Issuu

ENRICHING EACH OTHER, ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY! SEPTEMBER 2026 | ISSUE #34

The Heart

Vienna of

Business

Cover photo by Mauricio Cordeiro

VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

Oktoberfest 2026! ENRICHING EACH OTHER, ENHANCING OUR COMMUNITY! Dear Neighbors! PUBLICATION TEAM

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

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.

September always brings a special energy to our community. As summer gives way to cooler days, families settle back into school routines, local businesses welcome the busy fall season, and neighbors gather to celebrate everything that makes Vienna such a wonderful place to call home. It's one of my favorite times of the year, lled with community spirit, cherished traditions, and opportunities to support one another. This month's feature shines a spotlight on one of Vienna's most anticipated annual traditions—the Vienna Business Association's Oktoberfest, taking place on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Presented by the Vienna Business Association in partnership with the Town of Vienna, Oktoberfest has grown into the VBA's largest annual fundraiser and one of Northern Virginia's most beloved fall festivals, welcoming approximately 30,000 visitors each year. Under the outstanding leadership of Peggy James and the dedicated Vienna Business Association Board of Directors, this incredible event brings our community together for a day of live entertainment, delicious food, local craft beer and wine, artisan vendors, family activities, and hometown fun. Every visit, every purchase, and every toast helps support local charities while strengthening the vibrant business community that makes Vienna so unique. If you've never experienced Vienna's Oktoberfest, I encourage you to mark your calendar. Spend the day exploring local businesses, enjoying seasonal avors, discovering talented artisans, and celebrating with friends and neighbors. It's a wonderful reminder that when a community comes together, everyone bene ts. We are also honored to feature Fairfax Diapers as our September Non-Pro t Spotlight. Since its founding in 2019 by Christine Kenny, Fairfax Diapers has distributed more than 1.8 million diapers to local families through partnerships with nonpro t organizations across our region. Their mission to reduce diaper insecurity and raise awareness of this critical need demonstrates the extraordinary compassion that exists within our community. We applaud the dedicated volunteers, supporters, and partners whose generosity helps ensure that every child has access to this basic necessity. Finally, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our incredible business sponsors. Your continued partnership makes Vienna Living possible each and every month. Because of your support, we are able to celebrate the people, businesses, schools, nonpro ts, and community events that make Vienna such an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family. I encourage our readers to support the local businesses featured throughout this magazine. When you choose to shop, dine, and do business locally, you are investing in the strength and future of our community. Our sponsors are more than advertisers—they are neighbors, community leaders, and champions of Vienna. Thank you for being part of the Vienna Living family. I hope you enjoy this issue, and I look forward to seeing you at Oktoberfest as we celebrate another wonderful season together. Warmly,

Publisher, Vienna Living

VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

© 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!

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Board Certi ed Pediatric Dentist ISLAND CHILDREN'S DENTISTRY 703-790-1320 islandchildrensdentistry.com

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

VIENNA LIVING

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ktoberfest O OCTOBER 3, 2026

11am to 7pm | Church Street, Vienna VA

• Huge Selection of beer and wine! • Live entertainment on Three Stages • Tons of Multinational Food • Lots of Free Kids Activities

• Business Expo Showcase • Vendor & Artisan Marketplace • Free Shuttle from Vienna Metro & JMHS • Bike Garden, Bike & Fest

ViennaOktoberfest.org Presented by The Vienna Business Association and The Town of Vienna

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

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COVER STORY

Building Connections: How the Vienna Business Association Strengthens a Town

BY TANIA REYES PHOTOS PROVIDED BY PEGGY JAMES

n any given day in Vienna, a handshake can turn into a partnership, a casual introduction into a lasting collaboration. Behind many of those connections is a quiet but powerful force: the Vienna Business Association (VBA). Since its founding, the VBA has helped shape not just the local business landscape, but the sense of community that de nes the town itself.

