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ENRICHING EACH OTHER, ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY! NOVEMBER 2026 | ISSUE #36

Manny's

Vienna Story

Cover photo by Mauricio Cordeiro

VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

Gathered in Gratitude, Welcoming the Season

PUBLICATION TEAM

Dear Neighbors! Content Coordinator Tania Reyes

Publisher Carmella Antonino

Contributing Photographer Mauricio Cordeiro

Designer Nadine Schmitt

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

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS EMERGENCY

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

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

I don’t know about you, but November always feels like a double-edged sword to me. On one side is Thanksgiving—the holiday I look forward to for its slower pace, familiar traditions, and the simple joy of being together. We bring new tastes to the table alongside recipes that have been in our families for years. We pass the dishes, share the stories, and remember how much there is to be grateful for, especially the people gathered around us. On the other side, I can already feel Christmas approaching. In the back of my mind, I’m making lists: cards to write, gifts to buy, decorations to put up, work responsibilities to manage, and all the little things that somehow become a very long list. I want to celebrate with family and friends, enjoy our community’s events, and, above all, keep our Christian faith at the heart of the season. Is the lead-up always peaceful? Not even close. But I love it all the same—and every year, it ies by too fast. Perhaps that is why this month’s stories feel especially tting. Our feature celebrates Manny Andradee, the passionate, community-minded restaurateur who became the owner of The Virginian Restaurant in Vienna in late 2022. The beloved diner has been part of the neighborhood since 1965, and Manny brings his own warmth and energy to its tables. Whether he is stopping to chat with guests, cheering on another local business, welcoming Girl Scouts for hot chocolate, or helping bring neighbors together for a Thanksgiving meal, he reminds us that a restaurant can be more than a place to eat. It can be a place to belong. Our nonpro t spotlight honors Emmaus United Church of Christ and its commitment to serving the community on Vienna’s west side. We are grateful for neighbors who put care into action and help others feel seen and supported. I also want to thank the sponsors who keep this magazine in print. Their support makes it possible for us to share the people, places, and stories that make our community special. Please thank them by patronizing their businesses whenever you can. As we move from Thanksgiving toward Christmas, I hope we can make room for both the preparations and the moments that matter most. May your table hold something delicious, your home welcome the people you love, and your heart nd time to be grateful—even when the list is long. Warmly,

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Publisher, Vienna Living

© Best Version Media EXPERT CONTRIBUTORS 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!

FORD BARSI RoofER 703-239-3738 info@theroofdocs.com

DR. GEMA ISLAND

Board Certi ed Pediatric Dentist Island Children's Dentistry 703-790-1320 islandchildrensdentistry.com

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VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

RESIDENT SUBMITTED CONTENT BY PEGGY JAMES

Get Healthy Vienna EXPO

Wellness Wonderland! Saturday, November 14, 10AM to 2PM Vienna Community Center c Wellness Exhibitions c Fun activities for All Ages c Community Connections c Holiday Wellness Inspirations c FREE TO ATTEND! Sponsored by The Vienna Business Association | GethealthyVienna.org

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

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NOVEMBER 2026

COVER STORY

or Manuel “Manny” Andrade, a restaurant is more than a place to serve a meal. It is where family stories continue, neighbors become familiar faces and a community nds room at the table. At the Virginian restaurant, Manny is pursuing a dream rooted in his own upbringing while building a life in the town he now calls home. Since coming to Vienna in 2022, Manny has found encouragement in the people around him: longtime employees, customers, fellow business owners and neighbors willing to lend a hand. Together, they have helped him navigate the challenges of restaurant life and work toward preserving a place that matters to them.

