity Preschool of McLean. They are surrounded by a sweet little garden, planted and tended to by their own children. Butterflies that their children raised dance off a bush to their right, and ripe strawberries hang in a raised bed to their left, while a colorful row of watering cans lines the windowsill. The joyful sounds of children’s laughter waft in the Spring air from the playground. The parents smile and chat while they await the end of their child’s preschool day, ready to receive them and hear all about their adventures. One mother tells Preschool Director Emily Yosmanovich, “Some days my daughter doesn’t want to leave her classroom to go home! I know her teachers love her. She feels special here and she has so much fun. It’s a lovely community.” Another mother chimes in, “The teachers here are really remarkable. They are experienced with this age group and they are always smiling. I watch them generously dole out hugs and encouragement to all of the kids here. I think that’s why the kids don’t want to go home.” They have a laugh together as the door swings open to welcome them inside for dismissal time, and one says to Yosmanovich, “Time to try to pry her away from her favorite place!”
Trinity has been a home away from home for our three-year-old! The teachers are so kind and nurturing, it is lovely to know that our daughter feels so loved and safe in their care.
- Lulia HitoTrinity Preschool of McLean has a history of being a favorite place for many toddlers now grown and flown in McLean. The school’s veteran teacher, Janine Whit昀椀eld, has been there for over 20 years. She says, “I run into my former preschoolers at the grocery store now, and they are college graduates! They still remember our class time together!” Trinity is almost a hidden gem in the community. Nestled through the back entrance of Trinity United Methodist Church, and surrounded by mature trees, you might miss it driving by. But Trinity Preschool of McLean is not a place to be missed! Formerly known as Trinity Parents’ Day Out (PDO), the program began as a co-op among local parents in the 1970’s and evolved into a three-room preschool by the 1990’s. In fact, Emily Yosmanovich attended the PDO program as a toddler herself, and even returned to teach the toddler class briefly while she worked on her Master’s in Education at George Mason University. She says, “When I moved my young family back to McLean, I knew I wanted my children to have the Trinity experience, full of warmth and curiosity and imagination! I enrolled my children here, and somehow wound up running the
school!” She chuckles at that, recalling that she sort of fell into this little part-time job in 2019 and it quickly became a full-time passion project. The church that oversees the program acquired new permitting to allow the preschool to grow. The unexpected pandemic curveball put the expansion on a new timeline. “We had the space and the ability to open safely in Fall 2020. Once we realized we could do that well, it was a no-brainer to open more classrooms at a time when other schools had to remain closed.” The preschool expanded and rebranded. It doubled in enrollment size, added before and after care, and began offering Kindergarten.
Trinity Preschool of McLean serves 75 children, ages 2 - 6, with options for full or part day enrollment. While Christian-based, the school enrolls children of all faiths and invites them to share their traditions with the community. The school’s motto, “Learning Led by Curiosity and Curiosity Fed by Play” guides the daily curriculum. “We don’t follow one curriculum or one philosophy,” says teacher, Lisa Casella, “We borrow some from Montessori and some from Reggio Emilia. We take the best pieces and observe what our children need to tailor the experience for each new group.”
Children at Trinity are engaged in creative, hands-on, and social play. They explore early concepts in math, literacy, science, art and culture through play themes. They develop a sense of self and empathy for others through cooperative experiences. Uniquely, the school also offers its curriculum
The staff at Trinity Preschool of McLean are a treasure. As a parent, I could not be more confident that my child is getting exactly the kind of care, structure, and attention that meets her specific needs. She has truly thrived in her time at TPoM, and we are grateful to have discovered the community that comes with it.
- Brenna Lundstrom
bilingually in English and French. “Exposing young children to a different language develops the brain to understand multiple perspectives and approaches,” says Yosmanovich. “Several of our teachers speak exclusively French to our children.” Children also participate in weekly Music and Movement classes, as well as Chapel Time with the church’s pastor. Rain or shine, children at Trinity enjoy ample outdoor time on the school’s big playground and even “hiking” through the tree groves on campus. Teacher Jenifer Abi-Najm explains, “observing nature, its changes and its wonders, is paramount to the curriculum. It teaches children to be gentle and patient stewards of our Earth and relate to change with acceptance and flexibility.”
