Lydia Russo: ACTIONS OVER WORDS
Cover photo by Mauricio Cordeiro
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Happy New Year, and welcome to January 2025! As we step into our second year of bringing you the best of what’s happening in our vibrant community, we want to take a moment to celebrate all that we've accomplished together—and all that's yet to come.
Looking back on our first year, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible support we've received from you—our readers, contributors, and local businesses. You’ve made it possible for us to share stories, connect neighbors, and highlight the people and events that make this community so special. We’ve grown together, and as we enter this exciting new chapter, we’re more inspired than ever to continue building on that momentum.
2025 is set to be a year full of opportunities, new faces, and even more ways to strengthen our bonds as a community. Whether it's supporting local causes, attending events, or simply making meaningful connections, we can’t wait to see what we’ll achieve together in this new year.
This month’s feature article highlights the incredible work of Lydia Russo’s One Neighborhood Foundation (ONF). The mission of the foundation is to ease the burden and stress of struggling families in our community, as well as frontline workers, first responders, essential workers, teachers, and other local heroes in need of support—with meals from local businesses. One Neighborhood Foundation now continues to serve the community, with a focus on assisting food-insecure families. ONF works directly with social workers, counselors, and local schools to identify needs and fulfill requests. It’s important to note that One Neighborhood Foundation is a separate entity from Vienna Foodies. While ONF was launched within the Vienna Foodies Facebook group, it has grown into its own organization, and its name is a tribute to Mr. Rogers' theme song, “It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.”
In keeping with our theme of "enriching each other, enhancing community," we’re proud to feature Social4Good (S4G) in this month's Non-Profit Spotlight. S4G’s mission aligns perfectly with our vision by using collective giving and engagement to inspire women to support organizations that strengthen our community. As an all-volunteer organization, Social4Good is dedicated to educating, engaging, and empowering women to make a meaningful difference in Northern Virginia. Their work is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact that women can have when they come together for a cause.
As always, we are so grateful for the continued support from our advertisers. They make it possible for us to keep doing what we love—bringing you the stories that matter most. Please consider supporting our advertisers, who help make all of this possible. Your patronage of their businesses keeps the heartbeat of our community strong.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Here’s to another amazing year ahead!
Happy New Year! All the best,
Publisher
Gema
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SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
BY CATHERINE HARDMAN
Seasonal A ective Disorder (SAD) has likely existed for thousands of years but was not recognized as a distinct condition until more recently. For some individuals, symptoms begin as early as October when the leaves start to fall, while for others, the onset aligns with the Fall equinox or the change in daylight savings time.
The Winter solstice marks the end of the darkest days of midwinter, and many people begin to look forward to the new year, baseball season, gardening, and longer sunsets.
A few decades ago, SAD was not widely recognized as a legitimate disorder. However, over time, it has gained more attention from the medical community, leading to the development of diagnostic criteria and treatment options. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, lab tests, and a psychological evaluation. These assessments help rule out other conditions such as depression, anemia, thyroid issues, or other health problems.
A psychological exam can also identify signs of depression or behavioral issues.
Treatment for SAD varies, and many individuals find that combining several approaches works best for them. Light therapy is an especially e ective treatment for those enduring
ESTATE PLANNING SERVICES
long stretches of grey days. Light therapy lamps, which once cost over $100, are now available starting at $23, with a variety of attractive designs and sizes. Additionally, a cheerful string of lights indoors can help lift spirits, especially after the holidays.
Prescribed antidepressants may also be helpful, along with maximizing exposure to sunlight whenever possible, such as by taking a walk, preparing a garden for spring, or simply sitting in a sunny spot.
Psychotherapists use techniques like scheduling meaningful activities, avoiding negative thoughts and behaviors, managing stress, fostering healthy habits through physical activity, and improving sleep patterns to help individuals cope with SAD.
If someone you know is su ering from SAD, remind them that it’s part of the natural cycle of the sun and seasons. Encourage them to create their own "sunlight" and to look forward to brighter days ahead. Count the days together until pitchers and catchers report for Spring Training in the second week of February, and don’t forget that daylight-saving time begins on March 9!
