CLEA LIVING M N
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DEAR McLEAN RESIDENTS,
Spring is a season of growth, and in this issue, we’re celebrating individuals and businesses that embody that spirit. Our April cover features Karan Singh and Anne Landry, a power couple proving that business and partnership go hand in hand. Inside, we take you behind the scenes of the Vernon Davis Cover Soirée, an unforgettable evening honoring his incredible journey as an athlete, actor, writer, and family man. We also spotlight Phoenix Global Shipping, a company driving international trade with innovation and e iciency. As always, community remains at the heart of McLean Living. This month, we proudly support the McLean Community Center as it marks 50 years of serving and enriching our town.
As I reflect on our community, I'm filled with gratitude and love. Living in McLean, we're blessed to be part of something special - a vibrant, caring neighborhood that feels like one big, happy family. We're lucky to call this place home, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the excitement of our nation's capital.
As we navigate the ups and downs of life, I want you to know that I believe in the strength of our community and the resilience of the American spirit. I believe in the power of individual freedom, limited government intervention, and the importance of personal responsibility. I believe that we should be working together to create opportunities for economic growth, to support our local businesses, and to ensure that our community remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
As we look to the future, I'm filled with hope and excitement. I know that together, we can make a di erence. We can create a brighter, more loving, and more compassionate world - one that's filled with laughter, joy, and adventure.
So let's keep shining our light, McLean! Let's keep spreading love, kindness, and compassion. Let's be the beacon of hope that our world needs.
And to those who are worried about the future, I want to say that I hear you. I know that we face challenges, but I believe in us. I believe that together, we can overcome anything.
Thank you for being an amazing community. I'm honored to call you my friends.
With love and appreciation,
EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS
DENTIST
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Dr. Negar Tehrani | Aura Dentistry 703-748-1900 | auradentistry.com
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
Trinity Preschool of McLean 703-790-2767 | umtrinity.org/preschool
FURNITURE
Joni Foerter | Front Porch Furniture Rescue 703-543-9248 | myfurniturerescue.com
DERMATOLOGY
Dr. Pantea Tamjidi, MD, F.A.A.D. | Tamjidi Skin Institute 703-345-6677 | tamjidiskininstitute.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
LUXURY JEWELRY
Alicia Villars | Helvetia 703-401-9679 | www.Helvetiajewelry.com
CUSTOMIZED SKIN CARE
Sona Sut | Derma Care 571-606-3436 | www.dermacareva.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 571.290.2219 | 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 IG: @BrianMasonDMVBIZ
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Stephanie Q. Lawrence | Vinson Hall 540-314-8745 | vinsonshall.org
INFANT FEEDING DIFFICULTIES & LASER FRENECTOMY
Dr. Rishita Jaju | Smile Wonders 571-350-3663 | smilewonders.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
BUSINESS BROKER
Erika Baez-Grimes | Transworld Business Advisor 804.750.3008 | www.NovaBusinessInquiry.com
LEGAL SERVICES
Amy Griggs | Tysons Trial Law, PLLC 703-643-4021 | www.tysonstriallaw.com
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Meet Anne Landry & Karan Singh
By SOFIA ROMAN | Photos by MYRTLE ROY
As spring blossoms, we introduce a remarkable family at the heart of our beloved McLean. Anne Landry and Karan Singh have built a life that seamlessly blends entrepreneurship, love, and community. As business owners, parents, and engaged members of their neighborhood, they exemplify the art of balancing success with personal fulfillment.
Anne and Karan describe their love story as a three-part movie. It all began in 1994 in the vibrant city of Miami, Florida, where they first met while Karan was starting his career in aviation. After two years of love, life took them on separate paths, and they lost all contact for 12 long years. But fate had other plans. In 2008, they reunited, and Karan left his life in India to be with Anne.
They first lived in Washington, D.C., but later moved to McLean—a place where their business acumen meets deeprooted family values.
Today, the Singh family includes their two youngest children, Kian (11) and Kai (9), along with their older siblings, Karthik (23) and Kimaya (26). And let’s not forget their beloved cat, Nami, who is very much part of the family.
