September 2023

CLEA LIVING M N

The man behind the

COVER PHOTO BY TATIANA DOVE

Best Version Media

PUBLICATION TEAM

Publisher: Gloria Bruni

Publisher Assistant: Daniela Banegas

Copy Editor: Stefanie Stayin

Account Executive: Crissy Moore Hall

Designer: Amanda Capehart

Writer: Katie Culligan

Writer: Eesha Somasundar

Photographer: Tatiana Dove

ADVERTISING

Contact: Gloria Bruni

Email: gbruni@bestversionmedia.com

Phone: 703-868-8071

FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS

Have

We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to bestversionmedia.com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: gbruni@bestversionmedia.com.

My Dearest McLean Residents,

I hope you're all having an amazing month. I wanted to bring up a topic that's been on my mind lately: bullying. While our magazine usually covers our community's positive aspects, it's crucial to address important issues too.

I recently had an experience that caught me by surprise. A new friend whose company I had been enjoying disinvited me from joining her sports team, and made mocking gestures and whispered things about me behind my back at a luncheon with a group of 10 women. While I acknowledge that I could toughen up and have thicker skin, I have to admit that this incident really hurt my feelings. I was surprised that adults would act with this level of disregard for a friend's feelings. It's true that I'm not as good as the rest of the team, but there are ways to deal with a situation such as this while still maintaining a level of respect and civility.

This experience reminded me that bullying isn't something we leave behind in school; it can happen anywhere. It also made me think about the upcoming school year and how difficult it must be for some of our kids to deal with new people and feelings of loneliness. We can model kind and gracious behavior for our children - smile, hold a door open, give up a place in line, share your snack or sandwich - and be the reason for improvements in our own lives and in the lives of those around you. Surround yourself with positivity and kindness, and watch it radiate throughout our community. Bullying takes a great toll on the emotional health of both adults and children.

We need to do more than just talk about kindness; we need to embody it. We as adults have responsibility to set an example by treating each other with kindness and respect. Bullies hurt more than just their targets; they hurt themselves too. McLean is our community, and it's up to us to make it a great place for everyone. This September, let's stand up against bullying. Let's reach out to those who might be feeling isolated and create an environment where support and kindness thrive.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Let's make September a month of positivity, growth, and looking out for one another. In the spirit of mutual support, let's remember to back our local businesses and express gratitude to our exceptional sponsors!

Sincerely,

Best Version Media

EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS

ACCOUNTING & TAX SERVICES

Iche Chiu | 360 CPA 866-550-2050 | 360.cpa

ACUPUNCTURIST

Dr. Sarah Alemi | Eastern Roots Wellness 571-354-6643 | easternrootswellness.com

BAKERY

Sandra Panetta | Sweetbites Cafe 703-448-1115 | sweetbitescafe.com

CAREER COACH

Kelly Featheringham | Kelly Featheringham ACC, Executive Career Coach 914-489-8856 | kellyfeatheringham.com

COSMETIC ENHANCEMENT

Maryam Khavandi | Medjuvenis 703-345-8322 | medjuvenis.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

HEALTH & FITNESS

Janine Serio | 2 Health Nuts 410-935-9241 | 2healthnuts.com

HOME SERVICES: ROOFING

Esequiel Alvarez | Falcon Roofing & 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

PERMANENT MAKE-UP

Paola Soto | Synergy Beauty

703-734-0772 | synergybeautytysons.com

PREMIUM BEAUTY AND WELLNESS

Keneathia Glenn | K. Arcadia

703-752-6270 | karcadia.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

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Life Plan

By Stephanie Lawrence

The terms “CCRC” and “Life Plan Community” are synonymous, but at Vinson Hall Retirement Community, we like the idea of a “life plan.” Located in McLean, Virginia, our Independent Living community serves military officers and their immediate families, as well as government employees from any federal agency (GS-14 and above).