Trinity Preschool of McLean hosts family socials once a month to build community, and several times a year the children practice con昀椀dence by performing a concert for the parents. Young Trinity graduates even act in a play that they write together as their 昀椀nal project at the school. “It’s hard to graduate from Trinity,” a mother of two former students writes. “The kids were very ready for their next step in elementary school, but we have not again found the intense sense of love and belonging that we knew at Trinity. It is a special place.”
Address: Trinity Preschool of McLean, 1205 Dolley Madison Boulevard, McLean, VA 22101
Phone: 703-790-2767
Website: www.umtrinity.org/preschool
Early Bird Before Care: 8:30 am - 9:30 am
Preschool Classrooms: 9:30 am -1:30 pm
Kindergarten Classroom: 9:30 am - 2:30 pm
Night Owl After Care: 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
• Play-Based Learning
• Experienced Staff
• Inclusive Community
• Diverse Student Body
• Bilingual English/French
• Spacious Playground
• Ample Outdoor Play (in the rain, too!)
• Music and Movement
• Chapel
• Community Service
• Gardening
• Nature Hikes
• Art Exhibits
• Concerts & Plays
• Holiday Celebrations
• Raising Butterflies
• Hatching Chicken Eggs
We have made tremendous progress as women, but let's face it, in many ways, it is still a man's world, particularly in the workplace. Despite numerous strides and initiatives made in recent years towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), there remain glaring differences in how things operate in professional settings. These disparities often challenge our journey as credible and promotable leaders.
Many women I've spoken with express their struggles with balancing personal commitments—like driving their children to school or attending 昀椀eld trips—with their professional responsibilities. These seemingly small demands often have a disproportionate impact on how women are perceived in terms of leadership potential and commitment to their careers.
The Persistent Challenges
Despite our progress, the reality remains that women often must navigate a workspace designed by and for men. This traditional setup doesn't always acknowledge the dual demands many women face, especially those related to family and caregiving responsibilities.
Yet, the challenges do not end there. Women without children also face pervasive stereotypes and biases that question their achievements and leadership roles.
Broadening the Lens
The push to level the playing 昀椀eld and increase the representation of women in leadership positions, while necessary and commendable, sometimes leads to unintended consequences. There are still echoes of outdated but persistent biases where, regardless of their family status, women's advancements are scrutinized.
Colleagues might question whether achievements are based on merit or if they are the results of modern equity initiatives. This scrutiny is a contemporary echo of the outdated and sexist assumptions that women in previous decades navigated, where promotions were unfairly attributed to personal relationships rather than professional merit.
For women without children, these challenges can manifest in subtle but signi昀椀cant ways. Their commitment and time might be taken for granted, or they might be expected to compensate for colleagues who balance work with family life. Moreover, their successes can sometimes be overshadowed by whispers that their path was smoothed by diversity quotas rather than carved out by hard work and talent.
In my work with leaders, many of whom are women both with and without children, I've heard these struggles echoed time and again—struggles that I, too, have experienced 昀椀rsthand. It's from this shared understanding that I've developed speci昀椀c strategies to help all women leaders not only cope but thrive.
One effective approach has been the creation of support systems and networks where experiences and strategies can be shared without judgment. Formal and informal mentorship can also play a signi昀椀cant role in providing guidance and building con昀椀dence, ensuring that each woman’s achievements are recognized as the result of her own hard work and capabilities.
Through the ElevateHer series, we aim to educate, empower, and create a community where women can feel heard and understood by others experiencing similar challenges, irrespective of their personal life choices. This series is designed not just to address the issues but to foster an environment where solutions are actively developed and implemented for all women, honoring their diverse paths and contributions.
Our objective is to transform these shared experiences into a collective source of strength. By doing so, we not only support individual women but also contribute to broader change, influencing how workplaces accommodate and support diverse leadership styles and life demands. We strive to ensure that every woman's success is recognized as earned and deserved—the product of talent, determination, and skill.
The road ahead is still long, and the challenges are real, but by coming together and using our collective voices and strengths, we can continue to make signi昀椀cant strides. The goal is not just to succeed individually but to pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable workplace for the next generation of women leaders.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey—the ElevateHer community is here to support and uplift you every step of the way, celebrating your success as your own, hard-earned triumph.