Resource: www.mayoclinic.org
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Lydia Russo
BY CATHERINE HARDMAN
The very beginning of COVID19 turned the lives of thousands of Vienna residents into chaos, needs and fear, just like the rest of the country. One di erence in Vienna was that we had incredible residents that used their talents of philanthropy, as well as empathy to help those in need – especially the people on the frontline like doctors, medics, firefighters, teachers, and so many others. Lydia Russo was one of Vienna’s lifetime residents who had ideas to share, coordinate, and lead with the help of the Vienna Foodies Facebook group and then in the middle of COVID19, she started the nonprofit, One Neighborhood Foundation, in order to continue the idea of helping those in need.
When asked what made Lydia care about her connection with the Vienna community and when her empathy truly flowered, she responded, “I was born and
raised in Vienna and have lived here my whole life. I have always loved this tightknit community that treats each other like family. “
Lydia reflected on her childhood, she said, “When I was a little girl, I went to preschool at the Vienna Community Center. Everyday my grandpa would walk me to class and along the way, I remember every person who worked at the community center would give me friendly hellos and warm greetings. My preschool teacher, Miss Jane Seeman, was a lifelong Vienna resident, and served as the Mayor of Vienna. Because of her, I was impacted at a young age to get involved in the community. I saw firsthand how she would teach little ones during the day, and then with her free time, after work, go and give back to the community; volunteering, supporting businesses, and cheerleading the youth.
It is no surprise to alumni of Louise Archer ES that Ms. Archer impacted Lydia's life and current work. “I also have such fond memories attending Louise Archer Elementary School, where the story of Ms. Louise Archer was always told to us. A strong, innovative, fearless woman who focused on inclusion and making sure children had every resource they needed. She knew that education was a universal right and made sure that no child was denied that. At Louise Archer Elementary School, the motto was the sun always shines at Louise Archer. We would hear this line all the time, and it taught me at a young age to always stay optimistic and focus on the brighter things of life.”
Another part of Lydia’s journey was when she went to Marymount University and studied Fashion Merchandising and Design where she took a particular interest in Marketing.
Lydia was very active with extracurricular activities, such as the Fashion Club. At least a few times a week, the club volunteered at events. Everything from fashion shows, galas and nonprofit events. To no surprise, Lydia served as president, and she made a huge di erence, and the club reached a record number of volunteer hours. Lydia recalled, “It was there that I discovered that I loved interacting with people, meeting new people, and getting involved with di erent organizations.” When she graduated, she focused her work on Marketing/Public Relations in the fashion industry and as time went on, ended up assisting many businesses with social media and helping their brands grow.
Carmen Archaumbault was the woman who encouraged Lydia to join the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department— this is where she met another mentor, Vera Lloyd. She was a lifetime Vienna resident and volunteer of the VVFD Auxiliary. Vera was one of the first women to help the fire department flourish to what it is today—providing extra support, meals, and encouragement to first responders. Lydia reiterated the women’s influence on her. “Miss Jane, Vera, and Carmen have since passed away, but all these amazing women have left an everlasting impact on me— I always think of them whenever I do anything.”
Those mentors, her experiences in college, along with her own circle of peers all benefitted her for the next chapter in her life and the creation of Vienna VA Foodies Facebook group. “My high school friend Chris Drinkuth and I kept bumping into one another at Vienna restaurants—
PHOTOS BY MAURICIO COREIRO & LYDIA RUSSO
VIENNA LIFETIME RESIDENT HELPING OTHERS YEAR ROUND WITH FOOD AND LOVE
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we loved supporting local restaurants and hyping businesses. We decided to make a Facebook group to uplift the community and bring the spotlight to local establishments. Together, a team of five of us, manage the group and do our best to bring a positive impact to others. The Facebook group is a fun pursuit that we all enjoy— and participate in whenever we have time from our busy schedules. The group leads with this line, ‘Discover new restaurants, enjoy delicious meals and make satisfying conversations with friendly food companions. It's a big dinner table and all are welcome!’ Although the group is focused primarily on food, it has really grown to something much bigger. We started at around 3,000 Foodies followers and now we are almost at 40,000 Foodies.