Ask any resident, and they will tell you that while our Independent Living neighborhood offers unbeatable lifestyle benefits, one of the biggest draws of our Life Plan Community is the security and peace of mind it offers them. They know

they will be taken care of should their health needs change. Often, older adults who live on their own end up making decisions on the fly, after an incident. Perhaps they suffer from a fall or need rehabilitation after an extended hospital stay. What do you do? Where do you go? Vinson Hall Retirement Community residents know the answers long in advance. They’ve made their plans and can relax and enjoy peace of mind every day. We would love to discuss more about how our Life Plan Community will give you the peace of mind you need to enjoy every moment of your retirement. Contact us for a consultation or tour at 571-496-9563 to get started.

PLAN YOUR NEXT GREAT ADVENTURE

Vinson Hall Retirement Community residents come from a variety of backgrounds, but they have one thing in common: a spirit of adventure. Whether they are returning from a vacation to Italy or a trip to the grocery store, military officers and their families, and leadership level (GS-14 and higher) government employees from any federal agency, love coming home to Vinson Hall Retirement Community.

KEVIN TIGHE The man behind the Club

By Katie Culligan

If you’ve spent any time living in McLean, you’ve seen McLean Racquet and Health Club (MRHC) on your drives and walks, you’ve known members of the club, or quite likely even have become a member yourself. This is because the club is a living and breathing McLean institution that has proudly served our community for 51 years! What you may not know is how integral MRHC owner, Kevin Tighe, is to the club.

After graduating from law school at Catholic University, Kevin sat for the Massachusetts Bar exam, which automatically qualified him for a real estate broker's license. While working in Washington, DC, in the early years of his career and because of his early interest in real estate, he began to notice the migration of young families with kids to communities like McLean. Through his research, he learned that the only other indoor tennis club was about to close for good. After scouting sites for a club of his own, he identified the land on which the MRHC now stands, which was owned by a retired couple that was living in New Hampshire, and flew there to meet with them. As Kevin explains, “Over a wonderful roast beef dinner” the couple decided to sell him the site. He then got a loan from Northern VA bank and on January 4th, 1972, the club opened its doors.

The original facility boasted six tennis courts and profited by selling tennis court

PHOTOS BY TATIANA DOVE

time. However, in 1982, Tighe renovated the club and converted his facility to a membership-based business model. Subsequent renovations include the removal of one tennis court and addition of a saltwater hot tub and pool, full gym, cardio deck, class studio and an atrium, in creation of a personal training program. Refusing to be static, Kevin proactively renovates the lounge every ten years and says he’s “always on the lookout for what’s new in the field for equipment”, while staying away from “high tech” fitness equipment to keep things user-friendly. He focuses on investing in exercise equipment that is functional and durable.

In 2015, Kevin added a club-run restaurant in the lounge that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. He focuses the menu on the freshest seasonal ingredients and quality of the food on the menu, changing it three times a year. Serve Bistro is a real adjunct to the whole club atmosphere that helps promote the club as a “destination point”, rather than just a fitness facility.

Never satisfied that his club was all that it could be, Tighe added a squash facility seven years ago, which is run by Jay Naseem. The squash program became so successful that they built a second squash location in Tysons Corner. The facility is certified to host major tournaments put on by the US Squash Association

When asked about his philosophy on running a successful 2600-member racquet and health club for over half a century, Kevin says there are three crucial elements:

1. A first-class facility: in addition to elements previously mentioned elements, five years ago he changed the lighting over tennis and squash courts from the Devoe system to an LED Lighting system. These lights last a much longer time and provide consistent, remote-controlled lighting.

2. Talented, certified staff, and a commitment to employee longevity: Kevin is very proud that most of his staff have been with him for 10 years or more. He has a full time staff director for every department that meet every Tuesday for two hours to create a clear line of communication and teamwork. A few shoutouts: Head Tennis Pro Griff Lamkin, Membership Director Nancy Brough, and Group Exercise Director Mike Marrow have been with the club for 47, 27 and 20 years, respectively.

3. Understanding of club membership and the community that they serve: The average age of the membership is 44 and is usually comprised of singles or couples with one to two children. They offer different tiers of membership including Fitness, Squash and Gold Memberships. Kevin says that it is necessary for the club to “be ahead of the curve with

programs and teaching skills and to stay on top of what’s happening.” He is constantly surveying the community to stay in the know.