Moving during the summer months can present unique challenges, from scorching heat to increased demand for moving services. With that in mind, it's crucial to ensure the safety of your belongings throughout the transition. In this guide, we'll explore effective strategies and packing solutions to safeguard your items during a summer move, ensuring they arrive at your new home intact.
Fragile items such as glassware, dishes, and delicate ornaments require extra care during a move. Consider investing in sturdy cardboard boxes speci昀椀cally designed for fragile items, often labeled as "dish packs" or "glass packs." These boxes are reinforced and come with dividers to keep items secure and prevent breakage. Additionally, wrap each fragile item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap to provide an extra layer of protection.
Protecting furniture from scratches, dents, and moisture is essential during a move. Utilize furniture blankets or moving pads to cover and cushion large items such as sofas, tables, and dressers. Secure the blankets with stretch wrap or packing tape to keep them in place. For wooden furniture, apply furniture polish or wax before wrapping to provide an additional layer of protection against moisture and scratches.
Investing in high-quality packing materials can make a signi昀椀cant difference in the safety of your belongings during a move. Here are the essential packing materials every mover should consider:
1. Moving Boxes: Choose sturdy cardboard boxes in various sizes to accommodate different items. Reinforced boxes are ideal for heavy items like books and kitchen appliances.
2. Packing Paper: Use packing paper to wrap fragile items and 昀椀ll empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting.
3. Bubble Wrap: Protect delicate items such as glassware, electronics, and artwork with bubble wrap to absorb shock during transit.
4. Packing Peanuts: Fill voids in boxes with packing peanuts to cushion items and prevent them from shifting.
5. Stretch Wrap: Use stretch wrap to secure furniture blankets, bundle loose items together, and protect upholstered furniture from dirt and moisture.
When it comes to packing and loading your belongings, there are a few secrets movers keep in mind to prevent any mishaps during transport. One major secret is to pack your boxes 昀椀rst before loading your furniture and larger items on your truck. Depending on the number of boxes you have, packing this way can save you a lot of room to load more items and save on multiple trips.
With the right strategies and packing materials, you can ensure your items remain safe and secure during a summer move. From protecting fragile items to securing furniture and electronics, implementing these solutions will help streamline the moving process and give you peace of mind knowing your belongings are in good hands.
And to make your move even smoother, take advantage of our exclusive promotion! Schedule full-service moving with us today and receive a whopping 50% OFF packing services. Let our expert movers handle the packing, ensuring your items are packed with care and attention to detail, so you can focus on settling into your new home worry-free. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer! Book your move now and let Petra Moving Company do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to!
Interest rates are unlikely to decrease anytime soon. The Federal Reserve aims to reduce annual inflation to 2%, but it remains stubbornly around the low 3% range. Additionally, the federal government’s efforts to mitigate inflation by spending money and offering 昀椀nancial incentives have allowed people to continue spending, perpetuating inflation. Another factor to consider is the impact of potential interest rate reductions on mortgage rates. If interest rates do decrease, many 2023 and 2024 homebuyers are likely to re昀椀nance their mortgages to lower their monthly payments. This increase in disposable income would counteract the Federal Reserve’s goal of achieving 2% inflation.
Housing prices in Northern Virginia are expected to remain stable, with well-priced and marketed homes selling within +/- 3% of the asking price. This stability applies to homes priced at $1.15 million or below, aligning with the 2024 conforming loan limit for government-backed loans, excluding those with a VA Loan Certi昀椀cate of Eligibility. These conforming homes might see a potential spike in value when interest rates drop, as the Federal Housing Finance Agency and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development increase their conforming loan limits. This increase is driven by programs designed to assist 昀椀rst-time homebuyers, which could lead to continued bidding wars.
Rental prices are expected to continue rising year over year. Unlike mortgage rates, rental prices have not increased at the same pace. Many small-time investors who rented out their homes are primarily concerned with covering their mortgage payments. Those who purchased homes between 2020 and early 2022 secured interest rates at 3% or below, resulting in lower monthly mortgage payments. Consequently, they do not need to charge market rates to cover their costs. However, many potential buyers are unable to afford down payments, closing costs, and monthly mortgage payments, leading them to rent until homeownership becomes affordable. For those who buy at higher interest rates and later decide to rent out their properties, higher mortgage payments will necessitate higher rental prices to break even.