Anne, a dynamic entrepreneur in the beauty industry, is the co-founder of Bloom Salon, a high-end yet welcoming salon in Tysons Corner. More than just a salon, Bloom is a community—a collective of expert stylists who have worked together for over 15 years. Women-owned and
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minority-owned, Bloom prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity, and excellence. "We recycle, we don’t put anything in the drain system, and we use environmentally friendly, non-toxic products because we care about our clients just as much as we care about ourselves," Anne explains.
Karan, on the other hand, has taken his background in aviation and business to new heights. After earning a degree in Aeronautical Science and an Airline Transport Pilot License, he spent a decade as an airline captain before transitioning into business. His ventures include a private jet company specializing in advanced air mobility and Rania, a Michelinstarred Indian restaurant in Washington, D.C. Designed to be an exquisite dining destination, Rania's interior was handcrafted in India, shipped in five containers, and reconstructed in D.C. Most recently, Rania hosted the White House Diwali party, further solidifying its status as a premier culinary institution.
Though their businesses may seem worlds apart—one focused on beauty, the other on fine dining and aviation—Anne and Karan share a common philosophy: an unwavering commitment to
customer service. “Whether it’s a salon or a restaurant, it’s all about creating an unforgettable experience,” Karan notes. “The customer is at the heart of everything we do.”
Their secret to managing it all? Flexibility and trust. “I’ve learned that success isn’t about micromanaging—it’s about empowering others,” Karan says. By building strong teams, both Anne and Karan have created businesses that thrive without demanding every moment of their time, allowing them to focus on what matters most: their family and the community they love.
Despite their busy schedules, they prioritize quality time with their children—whether supporting their academic and creative pursuits or enjoying McLean’s natural beauty. The family loves spending time outdoors, with Scott’s Run being one of their favorite spots. They also share a passion for skiing and boating. Karan enjoys tennis, while Anne finds joy in fitness and Pilates.
Their eldest, Kimaya, has followed an entrepreneurial path of her own, launching Mirchi, a globally recognized fashion label making waves in the U.S. and beyond.
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WHY THEY LOVE MCLEAN
“We love McLean for so many reasons—the excellent schools, the walkability, the sense of safety, and the incredible community,” Anne shares. “We’ve lived in di erent places, but McLean has always felt like home.”
The couple enjoys dining at local gems like Divan and supporting other locally owned businesses, embracing the charm of family-run establishments that reflect the authenticity they cherish in their own businesses. Anne especially enjoys the McLean Farmers Market in the summer.
With their entrepreneurial spirit, deep family bonds, and commitment to giving back, Anne Landry and Karan Singh are more than just business leaders—they are an inspiring testament to what it means to build a life filled with passion and purpose.
Family Fun Fact
The Singh family shares a love for aviation, so it's no surprise that their favorite movie is Top Gun. However, Karan's all-time favorite is the classic The Last of the Mochicans— a must-see in his book!
Guiding Homeowners to the Perfect Lighting: Balancing Function and Aesthetics in Every Space
By GLORIA MILOTTE - DE Design Group Division Managers
When it comes to selecting decorative and recessed lighting fixtures and determining the ideal placement, we strive to guide our clients toward the most suitable options for their specific needs. The current lighting market is flooded with thousands of choices, and every project is unique, so it’s essential to tailor the selection to each space. At the core of our approach is a commitment to understanding both the functional requirements and aesthetic preferences of our clients, in addition to collaborating closely with installers to grasp the full scope of the project. This ensures that we recommend fixtures that not only meet but exceed the client’s lighting goals, providing an environment that balances both form and function.
For homeowners embarking on a new build or multi-room renovation, curating the perfect lighting scheme can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it's easy for clients to feel overwhelmed by endless scrolling through online catalogs. This is where our expertise comes into play. We stay ahead of the curve, keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and o erings from a wide range of reputable manufacturers. With this knowledge, we can quickly identify a client’s design style and present them with fixture options from trusted brands that align seamlessly with their vision. By doing so, we simplify the selection process and ensure that the final lighting choices enhance the overall design of the space. We look forward to helping brighten up your space.
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Spring is Here!
Easy Ways to Refresh Your Home for the New Season
By MERRIE JOY with Merrie Joy Interiors
Are you just starting your spring cleaning? Ready to swap out your winter decor, and looking for ways to refresh your spaces as the weather warms up?