Manny’s Table: Family, Food and a Place to Belong in Vienna BY TANIA REYES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAURICO CORDEIRO AND THE ANDRADE FAMILY

VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

A Childhood Shaped by the Diner Manny was born in Fairfax and raised in the country around Middletown and Front Royal. His family’s story reaches well beyond Virginia, with his mother’s side from Kentucky and his father’s side from El Salvador. His parents met in Virginia and worked at and ran the 29 Diner. “I grew up in the diner life,” Manny says. That upbringing introduced him to hospitality through the people closest to him. His extended family’s businesses and restaurants became the foundation of his culinary education, giving him a connection to cooking that was personal long before it became professional. His experience in the restaurant world has taken him through Virginia, West Virginia, Florida, Georgia, Colorado, Maryland and Arkansas. Yet the thread running through those places is family. Manny credits relatives who traveled widely, cooked and operated businesses with helping shape what he brings to his own restaurant today. That family connection remains part of his working life. His sister, Jackie, is a cook, and when he describes the people important to his story, he also names his aunt Gloria Andrade, his grandmother Manuela Andrade and his grandmother Naomi, whom he calls Memaw. For Manny, telling the story of his restaurant means recognizing the people who helped him get there. Finding His Place at the Virginian When the opportunity at the Virginian became available in 2022, Manny felt that “the stars aligned.” He moved to Vienna and became involved in the restaurant’s inner workings, bringing his background in diners and hospitality to a new chapter. The experience has included ups and

downs, something Manny acknowledges openly. What has helped him keep going is the support of Vienna’s residents and the relationships he has formed within the restaurant. He speaks warmly about waitress Adela, whose working history spans 35 years, and cook Nate, whose spans 30. Alongside his sister Jackie, they are among the people Manny names when describing the restaurant family he has come to appreciate. His goal is not simply to have a restaurant. It is to help an established place continue while becoming part of the community around it. Manny sees those ambitions as connected: the business gives him a way to contribute, and the town gives him encouragement to grow. “The people are what make the Virginian,” he says. Manny now lives near Madison High School and Mosby’s Landing. Vienna has become more than the location of his work; it is a place where he feels he belongs. Two Menus, One Busy Day Manny’s days are full, often stretching from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant serves its American diner menu from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a two-hour

transition before its Korean American dinner service, offered Monday through Friday from 4 to 9 p.m. The dinner venture represents another part of Manny’s effort to move the restaurant forward while continuing its daytime diner service. It also means managing the practical demands of two distinct parts of the day. Even during our interview for Vienna Living, Manny’s busy schedule comes through. As he talks about the restaurant, a consistent story emerges: someone working long hours to keep it going while making space for new ideas and community involvement. Feeding Neighbors Together One of Manny’s most meaningful community efforts is “Manny’s Feeding Our Neighbors,” a Thanksgiving initiative for neighbors experiencing food insecurity. With help from volunteers, community outreach and donations, the effort provided 510 Thanksgiving meals in 2025. Manny credits the support of Vienna Foodies and Lydia Russo, along with Peggy James and the Vienna Business Association, in making that possible. And we look forward to another successful Thanksgiving this year. He plans to hold the effort again, drawing on the same willingness of neighbors to contribute. The Thanksgiving meals offer a concrete expression of what Manny values about Vienna. The community has helped sustain his restaurant, and the restaurant, in turn, offers a way to help others. For him, feeding people extends beyond the regular menu.

Country Roots and Time on the Water Outside the restaurant, Manny’s interests re ect his country upbringing. He has a small homestead in the Middletown– Front Royal area, with gardens, chickens, ducks, beehives, a natural swimming pool and a koi pond. His animals include two Australian Shepherds, Leah and Han Solo; a peacock named Johnny; and a cat named Molly. He also enjoys reef keeping and has a yellow sh named Lemon in his reef tank. An avid sherman, Manny remembers a trip to Nassau in the Bahamas when he caught a strawberry grouper. He thought the sh was beautiful enough to want it in his aquarium, but released it so it could grow larger and perhaps be caught by another angler. Travel also keeps him connected to family. He looks forward to visiting relatives in El Salvador, where his uncle has a dairy farm and his large extended family offers another connection to his roots. Those roots remain close, even as Manny builds his life in Vienna. At the Virginian, his family’s in uence, his employees’ experience and his neighbors’ support all meet in one place. For Manny, that is what makes the restaurant meaningful: the opportunity to carry forward a legacy, serve the people around him and keep growing in a community he is proud to call home.r

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". VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR BY DR. GEMA ISLAND

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VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Emmaus United Church of Christ: Six Decades of Welcome, Service & Community

Submitted by Tania Reyes // Photos provided by Emmaus United Church of Christ

long Maple Avenue, a brightly painted pantry offers neighbors something simple but meaningful: food when they need it, without an appointment or a closing time. At Emmaus United Church of Christ, that small structure re ects a larger commitment to putting faith into action. Celebrating 60 years in Vienna, the congregation brings together worship, fellowship and service, inviting people to nd both a place of belonging and opportunities to care for others.