In the summer, Northern Virginia typically experiences warmer temperatures, which can lead to health concerns such as heat and insect-related illnesses, dehydration, and increased chances of injuries from outdoor activities.
Summer in NOVA can bring high temperatures and humidity, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. With longer daylight hours and more time spent outdoors, there's also an increased risk of sunburn. Today we’re going to focus on preventing heat-related issues, such as sunburn or sunstroke, as well as some treatment options from the perspective of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).
TCM herbal formulas can help regulate the body's internal temperature and promote hydration. Herbs like mung bean, chrysanthemum, and lotus leaf are commonly used to clear heat and cool the body. These herbs can be prepared as teas or taken in pill or capsule form.
Acupuncture, a key component of TCM, can help regulate the body's temperature and promote better circulation. Speci昀椀c acupuncture points are targeted to clear heat and harmonize the body's energy (Qi). By restoring balance, acupuncture may alleviate symptoms of heat-related illnesses such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. There are actual points meant for skin rashes, sunstroke, etc. For example, points called Large Intestine 4 and Large Intestine 11 can be utilized via acupuncture or acupressure to help release heat from the body.
According to TCM principles, certain foods have cooling properties that can help counteract heat in the body. These include fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and melons, as well as vegetables like bitter gourd and celery. Avoiding spicy, greasy, and heavy foods is also recommended during hot weather to prevent excess heat accumulation.
TCM emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper hydration to support overall health and prevent heat-related illnesses. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and soups, helps replenish fluids lost through sweating and keeps the body cool and hydrated. Some refreshing herbal teas include hibiscus, peppermint or mint, lavender, and oolong.
TCM also advocates lifestyle modi昀椀cations to prevent heat-related illnesses. These may include avoiding excessive exposure to the sun during peak hours, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, and practicing relaxation techniques such as tai chi or qigong to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
Again, it's essential to stay hydrated, wear lightweight and loose-昀椀tting clothing, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during peak sun hours to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Adding in some of the above TCM recommendations can offer additional protection and treatment.
By staying informed about these potential health concerns and taking appropriate precautions, you can enjoy a safe and healthy summer in Northern Virginia.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a safe, non-drug therapy for major depression that utilizes magnetic pulses to activate dormant brain synapses and restore normal brain function. 83% of patients completing NeuroStar treatment experienced measurable depression relief 62% experienced full remission of their depression symptoms
By stimulating or inhibiting neuron circuits, TMS can help restate the balance of brain activity for conditions like depression in adolescents and adults, as well as OCD.
Visit our website: www.mcleancounselingcenter.com/transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-tms
Ehsan Habibpour, M.D. Medical Director
McLean Counseling Center is a mental health center that focuses on delivering cutting-edge psychiatric treatments to its patients. NeuroStar TMS is a prime example of an advanced treatment modality we use to help our patients. Our center’s experienced team of providers delivers personalized and precise care in an integrated and collaborative way.
Welcome to the vibrant heart of Washington, DC, where innovation meets elegance and connectivity flourishes at the grand opening of Venture X's Premier Of昀椀ce Space in Adams Morgan. Nestled within walking distance of the renowned 18th Street corridor, this premier of昀椀ce space sets the stage for a dynamic work environment unlike any other. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a burgeoning startup, there's no better place to cultivate creativity, collaboration, and success than at Venture X.
At the recent grand opening event, guests were treated to an unforgettable experience, immersing themselves in the empowering atmosphere of Venture X. Amidst the sleek and modern surroundings, attendees had the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals while enjoying the abundance of amenities that Adams Morgan has to offer.
Book your free trial day today and discover the endless possibilities awaiting you at Venture X in Adams Morgan.
Once again, on May 4th, The Plains, VA, played host to the legendary annual affair, The Virginia Gold Cup. Among the splendor of this event, the standout venue was undoubtedly the private tent of the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce, co-hosted by McLean Living. Under the impeccable hospitality of TRCC’s CEO Andrew Clark and McLean Living’s CEO Gloria Fonseca and bolstered by the sponsorship of key businesses like Nadia Khan Estates, First National Bank, Value Mortgage, and Bernstein, the occasion proved ideal for fostering connections.