As the seasons change, so should our spaces. Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your home, clearing out the remnants of winter and embracing a fresh, airy feel. With longer days and blooming landscapes as inspiration, simple updates—like lighter fabrics, fresh color palettes, and nature-inspired décor—can instantly brighten your space. Whether you’re looking for a full refresh or just a few seasonal touches, these design ideas will help you welcome spring with style and ease.
SWAP HEAVY FABRICS FOR LIGHTER LINENS
The transition from winter to spring always feels like a big one! As the weather warms up, many of us feel the urge to refresh our homes to match the season. During the winter months, we tend to layer our spaces with heavier fabrics like velvet and faux fur to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. But as spring arrives, it’s time to swap those out for lighter alternatives.
Try replacing plush fur blankets with soft cotton throws, and swap out velvet or darkcolored pillow covers for lighter shades like soft mauve or patterns with fresh, airy tones. These small changes can instantly brighten your space, making it feel more open, refreshing, and ready for the new season.
This goes for bedding as well. Heavy comforters and flannel sheets are perfect for winter, but as the temperatures rise, it’s time for something lighter. Try switching to breathable fabrics like linen or cotton for a crisp, fresh feel. Opt for soft, neutral tones to brighten up your bedroom and create a light, airy atmosphere that feels perfect for the season.
INTRODUCE SPRING FLOWERS AND PLANTS
As spring arrives, refresh your home by incorporating potted plants or seasonal stems to bring in a touch of nature. Swap out winter greenery, such as evergreens and heavy branches, for lighter, more delicate alternatives. Consider faux or fresh hydrangeas in soft blues or whites, airy green stems, or dried florals in muted pink or mauve tones. These subtle additions create a fresh, inviting atmosphere and e ortlessly transition your space into the new season.
replacing a heavy co ee table with something lighter or introducing a new accent chair for a fresh update. Small changes, like adding crisp spring linens in the kitchen and bathroom or incorporating woven baskets for stylish storage, can make a big impact. This is also the perfect time to declutter and let go of anything that no longer fits your home’s aesthetic, creating a space that feels both refreshed and intentional.
Refreshing your home for spring doesn’t have to mean a complete makeover. With just a few thoughtful changes, your home can feel lighter, brighter, and ready to welcome the
CRAFTING SERENE SPACES
Innovative interior design, home renovation & comprehensive multi-room design and decor solutions.
RETHINK YOUR LAYOUT
Spring cleaning is also a great opportunity to rethink your home’s layout and improve functionality. As you refresh your space, consider rearranging furniture to create a more open, airy feel. If a piece no longer serves your style or needs, swap it out—perhaps
Email: merrie@merriejoyinteriors.com
Mobile & Text: 703-798-7513
Phoenix Global Shipping Rising Above the Challenges of Global Trade
By ELLE PARKER
In the world of international trade, success is often defined by the ability to navigate complexities, overcome challenges, and adapt to ever-changing market dynamics. Phoenix Global Shipping embodies this spirit of resilience and transformation. Founded on the principles of perseverance and strategic problem-solving, the company is dedicated to making global sourcing and importing seamless for businesses of all sizes.
For Phoenix Global Shipping, the phoenix symbolizes more than just a name—it represents the company’s journey of reinvention, triumph over adversity, and commitment to helping clients rise above the complexities of global trade. With a motto of “Rise Above. Be Relentless.”, Phoenix Global Shipping provides the expertise businesses need to navigate international sourcing challenges e iciently and e ectively.
Phoenix Global Shipping o ers a wide array of services, from product sourcing and manufacturing to providing custombranded promotional products. Whether it’s apparel, drinkware, o ice supplies, or specialty fabrics sourced directly from Egypt, Bangladesh, and China, the company ensures high-quality solutions tailored to meet each client’s needs. Additionally, they o er premium Egyptian towels, linens, and bedding at competitive prices.
But Phoenix Global Shipping is more than just a sourcing company—it is a strategic partner. Businesses working with Phoenix Global Shipping gain valuable insights into duty rates, customs regulations, and risk mitigation strategies, helping them avoid potential delays and unexpected costs in the import process.
Phoenix Global Shipping operates on a set of unwavering principles:
• Find common ground—shared human experiences transcend differences.
• Be self-motivated and disciplined—Drive success through determination and focus.
• Sustenance comes from the Creator, not humans—Moving Forward Despite Fear
• Be willing to su er and sacrifice—success comes with challenges, and overcoming them is key.