In response to the current pickle ball craze, for instance, two years ago the club started a pickleball program by converting three indoor tennis courts into six pickleball courts one night per month and, weather permitting, they have two pickleball courts outside year-round. Their own certified pickleball instructor, Nancy Brough, has been the leading force behind creating and implementing pickleball programs and teaching lessons to players at all levels. At the end of August, the club hosted its first-ever pickleball tournament, open to members and community members. Brough continues, “We have also implemented monthly indoor social on Sunday evenings, where about 30 players get together

to play for two hours, followed by a social with delicious food from our own restaurant, Serve Bistro, and drinks at happy hour prices."

The facility is always lively with music, due to the 108 group exercise classes per week that include aquatic, aerobic, bootcamp, cycle and Les Mills. They also have several personal trainers who spend 20 hours or more per week training. Every new member receives a complimentary individual assessment by a personal trainer. This includes a NIH Graph and a “Your” graph followed by a complimentary personal training session.

Kevin explains that the club’s members are highly educated, working professionals, and he has a good understanding of what they’re looking for in a facility like this. The initial club tour can take up to one hour, as the prospective members tour the facility, discuss membership and get a good sense of how to best utilize the facility for their needs. There are a number of youth memberships, ages 13-18, that are very active, especially when working towards fall sports with trainers.

And for the youngest club-goers, camps are offered including year-round tennis camp for three different levels (beginning/ intermediate/advanced). The very popular Fusion Camp includes tennis instruction, swim instruction and fun field trips. For the squash-inclined, there is a weeklong sleep-away squash camp. In case that’s not enough, the club offers a supervised playroom for the ity bity kiddos, while their parents use the facility.

While Kevin loves his vibrant club, he is most proud of is his

family. He and his wife, Janis, have six kids and five grandchildren. Three of their kids live in the area, including Steve, who works at the club, Lisa, and Lindsey with two kids that play squash weekly at the club. The couple’s son, Aaron, lives in Manhattan with his kids and son Kevin Jr., lives in San Diego with his five-month-old baby. Lastly, their daughter, Leslie, lives in Newport Beach. Kevin loves Christmas, so he relishes spending time with everyone when the extended family comes to McLean for holidays. Kevin’s love for all holidays shines through in the entryway and lounge at the club as it is annually decorated for fall, Halloween, Christmas and plenty of other festive moments. He does this to create a welcoming, homey effect.

Kevin and Janis lived in Potomac, MD for some time, but eventually bought a house on Ingleside Avenue in McLean. They made sure to put in a heated saltwater pool for their grandchildren. It’s pretty clear that they’ve not only made their mark, but have also put their roots down in McLean.

When asked for final thoughts, Kevin emphasizes, “I’m proud to say that every time the McLean Citizens Association puts together the new ‘five year plan’ of McLean pertaining to the the land around the club, that everyone emphasizes that the MCA keep the club, own the land, always have, I do not have to contend with partnerships, and now that I’m retired from my law practice, I plan to continue working with my staff and wonderful members at the club.” I think it’s pretty clear that McLean Racquet and Health Club is here to stay as an asset to the community.

I think it’s pretty clear that McLean Racquet and Health Club is here to stay as an asset to the community.

MEET DR. SARAH ALEMI of Eastern Roots Wellness

By Katie Culligan

Meet Dr. Sarah Alemi of Eastern Roots Wellness. The practice is a Traditional Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture clinic in the heart of McLean that offers individualized, whole-body acupuncture treatments in addition to other holistic treatments like cupping, Gua Sha and herbs. Dr. Alemi is certified in and offers Cosmetic or Facial Rejuvenation Acupuncture as well as Gua Sha treatments for facial rejuvenation.

In addition, she is an Acupuncture Detoxification Specialist (ADS), which allows her to focus on the use of auricular acupuncture for help with trauma, dependancies (i.e. smoking, alcohol) and weight loss. Dr. Alemi’s practices allow her to offer safe, natural and effective treatments for a variety of ailments that are often mistreated or ineffectively treated through western medicine alone. Think of those who have chronic low back pain even after they’ve had surgery for it, or

menopausal women being given no other solution by their doctors except to go on hormone replacement therapy. She states, “by helping alleviate these conditions, we can help you optimize your health and get back to your life.”