In the group, Foodies are often highlighting businesses, local citizens who have done good for the community, town happenings and events.
Running a Facebook group can be a tough responsibility, and groups of any topic have limitations and rules. While Lydia, Chris and the five partners do their
best to make Vienna Foodies a fun and enriching resource for the community, there can be pitfalls and negative tones. Lydia explains this problem further, “We really try to keep it as a positive place where we uplift the community. If someone had a good experience at a restaurant or local business, this is the place to shine a spotlight. We do realize that not every
"One Neighborhood Foundation embodies the heart of community care and mutual support. Their mission to provide assistance with dignity and respect is incredibly impactful, especially in addressing both longterm poverty and sudden hardships. Lydia's leadership style, emphasizing discretion and respect, highlights the compassionate foundation of the organization. It's organizations like this that truly strengthen the fabric of our close-knit community."
- Lisa Lujan, School Counselor
MAURICIO CORDEIRO
experience will be perfect, but we always encourage people to first reach out to the restaurant and give them an opportunity to make things right.
Individuals and Vienna-area businesses are welcome to post in the Vienna VA Foodies Facebook Group, but we try our best to limit ads to Fridays-only unless there is something time sensitive (holidays, special events, etc.). We also always try to remind Vienna-area businesses that if their post is personalized, written from the heart— it is much more e ective and appreciated over a generic advertisement. (No one likes spam posts!) If the post is something uplifting the community and has a tie to the Vienna, VA community— it is more likely to be approved. It’s extremely hard to keep 40,000 people happy all the time. We try our best and want to remind everyone that we are human. We now see that Vienna VA Foodies has attracted people from neighboring towns, even those who live miles away who want to keep “in the know” with Vienna happenings.”
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One might ask, what does a passionate food lover prefer to eat. Most foodies and gourmands alike have favorite dishes and flavors and many of them bring comfort and nostalgia. Are there any favorites for Lydia? “I love trying all kinds of foods—but as someone who is half Italian, half Iranian, those are two of my favorite cuisines. Both cuisines are incredibly sentimental to me because they bring me memories of my childhood. If I was going to order a Persian dish, my favorite would be ghormeh sabzi (Persian herb stew loaded with dried limes, fresh herbs, and spinach, simmered in a pot with chunks of tender beef or lamb and red kidney beans). If I was going to order an Italian dish, my favorite would be spaghetti and homemade meatballs.”
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Lydia also has a close connection with the Vienna Volunteer Fire Department. She started in a volunteer roll in 2006, just after finishing high school. “Serving for 17 years as an administrative member, and now as an associate member, is one of the honors of my life. These selfless heroes put their lives on the line everyday—and volunteering for the VVFD has been a great way to support them. I always like to remind people that even if you aren’t on the frontlines, there are so many great ways to give back. One way I always tried to give back was to help with community outreach and help get the word out on events that were happening.”
Sometimes a tragic national or international tragedy can bring out the best in people; it can be through art, music – or
“The One Neighborhood Foundation is a shining example of what it means to care for a community. Their grassroots e orts—whether it’s feeding food-insecure families, supporting local firefighters, or organizing neighborhood initiatives—make a real, lasting impact. As a local, family-owned business, we’ve been honored to work alongside them on these e orts. Their passion for bringing people together and uplifting the community inspires us, and we’re grateful for all they do to make our neighborhood stronger.”
- Lorenzo D’Agostino, Tony’s NY Pizza
food! Lydia, Chris and the other five members realized they had an opportunity to help some of those in need. “Restaurants were su ering due to everyone being in lockdown. Personally, even I was on lockdown and refrained from going out due to having a high-risk mother. I put a call in the Vienna Foodies Facebook group to see if anyone wanted to send meals from local restaurants to first responders and frontline workers. For months and months, in the darkest days of the pandemic, we sent hundreds of deliveries out to various groups. Vienna residents were donating, volunteering to deliver, and there was such a positive energy as everyone was united. Over time, the list of recipients began to grow— we would surprise nurses, sanitation workers, postal workers, teachers, etc.”