A Journey Rooted in Vienna Emmaus began as the McLean-Vienna Mission Parish in October 1964 and was of cially founded on May 15, 1966. Led by the Rev. Thomas Cox, its founding congregation numbered 76 people, including one who remains a member today.

The church takes its name from the biblical account of Christ’s postresurrection appearance on the road to Emmaus. That journey is depicted in a stained-glass window at the front of the sanctuary, a reminder of the congregation’s continuing exploration of faith and purpose. Before its original sanctuary and education buildings were dedicated in 1970, Emmaus held services at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Its current sanctuary was dedicated in November 1990. Today, the campus serves more than one congregation. Meekins Preschool has been part of the property since 1970, and Vienna Baptist Church began worshipping there in 2025. A large, shaded playground is supported and enjoyed by all three groups. For longtime neighbors, Emmaus may also be remembered as the “Dove

VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

church.” During Advent, a 140-pound dove with a nine-foot wingspan once hung among the cedar trees. Created by church families in the 1980s, it made its nal appearance in 2023 after years of wear. A smaller, member-made dove now graces the sanctuary during Advent, carrying the tradition forward. Small Pantries, Meaningful Help The Little Free Pantry and Period Pantry are among Emmaus’ most direct connections to neighbors in need. Both were built by young people committed to helping others, and both receive ongoing support from church members and the wider Vienna community. The food pantry is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Its proximity to a Maple Avenue bus stop makes it convenient for people experiencing food insecurity, and the congregation reports

© Best Version Media that its shelves are often emptied several times daily. What began as a youth project has become a shared community effort. Members of the Vienna Foodies Facebook Group and the One Neighborhood Foundation help monitor and replenish supplies, alongside other generous neighbors. Shelf-stable food and hygiene products are always welcome. A donation bin beside the church’s front door makes contributing straightforward. These efforts embody the congregation’s stated commitment to “being instruments for Love in the world, welcoming all and seeking justice for all.” Service Near and Far Emmaus’ outreach extends beyond its grounds. Rise Against Hunger mealpacking events bring people together to address hunger, while the church hosts the Vienna CROP Walk, bene ting the local Committee for Helping Others and communities around the world. Through Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement, known as V.O.I.C.E., Emmaus joins people across religious, racial, economic and political differences to work on regional concerns. Those efforts address behavioral health,

transportation, affordable housing, criminal justice reform and immigration. The congregation also participates in Northern Virginia voter-engagement work. Young people share in that serviceminded approach. In 2026, youth mission trips took participants to Jamaica to help rebuild after Hurricane Melissa and to Pikeville, Kentucky, to repair oodaffected homes and support a foodinsecure Appalachian region. A Welcome Lived Out Emmaus describes itself as an inclusive, open and af rming congregation. Its history includes the 1982 ordination of the Rev. Anne Holmes, the rst openly lesbian minister in the United Church of Christ. That commitment continues through Pride Month worship and activities, participation in the Capital Pride Parade, and visible messages of welcome. In May, the church brought the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington to Vienna for a sold-out evening of songs and stories. Connection also grows through a book club, weekly crafting and Bible study, men’s and women’s groups, and an annual retreat with camp res, songs and outdoor activities. Children and teenagers can participate in Sunday

VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

school and youth programming. For seventh through ninth graders, Our Whole Lives helps young people make informed, responsible decisions about relationships, health and behavior within the context of faith. The congregation’s message is direct: “Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome here at Emmaus!” Gathering Around a Common Table A new partnership with Vienna Baptist Church offers another way to connect. Common Table blends prayer, worship, fellowship and dinner in an interactive gathering for all ages. The next gatherings are November 8 and December 6 at 5 p.m. in the Emmaus parlor. Food and drinks will be provided, with a suggested donation of $5 per person. On Christmas Eve, a 5 p.m. service features a no-rehearsal pageant, with costumes available and all ages welcome. A 9 p.m. candlelight service offers a more re ective celebration through lessons and carols. For Vienna residents, involvement can begin with a pantry donation, a community event or a visit. Emmaus is located at 900 Maple Avenue East, Vienna. Details are available at emmausucc.org or by calling 703-9381555. Sixty years after its founding, the congregation continues to make its welcome tangible—through shared meals, open doors and neighbors helping neighbors. d