Here is a quick overview of how acupuncture works: using thin needles, the doctor is able to engage the nervous system and switch on the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest system”. It’s in this state that the body can focus

"You never know how big of an impact it could have on your well-being.”

on healing. Dr. Alemi offers, "it’s a state we should be in most of the time but, because of our hectic lives, we’re often not. Acupuncture simply reboots the body and supports it in healing itself naturally.”

Some of the most common issues she comes across and treats at the clinic are stress and anxiety, including associated symptoms like poor sleep and GI issues; chronic pain, especially low back and neck pain in addition to migraines; and hormone regulation, regarding irregular or painful periods, infertility and menopause support. While acupuncture can’t change structure, it can change or optimize functioning of the body’s systems.

The clinic’s philosophy is “Ancient healing for modern living.” Dr. Alemi wants others to feel like they have options and answers when it comes to their health. She emphasizes that she wants her patients to know that her practice allows her to join in a collaborative effort with patients for their healthcare. She works together to figure out how to best optimize their health, in the safest and most natural way possible. Most importantly, Dr. Alemi wants her patients to feel heard and not judged. “Having had health issues myself, I understand; I can empathize with my patients."

Dr. Alemi got her start in the wellness world in 2012, then she began her Master’s of Acupuncture program. In 2017, she received her Doctor’s of Acupuncture. She worked as an apprentice of a local acupuncturist and herbalist for six years in the area before opening her own clinic in 2018. Interestingly enough, she originally moved to the D.C. area in 2009 to pursue a career in politics. "I received my Master’s of Public Policy from George Mason University, but decided that path was not for me. Having experienced crippling anxiety and insomnia after moving to the area, this is when I realized I needed to DO something different.” Acupuncture helped her and, considering she wanted to help

others, she sought out acupuncture as a provider. She realized that this medicine allows a focus on the whole body, physical and mental, instead of focusing on specific organ systems or parts of the body. “It’s easy to miss something when you’re so focused on only one part of the person.”

Dr. Alemi jokes that she loves it when skeptics become true believers! More seriously though, she enjoys providing relief to her patients. Not only do they have someone who can really listen to them, but also someone who can assist them with their health concerns when they couldn’t find help before. She delights that she gets to meet a variety of people, who all have a wide range of concerns, and she has to put on her thinking cap for each and every person. It is her greatest satisfaction when her patients reach their wellness goals. She beams, “acupuncture turned my life around, and I love it when I see it do the same for someone else."

To all the doubters out there, Dr Alemi says this, “I understand that some people may be skeptical about the efficacy of acupuncture and quite a few people are afraid of needles. Please know that before I started acupuncture, I felt the same way. Yet, here I am, having found so much relief from it that I want to practice it. The fact that it has been practiced for thousands of years, and now other healthcare professionals are trying to add acupuncture or dry needling to their repertoire, should say something about the efficacy of it. As for the scary needles part; these needles are a fraction of the size of a hypodermic needle. So thin that I need a guide tube to help insert it.

LEARNING LED BY CURIOSITY, CURIOSITY FED BY PLAY

Serving

Trinity’s unique play-based learning curriculum engages each child’s sense of wonder, preparing them to rely on it for growth and life-long learning. Children explore themes through hands-on experiences in a bilingual English/French setting.

The technique I use means that most needles won’t even be felt; for some, worse case scenario, it feels like a bug bite - quick and fleeting. I joke that if it hurts, I’ve done a bad job, so having been in business for a while, I must be doing okay!” She knows this area has a lot of stress and, having suffered from stress and anxiety herself, she wants to be there to offer support. Especially now that we know chronic stress is at the root of a lot of our major diseases, like cardiovascular disease, stroke, and dementia, due to the inflammation it causes. After ten years of practicing, she even convinced her 87 year old father to seek treatment down in Richmond for his low back pain. He’s finally, begrudgingly, confessed that, yes, it helps!

Dr. Alemi understands the importance of humor. “I try to bring humor to my patients, which is something I don’t think many health professionals do.” Although this may not be traditional bedside manner, she thinks it helps patients feel more comfortable with her and her treatments. She also understands that sometimes her patients are going through real hardships and she wants to offer them some reprieve – even if just for the time that they are in her office. Dr. Alemi notes that she does also work with children, especially when it comes to anxiety and ADHD.