The continued needs of the community during the pandemic led Lydia to her next venture. This led Lydia to establish the 501c3 nonprofit called One Neighborhood Foundation (ONF) foundation “with the help of an incredible lawyer, Nisha Thakker, co-founder of Tenenbaum Law Group PLLC, who was kind to do the work pro bono for us.”
Currently, The One Neighborhood Foundation provides crucial assistance to food insecure families throughout Fairfax County, VA. ONF collaborates with Fairfax County school personnel and local community organizations to identify food insecure families and deliver relief in the
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form of meals, groceries and other acts of kindness. As the foundation grows, we aim to serve neighboring counties and the metropolitan area.
The mission of the foundation is to ease the burden and stress of struggling families in our community, as well as frontline workers and first responders, essential workers and teachers, and other local heroes in need of support, with meals from local businesses.
One Neighborhood Foundation now continues to serve the community, with the focus to assist food insecure families. We work directly with social workers and counselors and local schools to see what the need is and help fulfill requests. One thing to clarify— One Neighborhood Foundation is something separate from Vienna Foodies. ONF was launched in the Vienna Foodies Facebook Group, but it is its own organization.” The name was a tribute to Mr. Rogers’ theme song “It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood.”
ONF is still a fledgling nonprofit that has many di erent collaborations with
local businesses. They always love to partner with existing businesses so that they can find ways to lift them up. They do plan to have merchandise available in the future like some other nonprofits— but in the meantime, be sure to bookmark the website! https://onenf.org/
"One Neighborhood Foundation embodies the true spirit of community. Their support for local families and small businesses, especially during challenging times, has been nothing short of inspiring. At Pizza Vienna, we’re proud to stand alongside ONF in creating a neighborhood where everyone thrives."
- Ravi Johal, Pizza Vienna
As noted in the Mission Statement, ONF primarily serves the Vienna area, but it also looks to the needs of neighboring communities as well. Additionally, ONF has provided assistance to other towns and neighborhoods within the United States.
When ONF first began, they fundraised $20,000 to Martha’s Table based out of DC— and recently, One Neighborhood Foundation was involved with a fundraiser to help with Hurricane Helene relief. A few Vienna residents were heading to the disaster zone, and ONF was able to provide much needed supplies to hand out to families that were a ected.
Any other free time Lydia has, she is chasing her 3-year-old boy, Gio, around; she truly enjoys being a mom and spending time with family. Many of us appreciate the day-to-day adventure and awe of watching a 3-year-old grow and cherish every moment because time flies much faster than one would expect.
If it’s a day of rest, the family loves watching movies. A perfect day for them is to be cuddled up on the couch and having a movie marathon. A fun weekend is to drive out to the Virginia countryside and enjoy the scenic drives to lovely little town like Woodstock, Virginia—especially in the autumn. Another family favorite event is
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visiting breweries and wineries with big open fields, so that their 3-yearold son has room to run around and play. Lydia loves the state of Virginia and feels there is so much beauty here.
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When asked about some of her favorite things about Vienna, Lydia mentioned all the yearly traditions. “Since I was a little girl, I have fond memories attending the Vienna Halloween Parade. For the past two years, with the help of one of our top volunteers, Judi Medwede , One Neighborhood Foundation has been able to participate in the parade in collaboration with Michael’s Lawn Service. It’s been such a blast to get involved and watch the reactions of the attendees… although, I must admit, it is a LOT of work! It truly would not be possible without the guidance and help of Judi who takes the role as Head Coordinator for this e ort. The judges have been so kind to recognize us with “Best Float with Sound” two years in a row.”
The needs of nonprofit organizations are year-round. Finding individuals to volunteer is a constant challenge, but
Lydia is well known for her heart and happiness, and people of all ages are very willing to assist her projects. Lydia also explained, “I am especially inspired by the youth who are stepping up to donate their time, raise money, raise awareness for One Neighborhood Foundation as well as other wonderful organizations in the area. It warms my heart to know that we have
great future leaders stepping up to make a di erence.
