Issuu

ENRICHING EACH OTHER, ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY!

MeetTHE

MORROWS Cover photo by Mauricio Cordiero VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

PUBLICATION TEAM

Content Coordinator Tania Reyes

Publisher Carmella Antonino

Contributing Photographer Mauricio Cordeiro

Designer Frances Barra

JOIN OUR GROWING NUMBER OF SPONSORS Contact: Carmella Antonino Phone: 412-475-0133 Email: cantonino@bestversionmedia.com

HAPPY NEW YEAR, VIENNA!

TELL US YOUR IDEAS Have feedback, ideas, classifieds, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to cantonino@bestversionmedia.com. You may also submit your thoughts, ideas and photos to: bestversionmedia.com/magazines/viennaliving CONTENT SUBMISSION DEADLINES Content is due by the 10th of the month preceding the month of publication.

911

Fairfax County Non-Emergency Police/Fire/Animal Control

703-691-2131

Wolftrap Fire Station #42

703-757-7910

Fairfax County Fire and Rescue

703-691-2131

I am also delighted to highlight our Non-Pro t Spotlight, the Westwood Cares Foundation. As the philanthropic arm of Westwood Country Club, the Foundation plays a vital role in strengthening support within our community. Their efforts focus on addressing food insecurity, expanding access to youth sports for all children, and providing meaningful assistance to Westwood employees and their families. Their commitment to compassion and community partnership is a wonderful example of how local organizations can create lasting impact.

Fairfax County VA Park Authority Rec Centers 703-324-8680 Fairfax County Parks Department

703-321-7080

Vienna Community Center/Parks and Recs

703-255-6360

Fairfax County Public Schools Main Number

571-423-3000

This month, I am thrilled to introduce you to our feature family, the Morrows—Jason, Laura, Desmond (14), and Connor (10). The Morrow family represents the very best of Vienna: kindness, involvement, and a steadfast commitment to community. Whether supporting youth activities, volunteering, or uplifting our local businesses, their presence is felt across town. Many of you may already know Laura Morrow, who serves on the Vienna Business Association Board and is a dedicated advocate for small businesses. Through her work at Laura Morrow Wellness, she helps women with autoimmune diseases reverse their symptoms and live vibrant, empowered lives—regardless of their diagnosis. Her passion, service, and heart-centered approach are truly inspiring.

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS EMERGENCY

As we welcome 2026, I hope your year is beginning with a sense of optimism and renewed energy. January always brings a special kind of promise—a clean slate, a chance to set new intentions, and an opportunity to appreciate the people and places that make our town such a wonderful place to call home.

As you enjoy this issue, I’d also like to offer a gentle reminder to support our ad sponsors. These partners make this publication possible each month, and they consistently invest in our community. Choosing to shop local and engage with their services directly strengthens Vienna— and ensures we can continue sharing the stories that bring our town together.

BESTVERSIONMEDIA.COM Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2026 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Wishing you peace, health, and joy as we step forward into a new year full of promise. "New year, new adventures..." author unknown

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

HOW TO STICK TO

THANK YOU TO OUR LOCAL BUSINESS SPONSORS WHO BRING THE MAGAZINE TO LIFE EACH MONTH! Please be sure to visit their shops, services, websites, and social media pages and enjoy all they bring to our community!

BY RACHEL KOEPKE

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY Dr. Gema Island

Board Certi ed Pediatric Dentist

Island Children's Dentistry 703-790-1320 islandchildrensdentistry.com

ROOF Ford Barsi RoofER 703-239-3738 info@theroofdocs.com

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BECOMING AN EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR contact BVM at 412-475-0133 or cantonino@bestversionmedia.com.

TELL US WHY YOU

MAGAZINE SPONSOR OPPORTUNITY

LOVE THIS MAGAZINE!

Advertise your business alongside industry-specific content

CONTACT: Carmella Antonino 412-475-0133 cantonino@bestversionmedia.com www.bestversionmedia.com/feedback

www.bestversionmedia.com/feedback

$99 NEW PATIENT SPECIAL includes Full exam, Cleaning, and X-rays

703-790-1320.