BUSINESS PROFILE

Brain Balance of Northern Virginia:

Making an Impact in the Community By Elia Twist // Photos provided by Brain Balance of Northern Virginia

ocated at 11800 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 275 in Reston, and after seven months of operations, Brain Balance of Northern Virginia is becoming a growing resource for families throughout Northern Virginia. Led by Center Director Taylor Austin and Program Director Mike Janak, the Center is committed to supporting children, teens, adults, and families who are navigating challenges related to focus, learning, behavior, social skills, executive functioning, and development. At Brain Balance, the team believes that every individual is unique—and that families deserve support that looks beyond a single challenge or symptom. The Brain Balance Program is a comprehensive, non-medical approach that incorporates sensory engagement, physical activities, cognitive exercises, and nutritional guidance. The goal is to help participants strengthen brain connections (neuroplasticity) that can support greater con dence, function and success in everyday life. But Brain Balance of Northern Virginia is about more than the program itself. It is about building a stronger, more connected community for local families. The center owner, Ginny Heine, and her team are passionate about creating a welcoming environment where parents are heard, children are encouraged, and

families have access to resources that can help them better understand their options. The Center strives to be a place where families can ask questions, learn about brain health and development, and connect with a team that genuinely cares about their journey. As the school year gets underway, many families notice challenges that may have been less apparent during the summer. Increased academic demands, new routines, social expectations, and organizational responsibilities can make dif culties with attention, learning, behavior, or executive functioning more noticeable. For some families, this can be an overwhelming time. Brain Balance of Northern Virginia wants families to know they do not have to navigate those challenges alone. Moving forward, the Center plans to deepen its involvement throughout the Northern Virginia community by building meaningful relationships with schools, educators, healthcare professionals, therapists, youth organizations, community groups, and local businesses. Through these partnerships, Brain Balance hopes to connect families with valuable resources and create a stronger network of support for children and adults throughout the area. The team also plans to host

educational events, community outreach opportunities, family-focused programs, and informational workshops designed to help parents better understand brain health, learning, development, and the different resources available to them. Ultimately, the vision is simple: to support more families with information and resources to empower them to meet their goals in life. For Ginny, Taylor, Mike and all of the Brain Balance team, making an impact means more than helping participants inside the Center. It means becoming an active part of the Northern Virginia community—listening to families, collaborating with local organizations, sharing resources, and creating opportunities for people to connect. At Vienna Living, we believe that communities are strongest when local organizations come together to support the people who live in them. Brain Balance of Northern Virginia is working to do exactly that by creating connections, expanding awareness, and helping families discover resources that may support their unique needs. As Brain Balance of Northern Virginia looks toward the future, Ginny Heine and her team are excited to continue growing alongside the community and nding new ways to serve local families. r

THE BRAIN CAN CHANGE AT ANY AGE No medication. Just results.

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VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES

REAL ESTATE STATISTICS

Vienna, Virginia

COMPILED BY KAREN GRAVES

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$899,900 9412 Talisman Dr 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 2,268 SqFt AGF 0.21 Acres

$1,195,000 9641 Cinnamon Creek Dr 5 Beds 3/0 Baths 1,440 SqFt AGF0.41Acres

$4,500,000 1521 Hunter Mill Rd 10 Beds 9/4 Baths 10,500 SqFt AGF 2.00 Acres

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$985,000 8143 Madrillon Ct 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,452 SqFt AGF 0.07 Acres

$910,000 8413 Rainbow Rd 2 Beds 2/0 Baths 1,204 SqFt AGF 0.69 Acres

$1,173,000 1713 Pine Valley Dr 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,278 SqFt AGF 0.27 Acres

$875,000 8004 Trevor Pl 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 1,644 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres

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$975,000 9112 Leesburg Pike 0 Beds 0 Baths 1,620 SqFt AGF 1.40 Acres

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data listed. 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