Lydia’s final thoughts, who lives her life’s motto of actions over words: “To anyone reading this article, I ask you one thing - If you only have one thought, one moment, how would you spend it? Would you use it to think or say something negative? Or to think or say something positive? We each have a finite number of moments, and I want to use all of mine to spread positivity and uplift others - And my hope is that you will choose to do the same.
• Start small, try your best, and take everything one step at a time.
• Each action, over time, will lead to many actions.
• Sharing a meal is the connective tissue amongst all people from all walks of life; sharing a meal can unite us as one neighborhood.
©
&JanuaryFebruary in Vienna
November 8 – January 5
WINTER WALK OF LIGHTS
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens/ NOVA Parks
9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna
Times: vary | Cost: varies www.novaparks.com
January 17-19, 2025
RUSSEL PETERS
RELAX WORLD TOUR
CAPITAL ONE HALL
– MAIN THEATER
7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons
Times: 3 PM; 6 PM
Cost: start at $39 www.capitalonehall.com
January 18, 2025
FAMILY BINGO NIGHT
VIENNA COMMUNITY CENTER
120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna
Time: 5:30-7:30 PM
Cost: TBD-check Web site www.Kidsgiveback.org/events
January 19, 2025 JOHN HOLIDAY, COUNTERTENOR
CHAMBER MUSIC AT THE BARNS
The Barns at Wolf Trap 1635 Trap Road, Vienna
Time: 3 PM
Cost: start at $50 www.mpv.tickets.com
January 21, 22, 24, 25,26, 2025 THE DALE MCCOURY BAND
The Barns at Wolf Trap 1635 Trap Road, Vienna
Time: 8 PM
Cost: prices vary www.mpv.tickets.com
January 31, 2025
NASHVILLE EMERGING ARTISTS NIGHT
The Barns at Wolf Trap 1635 Trap Road, Vienna Time: 7:30 PM
Cost: start at $50 2/1/25 –sold out www.mpv.tickets.com
January 31-February 2, 2025
COME FROM AWAY
CAPITAL ONE HALL
– MAIN THEATER
7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons Times: 1/31 8 PM; 2/1 2 PM & 8 PM; 2/2 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM Cost: varies www.capitalonehall.com
February 9, 2025
ARTS & PROSE: A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE IN SCHOLARSHIP, ART, MUSIC AND LITERATURE CAPITAL ONE HALL – MAIN THEATER
7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons Times: 1 PM | Cost: $150 www.capitalonehall.com
February 14, 2025
MEN ARE FORM MARS –WOMEN ARE VENUS LIVE! CAPITAL ONE HALL – MAIN THEATER 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons Times: 7:30 PM | Cost: $70 www.capitalonehall.com
February 15, 2025
JOHN CRIST: JOKES FOR HUMANS COMEDY TOUR CAPITAL ONE HALL – MAIN THEATER 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons Times: 7 PM | Cost: start at $33.75 www.capitalonehall.com
February 28, 2025
CHRISTIAN LOPEZ BAND CAPITAL ONE HALL – THE VAULT
The Barns at Wolf Trap 1635 Trap Road, Vienna 7750 Capital One Tower Road, Tysons Times: 8 PM | Cost: $25 www.capitalonehall.com
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.
LONG LIFE Noodles
BY BILL AT THE WOKS
OF LIFE
Long Life Noodles (yī miàn, ) or yi mein, symbolize longevity and can always be found on the banquet table at Chinese celebrations. Yi Mein, also known as e-fu noodles, are always served at birthday, new baby, wedding or lunar new year banquets.
serves: 4 PREP: 10 Minutes COOK: 10 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
• 3 quarts water (for pre-cooking the noodles)
• 12 ounces Yi Mein noodles (12 ounces/340g, dry)
• ⅛ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon hot water
• 2 teaspoons regular soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or vegetarian oyster sauce)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Freshly ground white pepper
• 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 5 shiitake mushrooms (fresh or dried/reconstituted; thinly sliced)
• 8 ounces Chinese chives (225g, cut into 2-inch long pieces, with the light and dark green parts separated)
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Boil 3 quarts of water in a large wok or pot to pre-cook your Yi Mein noodles. Once boiling, add the noodles. The directions on the box may say to boil the noodles for 5 minutes, but we recommend no more than 3 to 4 minutes to keep them firm and chewy. Overcook them, and you will end up with a mushy texture.