Dr. Alemi and her husband, Rod, are both Virginia Tech Alumni. They moved from Richmond to the D.C. area in 2009. Since she works in McLean and his office is in Tysons, they moved near Great Falls this past year to be closer to their jobs. The couple has two ‘pups’: ten year old Brady and seven year old Dexter, who are both rescues and the love, or bane, of their lives, depending on the day. Dr. Alemi jests, “Rod is a golf fanatic and I am a golf neophyte, but I would love to learn one day!”

Remarking on her journey to where she is today, she admits “I never considered being an acupuncturist –I didn’t even know it was a career choice until I started school for it in 2012. Even though it took me a while to find my way in terms of my career, I wouldn’t change a thing. I love my job. I love my patients. I love how acupuncture is able to make you truly feel better: physically, mentally and emotionally. Yes, it seems a little out-there, but give it a try. You never know how big of an impact it could have on your well-being.”

A Guide for Families Moving During Back-to-School Season THE ABCs OF MOVING:

By Cortez Mahdy / Petra Moving Company

Back-to-school season is here! For some families, this not only means getting ready for classes, but also tackling the exciting challenges of moving. As a trusted provider to families on the move in Northern Virginia and Maryland, Petra Moving Company knows first-hand the stress of moving during this busy season. To help ensure your move is not only smooth, but budget-friendly, Petra Moving Company is offering 15% off moves for all teachers and college students. Let’s dive into the ABCs of moving and discover how Petra Moving Company can make your back-to-school move feel like a new adventure.

A IS FOR ADVANCED PLANNING

Moving into a new home is an exciting opportunity but requires careful planning. Especially during back-to-school

season. It’s important to start planning as early as possible and the best way to start is by creating a to-do list. A good todo list should include a budget, move date, packing materials, and a check list of your belongings.

In the case where you want to hire professional movers, reach out to Petra Moving Company for a free estimate. Our expert team will work closely with you to develop a moving plan tailored to your needs. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to focus on your first day back at school, while we do all the heavy lifting. We're not just your movers, we're your partners in this exciting journey.

B IS FOR BUDGETING

Back-to-school expenses can add up quickly and the same goes for moving. One of the most effective ways to save is by decluttering. Take the time to sort through your belongings

and throw out or donate items you no longer need. Another cost-effective way to save is by getting free or low-cost packaging supplies from local stores and utilizing old clothing as padding to save on materials. Additionally, taking advantage of special offers and deals, like Petra Moving Company’s exclusive deal of 15% off moves for all teachers and students, can contribute to a budget-friendly move.

C IS FOR CAREFUL PACKING

With the start of the school season and preparing for activities, packing can be the most stressful task when moving to a new home. However, it is the most crucial. Our expert team of packers at Petra Moving Company are here to alleviate that stress. Our movers will catalog all your possessions, expertly pack your belongings, and ensure that everything is secure. You can have peace of mind knowing that your valuables will arrive at your new home safe and sound. The back-to-school season is a time of new beginnings, and Petra Moving Company is here to make your family's transition to a new home seamless and budget-friendly. With our exclusive offer of 15% off moves for all teachers and college students, your move can be a stress-free adventure that sets the stage for a successful academic year. Let Petra Moving Company be your partner in turning your back-to-school move into an exciting chapter for your family. Contact us today to get started on your journey!

INDEPENDENCE LANDSCAPE

The Heartbeat of McLean, Virginia:

THE UNPARALLELED CHARM OF SMALL BUSINESSES

By Brian Mason

Nestled amidst the vibrant tapestry of the Washington D.C. Metropolitan area lies McLean, a beautiful and affluent suburb of Northern Virginia. While its picturesque landscapes and opulent homes often capture the spotlight, the true heartbeat of McLean lies in something more foundational: its vibrant community of small businesses.

As a top-producing real estate agent in the DMV area, I am continually captivated by the unique character and appeal that these local entrepreneurs bring to McLean. Today, I want to shed light on the irreplaceable role that small businesses play in crafting the tight-knit, warm community we proudly call home.