NOVEMBER 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Tue., Nov. 10

Fri., Nov. 13

Sat., Nov. 21

An Evening With John Cusack and a Special Screening of Say Anything* @Capital One Hall Watch the classic 1989 lm Say Anything with star John Cusack in person. The event was rescheduled from July 24, and the venue says previously purchased tickets will be honored. Time: Doors 7:00pm Cost: Starts $54.10 www.capitalonehall.com/events/detail

Family Fun Fridays @Riverbend Park, Great Falls Stop by the Riverbend nature center for books, crafts, games, natural objects, puzzles, and a brief naturalist presentation or read-aloud. This drop-in program is designed for all ages. Time: 12:00pm–5:00pm Cost: $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend

Danger Bird: Bringing You the Music of Neil Young @The Vault at Capital One Hall Hear a live tribute to Neil Young in The Vault, Capital One Hall’s intimate livemusic venue. Time: Doors 7:00pm; event starts 8:00pm Cost: Starts $28.50 www.capitalonehall.com/events/detail

Thurs., Nov. 12

Fri., Nov. 27

National Gallery Nights: Gratitude @National Gallery of Arts The nal edition of the National Gallery of Art's fall slate of after-hours events welcomes you to create tokens of appreciation as the season of giving gets under way, build a communal mosaic, write poetry and dance the night away to the beats of DJ Chan Don. Lottery for registration opens on Nov. 2 at 10 a.m. and closes at 12 p.m. on Nov. 5 Time: 6:00pm–9:00pm Cost: FREE w/Lottery www.nga.gov/calendar

Be Like Blippi Tour! @Capital One Hall Blippi and Meekah bring familiar songs, movement, games, and audience participation to the stage, including “The Excavator Song” and “Dino Dance.” Children age 12 and younger must attend with a parent or guardian. Time: 2:00pm and 5:00pm Cost: Starts $46.75 www.capitalonehall.com/events/detail

Thu., Nov. 12 National Gallery Nights: Gratitude @National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC Spend an after-hours evening with community art-making, poetry, a collective mosaic, and music by DJ Chan Don. Admission is free, but attendees must register through the National Gallery’s lottery. Time: 6:00pm–9:00pm Cost: FREE; registration required www.washington.org

Fri., Nov. 13 Blade Runner Live @Capital One Hall See Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner (the 2007 Final Cut) on a large HD screen while the Avex Ensemble performs Vangelis’ electronic score live. The show is 2 hours and 18 minutes, including intermission, and the lm is rated R. Time: Doors 6:30pm Cost: Starts $56.85 www.capitalonehall.com/events

Fri., Nov. 20–Sun., Dec. 27 Enchant Christmas @Nationals Park, Washington, DC Nationals Park becomes a seasonal attraction with a large holiday-light maze and festive activities for families. Timed tickets are required, and admission options vary by date. Time: Varies by date/Event Cost: Starts $28 www.enchantchristmas.com

VIENNA LIVING

NOVEMBER 2026

Sat., Nov. 28 Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas @Capital One Hall Rick Schuler performs a holiday program celebrating the music and warm acoustic sound associated with John Denver. Capital One Hall lists the concert as appropriate for all ages. Time: 7:30pm Cost: Starts $107.95 www.capitalonehall.com/events/detail

Now til Jan. 3, 2027

Fri., Dec. 4

Sun., Dec. 6

Winter Walk of Lights @Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna Kid-friendly. Stroll through a half-mile garden trail illuminated with sparkling trees and nature, winter, and holidaythemed displays. The paved route is wheelchair–and stroller–accessible, with hot drinks and s’mores available for purchase. Time: Through Dec. 3, 5:30pm–10:00pm; Dec. 4–Jan. 3, 5:00pm–10:00pm Cost: Through Dec. 3, $19 online or $24 at the door; Dec. 4–31, $24 online only www.novaparks.com/events

New York Arabic Orchestra @The Barns at Wolf Trap, Vienna Experience a concert blending Arabic musical traditions, co-produced with the Middle East Institute Arts & Culture Center and Abu Dhabi Festival. Time: 8:00pm Cost: $60 www.wolftrap.org/show