Where it All Began Established in 2013, the Vienna Business Association was created with a clear and ambitious goal: to support and elevate local businesses while strengthening the broader community. Founding members Kathy Georgen and DH Scarborough quite literally walked the streets of Vienna, going door to door to share their vision of a chamber rooted in local connection and advocacy.

VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

What began as a grassroots effort quickly grew into a cornerstone organization for the Greater Vienna area. Early board members worked together to build the foundation, developing bylaws, establishing programming, and setting the tone for what would become a highly engaged and community-driven network. Today, the VBA operates out of its of ce on Church Street NW, serving as

© Best Version Media both a resource hub and a connector for businesses, nonpro ts, and residents alike. Its mission remains grounded in the same principles that sparked its creation: community, support, connection, advocacy, and outreach. Life in the Local Business Community For many members, the VBA is more than a professional network, it is a reliable and welcoming space to build relationships. Through a consistent lineup of monthly events, the organization creates opportunities for business owners and community members to come together in meaningful ways. The First Friday Breakfast at Nozzo Pazzo offers a relaxed, open environment where both members and non-members can meet, exchange ideas, and start their day with new connections. The monthly VBA Lunch, held on the second Thursday, combines networking with educational value through guest speakers and locally catered meals. Meanwhile, the popular mixers, typically held on the last Tuesday of each month, bring a more casual energy, allowing attendees to gather over light refreshments while exploring different member businesses. Each event is intentionally designed

to foster collaboration. Attendees are encouraged to share updates, promote upcoming initiatives, and support one another’s growth. As one VBA leader puts it, “We’ve created a community of business owners that support one another and support the Town of Vienna. We really make a difference in connecting people.” Beyond in-person gatherings, the VBA also offers virtual member training sessions, ensuring accessibility and ongoing support. These sessions introduce members to marketing tools and resources that help them expand their reach and visibility. Beyond the Front Door While networking is a core component of the VBA, its impact extends far beyond business development. The organization plays an active role in many of Vienna’s most beloved events and traditions, reinforcing its commitment to the town as a whole. Among its signature contributions is Vienna Oktoberfest, a large-scale, family-friendly event that draws more than 30,000 visitors each year. With three stages of live music, over 100 vendors, and a vibrant mix of food, artisans, and local businesses, the event transforms the town into a lively celebration. The Town Green becomes

VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

a hub for families, featuring a free Kids Zone with games, music, and activities. Importantly, Oktoberfest also serves a philanthropic purpose. Proceeds from beer and wine sales bene t the VBA Foundation, which supports numerous nonpro t organizations throughout the Greater Vienna area. The event’s success relies heavily on community volunteers, including groups like Kids Give Back, Shelter House, the Vienna Rotary Club, the Elks Lodge, Scout Troops, and Madison Crew, each contributing to the seamless execution of the day. Another key event, Get Healthy Vienna, focuses on wellness and community education. Hosted at the Vienna Community Center, the expo brings together health and wellness professionals, offering resources for all ages. With engaging vendors and family-friendly entertainment, including appearances by the Vienna Singing Princesses, the event re ects the VBA’s commitment to holistic community well-being. In addition to hosting its own events, the VBA actively supports others across town. From Liberty Amendment Month to Viva Vienna, the Halloween Parade, and Taste of Vienna, the organization contributes through sponsorship, volunteer coordination, marketing support, and hands-on participation.