THE UNIQUENESS OF MCLEAN’S SMALL BUSINESSES

From the quaint boutiques that line Old Dominion Drive to the cozy eateries spread across the town, each small business in McLean contributes to the area's unmistakable charm. These aren't big-box retailers; they are unique enterprises that reflect the passions and personalities of their proprietors.

The Organic Butcher of McLean, for example, is more than just a place to buy the meats. It’s a place where the owners know their customers by name and will happily share the tale of every local farm from which they source. It’s not merely a shop; it’s a narrative — a manifestation of community health and wellness.

HOW SMALL BUSINESSES STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITY

Small businesses are often the strongest supporters of local causes. They sponsor youth sports teams, contribute to local charities, and host community events. This deep-rooted support reflects their vested interest in the community's wellbeing, and in turn, nurtures a strong sense of local pride among residents.

Furthermore, small businesses foster interpersonal connections. The casual conversations that occur while eating

at McLean Family Restaurant or during a consultation at McLean Animal Hospital often turn into lifelong friendships. In this way, small businesses are not merely commercial establishments; they are the gathering places that knit our community tightly together of people who truly care about you and your family.

ECONOMIC HEALTH AND SUSTAINABILITY

Beyond their role as community pillars, small businesses are also integral to the economic health and sustainability of McLean. They create jobs, circulate revenue within the local economy, and often occupy spaces in historic buildings, preserving the charm and character of our neighborhoods. This stewardship of both community and history is a compelling reason why supporting small businesses is not just pleasant—it’s essential. As someone deeply involved in McLean’s housing market, I can attest to the undeniable appeal that this vibrant local economy has for potential homebuyers.

REAL ESTATE AND COMMUNITY: AN INSEPARABLE CONNECTION

When you invest in a home in McLean, you are not just buying property; you are becoming a part of this exceptional community. As a real estate agent, I view my role as not only helping clients find their dream homes but also guiding them towards becoming integral members of this community. By spotlighting and supporting our local businesses, I aim to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of what makes McLean so special. I am not just your agent; I am your community advocate. It has been a learning curve to do these videos. I promise they will continue to improve as I learn. The fact is, I might have mastered real estate, but videography, directing, interviewing, and editing is a new venture that is worth the time and effort.

If you are a small business or maybe know of a small business that would like to be featured, please let me know. There is no cost, just some emails and your time for the film. brian@ signaturemoverealestate.com

McLeanLiving Paints the Town Pink:

A GLAMOROUS EVENING FOR CHARITY

Sara Carias Paula Alvano, Karen Cis, Grisselle Diek & Daughter, Alicia Bu & Daughter Valentina Bu, Emmy Hoffman, Gabriela Ackerman, Maria Lacombe

Brian Mason, Gloria Fonseca, Dr Lorena Khouri Popp, Nuha Handoush, Chris Mazzella

Eesha Madan, Neetus Madan, Eva Madan

Mayra Pineda, Madeline Lamberti, Mary Guernica, Nikki Feldman, Maria Feldman

PHOTOS BY TATIANA DOVE

Stacy Zellers, Jenny Gregory, Julia Zellers, Juliet Gregory, Emily Zellers, Sarah Watson, Evie Watson

Integrated Psychology Associates of McLean, LLC

A balanced approach to life.

Eva-Maria

MD, FAPA and Dr. Debra Brosius, Psy.D.

www.debrabrosius.com • www.ipamclean.com

Integrated Psychology Associates of McLean is a shared endeavor in collaborative and integrated care by Eva-Maria Theodosiadis, MD, FAPA, and Debra N. Brosius, Psy.D. to provide comprehensive services to McLean and its surrounding communities. Along with our associates, we offer comprehensive services to meet the psychiatric, assessment and therapy needs of our diverse community. Clients of all ages are welcome.

Laila Khan & Safiya Khan

McLEAN LIVING | 21 © Best

Version Media

Gloria Fonseca & Andrew Clark

Dr Lorena Khouri Popp with her kids Sammy and Leah Khouri

Nathaly Revollo-Miranda ,Marie Ramos ,Rebecca Antzoulatos , Cassie Goss

Ursula Munasifi, Renee Munasifi, Chris Harney

For beachfront living, there’s no better place under the sun.