Pictures and Articles Continued Though Page 29
Sponsor Emrah - Value Mortgage, and Andrew Clark - Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce
Despite the rain and chill, guests reveled in a delightful atmosphere adorned with vibrant hats, blooming flowers, flowing champagne, and delightful cuisine prepared by Chef Dane Cook. Amidst the festivities, betting and equestrian spectacles added to the excitement, ensuring all attendees had a memorable experience.
Designs reflecting timeless and accessible elegance, delivering a statement of refined style.
Specializing in residential and commercial interior design, home staging, exterior design, new builds, paint color consultations, and E-design.
Nadiha Chaudri MBA, PMP 1765 Greensboro Station Place, Suite 900, McLean, VA 22102
703-655-8712 • Nadiha.Chaudri@gmail.com www.statementdesignconcepts.com
Let’s walk through a passage of time and elegance with the Irene Sheridan House, located on prestigious Embassy Row in Washington, D.C. Presented by the renowned realtors René and Deborah DeMoss Fonseca of Long & Foster | FORBES Global Properties, this historic gem is a testament to timeless grandeur and modern luxury.
Originally constructed in the 1920s, the Irene Sheridan House stands as a magni昀椀cent example of architectural brilliance, recognized by the National Park Service as an Historic American Building. Formerly owned by General Philip Sheridan's widow and later by the Government of Greece, this iconic residence has been meticulously restored to its former glory after being a Build-to-Suit property for years.
The allure of the Irene Sheridan House lies not only in its rich heritage but also in its impeccable craftsmanship and luxurious amenities. Boasting 5 bedrooms, 6 full bathrooms, and 3 powder rooms across six stately stories, this residence exudes sophistication at every turn.
Step inside to discover a world of opulence, where old-world elegance seamlessly intertwines with modern comforts. From the new elevator and parking for 4 cars to the rooftop terrace with two bedroom balconies, no detail has been overlooked in this masterful restoration.
Indulge your culinary desires in the magni昀椀cent kitchen equipped with a 6-burner stove, grill, and pot-昀椀ller, or unwind by one of the three gas 昀椀replaces scattered throughout the home. With 16 temperature zones, a wine cooler, and top-of-the-line technology, every aspect of comfort and convenience has been meticulously considered.
As a true masterpiece with a rich heritage, the Irene Sheridan House stands as a testament to the enduring allure of historic properties in the heart of the nation's capital. This extraordinary residence with a price tag of $8,195,000 its story of elegance and re昀椀nement continues to captivate and inspire. We just couldn't resist sharing its incredible story with our readers.
Keep your pet cool this summer! Summer is heating up, and unfortunately, that can be hard on our four-legged family members. Signs of heat stroke in dogs include excessive panting or drooling, increased heart rate, vomiting or diarrhea, and red gums on tongue –as it advances, it can include lethargy, confusion, weakness, and even seizures.
Fortunately, there are many great steps you can take to avoid your pup overheating this summer! Here are some of our favorite tips to ensure your dog can safely enjoy some amazing summer adventures:
• Take your longest or most strenuous dog walks in the morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler.
• Mind the heat of the pavement! If it’s too hot for you to hold your hand on, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
• Make sure they have plenty of access to water, whether bottled on walks or outside while they play. Add ice to keep it cool!
• Feed them water-packed snacks like watermelon and berries (in moderation).
• Make sure your pet is groomed (as appropriate for their breed).
• Take breaks from outdoor play and make sure they have access to water and shade.
• Put out the sprinkler! Cool water on your dog’s coat helps them maintain a healthy body temperature.
• Put cool towels on your dog’s paws or dip their paws in cool water (not ice water).
• Don’t leave your dog in the car (even for just a few minutes!) or unsupervised outside.
Wishing your two- and four-legged family members a fun-昀椀lled summer!
PET NAME: Pisho (means cat in Persian language)
PET BREED: White doll-face Persian cat
AGE: 13 years old
PET OWNER: Sarah Farzayee
Decluttering your space is a transformative process that not only tidies your environment but also brings mental clarity. Here are 昀椀ve practical steps to get you started:
1. SET CLEAR GOALS: Before you dive into decluttering, it's crucial to establish what you want to achieve. Do you wish to create more space in a particular room, reduce the amount of clothing you own, or organize your digital 昀椀les for better productivity? Having clear objectives will guide your decluttering efforts and keep you motivated.