COVER STORY (CONT)

Whether pouring beer to raise funds for the re department or organizing parade judges, the VBA’s presence is felt across nearly every major community gathering. A Leadership Journey Rooted in Connection At the heart of the VBA’s ongoing success is passionate leadership. Peggy James began her journey as an original board member while owning The Artful Gift Shop on Church Street. As a rst-time business owner, she recognized early on the importance of community support and engagement. Her involvement eventually evolved into a leadership role, and today, as Executive Director, she plays a central part in guiding the organization’s growth and outreach. Re ecting on her experience, she shares, “This Chamber of Commerce means the world to me. It has been the connection between so many people and businesses.” The role is demanding but deeply rewarding. Through her work, she has built relationships not only with business owners, but also with residents, schools, nonpro ts, and local government. “It’s an amazing feeling when you can connect people, when someone has a problem and you can help them nd the person who can solve it,” she explains. Her story mirrors the broader mission of the VBA: creating pathways for collaboration and strengthening the fabric of the community one connection at a time. Why Vienna Feels Like Home What sets the Vienna Business Association apart is its deeply local focus. This is not an organization operating at a distance, it is built by Vienna, for Vienna. Many of its members are also residents, and neighbors frequently volunteer at events or participate in initiatives that support the town. One example of this local commitment is the VBA’s Welcome Bag program, which reaches new residents each month. Filled with information, offers, and resources from local businesses, these bags serve as a warm introduction to the community while helping newcomers quickly feel connected. The organization also emphasizes the importance of shopping small and supporting local enterprises. In a town known for its charm and close-knit atmosphere, independent businesses play a vital role in shaping its identity. That philosophy resonates throughout everything the VBA does, from its events and programming to its partnerships and outreach efforts.

VIENNA LIVING

A Community That Grows Together As Vienna continues to evolve, the Vienna Business Association remains a steady and unifying presence. Its work ensures that growth does not come at the expense of connection, and that local businesses continue to thrive alongside the community they serve. Whether through a bustling festival, a morning networking event, or a simple introduction between neighbors, the VBA’s in uence is woven into the daily life of the town. It is a reminder that strong communities are built not just on commerce, but on relationships, shared experiences, and a collective commitment to supporting one another. In Vienna, that spirit is alive and well, and the Vienna Business Association is helping lead the way. For more information on the VBA please visit www. viennabusiness.org. 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".

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THE BUSINESS MINUTE

The New Path to Ownership:

Why Parents Are Buying Businesses for Their Kids By Erika Baez-Grimes, CM&AP

Gone are the days when parents measured success by a fat envelope from an Ivy League university! Today, a growing number of parents across the country are leaning into something different; Their kids' entrepreneurial spirit. Instead of tuition checks, some are writing checks for franchises and online businesses instead, giving their sons & daughters a turnkey path into ownership rather than the pressure of a diploma. It's not a fringe idea anymore. With roughly 9000+ franchise brands now operating across the country, according to the International Franchise Association (IFA), the options for a hands-on family business venture have never been broader. For parents who want their kids to feel real ownership without the blind risk of starting from scratch, franchising often hits the sweet spot. A franchise comes with a proven playbook already built in, brand recognition, systems, training, and a support network that a brand-new startup simply doesn't have. That structure matters for a kid in their twenties who has the drive to run something but maybe not

VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

© Best Version Media yet the scar tissue of having built a business from nothing. It also gives parents real peace of mind, they're not betting on an unproven idea, they're backing a model that's already worked for other franchisees. I work with families exploring exactly this kind of opportunity, and it's rewarding to watch a parent and their kid walk into a business together with a real structure already in place. Franchising isn't the only path, though…As more commerce moves online, some parents are turning their attention to buying established online businesses outright for their kids, everything from e commerce brands to subscription-based companies. It's a model that appeals especially to kids who grew up online and think in digital rst terms rather than brick and mortar ones. The tradeoff is support. Unlike a franchise, an online business usually doesn't come with a built-in system or a network to lean on, so it works best when the family already has, or is willing to build, their own team around it for growth. That's part of why franchising

remains the ideal t for many parents, the structure and support are already there on day one. Whether it's a franchise with a proven playbook or an online business built for a digital native, buying a business for your child is becoming one more way

parents are backing their kids' futures, alongside or instead of a college fund. If you're a parent thinking about this path for your own son or daughter, or even considering it for yourself, My team and I are happy to be a resource for any questions around franchising & business ownership opportunities. r