Virginia Beach is a treasure trove of arts, culture, and natural beauty. It’s no wonder, then, why Virginia was recently named the best state to retire by WalletHub, outscoring Florida and the Carolinas in a national study. No community captures all of this area’s grandeur quite like Westminster-Canterbury on Chesapeake Bay.

Ideally situated on the city’s scenic coastline, our bayfront campus offers luxurious residences with gorgeous views, fabulous amenities, and the full continuum of care under one inclusive fee, all available now. And there is even more to come with the Bay Tower, our brand-new 22-story Independent Living tower. Visit today to see for yourself!

Want to learn more about resort-style living? Please call (800) 996-9794 for more information or to schedule a personal tour today. Or see us online: https://www.wcbay.com/

Find

For an alternative Virginia Beach lifestyle option, check out our sister rental community, Opus Select. Visit www.opusliving.com.

give life to events

By Dani Banegas

It is amazing how many people around us engage in beautiful, splendid, and unique pursuits. As September unfolds, I invite you to meet Elenaan artist who gives life to romantic events using colors and brushes.

Elena Fay is a fashion illustrator, live event artist and mom based in Maryland, US. She is a selftaught artist and entrepreneur who started her journey in 2013 by posting cute little sketches on her blog and Instagram. Back then, a few local boutiques asked her to sketch guests at their private events and Elena found her true love for live event painting. With a passion for creating unique and colorful art, Elena brings a fun and whimsical touch to everything she does.

As a live event artist, Elena paints at weddings, brand events and private parties, capturing the energy and vibe of the moment with her lively guest portraits or canvas painting. Live event painting is a unique and entertaining experience where Elena captures the magic of any event as it unfolds.

C2reallyknowshowtotailortheirteaching tosuiteachindividualstudent’sneeds.Every timeIwenttosomeoneatC2forhelp,theydid theirabsolutebesttogivemeadditionalstudy materialsandguidance.”

PHOTO BY SKYLAR WYATT

When she's not painting at events, Elena can be found creating beautiful watercolor art for licensing on products like puzzles, fabric, and home decor. Her unique style is characterized by bold colors, playful patterns, and intricate details that make each piece a work of art.

With years of experience in the art world, Elena has developed a keen eye for detail, and she takes pride in creating art that is both beautiful and functional and brings pure joy to her clients. Whether she's painting live at an event or creating custom art, Elena's passion for art shines through in everything she does.

Taking inspiration from her garden and everyday beauty, Elena’s work captures her subjects in a playful and whimsical manner, exploring bright colors and different textures. She spends her days trying to notice all the small moments of magic and bringing it to the pages of her sketchbook.

When she is not painting or designing, you can find her gardening, planning trips for her live events or baking while trying to keep up with her two little ones.

Ensure you seize the chance to support local artists and consider having her add a detail to forever remember that special event.

Instagram @elenafayart

Website elenafay.com

Volunteering at Sri Siva Vishnu Temple

By Eesha Somasundar, Reporter

The 90’s were filled with the rise of HipHop, the fall of the soviet union, and the completion of The Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Maryland.

The temple was built in order to bring awareness and comfort to all immigrants who believe in the Hindu faith. The temple is also welcome to people who are curious about Hinduism and want to learn more.

“I have been working as a volunteer in the temple for more than 8 years.”

Vijay Velurthi said. The temple has been accepting volunteers of all different ethnicities and ages for several years now. All the volunteers, also referred to as devotees, are happy to spend their time doing what they love, serving the

community.

“I want to help other people. Communitywise, lots of immigrants need help and so the temple helps get people off the ground.” Mr. Velurthi names a few reasons why he loves to volunteer at the temple. This is prevalent with a lot of the volunteers as they value the interconnectedness of the neighborhood and the visitors that come.

“My favorite thing about volunteering at the temple is making lunch for the gods.” Ms. Madhuri, who has volunteered at the temple for 9+ years, comes every day because of her devotion to the temple.

The temple also helps the community as they hold classes free to the public. The classes are open to anyone of any age. Classes include SAT help, Yoga,

Spoken Samskrtham and more. Classes are either online or in person, ranging throughout the entire week.