2. START SMALL: The prospect of decluttering can feel overwhelming, so it's essential to begin with manageable tasks. Choose a single drawer, a closet shelf, or a desktop to start. Completing these smaller tasks will give you a sense of accomplishment and encourage you to tackle larger areas.
3. CATEGORIZE YOUR ITEMS: As you sort through your belongings, categorize them into items to keep, donate, sell, or throw away. Be honest with yourself about what you really need and use. This step is crucial in helping you let go of items that no longer serve a purpose in your life.
4. IMPLEMENT A SYSTEM: Once you've decluttered, establish an organizational system that prevents clutter from accumulating again. This could be as simple as assigning speci昀椀c places for your belongings or setting a regular schedule for decluttering sessions. Consistency is key to maintaining a clutter-free space.
5. CELEBRATE YOUR PROGRESS: Decluttering is an ongoing process, and it's important to acknowledge your har your progress by enjoying your newly decluttered sp yourself with a non-material treat. Recognizing your achievements will motivate you to maintain a clutter-free enviro
Despite being one of the wealthiest counties in the country, Fairfax is home to an alarmingly high number of hungry children. One out of every three kids in the Fairfax County public school system quali昀椀es for free and reduced meals. How do hungry children get the boost of energy they need to survive the school day? What happens to these children during weekends, holidays, and evenings? This is where Food For Neighbors (FFN) enters the equation.
FFN was started by Karen and Mark Joseph. Karen, a PTA President, was blown away at the number of hungry children seeking food from a school social worker at her own child’s school. When she started researching who was working locally to address food insecurity, she discovered that little was being done to support middle and high schoolers.
FFN’s mission is to address teen food insecurity by providing food, toiletries, and grocery store gift cards. It helps schools establish in-house pantries and mobilizes communities surrounding the schools to 昀椀ll them with food and toiletries donated through the nonpro昀椀t's signature Red Bag Program. For the most vulnerable students, FFN operates another program that provides grocery store gift cards so students and their families may shop for food that they most need.
As part of its popular Red Bag Program, FFN distributes red bags along with a list of needed items to community members who sign up to donate items. Five times during the academic year, on a Saturday, another set of volunteers collect the 昀椀lled bags on designated, school-based routes and deliver them to a central location where volunteers gather to sort and distribute the items to partnering schools in the area.
In April, S4G partnered with FFN to collect 646 pounds of food and toiletries for the food pantry at Luther Jackson Middle School. S4G’s in-kind donation
was the largest received during FFN’s April 27 Red Bag event. S4G also provided $2,830 in 昀椀nancial donations so FFN can purchase grocery gift cards for the most vulnerable teens for when they would otherwise go hungry. On National Volunteer Day on April 27, 15 S4G volunteers participated in FFN’s Red Bag Program’s food sort, which in total across nine operational areas collected 25,800 pounds of food and toiletries from 1,969 participating households!
Renee Maxwell, FFN’s Director of Development, expressed her appreciation. “Thank you for helping Food For Neighbors tackle teen food insecurity. Your wonderful food drive, hands-on volunteer support, and 昀椀nancial support make a big impact on our grassroots nonpro昀椀t and the many students we serve. You’re helping to lift up students so they can reach their full potential. You all know how to do service!”
Since 2016, FFN has grown signi昀椀cantly, in part because the model is flexible, replicable, and locally focused. Today, FFN supports more than 7,500 students at 47 middle and high schools in Northern Virginia!
S4G is an all-volunteer, grassroots organization that brings together engaged women who want to meet new people and support the organizations that make our community strong. Each month, this column will highlight S4G’s monthly project to raise awareness of critical needs in our community and local nonpro昀椀ts making a difference.
To learn more about S4G or to support local nonpro昀椀ts, visit www.social4good.community.
Emmy is an Advisor at Luxe Traveler Club, a boutique travel agency specializing in custom itineraries and personalized service. Through Preferred Partnerships with top hotels and the Virtuoso network, she is able to add special amenities and perks to create a VIP experience.