1500 Cornerside Blvd #310 Tysons Corner, VA 22182

islandchildrensdentistry.com SERVICES: Preventive Dentistry, cleanings, pediatric sedation in office, laser dentistry, digital x-rays, tongue tie and lip tie laser release, airway assessment, orthodontic treatment, Invisalign and much more.

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

We invite you to visit our new office at Tysons Corner, where Island Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontist proudly stands as the premier pediatric dental practice in the region. Our clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed specifically for children’s dental needs, ensuring a comfortable and effective experience. Led by our Board-Certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Gema Island, our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional dental care that emphasizes a functional approach to facial development. At Island Children’s Dentistry, we strive to deliver the highest standard of care for your child’s oral health, making us the trusted choice for families in Northern Virginia.

O YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION s the new year gets underway, we might start losing traction on our New Year’s Resolutions. Maybe it’s a loss of motivation, time or accountability. Whatever the reason, studies show that less than 25% of people stick to their resolutions for more than a month. Do you want to be part of that statistic? If not, here are a few tips to help you stay on track. START SLOW – There’s no shame in starting small. Rather than being overwhelmed by the enormous task in front of you, be realistic and accomplish one small step at a time. Take it day by day. WRITE IT DOWN – This makes your goal tangible, ingraining it in your brain. This keeps you motivated and conscientious of your actions. Tape it on your mirror so you read it every morning. Hang it up at work. Create a fun graphic and save it as the screensaver on your phone. Use whatever method works best for you. STAY ACCOUNTABLE - Find a buddy to hold you accountable of your resolution. Are you committed to drinking more water? Have them

VIENNA LIVING

check in from time to time and make sure you’re following through. Better yet, do it together and hold each other accountable. RELAX - Changing your lifestyle can be a tricky thing. If you nd yourself backtracking rather than making progress, just take a deep breath and turn around. Don’t give up if you make a mistake. Instead, use that as a turning point to get back on track. No one is perfect, and it’s okay to make mistakes. REWARD YOURSELF - As you accomplish your goals along the way, be sure to celebrate! Go see a new movie in theatres or buy a new hat. Find some way to prove to yourself that you are a winner and you are achieving great things!

JAN 2026

COVER STORY

THE MORROW FAMILY: Rooted in Community, Thriving in Vienna SUBMITTED BY TANIA REYES PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MAURICIO CORDIERO

hen Laura and Jason Morrow moved to Vienna, Virginia, in March 2020, their search for excellent schools for their sons, Desmond and Connor, led to a discovery far greater than academics. Vienna revealed itself as a charming, close-knit town with wooded trails, live music, and neighbors who support each other through celebrations and challenges. The Morrows quickly became woven into the fabric of Vienna life, embracing daily routines at Wolftrap Elementary and Kilmer Middle School, Scout meetings, summer concerts, and walks with friends.

A LOVE STORY THAT STARTED AT DUKE Laura and Jason’s journey began in a psychology class at Duke University, where they spent four years as close friends before romance blossomed. After graduation, both moved to the Washington, D.C. area, deepening their bond into a committed

relationship. Their wedding in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, was memorable for a spontaneous moment: during their rst dance, guests sang along to Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” transforming Laura’s nerves into pure joy and setting the tone for their life together. CAREERS WITH PURPOSE Both Laura and Jason have built careers centered on service and meaningful impact. Laura owns Laura Morrow Wellness, helping women in midlife reclaim their vitality, specializing in hormone balance and energy stabilization. Her credentials include Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Certi ed Functional Hormone Specialist, and her Duke psychology background gives her unique insight into the mind-body connection. Laura’s practice was inspired by her own hormone challenges and the realization that many women felt overwhelmed or dismissed by their health struggles. She empowers clients through functional nutrition, education, and practical lifestyle adjustments, nding ful llment in watching women regain con dence and energy.