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RECIPE

Nicoise salad By Carmella Antonino

VegetariaN recipe

Serves 4 to 6 | Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins This Niçoise salad recipe is a perfect summer lunch! Enjoy this recipe as a salad without greens, but you could serve it over a bed of arugula or mixed greens if you prefer. INGREDIENTS 8 ounces small yellow or red potatoes 4 ounces fresh green beans, trimmed ¾ cup cooked white beans, drained and rinsed 3 hard-boiled eggs, halved 4 artichoke hearts, drained and halved 1 cup quartered radishes and/or sliced cucumber 1cup cherry tomatoes, halved ½ cup Niçoise or Kalamata olives, pitted and halved 2 tablespoons of capers, drained Lemon Vinaigrette, for drizzling 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Flaky sea salt Freshly ground black pepper

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 1 inch. Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, until fork-tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and when cool enough to handle, slice in half or quarters.

Re ll the pot with water, bring it to a boil, and set a bowl of cold water nearby. Drop the green beans into the boiling water and blanch for 2 minutes. Drain and immediately immerse in the freezing water. After 1 minute, drain and place on a kitchen towel to dry.

Assemble salad with potatoes, green beans, white beans, eggs, artichokes, radishes, tomatoes, olives, and capers. Drizzle generously with the lemon vinaigrette. Sprinkle with parsley and season to taste with salt and pepper.

If you prefer, feel free to add tuna or salmon.

VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

RECENT REAL ESTATE SALES

REAL ESTATE STATISTICS

Vienna, Virginia

COMPILED BY KAREN GRAVES

$750,000 8174 Electric Ave 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 1,496 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres

$850,000 2004 Gallows Tree Ln 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 1,584 SqFt AGF 0.04 Acres

$1,440,000 8401 Cardinal Glen Ct 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,644 SqFt AGF 0.21 Acres

$2,420,000 2006 Lord Fairfax Rd 6 Beds 6/0 Baths 5,800 SqFt AGF 0.53 Acres

$607,000 8866 Ashgrove House Ln #201 2 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,336 SqFt AGF 0.00 Acres

$1,302,500 8517 Electric Ave 5 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,235 SqFt AGF 0.43 Acres

$1,180,000 1914 Contralto Ct 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,099 SqFt AGF 0.37 Acres

$1,125,000 10011 Carpers Farm Ct 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,656 SqFt AGF 0.59 Acres

$1,350,000 9833 Squaw Valley Dr 4 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,724 SqFt AGF 0.62 Acres

$1,222,000 2323 Sawtooth Oak Ct 3 Beds 3/1 Baths 2,476 SqFt AGF 0.09 Acres

$1,380,000 9411 Cello Ct 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 3,700 SqFt AGF 0.47 Acres

$1,210,000 1706 Burning Tree Dr 4 Beds 2/1 Baths 1,357 SqFt AGF 0.24 Acres

$645,000 7914 Tyson Oaks Cir 3 Beds 2/2 Baths 1,220 SqFt AGF 0.00 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

SEPTEMBER 2026

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Compiled by Tania Reyes

Tue., Sept. 1

Sept. 5 & 6

Sat., Sept. 13

James Taylor & His All-Star Band @The Barns at Wolf Trap James Taylor brings his all-star band to one of Wolf Trap’s most intimate performance spaces for an evening of classic singer-songwriter music. Time: 7:30pm | Cost: Ticketed event www.wolftrap.org/calendar

Middle Eastern Food Festival @Holy Trans guration Melkite GreekCatholic Church The Festival will showcase authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, traditional pastries, music and dancing, vendors, church tours, a silent auction, and activities for all ages. Time: Sept. 5: 11:00am-10:00pm Sept. 6: 12:30pm-5:00pm Cost: Free Entry & Parking - Food cost varies www.middleeasternfoodfestival.com

Pickleball at Metro Park @Metro Park at Capital One Center Open courts at Capital One Center’s Metro Park offer a fun, active outing for players of all ages and skill levels. Time: 8:00am-9:00pm | Cost: Varies www.capitalonehall.com