• Think globally, act locally—Understand international markets while supporting local economies.
• Rise above circumstances—rise above adversity: transform challenges into growth opportunities.
go find it—believe, adapt, and persevere.
• Seek knowledge and wisdom—growth comes from continuous learning.
• Be willing to show up—Show up consistently: Small actions lead to big growth.
• Practice gratitude—appreciate the present and find joy amidst challenges.
• Embrace the suck—Embrace challenges; resilience is what
Phoenix Global Shipping is more than a logistics provider—it is a partner in growth, helping businesses expand their reach without the burdens of supply chain uncertainties. By o ering personalized sourcing solutions and expert guidance, the company empowers businesses to focus on what truly matters: growth, innovation, and success.
For those looking to simplify their global trade operations while maintaining quality and e iciency, Phoenix Global Shipping is the trusted ally they need. With a relentless commitment to service and an unwavering drive to help businesses succeed, Phoenix Global Shipping continues to rise, redefining the future of international trade.
THE WOMAN BEHIND THE BRAND: SUMEYA GIBRIL
At the helm of Phoenix Global Shipping is Sumeya Gibril, a Licensed Customs broker with over a decade of experience in the supply chain industry. Her journey is nothing short of inspiring—an immigrant to the U.S. at the age of 11, the youngest of eight siblings, a U.S. Army veteran, and a former U.S. Customs and Border Protection O icer. Sumeya’s deep-rooted expertise in global trade stems from her family’s longstanding involvement in the import-export business. Today, she channels that knowledge and experience to help businesses streamline their global operations with confidence.
Navigating the complexities of international trade requires specialized knowledge. As a Licensed Customs Broker, Sumeya Gibril and her team ensure that all imports comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations. From documentation and tariff classification to customs clearance and compliance, Phoenix Global Shipping provides businesses with a streamlined, stress-free importing experience.
Medical-Grade Over-the-Counter Skincare: What’s the Difference?
BY SONA SUT Licensed Master Aesthetician
Not all skincare is created equal. If you’ve ever wondered whether medical-grade skincare is worth the investment or if over-the-counter (OTC) products can deliver similar results, the key di erences come down to potency, formulation, and clinical testing.
Medical-grade skincare is backed by science, formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients like retinoids, growth factors, hyaluronic acid, and stabilized vitamin C. These products penetrate deeper, targeting skin concerns at the cellular level for real, longterm results. Unlike OTC products, they undergo rigorous clinical testing to ensure e icacy.
On the other hand, department store skincare often prioritizes luxurious packaging and marketing over potency. While they may feel nice and provide temporary hydration, they typically contain lower concentrations of active ingredients—meaning they’re less e ective for treating issues like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and acne.
If you’re serious about skin transformation, medical-grade skincare is a game-changer. A professional consultation ensures you get products that actually deliver results.
Pro Tip: My favorite brands combine medical-grade e icacy with botanical ingredients and advanced skincare innovations, o ering the best of both worlds for truly transformative, professional-grade skincare.
Milena Bu, Agent
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Navigating Medical Bills After a Car Accident: What Every Family Should Know
BY AMY GRIGGS, Tysons Trial Law, PLLC
An unexpected accident can change your life in an instant. Along with the stress of recovery, many families in Northern Virginia are left struggling to understand who pays for their medical bills—and how to avoid getting stuck with unexpected expenses. If you or a loved one has been injured in an car accident, these essential steps can help protect your financial well-being.
STEP 1: MAKE SURE YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE PAYS FIRST
Many injured individuals mistakenly assume that medical bills should be paid through an auto insurance claim.
However, in most cases, it is in your best interest to ensure that your health insurance pays first.
Why? Health insurance companies have pre-negotiated rates with medical providers, meaning they will pay much less for treatments than what you would be billed directly. If you wait for an auto insurance settlement to pay your bills, the medical providers may send them to collections, hurting your credit while you wait for your case to resolve.
Tip: When receiving treatment, provide your health insurance information first and avoid signing anything that waives your right to bill health insurance.
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STEP 2: UNDERSTAND MEDICAL LIENS
If you don’t have health insurance—or if your health insurer refuses to pay due to a potential personal injury settlement—hospitals may assert a medical lien on your case. This means they expect to be paid out of your eventual settlement. While this may sound reasonable, medical liens often result in higher bills because providers charge full rates instead of insurance-negotiated prices.