Fairfax Holiday Market and Photos with Santa @Old Town Square, Fairfax Kid-friendly. Browse the holiday market and stop for a free photo with Santa during the afternoon; bring your own camera. Time: Market, 12:00pm–5:00pm; Santa photos, 1:00pm–4:00pm Cost: FREE admission and Santa photos www.fairfaxva.gov/events-directory

Sat., Nov. 14 – Sun., Jan. 3, 2027 Bull Run Festival of Lights @Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville Kid-friendly. Drive through 2.5 miles of festive light displays, then visit the Holiday Village, stable, and carnival. Carnival rides and camel rides cost extra. Time: Mon.–Thurs., 5:30pm–9:30pm; Fri.–Sun. and holidays, 5:30pm–10:00pm Open daily, weather permitting Cost: $30–$45 per vehicle when purchased in advance online www.novaparks.com/events

Thurs., Dec. 3 The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show @Capital One Hall BenDeLaCreme and Jinkx Monsoon bring their holiday comedy spectacular to Capital One Center, with original songs, elaborate costumes, storytelling, and dance. Time: 7:00pm; doors open at 6:00pm Cost: $66.45+ www.capitalonehall.com/events

Fri., Dec. 4 – Sun., Dec. 6th Fairfax Holiday Market @Old Town Square, Fairfax Kid-friendly; recurring weekend event. Browse handcrafted gifts from local artisans and enjoy festive entertainment at the rst evening of Fairfax’s twoweekend holiday market. Time: 5:00pm–8:00pm Cost: FREE admission www.fairfaxva.gov/Events-directory

Fri., Dec. 4–Sun., Dec. 6 2026 American Holiday Festival @DAR Constitution Hall, Washington, DC Holiday concert. The U.S. Army Orchestra presents its annual holiday festival; tickets become available November 2 at noon, while supplies last. Time: Fri., 8:00pm; Sat., 3:00pm and 8:00pm; Sun., 3:00pm Cost: Tickets go live on November 2nd www.usarmyband.com/concert-series

Sat., Dec. 5 It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play @Vienna Community Center A Town of Vienna–sponsored production brings George Bailey’s story to the stage as a 1940s radio broadcast. Tickets will be available at the door only. Time: 4:00pm and 7:00pm Cost: $5 Children | $10 Adults | $8 Seniors www.viennava.gov/events-directory

Sat., Dec. 5 Michael Winograd and The Honorable Mentshn: Dreidels, Donuts, and Dance @The Barns at Wolf Trap, Vienna Kid-friendly. Celebrate the second night of Hanukkah with a family dance party led by klezmer clarinetist Michael Winograd and his band, with dancing and donuts. Time: 6:30pm Cost: $32+ www.wolftrap.org/show

Fri., Dec. 11 – Sun., Dec. 13 Fairfax Holiday Market @Old Town Square, Fairfax Kid-friendly; recurring weekend event. The market returns for its second weekend with another selection of local artisans and handcrafted gifts. Time: 5:00pm–8:00pm Cost: FREE admission www.fairfaxva.gov/events-directory

Sun., Dec. 13 Fairfax Holiday Market / Paws & Claus @Old Town Square, Fairfax Kid-friendly and pet-friendly. Finish your market shopping and bring your pet for a free picture with Santa during Paws and Claus; bring your own camera. Time: Market, 12:00pm–5:00pm; Paws and Claus, 1:00pm–4:00pm Cost: FREE admission and pet photos www.fairfaxva.gov/events-directory

Sun., Dec. 20 Seasonal Serenade @Capital One Hall The Virginia Chamber Orchestra performs holiday favorites with soprano Melissa Mino Haines and its High School Concerto Competition winner, closing with a festive sing-along. Time: 4:00pm; doors open at 3:00pm Cost: Ticketed; (Admission price not veri ed) www.capitalonehall.com/events

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.

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NOVEMBER 2026

RECIPE CORNER

By Erin Vander Weele

hile the turkey is the staple of a traditional Thanksgiving feast, side dishes make the meal complete. Sweet potatoes are among the most cherished holiday side dishes. The dish evokes a sense of comfort and brings a naturally sweet, rich avor to the holiday table.