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

© Best Version Media Jason serves as Senior Counsel at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, managing complex lawsuits related to banking and nance. A Duke Political Science graduate with a law degree from NYU, Jason is valued for his thoughtful approach to legal matters. RAISING TWO BUSY, MUSICAL BOYS Desmond, 14, is an eighth grader at Kilmer Middle School, playing trombone in the Symphonic Band and participating in the National Junior Honor Society. He also performs electric guitar in the Performance Band at School of Rock Vienna and has earned the rank of First Class Scout in Scouting America Troop 152. Connor, 10, a fourth grader at Wolftrap Elementary, plays drums in School of Rock Vienna’s Performance Band and is a Webelo Scout in Cub Scout Pack 1116. Their home is lled with music, scouting adventures, and school commitments, creating a lively and enriching environment. SERVICE, SCOUTING, AND SHOWING UP Volunteerism is a de ning trait for the Morrows, inspired by Laura’s childhood memories of her parents’ leadership in Florida. Laura serves on the Board of Directors for the Vienna Business Association and its Health & Wellness and Oktoberfest Committee, leads the Book Fair and Nominating Committees for the Wolftrap Elementary PTA, and is Recruiting Chair for Cub Scout Pack 1116. Jason leads Pack 1116 as Cubmaster, guiding more than 40 children alongside parent volunteers. Family service extends to personal traditions, with Jason spending summers at Scout camp with the boys, and the family bonding over Duke basketball and football games, as well as annual concerts at Wolf Trap Amphitheater. FINDING HOME IN VIENNA Living steps from Wolftrap Elementary, the Morrows enjoy a neighborhood that feels like a village. Children frequently gather at their home, and spontaneous gatherings are common. Neighbors collaborate on school volunteering, Scout support, meal trains, scavenger hunts, block parties, and holiday celebrations. Laura cherishes walking the boys to school each morning, which often turns into extended walks with other moms. The family enjoys wooded trails at Wolf Trap National Park and Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, and the boys bene t from a wealth of local activities, including music, sports, and classes. Jason’s parents relocated from Missouri in 2014 and now live nearby, remaining closely involved with their grandsons. TRADITIONS AND SIMPLE JOYS The Morrow family calendar is anchored by traditions everyone anticipates each year. Every New Year’s, they join other Vienna families for skiing, snow tubing, board games, and karaoke near Massanutten. Since 2020, they’ve taken annual road trips to Florida to visit Laura’s family, turning the drive into device-free time lled with music, audiobooks, games, and

storytelling. Halloween is a favorite holiday, celebrated with a large community party—last year, over 100 guests attended, with everyone in costume. Jason and Laura enjoy couples costumes, bringing playful pop-culture air to the festivities. A MESSAGE TO THEIR VIENNA NEIGHBORS The Morrows believe that community is something people actively create. Their choices—walking to school, cheering at concerts, opening their home, volunteering, and unplugging on road trips—re ect this philosophy. They invite neighbors to join in, helping make Vienna feel like an extended family. “Our community is what we make of it,” they emphasize. “If you love what happens here, get involved and give back.” For the Morrows, Vienna is more than a place to live; it’s a place for active participation, meaningful contribution, and growth alongside neighbors who become family.

VIENNA LIVING

DO YOU KNOW A NEIGHBOR WHO HAS A STORY TO SHARE? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at bestversionmedia.com/magazines/viennaliving and click on "submit content". JAN 2026

REAL ESTATE STATISTICS

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES Vienna, Virginia 22182 $1,350,000 8711 Westwood Dr 5 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,240 SqFt AGF0.39 Acres

$1,595,000 10505 Dunn Meadow Rd 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 4,453 SqFt AGF 0.75 Acres

$830,000 1724 Cy Ct 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 1,680 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres

$1,070,000 8304 Forestree Ct 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,116 SqFt AGF 0.19 Acres

$1,200,000 1428 Wolftrap Run Rd 5 Beds 3 Baths 2,070 SqFt AGF 0.36 Acres

$1,150,000 1811 Saint Roman Dr 6 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,275 SqFt AGF 0.29 Acres