Wed., Sept. 2 Service for Healing and Wholeness @Vienna Presbyterian Church, 124 Park Street NE, Vienna A re ective evening service centered on healing, comfort, and community support. Time: 7:00pm | Cost: FREE www.viennapres.org

Fri., Sept. 5 Chillin’ on Church @Vienna Town Green, Church Street & Maple Avenue, Vienna Vienna’s signature block party returns with food trucks, live music, beer and wine, and family-friendly fun along historic Church Street. Time: 6:30pm-9:30pm | Cost: FREE www.viennava.gov/Town-Departments/ Parks-and-Recreation/Concerts-and-Events

Fri., Sept. 11 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony @Historic Vienna / Freeman Store area A community remembrance honoring those lost on September 11. Time: 9:00am | Cost: FREE www.historicviennainc.org

Sat., Sept. 12 Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis @Wolf Trap Filene Center A night of big-band jazz from one of the country’s most celebrated ensembles. Time: 8:00pm | Cost: Ticketed event www.wolftrap.org/shows/venues/ lenecenter

Sat., Sept. 13 Ray LaMontagne @Wolf Trap Filene Center Singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne performs an intimate set showcasing his soulful folk-rock catalog. Time: 8:00pm | Cost: Ticketed event www.wolftrap.org/calendar

Mon., Sept. 15 DivorceCare Support Group (begins) @Vienna Presbyterian Church A supportive weekly group for people navigating separation or divorce, combining teaching with peer support. Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm | Cost: FREE www.viennapres.org

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SEPTEMBER 2026

Sat., Sept. 19 The Avett Brothers @Wolf Trap Filene Center The Avett Brothers bring their signature Americana sound to Wolf Trap for an outdoor evening concert. Time: 7:30pm | Cost: Ticketed event www.wolftrap.org/calendar

Mon., Sept. 21 Rise Against Hunger Service @Vienna Presbyterian Church A hands-on volunteer event where neighbors come together to package meals for global hunger relief. Time: Check with host | Cost: FREE www.viennapres.org

Tue., Sept. 22 Kenny G @Capital One Hall Smooth-jazz icon Kenny G performs at Capital One Hall in Tysons. Time: 7:30pm | Cost: Ticketed event www.capitalonehall.com

Sat., Oct. 3 Vienna Oktoberfest @Historic Church Street and Town Green

Vienna’s annual fall festival features live music, international food, beer and wine gardens, vendors, and a free Kids Zone. Time: 11:00am-7:00pm Cost: FREE www.viennaoktoberfest.org

Thu., Oct. 8 National Gallery Nights: Monster Mash @National Gallery of Art, East Building Come in costume for after-hours gallery activities, spooky artwork, a make-andtake art project, and live music by DC funk-pop band Oh He Dead. Lottery registration is required. Time: 6:00pm-9:00pm Cost: FREE www.nga.gov/calendar/national-gallerynights

Sat., Oct. 10 Snallygaster @Pennsylvania Avenue NW DC’s large-scale craft beer festival returns with unlimited beer, cider, wine, and cocktail tastings, plus a commemorative tasting glass. This is a 21-and-over event. Time: 2:00pm-6:00pm Cost: $75+ www.snallygasterdc.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.

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Sat., Oct. 17 Halloween on the Green @Vienna Town Green A Town of Vienna family event with a spooky craft, animal shows, games, prizes, treats, and pumpkin decorating while supplies last. Time: 10:30am-12:30pm Cost: FREE www.viennava.gov/Events-directory/ Halloween-on-the-Greenviennava

Wed., Oct. 28 Town of Vienna Halloween Parade @Maple Avenue A rain-or-shine community parade with oats, marching groups, music, and costumed families. Time: 7:00pm Cost: FREE www.viennava.gov/Town-Departments/ Parks-and-Recreation/Concerts-andEvents/Halloween-Parade

Fri., Oct. 30 Art Garfunkel: What a Wonderful World Celebration @Capital One Hall, Wolf Trap presents singer Art Garfunkel in a special concert at Capital One Hall. Time: 7:30pm Cost: $146.25 and up www.wolftrap.org/calendar

CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

Fairfax Diapers:

Nurses, ICNA Relief, ACCA, George Mason University Pantry, Fairfax Church Resource Center, Safe Spot, Britepaths, and the Falls Church City Schools pantry at Columbia Church.