If you have health insurance, the type of insurance policy is important. Virginia is an anti-subrogation state, which means that if you receive money from a personal injury claim, your health insurance usually cannot assert a lien to repay itself from those funds. There are exceptions for certain plans under federal law which allow subrogation, like if you have an ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) plan, a FEHBA (Federal Employees Health Benefits Act) plan, or if you are a Medicare or Medicaid recipient.
A personal injury attorney can identify and negotiate these liens, often significantly reducing what you owe.
Tip: If a provider refuses to bill your health insurance and instead tries to get paid from your injury claim, contact an attorney to discuss your options.
STEP 3: USE MEDPAY FOR IMMEDIATE MEDICAL COSTS
Virginia auto insurance policies often include Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay), which can help pay medical bills regardless of who was at fault. MedPay is a way to cover immediate medical expenses related to injuries from a car crash, up to the policy limits. Even if you caused the collision, MedPay still applies. Unlike health insurance, MedPay does not require deductibles or co-pays. MedPay can be used to cover out-of-pocket costs like co-pays, prescriptions, and physical therapy. This coverage is typically optional, so check your auto policy to see if you have it.
Tip: If you have MedPay, submit claims quickly to get reimbursed for expenses not covered by health insurance.
STEP 4: AVOID QUICK SETTLEMENT TRAPS
After a collision, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may o er a fast settlement—but accepting it too soon can be a costly mistake. Once you accept a settlement, you cannot ask for more money later, even if unexpected medical costs arise. Some injuries, like concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately but require
treatment weeks or months later. The insurance company’s speedy settlement may short-change your recovery by failing to o er compensation for pain and su ering, emotional distress, lost wages, future medical expenses, inconvenience, and more.
A personal injury attorney can estimate future costs and help you avoid settling for less than you need and are entitled to under Virginia law. Don’t sign anything from the insurance company without consulting a lawyer.
Tip: Never sign a settlement agreement without fully understanding the long-term impact on your finances and health.
LOCAL FAMILIES DESERVE PROTECTION
Understanding how medical bills are paid after an accident can prevent unnecessary financial hardship. At Tysons Trial Law, we help McLean and Northern Virginia families navigate the complexities of medical claims, insurance disputes, and injury settlements. If you or a loved one has been injured, our experienced team is here to guide you through the process—so you can focus on recovery.
202.643.1549
50 Years of Enriching Lives
By SOFIA ROMAN
As the writer of the feature article, one of my questions is why you love the McLean community, and believe it or not, inside the answer I always get, I find the McLean Community Center. It is unbelievable that it has been 50 years standing for the community this year. For half a century, MCC has stood as a beacon of connection, culture, and enrichment for the residents of McLean, Virginia. Its evolution from concept to reality is a reflection of the dedication of community organizers who saw the need for a central hub where neighbors could come together to learn, celebrate, and grow.
Nicknamed “The Center of it All,” MCC has become an integral part of McLean, o ering a space where residents can explore new interests, engage with neighbors, and enjoy enriching experiences. Generations of McLean families have benefitted from its educational programs,
cultural events, and social gatherings, creating a legacy of community togetherness.
The idea for MCC was sparked by Robert Ames Alden, a devoted community organizer who envisioned a village green in McLean—complete with a library, a park, and a community center. Through years of persistence, the necessary land was acquired, a referendum was passed, and a sustainable framework was established to support the center’s programs. MCC o icially opened its doors in 1975 as an agency of the Fairfax County Government and has been administered by an 11-member governing board ever since.
When MCC first opened, it operated with just three sta members, o ering a handful of classes, performances at The Alden Theatre, and special events. Over the years, its programming has expanded exponentially to cater to all ages and interests. Today, MCC produces the beloved McLean Day festival—an event that celebrated its centennial in 2015 and now attracts more than 10,000 attendees annually. Other notable programs include the Independence Day Celebration at Langley High School, over 300 diverse classes, and initiatives like the Seniors in Action program and the Youth Ambassador program. The Alden Theatre has also become a premier venue, hosting internationally renowned artists.
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KEY MILESTONES IN MCC’S HISTORY
Throughout its 50-year history, MCC has achieved many significant milestones:
• 1975: Grand opening of the center.