“Each day is a memorable and favorable moment to me.” said Ananth Iyengar, the manager of the Sri Siva Vishnu Temple. “[The temple] is a good place to work and volunteer and you will be serving the community.” Mr. Iyengar also jokingly adds, “You can also get some peace away from your busy life and problems. Indirectly you will be a part of serving yourself as well.”

“Each day you get to meet new people.” The temple is a very welcoming place and invites anyone of any age or ethnicity to volunteer.

“Namaste.”

Photo by Eesha Somasundar

Who’s Your Fantasy Friend?

By Andrea Anderson Polk

We all have a Fantasy Friend we turn to that keeps us feeling safe, needed, loved, special, and important. Fantasy Friends can be any type of imagined companion or distraction in your life that you turn to and fantasize about when you are having a bad day, hurting, stressed, or struggling.

Your Fantasy Friend can look like:

• A skinnier, more attractive version of you.

• A fancy new job, promotion, or position of power and influence.

• A person you desire to be in a relationship with, to pursue you, and pay attention to you.

• A perfectly decorated home in the best neighborhood that everyone envies and admires.

• Escaping to exotic places with no responsibilities or commitments.

• Children attending the top-rated schools and universities.

• Romanticizing a previous version of yourself where you had more success, more adventure, or more wealth.

• A larger audience: All the claps, follows, friends, and likes. None of these things are bad or wrong in and of themselves. The problem arises when you use them to repeatedly escape the reality of your pain (i.e., insecurity, rejection, loss, and loneliness).

We’ve all been hurt and we’ve all experienced painful situations and relationships such as heartbreak, the loss of a dream or a loved one, and not getting that promotion or position. Maybe you have recently lost your job, got diagnosed with an illness, gone through a divorce, infidelity, a bad breakup, or regret a missed opportunity to pursue a dream. Perhaps it's a past pain that shows up in the present such as anxiety, stress, perfectionism, and overwhelm.

Your Fantasy Friend makes you feel better and it’s a sneaky defense mechanism. Fantasizing is escaping a painful reality by longing for and imagining a different circumstance or relationship.

FOR EXAMPLE:

A woman is feeling inadequate among her skinny friends. She was recently rejected by a love interest, and she did not receive the work promotion. She begins fantasizing about what she would look like five or ten pounds lighter, what she would wear, whom she would impress, and how powerful she would feel. At this point, she is not counting calories, skipping meals, or starving herself. She does not have an eating disorder and she is not addicted to weightloss supplements or drugs, at least for now. However, the fantasy is a defense mechanism that begins to interfere with her daily life and if not addressed, will gradually become toxic and all-consuming.

Deep down she believes the lie that her worth is tied to her appearance. Her Fantasy Friend, a prettier, skinnier version of herself, provides her with a false sense of power and security where she is beautiful and important. She entertains these images rather than honestly facing her painful feelings of inadequacy and rejection.

Fantasy begins with an unmet desire, and because you do not have the thing or relationship you desire in reality, you begin to imagine or fantasize that you do. Essentially, you live in denial. You deny that the circumstances and people in your life cannot always meet your expectations or give you what you want.

I've found in my work with clients, that denial is at the root of dependency. People who struggle with addictive behaviors, (whether it be work, a substance, or a relationship), share one thing in common: They want to escape their current reality because it is hard and scary. They do not want to be in the present moment, so they fantasize about an imaginary future. Their drug of choice is denial, and their Fantasy Friend is waiting to provide comfort. They fantasize about their next success, next party, next drink, next lover, or next deal long before they begin any of these activities.

Next time your Fantasy Friend calls out to you and woos you, remember these companions are imposters who offer a temporary fix ultimately leaving you empty and feeling alone.

THE GOOD NEWS IS:

What you can name, you can heal. And once you name your Fantasy Friend, healing can begin.

Who or what is your Fantasy Friend?

Andrea Anderson Polk is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private psychotherapy practice in McLean. She is also the author of The Cuckoo Syndrome: The Secret to Breaking Free from Unhealthy Relationships, Toxic Thinking, and Self-Sabotaging Behavior. Learn more about Andrea, her book, and how to work with her one-on-one by visiting her website: www.andreaandersonpolk.com

Photo by Andrea Anderson Polk

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