A Small but Mighty Neighbor Helping Local Families

The need is greater than many people realize. A shortage of diapers can affect a family’s ability to remain nancially stable. Without an adequate supply, a child may be unable to attend childcare or preschool. Parents may also be forced to miss work when they cannot provide enough diapers for their children.

Submitted by Tania Reyes // Photos provided by Christine Kenny

or families facing dif cult choices, a box of diapers can mean much more than a clean supply for a baby. It can mean having enough money left for groceries, gas, medication, or other household essentials. It can also mean a parent can continue working and a child can attend childcare or preschool. Based in Vienna, Fairfax Diapers is a community-supported organization dedicated to easing diaper insecurity by providing diapers to local families through a network of 11 Fairfax County partner organizations. What began with one simple question has grown into a grassroots effort that has distributed more than 1.8 million diapers to neighbors in need.

Mission and Roots

Fairfax Diapers distributed its rst diaper in June 2019, inspired by founder Christine Kenny’s experience volunteering at Food for Others in Fairfax. While helping distribute food, Christine was frequently asked whether diapers were available. Too often, the answer was no. That experience prompted Christine to research the diaper resources available throughout the county. At the time, only

one location was distributing diapers for a few hours on one Saturday each month, an arrangement that was dif cult for families dealing with transportation challenges, demanding work schedules, or other barriers. Christine saw an opportunity to make diapers available where families were already going for assistance. The director of Food for Others agreed to allow diaper distribution at the food bank once Fairfax Diapers obtained its 501(c)(3) status. Today, Fairfax Diapers operates from Christine’s Vienna home. This unique home-based model keeps overhead expenses low, allowing donated funds to go directly toward purchasing diapers. The organization describes itself simply and proudly as “community-based, small but mighty.”

Programs and Impact Fairfax Diapers provides diapers to families who have demonstrated need and quali ed through its network of partner organizations. Those partners include Food for Others, She Believes in Me, Annandale United Methodist Church Mission, Fairfax County Visiting VIENNA LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2026

While Fairfax Diapers remains a relatively small grassroots organization, its impact is signi cant. The group distributes approximately 30,000 diapers each month. For the families receiving them, those diapers can ease immediate nancial pressure and allow limited household resources to stretch further toward food, transportation, utilities, and other necessities.

As Christine explains, “Getting free diapers means freeing up funds for other things like gas, groceries, etc.” The impact extends beyond the families receiving diapers. Volunteers and donors are essential to making the operation work. Large boxes of diapers must be sorted and repackaged before they are distributed, and two monthly packing sessions take place at Christine’s

Vienna home. A dedicated group of volunteers regularly lends a hand, creating an atmosphere that is both productive and welcoming.

Vienna: The Heart of the Operation Fairfax Diapers’ Vienna headquarters is also Christine’s home, making the organization a remarkably personal family and neighborhood effort. The garage is frequently lled with boxes of diapers, and deliveries from FedEx trucks have become a familiar sight in the culde-sac. Packing days sometimes require a little creative parking, and Christine is quick to acknowledge the patience and understanding of her neighbors. Christine’s husband has embraced the unusual use of their shared space while still nding room for one of his favorite hobbies, building bluebird houses. It is a charming re ection of the practical, grassroots nature of Fairfax Diapers: family, neighbors, volunteers, and community partners coming together to meet a very real local need. Community partnerships have also played an important role in Fairfax Diapers’ growth. Each September, during National Diaper Need Awareness Week,