$849,000 1295 Colvin Forest Dr 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,680 SqFt AGF 0.97 Acres

$1,295,000 9100 Quarter Ct 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,912 SqFt AGF 0.58 Acres

$910,000 2043 Pieris Ct 3 Beds 2/2 Baths 1,642 SqFt

$1,050,000 9023 Streamview Ln 4 Beds 2/2 Baths 2,406 SqFt AGF 0.37 Acres

$990,000 2002 Byrd Rd 4 Beds 3/0 Baths 1,488 SqFt AGF 0.29 Acres

$2,325,000 9603 Thistle Ridge Ln 5 Beds 4/1 Baths 4,820 SqFt AGF 0.88 Acres

$1,330,000 1817 Clovermeadow Dr 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,516 SqFt AGF 0.57 Acres

$1,350,000 2131 Robin Way Ct 5 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,644 SqFt AGF 0.20 Acres

$1,050,000 1536 Red Rock Ct 3 Beds 3/0 Baths 1,501 SqFt AGF 0.37 Acres

$890,000 2177 Wolftrap Ct 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 1,798 SqFt AGF 0.00 Acres

$1,080,000 10200 Tamarack Dr 5 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,817 SqFt AGF 0.00 Acres

$2,120,000 1305 Newkirk Ct 5 Beds 4/2 Baths 5,276 SqFt AGF 1.35 Acres

$822,500 9504 Percussion Way 4 Beds 3 Baths 1,412S qFt AGF 0.30 Acres

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

RESIDENT SUBMITTED CONTENT

VBA COMMUNITY MESSAGE JA N UA RY 2026 SUBMITTED BY PEGGY JAMES PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEGGY JAMES

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Fri., Jan 16-18, 20, & 22 The Del McCoury Band

Sat., Jan 31 - Sun., Feb 1 Kinky Boots

Daily through Mar 8, 2026 Reston Town Center Ice Skating Pavilion

@The Barns at Wolf Trap (Vienna, VA) A performance by the legendary American bluegrass band. Time: 8:00 PM Cost: Starts at $65.50 www.wolftrap.org

@Capital One Hall (Tysons) The Tony-winning Broadway musical about a struggling shoe factory owner and a fabulous drag queen. Time: Varies (Check website) Cost: Starts at $42 www.capitalonehall.com

@Reston Town Center (Reston, VA) An outdoor skating rink open for general admission throughout the winter season. Time: Varies (Check website for session times) Cost: Starts at $9 www.restontowncenter.com/skating/

Fri., Jan 23 Adam Ray: WHO IS ME Tour

Daily through Jan 4, 2026 Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights

@Capital One Hall (Tysons) Stand-up comedy performance by the touring comedian. Time: 7:00 PM Cost: Starts at $49.50 www.capitalonehall.com

Fri., Jan 23 Gaby Moreno @The Barns at Wolf Trap (Vienna, VA) A performance by the Guatemalan singer-songwriter known for her blend of jazz, blues, and Latin folk. Time: 8:00 PM Cost: Starts at $39 www.wolftrap.org

Fri., Jan 30 Boccherini & Beethoven (Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center) @The Barns at Wolf Trap (Vienna, VA) A chamber music concert featuring works by two classical masters. Time: 7:30 PM Cost: Free www.wolftrap.org

Sat., Jan 31 Vienna Theatre Company: Jack and the Beanstalk @The Vienna Community Center A chamber music concert featuring works by two classical masters. Time: Varies (Check website) Cost: Starts at $5 www.viennava.org

@Meadowlark Botanical Gardens (Vienna, VA) Stroll a half-mile paved trail transformed into an elegant light display with holiday and nature themes. Time: Varies (Check website for entry times) Cost: Starts at $20.85 www.novaparks.com

Daily through Jan 4, 2026 Bull Run Festival of Lights @Bull Run Regional Park (Centreville, VA) A 2.5-mile drive-thru holiday light display that can be viewed from the comfort of your car. Time: Varies (Check website for entry times) Cost: Starts at $32.50 www.novaparks.com