• 1979: First 4th of July Fireworks event.
• 1984: Signed a memorandum of understanding with Fairfax County.
• 1987-1990: Multiple renovations and expansions, leading to a greater variety of programs.
• 2000: 25th Anniversary celebration featuring a special performance by John Lithgow.
• 2004: Establishment of the annual Martin Luther King Day celebration.
• 2019: Completion of a major renovation and expansion project.
As MCC embarks on its next chapter, Executive Director Betsy May-Salazar envisions a future where the center continues to evolve to meet the needs of the community. “The programs we o er today are very di erent from the programs o ered 50 years ago and will probably be very di erent in 50 years,” she says. “But if we continue to fulfill our role of encouraging connections and being a resource, I believe the center will continue to be vibrant and important
to this community.” To ensure ongoing relevance, MCC conducts an annual community feedback survey to shape future programs and services.
GET INVOLVED IN THE CELEBRATION
MCC has planned a series of special events to mark its golden anniversary, including a commemorative tree planting, a typographical sculpture unveiling, a mural dedication, and a grand Community 50th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, October 18, from 5-10 p.m.
For more information on MCC’s history, upcoming events, and ways to get involved, visit McLean Community Center’s o icial 50th Anniversary page.
As it enters its next half-century, MCC remains steadfast in its mission to serve as a gathering place where McLean residents of all ages can learn, celebrate, and connect—just as its founders envisioned 50 years ago.
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While we Love Our Partners, Do
By YOUSOF FARYAR – Fitness Lab VA, Transformation Coach
It’s a question worth asking. In the chaos of daily life—work deadlines, chores, kids, errands, and social obligations—it’s easy to get swept up in doing rather than being. We become e icient teammates, co-parents, or household managers, but somewhere along the way, we may forget the why—why we chose this person, why we fell in love, and what made us want to build a life together in the first place.
Love can become quiet, familiar, even distant. But connection doesn’t have to fade. It just needs a little space to breathe.
That’s where we begin again.
Let’s reconnect—intentionally, gently, and honestly. Let’s carve out time to reflect, not just on our relationship, but on
ourselves within it. Do we feel seen? Heard? Are we sharing joy, laughter, and vulnerability, or simply checking the boxes of daily survival?
Counseling is not a sign of failure—it’s an invitation to grow. To rediscover not just love, but like. To be curious again about the person you wake up next to.
Join me, Yousof, in this journey. A space to reconnect, repair, and reimagine your relationship—together.
Because liking each other matters just as much as loving each other.
For more information, follow us on social media @youso or email us at yousof@fitlab.co.
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A Night to Remember: Celebrating Our Cover Soirée!
By CHARLIE GALLEGOS | Photos by MAURICIO CORDEIRO
Step into the highlights of an unforgettable evening at the Cover Soirée Party, hosted at KYOJIN DC on Tuesday, March 11th. The event brought together celebrities, business leaders, and distinguished guests from across the country for a night of celebration and sophistication. Guests indulged in exquisite dishes, including a specially curated menu in honor of the renowned Vernon Davis, while Smirno elevated the experience with ingenious cocktails crafted by a master mixologist. The night was particularly special as we not only celebrated an exclusive cover feature but also marked McLean Living’s third anniversary in print. Additionally, we honored the remarkable milestones of Vernon Davis, a champion both on and o the field—not just an accomplished football star, but also an actor, writer, and, above all, a devoted family man.
Saving Lives: How The Chris Atwood Foundation Is Fighting the Opioid Crisis
By SHEILA MURPHY
The opioid crisis has gripped Northern Virginia, leaving countless families devastated and communities searching for solutions. Amidst the struggle, one organization stands out. The Chris Atwood Foundation (CAF) provides lifesaving recovery support, harm reduction services, and essential resources to individuals and families impacted by substance use. This February, CAF found an ally in Social4Good (S4G), a local philanthropic organization committed to mobilizing community support for critical needs. S4G stepped up to support CAF’s Harm Reduction Program and Basic Needs Fund.