local organization Social for Good hosts an event supporting Fairfax Diapers. With a large membership, the gathering provides an opportunity to raise awareness, welcome new supporters, and reconnect with returning volunteers. Another longtime partner is the Annandale United Methodist Church Mission, founded by Betsy Clevenger, a dynamic and inspiring community leader. The mission distributes food to more than 350 families each week and provides diapers from Fairfax Diapers once a month. Over the years, Christine has acquired several affectionate nicknames, including “the diaper lady” and “diaper diva.” But perhaps the one that means the most is “diaper angel.” It is a tting name for someone who recognized an overlooked need and decided to do something about it.

How Neighbors Can Help There are many ways for members of the community to support Fairfax Diapers. Individuals can donate unopened packages of diapers in all sizes, as well as opened packages containing unused diapers. Families

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whose babies have grown quickly may have extra diapers at home that can make a meaningful difference to another local family. Businesses, schools, churches, and other community organizations can organize diaper drives to collect much needed supplies while helping raise awareness about diaper insecurity. Volunteers can participate in the organization’s monthly packing sessions, while nancial donations help Fairfax Diapers continue purchasing and distributing diapers throughout the community. To learn more, visit fairfaxdiapers.com, or follow Fairfax Diapers on Facebook and Instagram. After 29 years of calling the area home, Christine says she remains deeply grateful for the generosity and support of the community. Her story is a reminder that meaningful change does not always begin with a large organization or a grand plan. Sometimes, it begins with one person noticing a need and asking a simple question: How can I help? For Fairfax Diapers, that question has resulted in millions of diapers reaching local families and a community coming together, one diaper at a time. s

BUSINESS PROFILE

From Greece to Vienna:

The Story Behind Carnegie Diner and Cafe’s Delicious Success Submitted by Jahleah Santiago Photos provided by Carnegie Hospitality Since opening its doors at 501 Maple Ave W in Vienna, Virginia, in June 2024, Carnegie Diner & Cafe has quickly become a beloved neighborhood destination known for its generous portions, all-day menu and welcoming, lively atmosphere. Owner & Executive Chef Stathis Antonakopoulos brought this Modern American Diner to life with a menu that serves everything from pancake lollipops and triple decker sandwiches, to steaks and seafood, with a full page of plant-based dishes and overthe-top desserts. The Vienna location boasts booth seating throughout the spacious 3,200-square-foot diner offering a comfortable, sleek interior. Carnegie Diner & Cafe’s annual 24-Layer Chocolate Cake Eating Contest has become a must-see event in Vienna annually. A highlight for both regulars

Stathis Antonakopoulos Executive Chef and Owner of Carnegie Diner & Cafe in Vienna and newcomers, this competition is a playful tradition centered around the restaurant’s signature 24-layer chocolate cake, bringing guests together for a spirited and deliciously messy competition that has quickly become one of the diner’s most anticipated recurring celebrations as onlookers watch a select group of ambitious foodies take on the decadent dessert featuring 24 layers of chocolatey indulgence. The thriving Vienna locale is part of Carnegie Diner & Cafe’s continued growth under Stathis Antonakopoulos, whose career in hospitality began at age 18 working at his grandfather’s hotel and restaurant in Greece. Today, Carnegie Diner & Cafe expands beyond Vienna with ve successful locations in New York City and another that was steps from the World Cup action VIENNA LIVING

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in Secaucus, New Jersey. Carnegie Hospitality continues to expand while always focusing on amazing and approachable food, generous hospitality and creating memorable experiences for guests everyday. As Carnegie Diner & Cafe looks ahead to another fall and winter season in Vienna, the team is also excited to bring back its popular pumpkin patch. The seasonal experience has become another community favorite, giving families and guests another reason to gather at the diner and celebrate the season together. For more information, visit www.carnegiediner.com. d

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

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