Every Sunday (Year-Round) FRESHFARM Farmers Market Mosaic @Mosaic District (Merrifield) A weekly farmers market featuring local vendors, produce, and prepared foods. Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Cost: FREE entry www.mosaicdistrict.com/fun/

Mon,. Feb 2 Dining for Dollars @Chick-Fil-A 538 Maple Avenue W, Vienna Benefiting Our Lady of Good Council School Time: 5:00 Pm - 7:00 PM

Wed., Feb 4 Network After Work @The Tower Club - Tysons Corner Networking event organized by the Young Executive Committee to foster meaningful connections for personal and professional growth. Light hors d'oeuvres are included. Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM Cost: $32 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/network-after-worktickets-1977729602480 Sat., Feb 7 Rumours - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute @Capital One Hall, Tysons Corner, VA A spectacular tribute band performing the music of Fleetwood Mac. Time: 8:00 PM Cost: From $73.80 https://www.unation.com/event/rumours-a-fleetwoodmac-tribute-61841651/

At the time this magazine went to print, all event details were accurate to the best of our knowledge, but please check event websites or call ahead for the most current information.

CLEAR VISION. PERSONALIZED CARE. Serving the Vienna community since 1984, our team provides advanced eye care for the whole family. From comprehensive exams to specialty treatments, we’re here to protect your vision and keep you seeing your best. OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Complete eye exams

• Neurolens® for digital eye strain

(703) 938-7633

• Designer frames & custom lenses

• Treatment for cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye & more

viennaeyecarecenter.com

• Contact lenses

• Emergency eye care

120 Beulah Rd NE, Suite 101, Vienna, VA 22180

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

© Best Version Media Sun., Feb 8 Pick Out Classmate Gifts at Our Free Pop-Up Valentines Shop @Wasinger & Co Properties (Crosspointe/Fairfax Station, VA) Free community event where kids use "Cupid Cash" to "buy" Valentines for their class. Includes a creative station, hot cocoa, and sweet treats. Time: 2:00 PM EST Cost: FREE https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pick-out-classmategifts-at-our-free-pop-up-valentines-shoptickets-1977834628616 Sat., Feb 14 Heart 2 Heart Gala @The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner, McLean, VA Fundraiser gala featuring comedian John Crist and multi-platinum country music artist Josh Turner, live and silent auctions, and the Sweetheart Benefit Raffle drawing. Time: Evening Event (Raffle Drawing 10:00 PM) Cost: From $750 https://www.youthfortomorrow.org/event/heart-2-heartgala/ Wed., Feb 25 Keb Mo @Capital One Hall, Tysons, VA A concert by the renowned American blues musician. Time: 8:00 PM Cost: From $74.50 https://www.jambase.com/show/keb-mo-capital-onehall-20260225

Thu., Feb 26 The Choir of Man @Main Theater @ Capital One Hall, Tysons, VA The Olivier Award-nominated, worldwide smash hit returns. Set in the world's best pub, featuring a cast of extraordinary singers, dancers, and musicians. Time: Doors 7:00 PM Cost: From $40 https://www.capitalonehall.com/events/detail/the-choirof-man Fri., Feb 27 Miles of Meaning Gala 2026 @Hilton McLean Tysons Corner A Mardi Gras celebration and fundraiser for Mercy Medical Angels. Attire: Festive Cocktail. 21+ event. Time: 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: Starts at $150 https://tysonsva.org/events/miles-of-meaninggala-2026/ Fri., Feb 27 - Sat., Feb 28 Ali Siddiq: In The Shadows Tour @Capital One Hall, Tysons, VA Stand-up comedy special live taping featuring gripping storytelling. Suggested age 16+. Multiple shows on both days. Time: Fri 7:00 PM & 8:30 PM; Sat 5:00 PM & 8:00 PM Cost: From $79 https://www.capitalonehall.com/events/detail/ali-siddiqin-the-shadows-tour