CHRIS’S STORY: THE HEART BEHIND THE MISSION
CAF was founded in memory of Chris Atwood, a young man who tragically lost his life to an opioid overdose. His family transformed their grief into action, creating a nonprofit dedicated to harm reduction, recovery support, and saving lives. Since its inception, CAF has distributed statewide almost 125,000 free doses of Narcan, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses. It has saved 2,681 lives through overdose reversal kits. Their e orts also extend to providing recovery housing grants for 2,291 individuals annually and training 133 peer recovery specialists who support individuals on their recovery journey. Overall, they have assisted 27,000 people across all their programs.
A LIFELINE FOR THOSE IN NEED
One of CAF’s most impactful initiatives is its Harm Reduction Program, which operates a mobile service in Prince William and Fairfax counties. This program o ers free and anonymous services, including overdose prevention, disease prevention, and connections to recovery resources. According to CAF, individuals who engage
with harm reduction services are five times more likely to enter treatment, and HIV rates among this population have decreased by 50%. Brittany Martin, CAF’s Director of Programs, emphasizes the importance of this work:
“We meet people where they are— literally and figuratively. Our harm reduction e orts are about keeping people alive, giving them dignity, and providing a path to recovery when they’re ready.”
CAF also administers a Basic Needs Fund that helps individuals secure transportation to job interviews, medical appointments, and housing assistance, ensuring that recovery isn’t just about surviving, but about thriving.
ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR FREEZING TEMPERATURES
Last month, S4G chose CAF as the beneficiary of their monthly service project, rallying their members to support CAF’s mission in a big way. Through in-kind donations, members assembled and donated 200 Winter Comfort Kits to CAF’s Harm Reduction Program. The kits provided individuals served by CAF’s mobile van with essential cold-weather items like blankets, hand warmers, and hats, as well as toiletries and hygiene products. In total, $6,000 was raised, including a $3,601 grant to CAF’s Basic Needs Fund.
Beyond material support, S4G members had the opportunity to visit the CAF Recovery Community Center in Fairfax, VA. There, they assembled the kits, learned about CAF’s programs, and were trained in opioid overdose reversal. Each participant left not only with a deeper understanding of the opioid crisis but also with the knowledge and Narcan to save a life.
By meeting people where they are, o ering nonjudgmental support, and empowering them with resources, CAF is making strides in addressing the opioid crisis at its roots. To learn more, visit www.thecaf.org.
About Social4Good: 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 nonprofits making a difference. To learn more about S4G or to support local nonprofits, visit www.social4good.community.
Spring Cleaning: Pet Edition
ANNIE DINEEN Owner of Fetch & Favor
At last, it feels like warm weather is here to stay! We're loving the warm, sunny days for even longer walks and playtimes outdoors with our pup friends. As the season changes, here are some of our favorite ways to make sure our homes and our pets are at their best!
1. REFRESH YOUR PET'S GROOMING ROUTINE
Spring is the perfect time to pamper your pet with a grooming refresh. Schedule a trip to the groomer or give your pet a relaxing brush-out and bath at home (this can be a lot of fun to do with kids, too!). Trimming nails, cleaning ears, and brushing teeth are also great ways to keep your furry friend feeling and looking their best. A well-groomed pet is happier, healthier, and leaves less hair around the house. As a bonus, if your pet gets seasonal allergies, washing pollen off of their fur will help mitigate those symptoms.
2. TACKLE THE FUR FACTOR
Shedding season is in full swing, so now's the time to stay ahead of the fur. Regular brushing not only reduces hair around your home but also keeps your pet comfortable. If your pets are allowed on furniture, consider adding a washable throw or blanket to their favorite spot to make cleanup easier. For stubborn fur on upholstery, a damp rubber glove works wonders to lift hair quickly.
3. ORGANIZE AND REFRESH
Spring is a great excuse to sort through your pet's gear. Toss out damaged toys, expired treats, and worn-out leashes. Store seasonal items like winter coats or booties in a labeled bin so they're easy to find when the weather turns cold again. This is also a great time to update ID tags if any information has changed.
4. FRESHEN UP THE YARD
If your pup loves outdoor playtime, take a moment to clean up the yard. Remove debris, check for any harmful plants, and ensure fences are secure - if you have a landscaper, make sure they know all plants need to be pet friendly. Consider having patchy grass areas re-seeded to create a lush, pet-friendly lawn.
By giving your home and pet's belongings a little extra care this spring, you'll create a cleaner, healthier environment for the whole family to enjoy!
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