2. Sample a noodle while cooking, and when it tastes closer to the uncooked side of al dente pasta, it’s ready. When the noodles are done, immediately drain and set aside.
3. Dissolve the sugar and salt in 1 tablespoon of hot water, and add the regular soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Heat the wok until just smoking, and spread 2 tablespoons of oil around the perimeter.
5. Add the mushrooms and the light green parts of the chives, and stir fry for 30 seconds. The mushrooms are like sponges and will soak up the oil, so add another tablespoon of oil if they look too dry.
6. Add the noodles (they still should be warm but with no water dripping), and stir fry everything for another 20 seconds. If they cooled o , just cook them a bit longer until they are
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warmed, because warming the noodles before adding the sauce is important!
7. Spread the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the noodles, and stirfry everything together for 1 minute, or until the soy sauce mixture is distributed evenly. Spread another tablespoon of oil around the perimeter of the wok to prevent sticking if you feel you need it. How much oil you use is definitely a personal preference. If the noodles stick together, drizzle a bit of oil directly over the noodles. You can also add a splash of hot water if the noodles are too dry, even after adding the sauce.
8. Mix gently so you don’t break up the noodles–remember, you want to have long noodles to give longevity and prosperity to whoever’s going to be eating this dish!
9. Add in the remaining green parts of the chives and mix until they turn bright green and the noodles are heated through. This will take 1-3 minutes, depending on if your noodles were cold or still warm when you started stir frying, and how hot your stove and wok can get.
Dr. Allison Lonneman
Dr. Robert Marzban
Dr. Gema Island
Social4Good WORKING TO HELP THOSE IN VARIOUS NEEDS YEAR-ROUND
BY FAITH BEOTTGER
From Thanksgiving through the December holidays, nonprofits and those they serve feel our community’s holiday spirit and generosity. According to Nonprofit Source, 30% of annual giving occurs in December alone, with 10% of giving occurring on the last three days of the year. Most organizations, however, need a steady influx of funds, donations, and volunteer hours to meet budget, program, and client demands yearround.
With this in mind, a local giving circle, Social4Good, works with local, nonprofit partners each month to address critical needs. Projects are not only scheduled where help is needed most, but the project itself is designed to raise visibility for a specific community issue and the work being done by the nonprofit to address the issue and fulfill client need year-round.
In 2024, Social4Good’s monthly projects provided resources and raised visibility for community needs, such as:
• May (Mental Health Awareness month): Support to NOVA Mental Health Foundation and Wellness Circle Crisis Stabilization Unit.
• June: Support summer menstrual product needs with BRAWS.
• September: Reduce diaper insecurity with Fairfax Diapers.
• October: Support job skills training with Northern Virginia Family Service’ Training Futures program.
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During the first quarter of 2025, Social4Good plans to continue meeting critical community needs through the following projects, reflecting its mission to address local challenges and needs as identified by the nonprofits themselves:
• January: Funding for SafeSpot Child Advocacy Center to pilot two Teen Support Groups for victims of assault where they will learn self-care, journaling, other therapies, and strategies for dealing with triggers. The project will also support a year-long Caregiver Series.
• February: Support for Chris Atwood Foundation’s clients recovering from substance use disorders. Members will create Winter Comfort Kits for the Harm Reduction Program and contribute to their Basic Needs Fund which provides transportation vouchers for clients to attend job interviews and appointments, moving expense funds for clients moving into
permanent housing, and gift cards for food and basic supplies.
• February: Partner with Keys 365 to host a cost-free, interactive, virtual suicide prevention workshop for Social4Good’s members and nonprofit partners. The workshops are dynamically designed to introduce lifesaving suicide prevention skills.
• March: Provide Walk In My Shoes with a grant to sponsor and purchase materials for four Title I schools to host assemblies that teach empathy by allowing students to experience life as children with disabilities experience it.
Robin Sailer
Beauty Director