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

Multiple Dates/Self-Guided The Spirits of Arlington, VA: Outdoor Ghost Scavenger Hunt! @Arlington, VA (Start near Welburn Square) A selfguided ghost scavenger hunt/outdoor escape room game played on a smartphone via the Questo App. Follow clues and solve puzzles to track the city's spirits. Time: Everyday, All Day (Approx. 90 minutes to complete) Cost: From $7.50 (Per device) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-spirits-of-arlington-vaoutdoor-ghost-scavenger-hunt-tickets-1976838116020 Multiple Dates/Self-Guided Fairfax Scavenger Hunt For Couples - SHOW LOVE (Date Night!) @Fairfax, VA (Recommended starting point: 10360 North Street) A self-guided "CITY LOVE" Scavenger Hunt Date for Couples with fun digital activities. Time: Self-Guided (Multiple start times available) Cost: See event details https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fairfax-scavengerhunt-for-couples-show-love-date-nighttickets-1560168318439

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

WESTWOOD CARES FOUNDATION:

Neighbors Helping Neighbors PROVIDED BY SUSAN LAROCCA PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SUSAN LAROCCA

he Westwood Cares Foundation (WCF), the philanthropic arm of Westwood Country Club, has quickly become a quiet but powerful force for good in Vienna, Virginia. Founded in 2023, the organization channels the generosity of club members into three essential community priorities: easing food insecurity, opening doors to youth sports, and expanding educational opportunities. At its heart, WCF is built on a simple idea— neighbors looking out for neighbors. The seeds of the foundation were planted in 2022, when club

member Paul Feeko formed a small committee to coordinate charitable projects within Westwood. The enthusiasm and success of those early efforts inspired Feeko and fellow members David Booth, Susan LaRocca, and Mike Geiger to think bigger. Together, they formally launched WCF, determined to create a lasting, organized way for the club to serve the Vienna community. Their vision is bold: eliminate hunger, break down financial barriers that keep kids from playing sports, and make education accessible to anyone willing to pursue it. One of WCF’s most meaningful initiatives is its scholarship program. Through the work of a dedicated committee, the foundation awards educational funding to deserving Westwood

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

© Best Version Media Country Club employees and their families. These scholarships honor the staff as essential members of the Vienna community and help them reach new academic and professional milestones. Beyond scholarships, WCF actively supports high school programs fighting food insecurity and backs youth sports initiatives—transforming its mission into everyday impact. Fundraising brings this work to life. In November 2025, WCF hosted its first-ever Casino Night, an open community event that drew a remarkable turnout. The evening raised more than $60,000—an extraordinary achievement for such a young organization. These funds will bolster local high school food programs, ensuring that students can stay focused on learning instead of worrying about their next meal. Casino Night is just one example; WCF continues to host annual fundraising events and primarily serves as a grant-making foundation, supporting nonprofits that share its goals in hunger relief, sports access, and education. Behind the scenes, serving on WCF’s board is both a commitment and a calling. Board members—some with decades of volunteer leadership in Northern Virginia—describe the experience as one of the most RECIPE SECTION rewarding of their lives. The work can be demanding, with long hours, vacation video-conferencing calls, and countless logistical tasks involving accountants, web developers, and local charities. Yet the impact on Vienna families makes every late night and early morning worth it. What sets WCF apart is its spirit. The foundation is entirely volunteer-run, operating with minimal overhead so that support flows where it’s needed most. Its board and committee members share a deep belief that meaningful change is built through community, compassion, and steady, collective effort. Vienna residents who want to learn more, get involved, or lend their support can visit the foundation at www. westwoodcares.org or connect on Facebook and Instagram at @westwoodcaresfoundation. Through caring, giving, and a commitment to lifting others up, the Westwood Cares Foundation is helping ensure that no neighbor is overlooked—and that every person has the chance to thrive.

EMPOWER

ENHANCE

OUR SERVICES Skin • Body • Wellness Lasers • Injectables • Hair

REVITALIZE

Evolve Tysons

Evolve Tysons is dedicated to providing cutting-edge technologies in conjunction with exceptional medical professionals.