INGREDIENTS • 4 medium sweet potatoes, cooked and peeled • ¼ cup pure maple syrup • ¼ cup butter, melted • 3 large eggs, beaten • 1 tsp salt • 1 tbsp orange juice • ½ cup half and half

PECAN TOPPING • • • • •

1 cup chopped pecans ½ cup brown sugar ½ cup our ¼ cup butter, melted ½ tsp cinnamon

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Mash the cooked and peeled sweet potatoes in a large bowl. Stir in maple syrup, butter, eggs, salt, orange juice and half and half. 2. Pour mixture into a 13x9 inch baking pan. 3. For the topping, in a small bowl combine brown sugar, pecans, our and cinnamon. Pour melted butter into the mixture. Stir until crumbly, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the potatoes. 4. Bake for 45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.

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

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

THE BUSINESS MINUTE

You Can Sell Your Business & Still Be Part of

Its Next Chapter By Erika Baez-Grimes, CM&AP

W Erika Baez-Grimes, Certi ed M&A Advisor Founder | ETA Educator The Silver Tsunami Group Powerhouse Ventures The BPH Group www.Erikathebroker.com Erika@ErikatheBroker.com O: 404.750.379 C: 804.750.3008 F: 804.331.0198 OFFICES: Vienna, VA | Orlando, FL

hat if you could sell your business, receive the nancial bene t of everything you've built & continue doing the work you genuinely enjoy? For many established business owners, this is an option worth exploring. When most founders think of “selling a company” the thought is often associated with retirement or a complete departure. In reality, ownership transitions can be structured around an owner's nancial objectives, professional interests & desired lifestyle. You can transition out of “the weeds” “the operations” and “public ownership” without transitioning out of your profession. How Professional Cash Out & Continue Doing What They Love Consider a dentist who’s spent years building a

successful practice. They enjoy treating patients and maintaining relationships but would welcome relief from managing employees, overseeing operations and handling the administrative demands of ownership. A practice sale could allow that dentist to receive negotiated proceeds and remain as a compensated Key Person inside his or her organization, continuing to provide patient care under new ownership. The same principle applies beyond healthcare. A founder may sell a consulting rm yet remain focused on major client relationships, or transition ownership of a service company while serving as a strategic advisor. The professional contribution continues. The responsibilities change. You May Not Need to Sell Everything Another possibility is selling a majority interest while retaining a smaller ownership stake. This can provide some immediate liquidity while allowing the founder to remain nancially invested in the company's future. A strategic partner may introduce additional capital,

management capabilities or infrastructure to support expansion. The owner can then negotiate a role aligned with their strengths rather than continuing to carry every operational responsibility. Think Beyond the Sale Price Before deciding whether to sell, consider what you want your life to look like afterward. Would you prefer to work fewer days? Continue serving clients? Mentor the next generation? Remain involved in strategic decisions? Or pursue other interests while earning compensation in a different capacity? Your answers can help shape the type of buyer, ownership structure & postsale agreement that best aligns with your goals. The right preparation includes understanding your business's value, evaluating potential buyers and documenting the nancial and professional arrangements that matter most. Selling your business doesn't have to mean saying goodbye to it. Sometimes, the next chapter is about continuing the work you love, with a different title, a different ownership structure & greater freedom to choose what comes next. r

Selling your business doesn't have to mean saying goodbye to it. Sometimes, the next chapter is about continuing the work you love, with a different title, a different ownership structure and greater freedom to choose what comes next.

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More Than a DONUT–It’s a Taste of Community! At Texas Donuts, quality is baked into everything we do. From our handcrafted, fresh-everymorning donuts to our exceptional team, we take pride in creating a welcoming experience where every customer feels like family. As a locally owned business, we’re proud to be part of the Northern Virginia community and to support the people and organizations that make it special. Our loyal following is a testament to the delicious quality, genuine hospitality, and personal service we provide every day. Come experience the wonderful people behind every smile. Texas Donuts—where great donuts and great community come together!

CENTREVILLE 13830 Lee Hwy #4 703-543-8343

MANASSAS 8130 Ashton Ave. #106 703-369-1769

RS: SED U O H CLO 3pm : y ~ sda : 5am pm e u T at ~3 n-S 6am o M : Sun LORTON 8224 Gunston Corner Lane 703-551-3110

VIENNA 167 Glyndon St. SE 571-407-5048

texasdonutsva.com

CHECK OUR REVIEWS ONLINE

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

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

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