Medical aesthetics & Wellness Center

(571) 378-1880 EVOLVETYSONS.COM 8212 Old Courthouse Rd. Ste B, Vienna, VA

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

RECIPE CORNER

Healthy

ENCHILADA CASSEROLE Recipe

By Sylvia Fountaine

Prep Time: 15 mins Total Time: 55 mins

Cook Time: 40 mins Serves 8

DESCRIPTION A fast and easy recipe for Enchilada Casserole, with black beans, corn, sweet potatoes and a quick 5 Minute Enchilada Sauce. Comforting and healthy! Keep it vegetarian or add cooked chicken or ground turkey! CASSEROLE FILLING: • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1/2 an onion, diced

INGREDIENTS • 12-ounce bottle of enchilada sauce (or make my 5-minute enchilada sauce) • 12 x 6-inch corn or flour tortillas • 2–3 cups grated Mexican style cheese (or try a vegan cheese) • 4 ounce can green chilies, (optional) Garnish: chopped cilantro, diced avocado, sour cream, hot sauce

• 4 cloves garlic, rough chopped • 1 large yam or sweet potato, diced into 1/2-inch cubes (optional, or substitute 1 large bell pepper, or zucchini) • 12– 16-ounce bag frozen corn (regular or fire-roasted) – or substitute fresh corn. • 15-ounce can black beans, drained (like Trader Joe’s Cuban Style Black Beans) Or substitute with 2 cups cooked chicken, browned seasoned ground turkey, or beef.

5-MINUTE ENCHILADA SAUCE:

• 2 teaspoons cumin

• 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes (or tomato puree or tomato sauce)

• 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 1/4 cup water

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar

1. Preheat oven to 400 F

• 1 teaspoon cumin

2. Make the Quick Enchilada Sauce: Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, set aside.

• 1 teaspoon onion powder • 2 teaspoons chili powder

• 2 garlic cloves (or 2 teaspoons granulated garlic)

3. Make the filling: Sauté onion, garlic and sweet potatoes in the olive oil over medium heat, until tender, about 10-12 minutes, covering ½ way through, allowing potatoes to steam and get tender. Add corn and black beans, cumin, chili powder and salt and sauté until warmed through.

• 1 teaspoon oregano– optional (dry or fresh

4. Assemble: In a greased 9 x13 inch baking dish, spread out ½ cup of

• 1/4–1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder – optional (plus more to taste, or add a canned chipotle pepper, or smoked paprika and cayenne for heat) • 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

VIENNA LIVING

JAN 2026

enchilada sauce, to lightly coat the bottom. Spread out 4 tortillas on top of the sauce. Spread out ½ of the filling over the tortillas. Scatter half of the canned green chilies (if using), and 1 cup of grated cheese. Drizzle with a ½ cup enchilada sauce. Top with 4 more tortillas, add the remaining filling, green chilies, 1 cup cheese and top with 4 more tortillas. Lather the top with the remaining enchilada sauce and any additional cheese if you like a cheesy top. 5. BAKE Cover tightly with foil (use parchment to prevent foil from touching the casserole) and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, and bake for 10 more minutes. 6. Garnish with diced avocado, cilantro and sour cream. The sour cream really adds a nice creaminess. one with a little sprig of rosemary. Bake until the crescent dough is a light golden brown (about 15 minutes).

NOTES If short on time, you can sub granulated onion and/or garlic powder for the fresh onion and garlic. Add about a teaspoon each to the veggie filling. In winter, I love adding the diced sweet potato for extra richness, but in the warmer months I’ll opt for zucchini and/or bell pepper. Feel free to load the filling up with seasonal veggies- tasting and adjusting salt and seasoning accordingly. Or add a protein like cooked ground meat or chicken.

501 Maple Ave W, ViennaVA 22180 (571) 459-2295 Hello@CarnegieDiner.com VIENNA LIVING

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 07AM - 10PM JAN 2026

CHECK OUR REVIEWS ONLINE

7477 Lee Highway (Rte. 29) Falls Church, Virginia 22042

703-560-6646 novafas@gmail.com Schedule online: www.novafas.com